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Sunday, December 14, 2014

Vol. 1 No. 299

Sanctity of Truth

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New Telegraph’s Top 100 Companies out tomorrow T he much anticipated report by New Telegraph which seeks to identify and celebrate the top 100 companies in Nigeria contributing the most to the stability and

growth of the nation’s economy is to be published tomorrow.

The special report, which is bound to become a collector’s item, will list the companies adjudged

to be the top 100, using a five-point criteria. These are market capitalisation, profitability, brand awareness, attraction of skilled workforce, and corporate social responsibility.

In a statement, the Managing Director / Editor-in-Chief of New Telegraph, Mr. Eric Osagie said these top 100 companies, which are the prime movers

of the economy, are being recognised and celebrated to encourage them to do more, and to inspire others yet to join the big league.

Mr. Osagie added that

the ‘Top 100 Companies in Nigeria’ will be an annual assessment report by the New Telegraph, to encourage and celebrate excellence in Nigerian enterprises.

mass failure: fg moves to save secondary schools

Jonathan vs Buhari

mother of all battles }4

old foes, familiar terrain

Issues that will define 2015 race: lRunning mate lReligion lNorthSouth dichotomy lBlock votes from Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Lagos

GUBER WAR: STATES TO WATCH

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My life as world’s }24 richest Black woman - Folorunsho Alakija

} 17

} 32

}7

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Contents | 14.12.14 BODY & SOUL

Entrepreneur fever ​ he entrepreneurial spirit in T Kola Adewale was great enough to make him quit KPMG after 16 years to set up The Place, an eatery and lounge chain

}18

POLITICS

Theatres of war As the governorship primaries are mired by complaints and allegations of transparency and outright manipulations, the states have become battle grounds

}31

BUSINESS

Robust non-oil sector not austerity Federal Government needs to deepen the oil and non-oil sectors of the economy to save it from the shocks of the turbulence in the prices of crude oil in the international market

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FAITH

Make 2015 peaceful Out of the Garden of Peace, Ibadan, Nigeria have been asked to discountenance the prophesy of disintegration

}51

SPORT

‘Keshi’s technically obtuse’ Super Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi, is technically obtuse-a situation that costs Nigeria a sure ticket to play at the 2015 African Nations Cup, says Godwin Dudu-Orumen

}59

Editorial

‘Reforming Nigeria’s tax system’

M

inister of Finance and supervising minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has disclosed that about 30 per cent of those who are enjoying tax holidays in the country have abused the privilege. The minister, who spoke at a recent stakeholders engagement forum organised by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), also said 75 percent of registered businesses were not captured in the tax system. She therefore urged taxpayers to come forward to help in pushing government’s drive to diversify the economy by promptly paying their taxes, which she said was the essence for the forum.

The capacity enhancement programme was designed to enhance the technical and human resources capabilities of the FIRS towards improving non-oil revenue collection. Okonjo-Iweala said for the past two years, 65 percent of taxpayers have failed to file their reports to the appropriate authorities. The failure, according to her, is responsible for the low tax to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio of12 percent whereas countries like South Africa are achieving more than 20 percent.

It is important to note that, a country seeking to improve its revenue generation would opt for a concept enabling it to best realize its objectives with due regards to its peculiar socio-economic structure. One of these ways is by taxation. A tax can therefore, be defined as a means by which an existing government appropriates part of the private sector’s income. The accumulated revenue is used in meeting recurrent expenditure.

Tax occupies a unique position, because it is an important part of government policies.

The ability of a government to generate revenue from this sector affects services offered by such a government. Hence, taxation is a compulsory payment levied by the government on her citizens to generate revenue and control economic activities and it is backed by law. Taxation plays an important role in influencing the country’s economy; it has also become an important instrument of economic policy.

All is not well with the country’s tax system. So many high profile companies and wealthy people in the society do not pay tax, to the extent that tax evasion has become part of the country’s culture. All over the world, non-payment of tax is a very serious offence. In Nigeria, there does not seem to be the willingness to consistently penalise people or corporate entities for non-payment of tax. This misdemeanor is serious because it is tantamount to economic sabotage. In fact,

from available statistics many foreign companies here in Nigeria, who know the cost of such infraction in their home countries, deliberately avoid paying tax. When they even manage to pay, it is usually underestimated as there are no full disclosures. This is usually done in connivance with the tax officials.

It is also important to state that taxation must be effective, functional and dynamic.

The tax assessment process must be made more attractive, even getting the tax form and filling them can be very cumbersome, which necessitates the hiring of third party or consultants. The process results in corrupt bureaucratic bottlenecks that discourage even those people who genuinely want to pay their tax. Also, the use of Best of Judgment and other negotiation procedures breeds corruption and tax manipulations.

It is instructive to note that people pay tax in Nigeria not because they are willing to pay tax, but rather because they are compelled by law to do so. The reason for this is quite fathomable, as they do not see any positive utilization of the taxes that are paid.

Instead, they keep being short changed. Taxation and tangible development should go hand in hand, without which paying tax will remain a burden on the generality of the people. It is time to have a regime that must have all the attributes of a good tax system including fairness, objectivity, equity, certainty and tangible utilisation of such funds.

The social democratic principles of the government are becoming a mirage because all these tax initiatives are not designed to protect the downtrodden. Instead they further reduce their disposable income. Given the scenario of low incomes and mass unemployment in our society, taxation must be done equitably. Taxation should capture every segment of the society that can pay tax, while leaving out those that cannot and should not pay tax.

Another sore point in tax administration in the country has to do with the oft-repeated complaint by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), of multiple taxation. This is a great disincentive to manufacturing and industrialization. Tax administration must be restructured to be more open and transparent. A system should be in place where every taxable person or institution must be included in the tax regime through proper monitoring, and defaulters should be duly penalised.

Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief n Eric Osagie Deputy Managing Directors n Gabriel Akinadewo

Felix Oguejiofor Abugu

Managing Editor n Suleiman Uba Gaya

Editor, Daily n Yemi Ajayi

Editor, Saturday n Laurence Ani

Editor, Sunday n Emeka Madunagu

Deputy Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah

Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz

Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins

Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Ag. Burea Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi

Asst. Editor, News & Politics n Biyi Adegoroye

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed

Sales/Circulation Manager n Oyebanji Abiodun

Head, Graphics n Timothy Akinleye

Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

Telegraph Adam&Eve

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4

The Sunday Magazine SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014

2015: Mother of all battles Jonathan Vs Buhari

Jonathan

Buhari

The stage is set once again for an interesting but fierce contest for the country’s number one position in the 2015 presidential election, as old political foes, President, Goodluck Jonathan, and former Head of State, Major Gen. Muhammadu Buhari square up against each other. FELIX NWANERI, in this report, examines their strengths, weaknesses and chances

T

he battle line for the 2015 presidency has been drawn between President Goodluck Jonathan and former Head of State, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, following their emergence as the presidential candidates of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), respectively.

While President Jonathan emerged through consensus at the PDP’s national convention at the Eagle Square, Abuja on Thursday December 11, Buhari defeated four other aspirants – former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar; Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso; Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha and the publisher of Leadership Newspapers, Sam

They listed the gains, they listed to include a new era of democracy characterised by tolerance; progress in the communication, power, aviation, road and rail sectors Nda-Isaiah to clinch the APC ticket.

The former military leader polled 3,430 votes at the APC convention held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos

to beat Kwankwaso to the second position. The Kano State governor had 974 votes. Shockingly, Atiku, who many had thought would give Buhari a good run, came a distant third with 954 votes, while Okorocha came fourth with 624 votes.

Nda-Isaiah, a new comer to the race, had 10 votes.

For President Jonathan, it was a no contest as there was no one to contest the PDP ticket with him. So, the PDP convention was merely to coronate him as the party’s presidential candidate. He polled all the 2,812 “yes” votes cast by delegates at the convention.

In his acceptance speech, the president announced Vice-President Namadi Sambo as his running mate. He assured

his supporters and Nigerians that he will not let them down, while reeling out his achievements in the last four years with a promise to serve with more firmness if voted into power in 2015.

Buhari, on his part, said he would evolve a five-point agenda that will engender constitutional governance, improved security, poverty eradication through job creation as well as end ethnic, tribal and religious bigotry.

This is not the first time both men would square up against each other. They met in the 2011 presidential election. The Daura, Katsina State-born General, who contested then on the platform of the deCONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

The Sunday Magazine

2015: Again Jonathan, Buhari draw battle line CONTINUED FR O M PAGE 4

funct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) gave President Jonathan a good run for his money. He polled about 12 million votes against the president’s 22.3 million.

But, unlike the last election when the president had a smooth sail, he is likely to face a Herculean task this time. He had enjoyed massive support from almost the six geo-political zones of the country then, but the political landscape has witnessed several changes, and this is the possibly the first time the various opposition political parties would be closing ranks to battle the PDP, which had been in power since the country’s return to civil rule in 1999.

The APC, which is an amalgam of leading opposition parties – CPC, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) and factions of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), has vowed to stop Jonathan in the February 14, 2015 presidential election.

Ethnic sentiment Besides the opposition’s plot, perhaps, the biggest threat to the president’s second term ambition is that by some political forces in the northern part of the country, where Buhari hails from.

Most leaders in the region have never hidden their frustration over the Jonathan presidency given their believe that he breached the power sharing arrangement of the PDP which would have ensured that power remained in their area even after the death of President Umaru Yar’Adua in 2010.

While efforts by these leaders to upstage Jonathan in the last elections did not materialise due to their failure to galvanise their people, they have continued to work underground to produce a president of Northern extraction come 2015. With the emergence of Buhari, the coast now seems clear for them.

On the other hand, the South-South, whose son (President Jonathan) is the incumbent; believe they should be allowed a second term like the South-West enjoyed through former President Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007.

Power had returned to the North after Obasanjo in line with the PDP power sharing arrangement, but the region’s reign was cut shut in 2010 following the death of Yar’Adua. Jonathan who was vice president then had to complete the tenure, and despite resistance from the North, went ahead to contest the 2011 presidential election, which he won.

It is against this backdrop that his kinsmen, especially those of Ijaw extraction, have persistently maintained that there is no going back to an eight-year presidency for their region. They even at a time threatened that there would be no peace across the country if their son was not re-elected for a second term in 2015.

The intrigues and power play that characterised the election, especially the collapse of an alliance between the CPC and ACN, forced Buhari to declare at the eve of the presidential poll that he will not seek any elective office again

Jonathan’s camp re-strategise Though Buhari’s emergence at the APC convention was not unexpected, many in the president’s camp had prayed for Atiku’s victory because of the belief that it would be an easy ride for the incumbent if he faces the former vice president at the poll.

Against this backdrop, Jonathan’s men are said to have immediately swung into action as intrigues ahead of the 2015 presidential election indicate that it may turn out the fiercest in recent times. To most political analysts and observers, the PDP and APC would be going into forthcoming general election almost on an equal strength.

And given the belief that the president performed below expectation, his men have a tough task in convincing Nigerians on why they should hand their principal another four-year mandate.

Those who hold the view that the president has not done much to earn a second term, accuse him of reneging on his numerous promises, especially to change the living conditions of the masses. This distrust has prompted political analysts to raise the following posers: How did Jonathan get it wrong? Has he squandered the goodwill that saw him win the 2011 presidential election in a landslide?

Optimism despite threat But the misgivings, notwithstanding, the president’s camp believes that the candidate of the opposition is no match to their principal. This optimism was premised on what Jonathan’s campaigners’ described as the “gains of his Transformation Agenda.”

Among the gains, they listed to include a new era of democracy characterised by tolerance; progress in the communication, power, aviation, road and rail sectors.

Interestingly, among the president’s supporters are some prominent political leaders in the North, who insist that the region will lose nothing if Jonathan is reelected for a second term. They also described as misconception, the notion in some political quarters that the agitation for power shift is a Northern agenda.

But how these northern leaders will convince their people to support the president come 2015 is unclear, as they have been labelled selfish by their kinsmen. The questions over this development, are: Where lies Jonathan’s strength? Will his foot soldiers, especially those in the North, deliver at least the seven states, which he won in 2011?

What happens in the south, which used to be his stronghold?

Depleting strongholds While it is incontestable that no single power bloc can determine who emerges president come 2015, there is no doubt that the president’s strongholds are depleting by the day. Also, the minority and humble background sentiments that played out in 2011, are unlikely to make any impact again.

In the South-South, where he hails from, the defection of the Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, is no good news to Jonathan and his party. The oil-rich state will definitely be a battleground in 2015 and the presidential election would be a test of strength between the president and Amaechi. Both men have been locked in a supremacy battle that has polarised the state before now.

Though Jonathan comes from neighbouring Bayelsa, Amaechi has the potential to swing enough votes to the APC despite the belief among stakeholders in the South-South zone that the president’s second term bid should be supported by

all in the region.

The president polled 1.8 million votes (96.9 per cent) against Buhari’s 13, 182 (0.7 per cent) in the state in 2011, but given Amaechi’s popularity and the fact that majority of elected public office holders in the state are on his side, the APC is likely to turn the table in the 2015 polls.

The challenge then is on Nyesom Wike, the immediate past Minister of State for Education and PDP governorship candidate in the state as well as other PDP gladiators to proof their acclaimed control of the political structure of the state in 2015.

Similar scenario is likely to play out in another South-South state of Edo. Like their kit and kin in the oil-rich region, they voted massively for Jonathan in 2011 despite ACN’s control of the state then. But indications that the voting pattern will change in 2015, emerged recent-

was under APC’s control before PDP’s recent takeover through Ayo Fayose, the latter has about 1.6 million voters, and was hitherto controlled by Labour Party (LP), which has emptied into PDP. The state governor, Olusegun Mimiko, is a known supporter of President Jonathan.

The president is also likely to make a strong showing in Lagos, given the state’s cosmopolitan nature. Lagos is an assemblage of the various ethnic groups that make up the country.

Another zone where the president is relying on is the North Central. The zone has about eight million votes. The SouthEast, South-South and North Central zones have about 30 million registered voters. This accounts for 39 per cent of total registered voters.

However, of the six states that make up the North Central, three are sure bet for the president. They are Plateau, Benue and Kogi. The rest three – Niger, Nasarawa and Kwara are doubts.

Scores at battleground states in 2011 poll

Buhari’s new date with history Buhari is not new to the presiStates Buhari Jonathan dential race. His first attempt was in 2003 on the platform of the defunct ANPP, but was defeated by Obasanjo of the PDP. Kano 1.6m 1.1m He was back in 2007, also on the platform of the ANPP, but was defeated by late Yar’Adua, Kaduna 1.3m 400 who hailed from the same state with him.

In March 2010, he left the Katsina 1.16m 420 ANPP to form the CPC. It was under this platform that he contested the 2011 presidenBauchi 1.3m 258 tial election against Jonathan, scoring 11, 914,953 votes against Jonathan’s 22.3 million.

Lagos 435 1.8m The intrigues and power play ly, when Governor Adams Oshiomhole that characterised the election, especially advised the president to look elsewhere the collapse of an alliance between the for votes. Speaking at the sixth anniver- CPC and ACN, forced Buhari to declare sary of his administration last month, at the eve of the presidential poll that he Oshiomhole, who reacted to a recent will not seek any elective office again. declaration by Jonathan that “Edo State “This campaign is the third and last will fall to the PDP” in the next elections, one for me since after it I will not present averred: “In 2015, Edo people will not myself again for election into the office vote on the basis of tribalism but on the of the president,” he said. He however basis of who will provide power.” made a detour last year, when he said: “I The permutation of Oshiomhole’s vice am still in active politics until the polity presidency will also affect the fortunes of is sanitised and people enjoy the fruits of the PDP in Edo State in the presidential democracy at all levels of government.” election.

Popularity as strength Not yet foreclosed The former military ruler is banking on With the North almost out of the presi- his popularity, particularly in the North, dent’s grip, his best bet now is the South- where he enjoys a kind of cult-followerSouth, South-East and North Central ship. This, perhaps, explains the support geo-political zones. The three zones have his ambition got from APC governors 27.7 million registered voters. This ac- even when two of them contested the counts for 39 per cent of total registered party’s presidential primaries. voters in the 2011 elections.

Buhari’s electoral strength as demHe is also expected to make strong onstrated in the previous elections, esshowing in the South-West. He won in pecially in 2011 in which he garnered all the states of the zone in the last elec- about 12 million votes, convinced the tions except in Osun (South-West), but governors of his ability to beat President the political equation has changed.

Jonathan.

So, give or take, the president can still The CPC, on whose platform he conspring surprise despite the optimism in tested the poll, it would be recalled, was the opposition camp. His biggest strong- formed less than six months to the elechold still remain the South-South states tion and his campaign never extended of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, beyond the North. He also lacked finanDelta and Bayelsa, while in Rivers; he cial strength, which plays a great role has a 50/50 chance. The zone has over in determining electoral victories in the nine million votes. country.

In the 2011 election, Buhari won in 12 The South-East states are also in his grip, particularly Anambra, Abia, Enugu out of the 19 northern states of Bauchi, and Ebonyi, while Imo is up for grab, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, but it is likely that the people of the state Kebbi, Niger, Borno, Sokoto, Yobe and opt for the PDP in the presidential poll. Zamfara. Jonathan won in the rest seven The zone has about eight million votes. states of Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, Benue, He is also sure of two states in the Nasarawa, Taraba and Adamawa.

South-West – Ekiti and Ondo. While the former has 732,166 registered voters and CONTINUED ON PAGE P B

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SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

News

Buhari condemns Kano, Jos bomb attacks Chijioke Iremeka

P

residential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, MajGen. Mohammadu Buhari, yesterday condemned the recent bomb blasts in Kano and Jos. Buhari said in a statement he personally signed and issued in Abuja that Nigerians would overcome the perpetrators of these heinous acts.

“I condemn, unreservedly and with every strength in me, the recent terrorist attacks in Kano and Jos, the two historic cities that are

known for their rich cultural and religious heritage.

“Once again, those who seek to influence our way of life, modify our faith and our most sacred core values, have struck, leaving in their wake lives brutally cut short, limbs badly broken and dreams forced to fade away.

“But these people, whose actions are not sanctioned by any religion and who subscribe to no known decent values, will not succeed. Our people are resilient and strong, and our nation is capable, based on our rich human and materi-

al resources, of successfully tackling these nihilists.

“We will together see the end of them and their reign of terror. They have failed because Nigeria will remain strong and united in the face of what has now become an almost daily infliction of terror on a defenceless people. Women, children and the aged are not spared by these barbaric purveyors of horror, intimidation and panic. No religion condones

the killings of such vulnerable and innocent people, hence we are sure these terrorists profess to none of the world’s great religions, much as they seek to mask their actions with the cloak of religion.”

Describing the ideals of the perpetrators as ‘primordial,’ Buhari said their cuase would not succeed as it is not just.

“In spite of their terror, our respective faith and how we

practice them will flourish and expand. Our reputation as a people of deep faith and peaceful religious coexistence will shine through, it will not diminish, it will not be forfeited.

“I commiserate with the victims and their family members. While praying that Allah will grant repose to the souls of the departed and comfort those who lost loved ones, I urge all of us to demonstrate our time-tested

compassion by providing support and succour to those affected one way or other other in their hour of need.

“To my long-suffering fellow citizens who have borne the brunt of these almost daily senseless attacks, I say help is on the way. Terror must and will be defeated. All it requires is the political will, uncommon courage and unrelenting determination, and victory will be ours.”

APC remains one family - Nkire A

member of the Board of Trustees of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Sam Nkire, has said there was no victor and no vanquished in the party’s just concluded Presidential Primary Election.

Nkire, who a prominent figure in the Kwankwaso Presidential Campaign Team, said the party would remain united in pursuing a common goal. According to him, the primaries gave the presidential aspirants the opportunity to campaign

for the APC as a party and expose the incompetence of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party.

Nkire said he was confident that APC presidential candidate, Gen. Mohammadu Buhari, would prove soothsayers wrong by running an all-inclusive campaign. He said the success of the APC in the presidential election would largely depend on how General Buhari manages his success at the just concluded presidential primaries.

L-R: Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi; Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Shema and Vice President Namadi Sambo during the wedding of the daughter of Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, in Bauchi yesterday

Jonathan vs Buhari: Mother of all battles CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

APC’s calculation The calculation of APC chieftains backing Buhari is that his candidature will guarantee substantial votes for the party in the NorthWest and North-East as well as South-West, where former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu holds sway. The three zones have a total 44.8 million registered voters, and which accounted for 61 per cent of total registered voters of 73.5 in the 2011 election.

The South-West is particularly interesting because it is believed that the zone holds the ace on who emerges president in 2015, as it has about 14 million registered voters.

The zone, it would be recalled played a great role in the emergence of President Jonathan in 2011, as a result of a last minute “trading” that saw leaders of the then ACN “abandoning” their presidential candidate (Ribadu) as well as pulling out of an alliance with Buhari’s CPC. The North-West is Buhari’s stronghold and is

expected to replicate the support it gave him 2011 despite the fact that VicePresident Sambo, who is running alongside Jonathan for the second time is from the zone.

The zone has seven states – Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa and Sokoto. It is also the largest voting bloc in the country with over 19 million votes. Of the seven north-western states, Kano is Buhari’s biggest political base. The state has over four million voters. The former Head of State had continued to win the states since 2003.

In 2011, the former military ruler polled 1.6 million (59.1 per cent) votes against Jonathan’s 440, 666 (16.01 per cent) while the then incumbent governor of the state, Ibrahim Shekarau, who contested the presidential election on ANPP platform, polled 526, 310 (19.7 per cent) votes. The margin is expected to widen in 2015 with the incumbent governor, Kwankwaso behind Buhari.

In Sokoto State, Governor Aliyu Wamakko is believed

to have the capability to sway votes in his state to the APC, though Buhari defeated Jonathan in the state by 540,769 to 309,057 votes in the last election.

And while Governor Sule Lamido (Jigawa) has declared support for Jonathan, it is doubtful if he has the capacity to sway votes for the president. In 2011, Buhari defeated Jonathan in Jigawa with 663,994 votes against 419,252.

Like the North-East with about 11 million votes, the likes of Atiku are expected to mobilise Adamawa, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba states for Buhari. A snag here is the Boko Haram insurgency ravaging the zone.

Though assurances have been made by relevant authorities that elections will hold in the zone, there is no doubt that its votes would be depleted.

He is also banking on Governors Amaechi, Oshiomhole (South-South) and Okorocha (South-East) to make strong showing in Rivers, Edo and Imo states, which were hitherto PDP strongholds.

While many say the South-East and SouthSouth would be difficult for Buhari to penetrate, given the affinity between the people of the zone and President Jonathan, he will surely make strong showing in the North Central despite the presence of PDP big wigs like Senate President David Mark, Governors Gabriel Suswam and Babangida Aliyu.

In Niger State, for instance, Buhari polled 652,574 votes to defeat Jonathan who secured 321, 429 votes in 2011, even with Aliyu backing the president.

Kwara is also sure to go to Buhari this time as the Olusola Saraki dynasty, now led by his son and former governor of the state, Bukola, and which has for long decided the political equation in the state has pitched tent with the APC. In 2011, Jonathan secured 268, 243 (60.93 per cent) of the 435, 359 total votes cast in the state while Buhari’s CPC polled 83, 603 and ACN’s Nuhu Ribdu 52,432.

Not yet Uhuru No doubt, Buhari’s pop-

ularity, particularly in the North, will boost APC’s chances in the presidential election; however it would be too early to draw a conclusion on what becomes of his ambition, as politics remains the doctrine of the possible.

A political school of thought is of the view that he may not get the envisaged support in the North because presidential ambition has unsettled some elements in the region, who have been waiting to step into his shoes.

To members of this political school, the former head of state’s renouncement of his decision to stay off active politics, last year, places some moral burden on him. They also argued that his ambition will blur the vision of some northerners who will not see beyond him. The issues of age and his religious leaning were equally raised. The former head of state would be 73 next year.

The deciders As events keep unfolding with the two candidates and their respective parties ex-

pected to reach out to Nigerians in the days ahead with their programmes and manifestos, their choice of running mates will play a big role in who carries the day.

Within the camp of the APC, it is being speculated that either Amaechi or Oshiomhole will emerge as Buhari’s running mate. The party’s strategists are hoping to use either of the two to further deplete the president’s South-South base. The South-West is also hoping to produce the vice presidential slot, given its stake in the opposition party.

For President Jonathan, power of incumbency which cannot be dismissed in the country’s politics, will surely come to play.

He also has a huge financial war chest to fund his ambition. This will be a major boost, especially with the creeping of the concept of “stomach infrastructure” into Nigeria’s polity.

However, the over 70 million electorate remain the ultimate deciders of who steers the ship of Africa’s most populous nation for the next four years come February 14, 2015.

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NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER 2014

News

Borno gov donates N10m to fallen journalists’ fund

B

orno State Governor, Kashim Shettima, yesterday called on media stakeholders to create a Fallen Editors’ Endowment Fund, to cater for families of dead journalists.

Speaking during an interactive session with media executives in Lagos, the governor said such a fund would ensure that the families of dead journalists don’t suffer.

He announced the donation of N10 million towards the setting up of the fund.

The governor narrated how he had to take care of the upbringing of the children of a dead journalist, who were thrown out of school as a result of their father’s demise.

He also paid tribute to some other dead journalists such as the former ViceChairman of Sun Newspapers Limited, Mr. Dimgba Igwe, and the former Managing Editor (North), New Telegraph Newspapers, Suleiman Bisalla.

He acknowledged that journalists were living in difficult times like other ordinary Nigerians but called for welfare packages

to cushion their challenges.

The governor said it amounted to a ‘gratutious insult’ for anyone to associate Boko Haram with Islam.

Describing the insurgents as a ‘gang of lunatics,’ he said it was unfortunate that Nigerians had allowed the matter to degenerate to the current level.

He lamented that a former Chief of Defence Staff, Vice Admiral Ola Ibrahim, once described the Boko Haram insurgency as ‘a Kanuri agenda.’

He also lamented that the insurgency was misconstrued as an agenda against President Goodluck Jonathan, noting that the problem had existed as far back as 2002.

He said Borno had been a ‘melting pot of ideas’ and a centre of civilisation, adding that the insurgency would be wiped out once jobs are created.

He said a military solution was not the only way to resolve the Boko Haram challenge, saying it was even a major problem trying to negotiate with the group.

He said the group had been infiltrated by criminal ele-

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Obasanjo praises Gani, slams Soyinka, Chukwumerije

ormer President Olusegun Obasanjo has showered praises on late Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), describing him as one of the most genuine critics in the history of Nigeria.

Obasanjo, however, slammed Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, and former Secretary for Information under Gen. Sani Abacha, Senator Uche Chukwumerije, describing them as self-serving activists.

Writing in his new autobiography, My Watch, the former president said Gani “was to me a fearless, genuine politico-social critic, who drew no distinction between friends and associates or on

ethnicity, geography or religion. He believed in what he did and did what he believed.”

Obasanjo also commended Gani for always speaking up when everyone else was silent, especially on matters of injustice.

He alleged that his ex-wife, Remi, sought Gani’s services in order to scandalise him as a senior military officer and a minister in government, but that he (Obasanjo) hired an equally strong lawyer, Chief Kehinde Sofola (SAN).

“But that issue did not diminish my respect for Gani,”

ments, who were previously into highwat robbery and other forms of criminality.

He also said the sect comprised moderate and nihilist elements, noting that the former were more easier to negotiate with than the latter, who are opposed to the existence of Nigeria.

“Boko Haram has claimed

more territory in North-East Nigeria than ISIS in Syria,” he said, wondering why the international media had not given prominence to the situation in the area.

He said the insurgency had made 20 local government areas unreachable and had also made many highways inaccessible.

He saluted the Nigerian

media for reporting the situation in the area, noting that the number of displaced persons in Maiduguri had risen to three million.

He pledged that in spite of the insurgency, his administration would continue to discharge its social obligations to the people of the state.

He lamented that Northern politicians had shown

scant regard for public education, noting that it was not surprising that it was battling a problem as serious as the insurgency.

He said his administration had paid much attention to the development of education in the state.

“Without education, we can’t make much headway,” he said.

Emir of Mubi, Alhaji Abubakar Isa (left) on arrival at his Palace in Mubi … on Friday

he said.

Speaking further, he described Fawehinmi as an advocate for the poor and the oppressed. He said the vacuum created by the late legal luminary was yet to be filled in Nigeria.

Obasanjo described Soyinka as “a self-serving critic” who always loved to take the lead on all matters.

“For Wole, no one can be good, nor can anything be spot-on politically except that which emanates from him or is ordained by him.

His friends and loved ones will always be right and cor-

rect no matter what they do or fail to do,” he declared.

Saying it was good that Soyinka did not go into politics, Obasanjo added, “He is surely a better wine connoisseur and a more successful ‘aparo’ (guinea fowl) hunter than a political critic, not to talk of what he would do as a politician. I take him seriously on almost all issues except on the political, particularly Nigerian politics.”

He, however, noted that the Nobel laureate appeared to have ‘mellowed’ down since turning 80 recently.

As he prayed that Soyinka

celebrates the centenary of his birth on earth, he also stated, “If I go before him, I will bid him welcome when he arrives at the great beyond. I hope he would do the same if he succeeds in getting there before me and we find ourselves on the same side of the divide.”

On Chukwumerije, he said the senator as a younger person used to be sincere, fearless and uncompromising.

He observed that as Chukwumerije grew older and the reality of life dawned on him with the weight of family responsibility “his pen,

if not his mouth, gradually blunted and the fire in him started to dim.”

Obasanjo also said it then became easy to sway the once fiery, obstinate critic and he became a tool of whoever needed to use him.

“Wittingly or unwittingly, he began to do the bidding of the lurer,” he said. “In the process, the intrepidity waned and the fearlessness disappeared. He became called and coiled.”

He added that by joining politics, Chukwumerije sacrificed not only the “fire” in him, but also the “brand,” adding that the real Uche Chukwumerije that was known in the past was gone.

Mass failure: FG moves to save secondary schools Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

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he Federal Government yesterday expressed deep concern over poor results recorded in the recent Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination conducted by the West African Examinations Council across the country.

Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, who expressed the federal government’s worry at the 22nd convocation and award giving ceremony which coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi,

Edo State, said government had taken positive steps to remedy the ugly situation by strengthening the ministry’s inspectorate division.

He said the measure would enable the ministry to monitor the quality of teaching and facilities available in the nation’s secondary schools.

In addition, he stated that the Federal Government was “working out modalities for regular training and retraining of teachers through various short term courses, workshops and seminars.”

He also harped on the imperative of peace and tranquility in all the educational institutions, saying the step

is “important and cannot be overemphasised.”

He therefore implored the staff and students to appreciate the fact that learning can only take place in a peaceful and conducive atmosphere.

The minister further cautioned students and staff unions of various schools against steps that could hamper the smooth running of the polytechnic academic calendar.

He commended the current management of the polytechnic, saying, “I am aware and pleased that Auchi Polytechnic has a well developed entrepreneurial curriculum and has commis-

sioned an entrepreneurial village for skills acquisition, with the sole purpose of producing job creators and not job seekers. Government is very particular about the development of vocational and technology education and believes that strengthening this will reduce the high rate of unemployment of youths, and ensure wealth creation.

In his speech, Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, urged the graduands who included 3, 748 Higher National Diploma holders and 4, 987 National Diploma holders to explore the possibility of being self-sustaining. He also urged them to

deploy their intellectual capacity to develop themselves while out of school.

He said, “In a knowledge driven economy, only those who have the brain will survive. They must resist the temptation of giving up but strive to confront the challenge of making individual contributions so that the country can survive. A country cannot rise beyond the quality of its leadership.”

He commended the quality and industry demonstrated by the management led by Dr. (Mrs) Philipa Idogho for the visible transformation across the institution.

Also, Ijaw National Leader,

Chief Edwin Clark, urged the Federal Government to upgrade all polytechnics in the country to the status of federal universities.

He also lauded the rector for the achievements and vision that has helped to reposition the institution as the envy of all in Nigeria and Africa.

Earlier, Idogho listed funding as the major constraint in efforts at developing the institution.

Idogho stated that the polytechnic now offers a total of 63 programmes leading to the award of national diploma, higher national diploma and professional diploma in urban and regional planning.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

News

Prepare to return to Otuoke, Kwankwaso tells Jonathan K Muhammad Kabir Kano

ano State governor Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has said that with the emergence of General Mohamadu Buhari as the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, President

Goodluck Jonathan should start to prepare his handing over notes and dust his desk in order to leave office.

Kwankwaso, who hailed the candidacy of Buhari said that the former Head of State will use his military background to ensure that the security challenges facing this country is overcome. He said

that Buhari is the best person to handle this country at this crucial time.

“Buhari is a full fledged politician. He has worked like any other politician in this country and he earned the ticket by his commitment. He is a polished and experienced politician. We must rally round and sup-

port him to ensure his victory,” he said.

Stating that he is fully on the ground to continue with his developmental programmes in the state, Kwankwaso said: “I will make sure that PDP lose in Kano and I will deliver one hundred per cent victory to the APC because it is the

party that everyone is supporting across the country” Kwankwaso, who described President Jonathan’s move to retain power as a third term agenda which he said is unconstitutional, added that the nation waits to see how Jonathan will violate constitutional provisions to have a third term in office having been sworn in twice in the past few years.

The governor told reporters in Kano that, apart from the factor of ineligibility of the President as provided in the constitution, “the imperial tendencies of his coming out alone without any serious internal party politics of allowing others who are interested to have their ways, stand negatively against him and Nigerians would show him that they are wiser than him in this regard”.

Kwankwaso who had just

lost out of the APC presidential primaries, added that he might consider series of calls for him to go for the Kano Central senatorial seat after huge consultations.

Kwankwaso said: “I will consult with my people, friends and political associate on my future politically and you should know that my being in the Senate will help in no small measure in tackling those talkative who have nothing to offer for the uniting of the country”.

He said Nigeria needs a President with commitment and honesty, “we need someone who will clearly show that he is in control as the President and Commander-in-Chief; somebody as a President who will value every tribe and ethnicity and work for the good of the nation.”

Akwa Ibom 9,999 Carol Night holds Dec 20 Tony Anichebe Uyo

L-R: Chairman, Academy for Entrepreneurial Studies, [AES] Excellence Club, Dr, Nike Akande, recipient of Minister of the Year Award/ Minister of Works, Michael Onolememen and President, AES Excellence Club governing board, Dr. Ausbeth Ajagu, at the 5th Annual CEO’s dinner/award Nite, entitled’ Developing domestic capabilities for global competitiveness, in Lagos. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

LP justifies Alao-Akala’s candidacy Wale Elegbede

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he Labour Party (LP) has defended its decision to give former governor of Oyo State, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala its gubernatorial ticket for the 2015 election, saying that the move is nothing strange as it will give the party an edge in the state.

In a statement by issued by the National Secretary of the party, Barrister Kayode Ajulo, the party said it was not surprising that politicians leaving other parties are coming to Labour Party, adding that the party is one of the few parties founded on principles and a clear-cut ideology.

“It is just a matter of water eventually finding its level. The issues must be put in correct perspective.

It is not enough to limit ourselves to mere tooth picking analysis or fixated social media opinion.

“When we take the case of Akala, for instance, it will be recalled that during his tenure as Governor of Oyo State, he carried along the workers in the various unions, includ-

ing the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Teachers, Market Women, Civil Societies, etc. While other governors in states controlled by supposedly progressive and pro-people party placed embargo on employment and were not ready to implement minimum wage, Akala employed more workers and did not denigrate the position of the working class.

“Equally important is the fact that Akala did not just get the Labour ticket in Oyo State on a platter of gold or for the asking. It was not also a matter giving the ticket to the highest bidder. Akala worked his way rigorously and painstakingly up the ladder. He was endorsed by all those who matter in the party after a thorough check on his renewed commitment to the cause of the common man. He indeed had the support of other aspirants who acknowledged his worth and surrendered everything to him.

“Akala is a grassroots politician, was a civil servant, and then became Chairman of a Local gov-

ernment, Deputy Governor and Governor, he has seen it all and he can with politicians of sound pedigree.

“In fact the leadership of the party is currently inundated with requests by politicians from the socalled large parties, who have either been betrayed or shortchanged and are seeking credible platform on which to blossom and achieve their objective of

truly transforming the polity. Some of our leaders have left their usual abode in order to avoid the deluge of politicians. They are coming in slews, seeking succour from injustice, seeking refuge from backstabbing, and seeking hope in a political future free from money mongering and selfish greed. This is an acknowledgement that the Labour Party is the last hope of the people.”

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ll is set for the 2014 edition of the annual Akwa Ibom State Government Carol Night, slated to hold on Saturday, December 20, at the new Ibom International Stadium in Uyo. In a statement announcing the programme, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, stated that “the 9,999 Carol Night, apart from been a recordbreaking gathering of Carol Singers, has become a major source of spiritual tourism that attracts pilgrims from around the world.”

He said the event “gives the Christian community and general public a compelling need to be in the city of Uyo to celebrate Christmas and honour the birth of Jesus Christ.”

He explained that the event, which is the creation of Governor Godswill Akpabio’s administration, and is coordinated by the Akwa Ibom State Directorate of Protocols, was inspired by the governor’s desire to gather people from every church, hamlet and village from across the state to share in the joy of Christmas by singing praises to the Almighty God. According to him, since its inception in 2008, “the Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carol Night has enjoyed the benevolence, involvement, support and passion of Governor Akpabio, and has also served as avenue for the promotion of spiritual growth, peaceful coexistence among ethnic, religious and cultural groups in the State, in an evening of praise, worship, love and unity.”

Rotary Club empowers unemployed youths Chijioke Iremeka

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he Rotary Club of Ikoyi Metropolitan, (District 9110 Nigeria), has taken its entrepreneurial and vocational training to unemployed female youths on Lagos Island as a way of making them self dependent.

The women, who were trained in production of household and industrial detergents as well as pastries, received materials to further their vocation at home before they would be given the certificate of participation.

According to the President

of the Club, Omo Egoegonwa, there are many youths, including graduates, seeking employment to no avail in the area, a development that moved the club to commence the training to ensure that the youths in Obalende area are no longer job seekers but entrepreneurs and employers of labour.

She said, “This vocational training is one of the club’s annual projects, aimed at empowering the less privileged in the society. This year, we are having training them on production of household and detergents.

We are also making dona-

tions to schools and these are parts of things we do to help reduce the effects of poverty in the society.

Speaking on the participants, she said, “We did community calls on those residing in Obalande and its environ, where we invited unemployed youths, who want to acquire one form of training or the other, but have no means of such vocational training.

“We chose people from Ikoyi and Obalende axis because they are our catchment areas. Next time, we will throw it open to other persons, who would be in-

terested in one form of training or the other. We have arranged some materials for them, which they would use at home to perfect the act.”

She noted that the certificate of participation would be given to them within two weeks, after they have presented what they were able to do with the materials that were given to them on the day of the training.

On the take off capital, she said, “there is no seed capital for them, except for the materials that we have given to them, which would enable them to make, at least, five to 10 liters of liquid soap.

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NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

News

Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

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wo persons were on Saturday evening feared dead in the Agbokojo, Amunigun and Agbaje areas of Ibadan, Ibadan North-West Local Government area of the Oyo State capital, during a bloody clash which involved some rival youth camps.

More than 20 shops were vandalised with goods looted at the Agbaje Market when some hoodlums numbering about 80 stormed the venue with dangerous weapons.

A landlord in Agbaje area who did not want to

Two feared dead in Ibadan youth clash be named, said: “Violence has become common in Agbaje area whenever election is fast approaching and these hoodlums are known by all, but they seem to be above the law.

“Some of the hoodlums stormed this place, wearing masks, numbering

TAN lauds PDP for Jonathan’s emergence

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ormer Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and the State Coordinator of the State chapter of the Transformation Ambassador of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Werinipre Seibarugu, has commended the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party on the emergence of President Goodluck Jonathan as the first incumbent to have been returned unopposed as Presidential candidate of the party.

According to TAN, the decision of the various organs of the PDP including the National Working Committee (NWC), the Board of Trustee (BoT), the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the PDP Governors Forum, to adopt President Jonathan as consensus candidate is commendable

and historic.

Seibarugu, in a statement issued in Yenagoa and signed by the State Director of Media and Publicity, Chief Nathan Egba, said the sustained sensitization and mobilization of over 17million signatures by the national leadership of TAN across the six geo-political zones is commendable and historic.

Said TAN: “We commend the various party machinery of the PDP for championing the emergence of President Jonathan as a consensus candidate. We commend the National leadership of the TAN for their sentisisation and mobilisation of the over 17 million signatures, which obviously contributed in ensuring the President to seek re-election.”

NCAT set to procure more training aircraft -Chidoka

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Wole Shadare

viation Minister, Chief Osita Chidoka, has said that the country’s aviation training institution, the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology will soon acquire new fleet of training aircraft.

Speaking at the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the college, he said “Government is at verge of awarding contract to refleet the training aircraft.”

Chidoka said the purchase of B737 simulator for the college was a testimony of President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation programme in the aviation sector.

He said the country will rely on NCAT ability for the training of the needed manpower for the country’s aviation sector.

The minister said the zero tolerance for accident in the sector would be achieved through the

training and re-training of aviation personnel in the industry.

“Under the watch of Mr. President we are not only restoring the days of glory of NCAT but changing the frontier to becoming the leading training college in Africa” He said the next fifty years of the college would be glorious and that it has just started today with the celebrations.

In his speech, the Rector of NCAT Capt. Samuel Caulcrick, while narrating the history of the college said it has impacted greatly on the landscape of aviation development in the country and the sub region.

Caulcrick remarked that NCAT graduates to have always held their own in air safety and high level competence worldwide.

He said the college was offering the aviation industry a significant change that can be proud of and a leadership that can be trusted.

about 80 from their base in Foko. Fully armed, they stormed Agbaje streets.

They ransacked and looted shops and also vandalised the shops.

“If the police can establish their presence here like they did in Idi-Arere and Popoyemoja, I believe peace will be restored”, he said.

Another resident, who simply identified himself as Demola, told Sunday New Telegraph that a politician had organised

a political rally in the area some weeks ago, and that some youths from Foko, who were believed to have sympathy for another political party also attended the rally. As gathered, the politician’s supporters attacked the youths that came to their rally and they sustained varying degrees of injury during the melee.

“With what happened over night, I believe this is a retaliation. Two boys were killed, while some

were also injured and they have been taken to an undisclosed hospital by the police”.

In a telephone chat with the Caretaker Chairman of the local government, Mr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, who visited the scene of the incident yesterday, he sympathised with the bereaved families and those who lost their property and wares to the hoodlums.

He alleged that the youths that fomented

the trouble were used by opposition, while enjoining the police to leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to book.

“The crisis was politically motivated. If not, why didn’t they do that three or two years ago? Why are they doing it two months to the elections?” he said, while urging members of the community to constitute a community policing to complement the efforts of conventional police.

Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang, sympathising with one of the victims of bomb explosion during his visit to Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos …yesterday

FG distributes fingerlings, feeds to Benue farmers Cephas Iorhemen Makurdi

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n line with the policy of consolidating gains in the agricultural sector, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has distributed 500 juvenile fishes along with 15kg fish feed subsidised at 50 per cent of the cost price to registered farmers in Benue State under the Growth Enhancement Support Scheme.

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who flagged off the distribution in Makurdi, the state capital, noted that due to the effect

of the 2012 flood disaster which washed away scarce protein source for Benue farmers there was need for government intervention.

Represented at the occasion by the state director of Agriculture, Dr. Godwin Obute Garba, the minister explained that the Federal Government has a compensation programme for fish farmers who lost their stock and farm equipment as a result of the devastating flood, adding that plans are under way to train and offer expert services to the farmers on the best management practices that will enhance increased productivity.

Garba added that one of the fundamental idea in the agriculture transformation agenda for fish farmers in Nigeria is for them to take fish farming as a business. He urgedfish farmers to note that the country is shifting from subsistence farming to agriculture as a business. Under the scheme, the farmers were afforded 15kg fish feed at N12, 500.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture in the state, Mr. Donald Amokaha Gbugho, called on individuals and corporate organisations to be part of the promoting agriculture in the state so as to sustain its food basket status even as he said

fishery provides income for the farmers as well as state and local government councils.

While commending the president Goodluck Jonathan administration for his initiatives in the sector, Gbugho advised beneficiaries to make the best use of the facility and not to put it on sale.

Two Makurdi-based fish farmers, Mr. Peter Penda and Christopher Bier commended the federal government for the laudable gesture as given juveniles fish and feeds at a subsidised rate would not only spur them to embrace the scheme but will assist them with sustenance for their families.

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

OPINION

Buhari or Jonathan: A Time To Decide Femi Fani-Kayode

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ajor General Muhammadu Buhari has emerged as the APC flagbearer for the 2015 Presidential election and President Goodluck Jonathan has emerged for the PDP. Now the battle for the soul and future of our nation begins. God’s counsel alone shall stand over Nigeria. I stand with Jonathan and I say ‘’lets dance’’, ‘’lets get it on’’ and ‘’may the best man win’’. Yet whilst doing so we ought to consider the words of Miss Dora Ade Bentley. On December 11th on her Facebook wall she wrote the following: ‘’Jihadi groups killed more than 5,000 people last month, with Iraq topping the league table of deaths, followed by Nigeria, Afghanistan and Syria. In 664 incidents recorded in November by the BBC World Service and researched jointly with King’s College London, the overall death toll was 5,042, or an average of 168 deaths per day and nearly twice the number of people who were killed in the 11 September 2001 attacks on America. After Iraq, Nigeria, Afghanistan and Syria, Yemen was fifth in the deadly league table, tying with Somalia, with 37 incidents each.”

All this and some people still say they want Buhari as President? A man who said, only last year, that ‘’an attack on Boko Haram is an attack on the north’’. A man who said, in 2001, that he wants to ‘’spread sharia throughout the federation’’. A man who said, in 2001, that ‘’Muslims should only vote for Muslims.’. A man who said, in 2001, that ‘’why should Christians be concerned when Muslims cut off their limbs under sharia’’ and that ‘’after all the limbs that are being cut off are Muslim ones and not Christian so why should the Christians bother about it?’’

This is the man that some Nigerians are clamouring for to be their President? May God open their eyes and protect them from themselves. May He grant them wisdom and discernment.

Yet since some are partial to Buhari let us subject him to a little scrutiny right here and now.

Let us put a few questions to him. Let us judge him by what he says and does.

On 22nd July 2014 he told The Nation Newspaper that “our country has gone through several rough patches, but never before have I seen a Nigerian President declare war on his own country as we are seeing now. Never before have I seen a Nigerian President deploy federal institutions in the service of partisanship as we are witnessing now. Never before have I seen a Nigerian President utilize the common wealth

to subvert the system and punish the opposition, all in the name of politics. Our nation has suffered serious consequences in the past for egregious acts that are not even close to what we are seeing now. It is time to pull the brakes’’.

One may have been prepared to accept the general’s words as being those of a genuinely concerned and committed patriot who simply wanted our President and his Government to do a better job and who was worried about the unfolding situation in our country if he had not consistently exposed his true colours and his obvious soft spot for Boko Haram.

Permit me to share just one example of the expression of that soft spot in this contribution.

On 3rd June 2013, Thisday Newspaper led their newspaper with the following headline: ‘’The military offensive against Boko Haram is antinorth- General Muhammadu Buhari’’.

The headline was followed by these words: ‘’Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has criticised the declaration of state of emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States and the subsequent military offensive against the Boko Haram Islamic sect. Buhari, who featured on the “Guest of the Week,” a Hausa programme of the Kaduna-based Liberty Radio, yesterday said the federal government’s action was a gross injustice against the north. According to him, unlike the special treatment the federal government gave to the Niger Delta militants, the Boko Haram members were being killed and their houses demolished. He said he was not in support of the declaration of state of emergency in the three north-eastern states because President Goodluck Jonathan had failed from the outset in addressing the security situation in the country’’.

The implications of these comments, coming from a former Head of State, are obvious and self-evident. If the truth be told, Buhari’s peculiar affinity with the terrorists and his fawning about their safety and welfare is as unbearable as it is nauseating.

Yet that same General Buhari who said these things one year ago is now busy pontificating about his concerns for our nation. Many would argue that that is pretty rich coming from him given his past comments about a ruthless group of terrorists who, more than any other, merit the award for the greatest ‘’troublers of our nation’’.

Given this, I regard Buhari’s comments to the Nation Newspaper on the 22 July 2014 as nothing but self-serving.

Of particular interest to me were the following words: ‘’never before have I seen a Nigerian President declare war on his own country as we are seeing now’’. Really? Correct me if I am wrong but I thought that the war that President Goodluck Jonathan had declared was against terrorism and Boko Haram and not against the

Nigerian people.

Does Buhari find it difficult to make a distinction between the jihadists and the Nigerian people? Does he see them as being one and the same? Does he actually equate members of Jama’at ahl as-sunnah li-d-da’wa wa-l-jihad with the Nigerian people? Does he regard the military offensive against Boko Haram as being an offensive against OUR people? Does he honestly believe that anytime that a Boko Haram terrorist is killed by our Armed Forces and security agencies or that his house is blown up, that it is an attack on the Nigerian people or an assault on the north? Are those people that insurgents are slaughtering, terrorising, abducting, pillaging, robbing and raping on a daily basis all over our country not the real Nigerians?

Does he honestly believe that Boko Haram is representative of the thinking of our people or even the majority of the people in the muslim north? Is such a man really fit to be President of our country?

Is he still insisting on having another muslim as his running mate in order to establish his strange dream of a muslim/muslim President and Vice President for our country or has he shelved that idea due to public resentment and outrage?

Does he have any respect for christians? Does he have any empathy with the christian community in northern Nigeria for the immense suffering, degradation, humiliation,contempt, shame, indignity, persecution and mass murder that they have been subjected to in the north for the last 53 years and particularly in the last few years?

Does he regard christians as being human beings? Does he accept the fact that Boko Haram are nothing but beasts? Does he recognise the fact that no-one has the right to take the life of another human being in the name of religion?

Does he know that compulsion has no place in any civilised religion and that each human being has the right to exercise his or her free will to determine which religious faith he or she wishes to espouse? Does Buhari understand the meaning of the words ‘’secular state’’ or the concept of the secularity of the state? Can he possibly accept the virtues and comprehend the wisdom of such an equitable and reasonable constitutional arrangement which guarantees the rights of all faiths and which does not allow one faith to lord it over another anywhere in our country?

Does he recognise the fact that Nigeria is in actual fact a secular state ,in which the rights and dignity of the members of every faith, including the christian faith, are guaranteed by the constitution? Does he accept the fact that in this day and age it is a heinous crime against humanity and particularly the girl-child and that it is a complete violation of the laws of our land

for little girls of the age of 5, 6, 9 13 and even up to 16 to be married off and subjected to rape in the name of religion and marriage?

Does the General support paedophiles, sexual predators, sociopaths, sadistic perverts and the criminally-insane like the Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau who are sexually attracted to innocent and defenceless little girls and who believe that they can be ‘’sold in the market’’ and ‘’forced into marriage and slavery?’’ Does he honestly believe that Boko Haram are human beings? Does this man that wants to be President of our country not recognise a heartless and callous beast when he sees one?

Does the wanton and relentless shedding of rivers of innocent blood, including the blood of children, not move his heart? Does the open abduction of almost 300 little girls, each of whom is young enough to be his grandaughter, from the sanctity of their school dormitory in the dead of the night not evoke pity in him and not stir him to rage?

Does he have any compassion and does he feel no pain for the suffering of the victims of Boko Haram? Does he know that Boko Haram has killed as many muslims as they have christians in their insane attempt to establish an islamic fundamentalist state in our country?

Is his inability to make a distinction between Boko Haram and the Nigerian people informed by the fact that he is a closet Haramite whose stated desire is to ‘’spread sharia throughout the whole of the country’’ as he said in 2001? Does Buhari still believe that ‘’muslims should only vote for those who will protect their interest’’ as he said in 2001?

Does he still believe that ‘’christians should not worry when muslims chop off their own arms and hands in the name of sharia because it is none of their business’’ as he said in 2001?

Does he still believe that Boko Haram members should be forgiven, granted amnesty, pampered, sent abroad to learn and given monthly allowances like the Niger Delta militants like he suggested in 2013?

The questions are legion. Given his views and obvious sympathy for Boko Haram, does General Muhammadu Buhari have the moral right to condemn anyone, least of all the President and the Federal Government, for the challenges that we are facing in this country?

If the truth must be told ,the only thing that is worse than Boko Haram are those in the Nigerian political class that secretly support and covertly assist them. ABuhari Presidency would be a disaster for our country, a danger to the christian community and clear evidence of the final victory and triumph of Boko Haram and the jihadists over the Nigerian state. It would also represent the end of Nigeria as one nation.

Dying art of letter-writing and ict revolution (1) Kingsley Charles

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ith the advent of the Internet, the growing of SMS and the diversification of communication technology in the present-day world, letter-writing appears to be teetering on the edge of extinction, as it has now become the Cinderella of the world of communication. Unarguably, the current revolution in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), through electronic mail and telephony, has eroded the relevance of letter-writing and postage stamps from our globe. Nowadays, more and more people are becoming accustomed to instant messaging as communication

technology advances. Consequently, the conveyance of thoughts and feelings via the Internet has become the current trend in the communication world. The emergence of the Internet and the improvements in ICT are, no doubt, meritorious technological feats.

For instance, email is a much quicker means of written communication. Also, email can be sent from anywhere, and it allows one the benefit of sending the same message to different people at the same time, provided there is an Internet connection. Despite the ground-breaking achievements in ICT, the moribund art of letter-writing appears worse than it seems.

It is indisputable, and somewhat regrettable,

that many teenagers are not knowledgeable about postage stamps and their uses. Accustomed to sending messages and emails with their mobile phones via the Web, a great many Nigerians hardly visit post offices to send letters anymore. Thus, this has belittled the relevance and importance of postage stamps and letter-writing in Nigeria. This, in turn, has become a source of worry to the Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST), which is responsible for the designing and printing of postage stamps in Nigeria.

In addition, the dying art of letter-writing has made inroads into the writing skills of the youth. Having to send messages via social networking sites, many Nigerian youth have thrown the ethics of writing letters to the

wind. They can hardly write good constructions nor can they spell correctly, because of the meaningless abbreviations they employ when exchanging online messages. Hence, the actual meaning of the message is distorted owing to the hieroglyphic abbreviations.

In the modern world, a prerequisite for employment in any firm is a letter of employment, which encapsulates an applicant’s educational background, reason(s) for employment, among others. Lamentably, many a Nigerian graduate has not mastered and internalized the rudiments of letter-writing. This invariably results in the submission of poorly written articles, riddled with grammatical solecisms, during job-hunting.

11

Sunday Mail DECEMBER 14, 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.

Oyo State and the limit of rhetorics Dear Editor, The Nigerian Tribune editorial of Tuesday, December 2, 2014 did the reputation of the 65 year old newspaper a world of good by once again dispassionately situating its analysis on the polity with deference to truth and reality.

Writing on the violence that engulfed the down-town area of Ibadan on Friday November 21 during Governor Ajimobi’s rally at Oke Ado that claimed the life of a police officer and the two similar incidents of November 23 and 24 of the same month, the Nigerian Tribune said: “The Oyo State Government must demonstrate that the peace of the last few years was not a fluke. It must bend over backwards for its sustenance. Governor Ajimobi has mouthed the refrain of peace and security as the superstructure of his administration’s achievements. He must go a step further by ensuring that everything is done...”

No one can improve on such an unsolicited yet genuine admonition but the government is going about it the wrong way by predictably blaming the opposition for an obviously mismanaged internal crisis that cascaded into fatal fracas.

That same dark Friday and barely two hours after the violence erupted, Governor Ajimobi took a trip to the UK and only came back on Monday December 1 early enough to pick his screening certificate in Lagos. To be sure, the governor was sufficiently briefed about the security situation apart from his physical presence at Oke Ado as the melee started. Visiting the police and indeed postponing his trip would ordinarily have been the natural recourse for the chief security officer of the state.

Nature abhors a vacuum and by the time another orgy of violence occurred two days later around Opoyemoja, Isale Osi and Born Foto, and Governor Ajimobi was still nowhere around, Senator Rashidi Ladoja took it upon himself to visit the affected areas but not before he was briefed by the state commissioner of police.

I was privileged to be in Senator Ladoja’s entourage and the visit to the place was instructive as the victims poured out their minds and took him to the inner chambers of their abode to show him the extent of damage. For two hours in his traditional patience, he took in all they have to tell and show him and addressed them afterwards. They clung to every word of assurance and consolation and the side comments from neighbours were even more interesting than what the victims had to say.

On our way back, Ladoja delved into the philosophy of relationship. “Governance, good governance,” he said, “is not always about money. It is more about showing genuine love and empathy especially when there are challenges. People must know that you feel what they feel and that the leader is always there for them.”

For the next hour or so, a lively discussion ensued at his Bodija home on the practicality of governance with a human face. The point of reference was the demolition, by the Ajimobi government, of the home of the doyen of progressive politics in Ogbomosoland, Prince Babatunde Alao Oladimeji Okanlawon.

He was in the forefront of those who brought the Action Group, the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and ACN, now APC to Ogbomosoland yet none of these was considered. In spite of frenetic pleadings by the old man, his only home was pulled down at Oja Igbo by bulldozers while he watched the wreckage. Government said the house had to give way for beautification and expansion but neither compensation nor an alternative abode was given to the old man.

Okanlawon rued the scenario, cast a nostalgic look at the struggles, the denials and victimisation of the past 60 years and he died with the demolition weighing heavily on his mind.

The conclusion of the informal gathering was that the people of Born Foto, Popoyemoja and Isale Osi will be foolhardy to expect any solace from the present administration because over 6000 people across the state, whose homes and shops were demolished two years ago, were neglected until last week when government announced the first batch of payment. It was so sadly disproportionate to what was destroyed in the first place.

Later in the evening, we all departed, knowing fully well that a government with a human face is waiting in the wings.

Prince Dotun Oyelade is the media director of Accord Party in Oyo State

OBJ’s book and order on publishing At what point is a book said to have been published? Is it when the manuscript has been proofed and the dummy ready for press? Is it when it has been finally printed and delivered to the publisher? Or is it when it is presented to the public via official presentation or launching? If the court fails to prove this beyond reasonable doubt then the Judge of the Federal High Court may just be making Obasanjo’s book more popular because I heard that the book has been out since November 5 and that was how the man who went to court got to know about it. I am waiting for the Police, SSS and Customs to obey His Lordship’s orders on the book.

Kelechi Deca Ikeja, Lagos

Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Dr. Shehu Idris (left) and Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka, at the 50th Anniversary of Nigeria College of Aviation (NCAT), in Zaria...yesterday.

PHOTO: ADEYANJU OLOWOJOBA

Between being Homosexual and Homo Erectus Dear Editor, I was at the police station to press for the release of my client.

While at the station a young boy of about 20 was brought in (not my client). I heard the IPO say: “Can you imagine that this boy is a homo erectus?” I had a difficult time explaining to him that there is a huge difference between homosexuality and Homo erectus. I told him that even he, the IPO, is also a homo erectus and even a homo sapien. Well the long and short was that they released the boy after seeing their folly and the emptiness of the allegation since no one actually saw him or had record of the act except neighbours who said they heard the accused moaning while with another boy in his room. Anyone can make a moaning sound. It is a fundamental right.

Black women, Education and the choice to look pretty Every year, the black woman hands over a cheque for $8 billion to the Asians in order to look ‘more beautiful.’ By so doing, she has ensured we have less money to send our children to the best schools or to even build and maintain the best schools within our own communities.

We cannot complain of bad amenities when we keep helping the Koreans, the Chinese and the Indians to pay for their children’s education in Harvard, Yale, Berkeley etc by patronising them. They have conveniently short changed our social life. Meanwhile the men have not in any way expressed any displeasure in the looks of the black women.

The new craze for second hand hair has robbed us of every imaginable dignity. Imagine the hair on my wife’s hair being hair that was shaved off an Indian woman’s head in obeisance to her gods and I am expected to be cool with it.

If I loved the Indian hair so much, I could as well marry an Indian woman with the real hair. If I loved the flowing hair, I have women with natural flowing hairs to pick from.

We have been made inferior by all standards, we have been presented as less in the eyes of the world and it is time we fight back to regain our rightful place in history. The world has indeed sold a lie to the black woman. The African is the first and the original person. Others are derivatives.

Ugoo Anieto

Nigerian politics of failed leadership Dear Editor, When leadership fails and the people endorse their own choice of the same failed leadership instead of rising against the leadership, then the failure becomes an all-encompassing one. We notice with every election cycle in Nigeria the vigour with which Nigerians of every persuasion are haggling for their preferred candidate(s), heckling one another on social media and elsewhere on behalf of the same politicians that have failed this country over the years. Incredible!!! PS: By failed leadership, I am referring to leadership that has emerged in this country since after the Nigerian civil war.

Eno Beedie Abuja

Between PDP and APC, which is better than the other?

Which party doesn’t have corrupt people? Which party doesn’t condone people that have pulled the country down? None in my honest opinion.

But the fact that there is no good party doesn’t mean there are no good people in these parties. At the centre, the ruling party has FAILED us woefully. You can claim all theoretical improvements but we all know when a nation is TRULY moving forward, so let’s change for now.

It is just 4 years, if the new man is not so good, we can chnage back to PDP man at the centre.

You can shout religion or tribalistic sentiments even on top of Kilimanjaro but I’m lining up behind who I believe in. The Christians shouting Muslim agenda by General Buhari should tell us what Christian Agenda the likes of Baba Obasanjo and President GEJ have both brought to our country since 1999.

The people of Niger Delta should also come and tell us how their region has become small London in the last 6 years. I’ve heard Governor Amosun shedding tears in some meetings, saying it is so unbelievable that Ogun State has been fortunate to produce a President for longer years and yet no visible development.

Adebola Oni Lagos

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Moment

L-R: Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun; Author/Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Mr. Soyombo Opeyemi; Mrs. Funke Fowler-Amba; Secretary to Ogun State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa; Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka and Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, during the public presentation of the book, entitled ‘Ogun State: The Golden Years’ in Abeokuta…on Saturday

L-R: Board Member, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mrs. Lara Shuaibu; Chairman, Alhaji Kabir Mashi and Field Operating Group, Mr. Ajayi Bamidele, at the FIRS e-filling sensitisation workshop, in Lagos…on Friday. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

L-R: Prof. Olayiwola Erinosho; Dr. Ebunoluwafunmi Oladunni; former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi and President, Social Science Academy of Nigeria, Prof. Uvie Igun, during the investiture of fellows to the SCAN in Abuja… on Thursday

L-R: Chairman, AMAC APGA, Elder Ikechukwu Nwabuaju; Secretary, Chief Stanley Agwara; Winner of FCT APGA Ticket for the House of Representatives, Mr. Maxwell Opara and Fct APGA Chairman, Amb. Steve Emele, at the FCT Chapter of the party’s primary election for the House of Representatives in Abuja …yesterday

Pastor Ojo Oluwastoyin (third right), with the church Elders and Parochial Committee members, during the 40th Adult Harvest Thanksgiving service of the Celestial Church of Christ in Lagos … recently

Pastor in Charge, Faith Revival Apostolic, Pastor Emmanuel Idowu Adenuga, and General Overseer, Apostle Paul Taiwo Adenuga, at the Church’s Convention in Lagos… recently.

L-R: Chairman, Ojodu Branch, Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, Alhaji Abdul-Fatai Aina; Chairperson, Division 4, Dero, Alhaja Aolat Olajire; Alhaja Aishat Salami; Mr. Abiodun Salami and Assistant Missioner, Ojodu Branch, Alhaji Zulu Solat, during the 15th Anniversary/2nd Merit award of Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, Ojodu Branch, Lagos

The newly wedded Adepemi Moses Atilade feeding his wife, Atinuke Jennifer, during their wedding reception at Havilah Event Centre, Lagos

NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

News

We must defeat terror - Buhari

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he presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, General Muhammadu Buhari, (rtd), has condemned the recent bomb blasts which occurred in Kano and Jos last week, killing hundreds of innocent people saying that the nation must rise in unison against terror.

In a statement yesterday, Buhari said that acts of terrorism carried out by people whose actions are not sanctioned by any religion will not succeed in breaking Nigerians who he described as resilient and strong.

“I condemn, unreservedly and with every strength in me, the recent terrorist attacks in Kano and Jos, the two historic cities that are known for their rich cultural and religious heritage. Once again, those who seek to influence our way of life, modify our faith and our most sacred core values, have struck, leaving in their wake lives brutally cut short, limbs badly broken and dreams forced to fade away.

“But these people, whose actions are not sanctioned by any religion and who subscribe to no known decent values, will not succeed. Our people are resilient and strong, and

our nation is capable, based on our rich human and material resources, of successfully tackling these nihilists.”

He assured that he will, together with Nigerians fight terrorism as those whose duty it is to protect lives and properties of Nigerians have failed. “We will together see the end of them and their reign of terror. They have failed

because Nigeria will remain strong and united in the face of what has now become an almost daily infliction of terror on a defenceless people.

Women, children and the aged are not spared by these barbaric purveyors of horror, intimidation and panic. No religion condoles the killings of such vulnerable and innocent people, hence we are sure

these terrorists profess to none of the world’s great religions, much as they seek to mask their actions with the cloak of religion.

Because their ideals are primordial and whatever cause they claim to be pushing is not just, they will not succeed. In spite of their terror, our respective faith and how we practice them will flourish and expand. Our reputation as

a people of deep faith and peaceful religious coexistence will shine through, it will not diminish, it will not be forfeited.”

While commiserating with the victims and their families over the loss of their loved ones, Buhari urged every Nigerian “to demonstrate our time-tested compassion by providing support and succour to those affected one way

or other in their hour of need.”

“To my long-suffering fellow citizens who have borne the brunt of these almost daily senseless attacks, I say help is on the way. Terror must and will be defeated. All it requires is the political will, uncommon courage and unrelenting determination, and victory will be ours,” he said.

Cleric flays non-payment of workers’ salaries Musa Pam Jos

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he Church Council of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), has expressed dismay over non-payment of salaries of staff by some state governments in the country.

Reading the communiqué of the 87th General Church Council held at the church headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, the COCIN President, Dacholom Datiri, also called on the government at all levels to intensify effort at reducing the plight of internally displaced persons and also to create structures for rehabilitating them.

He expressed deep concern over failure of some states including Plateau to

pay workers salaries, advising all affected states to pay their workers because, quoting the scriptures, he said a worker deserves his wages.

The communiqué also condemned the abduction of girls, men and women in the North-East by Boko Haram and called for the release of all the abductees, especially the over 200 Chibok schoolgirls.

He condoled with those who lost their loved ones in the various attacks by Boko Haram and also appreciated the donation of relief materials by his church in response to the needs of the internally displaced victims in the country.

Datiri commended the Federal Government, particularly the military and

other security personnel, in the fight against insurgency, adding that the military should do more and fish out all the fifth columnists in their ranks.

The clergy said Nigeria is passing through a turbulent period and lamented that corruption in the country has defied all solution. He appealed to all Christians to

focus on God in truth, justice and righteousness and shun corruption, for the church henceforth will not tolerate any corrupt.

Propertymart inaugurates Edensville Estate

A

s part of a strategic intervention and support to government in the provision of affordable housing, Propertymart Real Estate Investment Limited has launched another world class estate called EdensvilleEstate.

The estate, located at Simawa, Ogun State, is a walking distance from the new Redemption Camp Ground on the LagosIbadan Expressway.

Speaking during the in-

auguration of the estate, the Managing Director, Propertymart Limited, said “EdensvilleEstate promises most of the luxury and exclusivity of a world-class estate at an affordable price with flexible payment plan.

Adesope also affirmed the company’s commitment to accord the new estate best quality in all aspects.

He explained Edensville Estate is “a perfect balance of urban living and coun-

tryside abode for home owners who desire luxury and affordable homes at the same time”, he stated that the estate has been carefully planned and it comes with lush gardens, trees amidst green areas, extensive walkways and modern architecture.

Adesope added that the new housing scheme was in line with government’s effort to bridge the huge housing deficit in the country.

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Fashion

2015 trends projection 22-43

Bed, Work & Life

It’s a woman’s world...no?

20

Body Soul SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

Friends diagnosed me with ‘entrepreneur fever’ - Kola Adewale

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

eart h y m m o r f t h Straig a re ‘ a p o l a i m e d t h e y ld n ’t ? T h e c t a h t s d n rie ou tics, even f ay s. W h o w t a l k i n g p o l ip ic s in p o li ti cs th es e d h ed fe v er p it ch . T h o se s i e n o y r e v it ia ti n g to o n h as re ac n ex t lu ck y li ti ca l’ ar e inth e 20 15 g en er al el ec tith at w il l th ro w u p th efo r th e n ex t to n e p ro ce ss af fa ir s o f th e n at io b u il d u p re st ed in th e ac ti v el y in tew il l b e in ch ar g e o f th u ta ti o n s. en ts h el d m at er p th r le ei p d -p u ll in g evm in g el ec th w eo g o in cr o ak w m se t o f p T y e al re ad f ac ti v it y. th e u p co fo u r y ea rs arw ee k , w as a b ee h iv e ov y in g fo r p o si ti o n s in th e st at e. N at u ra ll y, st in es la s ti l p ar m ar ie L ag o s, en t.

- h ad it s p ri f th e p o li ti ca the h er e. O n e o P ro g re ss iv es C o n g re ssan an d v eh ic u la r m o v em u n d e r s t a n dg u n , d l u ll m o A u w h e e n th o o re b o O s ti o n -t h in . , in cr ea se i g h t m a re n fo u n d ed th er e w as anL a g o s w a s u s u a l l y a n. T h e fe ar s w er e n o t u e, w as a n ig h tm ar e k at n i st ee w e c th le s o f la st Tr a ff i f re si d en ts v er n o rs h ip p ri m ar ie s in en p ed es tr ia n s, h ad ta o n io at id o tr ep th at ro u te , ev . f th e A P C g th e v en u e o s. T h o se w h o tr av el le d w as p o o rl y o rg an is ed n h e l d h o u r s l a t e r. o it i t ay at n d e o th v n tw as o o f th at r C w fo th e d u ra ti o n T h e v er d ic t ’s National w o e to te ll . n d m a t t e r s , t h e p a r t yla n s to st ay in d o o rs fo r e co n v en ti o n w h ic h To c o m p o u u ld af fo rd it , m ad e p w h en , h o u rs b ef o re th t e g o v e r n m e n t a n a T h o se w h o cotr a- p ar ty ev en t. E v enu m i n S u ru l e re , t h e s t e ar ea , n er v es w er e in i th d r a in t la S c cu fi n ti u af g p ar at ea si n g tr at io n .

Te s l i m B a l o c w as h e l d a t t h e v em en t ad v is o ry ai m ed e tr af fi c si tuen ts re al is ed th at tr af fi A P C rs o o w m d d te ce n ec g u p d n no se w h en re si R es id en ts ex th at th e ru li n o t ca lm ed . ef o re , a p le as an t su rp ri o d ay s. It w as p ro o f cu rs o ry at te n ti o n to er It w as , th ed th o se tw n fr o m m o re th an a b et te r m an agt in L ag o s S ta te p ai d ed th at it le ar n t a le ss o ef o re . b en w It sh o s h o u rs g o v er n m o f th e ev en t. ip p ri m ar ie ca ll s th e p la n n in gu se d b y it s g o v er n o rs hf th e st at e g o v er n m en t n ti o n M o te ca t at s cl o se th e p ar th e ch ao ti n u e to p ay f co n ce rn o n T h is sh o w o at io n . I w is h it w il l co ne st at e. fi ll ed d fo r co m m en n ce rn in g re si d en ts o f ther s. M ay th is w ee k b e ad co re es d su re to is e. ay m y tr ea su H ap p y S u n dr fo r u s al l in Je su s n am te h g u la w it h

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Juliet

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Contents 14.12.2014 COVER

After forfeiting my prospective position as a director in KPMG, I sought to do something that would supersede that job and of course, the wages in the accounting firm

-Kola Adewale

} 18-19

BEAUTY Knowing your undertone is essential to finding the right foundation for your skin

} 21

FASHION

Fashion is constantly evolving, even though it just relegates some things to the background while it brings others to the limelight

T h e Te a m Juliet Bumah (Editor)

Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent) Wole Adepoju

} 22&43

Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics)

MY PASSION There are roles that our culture does not permit. But if I confirm the money is paid into account, I’ll act nude

Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) +234 (0) 811 675 9770, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 julietbumah@gmail.com julietbumah@newtelegraphonline.com

} 17

GLAM DUDES Not using a shoehor n is like washing an expensive suit yourself rather than taking it to the dry cleaners

} 44

Associates

BED, WORK & LIFE “Wife? Wow!” the visitor exclaims, rolling her eyes and letting out a loud laugh.

“Yeah, wife,” Dave says happily and tur ns to Kathryn and says, “My wife, Alice is my cousin, James’ wife.”

Kathryn’s eyes literarily pops!

James’ wife?

} 20

Helen Paul

Eyitayo Aloh

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NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

Body&Soul

I’ll act nude if pay is right -Liz Da Silva You are popularly known as Liz Da Silva, What are your real names?

My real names are Elizabeth Omowunmi Tekovi Da Silva.

When did you join the movie industry?

I ventured into the industry in 2004 through Iyabo Ojo; she has been very helpful to me as a friend.

Did you go through formal theatre training?

Yes, I got trained by Ray Eyiwunmi.

Who inspired you into the movie world?

I got inspired into the theatre world from my secondary school days when we used to do school drama.

What was the title of the first movie you featured in and what was your first experience like?

I can’t remember the title of my first movie, but I can remember that I played only one scene in it.

Mention some of the movies you have featured in.

Omidan by Iyabo Ojo, Omo Ni kara by Adewunmi Fatai, Eyin Oju Eledumare by Bayo Tijani to mention a few.

10 years on, how many movies have you featured?

I have lost count.

Have you produced any movie?

Yes, I’ve produced few movies. My first movie was in 2007. It is titled, Ore l’ore Nwoto. Others include Desire, Itanje, Mama Insurance, Alebu kan, Mawo’badan and Tasere which is the most recent movie.

Nollywood actress, Liz Da Silva, has lost count of the number of films she has featured in since she started acting about 10 years ago. In a chat with EDWIN USOBOH, the light-skinned actress and mother of one opened up on her passion, acting and her Ankara show coming up. roles you play?

Either married or not, as an actress, you should be picky of some roles.

Being happily married as an actress, what advice will you give to your colleagues who do not have a stable home or are divorced?

Why being particular about the movie industry? Divorce occurs in every profession.

I can only advice every woman to be patient with their husband and always be prayerful.

How supportive is your husband of your career?

He is hundred per cent supportive of me and my work.

If you have the opportunity, what would you like to change about yourself?

Lolz…If it’s possible for me to still be tall, I would have loved to be taller than this.

Don’t you feel threatened by some new faces coming into the industry?

Why should I? I’m sure when I got into the industry, my senior colleagues didn’t feel threatened! The sky is so wide for every bird to fly.

As an actress, would you play every role that comes your way?

I can play every role as a professional but there are some roles I won’t do that our culture does not permit.

You have an event coming up soon; could you tell us about it?

The project I’m having at hand now is titled ‘Ankara Day’s slated for December 27, 2014 at Times Square Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.

Let us be realistic now. As a married actress, if you are paid a huge sum to act nude in a movie, will you accept the tempting offer?

If I confirm the money is paid into my account, I will act nude.

What is the mission of ‘Ankara Day?’ The concept behind ‘Ankara Day’ is to promote unity of Africans through our culture, assist the less privileged through donations made on ‘Ankara Day’ yearly; organise fashion pageants; develop youths positive behavior toward our cultural costumes, elevate and appreciate our culture through our way of life such as our mode of dressings and to keep our bond as actors. The event will showcase choreography, stage play (pantomime), Ewi, panegyric music, fashion parade, dance troupe and musical performance.

Popular actress, Toyin Aimakhu, will anchor the event, while Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, among others, will entertain the guests.

Won’t you consider your husband before you accept the offer?

I’m sure my husband will be happy about it if he confirmed my account is loaded.

Could you tell us some of the challenges you have faced in the last 10 years in the industry?

I’ve encountered so many challenges both positive and negative which is normal in everything you do in life. If you want to be successful in life, you have to go through challenges.

Who is your role model in the industry?

My role model is Bukky Wright.

What’s the joy of being married as an actress?

The joy of being married as a woman is so wonderful, having a happy home with my good family is all I have ever wanted, I thank God I am enjoying that now.

What will be your reaction if you are paired with an actor with mouth odour to kiss in a romantic role?

I won’t kiss him because I won’t be comfortable. I will tell my director about it, he has to tell him to use a mouthwash.

Would you have a joint account with your husband?

I will if he will be the one putting money in the account, if not, I can’t have a joint account with him.

How do you relax when you are not on location?

I’m always relaxing in the comfort of my home.

Where is your favourite place for vacation?

Ghana, Togo, Sierra Leone, South Africa etc.

As a married actress, are you selective of the

Don’t you feel people will criticise you?

They should keep criticising while I keep spending the #1billion largesse from the role.

You dress provocatively, does your husband complain?

No, he doesn’t.

What can make you cry?

I could cry for joy, if I’m excited about some things. I’m also an emotional person.

Some of your colleagues are delving into politics; do you see yourself doing the same in the future?

No, I can’t do it, but I’m in support of those delving into it wholeheartedly.

Have you experienced sexual harassment in the industry?

I’ve not experienced it, but it’s normal for a man and a woman to admire each other if they wish, and later start dating.

Describe your style.

My style is simple. Simplicity is my key word in fashion.

What is your passion?

My passion in life is to be successful!

What are favourite perfumes and watches?

I use any perfume that smells nice and my favorite wristwatch is Blings.

What’s your beauty routine?

I drink a lot of water and I don’t wear makeup to bed.

What are the pains and gains of being a celebrity?

My pains are in restrictions to do things like taking Okada and my gains are recognition and being independent.

Who is your favourite designer?

My favourite designer is Tippy Couture.

What’s your greatest fear about life?

I am scared of death.

How would you describe yourself?

I am a cool, God fearing and honest person.

What message do you have for your fans?

I love and appreciate them all. All I’m asking from them is their support and prayers.

I promise not to disappoint them.

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Body&Soul

Friends diagnosed me with The brain behind The Place, Ikeja, Lekki and The Knights Lounge in Victoria Island, Kola Adewale, is a seasoned entrepreneur with a first class degree in Agricultural Engineering. Soft spoken and witty, he describes his 16 years working experience in KPMG as a training period. In this interview with VANESSA OKWARA and BIWOM IKLAKI, he talks about his long trek to the business empire he is building

Tell us about your robust educational background.

I attended Maryland Convent Private School (Nursery and Primary). Maryland Comprehensive Secondary School, Federal Government College, Ijanikin, Lagos for advance learning programme; Obafemi Awolowo University, then Univeristy of Ife for my Bachelor’s degree.

I studied Agricultural Engineering and made a first class in 1990. I was the first and only student who ever achieved that.

How old are you?

I am now 45 Years old.

Where are you from?

I am a half caste, half Oyo, half Osun states. (General laughter) What was your job experience before this business?

Despite my certification as an Agricultural Engineer and based on intellect, I was recruited by an accounting consulting firm formerly known as Arthur Anderson now KPMG and ACCENTURE Nigeria Limited, where I worked for 16 years as an accountant and auditor. In my later years, I worked as a management consultant, rendering advisory services to companies. You go through the coaching and training until they consider you smart enough to deal with that type of work. I was at the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture during my national service.

How did your work experiences with KPMG help you?

It gave me very good rounding on how to manage businesses. It helped me garner business experience and all the things that are important for running businesses; learning management strategies, operational best practices, record keeping, client relations, staff relations, controls as an auditor and how to introduce checks and balances, upgrading your products and optimal use of information technology among many others.

Why did you leave after 16 years?

Four years into the career, it dawned on me, based on the experiences, that I have what it takes; based on running businesses for clients, I knew I wanted something different, and rising through the reins of an accounting firm from a low level recruit to a partner opened my eyes to the prospect that I could own and successfully run my own business. This was especially as I sought to earn my own living and relinquish the constraints that came with earning a fixed income.

I wanted to explode in terms of wealth creation. As an entrepreneur, you will have the wherewithal to branch out into any other area of business that you see more opportunity in. Besides the usual constraint which is money, it was easier to make moves when I wasn’t working for somebody.

How did you end up in hospitality and entertainment business?

My friends had diagnosed me with ‘entrepreneur fever,’ being a man with many ideas and a daring and adventurous spirit. I delved into many businesses, before this current venture - a restaurant and bar. After forfeiting my prospective position as a director in the accounting firm, I sought to do something that would supersede that job and of course, the wages in the accounting firm. However, as is the case with many businessmen, I had quite a struggle raising substantial capital. I dabbled into many ventures. I had to search myself and think of a busi-

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Body&Soul

‘entrepreneur fever’ - Kola Adewale ness that I could start small but with the potential to explode. I had some businesses to compete with in the likes of Mr. Biggs, Tantalizers, Mama Cass. I thought of doing a restaurant but to complement it with a bar which wasn’t a very common business.

How did you come up with the idea for your business?

While in KPMG, I created a business roadmap for myself. Long before sourcing for funds, I wrote many business proposals. To leave KPMG at an Associate Director level, that business had to make a lot of sense. I explored all forms of capital raising ventures available in Nigeria, even loans from banks. I took the initiative of the eateries, which was a big market then, and thought to complement it with a bar and lounge thus THE PLACE! THE PLACE, wow, how did you come up with that name?

I played around with many names and being democratic, I asked my friends for contributions. I put a list together and showed all my friends that these were the names I had and they could give their input. A friend of mine came up with the name and I liked it amidst controversy of its being too plain. It was the most interesting of all the names that were in the running. Downstream, not everybody warmed up to it. It was my father who said, if I could make it a successful brand, it would be a name that everyone would come to accept.

When did you start the business?

Ikeja GRA is the first outlet and we opened shop in August 2006, after quite a struggle with the location.

Tell us about that.

At the initial location, I bought a parcel of land and began building. Just when we were going to start roofing, I was told that it was located in a residential area, thus, I put it up for sale. I was a little desperate and just wanted to move forward.

I resolved to seek a new location which was a very highly ‘commercial area’. I found another place, and because I didn’t have enough for the lease, I borrowed money from friends to pay the lease for three years, but I was once again told this location was residential. It was ridiculous because we had Chicken Republic and even banks in that area, yet they said it was a residential area and I couldn’t do business there. I wondered if it was a politically motivated wedge because it was in the era of the Obanikoro and incoming Raji Fashola. A clamp had been placed on any commercial business in the area. We decided to operate off the grid quietly, underground with no advertisements, no sign posts and only on a need to know basis. We began the night club, telling my friends and their friends. This later progressed to having table service. It was very slow at the beginning. We had a lot of competition which shook us a little bit.

Along the line, we combined a nightclub with the restaurant. It was probably a blessing in disguise when looked at in comparison with the competition.

So the bar was not part of the plan? You just made it up to beat the competition?

Not really, I was going to have a bar all along.

Are you a social person? Was the club born out of your love for the club scene?

Because of my background, I felt I could

do any business I set my mind to. I’m not a social person by nature; the night club was created entirely as a business interest, though the initial idea was a fast food restaurant complemented with a bar and lounge. I did not necessarily have to have the technical skills. I had delved into aeronautical engineering and others before I started the restaurant chain.

So, do you have any culinary skills?

None whatsoever. My background in the accounting firm allows me to own this venture without necessarily having any skill or passion in the makings of the business; I do not cook or club often.

How then do you know what is what, and how to carry out the business?

I accept that there is still a lot to learn. I do what I know best is keeping books. I still reinforce and invest in fiscal control by bringing in other people to carry out checks and balances. We have installed cameras to watch and dissuade theft by staff.

How do you recruit your employees and restock your kitchen?

We carry out most of the business inhouse; I research for recipes, prices and recruit the chefs or as in this case, basic cooks.

Does that mean you don’t have a professional chef?

No. I like to empower people. We hire basic cooks and when I eat somewhere or find an interesting recipe, we take these recipes and let them apply themselves to create a signature meal. Which I must confess, is not always a hit.

You currently own two other outlets in Lekki and Ikeja. How did you come by

this?

I’d say there were recommendations by friends and deals struck by luck (because of the financial constraints). I am also building another in Victoria Island which will be complemented by an arcade.

As an agricultural engineer, you will accept that food is not an easy business.

How do you do it?

We purchase some supplies but I have stayed true to my agricultural roots by starting a farm in Ogun State, from which some of our supplies are harvested.

Though it’s mostly livestock we rear.

Will you ever leave the food business?

I have plans to expand this business and invest in an as many ventures as possible without necessarily leaving the restaurant business.

Tell us a little about your personal life.

I got married in 2006 in a small, quiet ceremony at a court registry followed by a reception in my house.

To have agreed to this, your wife must be something.

Indeed, my wife is an epitome of beauty and the perfect spouse.

How long were you together before marriage?

We knew each other for four years. It was a friendship that blossomed into love and then some…

I am able to balance family life and run a growing empire by delegating duties to certain members of staff. That way, I do not have to be on site except when it is really necessary.

As a successful businessman, how do you deal with advances from ladies?

What ladies? ( laughs)… I ward off any female attention politely and I stay away from the limelight. Therefore, most people know The Place and not Kola.

How does The Place stand out from the competition?

My motto is to listen and take complaints in good stride, never let your clientele complain about the same issues.

The Place stands out by presenting an amiable ambiance, recognising its clients and making each person feel special and well attended to.

Many similar ventures these days have V.I.P sections. Will The Place ever have that?

No, I personally do not like the segregation. We are all here to have a good time.

How would you describe yourself?

I am very playful and it has got me into a lot of trouble in the past.

Do you consider yourself fashionable?

I am not exactly fashion-inclined, but I try to look good in simple, basic outfits.

Do you have any kids?

Yes, we are blessed with two kids: a son and a daughter.

How do you unwind?

I watch TV. I’m a Chelsea fan, I love soccer. Sometimes, my wife and I go out to other clubs and restaurants.

How do you manage being a family man and a businessman running a growing empire?

What is your passion?

My passion…. That would be work. I am a workaholic.

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Body&Soul

with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

julietbumah@gmail.com

T

It’s a woman’s world...no?

he visitor hugs Kathryn tightly and then thrusts her at arms length, looking her over.

“Kiki! What are you doing here? By Jove, you are looking so good,” she says.

She pulls her to her bosom again and wraps her arms around her.

“You smell great too, as usual,” she adds, with an infectious laugh.

“Thanks auntie. I’m aspiring to be like you...great fragrance, superb dress sense, good life...you’re simply great auntie moi,” Kathryn says, joy in her voice.

They laugh.

“Funny enough, I got a call from Vixen this morning and you were the first person I asked after. She gave me your number. I tried it up to five times and it was switched off. I’ve been thinking of you lately. For so long, you have not bothered to call me. That’s very bad of you. There was a time, I think about a year ago, that a friend wanted to see you, it was then I realised I didn’t have your contact anymore. How has life been treating you? Gawd! I’m so happy to see you again,” she gushes.

“I’m sorry auntie. My phone was stolen. I lost most of my contacts then.

Even Vixen didn’t have your phone number,” Kathryn says.

They seem to have forgotten the men... until Dave clears his throat and says, “So the women are friends? Pray, what bond binds you two?”

“Oh, Dave the Don! We’ll get to that.

James, you’re here too? Forgive my bad manners. Haven’t seen Kiki in ages,” she says.

James smiles sheepishly.

“Now, tell me, what’s happening here?

You dragged me from the gate to this house. I was on my way to a friend’s house. Are Kiki and James the surprise you talked about? Tell me,” she says.

“No...yes,” Dave replies.

The visitor looks at Kathryn and James, her eyes narrowing a little.

“My wifey, didn’t know you knew Kathryn before. Anyway, lemme formally introduce her as my wife to you,” Dave says, moving over to Kathryn and throwing his left arm over her shoulders.

“Wife? Wow!” the visitor exclaims, rolling her eyes and letting out a loud laugh.

“Yeah, wife,” Dave says happily and turns to Kathryn and says, “My wife, Alice is my cousin, James’ wife.”

Kathryn’s eyes literarily pops!

James’ wife?

“Congratulations, Dave The Don!” Alice hails, adding, “And what is James doing here? You said you were seeing someone in Ikoyi.”

“Yeah, I called bad boy Dave and he said I should meet him here, so I made a detour. It was also a surprise. He wanted me to meet his beautiful bride,” James says.

“Oh boy! I knew it! I knew The Don would take us by surprise when he decides to settle down. Gawd! And you left this beautiful lady in the care of my he-goat husband? That’s a risk my darling Dave,” Alice says and they all laugh.

Something withers in James’ intestine as Kathryn shoots him a ‘See the life of

Mr. Righteous’ look.

Auntie Alice is James’ wife? She missed their wedding. Apart from few occasions that they met at parties, their communications had been on the telephone since Alice got married. So, James is the man that swept Alice off her feet?

Kathryn feels like placing her bum on a firm surface. She moves to a chair and ‘crashes’ into it!

“Oh, my wife is pregnant,” Dave tells Alice.

“Oops! Pregnant? Yippee, I’m gonna be a grand aunt very soon. When’s the wedding? I’m gonna be the mother of the day. This calls for celebrations,” Alice declares.

“Yeah,” Dave says, disappearing into the kitchen to get another bottle of champagne and flutes.

James feels most uncomfortable. How come in their seven years of marriage, he never met his wife with Kiki? What relationship is between them? Does his wife know to what use Kiki has been putting her tantalizing body?

Haaaaaaaaaa! To think that he patron-

ized her for more than three years. He probably would have patronized her till date but suddenly, her lines weren’t going through again. Kiki is everyman’s dream of a woman! He had fallen in love with her at a point, only that he was too self righteous to profess love to a whore...yes a whore, that’s what she is. Does his wife know she’s a whore?

Certainly not. That is not even his major problem. Kiki is in possession of an information that can destroy his marriage and life if not handled properly. If I had been a bit nicer to Kiki a few minutes ago! Argh! No rest for the wicked!

He remembers his father ’s favourite saying, ‘If a woman does not kill a man, the man will live longer,” and his mother’s ready-made response, ‘River Ulasi does not swallow a man whose foot did not step into her waters.’

He sips his champagne absentmindedly. It tastes like soursop in his mouth.

He must look for a way to keep his wife away from Kiki, friendship with her means trouble for him.

For Kathryn, it’s a mental torture.

So she slept with Auntie Alice’ husband for close to three years? That is one act she regrets now. How is she going to hide that fact from a woman who made life easy for her at a time she thought she was going to die? To think of the fact that her husband, James, has another family!

Dave has been on the phone for some minutes. As he drops the phone, he announces, “I’ve got to dash to Parkview Estate to pick up something. Wanna come with me James?”

As James searches for the right words to decline, his wife says, “Oh great Dave. James is supposed to see someone in Ikoyi. You two can go while I play catch up with Kiki here.”

“Em...er...I had thought you’d come with us so we could see my client together,” James says, turning to his wife.

“When did we start seeing your clients together? Moreover, I came with my car, you came with yours. Please go with your brother. I have a lot to discuss with my sister here,” Kathryn says.

“My man, we’ll go in one car. Leave the women to gossip. We’ll be back in less than two hours,” Dave says, moving to the door.

“Sure...sure,” James replies and drags himself to the door. He gives Kathryn a ‘have mercy on me’ kinda look and she all but sticks her tongue out at him.

As the door closes behind the men, Alice sighs deeply and stares at Kathryn.

“Kiki! How did you hook my brother in-law? I’ve always known you to be a smart girl. I told you so, remember?

Where did you meet him? Dave is a perfect gentleman,” Alice says conspiratorially.

“Hmmmmmmmmm Auntie, I met Dave in a club,” Kathryn begins but Alice cuts in and asks, “Club?”

“Yeah, but I wasn’t on duty. In fact, I retired about a year ago. I got tired of it all and wanted to settle down. I met Dave when I was most desperate about settling down and the rest, they say, is history,” Kathryn explains.

“That’s a wise decision you took girl.

If you stay in that trade for too long, the law of diminishing return sets in.

Dave is a very good man. His family is quite nice. Be good to them all. I’ll make your stay in this family enjoyable,” Alice says.

“I will auntie, thanks,” Kathryn replies.

“Are you really pregnant?” Alice asks, her voice a bit low.

Kathryn nods and Alice sighs.

“A few months after we met, I told James I was pregnant. He was ecstatic.

We got married...” Alice says dreamily.

“I remember you told me you were getting married. I was in Italy then, we spoke on the phone...auntie, were you really pregnant then?” Kathryn asks, James’ confession dancing in her head. ********* Was Alice really pregnant then? What else did they discuss? Did Kathryn spill the beans? What other secrets do the two ladies share? Join me here on Sunday as we learn more about the past of these two ladies.

•Send your observations to the email above.

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NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

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Body&Soul

Match makeup with skin undertone Vanessa Okwara

W

hen you’re selecting makeup colours for our skin, it’s important to get it right. Our skin is our biggest organ, and it comes in different colours. These colours, referred to as skin tones, are determined by our outer layer’s supply of a pigment called melanin. People with darker skin have more melanin than people with pale skin.

You’ve probably heard someone talking about skin undertones before. They are the subtle tint or cast of colour underneath your skin. Knowing your undertone is essential to finding the right foundation because only a foundation that matches both your skin colour and undertones is going to blend in seam-

lessly.

It’s amazing how your skin’s undertone can affect the way a foundation, lipstick and even eye shadow will look on you.

Determining your undertone will help you pick out the right foundations and other makeup products and help you look your best. The right skin undertone will help you pick out more complementary shades of makeup and clothing.

You may be wondering just how to go about identifying your own skin tone.

What should you look for?

Undertones are in the categories of: • Cool (pink, red or bluish undertones).

• Warm (yellow or golden undertones).

• Neutral (a mix of warm and cool undertones).

There are different ways you can deter-

mine your skin undertone. The simple distinction when referring to skin tone is warm, cool or neutral and these same principles apply to all skin tones, from very fair to dark. To determine yours, simply look at your arm. What colour are your veins? If they’re blue, then you’re a cool skin tone. If they’re green, you’ve got yellow undertones, making you a warm skin tone and if you can’t tell, you’re neutral. Dark skin has more yellow and red undertones, with yellow on the lighter end and red-blue on the darker end. Also, if you have darker skin, observe how you look in opposing colours—such as blue-green (cool) or yellow-green (warm) and blue-red (cool) or orange-red (warm).

Also, if you look good in silver, you

probably have a cool undertone. If you look better in gold, then you’re warm. If you look good in both, you’re probably neutral.

If you are still unsure, simply take a piece of pink and gold fabric and lay it on your arm to see which one your skin looks more like. If it’s neither, then your skin is neutral. If you’re having trouble finding it, you can always ask a professional makeup artist for a skin analysis.

Regardless of which of these categories you fall into, trying foundation on and making sure it matches your skin exactly, especially in daylight, is the best way to get a colour that looks natural and will not look like you’re wearing foundation or even worse, a mask.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

This style is lovely to behold on the abs of a disciplined person, and even those with a bit of girth, they can work with an illusion of a crop top. It is gaining grounds among ladies and is not going anywhere. Expect to see more of the crop top in the looming year.

• Crop tops

F ashion is constantly evolving, even though it just relegates some things to the background while it brings others to the limelight. This is what is referred to as trends. These trends are picked up by fashionistas and made even more popular as people who follow their fashion pick up on these trends and make it part of their styles.

We are going to explore the trends of 2104 that we have loved, rocked and can’t quite stop rocking at the moment. These are the trends that will cross over with us to 2015.

Biwom Iklaki

From the sheers to the lace reveal to the thigh high slits, trends rocked and made popular by Rihanna and Kim Kardashian, these styles are very popular and keeps increasing its following.

We are not tired of them and will bring them in the luggage with which we enter 2015

• Thighhigh slits, Sheer, Lace patchwork

2015 trends projection

Body&Soul

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23

SundayBusiness SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014

Personality

How I saved woman, kids from refuse dump –Alakija p.24

Build robust non-oil sector, experts tell FG

Transport

New Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe ready for luxury market p.25

Interview

Tobacco, big threat to Nigerian economy - Oluwafemi p.27

News

Group cautions CBN on naira devaluation p.28 Goodluck Jonathan

T

Paul Ogbuokiri

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph online.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

he recent rebasing of Nigerian economy shows that it is now more diversified, with agriculture declining from 33 per cent to 22 per cent, and services increasing from 26 per cent to 51 per cent. Oil and gas contributed just 15.9 per cent, while the manufacturing sector was at 6.7 per cent; telecoms 8.7 per cent; and entertainment 1.2 per cent.

But over 90 per cent of government revenue and foreign exchange comes from earning from the sale of oil and gas. This situation of things, according to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, is responsible for the huge shock the economy suffered as a result of the recent drop in the prices of oil in the international market.

The Institute said, however, that if the oil and gas sector and the non-oil sector of the economy are deepened, the economy will no longer continue to relapse into austerity situation whenever the oil prices fall.

According to the President of ICAN, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, further said that the austerity situation announced by government presents a good opportunity for the government to rework its budget in favour of capital appropriations.

He called for the local refining of petroleum products, removal of corruption infested oil subsidy and drastic reduction of the country’s import bill, by encouraging domestic production. He also said that the local content policy in the oil industry should be extended to the aviation, maritime and road transport

Ngozi-Okonjo Iweala

This is to ensure our country becomes self-reliant and to cut down on imports which drain foreign exchange. This is a game changer because it will re-position us globally and rapidly boost our foreign reserves sectors of the economy.

He said: “There is no way this economy can grow with the government spending over 70 per cent of its annual budget on recurrent expenditure. That makes us a mere consumerist country. We are eating our future today. It is wise to commit more to development and building of infrastructure for the future development of the economy. The issues have been on for a long time but I think this is the time to return to it for the economy to survive this fall in oil prices which we do not know how low it will fall,” he said.

He also called for the strengthening of gas production for domestic consumption and export.

According to him, if the government strengthens the its tax system and ensures that all collectable revenue are gathered, the economy would soon overcome the recent shocks of the drop in oil prices and not need to tremble whenever oil prices falls.

But President Goodluck Jonathan had earlier on Monday in Abuja said government would soon commence comprehensive implementation of import substitution programmes, to enhance the local production of goods and services.

He spoke during the Top 100 Businesses Award Dinner held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He said the policy would finally make Nigeria self-sufficient.

Reuters reported that the President further said that he had directed the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to work with other ministries and agencies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, to execute a comprehensive investment and trade agenda that will increase the production of goods and services, that have so far been imported into the country.

The online medium also quoted President Jonathan as saying that the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the CBN are already working with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to cut down on the importation of finished petroleum products.

He said, “We can no longer continue to export raw materials. We must produce what we consume and consume what we produce. We must diversify our economy, even though we know no one nation is an island.”

The project, he said will involve the Federal Ministry of Agriculture cutting down the import of food products, and the Ministry of Mines and Steel, cutting down imports of metal related products.

The President, in obvious reference to the curC ON TI N UE D ON PAGE 24

24

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Business/Personality

How I saved woman, kids from refuse dump –Alakija Going by what we see today, if we keep doing what we are doing as a family with what we have, it won’t be as much as it would be if we partner others and multiply. So, to me, it’s like answered prayers

Folorunsho-Alakija

W

orld’s wealthiest Black woman, Nigerian-born Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija, speaks on how her Rose of Sharon Foundation is putting smiles on the faces of widows and orphans. She spoke on the sides of the Forbes 400 Philanthropy Summit held in New York.

Could you tell more about the Rose of Sharon Foundation and where you got the inspiration from?

The inspiration, really, come from God. My own situation, I’m sure will be different from the situations you may have around. I was used to giving out money to anyone who walked into my company and needed money for something.

And with this I felt God was actually

calling me to find out from Him what He really needed me to do. So, I took to God in prayer and as soon as I finished that prayer, I took myself to study all alone.

He (God) dropped a scripture in my spirit.

The scripture was from James 1:27 (pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.) It was talking about giving to widows and all that.

I was excited that He (God) had spoken and that was a direct answer to my prayer.

And since that time, I never looked back.

I was looking after widows and orphans.

So, when and how long has this been?

We officially launched the foundation in May 2008 and I have friends and trustee

members. Since then, it hasn’t been the same again.

What kind of help do these widows actually need most?

Well, we try to empower them to get on their feet. We give them money and loans.

Of course, interest-free loans with very flexible payment opportunities. And we give their children and orphans scholarships up to the university level, by the Grace of God. You must have a lot of requests from them?

Definitely, initially we had like three widows, until the Lord told me that days of three widows were gone. I was praying on one of those days and He instructed me to go on air; and we went on air. Suddenly, we had a town hall full of widows and orphans in one day and it’s been awesome.

Apart from giving loans and scholarships to their children, we also help them with medical initiatives, through a doctors’ outreach. Sometimes, it’s free and on some occasions, it’s almost free depending on what their ailments are.

We also counsel and pray with them. We help them out with their capital developmental and training programmes. This we do like twice a year. We try to help them as much as we can to make them feel loved and for them to know that there is always

someone they can come to at any time.

We are just as simple as a phone call away and we are like a family.

Is there any particular story of a widow that is so touchy to you?

Yes, there was a particular family that was living in a dump yard and it was scary to find out that any human could be living in a dump yard with all her children.

Of course, we immediately relocated them to a proper house. And we put her through computer training and now, she is into computer services.

Today, she has a place of her own, where she makes money for the family and she is doing well. They are pleased and doing very well.

But it seems you are limited in number?

No, we are not limited in number. This is something that we are doing on our own as a family but I have learnt something really new in the course of this philanthropic event.

I have been waiting upon the Lord for quite sometime, and asking Him how He really wanted us to do this. But what I have learnt today, basically, is that there nothing wrong in impacting on people without this.

I know that when God comes calling on you to do something, He gives you the ability to do that and I have always stood on that platform; thinking that whatever He is giving to us is what He wants us to use for the job.

But I have found out that that is not so.

Going by what we see today, if we keep doing what we are doing as a family with what we have, it won’t be as much as it would be if we partner others and multiply. So, to me, it’s like answered prayers.

I’m sure many people would want to work with you?

I look forward to that. It’s a good beginning of many things to come. forbes. com

Build robust non-oil sector, experts tell FG CON TINUED FR O M PAGE 23

rent over reliance on oil as the country’s major source of foreign exchange, warned that Nigeria can no longer rely on one commodity. “This is to ensure our country becomes self-reliant and to cut down on imports which drain foreign exchange. This is a game changer because it will re-position us globally and rapidly boost our foreign reserves.

“I’m confident that if we are able to produce in Nigeria most of what we consume today, the bulk of investments required to make this happen will surely come from the top 100 companies,” he said.

Renowned economist and Managing Director of Financial Derivatives, Mr. Bismark Rewane, said government should go beyond rhetoric and apply itself to building a productive economy.

“The Nigerian economy is a mere consumerist economy. It consumes what others produce. If it can start to produce at least for domestic consumption, the country will not suffer shocks whenever the oil prices fall.

“The economy will continue to run smoothly if it is directed on the path of production. The real sector has to be energized and that will start with the power sector working efficiently. It is no longer time for waste and excessive importation. The focus should be on production for domestic consumption and for escort.

“Government also needs to look at its expenditure pattern with view to ensuring that more of the government resources go into the productive sectors of the economy,” he said.

Also, at the recent World Economic Forum – Africa, Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, said that Africa must

embrace industry in order to manufacture products with greater value than the raw materials used to produce them.

He said no country has ever moved out of poverty without taking this important step.

An expert in Customs operations and President of Council of Managing Director of Licensed Customs Agents, Mr. Lucky Ameiwero, has said that government should pay attention to its tax system.

“I have said it before and I wish to reiterate that government should take a look at the collection of Customs Duty. Nigeria Customs Service has not done well in that area. If government takes a serious look in that direction, it would be pleasantly surprised at the revenue it would generate. I believe government would generate about N2 trillion as customs duty if government takes a serious look at the revenue it is supposed to make from there,” he said.

Prof. Nnamdi Mojekwu of the Department of Actuarial Science and Insurance, University of Lagos, said the result of the rebasing of the Nigerian economy show that the economy is a very weak as it is dominated by the service sector. He said Nigeria should only say it has an economy that can stand minor turbulence in the oil sector, when the manufacturing sector starts to play dominant role in the GDP. “A look at the performance of the various sectors of the economy in that GDP rebasing shows that Nigerians are not producing anything, we are only consuming. That means the oil revenue is being consumed.

What then do we expect to happen when the oil dries up or when the price falls as we have now? Those charged with the responsibility of managing our resources must wake and do the right, otherwise the future of this country is bleak,” he said.

25

Transport

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014

New Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe ready for luxury market

M

Paul Ogbuokiri ercedes-Benz hopes to carve out a niche in the crowded luxury crossover market with the launch of the all-new GLE Coupe aimed at buyers looking for a nimbler and sportier crossover.

The 2016 GLE Coupe, a derivative of the four-door M-class crossover, has four doors and a coupe-like roofline. It will compete primarily with BMW’s X6, now in its second generation.

Automotive News reports that the GLE Coupe will be formally introduced next month at the Detroit auto show and will be produced at the Mercedes-Benz factory near Tuscaloosa, Ala. Sunday New Telegraph learnt that Mercedes is also using the Detroit auto show to introduce the AMG Sport line, offering fewer performance features at lower prices. It will complement full-blown and more expensive AMG-developed models.

“The GLE 450 AMG Coupe is our first sports model, and further highly emotional and performance-oriented models will follow in the near future,” Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, said in a statement. “The new product line from Mercedes-AMG has allowed us to make true sports car technology and the fascination of motorsports more accessible.”

The GLE also is expected to be priced higher than the M class, which starts at $49,225 with shipping for the ML350 with two-wheel drive and tops out at $99,325 for the ML63 AMG. It was further stated that the GLE Coupe has a 114.8-inch wheelbase and is 192.9 inches long, 78.9 inches wide and 68.1 inches tall.

Mercedes says the GLE coupe “feels like a true sport coupe,” despite the raised seating and SUV-like view.

It also said that the vehicle is equipped with a variable dynamic control 9GTronic nine-speed automatic transmission with five modes -- individual, comfort, slippery, sport and sport+ -- that

The crossover also has a new degressive sport directsteering system with a revised steering ratio. The driver gives input through a new compact sports steering wheel

can be set via a rotary control on the center console.

The GLE model also features Mercedes’ Airmatic air suspension that is now available with the continuously variable damping system ADS Plus.

The system was designed to provide stable driving and adjusts based on the transmission mode.

An active curve system has active roll stabilization and kicks in when the vehicle is put into the two sport modes.

The crossover also has a new degressive sport direct-steering system with a revised steering ratio. The driver gives input through a new compact sports steering wheel.

The GLE has safety, assistance and infotainment features available on the sedans. Mercedes did not detail the full list of standard and optional features.

On the exterior, standard equipment includes AMG body styling with a front and rear apron, a rear-spoiler lip and larger 21-inch light alloy wheels and tires.

Mercedes’ designers carried over features from the new S-class coupe with similar rear lights and wide chrome inserts above the license plate holder that is incorporated into the rear bumper. The rear window is rounded off at the top.

FERMA’s performance excites Perm Sec Sunday Ojeme

N

ewly-assigned Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Dr. Dauda S. Kigbu, has commended the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency for effectively maintaining all arterial federal roads and highways nationwide.

The Permanent Secretary gave the commendation while paying a familiarisation visit to the agency’s Abuja headquarters recently.

Kigbu said that physical infrastructure like roads were a good measure of the health of an economy and an appraisal of government’s performance.

This, according to him, is evident in the state of roads, which cannot be hidden from public glare as observers can see whether they are in good condition or not.

Against this background, he said that keen observers would acknowledge that over the past few years, there had been a steady and marked improvement in the condition of federal roads and highways nationwide.

Given the strong nexus between the condition of roads and economic growth, Kigbu said all stakeholders need to support FERMA to enable it to continue the pivotal work it is

doing to grow the nation’s economy.

He added that the current political will and policy support for the agency would be sustained and enhanced to enable it continue its good works.

As the chief administrator of the Federal Ministry of Works, which supervises FERMA, Kigbu pledged his support for the policies and programmes of the agency.

Earlier in his brief to the Permanent Secretary, FERMA Managing Director/CEO, Gabriel C. Amuchi, reeled out major policies, programmes and strategies his management initiated which led to the generally good and improved outlook of federal roads and high public approval rating.

These include a swift and comprehensive assessment of routes by the current management upon assumption of duties in 2011, to determine their needs and what strategy best suited each route improvement and maintain-wise, introduction of Rapid Road Recovery programme, establishment of preventive maintenance, road surveillance and monitoring mechanisms to ensure roads in fair and good conditions are prevented from developing cracks, potholes and craters, as well setting up the public works scheme in

conjunction with the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), which has engaged over 7, 000 youths from communities abutting major Federal roads nationwide, to carry out various road maintenance tasks.

The FERMA MD/CEO also called for the support of all stakeholders, including political leaders, policy makers, transport owners and workers, as well as the general public in its quest to sensitise Nigerians to adopt a good maintenance culture for roads as well as avoiding wrong and harmful use of the roads to enable them to last longer.

He also stated that the agency was humbled and encouraged by the encomiums, accolades and awards it is receiving from within and outside the country, arguing that these challenges the agency to continue on the path of sustained maintenance of federal highways and roads.

Among such awards are Independent Service Delivery Monitoring Group award as The Most Outstanding Public Agency in 2013, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda African Leadership award for marked improvement on Nigeria’s roads infrastructure (South Africa), among others.

Volkswagen AG considers return to Nigeria

D

ecades after it pulled out on Nigeria and shut down its plant, there are indications that Volkswagen AG is planning to start assembling cars in the country as early as next year.

It plans to do this in conjunction with Dubai-based conglomerate, Stallion Group, according to people familiar with the matter.

Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that the world’s second-largest automaker approved the project for a small-scale final assembly because of the Nigerian government’s new auto policy which encourages local manufacturing. A spokesman for VW declined to comment. Stallion Group didn’t respond to messages seeking comment.

In an interview with Bloomberg TV, monitored by Sunday New Telegraph, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, said Nigeria was in talks with the German auto maker. He explained that no less than 22 foreign auto companies are on queue to commence vehicle manufacturing in Nigeria.

The assembly in Nigeria would mark the Wolfsburg, Germany-based Volkswagen’s first production on the continent outside South Africa. VW’s only other African manufacturing facilities comprise a car factory in Uitenhage, outside Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where it produces the Polo small car, while the MAN commercial-vehicle unit has production locations in Olifantsfontain, near Johannesburg, and Pinetown, outside Durban. VW operates 107 factories globally.

Closely held Stallion has commissioned a vehicle-assembly plant in Lagos and acts as distributor in the country for carmakers such as VW, Nissan Motor Co. (7201) and Hyundai Motor Co.

26

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Benchmark index plunges deeper

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vents in the global and domestic economy continue to depress the performance of the financial markets, as the NSEASI declined markedly by 7.42% week on week (WoW). Investors’ sentiment remained bearish all through the week as the market returned negative on all trading days to peg YtD return at -25.57%.

In the fixed income market, demand for T-bills remained weak as yields trended up (0.05%) leaving average yield at 14.74%.The naira opened at NGN182.55/USD to close at NGN181.60/USD for the week. Mixed sentiments persisted in the bonds market as indicated by the Meri-bond index WtD’s loss of 0.92%. The Benchmark and off-the-run bonds closed offer yields at 14.06% and 13.60% on the average for the week. We also witnessed a pared demand on the short end of the curve during the week while long term bonds had an increase in demand.

The political scene remained tepid ahead of the general elections as conventions and primaries from both dominant political parties held during the week with the emergence of Gen. Muhamad Buhari as the APC flag bearer whilst President Goodluck Jonathan received the ruling party’s endorsement to vie for the seat of the president in the 2015 general elections. .

In this report, we review the performance of the market during the week vis a vis our outlook for the coming week in light of current realities.

Economic Round Up: Benchmark for crude oil price now USD65pb Brent slid further to its lowest price since July 2009 (to USD63.04pb) as key OPEC members stood firm in defence of their market share against U.S. shale producers. This is coming amidst OPEC’s forecasted fall in 2015 demand for crude. In spite of the recent review in Nigeria’s budget benchmark for crude oil (from USD75 to USD65), global crude price continues to trend below the benchmark at current market price. We therefore anticipate a further downward review which will be more representatitive of the current realities.

In a related development, FGN’s daily spending on petrol subsidy dropped to N7.93 per litre during the week, as against N44.94 as at November 3rd, 2014 according to Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA).

However, FX reserves plunged (-17.89% YtD) further to USD35.8bn (compared to USD43.61 in January) as the apex bank continued its defence of the local currency.

Fixed Income Brief: Naira continues to wobble, gains 0.52% WtD According to our gauge, market liquidity remained in the red (1.73) at the beginning of the week, but improved slightly during the week to close at 5.38. On Thursday, however, it rose to 16.06 due to the 150bn OMO repayment on the same day. Money market rates declined sharply with the OBB and OVN paring by 69.55% and 69.19% to close the week at 18.17% and 19.08% accordingly. In the NIBOR space, the CALL, 1M, 3M, and 6M rates changed WtD by -42.48%, -15.22%, +1.52% and +3.36%, closing at 25.38%, 17.10%, 17.28% and 17.54% respectively.

Low demand persisted for T-Bills during the week save for Thursday to peg yields for the 1M, 2M, 3M, 6M, 9M and 12M instruments at 13.91%, 14.42%, 14.46%, 15.14%, 15.15%, and 15.38% in that order. Mixed sentiments persisted in the bonds market as indicated by the 0.92% WtD loss reported by the Meri-bond Index while yields on Benchmark and Off-the-run bonds closed at 14.06% and 13.60% on the average for the week. Demand on the shorter end of the curve waned during the week, while some longer termed bonds had increased demand.

The Naira opened at NGN182.55/USD, and closed at NGN181.60/USD for the week, representing a 0.52% gain. Forward quotes also trended the same line with average mid-quote closing at NGN184.06 as against NGN186.93 the previous week, appreciating 1.56% in the course of the week.

Banking Sector: Bearish sentiments persist In a particularly negative outing for the banking sector, sector breadth for the week pegged at 0.17x as two stocks appreciated against 12 which lost while UNITYBNK traded flat.

WEMABANK and ETI recorded respective price gains of 5.26% and 3.47% while UBA, UBN, ACCESS, DIAMONDBNK and ZENITH-

…as FX reserves sinks 17.89% YtD

week when its price pared by 8.81%.

On the converse, SEPLAT continued its free fall, compounding losses further by 9.52% and led the laggards’ chart for the week. At the current price of NGN324.83, SEPLAT has trimmed 43.61% from its initial public offer (IPO) price of NGN576.00. We however foresee further decline as global oil prices slide further. Other decliners for the week were OANDO, MOBIL, FO and TOTAL as the value for each depreciated by 12.01%, 8.45%, 7.33%, and 2.47% in that order.

In the coming week, we expect the sector to resurge as relatively cheap counters portend opportunities for bargain hunters. However, negative sentiments on SEPLAT and recently OANDO remain bottlenecks to our expectation.

BANK lost 14.29%, 14.12%, 13.30%, 12.68% and 8.10% in that order. In sum, the sector’s return for the week pegged at -6.39% just as YtD return remains negative at -25.69%.

Generally, bearish sentiments surrounding the recent decision of the MPC to increase CRR on private sector deposits have seen ACCESS, FBNH, FIDELITYBK, GUARANTY, SKYEBANK, UBA and UNITYBNK trading at their respective year-lows. A sudden turnaround is not expected in the sector given the instability in the country, the continued need for tightening and its impending effects on banking operations.

Even though we are of the opinion that there might be pocket of gains as investors take advantage of low prices, the sector is expected to trade in the negative realm for the rest of the year, especially as dividend income is currently uncertain in line with the CBN’s regulations in the year.

Industrial goods: Sector continues to bleed The Industrial goods sector closed the week in the negative zone as the stocks in the basket continued to shed points. The Meri-sector index shed -5.80% during the week with only one stock recording WtD gains.

CAP increased its share value by 0.33% thus closing the week at NGN36.22. CCNN on the other hand, emerged the major laggard for the week following share price decline of 14.95% to NGN9.27. Other major price losers included CUTIX, WAPCO, DANGCEM and PORTPAINT which declined by 7.80%, 6.44%, 5.88% and 5.75% accordingly.

Lafarge Africa the parent company of Ashakacem and Lafarge WAPCO, announced a mandatory tender offer (MTO) for the 41.39% equity held by minority shareholders in Ashakacem.

The Pan African cement maker offered to exchange 202 ordinary shares of Ashakacem for 57 ordinary shares of Lafarge Africa in addition to NGN2.00 cash payment per share exchanged.

We are of the opinion that the offer, though at a slight discount to Ashakacem current market price, portends value to medium to long term investors as the Lafarge group is positioned to benefit from the growth prospects of the Nigerian and South African cement markets.

Consumer Goods: Lowest WtD return in 2014 Sector heavy weights suffered huge losses on the back of massive sell offs that pervaded the equities market owing to disturbing developments in the global oil market and their current and anticipated impacts on Nigeria’s oil dependent economy.

As a result, sector’s benchmark index slid 10.08%, as investors sold their holdings in major players such as GUINNESS (-17.74% WtD return), NB (-14.45%), FLOURMILL (-9.74%), CADBURY (9.66%), PZ (3.48%), NESTLE (-3.13%) and UNILEVER (2.86%).

In a related development, PZ Cussons Plc. (the Global group) announced in its 2015H1 trading update that its Operating profit (down 4%) was lower in Africa for the period ended 30th November 2014. This was as a result of challenging trading conditions and the devaluation of the Naira towards the end of the period, as against better performance recorded in Europe and Asia during the same period.

The global diversified consumer goods firm noted the adverse effects of the insurgency in the North, the Ebola outbreak, political tensions around the 2015 General elections and FX volatility as key factors expected to drag its full year performance.

Oil and Gas: Bearish sector breadth; Only ETERNA appreciated The sector closed under water at the close of trading for the week as its index waned 5.54% WoW. Sector breadth was largely in favour of decliners as only ETERNA recorded price appreciation of 3.67% WoW. The counter’s performance may not be unconnected to the significant sell down witnessed in the previous

Insurance Sector: Sector reverses gain as all counters trend south The insurance sector failed to jettison general downward trend in the market, shedding 13.38% as all counters either depreciated in price or traded flat. However, the sector’s performance for the year remained positive at 10.54%.

MANSARD could not sustain the gain recorded in the previous week as it led the losers’ chart with 22.04% WoW loss to close at NGN2.90 (vs.

NGN3.72 in previous week). CUSTODYINS, CONTINSURE, AIICO, NEM and ROYALEX reported respective declines of 13.35%, 12.00%, 6.10%, 4.84% and 3.57% while other counters traded flat.

We envisage that the sector will offer significant upside potentials in the coming year as we expect position-taking to be driven by our expectation of business combinations via mergers and acquisitions in 2015. Case in point, on Wednesday (10th December), Greenoaks Global Insurance, a Swedish based company, announced acquisition of 92.8% stake in Union assurance, making it the second acquisition in the last two weeks, as foreign investors take advantage of the relatively low stock prices and the yet untapped opportunities in the sector.

Healthcare Sector- FIDSON emerged the most hit.

The Healthcare sector trailed the negative sentiments in the market as the sector index shed -0.04% during the week to further pressure the YtD return to -23.28%. Three stocks depreciated in price, while no counter recorded price appreciation during the week.

FIDSON topped the decliners list with 8.85% loss to drag share price to NGN3.09. MAYBAKER and NEIMETH followed suit shedding 4.94% and 4.44% respectively while other counters traded flat.

We opine that the weaning investor’s appetite on the sector stocks is in line with the general market sentiment. We however emphasize the attractiveness of most of the counters in the sector as they are trading below their fundamental prices.

Agric Sector: Bearish bias lingers Given the uncertainties in the market, the sector continued its decline as all stocks recorded further losses this week.

OKOMUOIL, PRESCO, and LIVESTOCK all pared by 9.72%, 9.70%, and 2.92% respectively, as sector WtD change pegged at -9.67%.

Current performance continued to mirror general market mood, as investor sentiments remain bearish. We are of the opinion that the present trend might be sustained as uncertainties persist in the market.

Services Sector... TRANSCORP wears a morose outlook.

The services sector closed in the red zone as the Meri-Services Index ended the week -11.66% down. The hospitality segment took a downturn with TRANSCORP recording the most loss WtD. AIRSERVICE led the gainers’ chart with a 9.70% increase in share price to close the week at NGN1.81. It was followed by ACADEMY with a 4.63% price gain.

On the flip side, TRANSCORP dipped the most having shed 23.56% to drag share price to NGN3.10. It was trailed by ABCTRANS, CAVERTON, NAHCO, IKEJAHOTEL, and RTBRISCOE with 9.52%, 9.43%, 9.01%, 4.51%, and 3.53% WtD losses respectively.

We anticipate that the negative sentiments in the general market may continue to negatively impact on trading activities in the sector.

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

SundayBusiness Interview

Can you tell us exactly what the status of the National Tobacco Control is?

What I can say is that the current version of the National Tobacco Control Bill has actually passed the second reading both in the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Don’t forget that a version of that bill was passed by the sixth assembly but was not assented to by President Goodluck Jonathan. But due process had to be followed and it had to be started all over again. Then, it has passed through the first and second reading and both the Senate and the House of Representatives have organised public hearings. So our expectations are that the committees in both houses should currently be harmonizing the bill from all stakeholders that submitted memoranda so that they can present that in the plenary.

What specifically does this bill seek to enforce?

The Tobacco Control bill is fashioned after the World Health Organisation’s framework on tobacco control is designed to regulate and control the marketing, sales and distribution of tobacco products in Nigeria. There are essential elements which are fashioned after this NTC which are comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising, sponsorship and promotion, packaging and labelling; there are provisions for pictograms and pictures. They cover a minimum of 70 per cent of the display area in any pack so that people who cannot read and write should be able to see the picture of what smoking does to health. There are provisions on protection of non- smokers’ right which is the one we call banning of smoking in public places.

You see, some countries are moving towards achieving 100 per cent smoke free status and we expect the NTC bill to do that when

Akinbode Oluwafemi

Tobacco, big threat to Nigerian economy –Oluwafemi Akinbode Oluwafemi is the Director, Corporate Accountability and Administration at the Environmental Rights Action, in this interview with AHAOMA KANU, he speaks on several issues bothering on the National Tobacco Control Bill and the efforts by the tobacco industry to frustrate the passage of the bill into law. passed into law in Nigeria where the rights of non-smokers are not protected. There are other issues like taxation where the government can use tax as a means of reducing tobacco production. There are several other important solutions contained in the bill but one key one that I would also like to mention is the one popularly referred to as Article 5.3. This is a policy which mandates governments around the world to make sure that they insulate their NTC laws from the vested interest of the tobacco industries. Basically, what this means is that if you are implementing policies to ensure reduction of smoking in your country make sure that the tobacco companies who are always there to undermine those provisions are kept away.

The tobacco companies have raised objections to sections of the bill relating to corporate social responsibility and the composition of the National Tobacco Control Committee. What is your take on this move?

I think that they have laid complaints to several portions of the bill. They will come out and say they are not against the so called National Tobacco bill but they work underground to make sure that no law is passed or that any law that is passed is completely useless or that that law is not actually worth the paper on which it is written on. From the one you mentioned which is about CSR actually is actually linked to two sections of the framework of the tobacco control of which Nigeria is a

signatory and a party. One section is the one on advertising and sponsorship and the other one is Article 5.3. The one on sponsorship is that every form of promotion, every avenue that the tobacco company uses to promote itself is completely banned by the government. In Nigeria, we have seen tobacco companies use their corporate social responsibilities to present themselves; they just use their advert projects and put it in this CSR so that people will think that they are cool and think less about the harm that they have been causing to society. Talking about 5.3, they have been able to bring government officials together to sit down on the table contrary to what WHO is advocating that governments should keep these people out.

The CSR they do is one back door policy they have used in order to bring government officials to the table at their own will to endorse all kinds of things and activities which they do. That is why we are saying ‘no’ and they are raising objections. What we are simply saying is that a law that would be passed in Nigeria should be FCDC-compliant. They raised issues about the National Tobacco Control Committee. This committee, in concept, is supposed to be the soul of tobacco control in Nigeria. They are supposed to meet periodically to review what is working and what is not working. Don’t forget that the objective of this bill when passed is to reduce tobacco smoking in Nigeria. So you have this committee made up of government officials, civil society and other stakeholders who sit down and look at the workings and otherwise of the bill. As for us, we do not need the tobacco industries in Nigeria but they are saying they want to sit down again. Please, do you invite mosquitoes to a meeting of how to cure malaria? It is not possible.

One of the claims they are making is that the National Tobacco bill will lead to job losses?

That is one of the funny arguments of the tobacco industry. But before I answer that, I would like us to pause and check the facts: how

many people are employed by the tobacco industry in Nigeria? I have heard a federal minister talking to us and saying that it is just that their factory at Ibadan and that it is fully automated. So all you need to do is press buttons and then supervise the production.

It is completely automated. They also told us at a public hearing that the total number of staff they have in Nigeria is about 960. Let us even say that since that time they have added like 100, that means about 1060 Nigerians are employed by the tobacco industry in this country. But they would want you to count the Mallams selling cigarettes on the streets among the people they have employed in Nigeria. I don’t think that is right. The second reason is that, you cannot because they have given jobs to say over 1000, allow them to continue killing our brothers and sisters in the hundreds of thousands. This is the real fact: tobacco is an epidemic on public health; tobacco is killing people, the social and economic life of this country. So we have to do that balance and protect public health.

So what sections of that bill do you think should be strengthened?

There are some components of the bill which I have mentioned; for instance advertisement, sponsorship and promotion. I am particularly keen about the provision of the pictorials; it should not be less than 70 per cent. Also, some of us are keen about the provision of public smoking; ban on smoking in public places. We are saying a significant ‘no’ to designated smoking areas.

Let me explain. All over the world there have been steps and missteps on tobacco control and wherever they exist, tobacco control laws don’t work. And the simple analogy is that you cannot smoke on one side and come over to the other side. You cannot cage air.

Scientists all over the world have shown that what works is a complete ban on smoking in all areas. So if people want to smoke, they can go to their homes where there is no child or a non-smoker and smoke. Any environment that will affect a non-smoker or a child should be completely removed. So that provision on smoking in public places should be strengthened to completely remove designated smoking areas. We are not imagining this; a lot of countries all over the world are going completely smoke-free, so why not Nige-

CO NTINUED O N PAGE 29

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

SundayBusiness/News

Group cautions CBN on naira devaluation

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Chijioke Iremeka group of professionals, under the aegis of Christians Welfare Initiative has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to carefully study and examine the effect of naira devaluation on the economy.

The group, which made this call during a one-day conference, titled: ‘The State of The Nation,’ said the effect of excess oil supply in the world and the drop in the country’s

revenues called for proper planning to ensure that naira devaluation does not worsen youth unemployment.

According to CWI President, Prof. Magnus Atilade, economic diversification in Nigeria must be vigorously pursued, in areas such as farming, technical and vocational training for youths in order not to aggravate the tension in the nation.

He said, “With my layman’s understanding of economic forces, if there

is over production of oil, which leads to over supply of oil, the price will drop. So, why are other countries of the world experiencing a reduction in pump price, and Nigeria, an oil producing country, will be increasing pump price, whether subsidy or no subsidy?

“Which economic law is that?

The law of Economics says, the higher the demand, the higher the price and the lower the demand,

the lower the price; and the higher the supply, the lower the price.

This is what is happening in the international market.

We need to build our refineries to have the capacity to refine our oil.”

Atilade noted that diversification of the country’s revenue base had become inevitable in order that the real sector would contribute meaningful to the Gross Domestic Product of the country for meaningful development.

L – R: Marketing Manager, Innovation, Ms. Omosefe Odaro; Ogba Plant Manager, Mr. Tunde Adegbola and Corporate Relations Director, Mr. Sesan Sobowale all of Guinness Nigeria Plc, during a recent media brewery tour for Orijin at the Ogba Plant in Lagos.

Stakeholders stress need for economic diversification

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Azubike Nnadozie alls for the diversification of the economy reechoed recently in Osun State during the second annual conference of the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), hosted by the state government.

Stakeholders at the conference identified as worrisome, the mono-product nature of the Nigerian economy which had been the situation for decades, and called for the immediate diversification of the economy to avoid imminent insolvency.

The conference which centred on tourism marketing led to calls on the federal government to muster enough political will to make tourism a major foreign exchange earner, as has been the case in several countries of the world.

Speaking on the topic, ‘Nigeria and the repo-

sitioning of Tourism,’ Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief, of The Sun Newspapers and President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Femi Adesina, said though there have been series of fora where the need to diversify the economy of the country and break the mono- product dependence on oil had been emphasised, all the findings significantly ended up in the shelves, where they gather dust.

He said that for many decades Nigeria had depended on crude oil exports, adding that the day of reckoning may have finally come for the country.

“The discovery of shale oil and gas by America, the biggest customer of our oil, would mean that revenue from that resource would dwindle in the months and years to come. And to make matters worse, some neighbouring African

countries have discovered oil in commercial quantity. What then do we do, begin to drink our oil? That doomsday may well be at the very doorsteps,” he said.

In order to escape the impending austerity season, Adesina, advised that the time had come for Nigeria to get the best from tourism resources and its potential. He added, “The time has come to reposition and re-create ourselves as a tourism destination. For Nigeria to compete as a global tourism destination and shift away from oil dependency, government at all levels must work harder to keep the economy on an even keel, so that prices of goods and services can be stable, and within reach.”

According to him, Nigeria must reposition as a tourism destination and it should be done not tomorrow, next year or next season but now.

Also speaking, Osun

State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Culture and Tourism, Omo-Oba (Hon) Adetona Sikiru Ayedun, said the state plans to earn overN15bn in 2015 out of the over $3 trillion revenue available globally through tourism.

Ayedun said that the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola had technically and consciously proved by its robust interrelationships with tourism and cultural endowed nations like Cuba.

“So far, the Government of the State of Osun has aggressively improved the infrastructures such as roads, power and security. Our business visitation to Cuba has exposed us to ideas on how tourism and culture could be promoted as revenue earners for our State in particular and Nigeria in general.

This is what we are doing and we are reaping benefits from the actions,” he said.

Nwankwo, Iwu win 2014 road safety competition T he duo of Masters Victor Nwankwo and Patrick Iwu from Christ the King Grammar School, Okigwe, Imo State, have emerged the 2014 winners of the National Road Safety Competition.

The event was organised by the Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps.

The final of the Senior Secondary School students contest on road safety was held at MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

Nwankwo and Iwu beat Emiemokumo Gesiye-Emi and Francis Ukpere from Winners’ International Academy, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and Ahmed Sanni Bello and Oluchi Ohaka from Federal Government College, Malaki, Kaduna State to the first and second runners-up places.

Master Adewole Damilola of Ondo Boys High School, Ondo, who scored 98 per cent in the test, was named 2014 Safety Ambassador.

While Nwankwo and Iwu went home with a trophy, 20 KVA generating set and laptops, Damilola was decorated with an FRSC Marshall uniform and handed a laptop. The runners-up were rewarded with a mul-

S

tipurpose copier, complete computer set and notebook computers.

Speaking shortly after the emergence of the winners, SPDC Director of Human Resources, Mr. Obinna Anaba, said the competition was aimed at supporting the development of school children’s general and road safety knowledge as well as encouraging national focus on child safety in Nigeria.

“We believe in catching them young, spreading the safety message to our youth as early as possible because these are the future leaders.

The earlier they got the message, the better for the future generation,” he said.

Assistant Corps Marshall, Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Shehu Zaki, hailed for bringing safety campaign to the secondary schools.

Zaki expressed optimism that the future of road safety campaign is bright going by the excellent display of the participants.

He congratulated the winners, and enjoined those who do not win to put in more efforts in subsequent competitions.

He called on all participants to spread the message of general safety and road in particular on returning to their various destinations.

Customers commend Glo on Overload bonus

ubscribers of Nigeria’s National Telecom Carrier, Globacom have commended the operator for introducing Glo Overload, a promotion that gives 200 per cent bonus airtime and data to customers for every recharge they make.

Many of the operator’s subscribers whose views were sought described the promo as timely, coming at a time when it is customary to show love.

Abraham Jighu from Ogba, Lagos has this to say about his experience: “I opted for Overload by dialing *200# and I’ve been enjoying the 200 per cent bonus on my recharges just as Glo promised.

It is more appreciated now given the season we are in.

I treasure this increased airtime to call my loved ones.”

A businessman from Gembu in Taraba State, Levi Donald, said he was happy to notice an increment in his credits when he recharged in the last three days and welcomed the promo. Agnes Ogwuche, a Jalingo-based student noted that she recharged N200 and got N600.

With this, she is now making more calls and using the chance to reach out to people she’s lost touch with.

From Plateau State, a businessman, Chijioke Ameh,

enthused: “I am very happy with Glo Overload. I hope it is forever! The promo has increased my data usage and enabled me to carry out more activities on my phone as I enjoy browsing with my phone.”

Onitsha-based Akinyemi Phillips expressed surprise that he was enjoying more call time than he paid for.

Teslim Babalola said: “Wow! Glo is really the people’s network. I bought the N2,000 data plan, I realised that instead of getting 350MB, I received 2.5GB. A friend of mine said he bought the N5,000 data plan and got a whopping 12GB. That is simply awesome.”

Madam Felicia Olusola on her part said, “My daughter sends me two thousand Naira recharge vouchers every month. At the beginning of this month, I realised that instead of N2, 000, I had N6, 000 in my account. Thanks to Glo.” Olaide Bamgbade enthused on the promo, “I never believed in any promo until now because there have been several claims that I could not verify. This Overload promo is different. I read about the launch of the promotions and deliberately loaded N1,000. I got N3,000 instantly.

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Parable of a lost opportunity Success Nuggets

God who has brought me this far will not let me down.” That was very striking, not just for the show host, but for the audience as well

Victor Okwudiri 08037674300 (SMS only)

Y

inka began his music career at the age of eight. He started with entertaining himself and family members indoors. By the time he was 11, most ceremonies in his environs were not complete without a feel of his sensational voice. He won one award after another, and travelled wider than many his age, simply because of his voice.

As he grew older, he looked forward to a professional career in music.

Then, the opportunity came calling one day, when he was 23. An indigenous beverage company put up a reality TV show for talents to showcase what they’ve got. The ultimate price was N10 million, a brand new SUV and a recording deal. For Yinka, that would give a quantum leap to his life’s dream of becoming an accomplished musician, and change his family’s placement in the social strata.

The ‘trick’ of the show, however, was that after performances by two contenders, a certain amount representing that particular stage of the competition was placed before the two contenders, with the advice that whoever among the two was not sure he/she would be victorious at

that stage should take the money.

The results would be displayed after the contestant had taken the money.

The implication of taking the money, however, was that, the recipient would be out of the game, even if it turned out that he/she was the actual winner. That would automatically qualify the other contender for the next stage. On the other hand, if the contestant who declined to go for the money turned out to be the loser, he/ she would go home with nothing, irrespective of the stages he/she had scaled through. That made refusal to opt for the money risky, but did not make opting for the money any less risky. In fact, it was a dilemma of sorts. If none of them decided to take the money, the results would be displayed and determine who qualifies to the next stage.

Yinka scaled through each stage to the final stage. He was extremely good. However, it appeared there was something more to his success at each stage than his performance.

Each time he was asked by the show host whether he thought he would

emerge the winner at that stage or will rather go for the money, he confessed the positive – that he was going to emerge the winner. The most striking thing, however, was that he placed his faith on God. As a matter of fact, at an advanced stage of the competition, when the performances were too close to call, the show host asked him, “Yinka, this is a close one. What do you think?” His reply – “God who has brought me this far will not let me down.” That was very striking, not just for the show host, but for the audience as well. With that statement, opinion polls as to who was likely to emerge the winner favoured him so much.

The D-day came – the grand finale of the competition. Yinka was up against Uche. They were both good.

After their performances, N2 million was placed before them, and they were given 10 seconds to go for the money. Yinka could hear his heart pounding. He was shaken by Femi’s performance that evening. Little did he realise that Femi was even more scared of his (Yinka’s) performance. If only the heart was a show glass.

“Should I take the money? Should I risk going home with nothing?

Which risk is lesser – going home with the N2 million, only to realise I actually would have gone with N10 million, or aiming tenaciously at N10 million and going home with nothing?” Yinka’s thoughts ran at the speed of light.

He was still asking himself questions when he was jolted by the countdown.

Entrepreneurship The Big Picture Julian Atufunwa 08032810713 (SMS only)

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od finished the foundation of creation, but did not finish creating. He left it for man to continue from where He stopped.

Inside the creation lies the principles of development.

He created the trees (wood); he did not make furniture. He created the wool; he did not make cloth. Man was wired in such a way that he could think and create from the original creation. Man is an amazing creature, we are creators, we are entrepreneurs!

What Is Entrepreneurship: It is the process of bringing into existence things that were not in existence before in order to meet the needs of people. No nation will thrive without entrepreneurs. Until our attention shifts from natural resources to human resources management, we may not make a headway as a people, as a nation. Human capacity building is key to the development of any nation; empowering one person to maximise his potential can create a great change.

Ralph Waldo Emerson puts it this way: Every man is an impossibility until he is born. Having said that, you need to understand that life is a personal responsibility. No government can totally solve all the problems of its citizens. Writing an exam is your

personal responsibility. Stepping out of penury and poverty into a life of abundance is your choice. We all must take active part. If I make a decision, you make a decision and another does too, to think for ourselves we would be able to bring about massive change.

What you do for yourself counts more than what government will do for you.

The quickest route to wealth is starting a business. Learn to sell something. Whether we realise it or not, everybody is selling something.

To start You need to sit down and list out your values. It is wise to build a business around your values. You need not do what the other person is doing, no matter how successful it is.

Find your niche. VALUES are your beliefs and what is important to your life. Examples of values are creativity, happiness, learning, love, family, fun, adventure, ministry, health, freedom, contribution, beauty, humour. The list goes on. If you look critically into these words, you will find words that appeal to you. Like one of my mentors once said, some people need adventure to thrive. This kind of people will be bored to death by routine. If they build lives around routine, they kill themselves in a bid to earn a living.

You are designed to be blessed while doing what you enjoy doing (parable of the dollar). What is it you would love to do even if money was not involved? Find that out and build a business around your personal values and gifts.

Business Ideas you could start with little or no capital

I went for a shoot last week and was charged N500 for just a soft copy of my picture. I started doing some calculations in my mind. You don’t need too much capital to start this Day care: this could be great for housewives. You could start from your apartment. Remember, in any business what you need is not a shop or warehouse. What you need first is customers.

Tutoring: A friend of mine started gathering children for lessons during the holiday period for a token of N50 per child daily. That may sound small but today she owns a school.

Photography: I went for a shoot last week and was charged N 500. for just a soft copy of my picture. I started doing some calculations in my mind.

You don’t need too much capital to start this.

Music lessons: You could teach people how to operate musical instruments, like keyboard, piano, guitar, flute etc.

Laundry Services: Laundry business is very lucrative. Learn for a few days or go and work for a while with dry cleaners. You can learn on the job and eventually set up your own laundry business.

Catering/Hospitality: One interesting thing about this business is that customers pay in advance. You use their money to cook for them.

World / News

Tobacco, big threat to Nigerian economy CO NTINUED F R O M PAGE 27

ria? There was a time when you went to airports and found designated smoking areas. But now, they have removed such designations completely and the airports are now going completely smoke-free because people have discovered that designated smoking areas don’t work.

What will you now describe as a smoking area?

The smoking area can be the smokers’ houses where people don’t frequent. What we are concerned about is a total ban on smoking in public places. You can smoke in your private homes provided that that act is not impairing the health of other citizens like your children. Abroad, you can go outside your apartment to smoke, maybe on the street.

Would this strategy be considered in Nigeria?

You can go to the open places. When we say public places, we are referring to enclosed public places and areas like parks and gardens. If someone decides to light up on the street, that is an extremely open place but even at that, in some countries there is a caveat. In some countries, you cannot just step out of the airport and light up; you have to give a specific distance from the airport because whatever you are puffing directly at the door will be blown back to the airport by the wind. So those laws are there and they are working. People have started to see what works here and what does not work.

Can you name some of these countries that have achieved this 100 per cent smoke-free status?

There are several countries that are what you can call 100 per cent smoke-free. There are states in the United States; South Africa; Kenya is doing very well and is a model. Uganda also is employing it. Some of these African countries are going smoke-free whereas the Giant of Africa is still debating whether or not we should have a National Tobacco Control law. This is sad.

Recently, your organisation criticised the Nigeria Police for partnering British American Tobacco Nigeria in training the police to implement the Lagos Smoke-Free Public Places Law. Can you explain?

It’s sad that the the Nigeria Police allowed itself to be used by the police. We are creating a law, for instance, to fight the activities of smugglers. Now the smugglers are calling for a conference and inviting the police to teach and train them on how to arrest smugglers. I think that is a complete joke.

It is unfortunate that it happened.

But should your organisation wait for the training to happen before condemning it?

The best we could do was to raise the alarm and that we have done. We are also going further; we have a new Inspector General of Police whom we are engaging to make sure that this kind of scenario does not happen again. This is completely against the spirit of Article 5.3 that I made mention of, which is very important. The government should make sure that the tobacco industry is not allowed to interfere in any way with government. What they did was direct interference.

They called the police to train them on how to enforce the Smoking in public places law. How can that be?

Now looking at Nigeria, our law enforcement strength is inadequate. If the police will enforce this law, how can they do a thorough job?

You know, I am not a pessimist; I am one of those people you can call ‘extreme optimists’ and I am still very optimistic about Nigeria. When the Federal Road Safety Commission wanted to enforce the compulsory use of seat belts, we heard this kind of skepticism. People said how many are they and how can they enforce it but you know today my brother that they succeeded. Tobacco control is about citizens’ rights; we want citizens to know that there is a law that is backing you up to tell somebody that you cannot smoke here. That is the environment we want to create. We also want smokers to know that they have to respect the rights of people.

Does your organisation have the statistics of deaths caused by tobacco smoking in Nigeria?

What we have is that the smoking rate in Nigeria is currently above 5.5 per cent. That is a very conservative estimate. If you check that percentage in over 160 million people, you will know that it is a huge number. Scientists have also made us know that half of regular smokers are likely to die of smoking-related diseases and there is actually an upsurge of such illnesses in Nigeria as we speak in terms of cancer of the lungs and the rest. That alone is alarming enough for the Nigerian government to wake up. The Lagos State government did a study and that study was carried out in only 11 hospitals. They discovered that one person dies a day as a result of smoking related illnesses out of the 11 hospitals they carried out the research. If you should extrapolate that on the landscape of Lagos where you have several thousands of hospitals, you could imagine the number of people that are dying.

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31

Politics SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

The Sunday Interview

Mamman: APC is a party of dissidents, deserters and defectors p.32-33

Interview

Ebong: It’s wrong to say Jonathan is weak p.38 Ihedioha

Amosun

Folarin

Elechi

Wike

Agbaje

States as theatres of war

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ith the conduct of the governorship primaries in many states in the past weeks, the stage seems set for the battle before the main elections as many of the primaries are enmeshed in one crisis or another.

While some aspirants walked out of the venues, others complained of lack of transparency and outright manipulations and giving strong considerations to pitching tent with the opposition. Yet a number of the aggrieved aspirants are also considering legal options.

Biyi Adegoroye biyi.fire@yahoo.com 08033024007 © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Protests over figures in Imo Though Chief Emeka Ihedioha, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives was announced winner of the People’s Democratic Party governorship primaries in Imo State last Tuesday, the result of that exercise is a subject of a controversy, following the discovery of inconsistencies in the computation of votes and allocation of figures to the aspirants.

In this report, our correspondents in some of the volatile states appraise the primaries, grievances of the aspirants and the implications on the fortunes of the party in both the governorship and the presidential elections While the issue is being resolved at the highest level of the party leadership, who eventually emerges the party’s substantive candidate remains in the realm of speculation, as no certificate of return has yet been issued to any aspirant.

Prior to the election, Chief Emeka Ihedioha and Chief Ikedi Ohakim were tipped for the party ticket. Not many pundits gave Senator Ifeanyi Ararume a chance but as a veteran of governorship primaries, he took the arena by storm with a compelling performance. Little wonder he relentlessly opposes the result of the exercise which he insists he won by a wide margin.

Senator Ararume’s case against Ihedioha may not be swept under the carpet this time round as it was in 2007, because other aspirants in the primaries also feel short-changed and are agitating for the cancellation of the exercise which they are convinced was flawed beyond doubt.

Not even Ohakim who throughout the entire process refused to engage or criticise any PDP governorship aspirant could keep his cool anymore in the face of the prevailing controversy.

Giving evidence of irregularities in computations of the scores, he argued that if the total CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 201

The Sunday

Mamman: APC is a dissidents, deserte Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, spokesman for Northern Elders’ Council, in this interview with ONWUKA NZESHI, appraises the performance of the All Progressives Congress and the position of the NEC on the chances of President Goodluck Jonathan in the next elections What are the thoughts of the Northern Elders’ Forum about President Goodluck Jonathan’s bid to seek re- election?

We have declared our support for the President and Commander in Chief and congratulated him for the nomination by his party, the Peoples Democratic Party and his decision to contest the 2015 presidential election. At all times, you know that the Northern Elders’ Council has remained steadfast in its support for President Goodluck Jonathan and the Vice President, Arc. Namadi Sambo.

Some Nigerians do not think Jonathan should seek re- election because of the worsening insecurity in the country. What do you think about this position?

We have also consistently supported our gallant armed forces and other security agencies and we pray that peace will return to the North-Eastern part of Nigeria. It’s a matter of great concern that a lot of blood has been spilled and our territorial integrity has been under threat but we have at all times believed and remained confident in the capacity of our political leadership to take Nigeria out of this challenge of insecurity. We believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

insurgency and terrorism. It is something that not only Atiku Abubakar has said but all people of goodwill have been calling on the international community to support Nigeria’s quest to overcome the security challenge.

What do you think about the call in some quarters that Jonathan should not have Sambo as his running mate in the forthcoming election?

Our position in the Northern Elders Council is that Arc. Namadi Sambo is our leader in the North- West and we have pledged full support for him at all times.

We have been consistent in this support because we believe that the President and the Vice President have created a solid tag team that will overrun any opposition in the next election. We believe that there is no need to change a winning formula that has been tested and proven to work.

The Vice President has

Do you think the crisis in the North-East has overwhelmed Nigeria?

No. The crisis cannot overwhelm Nigeria, but it has now metamorphosed into a serious security challenge which demands collective efforts of all Nigerians to tackle irrespective of religion or political party affiliation. We should not take politics out of the security challenge. We in the Northern Elders Council believe that there should be collective resolution of all Nigerians to support Mr. President so that by the grace of God, we can put this present security challenge behind us.

Is former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s call for international support against insurgency proper?

Well, you know that terrorism is a global challenge and therefore the international community at all times, either at bilateral or multilateral level will collaborate to address the issue. It is no longer an issue that a country can address in isolation. So I believe that perhaps what he is saying is that, there should be more international support for Nigeria’s fight against

Mamman

been an asset politically to the President and Nigeria as a whole. He has shown a high measure of integrity, humility, loyalty and technocratic skill in all assignments given to him. You cannot deny people their rights to express themselves but I can assure you that in the North, those calling for Sambo to be dropped are in the minority.

Most people in the North subscribe to and fully support our position that Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo has added value to governance and made the North proud.

What do you have to say about the ACF which said that power must return to the North in 2015 and that Jonathan and Sambo must be swept away at the polls?

The ACF is the umbrella body of all northern in-

Kukah

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y Interview

a party of ers and defectors terest groups but by its mandate and charter, it is supposed to be a non-political organisation. The North has never had one political tendency throughout our national history.

Even in the First Republic, we had the Northern People’s Congress and we also had the Northern Elements Progressive Union. In the Second Republic, we had the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), People’s Redemption Party (PRP) and the Great Nigeria People’s Party (GNPP). So we are highly expressive as a people.

But with all due respects, we also believe that we should pursue and articulate the interest of the North in a manner that will benefit the larger interest of our people. We think that coming from the background of history with the North as a partner to the South-South and South-East before the Constitutional Conferences that led to Nigeria’s independence in 1960 and after independence; this has been the critical pillar of stability in all previous Republics including this current dispensation. We do not believe that we should alter such type of fundamental arrangement which can invariably destabilize the democratic process in Nigeria.

Some people in the North say that Namadi Sambo is not popular and hasn’t won election even in his ward, so why should he be retained?

No, you don’t use primordial indices to determine

a national political calculation; otherwise we would not have had Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as President. But even those advancing this type of logic should know that it is a distorted logic. Largely if you look at APC, it is not a political party. Like I always say, they are an aggregate of people bound by hate and resentment. If you use political algebra to express the character of the APC, I can advance a theory which I call the three Ds: Dissidents, Deserters and Defectors.

These are the three components of the group.

In other words, I am saying that the APC is made up of those who deserted; those who defected and the dissidents from other political parties. So, APC is not a political party.

It is the dissident arm of the PDP. What is your position on current political developments in the country?

I am a very strong supporter of a two-party system, and it’s very good for our democracy and development because it minimizes centrifugal tendencies. In a multi-cultural and multi-religious society like ours, there is need for equilibrium for the system to continue as a going concern. When IBB (Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida) started it, many people did not understand the wisdom behind it. The two-party system in Nigeria is central IBB’s political doctrine.

Fundamentally, there are no differences between PDP and APC. This is because of cross party incursion, fluidity and mobility of members. In fact, APC is not a political party or movement but an aggregate of individuals bound by resentment, hate and anger. It will consume itself by its own internal contradictions. 80 percent of APC is PDP. It’s the dissident arm of the PDP. The APC is unwholesome with a façade of unity. If you break down its membership in political arithmetic, you will see that it’s zero.

How is it zero?

Ok the composition of APC is made of Defectors, Deserters and Dissidents. APC is the whole = 100% Defectors = 65%, Deserters 25% and Dissidents 10% y = Total of the Integral Party Whole y = x a. X = (D + D + D). a = APC 65 + 25 + 1010 y = 100 100 Ans is y = 0 The biggest block in APC is defunct New PDP or PDP. There are no opposition politicians in APC; they cannot offer Nigeria anything other than their usual menu and recipe - violence, threat and intimidation.

True democrats and true men cannot be speaking of fire and brimstone.

There is an obvious fear of post-election violence, what is your taken on this?

On March 13 this year, on the eve of Ekiti gubernatorial elections, Asiwuju Bola Timubu at an APC a campaign rally called on the APC cadre to adhere to their oath of Rig and Roast. He wanted to ‘Agbekoyanise’ them.

You remember in the 60’s during operation wet ee, when there was complete mayhem in the South-West. There were some hunters called Agbekoya, who made the old Western Region ungovernable. A leader must at all times moderate his utterances, be more

circumspect, responsible and accountable.

The United States and European Union berated him for reckless and inciting comments.

The language of violence is more with the opposition. Finally there was the governorship election in Ekiti and PDP won clean and square. APC was defeated and humiliated at the polls. The result shut them up instead of licking their wounds, they came up with cock and bull stories called stomach infrastructure.

If the people of Ekiti say no to violence the rest of Nigeria will say the same. Ekiti is the intellectual bastion of the Yoruba nation; it’s insulting to call and castigate Ekitis because they reject APC at the poll. So tell me, who are Apostles of threat and violence. It’s in APC you have professional serial riggers there. In fact, seeded riggers from 1999 to 2015, it’s either their way or the highway.

The APC said PDP is dead and buried in the North and people are afraid to campaign for Jonathan.

The North is a big entity in the Nigeria federation, we were never politically monolithic; we have deep and profound political history, relationship and alliances with the people of South-South and South-East. It has been so since pre-independence, First Republic, Second Republic till date. It is a time tested marriage that has been the bedrock of Nigerian democracy and stability. The far North and the middle belt have the same sense of purpose. It was cemented by President Shehu Shagari, when he visited the tomb of Senators J.S. Tarka in 1982, where he released hundreds of pigeons symbolising the political unity of the North. That is the holy political matrimony that makes us to support President Goodluck Jonathan. Four years in the life of a nation is nothing. We must learn to respect each other and be statesmanly at all times.

Our Democracy has come of age, when you have APC rally in Port-Harcourt Stadium, Ameachi, Kwankwaso, Buhari, Tinubu, Atiku were all there waving broom and sloganeering in peaceful atmosphere without threat or rancor, the same will happen in the North, where you will find Mukhari Shagari, Yusufu Mamman and others supporting President Jonathan. I can assure you it will be done without violence, because the North has always been pluralistic in its political expressions. Only anarchists and apostles of violence will say that, but I can assure you any day, any time Jonathan goes campaigning in the North, he will receive the biggest tumultuous rally of his campaign. APC is like a man who wants equity in marriage with visitation to a brothel.

Do you think President Jonathan will win 2015 elections?

Absolutely, he will win with wide a margin across the country. You will be surprised with the way people will throng his rallies in the North and how their support will also translate into massive vote and endorsement.

Across the country he will win comfortably.

What happened in the National Assembly made people very worried that it’s not a good man for democracy.

You see, democracy is not a substitute for law and order. Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal is a fine gentleman, with excellent pedigree that has made many of us proud. However, he got it wrong right from the word go by aligning with opposition, in particular with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu without condition. So Bola became the new choirmaster of the National Assembly. What he territorially lost to the PDP in the South-West, he wants to redeem in the National Assembly. Speaker Tambuwal prior to his defection was in the PDP, the 10 per cent of total aggregate of APC. Now he stepped up his game to join the defectors rank of 65 per cent. He knows what he is bargaining for.

There is so much dishonesty and fraudulent attempt to dress up pseudo-ideological legitimacy as progressives. There is nothing progressive about the APC but hate and confusion. With or without Jonathan in 2015 general elections, it will disintegrate. It has no clear ideology or concrete agenda for change, transformation or alleviating our contemporary challenges. The worst form of corruption is personalisation and abuse of power.

Many of them are delusional with false messianic traits. The secondary we attend, we did not know who built them, but we attend these schools. Now I ask, why should Rabiu Kwankwaso write Kwakwasiyya on public school buildings?

Kano has a long history of political radicalism in Nigeria from poetry to partisan politics. From Aminu Kano, Tanko Yakasai, Mudi Sipikin, Muazu Hadejia, Dahiru Yahaya, Naibi Wali, to Dandatti Abdulkadir, the struggle was best exemplified by the tradition of liberation and resistant against imperialism, colonialism, feudalism and native administration.

That is from the vantage point of history. All the people mentioned combined scholarship with political activism. NEPU was a mass movement anchored on enlightenment and intellectualism. So in this regard and from this tradition and trajectory, where do you situate Kwakwasiyya? There is a difference between radicalism and rascality.

It is also important to note that this issue of impunity and disrespect to the doctrine of party supremacy started around 2001. When we had three political parties at the time the Alliance for Democracy, the All Peoples Party and the PDP, I was the National Chairman of the AD, we had six governors including Lagos. There was problem between Bola Tinubu and his Deputy Kofoworola Bucknor and he locked her out of Council Chambers and also her official residence. She is an elegant and graceful lady, so she sat on a chair in front of the Council Chambers. Photo -journalists were made to take her picture, with a sponsored advertorial few days later, screaming: The Crying Grand Ma. Consequently, we had an emergency meeting of the party including the late Sen. Abraham Adesanya, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, late Chief Bola Ige, Chief Chukuemeka Ezeife, Udenta Udenta, late Sen. Bassey Ekpo, Chief Olu Falae to prevail on Tinubu all to no avail. Her official residence at Bourdillon is what he has converted to his private residence today. Tell me, where is integrity, accountability or rule of law?

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States as theatres of war

Obanikoro C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

number of votes cast as contained in the ballot boxes were 1,017 and the total number of votes recorded for aspirants is 1038, where then did the surplus of 21 votes come from?

Evidently, zoning was quite an issue in the primaries as 27 out of the 28 governorship aspirants were either from Owerri or Okigwe zone, both of which have valid arguments supporting their rights to the Government House in 2015.

As expected, the governorship bid of the only aspirant from Orlu zone, Chief Chris Brown Amadi was dead on arrival with the incumbent Rochas Okorocha and former governor Achike Udenwa both of Orlu extraction having served a total of 12 years out of the16 years since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

The fallout of the primaries here, observers said, might give Governor Okorocha a brighter chance, having recovered his party’s ticket from his son-in-law last Thursday in Owerri.

For one thing, he enjoys incumbency factor and for another, his popularity in Orlu zone which has 12 local governments also count for him.

Since Owerri zone, the homestead of Ihedioha, which has eight council areas has not produced the governor since 1999, the duo of the deputy speaker and Capt. Emmanuel Ihenacho of the All Progressives Grand Alliance are favoured this time if the charter of equity is anything to go by. However, there are indications that both of them would split the votes from the nine local governments there, while Okorocha may coast home with votes from the 12 council areas in Orlu zone. Only a quick resolution of the current impasse and ability of PDP to obtain the support of Ohakim and Ararumen can secure the eight local governments in Okigwe zone for the party.

Lagos: Obanikoro goes to court On the surface, the coast is clear on who will be the governorship standard bearer of the APC and that of the PDP in Lagos State.

In the APC, Akinwunmi Ambode, a former Accountant-General of the state won the primaries with 3, 735 votes after defeating 11 other aspirants.

Unlike the primaries of the APC that appears a done deal, that of the PDP still has smoke around it with erstwhile Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, still pressing buttons and alleging that the election was rigged in favour of the declared winner, Jimi Agbaje.

Agbaje emerged winner of the election after polling 432 of the the 836 votes cast, to defeat four others including Obanikoro who came

Chukwu

second with 343 votes. Already, there is war of words between both of them over the appropriateness of the election or otherwise.

Obanikoro, who stormed out of the venue of the primaries while the votes were being counted, fingered both a former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Chief Bode George and former Minister of Works, Adeseye Ogunlewe for what he considered a manipulation of the process.

Obanikoro said: “The entire primary was a sham. I still cannot comprehend how accredited delegates of 806 will turn out to be 868. To be honest with you, with the benefit of hindsight, you can tell that the outcome was predetermined.

“The path of fraudulent electoral success is condemnable and we intend to fight this.

There is an opportunity to appeal and I hope the party will do the right thing. Bode George has been the major problem as far as this party is concerned and there is no doubt in my mind that he supervised this electoral malpractice,” he said.

Defending his victory, Agbaje challenged Obanikoro to speak the truth about the socalled excess votes reportedly recorded during the primaries, explaining that in the course of the primaries, the six aspirants agreed that there was a clerical omission in the originally announced tally of 806, as it had left out some ad hoc and statutory delegates from a few local governments, and those should be reckoned and allowed to vote.

Agbaje through his Director of Media and Publicity, Felix Oboagwina, said “Obanikoro and the other aspirants and their agents were party to this agreement, In fact, Obanikoro left his seat, along with the others, when the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Senator Seidu Kumo, called attention to the clerical omission.

There and then, they mandated the committee to add these omitted delegates to the total tally.

The Chairman of the Committee felt no need to announce this new figure publicly, since all the contestants willingly endorsed the arrangement.”

A new twist was however added to the whole scenario on Friday when Obanikoro filed a suit against the party at a Federal High Court in Lagos, saying that his decision to approach the court was to urge the party to expedite action on the petition he wrote to the national headquarters of the party to cancelled and conduct fresh primaries in the state.

As it stands, if the PDP sticks with the Agbaje rhythm, then the battle for the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, will be more of a personality clash between Agbaje and Ambode on one side and that of George’s and Bola Tinubu on the other side.

Speaking on efforts to keep the PDP house in

Ambode

order, George said, “All those who lost the elections are our boys. We will as one big family go and fight the enemy. Let us deliver Lagos and tell the people that there is a better alternative for them.”

Already, there are insinuations that Obanikoro may likely dump the party but not for the APC. According to some of his loyalists, the worst case scenario for Obanikoro is suspension by the PDP and the party will eventually suffered for it.

For both the PDP and APC, the battle for 2015 appears close to calls and the unfolding scenarios in the days to come will beam more light on the chances of both parties.

Of Ondo and parallel primaries Since the return of Governor Olusegun Mimiko to the Peoples Democratic Party, the party in Ondo State has been engulfed by simmering crisis. This led to the emergence of two state executives of the party and in the same vein parallel primaries and candidates for National Assembly elections.

The gladiators in the crisis are billionaire businessman, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim who is the leader of the erstwhile Ebenezer Alabi-led State Working Committee and that of the state governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko who is now leading the mainstream of the party. Both factions operated from separate party secretariats.

Alabi had conducted delegates’ election, primaries for the House of Assembly and was on the verge of conducting primaries for the Senate and House of Representatives when he resigned his position. But his resignation did not end the crisis as other members of the faction still went ahead to conduct factional primaries of the party.

The Ibrahim-led faction predicated its action on the ruling of an Abuja High Court which prevented the dissolution of the State Working Committee by the National Working Committee and gave it the mandate to conduct the primaries for the party. The court specifically said the tenure of the Alabi-led executive expires in March 2016.

However, the executive of the party led by Clement Faboyede, which emerged from Mimiko’s team, is not only recognized by the national leadership of the party but also by the Independent National Electoral Commission which witnessed the elections along with security agencies. They also attended its primaries since the constitution of the party confers the leadership of the party on the state governor.

This acrimony and division in the party put its chances in the balance, as the opposition APC has thrown its doors opened to all leaders who are uncomfortable with the developments. Though no governorship election will be held in the state in February next year,

Mimiko, despite its obvious advantage, is appealing to the aggrieved members to sheath the swords and join in moving the party forward, to be able to deliver one million votes for President Goodluck Jonathan.

Though he acknowledged the challenges posed by the dichotomy along former members of the LP and PDP, Mimiko promises to “deliver handsomely for Mr. President. We will deliver three senators, nine House of Representatives and 26 House of Assembly members.

It will be general and phenomenon routing of the opposition in the state.”

Whether or not the appeal of the governor will calm the fray nerves and restore the party to winning elections will be seen in few days.

The main opposition party, APC is waiting in the wings to cash on the internal wrangling in the PDP. Ogun and the danger of a divided house With 12 governorship aspirants, the Ogun PDP went into the primaries with a divided house, and only three governorship aspirants turned up for the exercise. A former House of Representatives Speaker and frontline gubernatorial aspirant, Dimeji Bankole, and eight others had boycotted the primaries, apparently relying on the directive by the party’s National Working Committee that the gubernatorial primary election had been cancelled.

Notwithstanding their absence, the election was conducted by the Chief Adebayo Dayoled state executive committee of the party, with the support of Prince Buruji Kashamu, who appeared to have outsmarted other leaders in the battle for control of the party structure in the state. Former Group Managing Director of Gateway Holdings Limited, Prince Gboyega Isiaka, who contested the 2011 governorship on the platform of Peoples Party of Nigeria, got the ticket, polling 705 votes to beat two contestants.

Bankole faulted the process, saying it was in defiance of the NWC’s decisions. He vowed to pursue his governorship aspiration on the PDP platform. The former speaker is believed to be banking on the influence of certain power brokers in Abuja for the actualisation of his ambition. There are growing speculations that Bankole will be eventually be fielded as his candidature had already been ratified by the Presidency.

But Kashamu would have none of that and he is fiercely opposed to Bankole. The PDP chieftain and his strategists believe that Isiaka is the party’s best bet for the 2015 governorship. To them, with Isiaka’s candidacy, the PDP would play on several factors and would benefit immensely from the agitation by Ogun West zone to produce the state governor for the CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

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States as theatres of war

Alao-Akala

Ajimobi

Okorocha

first time in 38 years.

With the SDP actively promoted by former Governor Olusegun Osoba and his political associates who defected from APC, many observers had expected the state deputy governor, Prince Segun Adesegun, to pick the party’s governorship ticket. But findings revealed that the SDP is not really interested in Adesegun’s candidature and even, Sanusi’s selection was only a stop-gap measure to conclude negotiations with interested aspirants from other political parties. The party is most likely to substitute his name for stronger candidate.

This is the dilemma in Ogun and if the current development is anything to go by, the ruling APC which has given Governor Ibikunle Amosun the ticket for a second term, might have an upper hand in the governorship elections.

where the primary was held.

Following the disgrace of two votes announced against the name of Alao-Akala, which he said was a ‘mere gimmick’ because he was not in attendance, the former governor has formally defected to the Labour Party and was adopted as its governorship candidate, while the initial aspirants stepped down for him.

Chief Sarafadeen Alli (a lawyer and AlaoAkala’s Secretary to State Government), Chief Nurudeen Akinyo and Comrade Olu Abiala who had earlier declared to contest the governorship election, were allotted different slots.

While Alli was chosen as the deputy governor, the other two were given senatorial slots.

With the development, political watchers are of the view that the incumbent Governor Abiola Ajimobi might find second term difficult to get because many of the founding members of the LP in Oyo were APC members who parted ways with Ajimobi. With the coalesce of the teeming supporters of Alao-Akala and the adversaries of the government, the outcome is left to imagination.

The defection of Alao-Akala has also been seen as a serious blow to the emergence of Folarin and the chance of the PDP winning the 2015 election.

Folarin and his loyalists appear to be the sole owners of the PDP for now as he has no support of any of the other aspirants. The Abuja court case being pursued by Seyi Makinde is another stumbling block on the way of the party as it might not be palatable if the court eventually declares the Monday’s primary void and unconstitutional.

That Folarin and Ajimobi are both from Ibadan may be another serious factor that can determine the chances of both the PDP and the APC in the negative. Both gladiators will have to share the votes of the 11 local governments in Ibadan.

Ladoja’s Accord Party has continued to gain ground with its tentacles being extended to other zones of the state in addition to Ibadan where it had influence in the 2011 election.

It won seven House of Assembly seats, now reduced to five and four House of Representatives. Ladoja hopes and is working assiduously to increase the number as he guns for the Agodi Government House where he was schemed out in 2007.

ers, local government chairmen and coordinators of the development centres. However, PDP crisis in the state had begun with the endorsement of Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu as the consensus candidate against the wishes of the stakeholders.

Governor Elechi and other prominent sons and daughters of the state have not made any pronouncement on which way to follow and they are still in the ruling party PDP. While Umahi sees his emergence as divine ordination to be the next governor of the state, as compensation for his service, Elechi and his team are not comfortable with the defeat and some loyalists of the governor have defected to the Labour Party. They were so aggrieved by the outcome of the primaries.

The defection immaterial, PDP still remains the party to beat in the forthcoming election, because the LP has no foundation in the state.

With barely two months to the general election, it will be hard for the party to build a formidable structure for the poll.

A former deputy governor of the state, Prof.

Chigozie Ogbu, said that he still remain a member of PDP despite the fact that some have defected to LP, insisting that the current division in the party, the PDP remains the only solid platform in the state.

Alao-Akala defection causes stir in Oyo Thirteen PDP governorship aspirants obtained the N3m Expression of Interest forms at the party secretariat, Mokola, Ibadan, Oyo State capital. One after the other, all of them also struggled to obtain the N11m national nomination form at the Wadata Plaza, Abuja.

But before the purchase of the forms even at the local level, the public had been variously fed with the news that one of the aspirants had already been anointed by the powers-that-be at Abuja to be the party’s flag bearer and that the congress was just a formality.

The 13 aspirants who slugged it out amongst one another until Folarin emerged are: former governor of the state, Otunba Adebayo AlaoAkala from Ogbomoso North Local Government Area; Senator Ayo Adeseun from Surulere and Ogo Oluwa Local Government Areas; and Engineer Femi Babalola from Afijio Local Government Area.

Others are former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, Professor Taoheed Adedoja from Ibadan South West LGA; former deputy governor of the state, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarunmi from Ibadan North LGA; Dr. Isaac Owolabi from Ibadan North East LGA; and Professor Soji Adejumo from Ibadan North West LGA. Also included are Engineer Seyi Makinde, Alhaji Kehinde Olaosebikan and Dr. Azeez Adeduntan, Elder Wole Oyelese (former Special Duties Minister), Alhaji Taofeek Arapajaall from Ibadan.

When the result was announced around 4.30 pm last Monday, the rumour which had been so thick in the air for long turned reality. While Folarin polled 167 votes, Alao-Akala polled two, Adejumo four, Gbolarumi 12, and Adeduntan three.

Thunderous jubilation attended the announcement as Senator Abbah Aji, who led the electoral committee from Abuja, announced Folarin as the winner. It was as if no other loyalists of any other contestant were in the big hall

PDP remains unstoppable in Ebonyi.

The emergence of deputy governor of Ebonyi State, Mr. Dave Umahi as PDP flag bearer as against the candidate of Governor Martins Elechi shocked many bookmakers in the state. Before his election as deputy governor, he was the party’s state chairman, a position which had enabled him to build a solid political structure.

He had utilised the opportunity to build a lasting relationship both the state commission-

Crisis in Uyo Twenty-two of the 23 PDP governorship aspirants in Akwa Ibom State rejected the outcome of the primary election that produced former secretary to state government, Udom Emmanuel, as the winner of the election held last Monday in Uyo. Udom was declared the winner of the primary with 1, 201 votes.

The other aspirants walked out of the newly constructed international stadium, venue of the primaries in protest. They alleged massive irregularities and lack of transparency. The aspirants were two former deputy governors, Nsima Ekere and Patrick Ekpotu; former Nigerian Ambassador to Russia and the Belarus, Assam Assam (SAN); Senator Helen Esuene; and Prof. Richard King.

Others include Larry Esin, Benjamin Okoko; former Commissioner for Rural Development, Effoing Abia; former Attorney-General and Justice Commissioner and Ekpenyong Ntekim.

The aggrieved aspirants said they had no confidence in the process leading to the primary election, alleging that there was no proper accreditation of delegates, even as they claimed that delegates in the election were “fake”.

Ekere, who spoke on behalf of the protesting aspirants, described the outcome of the election that produced Udom as charade, saying “22 out of 23 governorship aspirants cannot be wrong”.

Callings for the cancellation of the poll, he explained that doing so was in the best interest

Politics

of the party.

The electoral panel returning officer, Prince Bola Oyebowale, and the state chairman of the party, Paul Ekpo, advised the aggrieved aspirants to register their protests with the electoral appeal panel as stipulated in the constitution of the party. However, Governor Godswill Akpabio described the process as clearly transparent and commended the delegates for peacefully conducting themselves throughout the exercise.

For his part, Emmanuel attributed the successful conduct of the election to the effective leadership of Akpabio, saying that he provided a template of good governance which has endeared him to the entire people of the state.

However, if the agitation of the aggrieved aspirants is not well handled, there are indications that the opposition party, the APC may cash in and reap from the crisis. Already, one of the leading aspirants, Mr. Larry Esin, is said to have accepted to deputise for the APC governorship candidate and a defector from the PDP, Mr. Umana Okon Umana.

Sunday New Telegraph gathered that about 18 of the aspirants are already negotiating with APC to cross over with their supporters to the APC. Interestingly, the spirants are said to be heavy weight politicians in their own rights and cannot be shoved aside, a development observers believe portends dangers for the PDP. No longer at ease in Rivers The emergence of Mr. Nyesom Wike as the governorship candidate of the PDP, has ushered in another round of crisis in the party instead of readying it for the February governorship election. The old complaint that an upland governor in 2015 will spell doom for riverine dwellers continues to reverberate within the party and across the state.

Some aggrieved aspirants, mainly from the riverine areas have called for the cancellation of the primaries, alleging that Wike and the Felix Obuah-led executive hijacked proceedings to favour Wike.

The aggrieved aspirants, numbering 17 are Prof. Don Baridom; Mrs. Biobele Odesola; Mr. Dumo Lulu-Briggs, Hon. Oseleye Dennis Ojuka, Alabo Paworiso Samuel-Horsfall, Hon. Gabriel Pidomson, Engr. Samson Ngerebara, Hon. Bernard Mikko, Hon. Nimi Walson-Jack, Hon. Odein Ajumogobia (SAN), and Mr. Bekinbo Dagogo-Jack. Others are Chief Atamuno Atamuno, Hon. Tamunosisi Gogo-Jack, Chief Fafaa Dan Princewill, Hon. Tonye Princewill, and Hon. Silva Opusunju.

Shortly after the party announced Wike winner, the governorship aspirants alleged that due process was not followed before the election, as such ‘real election did not take place.”

Major Lancelot Iyanya, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, described Wike’s victory as a “tragic comedy of wickedness by a few persons to enslave Rivers people.” He, however, described the party as “a great house” adding “we will not judge our party by a few vessels of dishonour.”

There are expectations by the aspirants that the national leadership of the party will intervene, and upturn Wike’s victory based on their complaints. But a source from Wike’s camp has said that there is no way Abuja will intervene, because “Wike won squarely because he is the only aspirant that connects with the grassroots.” If the crisis is unresolved, there is the tendency for the aspirants to work against Wike even though he promises to carry everybody along while making his victory speech.

But some of the aspirants, according to a reliable source, have made contacts with Wike on how they can contribute to his victory in 2015. If the number increases before election day, then the APC should get ready for a very tough battle.

Babatope Okeowo, Akure, Kunle Olayeni, Abeokuta, Steve Uzoechi, Owerri, Wale Elegbede, Lagos, Sola Adeyemo, Ibadan, Tony Anichebe, Uyo, Charles Onyekwere, Abakaliki, Emmanuel Masha, Port Harcourt

36

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Politics / Column

What is next when Reps resume on Tuesday?

From the

Green Chamber ternyam@gmail.com

Philip Nyam

M

embers of the House of Representatives are due to reconvene on Tuesday, December 16, after participating in the primaries of their various political parties. Once again, the lower chamber will be a cynosure of all eyes as Nigerians wait with baited breath to see what would transpire in the hallowed chambers.

Since the House adjourned on October 28, the day Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal defected to the All Progressives Congress, the lawmakers have only sat once. Unfortunately, when it convened to deliberate on the request for the extension of emergency rule in the three North-East states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe, the speaker and mostly APC legislators had to force their way into the chambers following a barricade mounted by the police

Obaze

to prevent them from accessing their office.

Of course, all that ensued that fateful day well known to the public. One of the principal activities the House is expected to engage in is the receipt and action on the 2015 Appropriation Bill, which is yet to be submitted by President Goodluck Jonathan. Since the Peoples Democratic Party is calling for the resignation of Tambuwal as speaker and insisting that it will not recognise him as a minority speaker, one wonders if the President would be disposed to submitting the proposed budget to Tambuwal.

The question now is whether there will be an attempt again to prevent Tambuwal from entering the National Assembly on December 16. Because, in spite of the court ruling that status quo ante be maintained pending the determination of the suit filed by Tambuwal, the IGP, Suleiman Abba has refused to acknowledge Tambuwal as the speaker of the House. If the IGP does not change his mind set, he may still mobilise his officers and men to the National Assembly.

Will the IGP reenact the feat of November 20, which has been roundly criticised across the country? Will he recapitulate and wait for the

courts and lawmakers to decide Tambuwal’s fate in the House? What about the lawmakers themselves? Would they be tempted to move against the speaker as it is being rumoured?

The House Standing Orders prohibits debate on any issue that is pending before a court of law. Will the lawmakers allow the course of justice to prevail or will they take laws into their hands by flouting their rules to get the speaker off his seat? In the case of an impeachment plot, can Tambuwal’s opponents garner the required two third requirements?

There is also the pending consideration of the emergency rule extension request sent by then president. Will the House grant this request?

This issue will attract attention. And the big one: the impeachment plot against President Jonathan. Is this going to fly? The purported impeachment of Jonathan has been denied by some lawmakers yet others affirmed that the plot is on course. This knot will be untied on the resumption of the House next Tuesday.

It is a fact that majority of the House members are not happy with their parties for denying them tickets to contest the 2015 elections.

At the just concluded primaries, majority of them failed in their bid to return. So, can this

group of lawmakers be encouraged to do the bidding of their party leaders?

The winners Even as most of the members will wear gloomy faces on return next Tuesday, a handful of them will be smiling following their success at the primaries. Speaker Tambuwal is to fly the APC flag in the governorship election in Sokoto state, while his deputy, Emeka Ihedioha may contest same in Imo state. The result of his election is still being contested by his closest rival, Senator Ifeanyi Ararume who is still insisting that he actually won. Chairman of the House committee on petroleum (downstream), Hon. Dakuku Peterside also clinched the APC gubernatorial ticket for Rivers 2015 ditto the chairman of the committee on marine transport, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi who is the governorship candidate of the PDP for Enugu state. Although, the deputy speaker, Ugwuanyi’s victory is also a subject of contention as the chairman of the senate committee on works, Senator Ayogu Eze is also laying claim to same ticket. However, Ugwuanyi who is Governor Sullivan Chime’s candidate is confident that he will emerge victorious at the end of the day.

The losers As at the last count, 150 members had failed at the primaries of their various parties.

While majority of the lawmakers had wanted to return to the House, a handful of them vied for senate and governorship positions. Those who lost in their bid to contest for governorship in the next February election include the deputy minority leader, Hon. Abdulrahman Suleiman Kawu, Kawu was hopeful to emerge as candidate of the APC for Kano until Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso dealt him a big blow by anointing the deputy governor.

Kawu had to step down and declare support for Dr. Ganduje. Another loser to the governorship bid is the president of the Pan African Parliament and chairman of the House Committee on National Planning, Hon. Bethel Amadi.

Amadi contested the PDP primaries for Imo governorship position and lost. They are some of them whose primaries are inconclusive and are still being awaited. Chairman of the House Committee on FCT, Hon. Emmanuel Jime is aspiring for the governorship ticket of APC in Benue State.

Hon. Mohammed Mutawalle, chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security lost his attempt to secure the PDP ticket for Zamfara governorship position. Similarly, the chairman of the House Committee on ICT, Hon. Ibrahim Gusau who vied for the same ticket also lost out. There are however some like Hon. Abiodun Akinlade who is aspiring for the Ogun PDP ticket. The Ogun State governorship primaries is still mired in controversy as one faction is claiming to have elected a governorship candidate. Akinlade alongside other aspirants including former speaker of the House, Hon. Dimeji Bankole had boycotted it and are insisting that no primaries took place. This will be the colour of the House come next Tuesday.

37

NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

Politics / Analysis

When naira rained on Nigerian Legion Villa Notes emmyanule@yahoo.com

Anule Emmanuel

O

fficers and men of the armed forces are trained to fight and kill. Majority of them indeed join the tough profession at a tender age and so, know virtually nothing other than defending their father land with the mighty weapon, the gun. When they retire, they often discover that there are hardly jobs usually to fit their kind of training.

Retirees from the three services of the Nigerian military, Army, Air Force and the Nigerian Navy therefore, long after the civil war came together under the umbrella body of the Nigerian Legion, operating with one common purpose of protecting the interest of members especially on issues of welfare. The belief generally is that Nigeria’s ex-service men as they are fondly called, unlike their counterpart in Europe and America, live in total deprivation and want as soon as they leave the armed services. While a few of them are perceived to have been forced to retirement due to injuries sustained in battle, others died in active service leaving behind dependents that need care.

Every January 15 is marked as the Armed

Forces and Remembrance Day to honour members of this organisation who fought in the World War I and World War II, those who served and those that are still serving in various peace support operations worldwide as well as those who fought in the Nigerian Civil War. It is usually a day to celebrate both the dead and military living heroes.

Most persons attest to the fact that the day is symbolic since it was on the same date when the Biafran troops surrendered to the Federal troops on 15 January 1970 thus signaling the end of the Nigerian Civil War. For the government and Nigerians, the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration provides an opportunity to soberly reflect on the plight of the dead and the living heroes with a resolve to find a lasting solution to their predicament. During each celebration, the purple emblem is launched to raise funds in support of the Legion.

At the seat of power the presidential villa, participation in helping generate money for the ex-soldiers interestingly comes without an option. How lucky is this group! Every visitor to Aso Rock is compelled to cough out some cash for this purpose.

The kick off of activities for next year’s Armed Forces Day Celebration last Monday

by President Goodluck Jonathan appeared to be a money spinner for the Legion. Last year, the President had also led other dignitaries including former heads of government and the leaders of the National Assembly to raise

about N105million for the group. The fund raised during at that launch was aside from the donations from visitors who paid to obtain the emblem in order to gain access into the Presidential Villa.

But having realised that the target in 2014 was not met mostly due to unredeemed pledges and in order to ensure that as many Nigerians as possible wears the emblem and donate to the course, the President has vowed not to grant audience to any person in the villa who is not wearing the emblem between the day it was launched and January 15, 2015 when activities marking the remembrance event would be rounded off. President Jonathan insists that the emblem would be a requirement for government officials and visitors to gain access to any government establishment nationwide during the period.

Since Monday when the emblem was launched, the directive has been in force.

There are designated points in the villa where every visitor must stop to purchase the purple emblem if he is not wearing one.

Imagine the huge amount that would have been raised so far. Last week had been a busy one. Only the weekly Federal Executive Council meeting did not hold. But visitors trouped in their numbers especially politicians who came to confer with the President as it relates to issues of the 2015 general elections.

Former Minister of Works, Senator Sanusi Dagash also led party leaders from Borno

State on Thursday night to deliberate on how to arrive at a consensus on whom to adopt as the party’s consensus candidate in the state.

They all purchased the emblem at various cost not less than N1,000. Senate President David Mark and the National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party Adamu Muazu were among this week’s visitors during the inauguration of the President Jonathan’s campaign council. The Senate President and the party leaders were not exempted from the presidential directive to wear the emblem.

This week will provide better opportunity for more funds to be raised for the Legion.

Aside the weekly FEC meeting which will hold on Wednesday with the flagging off of President Jonathan’s campaigns, the presidential villa will continue to receive an array of visitors for nocturnal meetings. Imagine how much will be generated during this period!

The Christmas homage which brings to the villa a contingent of religious faithful is another good market moment coming for the ex service men. What they must not fail to do is to make the emblem readily available for sale.

While efforts to raise additional funds for the military retirees continue, it is imperative that the President assist the association with his promise of recovering about N75million unredeemed pledges, government support alone can never be enough do to take care of the numerous needs of the veterans and their families.

‘Abia needs to be liberated’ As various political parties are holding for primaries, what is your perception of governorship election in Abia State next year?

There is a serious plan from the Peoples Democratic Party to impose a candidate on the party and subsequently foist same on Abians. This is not a mere allegation because I witnessed what they called a congress in the state that produced the delegates. It was a farce and a sham.

You are in a different party and you are commenting on the congress held in another party, why that inquisition?

Though I am not a PDP member, as a politician, I will always be sensitive to political happenings in my locality. So to the best of my knowledge and observation, there was nothing like congress that was done in my Okamu, Okon-Aku-Ohafia ward and the entire Abia State. The delegates came out to find disillusionment. The first thing they did was to remove the congress venue from Okamu Secondary School in Okon-Aku Ohafia to Amangwu Ohafia. There, the delegates arrived but the party officials didn’t come. The INEC officials that came felt very frustrated without the presence of officials of the party; the next thing we heard was that a result has been announced, obviously concocted and sent to Umuahia as delegates. That was quite undemocratic. The result was written in a private house. It is obvious that, that was an instruction from the governor; he wanted certain people to be delegates. That was what happened at all the venues where congress was alleged to have taking place.

PDP is not my party, but I’m emphasising this to show Abians that the undemocratic tendencies of the party is what they intend to use and impose a governor on the state come 2015. But I know Abians will vehemently reject that because Abians are already saying no to PDP and Governor T. A. Orji; they are already rejecting the captivity the present government have subjected them to. We cannot continue to be in the bondage of Orji, we want change, a real change that will take Abians away from their sufferings. This is not about political party

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Progressives Peoples Alliance in Abia State, Chief Ndukwe Iko, tells CAMILLUS NNAJI in this interview about the rot in Abia State and the plan by some political parties to unseat Peoples Democratic Party in the state

Iko

affiliation; just take a ride down to Abia and see for yourself what the present administration has turned the state into.

Do you have evidence that there was equally no congress in other parts of the state apart from your area?

Of course there were protests everywhere; all the candidates protested. Virtually all of them, especially those running for governor under PDP, showed their reservations. Some of them are leaving PDP as am talking to you.

For instance, Alex Otti has already left because of that reason. Some of the party’s senators from the state also protested the charade called congress. Some of them that are still hanging on are merely waiting for the primaries to see the full details of their failure. As at now, we believe they have failed already because a cockroach cannot go to fowl’s court and survive.

When you have an ambition and somebody

is bent on frustrating you, definitely you have a problem. This is made worse as the PDP at the national level has accepted the result of the congress, albeit ignorantly. That is why the people like Dr Orji Uzor Kalu quit. Orji felt very insulted that a faulty congress was held in Abia State and PDP didn’t do anything to change it.

How do you expect Orji to absorb a congress in which T. A. Orji handpicked a delegate? So I think he did the courageous thing to say he had to withdraw from the senatorial contest.

Since the former governor founded PPA, are there plans by your party to woo him back?

But is there any plan to woo him back to PPA, being the founder of the party?

Nothing concrete yet; he has to indicate interest, but for now, I don’t know if he has any plan to come to PPA. Just like I said earlier, we in PPA pray he comes back to join us. Anything can happen, you know this is politics- 24 hours is like a year in politics. He didn’t consult anybody before he quit the senatorial contest under PDP. His quitting is one of the ripple effects of the shabby congress in the state. Orji cannot go to primaries where T. A. Orji has picked delegates to select their candidates, it is not possible. Even the PDP national chairman knows it is not possible. I don’t know why President Jonathan is keeping quiet to all these things; I don’t know whether he enjoys seeing Abians suffering. T. A. Orji wants to make his son speaker of the state Assembly, he wants to pick his stooge as the governor of the state and he wants to go to Senate; is that not absurd?

Can’t President Jonathan see all these things?

That is what we are crying.

What do you think will be the effect of all these developments in the governorship and other elections in Abia State next year?

We will reject PDP; that is the effect. The masses will reject PDP wholesomely. Every-

body in Abia State, from north to south and central will reject PDP because we don’t want to perpetuate the suffering of the people.

People are suffering; Aba is like a war-torn city. I wish the President can make a secret tour to Aba or send people to go round Aba, I bet you he will denounce governance in Abia State. Aba, once the pride of Ndigbo, has been ruined by the corrupt and insensitive government of T. A. Orji. I don’t know why President Jonathan will be superintending a government like the one we have in Abia State. It has gone so bad over these years, yet the President pretends as if nothing is wrong. Abians are tired and Mr. President should know this. We are going to reject PDP in its entirety. Abians are going to salvage the situation in the state.

But the seeming disagreement in the state PDP should be a blessing to other key parties like PPA… (Cuts in) Of course we are coming to together to make sure PDP fails. All the parties are coming together to rob minds. The plan is to ensure PDP is voted out and Abians are liberated. We are going to use a central force and people will be galvanised to move in one direction to make sure that T. A. Orji and his evil intention do not see the light of the day in Abia State again.

So what message do you have for Abia electorate in the face of the kind of leadership we have in the state?

I implore Abians to remain steadfast and have belief in their leaders like myself, who are moving day and night to make sure they (Abians) are liberated and that T. A. Orji and his cohorts are chased away from the state.

We will make sure we spill our last blood, if it is what it will take to ensure Abia is set free from T. A. Orji. We will make sure that Abia indigenes will, once again, walk with their

38

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Politics

Ebong: It’s wrong to say Jonathan is weak Their activities have elicited various reactions across the country, but coordinator of Transformation Agenda of Nigeria in Akwa-Ibom State, Chief Ufot Ebong, in this interview with BIYI ADEGOROYE, discusses issues bordering on President Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election bid and how Akwa Ibom State will be the next sought after state in Africa There was a journalist who was sent about seven years ago by the opposition to visit Akwa Ibom State and write negative reports about the state. That was around 2008. That was when the foundation of many projects was put in place. He said he left the state and in good conscience, he could not write any negative story about the governor and the state. During the recent commissioning of the stadium, the man came back and said he will forever thank God for his decision not to write any false report on this state. If he had written bad things, what would he say now that those efforts have come to the fore? People may complain about money not being in their pockets but if they have taken time to study the development of certain third world countries, they will know that it starts like this. Do you know that Malaysia for very many years had the tallest building in the world, the twin towers at KLCC. They used their mean resources so that the whole world was attracted to go to Malaysia to see that massive building. How did Dubai start?

That seven star hotel was the main attraction.

It is the only one in the world. That is why we are having this great infrastructure and the world is visiting us.

Why is TAN promoting activities of the President Jonathan’s administration?

You see, having travelled to nearly all the continents of the world and having studied different modules of development, I have observed that there is a uniform pattern. There is this element of continuity in governance.

Most of the world leaders do not achieve amazing results from day one. They usually take out time to stabilise and then assemble people of like minds and from there hit the ground running. That is what has happened in Dr Goodluck Jonathan’s case. We all know the circumstances in which he came to power through. He used the first few years to take on the long term problems of the country from the foundation and he has done well when you are look at it from a broad spectrum. That is why I support him and that is why Nigerians like myself are saying, let him continue in office and consolidate on these efforts and the fruits of it will be very visible for all to see. He is a very honest, open minded and transparent leader with good intentions.

The level of insecurity in the country has been described as the weak link in President Jonathan’s government. How will you react to this?

I listened to one analyst the other day and he said that the present security situation started about 15 years ago and nobody did anything to stem the tide. Now, it has snowballed into the present day criminality. What we are experiencing now was a sectional matter. Many leaders abated it, pampered it and some even used it for political reasons, not knowing that it will one day blow up on the whole country.

So, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan inherited a condition like the insurance companies would say, pre-existing condition. So President Jonathan inherited it. It is a global challenge now. The USA, Britain and others all came here and looked for a way to find a lasting solution to this monster. Terrorism is a global problem.

Even at that, some felt that Mr. President should have postponed his second term declaration after a massive blast the day before?

What you are saying is that should armed robbers attack you, you should not eat again.

You should not go about your normal life. It goes back to what we said before. The President has put structures and people in place to handle this menace. I know we want immediate answers but even if you use all the weapons and bring down the entire area, it won’t solve the problem. Do you know why America refused to sell sophisticated weapons to Nigeria? Have we taken time to study the reasons? They say it is because of our human rights records. They know if they give us Apache helicopters we will go and kill innocent civilians alongside the terrorists.

President Jonathan is mindful of the innocent civilian population not necessarily unleashing the entire arsenal in the army on those areas.

Many say that President Jonathan is politically weak, that during his tenure the opposition has become very strong.

Is it true?

How can you say he is weak? That the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria weak?

No, he cannot. It is not about Jonathan. You are talking about the democratically elected leader of Nigeria. It is the office and the institution called the presidency. You cannot be the country’s president and be weak. The reason people may say he is weak is that he is a man who likes to follow the rules. It is not in his nature to wield naked power, witch hunt

Ebong

the opposition. You cannot say he is a weak leader; he is very thoughtful and robust leader.

Are you saying therefore that he is more civil than any other President in Nigeria’s history?

He is. Since he became president, I have not read that someone has become a political prisoner or has been hounded during his reign. I used to read about it in other regimes. He is truly a democratic leader despite the provocations. He should be celebrated. For instance, the other week, he went to the National Assembly seeking extension of the emergency rule, some persons were opposed to it, saying, he has the powers to send the army there without declaring a state of emergency. But the President wants it done within the ambit of the law and the constitution. If he does it the way they have advised and there are a few casualties, the same people will say President Jonathan is a monster.

What are the objectives of TAN? I have just been appointed the Akwa Ibom State coordinator of Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria. Our sole objective is to enlighten Nigerians and sell to the Nigerian population the need for us to re-elect President Goodluck Jonathan. TAN is a non-governmental organisation designed to promote good governance. It consists of individuals of impeccable character fostering the continuation of the transformation of President Jonathan. The group is comprised of professional men and women, youths, businessmen and women, artists, artisans, sportsmen and women, physically challenged persons, widows associations, Christians, Muslim and native religious groups. Community, traditional and market leaders, opinion molders and analysts, farmers, school teachers, trade unions and all masses of Nigeria committed to the ideals of good and quality leadership, order, unity, peace and progress of our nation.

The aim of TAN also is to promote the spirit of self-reliance and entrepreneurship, empowerment, job creation and provision of industrial cities. We also intend to create jobs to sustain families and spread the gospel of Goodluck’s transformation agenda through visible empowerment of the people.

How will you assess President Jonathan’s administration Nigerians’ perception of his performances?

Agriculture. What we have seen on ground is promising. I read the day that by 2017, Nigeria will become a net exporter of rice. Maybe you were not born yet when we used to see large groundnut pyramids in Kano. They are fast returning because of the agricultural policy of Mr. President. Agriculture is doing well and to compliment that is the railway system. He is revamping the railway system to transport these agricultural products. Talk about the roads. He has repaired the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos; dualised major trunk roads, executed hundreds of other major roads projects spread across the country.

He has dualised the Kano-Maiduguri roads linking Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Yobe and Borno states, completed the dualisation of OnitshaEastern bypass, rehabilitation of Benin Ore –Shagamu Highway and the on-going work on Abuja- Abaji-Lokoja road. You can name it. Look at the Ijebu- Agegunle –Araromi-IfeSekona road in Ogun State, rehabilitation of the Kano-Daura-Mai Adua Road in Katsina State. I can’t name it all but the president is doing well and very soon Nigerians will be happy for it. He is doing a lot in agriculture and we need to jump in and start investing in that area.

Back home, how will you evaluate the government of Chief Godswill Akpabio?

There is this catch phrase-uncommon transformation, it captures everything. It surpasses any human classification. It is so uncommon.

What are your strategies to garner more supports for Jonathan?

When you say the president enjoys popularity and massive support that is true. But then, you still have to mobilise people. There is a new word now in political circle-stomach infrastructure. Our people still look at things that way. You see this thing called APC, if we become careless, they can come here and jump around and before you know it, we become like Rivers State where people just jump around. In our state we are lucky that Governor Godswill Akpabio is the President’s chief supporter. We will use this vehicle to show that the South-South is fully in support of President Jonathan. There could be no better state to lead the charge to show that the President enjoys good support.

Recently the National Debt Board published names of states indebted internally and externally and Akwa Ibom State was not on that list. Economists say it is wrong to be without debts, what is your take on this?

The economists are correct. Any good business that does not owe is not a viable business. But I tell you something, Governor Akpabio came as a messiah. People call him the Uncommon Transformer, I call him the pathfinder. This is what I think he did.

He used whatever money the state had to execute projects to show our people that we can do it ourselves. You can do it; you cannot remain house boys and house girls; that you cannot remain that Akpan in the Nigerian movies but you can have the best stadium in the country which attracted three Presidents during its commissioning. Cross River is complaining that we first of all took their airport; I don’t know which airport that is and then we took their stadium and the Super Eagles, I don’t know which one. Governor Akpabio came and delivered. He would have chosen to take the money to anywhere and build a fortress for himself. He came, used the money in building the best roads and other critical infrastructure. It may be against the principles but it showed us that we can do it. It is for the next administration to take it from there and make Akwa Ibom State an economic hub. We are privilege to have the Ibaka deep seaport and you can imagine the opportunities waiting to be exploited.

Life

39

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014

Disability hasn’t affected my life – Cosmas Okoli Mr. Cosmos Okoli is an administrator and job creator for physically challenged persons. In this interview with FLORA ONWUDIWE, the Paralympics gold medallist speaks on family life and ambition to seek election to the House of Representatives

Why are you vying for a seat in the House of Representatives?

I know I have a lot to contribute to making laws that will help us move this country forward. Beyond the traditional role of a legislator, I have a lot more roles to play by being there. I know I am going to inspire a lot of people to get out of their slumber and begin to lead a positive life and contribute their quota to the socioeconomic development of our country, Nigeria. I am also going to inspire a lot of people in my constituency, that is, those with disabilities to realise that disability is in the mind; that even with disability you can still do a lot to help yourself, help your country and help humanity. I will also give in my own long standing experience as a social entrepreneur. I know that being there I will use my experience to touch lives using the political power inherent in the office. So I have a lot of reasons to be there.

What structures have you put in place to actualise your ambition?

In 2011 I contested under Labour Party, which is a smaller party and I used my structure. I performed well. I won that election by a landslide and they just stole the mandate. It is an open fact and with the structure which I used to win the election under Labour Party coupled with the Peoples Democratic Party’s structure would be a moving train that nothing can stop.

Let’s talk about your legislative agenda.

If I sit here and tell you that I know everything I’m going to push in the House, I will be lying. When I get into the house I am going to work with my community.

I am going to consult them, hear from them to know what they want and what they want me to push at that level. I will also discuss with my colleagues any legislation that anybody initiates and before I vote I will consult my people as well.

Definitely, I will have a lot of input to make. I know that there is a lot we can do in the area of creating job opportunities for our youths and graduates. Nothing stops us from paying graduates allow-

ances until they are employed. We need to touch the lives of widows, widowers as well as people with disabilities, the vulnerable, children and the girl-child.

You were an aspirant for the House of Representatives in Lagos State.

Why are you contesting outside your geo-political zone?

What do you mean by my geo-political zone? I am a Lagosian. I was born as an Igbo man, my early days were in the East.

While growing up, I chose Lagos as my place of abode. So I am a Lagosian. For 30 years or so, this has been my constituency. So this is my geo-political zone, this is where I belong. I frown on people who after living in a particular area and when they want to contest for election, they go to where they were born. Where you were born is a matter of accident of birth, but where you decide to live is a matter of choice. This was what I said to my colleagues at the general debate in 2011 when one of them challenged me saying that wouldn’t I take Lagos money to go and develop the East. I told him clearly that I chose Lagos. I wasn’t in Lagos by accident. Therefore, this is where nearly all my investments are and this is where all my children were born. If I had wanted to live in the United States, I would have moved over to the U.S; but I love Lagos, I love Nigeria. I decided to stay in Lagos, so this is where my heart and soul are.

What is your assessment of the just concluded national conference?

Well, it is going to help us to move this country forward. I hope that our President will be able to get down and work to move the country forward. Of course, he initiated it and I’m sure he will implement the recommendations.

What special consideration did the national conference give to those with physically challenged?

Honestly, what we need is the legislation which we canvassed through the House of Representatives. But Mr. Presi-

Okoli

dent did not sign it into law. He sent it back and we worked on it again. I’m sure it must be on the President’s table now.

So, we are appealing to Mr. President to sign that bill into law.

What efforts are you making to ease the movement of your people?

That is actually my major work. I run an organisation called Mobility Aids Appliances Research and Development Centre. It was borne out of my life experience as someone with disability. Mobil-

ity is the greatest challenge and for any person with disability to be empowered you first of all have to provide the person with the right mobility aids so that he or she can move about, go to school, learn skills, do business or work. So, I’m doing a lot in that direction. We are developing a lot of mobility aids and appliances locally. We import those that we are not yet able to produce locally and we make sure that they are available through various means, including what we call reachout programmes, where we get those who C ON TI N UE D ON PAGE 40

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Life

Disability hasn’t affected my life – Cosmas Okoli CON TINUED FR O M PAGE 39

have the means to pay for the items so that we can give the formative extreme to those who need them.

Could you tell us your accomplishments in the sport sector?

My accomplishments are many. I was an athlete before I became an administrator. As an athlete, I won a silver medal in 1990 in table tennis. At the All African Games, I won gold and silver in table tennis as well. Now the mantle of leadership fell on me in 1995 and I became the president of the federation. In 1996, I was able to prepare a team that won three gold medals with three world records in Atlanta 1996 with a couple of silver and bronze medals. By 2000, I got a team to win seven gold medals, one silver and five bronze medals.

And I was instrumental to making sports for persons with disability a scoring event at the National Sport Festival which has helped to move sports of persons with disability forward. The event at stake will no longer look down on sports for the dis-

abled because if they do they will comply at the National Sports Festival. Today, if you look at the record of things that come first at the National Sports

Definitely, I will have a lot of input to make. I know that there is a lot we can do in the area of creating job opportunities for our youths and graduates.

Festival, you will find that they went into the competitions with a lot of disabled people. Today, that singular achievement is really helping to move sport for the disabled people forward. It also has created the opportunity for them to be employed at the sport councils. That singular achievement has created a lot of opportunities for persons with disabilities. I laid a solid foundation for the development of sports for persons with disabilities in this country.

In what areas do you want the National Assembly to amend on the physically challenged?

We need comprehensive legislation to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. It is not true that the constitution is meant for everybody. The laws of the country did not envisage that somebody will be on wheel chair and that somebody will be moving around only with crutches or that some Nigerians will be blind or deaf. The laws are not actually protecting us. For instance, you said every Nigerian has a right to education but the schools around me, architecturally, are not accessible to me.

I cannot go to school because of this. You have denied me the right to education and the law does not protect me. There are so many other examples and that is why it is important to have a legislation that

protects persons with disability.

You are a Lagos-trained medical physiologist. To what extent has that helped the association?

When I designed Mobility Aids Appliances my medical knowledge helped me. Mobility Aids must not cause injury.

They must be convenient and must not worsen a person’s disability. For instance, the use of a wheel chair can kill a disabled person if it is not properly prescribed and if it is not properly treated.

My medical knowledge is helping me in designing new products and adapting the same products to our environment.

What has life been like on a wheel chair?

I use crutches, I use wheel chairs. But I will tell you that life has been good.

God has blessed me in a lot of ways, particularly good health and energy to work. God has blessed me with a good marriage and good children as well as a good work environment. I feel excited anytime I see someone whose life I have touched. It makes me feel very good. I am fine. When my friends ask me if this disability is what makes me a happy person, I laugh. I tell them that first of all, disability is in the mind for me. I don’t have any disability. I am Cosmas, a citizen of Nigeria who is able to contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development. My physical appearance has made me a better person. It makes the work harder, it makes me closer to the people, it makes me understand what it means to be poor, what it means to be vulnerable, what it means to work, so I am a rounded person. So I am happy.

How did you meet your wife?

That is a story for another day. If I start that then you should have to come with a mat or your foam.

In a nutshell…

But I will tell you. She is from my town, Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, but she is a Lagosian. It was one of those times when University of Lagos was on strike and she was a student then that her brother told me that he wanted a place for her to pass the time. He said he didn’t want her to be at home during the strike.

He said he wanted her to be doing something. I said he should send one of them - they are twins. It happened to be someone I liked first. When she came it was an opportunity to meet her. We got to know each other and understand each other.

I proposed and she accepted. It wasn’t easy because there were other attempts with people that I had wanted to marry but I found out that we would not be compatible. For instance, I have a disability and I don’t hide it. My belief is that if you want to marry anybody and that person has a permanent feature that cannot go away tomorrow, you must love that person and that feature.

You know a person with a disability is not going to wish it away. It is not going to change.

Yes, people say miracles happen, but don’t marry a disabled person because you think that a miracle will happen tomorrow.

You should love that person the way he or she is and know that it is for life.

And that was what I found in my wife. We are 19-20 years in marriage with four children three boys and one girl.

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Education on Sunday SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014

Controversy trails UNIBEN faculty election

Some of the students on queue to cast their votes

IRREGULARITIES

The election into the Faculties of Pharmacy and Agriculture University of Benin (UNIBEN), have come and gone, but the students are yet to leave behind them the allegation of irregularities trailing the elections.

Ezekiel Efeobhokhan and Eddy Uwoghiren,

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llegation of irregularities and delay of the electoral processes have continued to trail the just concluded Faculty of Pharmacy and Faculty of Agriculture elections at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), in Edo State.

The election conducted penultimate week, especially in the Faculty of Pharmacy was alleged to have been delayed due to the failure of outgoing executives to present to the Faculty’s General Assembly the statement of the account of the association, thus hampering the setting up of the electoral body which is responsible for the election process.

One of the aggrieved students, who pleaded anonymity in his grievances, stated that such action was antithetical to the smooth running of the association and against the electoral process.

He added that the right for a leader leaving an office ought to tender a statement of account of the association under his tenure, describing it as a slap on the process and sanity of the association.

His words: “How can a president call for a General Assembly when the statement of account was not ready? This is not done in

for a General Assembly when the statement of account was not ready? This is not done in any sane political system; we cannot take this day light robbery and abuse of our collective responsibility.”

The aggrieved students was said to have later dispersed the General Assembly, ordering the President to follow due process by providing the statement of account of the association.

To forestall break down of law and order, the Dean of the faculty, Professor John Akerele was said to have intervened in the matter by fixing a date for the submission of the association’s statement of account and audit of the account by the president and commencement of election, or the members of the executive should face the Students’ Disciplinary Committee (SDC).

While stating his own side of the story, the erstwhile President, Samuel Ugwumba, said his administration had been an open one, and that “there has never been no time he and his team did anything in close doors.

Pharmacy students, Ugwumba noted had been always clever, saying they have intelligent persons monitoring our administration and hence we dare not play with their intellect.

According to him, the very general assembly which took place two weeks prior to this one that was cancelled; the statement of account was provided.

“Why are the students asking for another statement of account barely two weeks after a statement of account had already been given?” he argued.

He also accused opposition to his administration as the sole perpetrators of this act as they have tried by all means possible to paralyze his government but to no avail.

He said “I am open to criticism, in fact any government who doesn’t support criticism is doomed but we all should be involved in healthy criticism”.

The student, however, thanked the Dean of the faculty and Pharmaceutical Association

How can a president call for a General Assembly when the statement of account was not ready? This is not done in any sane political system; we cannot take this day light robbery and abuse of our collective responsibility of Nigerian Students (PANS) Staff Advisers for their support for the association and his administration.

Following the submission of the association’s statement of account, the election was conducted last month at the Lecture Theatre II of the Faculty. At the end of the exercise, Darry Emazor, who won the election with four points, emerged as the President.

A total of 375 votes were cast during the election.

Other elected officers include Victory Ebidiame (Vice President), Ikechukwu Onwuakpa (Secretary General), Alex Ifesinachi (Public Relations Officer), Yahaya Abdulmejid (Director of Sports), David Eneye (Editor-In-Chief), Lucky Omonor (Financial Secretary), Precious Osariemen (Treasurer), Phillip Omale (Director of Socials), Cynthia Okolo (Director of Socials 2), and Joshua Idemudia, who is to serve as the Assistant Secretary General.

Commenting on the election results, Maxwell Ikhuoria, a 300-Level Pharmacy student decried the low turnout of students for the election, which he traced to the semester examinations.

He pleaded that necessary logistics for proper timing of elections should be put in place to encourage students come out en masse to vote in future elections.

Firm urges Nsukka residents to pay electricity bill Oladele Oge,

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he Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has urged residents of Nsukka, Enugu State to pay their N1.2billion accumulated electricity bills for the past three months or remain in darkness during the Yuletide period.

The Assistant General Manager of EEDC in charge of Revenue Cycle Services in the area, Dr. Dave Dago, made the plea in Enugu during a customer consultative forum, held for that purpose.

He said as the company was striving to improve electricity supply to the area, customers should also discharge their responsibilities of paying their bills promptly.

Dago said: “The objective of EEDC is to satisfy customers by ensuring improvement in electricity supply, but customers should do their own part by paying their bills and protecting electricity installations in their area. Customers should pay promptly their bills in banks or at EEDC cash offices to prevent disconnecting them due to failure in paying bills.”

While reiterating that EDDC would soon commence installation of pre-paid metres in Nsukka District, he warned customers to avoid metre by-pass, even as he stressed that it is a serious crime that attracts about N50,000 penalty if found guilty by court.

In his remarks, the Assistant General Manager in charge of operation and maintenance, Mr. Tony Ebhodaghe said the company had developed mechanism that indicate when an area has no light.

“Now we do not expect our customers to tell us they have no light since we know when an area has light or not,” he noted, adding that Nsukka district has their source of supply from Oji River and Nkalaga power sub-stations, in which the firm has carried out maintenance work to ensure effective supply of electricity.

“There has been great improvement in Nsukka district in terms of power supply; when EEDC took over power consumption in Nsukka was 4000 megawatts in a month, but now it has gone up to 6200,” he said.

Ebhodaghe assured consumers in the area that the company would soon replace old transformers with new ones so as to serve them better.

Already, he said new transformers had been installed at Enugu Road and Aku Road of Nsukka town to enhance better power supply.

Meanwhile, the MD/CEO of EEDC, Mr. Robert Dickerman said the aim of the forum was to feel the heartbeat of customers with a view to better serving them.

According to him, the policy of the company is anchored on integrity, customer care and performance to achieve quality service to customer.

“There is need for customers to pay their electricity bills to enable the company replace bad transformers, fix faults as well as pay workers of the company,” he noted, adding that the concern of EEDC was not to make immediate profit, but to ensure quality services delivery and earn respect from its customers.

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Education

How to curb effects of global warming –Don Babatope Okeowo, Akure

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don and Professor of Plant Physiology at the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, (AAUA), Prof Victor Olumekun, has said that proper use of and conservation of plants by mankind will curb the rising effects of global warming and cure the emerging dreaded diseases.

This was part of the thrust of his inaugural lecture, entitled: “Mankind: Learning the Art of Survival under the Tutelage of Plants.”

Olumekun, who is the Dean of Faculty of Science, said: “A few centuries ago, we had what we could now refer to as basic bacterial diseases; yesterday it was HIV/AIDS; today, we talk of Ebola Virus Disease and the dawn of tomorrow will bring another disease with greater virulence and greater threat to the existence of mankind. But we will survive if only we conserve what the good Lord has put in plants to help control

these diseases in our journey through life.

“We, therefore, seriously need to look at the plants to see how they have solved this problem, otherwise, global warming will lead to the death of us all. But I assure you, plants will be the last to die off, if they will die at all.

“From food to medicines and even knowledge about the way to the future, every cure for every ailment known and unknown, synthesized and natural has been diligently stored by nature in plants. All we need to do is to discover such plants. What we need to learn from plants is how not to be selfdestruct because it is only mankind that kills its own species.”

In his 34-page lecture, Olumekun explained that plants have been created to maximally fulfill their functions such as teachers, sustainers and protectors of mankind.

His words: “Right from the discovery of the treatment of malaria and other ailments, God has designed everything that will ensure the survival of mankind and has placed

them in plants.”

Olumekun, who warned that mankind must stop maltreating and respect plants for his survival, noted that “the good news is that plants, our “Guardian Angels”, are helping us to clear our mess by removing the excess CO2 we produce. This is in addition to the fact that plants serve as purifiers of air. They are so used to cleaning up our mess even while they are immobile.”

He lamented that industrialisation has resulted in massive exploitation of resources with concomitant effects on the integrity of the planet.

“Many Bio-geochemical processes have been compromised and these cycles are no longer being regenerated,” the don added, saying: “We produce a lot of CO2, which is threatening us through the “Greenhouse effect”, which is simply the build-up of CO2 in the atmosphere to the extent that it interferes with heat transfer into space while several noxious chemicals are daily being released into the atmosphere, resulting in the depletion of the ozone layer.”

L-R: Prof. Mimiko congratulating the inaugural lecturer, Olumekun shortly after the lecture

EKSU excels in academic, entrepreneurship competitions

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kiti State University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oladipo Aina has restated his administration’s commitment to leave no stone unturned towards actualizing the vision of the university to become a First Class University in the 21st Century.

Aina said this while receiving members of the university team who emerged third in the just concluded Annual National Entrepreneurship Competition organised by the National Universities Commission (NUC) for Nigerian universities.

The Vice-Chancellor lauded the impressive performance of the students who contested with over 40 Nigerian universities and 20 academic professional institutes to place third position, adding that the achievement has further lifted the ranking of state university nationally and globally.

The students participated in two categories where products designed and manufactured by the participants were ranked according to quality and industry relevance.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the university has now won three national competitions in three months apart from being the reigning Nigerian champion of the ENACTUS competition held in July, this year.

Presenting the Bronze medal and Certificate of Excellence to the Vice-Chancellor, the team Coordinator, Dr. A. Awe described the performance of the students as spectacular.

Aina, while receiving the media thanked the team for doing Ekiti State and the university proud, reiterating that preparations for the world ENACTUS competition scheduled for South Africa should begin immediately.

However, academic activities have resumed at the university, following the suspension of the industrial action embarked upon by all the workers’ unions of the university.

Subsequently, all members of staff are back on their duty posts while students have been arriving in large numbers for lectures.

Though, the last union to suspend its industrial action was the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), however the leadership of the union has called on its members to return to the classrooms without further delay.

“Following the suspension of the strike by all other unions, the management urged the fresh students to continue with their registration process and await a new date for their matriculation.

Dr. Chijioke

‘Poly, varsity dichotomy bane of nation’s crises’ Emeka Onwudinjo, UNIZIK

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ormer Bursar of St. Paul’s University College, Awka, Anambra State, Dr. Azodo Joseph Chijioke has described the dichotomy between holders of Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) as unjust and unfair.

According to him, such discrimination has no justifiable evidence showing that B.Sc holders are superior to their HND counterparts in terms of competence in the labour market.

He noted that the training of HND graduates was to complement the B.Sc, adding that it was high time the government mustered enough political will to remove the dichotomy by recognising university and polytechnic graduates and treat them as equals in the world of work.

His words: “Creating dichotomy between HND and B.Sc holders is rather unfortunate because many of the polytechnics have expanded and upgraded their curriculum to that of the university level. I don’t think there is any need for this dichotomy because both the HND and B.Sc graduates have the same process of training.”

Chijioke added that rather than placing emphasis on certificate, competence should be the yardstick for such disparity and not the certificate the products of the system is holding.

“I don’t believe in certificate but rather in competence and I urge the government to embrace this view so that both HND and degree holders could have the same sense of belonging in the society,” he argued.

Chijioke, however, commended the Federal Government for setting up a committee to resolve the issue surrounding the dichotomy, saying “it is a right step in the right direction.

I also commend the Senate for the journey so far and I urge them to be fair in taking any decision.”

While saying that harmonisation of the two certificates was long overdue and urging members of the committee and Senate to tread softly so as not to bruise the ego of degree holders, he added that the committee should try as much as possible to enlighten stakeholders in the education sector on why such dichotomy should be resolved.

He said: “You know in Nigeria, we attach value and sentiments to titles and certificates and for the committee to have a successful outing, all stakeholders must be carried along.

UNIPORT, OAU, others join Onga campus cooking contest list U niversity of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Abia State University (ABSU), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), and Cross Rivers State University (CRUTECH) have joined the universities that have produced regional winners in the ongoing 2014 Onga National Campus Cooking competition. With these universities, the number has increased to 12 that won the activations held on their campuses.

While Uchunor Ifeanyi of the Faculty of Agriculture led the pack of nine other con-

testants for UNIPORT with the Oha Soup and Poundo Yam dish; Uzoenyi Ifeanyi of the Faculty of Environmental Studies, ABSU beat his peers with the Edikaikong Soup and Poundo Yam, he prepared.

Similarly, Modey Murphy of the Faculty of Engineering; and Yusuf Onaopemipo of the Faculty of Agriculture; emerged winners in the regional campus activations held at CRUTECH and OAU respectively.

Prior to this, the University of Ibadan; Federal University of Agriculture, Abeo-

kuta; University of Lagos; Federal University of Technology, Minna; University of Benin; and Ahmadu Bello University had produced regional winners, who will represent the schools in the grand finale billed for this month.

Meanwhile, Princess Bogare, a pre-Degree student of Faculty of Humanities; and Ruth Okwu of Faculty of Education; emerged the first runner-up and second runner-up in the regional contest held at the UNIPORT.

• Cutout Ensembles Cutouts are a way to be suggestive and sexy all at once. It’s a way to say ‘peekaboo’ or ‘touch here’. We have come a long way from the days of the geisha so we are showing much more than a hint of an ankle. Knock yourself out with this trend but be assured you will still wake up to it in 2015.

• Capped tops and billowing sleeves This style is very retro and right now very in.

Even though it has not been taken by the fabulous fashion storm, by 2015, it will spread like wild fire, but with much more love. Lupita Nyong’o gave a new swag to the cape look.

Nigerians have gone global in their sense of fashion and we keep evolving. We are however, sure to take our identity and heritage with us wherever we go. This is our favourite scent, it is with a sense of pride that we will carry our darling oleku with us into 2015 (irrespective of how you tie it, side knot, front or side twist and so on). Watch out for the variations that will come forth.

• Oleku

• Asymmetrical hemline This fun and fantastic choice in styling allows you to show off your legs in a coquettish manner.

Just a glimpse and that’s it! It stays in place for times when you want to show your legs without having to actually put a slit in your clothing.

They swing and sway when you walk.

Whether in Ankara or any other fabric, a skater dress does plenty justice to any figure. On a scale of one to 10, the fab guage is at 11. It is just so classy and flattering that no one can resist, and whats more, you don’t need to because it will join us come 2015.

• Skater

This adult size onesie came out with a bang, and was embraced with both arms. They hug and fall in all the right places, decent and glamorous too.

They flatter every curve and pull in the right areas. It will be no wonder if they are around through the coming New Year.

• Jumpsuits

This look still works for the main reason that it easily lends a sense of affluence that you have to work harder to get from other colour choices. This look also provides a carte blanche where styling is concerned, so you can knock yourself out with the accessories colour, texture and theme.

• Head to toe white

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

A shoehorn is a necessity Vanessa Okwara

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aking care of your shoes is one of the easiest and important things you need to do in the realm of wardrobe upkeep. Keeping them in a dry and airy place ensure they are free from odour. To protect your shoes’ shape, use a shoehorn to slip your foot in. This helps to prolong the lifespan of your footwear; yet a lot of people do not appreciate how important a shoehorn is.

A shoehorn is designed to ease your foot into a shoe without causing any damage to the shoe. They’ve been around for centuries, are useful, and protect your footwear.

Not using a shoehorn is like washing an expensive suit yourself rather than taking it to the dry cleaners. Using your hand to wear your

expensive shoes breaks the back leather of the shoe and destroys its shape.

If you do not use a shoehorn to wear your shoes, over time, the back of the shoe, known as the counter, will break down.

The counter is the rear of the shoe that wraps around your foot and supports your heel.

The counter is extremely important for the structure of the shoe as it offers good it support.

By placing the horn against the counter of the shoe, it acts as a lever and gives a smoother surface to slide your foot in while also supporting the shoe’s structure.

Here are a few tips on how to use the shoe horn to protect your footwear: 1. Place the blade of the shoehorn against the ‘counter ’. The counter is the back of the shoe.

2. Insert the tip of your foot into the front of the shoe and rest your heel against the blade of the shoehorn. Push down with your heel on the blade of the shoehorn. The slick exterior of the blade will allow your heel to ‘slip’ into the shoe.

3. Remove the shoehorn from the counter of the shoe.

At this point, your foot should be comfortable in the shoe and the shoehorn should be in your hand.

4. Use a long handled shoehorn. It allows you more comfort as you do not have to bend over to utilize the tool.

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Body&Soul

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True love versus genotype

ickle cell disease as an enemy of true love is still an issue that generates controversies. When people get plagued in their relationship to separate on account of this enemy, they find themselves on the divide- do I follow my heart or do I use my head?

Well, being beleaguered with such a dilemma is something I wouldn’t even wish on my worst enemy. Because true love is so hard to find, it becomes almost unbearable to be separated by such a simple thing as a laboratory blood test result! So what will you do if you are faced with such a hard decision to make?

For Jumoke, her pain is indescribable.

She has dated a couple of guys while growing up, but nobody can ever be like Alex. She has been searching for Mr. Right for what seems like forever to no avail. On her 32nd birthday, she asked God to give her a loving husband as her birthday present. God truly answered that prayer when Alex walked into her life. He was everything she could ever wish for in a partner. He was loving, caring, romantic and above all, God fearing. Life couldn’t be better. At Alex’s insistence, they both went for genotype blood test since it was one of the requirements needed to file for marriage in their church.

It came as a rude shock when they discovered that they were both AS. In a daze, they got back to Alex’s house and cried like babies in each other ’s arms

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CONNECT NG vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com as the implication of the test results dawned on them- their marriage plans have to be terminated. How could life be this cruel? Just when you think you have found true love, it is snatched by a cruel twist of your blood composition.

Alex insists they go ahead with their marriage plans and trust God for children who do not have the sickle cell gene but she is afraid of the consequence this decision. The dilemma is killing her slowly as her heart is heavy with so much sorrow.

I ask again, can you sacrifice true love on the altar of a genetic disorder such as sickle cell? A lot of people can be pragmatic about it and tell you to break up the relationship without much ado, but it’s not that easy; especially if you are the one wearing the painful shoe.

All the same, having a child with the SS genotype has the capability of tearing down the seams that hold that love together. For the purpose of clarity, when a couple discovers they both have the AS genotype, the implication

is that they have a one-in-four chance of giving birth to a child with the sickle cell, SS genotype, which is a painful disorder that can even lead to the death of that child. This genetic disorder takes a heavy toll on the couple- financially, emotionally and psychologically.

It is very important for everyone to know what their genotype is especially their ‘S’ status. You are either an AA genotype which is void of the sickle cell gene or you are AS which has the sickle cell gene. The decision to marry someone who has the same AS genotype with you is something you need to give a very careful thought to. This decision should also include if you are going to bring children into the world that have the probability of being carriers of the SS genotype.

For one thing, it is very expensive to maintain a child with sickle cell anaemia. You need to be around a child who suffers from this illness to completely understand what I’m talking about.

Anyone who has ever been a witness

to the great anguish that a child with sickle cell anaemia goes through during a crisis definitely does not need the eloquence of a preacher before reconsidering taking genotype incompatibility as one of the numerous risks of life; true love or not.

However, the scientific breakthrough with the Stem Cell Transplant (SCT) in our country in recent times appears to give voice to those who advocate that love conquers all and genotype incompatibility should not be allowed to usurp the chances of having a blissful marriage. The SCT surgery is the removal of the Sickle cell bone marrow and replacing it with the bone marrow of a person with the AA genotype. It is important to note, however, that this surgery is very expensive (about six million naira). Do you have such an amount of money to spend on a sickness you could have avoided from the very beginning?

True love is blissful but the horrors sickle cell anaemia can inflict on that love in the long run is sickening. The decision ultimately lies at your doorstep. Whatever you decide, it is equally important to put into consideration, the feelings of other people you also affect with your choice -your family, the unborn children and the society at large.

Send your views to the email above!

Telling Ted the truth: The film angle to immigration

thought I had written my final word on immigration last week and the voice of reason would begin to prevail world over. However, I couldn’t have been further from the truth as it seems that some people just love stoking the heat of hate to perpetuate their selfish political ambition. I guess that is the way with politics but either certain ones do not look back at their history or they are just one of those to jump on the bandwagon of a debate and then think later of the consequences. In this group will fall a man called Ted Cruz.

In case you have all forgotten, Ted Cruz is the Unites States’ Senator who insulted Nigerians by saying we are fraudsters who only send out spam emails and now work for Obamacare.

Senator Cruz had been forced to clarify his statement and issue an apology by the Nigerians in the Diaspora as well as the Ambassador to the US. It seems being forced to eat the humble pie has only made Senator Cruz more determined to get rid of Nigerians and he is now jumping on the immigration reforms debate to push his hidden agenda. I read online that Senator Cruz has condemned the immigration reforms and now calling for a wall to be built around US in order to forestall the influx of the immigrants that may come into the country. He has also opposed the reforms as ‘pardon for criminals.’

I am angry and while I agree that Senator Cruz is entitled to his political opinion, I think it is time to tell him certain truths that should shape any utterance emanating from him henceforth.

Can someone please remind Senator Cruz that he is an immigrant? I was

shocked when I learnt that Senator Cruz was born across the border in Canada and brought to US as a child.

For a man credited with a high level of intelligence, I think his response is bereft of one. Ted Cruz claims he did not know he was in possession of dual citizenship as America is the only country he has known. I find that hard to believe. Does he have a passport?

I mean, his place of birth must show Calgary and unless he is saying he thinks Calgary is in US, then I must request a personal meeting for him to explain the rationale behind his thinking he is an American. We also must remind Senator Cruz that the laws that made it possible for him to be born of a Cuban father in Canada and still have access to American citizenship was put forward by a president like

Obama and the same gesture is what Obama is now extending to children in similar situation. How quick some people forget their roots when it comes to their daily bread.

I also need to tell Senator Cruz another truth he failed to realize when he called Nigerians fraudsters; you do not know Nigerians. In Texan universities where Senator hails, Nigerians make up 30 per cent of the international students, bringing in income to the economy that is paying his wages.

These students are some of the best minds that the immigration reform of Obama wants retained in US. For some reasons, I believe that certain ones among this Nigerian professionals may have voted for Cruz and his way of repaying the faith reposed in him is to insult them.

My other truth is that he does not know Nigerians. If he does know Nigerians, then Senator Cruz will know that in a country of over 150 million people, the ones sending the mails are a very negligible percentage. The typical Nigerian is a hard worker

My other truth is that he does not know Nigerians. If he does know Nigerians, then Senator Cruz will know that in a country of over 150 million people, the ones sending the mails are a very negligible percentage. The typical Nigerian is a hard worker. Can Ted please take a look at the film industry? Built on the sweat and blood of die-hard practitioners, this is a sector that now contributes 1.4 per cent of the GDP. Imagine what it will achieve if it had institutional and intellectual support!

In fact, the films coming out of Nigeria are now functioning as our roving ambassadors, introducing the uninitiated to the landscapes of Nigeria -both geographically and politically. Culturally too, these movies are invaluable. They have exported our dance, our fabric and indeed the style that goes with those fabrics. Even though, I am not a supporter of this, the film has also exported our speech mannerisms and bravado. I challenge Ted Cruz to take a walk on the streets of Houston with Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze and see who will get the confetti and who will get the rotten tomatoes.

The Nigerians of Ted’s imagination do not exist beyond the cyber world and who are we to conclude that they are all Nigerians? I know for a fact that the Internet is borderless and some of the e-mails claim to be from people resident in South Africa, Congo and Cayman Islands. It doesn’t mean I criminalize everyone from these countries.

Therefore, may I conclude by asking Senator Cruz to take time to ponder on the home truths above and get his colleagues in the lower house to do what is right and help the poor immigrants in their hour of need?

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Body&Soul

with

Wole Adepoju 07037763410

Dapo Adelegan back to the basics

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n d o Stateborn dude, Dapo Adelegan, sure belongs to the group of those who became role models in the society as a result of hard work and success stories.

It’s still fresh in the memory of many how Dapo rose to stardom and made a fortune at a relatively tender age many years back when he pioneered one of the most popular and patronised entertainment shows, Lekki Sun Splash. The significance of this success story is not just that the man in question was able to identify his strength early enough but the fact that he had the courage to follow up his dream as a fresh graduate. The bold step taken by Dapo many years back is what has made him the toast of many as he has since achieved greater feats. Today, the eloquent and articulate darkskinned English graduate sits atop a flourishing business, Celtron Group.

Dapo, for some time, had tried to revive the show which brought him to limelight, but things didn’t work out as expected. However, fresh information has it that the corporate player-turned politician has eventually got all requirements to bring back the well sought after show. A source revealed that Dapo is doing everything necessary to bring back the show as he’s said to have been holding series of meetings with those who have one or two things to do with the show. One of such meetings was with artistes who made the show great back then. The exclusive meeting with veteran musicians which was held at the Celtron office complex in Lekki, had Ras Kimono, Orits Williki, Mandators and many others in attendance.

Sources could not confirm the full details of the meeting but we were told it had to do with how the show would be revived. Celeb Lounge authoritatively learnt that the show would bounce back next year as sponsors had shown interest in it.

Happy time for Mercy Aigbe

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ust the way it is for so many, Edo State-born mother of two, Mercy Aigbe Gentry, did not pick the opportunity to exhibit her acting prowess on a platter.

Rather, she struggled and competed for a place before she was eventually recognised in Nigeria’s film industry. Today, she has moved up the ladder, established herself and made herself relevant, especially in the Yoruba film industry where she plies her trade. The talented and light-skinned actress has not only been able to make herself a force to reckon with in the industry with a lot of successful projects to her credit. She has

woleadepoju@yahoo.com

Dapo Abiodun eyes new goal

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tarting out as an entrepreneur, Iperu Remo, Ogun State-born Dapo Abiodun strove to make things work. Fortunately, things began to look up for him and gradually he became a reference point in his chosen career.

As a businessman, the boss of Heyden Petroleum was on top of his game and socially, he was a pace setter. When it was time to pursue his longtime dream of playing partisan politics, he dived into the political river where his magic wand almost immediately began to pave way for him. However, he rose through the ranks before planning to become the governor of his state. This did not work out back then. Another side of life crept in when lightskinned Dapo was confined to crutches due to a strange illness. While he was battling with his health, his business dwindled so much that he was taken to court by defunct Oceanic Bank over an alleged unpaid loan. Politically, he was not finding things easy. It was such a trying period for the amiable and brilliant Dapo that many never gave him the chance of coming out of the ordeal. But as fate would have it, Dapo began to sing a new song again as his health and business were restored. He was among oil dealers who got a clean bill to continue the importation of fuel. Politically, he’s also been able to move on and chart a new course. It will amount to an understatement to say things have been going on well for him since his miraculous recovery. He was also reported to have bought a private jet recently.

The thrust of this piece actually is the success he recorded in the first leg of his dream to break new grounds in politics. Having aligned with the All Progressives Congress expectedly, Dapo jettisoned his governorship dream to pick a ticket to vie for Ogun East Senatorial District seat in the National Assembly. With his streak of success in recent time, his political popularity, clout and goodwill, many have already conceded victory to him. However, people are keenly watching this candidate because he will be vying against fellow money bag, Kashamu Buruji.

also got to a level where she could venture into other businesses. Like a number of actresses had done, Mercy invited friends and associates to come and celebrate with her recently when she opened a store where she trades in various items that include hair accessories, clothing, kiddies items, cosmetics, among others. The store known as MAG DIVAS Boutique is located in the highbrow area of Omole Estate, Ikeja.

Meanwhile, the saying: different strokes for different folks, may aptly fit in the situation of Mercy and her hotelier husband, Larry Gentry, whom those who should know say is broke.

Kingsley James remarries

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andsome upwardly mobile dude and deputy CEO of printing & signage company, Digiprints, Kingsley James, may not have a name and face that cuts across the society but he’s sure influential and connected in his own right. He is also doing very well for himself.

Some got to know about him years back when his wife was shot dead in a robbery in Lagos. His little girl was lucky to have survived the bullet wounds. Frontline entertainers like D’Banj, Tee A, Gbenga Adeyinka among others had staged a walk to the state assembly and governor’s office to protest the activities of robbers in the state. Six years after he lost his wife, amiable James has a reason to smile

again as he has eventually taken another wife. James and the love of his life, Deola, days ago, got married in Lagos in a classy way. The wedding saw invitees ferried to a resort in Lagos where their guests were treated to the best expected from a person of Kinsley’s status.

Hon. Akinlade’s hidden ambition

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rom a s a l e s representative at an auto mart to becoming the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Isiak Akinlade, has been able to rise to the enviable height he is today. This is because human needs are insatiable and it’s only natural for a politician to aim higher.

Akinlade, for a long

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Body&Soul

time, had made his intention to become the governor of Ogun State known and he’s currently doing all within his power to become the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state. However, from information reaching us, Akinlade may actually be nursing a secret ambition to be a hotelier of note. Those who are in the know will attest to the fact that Akinlade has a massive hotel at Alakuko area of Lagos, named Pacific Hotel. And fresh information from privileged sources has it that he’s building another in the area. Work is said to be at a preliminary stage at another location where he wants to erect a hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

John Abebe off mourning moons

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t was a bitter pill to swallow for the popular Abebe family when t h e story h i t t h e town t h a t t h e youngest of their siblings, Henry, had passed on.

The high society where he belonged did not find it easy as well as it was tough to come to terms with his death. Henry died of complications from liver-related issues, thereby leaving behind his wife, Beatrice, and three children.

Since the most constant thing in life is change and time they say heals all wounds, the elder brother to the deceased, John, four months after his brother’s death, may have pulled off his mourning clothes and continued with life. Henry, in recent times, has been spotted at different social gatherings in a mood that suggests he has allowed the past to become history.

Media big boy, Biodun Kupoluyi, celebrates @ 50 ne of us in the pen pushing in-

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dustry, Biodun Kupoluyi, has every reason to be happy and thankful to God at the moment. The dark-skinned, well-built media personality has just hit the golden age of 50.

In a bid to make the day a memorable and special one, the former employee of The PUNCH fondly called Bourdillon has perfected plans to host friends, associates and well wishers to a party.

The event, which is expected to be a media carnival because of the status of the birthday boy in the industry, is billed to take place at Times Square, Ikeja, come December 21. The amiable publisher of E24 magazine, in a chat, said he’s got every reason to be thankful to God for being with him and taking him this far.

Grace Egbagbe changes gear

been seen of the union in recent times is that love is again ruling.

A source who claimed to have run into the couple somewhere in Lagos recently revealed there’s nothing that suggested that their marriage ever went through such a turbulent period as they appeared like teenagers who were dating. The couple had earlier shown the world that they were in love when they came to felicitate with another banking guru, who celebrated his 50th birthday earlier in the years, Nnamdi Okonkwo.

Femi Pedro resigns to fate

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former director at Niger i a Te l ev i so n Au t h o r i ty, G ra ce Ze m a ye Eg ba g b e , ca n n ot be s h oved as ide wh en those that matter in the social realm are being discussed. The gracefully ageing lawyer has been recognised as a fa c to r o n t h e so c i a l sce n e .

Egbagbe is influential enough t h a t s h e g ra c e s h i g h o c ta n e events, mostly in company with powerful people like S e n a to r D a i s y D a n j u m a a n d S en ator I ta G iwa.

A t a p o i n t , s h e w a s ra r e l y se en at gath er in gs , except at few se l e c te d pa r t i es . Af te r a b r ief absen ce from th e soc ial scene, she was sighted alongs i d e Dan ju ma at an exc lu s ive social gathering in the SouthSouth recently. Continuing in t h e s p i r i t o f exc l u s i v e s h i ndi gs , th e h igh soc iety woman h o s te d t h e P re s i d e n t o f t h e Nigerian Bar Association, Augustine Alegeh (SAN), and ano t h e r to p l e ga l p ra c t i t i o n e r, C h i e f M i ke O ze h ko m e (SA N ) , to a pr ivate par ty.

Captains of industry, top entertainers, the crème de la crème of the society and dignitaries are expected to grace the event.

Chika Mbonu, wife glow again

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ormer man at the top of affairs at the defunct Assurance Bank, Chika Mbonu, and wife, Amaka, are once again happy together to savour marital bliss which sometime ago eluded their union.

Trouble crept into their marriage when the man was engulfed by a scandalous matter, when a member of the church where he’s a pastor accused him of fathering two of his children. Expectedly, the accusation sparked controversy, so much that it took a toll on his marital life.

It was indeed a trying period for the family but peace reigned at last. What can be said from what has

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anker turned politician, Femi Pedro, who was at a time a deputy governor of Lagos State, may have resigned to fate as far as his political career is concerned. That is if information reaching Celeb Lounge is anything to go by.

Celeb Lounge learnt that the top banker, who is still very much interested in a political career, had toyed with the idea of vying for an elective post in the 2015 elections but he never pronounced it because the body language of the party leaders did not favour him. We were further informed that the man in question has practically brought himself down and now worships at the feet of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. It will be recalled that Femi Pedro committed ‘political suicide’ towards the 2007 elections when he made desperate attempts to succeed Asiwaju Tinubu as Lagos State governor. Pedro was impeached as deputy governor and he joined the Labour Party to prosecute his governorship ambition but failed. He defected to the Peoples Democratic Party after which he returned to the party that gave him political leverage as a prodigal son.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Miscellany Alley

Life is rich sometimes and painful at other times, but it is mostly full.

Let’s share our experiences on this page, after all, everyday is an opportunity to learn...send yours to julietbumah@gmail.com

Attention flig ht I cannot co no-show unt how m any times I have been a vic Even people tim of flight no show. touched by around me have been th General str just talking e scourge. We are not eet ab This is one madness (GSM) here o! We al out the local flights l know the long way invention that has g atti gets on other one in h oyinbo fligh tude one a nd has als elping communicati a ly to London ts o gone a lo o . So, I decided , especialteriorating ng way in n, Arik air. On to go with o d u er h ea m lth si handled w the traffic w y way to the airport, ell. The inv tuation if not ore agbada en phones ha tion of mo and came to the toll gate! sb b I need you cially on th rought in madness, ile this with m to im espee ag si ine d e e, I was five o f o u dren cause r youths, ch minutes behind the tw a o like fraud, lot of havoc with ph ilmy people, hours before check in, n ones u d ity (sextin yo use of adu the gates w u will not believe that lt websites. g) and also the ere closed in the lives of This is a p my the attendan art ou ts were just face and guidance ca r children where par of me with a b lo o king at ental nnot be att lank stare in ain part which th was advised affects a la ed. The other to reschedu eir eyes! I o rg ur society e number and paid a le the flight of fin health. This is that which affect changed my e of $300 (N55, 000). I s our in cl u d es pounds, an an w sw ith the rig ering of ca d then I had to queue to re phones clo ht ear, sleeping with lls all of this, th schedule my flight. In se our to us like e lows, keep on ground. original flight was still ing phones under our pilIt did not d close to sen body part epart until had left the siti s li I ai for the wo ke the breast especi ve later. Should rport over two hours m ally en a n d people not b the the men, ch siderate abo e arging pho pubic area for ut these thin more conn si es d e to menti by your b two hours on gs? I mean, g go a long w on but a few. This w ed consider a cu round and you cannot ould a y in helpin st precaution Victor L. 30 omer? Na wa o! s are taken g us if proper yrs is taken in and aware Epe, Lagos to co ness Paul Olush nsideration. ola; 30 Benin

Health Wellness Natasha Ellah

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na ta s ha ella h@ gm a il. co m

superfood is a nutritionally dense food that packs more punch than others because of the concentration level of antioxidants and important vitamins and minerals present that are needed by the body. By introducing superfoods into your diet, you can live longer, reduce the risk of chronic disease, lose weight and easily maintain a healthy lifestyle. Health enthusiasts publicize various foods such as blueberries, goji berries, broccoli, cauliflower and green tea. If you are an African health enthusiast, getting access to these foods is extremely difficult, and if found, are too expensive to buy on the regular basis needed to show any benefit to the body. Evidence also shows that locally grown produce can have higher nutritional value than produce transported long distances. As most of the above listed superfoods do not feature in the average African’s diet, lets introduce some local and readily available African plants so that the health enthusiasts in Africa do not feel left out.

Number one on this list is the Ugwu leaf (scientific name Telfairia occidentalis) or pumpkin leaf. The benefit of adding this leaf to your diet, in any form, is a plus. Putting some chopped ugwu leaves to porridge, blending the leaves raw with smoothies or frying it in a little oil with onions and tomatoes are easy ways to introduce this nutrient and mineral rich plant, into one’s diet. Its deep green colour means it is mineral rich; so favour gentle cooking as this helps make those minerals more bioavailable to the human body. Ugwu packs a clout

n Seriian seaso stupid?

Thuglitic n people be so r after year, How ca ear round, yea r money, ou ll y ously, a ple cart away ling, shoprities n celeb by the pubo eo a o p h h t c e s s s e , u th t mo e so medical aying More fa ities are mad et, one canno e holid ng and getting ention il h w t r Y ot to m rnicati Celeb olise them. metimes, no ping, fo broad. This is n uiring over id so st a q n c o a lic who ess to them, press. The be ti ke – atten ey are r cc sions th travels they ma nts n have a tlemen of the e number fo a m e e th ta th n h s is t e s a d s g , n a is a f d n s o eo eve mpt there, plu se with a retinu mbers who a demig ay atte y. me you m blicist who is ere celebrit cau e y b il t m s fa ju m u st eir tax paytheir p ed with the s like the la e up of th e auspices of the is even d a m d r r it a a If one l on th comp ard their w imes, the at all trave y. Diaris God o! y from these t o e e a n They h es 230. Some orse than th w o r m e ’ ers e oth come w o to look th ns, when they m to Merced y give off is it possible t g n li il w w e Is It hire the ctful clo tude th h the talent. he attitude? disrespe loyed youths and g elections t in p r one wit n a notch on ate the people u m - to une ause trouble d , and invariw n c dial do t help to alie ct it is tanta erit s go and a o f in on m d y blood n e in does ake you, hat fe r they cannot w callous men, m arter. t d n a n be sm for these who m o biting the h and wonde ably die ng men, you ca (if you get t k u mount ke a step bac e celebrities in o e Y n ! e mo y en it s, boils a y take th ur way and wh son you. T ould be if th se their fan a m u o Y r ! lo o w e s y p o b it t o t jo g h ere how but bly e rig e mind), voting, vote th eded change invaria harge w your c overage and ave you? B e e comes to make a much-n worth shedle c media would that der and mor not can re o a h tip y w e e in h e k h ty. T r even a Wher d definitely ple. Leave t our socie f your blood no to o n is e a s , p e ir o e e d! th wis rop f th ding a d il for. Be warne ! Even erate o consid the real stars na r s r u o y 8 y 4 f , o gnatius airs for ed…still.

Arthur I nd s tifi la not jus t Okon, 27yr Is s Lago Kubia kki, Lagos e Ibeju-L

The average African superfood nutritionally; it has Vitamin A, chlorophyll, and magnesium, which allow the body to respond quickly to stress, thus increasing our capacity to work. Chlorophyll aids the fight against ageing by cleansing the body of harmful toxins; very important if you live in a polluted city. Its bitter compounds also support circulation and aid in the secretion of bile and gastric acids for the digestion and most importantly, the absorption of food. So the next time you have that bowl of swallow and edikaikong soup, think of all the goodness going down too!

Second on the list is Bitter Kola (scientific name Garcinia kola). It is known in Nigeria, Cote D’Ivoire and other parts of West Africa, to be quite the powerhouse. Its spurious reign as ‘the Ebola cure’ in Nigeria was an indication of just how much bitter kola is considered a cure for all. By eating the plants potent seeds, one may be able to improve the symptoms of cough, inflammation of the respiratory tract, cure bacterial infections, indigestion and fever. Its bitter taste means it contains sulfurbased compounds that support the natural detoxification pathways in the liver; aiding the most important liver function - keeping your body clean and clear. Not only are the seeds useful, but other parts too; the stalks are used as chewing sticks for oral hygiene. The teeth are cleaned in the morning by chewing the roots or thin stems of the plants until they acquire brush-like ends. The fibrous end is used to brush and clean the teeth thoroughly every morning.

As it is quite bitter, you can grind one or two seeds in a

blender and sprinkle into smoothies or on-top of salads for a bit of a kick, ensure you eat it as soon as its been grinded to get the most effective benefits.

The third is Ukpa or African Walnut (Tetracarpidium conophorum) grown in the humid tropical forests of West and Central Africa. Its seeds are rich in polyunsaturated ‘good fat’ with proven cholesterol-lowering properties lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Its bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine to ease dysentery, diabetes and other diseases, and in Nigeria, its seeds are reportedly used to treat male infertility. The American Heart Association, largest voluntary organisation devoted to fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke, shows that polyunsaturated fats can have a beneficial effect on your heart when eaten in moderation and when used to replace saturated fat and trans fat in your diet. Its root is a rich source of mineral elements such as Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium, which aid in reducing blood pressure. The presence of chromium, even at low concentration, is an indication that the plant may be useful for the management of diabetes.

It also contains the important antioxidant -Vitamin C and for energy and the B-vitamins for metabolism.

So, if you live in West or Central Africa, and you would like to improve your diet by eating superfoods, now you know you can think local and snap up these fresh mineral and nutrient-dense foods for a fraction of the imported, and probably less nutritious, food prices. Here’s to enjoying the African flavours that are right on your doorstep!

Natasha Ellah, a Pilates instructor living in Port Harcourt, has a passion for healthy living and nutrition

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Wine & Dine

Body&Soul

Reach for pineapple Ibukunoluwa Kayode

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ruits and vegetables are beneficial to the body. Making them part of our everyday meal goes a long way in reducing the risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Many studies suggest that high intake of certain fruits including pineapples decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart diseases. They are said to promote a healthy complexion and hair, increase energy and lower body weight.

Age-related macular degeneration: A higher intake of all fruits (three or more servings per day) has also been shown to reduce risk of and progression of age-related macular degeneration.

A glass of crushed natural pineapple fruit juice is the best way to start a day. One cup of fresh pineapple chunks contains approximately 82 calories, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of cholesterol, 2 milligrams of sodium, 22 grams of total carbohydrate, 16 grams of sugar, 2.3 grams of fiber and 1 gram of protein.

A bowl of fresh pineapple also provides 131% of your Vitamin C need for a day, 2% of Vitamin A, 2% of calcium and iron. It is a source of important vitamins and minerals such as thiamine, riboflavin, Vitamin B-6, foliate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, manganese, potassium, antioxidants and polyphenols such as beta-carotene.

Freshly homemade fruit juice can sometimes be a good substitute for water due to its nutritional value that helps balance the system. It can be taken before and after meals.

This healthy fruit is the only source of an enzyme called bromelain, which studies claim is effective in alleviating joint pain and arthritis. The enzyme also helps in reducing inflammation, inhibits tumour growth and shortens recovery time following plastic surgery.

It has the healthiest substance that helps fight

against the following disease in the body: Asthma: The risks of developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients.

One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, found in plant foods like pineapple, mangoes, papaya, apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin and carrots.

Blood pressure: Consuming potassium-rich fruits and vegetables can help lower blood pressure.

Cancer: As an excellent source of the strong antioxidant, Vitamin C, pineapples can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer and as well play protective role against prostate cancer, according to a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health’s Department of Nutrition7.

Diabetes: High fiber helps prevent type 1 diabetics and lowers blood glucose levels.

Digestion: Pineapple, because of its fiber and water content, prevents constipation, promotes regularity and a healthy digestive tract.

Fertility: Antioxidant-rich diets like pineapple have been shown to improve fertility.

Inflammation: Some studies have shown that bromelain, the enzyme found in pineapples, can reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain associated with injury and surgical intervention. Bromelain is currently being used to treat and reduce inflammation from tendinitis, sprains, strains, and other minor muscle injuries as well as swelling related to ear, nose and throat surgeries or trauma.

Heart health: The fiber, potassium and Vitamin C content in pineapple all support heart health. High potassium intakes are also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones.

Skin: The antioxidant Vitamin C, when eaten in its natural form or applied topically, can help to fight skin damage caused by the sun and pollution, reduce wrinkles and improve overall skin texture. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, the support system for your skin.

Moroccan potato salad

Biwom Iklaki

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hristmas is as good a time as any to become a foodie or a food connoisseur. So basically, it is a time to try new and interesting meals,from foreign lands no less. As exciting as the season is, this feeling is likely to be transferred to your palates which will free your inhibitions to try new tastes, textures and temperatures. If you are having guests or family over for the Christmas dinner, it could even be looked at as a time to show

off your culinary skills garnered over the entire year. Feel free to showcase this Moroccan potato salad which is fresh, filling and guaranteed to win you a belch of appreciation at the table.

INGREDIENTS 2 cups Olives (pithed) ½ Onion (chopped) 1 Cucumber (cubed) 1 cup Coriander (chopped) 1 Lemon zest ½ stalk green onion (chopped)

1 tsp Cumin seed (toast) 4 medium Tomatoes (dice) ½ cup shaved fetter cheese (for the salty taste) 1 fistful Pine nuts (toast) Boiled potatoes (cut into chunks that won’t dissolve in salad) DRESSING 2 tbs scoops Dijon mustard 1 tbs Honey 1 tbs Mustard 1 whole Lemon (juice)

3 tbs Olive oil 1 tbs Honey (for a bit of sweetness) 1 clove finely chopped Garlic (more if you like) Salt (pinch) PREPARATION In a salad bowl, assemble your olives, onion, cucumber, coriander, etc. toss lightly and set aside. In a mixing bowl, mix the dressing ingredients and whisk till smooth consistency. Pour over salad and toss.

Serve with favourite cocktail or red wine.

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Body&Soul

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y grandma taught me everything about Christmas. I was just a kid. I remember tearing across town on my bike to visit her on the day my big sister dropped the bomb: “There is no Santa Claus,” jeered my sister. “Even dummies know that!”

My grandma was not the gushy kind, never had been.

I fled to her that day because I knew she would be straight with me. I knew Grandma always told the truth, and I knew that the truth always went down a whole lot easier when swallowed with one of her world-famous cinnamon buns.

Grandma was home, and the buns were still warm. Between bites, I told her everything. She was ready for me.

“No Santa Claus!” she snorted. “Ridiculous! Don’t believe it. That rumor has been going around for years, and it makes me mad, plain mad. Now, put on your coat, and let’s go.”

“Go? Go where, Grandma?”

I asked. I hadn’t even finished my second cinnamon bun.

“Where” turned out to be Kerby’s General Store, the one store in town that had a little bit of just about everything. As we walked through its doors, Grandma handed me ten dollars. That was a bundle in those days.

“Take this money,” she said, “and buy something for someone who needs it. I’ll wait for you in the car.” Then she turned and walked out of Kerby’s.

I was only eight years old.

I’d often gone shopping with my mother, but never had I shopped for anything all by myself. The store seemed big and crowded, full of people scrambling to finish their Christmas shopping. For a few moments I just stood there, confused, clutching that tendollar bill, wondering what to buy, and who on earth to buy it for. I thought of everybody I knew: my family, my friends, my neighbors, the kids at

On Santa’s team

school, the people who went to my church.

I was just about thought out, when I suddenly thought of Bobbie Decker. He was a kid with bad breath and messy hair, and he sat right behind me in Mrs. Pollock’s grade-two class.

Bobbie Decker didn’t have a coat. I knew that because he never went out for recess during the winter. His mother always wrote a note, telling the teacher that he had a cough; but all we kids knew that Bobbie Decker didn’t have a cough, and he didn’t have a coat.

I fingered the ten-dollar bill with growing excitement. I would buy Bobbie Decker a coat. I settled on a red corduroy one that had a hood to it.

It looked real warm, and he would like that. I didn’t see a price tag, but ten dollars ought to buy anything. I put the coat and my ten-dollar bill on the counter and pushed them toward the lady behind it.

She looked at the coat, the

Cross word puzzle

of Santa’s helpers. Grandma parked down the street from Bobbie’s house, and she and I crept noiselessly and hid in the bushes by his front walk.

Suddenly, Grandma gave me a nudge. “All right, Santa Claus,” she whispered, “ get going.

I took a deep breath, dashed for his front door, threw the present down on his step, pounded his doorbell twice and flew back to the safety of the bushes and Grandma. Together we waited breathlessly in the darkness for the front door to open. Finally it did, and there stood Bobbie. He looked down, looked around, picked up his present, took it inside and closed the door.

Forty years haven’t dimmed the thrill of those moments spent shivering, beside my grandma, in Bobbie Decker ’s bushes. That night, I realized that those awful rumors about Santa Claus were just what Grandma said they were: Ridiculous!

Santa was alive and well ... and we are on his team!

•Culled: www.wanttoknow. info

money, and me. “Is this a ways insisted on secrecy.

Then she drove me over to Christmas present for someone?” she asked kindly. “Yes,” Bobbie Decker ’s house, exI replied shyly. “It’s ... for Bob- plaining as we went that I was bie. He’s in my class, and he now and forever officially one doesn’t have a coat.” The nice lady smiled at me.

What insect is a coward?

I didn’t get Which building has the most stories?

Ans: A flea!

Ans: Library! any change, but she put What did the magazine say to the pencil? the coat in Where do sheep get their hair cut?

Ans: At the bah bah shop. a bag and Ans: You are looking very sharp today. wished me a Which nine letter word has five loved letMerry Christ- Where do you learn to make ice cream?

Ans: At Sundae School! ters and four hated letters? mas.

Ans: Sugarcane That evening, Grandma helped me wrap the coat in Christmas paper and ribbons, and write, “To Bobbie, From Santa Claus” on it ...

Grandma said that Santa al-

Gags

Gags

Colour Art

Faith 51

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014

News

Bible Society of Nigeria unveils Bura, Idoma Bibles p.52

Interview

Christians must embrace social media evangelism – Ehizode p.58

Sermon

What favour will do for you p.57

2015: Abiara counsels politicians Sola Adeyemo,

G Ibadan

eneral Evangelist, Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide, Agbala Itura, Ibadan, Prophet (Dr.) Samuel Abiara, has appealed to politicians to take a cue from the manner elections are conducted in advanced countries, and ensure peaceful polls in 2015.

The cleric made the appeal on Thursday during the ‘Jesus Festival programme and Thanksgiving Service,’ marking the 32nd anniversary of his ministry held at City of Peace, International Headquar-

ters, Ibadan.

While asking Nigerians to discountenance the prophesy of disintegration being made by some people, Abiara, who said that prayer would sustain the country urged politicians to eschew door-die politics, brigandage and violence.

“Our politicians travel all over the world and they see how elections are conducted without violence as we have been witnessing it in Nigeria. We watch on CNN, Aljazeera and hear on BBC, even read in foreign newspapers how peaceful their elections have been.

As the 2015 elections draw near, I appeal to our politicians to take

it easy. Anyone that loses should congratulate the winner. I encourage them to take it easy.

“If they want the peace and comfort of the people indeed as they do say during electioneering, they should take it easy. Winning should not be by force or do-ordie. They should please conduct the elections in free and fair manner. And I believe with prayer that we have been engaging in, Nigeria will be in peace. Nigeria will witness progress by God’s grace,” he said.

Abiara was described by the chairman of the festival committee, Pastor Samson Ojo, as ‘a symbol of peace and humility.’

On the issue of Boko Haram insurgency, the prophet said it was not a peculiar case with Nigeria and that “only God can stop the insurgents.”

He gave the assurance that in spite of it, “2015 will be a good year.” He urged Nigerians not to “listen to prophets of doom who are saying that Nigeria will disintegrate and be destabilised in 2015.”

Assuring the nation of a better future, Abiara said, “God owns Nigeria. I believe it is going to be well with us in spite of the present troubles. We should not worry. We are believing and praying that God will save Nigeria.”

RCCG marks 17th Holy Ghost congress

Sermon

I am coming out of this pit p.56

Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph online.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Tai Anyanwu

T

he just concluded 17th Congress of the Redeemed Christian Church of God drew a huge crowd of both members and non-members to the Redemption Camp, on Kilometre 46, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State.

The weeklong event tagged, ‘The Good Shepherd,’ was well organised as the church made adequate arrangements for millions of people who participated in the meeting, which some described as annual celebration of miracles.

Taking full advantage of the internet to facilitate live streaming of the services, the church got millions of people to hook on to the events taking place at the sprawling prayer arena convention either through viewing centres provided by the church across the world or via personal computers.

Participants were also blessed through insightful messages by anointed men of God who also graced the occasion. Among them were the General Overseer of Sword of the Spirit Bible Ministry, Bishop Wale Oke; Coordinator of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Pastor (Mrs.) Helen Ezekiel; Pastor Stephen Rathod from India; General Overseer of International Central Gospel Church, Accra, Ghana, Dr. Mensah Otabil, and a host of others.

While introducing the theme in his sermon titled: ‘He is worthy to be praised,’ on the first night of the congress, Oke commended the RCCG General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, for masterminding such a massive gathering and for demonstrating exemplary leadership.

Worshipers praying during the 17th Holy Ghost Congress of the Redeem Christian Church of God.

I take notes when my son is preaching – Oyedepo

S

Vanessa Okwara

hiloh is the annual convocation of members of the Living Faith Church worldwide aka Winners Chapel.

The event began in September 1999 when the 50,000-seater auditorium of the church called Faith Tabernacle was dedicated.

Shiloh, now in its 16th edition, is seeing more people gathering for the event not only at the main church auditorium but also across thousands of viewing centres across the world.

The presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, in his opening speech, declared: “Shiloh is not a just church programme, it is a prophetic gathering ordained to deliver everyone’s inheritance and a prophetic platform of empowerment of believers. The mandate for Shiloh is taken from Joshua 18:1-3 and is ordained by God for your inheritance.

“In this edition of Shiloh, tagged ‘Heaven on earth,’ every par-

ticipant shall have dramatic turnaround encounters that will usher everyone into a world of heaven on earth.”

The church, located at Idiroko Ota in Ogun State, was a beehive of activities as both human and car traffic stormed the area last week.

People from different states and countries gathered in their thousands for the five-day event which ran from Tuesday to Saturday.

Sunday New Telegraph gathered that more than 52 countries were represented by their delegates.

They were given accommodation at the church’s camp houses and guest house.

As it is consistent with other previous Shiloh conventions, this year’s event was packed with special features such as healing and deliverance classes, father and mother of nations for people believing God for children; marital breakthrough classes and youth alive forum.

The event began on Tuesday night and the following, kicked off with an hour of prayer. During the prayer session, worshippers were left alone to seek the face of God

concerning their needs and issues.

This was followed by three sets of teaching from various ministers who are also pastors of the ministry.

In one of these sessions, Bishop Oyedepo’s first son, Pastor David Oyedepo Junior, also ministered.

He is the pastor in charge of the UK and other churches in Europe. After his teachings, Bishop Oyedepo remarked on the importance of parents training their children in the way of the Lord from their early years. He attributed the success of his sons in the ministry to the early training they received from him and his wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Faith Oyedepo.

“If you start early to bring up your children in the way of the Lord, they will not give you trouble in your old age. To the glory of God, I take notes now when my own son is ministering. In fact, I saw a scripture today that I’ve never seen before when he was teaching and I thought I had read the Bible back to back,” he said.

Bishop Oyedepo turned 60 recently and two of his sons David and Isaac are fully in the ministering CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

52

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Faith

Bible Society of Nigeria unveils Bura, Idoma Bibles

A

Tai Anyanwu and Stanley Ihedigbo

s part of efforts to make Bibles available in every Nigerian language, the Bible Society of Nigeria has successfully completed the translation of the holy book into Bura and Idoma languages.

Briefing the press in Lagos during the week, BSN General Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer, Rev. Dare Ajiboye, expressed gratitude to God for enabling the society to successfully complete the translation of two additional language Bibles into Nigerian languages. This brings the number of Bible translations to in Nigerian languages to 24.

BSN had earlier this year completed the

translation of the Bible into Igede and Ebira languages.

Speaking on the Bura Bible project, the BSN boss explained that it is a language spoken in Borno State.

“Our efforts to translate the Bible into Bura language started as far back as 1973 when the United Bible Societies published the New Testament in Bura. This complemented the efforts earlier made by the missionaries to translate the Bible into Bura.

“However, there was the need to review the New Testament in 1974. This review was completed and published in 1986 by BSN. From 1986, there was agitation to have the complete Bible in Bura, but the Old Testament project did not start until 2000. Mr. Joshua Pakshar Mhya started the

translation work and was later assisted by Mr. Albwari Malgwi in 2002 and Pastor Joshua Dira in 2003.”

He added that in 2006, Rev. Paul Hamidu joined the translation team to make the work faster. In 2007, Pastor Joshua Dira left the translation team and was replaced

by Mrs. Comfort Paul, who also left after two years.

“It took 14 years to complete the Old Testament, having started the work in the year 2000,” he noted.

Ajiboye said that several attempts to translate the Bible into Idoma language was made by some individuals, but BSN officially took over the project in 1970 and eventually, the New Testament in Idoma language was published. Shortly after, the

Idoma Christians demanded a complete Bible in their language, which led to the inauguration of Idoma Bible translation.

“By 1985, the first draft of the Old Testament had been done by the first translator, Rev. Ebute Obiyabo, who worked on the project. Later, Rev. P. A. Udeyi was engaged to review the Old Testament and revise the New Testament. This, he did, until 2002 when he passed on.

“In 1988, Mr. Onche Agbo joined the Idoma bible team and completed the revision of the New Testament in 2005. In 2006, Edward Uloko joined as translator and he alongside Onche Agbo completed the final stage of the translation of the Old Testament in 2012,” Ajiboye explained.

Diary Freedom Nights

Freedom Foundation Apostolic, Abule-Egba, Lagos miracle night comes up from December 15-19.

The host minister, Prophet Sam Ojo Omolojesu, told Sunday New Telegraph that the programme, with the theme: ‘Anointing for Exploits,’ would features praises, miracles, deliverance and worship. The event is scheduled to hold at the church on Olayiwola Street, New Oko Oba Abule Egba, Lagos.

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Baptist Church All is set for the hosting of seven hours of praise, prayer and prophecy at Upper Room Baptist Church (Marantha Assembly), Lagos. The event tagged: ‘By this time next year,’ is slated for December 26. Venue is the church ground at Alapere, Ketu, Lagos. Highlights of the event include film show, songs and worship.

‘Great Reformation Christ Apostolic Church Reformation Land (Ile Atunse), Ibadan, Nigeria will from Monday December 15 to Sunday, December 21, 2014 hold its annual prayer, praises and preaching. The event tagged: ‘Great Reformation 2014,’ and with the theme: ‘Unto Us A Child is Born,’ will begin at 5p.m daily at the church auditorium at Olunloyo, Akanran Road, Ibadan.

Christ Apostolic The Freedom Festival of Christ Apostolic Church, Akowonjo, Lagos, which began on December 7, promises to usher in freedom to those in bondage.

The programme, scheduled to end on December 20, has been organised with the theme: ‘He is coming soon.’ The host minister, Prophet M.I. Olagunju, explained that the programme, powered by Christ City of Peace Evangelical Ministry, would feature testimonies, praises, worship and miracles.

53

NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 14 DECEMBER 2014

Faith

THE LORD’S CHOSEN

Nasarawa set for pilgrimage in Mgbidi The Three-day Holy Ghost International Crusade of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries titled “God will make you to rejoice” will take place at The Lord’s Chosen International Secondary School Mgbidi Imo State on 3rd, 4th and 5th January 2015 at 8a.m daily. STANLEY CHIBUIHEM AMALAHA writes on the significance of the crusade

The Lord’s Chosen 2015 Mgbidi Crusade tagged, “God will make you to rejoice” promises to be the best ever held by the 12year old mega ministry

M

gbidi, the gateway to Imo State from the Niger, is a pilgrimage land of sort. It is one of the headquarters of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries where faithful converge annually for the Holy Ghost International Crusade. The forthcoming 2015 programme promises to be the best ever held by the 12-year old mega ministry says Pastor Lazarus Muoka, General Overseer of the ministry.

The event which comes every first weekend of January annually unarguably attracts the largest gathering

of any kind East of the Niger. It is accompanied with diverse signs and wonders with unprecedented power of God as of old where yokes are broken, sinners are saved, succour given to the sick, freedom for the captives and hope for the hopeless.

The title of the crusade: “God will make you to rejoice” is taken from the Book of Luke 7:12-16. “We are inviting people from all parts of the world to come and receive from the Lord.

As they come, the God Almighty must surely make them to rejoice,” says the distinguished man of God.

Pastor Lazarus Muoka, General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen CRM

A sign post of the Lord’s Chosen Nasarawa State Headquarters, Lafia

A cross section of Nasarawa State bretheren set for the crusade at Mgbidi

A section of choristers, youth, and other bretheren from Nasarawa State set for the crusade

Nasarawa State sisters of The Lord’s Chosen ready for the pilgrimage at Mgbidi

A section of children from The Lord’s Chosen Nasarawa State set for the crusade

Nasarawa State brothers of The Lord’s Chosen ready for the pilgrimage at Mgbidi

54

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Faith

Marriage has been heaven on earth –Bishop Ogba The presiding minister of the bourgeoning Kings Assembly Bible Church International in Aba, Abia State, Bishop John Ogba Eke, speaks about his life as a minister of God, marriage and other related issues with TAI ANYANWU What were your growing up years like?

My growing up years were not smooth. There was a time in my life that I couldn’t afford N20. But my walk with God has been from one stage to the other. I have lived in a small choking room; from there I moved into a fairly larger room.

I moved on from there to a two-room apartment and then to a flat. Now, I live in my own house. It has not been easy, but I don’t allow challenges weigh me down. I see challenges as stepping stones to where I’m going to. Even when I started Kings Assembly, I had reasons to close down the church.

But a brother, came all the way from Abuja to my office and said God told him to tell me that I shouldn’t do that thing I intend doing, because I have a glorious future.

Did you plan to become a pastor?

(Laughs) No, my dream in life was to be an architect, because I had a flair for building. After my secondary school education, I got born again, and God started redirecting my attention from being an architect of buildings to becoming a builder of men, then I knew I have a call from God. It took me 13 years to prepare myself for the task; I was actually trained by Kenneth Hagin. After my training, I did not jump into pastoring a church, because I was taught how to wait on God. In what way is your ministry unique from others?

I don’t compete with other ministries. I take instructions directly from God. There was a time that God said to me, ‘I want to introduce you to the society, and you will be on television.’ Then the church didn’t have any instruments, not even a physical altar. It was a new church, started in March and God said in September that I was going on air.

When I shared the vision with my people, some doubted.

But I went to Nigeria Television Authority, where I met with one Mrs. Grace Onyema. She led me to the Marketing Manager of the television house. During our conversation, I had no dime on me. By faith I returned and told my people that I was on the television. A day after, a lady who owed me N5000 came and paid up. God said to me, ‘That’s a seed for the television programme.’ I went to church the following Sunday and told my members that I was on television and that I was sowing a seed of N5000. Just then, people began to sow into the TV project, and that was how we started our television program in the year 1998. God specifically warned me when we started not to organise programmes; that programmes don’t build a church, but the spirit of God does.

How has it been running the ministry?

Before the church began, God gave me a building pattern, and we have been building the church based on that pattern. For instance, our vision is to raise kings. Our standard is excellence, our foundation is integrity, our model is Jesus Christ, our commission is to preach the counsel of God, and our destination is heaven. We don’t run the ministry by assumption. In all our branches, you will see excellence.

When we call for workers’ meeting, you will think it is a gathering of bankers.

Can you share with us your vision and core values?

Here, our first core value is spirituality. This year, we started with a 40-day fast for all members and 70 days for all pastors. I have done a 180-day fast. When you are not spiritual, you become carnal, and a carnal person does not receive anything from God. Here, we have a possibility mentality; we also have zeal for capacity building. We also take responsibility. I don’t believe in excuses. Here, giving an excuse is a sin. As a graduate of public administration, I run the church in such a way that, the church is 100 per cent peaceful. There is no person I cannot handle, even the devil.

And I can say authoritatively that all my pastors are loyal.

Would you say that the church in Nigeria has lived up to expectations?

The church is living up to expectations, but you cannot in anyway not fulfill God’s mandate. We are in the last days; there was never a time the gospel has been preached like now. In the 70s, there was nothing like satellites. Virtually all technological means of spreading the gospel are being utilised, such as Twitter, Facebook and so on, but in the last days the love of many shall wax cold, unless the prophecy of Christ will not be fulfilled. The church is playing its role but why we are not having much impact now is because we are in the last days.

What has God told you about Nigeria?

Nigeria cannot divide; the size of Nigeria gives us an edge in Africa. One of the characteristics of a state is that it is indivisible, and there is no external interference. Nigeria cannot disintegrate; it is not in the programme of God. Because by now Ojukwu and Orkah would have disintegrated Nigeria.

God has a plan for Nigeria, and Nigeria has an influence in the entire world. If you look at the map of Africa, it’s like a gun, and Nigeria is at the trigger, so Nigeria is prophetically positioned for these end-time challenges. There is no country like Nigeria when it comes to the gospel. God has a programme for Nigeria. Nigerians are pastoring mega churches all over the world, and that’s why the devil is attacking us.

What phase in God’s plan do you think Abia State is going through right now?

Abia is Gods own state but unfortunately Abia was initiated into idolatry, and that’s why Abia is still in a mess.

Other South-East states are better off in terms of development. We believe God that He will answer our prayers, and soon God will give us a leader who will take us to the Promised Land.

How did you meet Chioma?

I met her by divine arrangement. We got to know when

Ogba I was invited to preach in a fellowship where she was a member, Young Businessmen’s Fellowship. After the meeting she came for another programme in my church. From there she came to my office, and God told me: ‘That’s your wife.’ I struggled with that for two years, but each time she came close to me, I had peace.

How has married life been?

It’s been heaven on earth. Nothing has ever come in between us.

What’s your advice for the unmarried?

Look for a partner that fears God, and has wisdom. I married my wife as a virgin. When she was earning N2,500 she was paying a tithe of N1000. Every person in the ministry respects my wife.

What are your expectations for the ministry in the next 10 years?

I believe that the future you cannot picture, you cannot feature. I am a man of vision. In the next 10 years, we should have planted 100 churches. We have a master plan to build the King City, which is a world class structure, having in it our university, hospital, prayer camp and lots more.

I take notes when my son is preaching – Oyedepo CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 5 1

with him, occupying key leadership positions in the ministry.

During one of the main Shiloh events tagged ‘Encounter Hour,’ which takes off at 7pm, the wife of the bishop recounted how God delivered her from destruction and death.

“It will be recalled that the devil struck me again with sickness last year. In fact by this time during last year’s Shiloh, I was very sick and was not present at most of the events. But through the prayers of the saints and the unflinching faith of my husband in God, my life was spared and I am fully restored to stand at this exalted altar to minister the everlasting gospel. I give all the glory to God,” she declared.

Indeed, the 16th edition of Shiloh was filled with testimonies from worshippers who came the previous year with one challenge or the other.

With the current spate of bombings in the country, security was very tight.

Right at the entrance of the church, the Nigeria Police anti-bomb squad checked persons and vehicles entering the premises. The police, military, road safety and church security officers were on patrol to ensure that the lives and property of worshippers were properly secured. All Shiloh worshippers were also admonished to maintain vigilance and to report any suspicious movements in the course of the event to the church officials. A Shiloh security intervention hotline

was also provided in the church bulletin and announced continuously.

The event ended on Saturday morning with an anointing service. It was also a time, members of the church give an offering called ‘Shiloh sacrifice,’ which could be in cash or materials for God’s intervention in their affairs in the year 2015.

Pastors from other ministries were in attendance. They include Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries, Port Harcourt and Pastor Sam Adeyemi of Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos.

Among dignitaries at Shiloh 2014 were the wives of the governors of Bayelsa, Kwara and Cross River states.

55

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Faith

Does it mean anything to you?

Mystery ofAnxiety John Ogbansiegbe

0803 341 6327

I

t will be tantamount to self-deception to feel that holiness is not for all Christians or that it is a special gift for certain great men of God. Holiness is for everybody. Yes, for every one that has the hope of Heaven. The Bible says that every man who has Christ is pure. (1stJohn 3 vs 3).

Holiness is a possibility. You can be holy

by God’s standard of holiness; it can be done. The fact cannot be gainsaid that there were saints, believers in Christ and born-again Christians that practised holiness successfully unto the end. St. Paul said, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).

Again, he said, “For I am crucified with Christ. Nevertheless, I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me, and the life which I now live, I live by the faith of the son of

God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20).

In view of the foregoing, therefore, holiness is the outward manifestation of the inward Christ in the life of a Christian believer. The question now is: Are you holy? Do you see it as an inevitable condition for heaven? Does it mean anything to you? Or have you allowed the current ‘it doesn’t matter’ spirit to swallow it?

Ponder and mediate on these questions.

If we look around in the world today, we shall see abundant evidence of ungodliness. I mean ungodliness in every high and low place. People who are expected to be holy are no more holy. What is rather common is that which St. Paul by the Holy Ghost wrote unto Timothy: Having a form of Godliness, but denying the power thereof, from such turn away.”

(2nd Timothy 3vs.5). Godliness without holiness is simply self-deceit and useless hypocrisy. Ungodliness is one of the great signs of the last days and many people are guilty of ungodliness, both in their thoughts and actions.

Many people may be struggling to become holy. They take decisions and make efforts towards perfect holiness, only to find them yielding to the same carnal temptations again and again. Yet, God demands perfect holiness from all those who believes in holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrew 12vs

“In righteousness shalt thou be established, thou shalt be far from oppression for thou shalt not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near thee.” (Isaiah 54:14).

14). The word of God here is not talking about simple peripheral holiness but it’s rather pointing to a high standard of holiness. This is the standard of holiness that will enable you to obtain and enjoy special daily favour from God. This is why holiness is one of the fundamental channels of favour.

God is also talking about a present continuous holiness that will enable a believer to see the face of the Lord at the end. This standard of holiness makes every spiritual pretence useless. The truth is that right now, you are either holy or unholy. Your argument may be that you have not done anything carnal with any man or woman. The question is: does your life bear evidence of a perfect heart of holiness? Are you completely free from sinful imaginations and thoughts? Do you realise that envy, bitterness, hatred,

quarrelling and all evil words point to ungodliness of the heart? You cannot boast of purity in your heart when it is full of evil thoughts. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (Matthew 5 vs. 8). From the provisions of the above scripture therefore, it is crystal clear that holiness and righteousness are pure and direct channels to divine favour. As credence to Matthew 5 vs. 8, the word of God also declared, “In righteousness shalt thou be established, thou shalt be far from oppression for thou shalt not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near thee.” (Isaiah 54:14).

The first step to entering into these channels of favour is to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour. Judge yourself now before it is too late. Any man or woman who has not yet received our Lord Jesus Christ as his or her personal Lord and Saviour has rejected the love of God. Thus, the word of God declared: “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten son into the world that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His son to be the propitiation for our sins.” (1st John 4:9-10).

As you accept the Lord Jesus Christ today, may you be launched into these favour channels in the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Priesthood: The Biblical pattern the of

Oracles God

Frank Oboden Olomukoro frankolomukoro@yahoo.com

0703 362 1866

God’s Word Is Yea And Amen God became the guarantor for all the things He planned, all that He promised, all that He said, and all that He proclaimed through His messengers. Indeed, God is also my guarantor that His word is the absolute truth in my mouth, the way it was with Elijah (1 King 17:24) and with Paul (1 Thess. 2:13) and with Peter as well (1 Peter 1:25); exactly as it came forth from His mouth (Isaiah 55:10-11). In preaching the gospel or espousing the infallible truth of God’s word, it is never said, it could be this way or that way “But God’s word was always” yes and Amen!. It was never “yes and No.” The guarantee for all of God’s promises is in Him, our Lord Jesus Christ.

The word made flesh is the central point of our proclamation. Therefore, we emphasise it once again, for all the promises of God in Him are yea…” So that through us the Amen – the fulfillment – can come to pass. Amen means “so be it.”

Christ, the first and the last baptism of the spirit, revealing the divine nature of Christ life in us, all the gifts of the spirit, all the fruits of the spirit, and all the ministries will truly be the same. All things will be restored to their original condition. Every doctrine and every practice recorded in the Bible collectively are forever the pattern for the New Testament Church (Acts 2:42), for the word of God remains forever (Isaiah 40:8, 1 Peter 1:25).

Therefore, whoever God sends does not proclaim interpretations but God’s Holy, infallible Word in the original form. All who are of God hear and believe what and the scripture says and how it says it.

They take the final warning seriously, do not add to the completed testimony of God and do not take anything away from it (Rev. 22:18-21). The main purpose of this exposition is to show that the Lord Jesus Christ has a revealed pattern of the priesthood in the Old Testament and all were pointers or shadows of Jesus Christ as the High Priest and sacrificed Lamb in the New Testament. So God reveals Himself for each specific task, according to the divine plans of salvation as Lamb of God, as Mediator, as Advocate etc.

The Old And New Testament Ministries Defined In the Old Testament, two ministries were functionally outstanding; and they were the ministry of the PROPHETS and the Teaching-PRIEST. The prophets in particular operated diversely, doing the work Our Faith Must Be As The Apostles’ of an Evangelist, exemplified in Jonah The true church of Jesus Christ (not the who was sent to Nineveh to preach repenexisting denominational churches) which tance to avert God’s impending judgment.

He Himself redeemed (1 Peter 3:18) and Others did the work of an Apostle exactly which He Himself builds (Matt. 16:18), as Elijah did; setting in order and restorreturns to the beginning, to the Word ing the backsliding nation of Israel from that has been proclaimed since the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) to the teaching that came the worship of Baal to the worship of God. The Priesthood is basically the pastoral forth from Jerusalem, from mount Zion (Isaiah 2:3, Acts 2). The Apostles’ doctrines work coupled with the responsibility of teaching the law of Moses to the people. must be emphasised anew each time: in In the New Testament, we notably have the church of the first born (Heb.12:23), the fivefold ministry. “And he gave some, the first and the last sermon, the first and the last water baptism in the name of Jesus apostles; and some, prophets; and some,

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach evangelist; and some, pastors and teachers. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-12).

Some of these offices grew into greater responsibilities beyond their immediate local assembly to overseeing other younger local pastors as Overseers or Bishops.

“A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach.” (1 Timothy 3:1-7) Apostle Paul operated in this capacity while also being the pastor of the Ephesians church.

The Deacon is another scriptural position the Lord recommended for administrative service in the body of Christ.

“Likewise must the deacons be grave, not double tongued, … the husband of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. (1 Timothy 3:8-13). In Acts 6:1-6, this responsibilities were clearly defined “…. It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we (the apostles) will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

Religious Titles And Offices The thinking of God as to whom He calls into the ministry is very clear. God is not ambiguous, neither is He the author of confusion. Rather, it is man that is the stimulant for confusion through interpretations and human wisdom. But the scriptures, the Word of God, are all sufficient as a lamp to guide our feet, in all issues and

subjects of the faith. Paul put it this way lucidly: “But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God. (1 Cor. 11:16) God is the God of orderliness, there is no variableness in Him and He does not change His thoughts and pattern in the evolving face of civilisation or modern views. “Let all things be done decently and in order (1 Cor. 14:40). King David summed it up appropriately, “…for that we sought him not after the due order.”

At this point, we must establish the fact that religious titles and offices created without scriptural root are the formulations of man and products of organised religion. This is one reason why God hates organised religion and why He is against denominations. They are opposed to God’s commandments through ecclesiastical traditions. “How be it in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” All traditions of the church without inherent Biblical support are an addition to the word of God. God’s judgment is clearly defined: “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book. And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the Holy city and from the things which are written in this book.” (Rev. 22:18-19).

What are the additions? Doctrines taught and practised but which are not written in the Bible. Where do we place such numerous titles and crowns that are outside the context of the fivefold ministry of prophets, apostles, evangelist, teachers, pastors being paraded about by the very custodians of the laws of God? The offices of the “Archbishop, Cardinals, Pope, Deaconess, General Superintendent (G.S.), “General” Overseer (G.O.), “Superior/ Supreme” Evangelist, Lady Evangelist emanated from the Bible too? The sanctuary is not a place for activism.

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Faith

He who has ears to hear Firm Faith:

Right Reason Most Rev.

Emmanuel A. Badejo fradebadejo@yahoo.

0803 949 4219 (SMS only)

Do you love your neighbour?

Ask anyone down your street today, “do you love your neighbour”? The unmitigated answer would be: “Yes I do”. Convention and practice has made us all assume a place in the homophile team. People who do not love their neighbours are always the others, not us. A minimal knowledge of Scripture has also conditioned Christians to know that the central message of the Gospel is the supreme commandment: “...love your neighbour as yourself”. True love is transformative in a positive way, seeking the safety and growth of the other.

In a depressed and troubled society as ours, not everyone possesses the power or the resources to directly transform situations around them. All, however can speak up where there is imminent danger to the neighbour or to the common good.

Can a Woman forget her baby?

Parents dearly love their children, at least they are supposed to. Genuine Yoruba parents, for example, value the good of their children more than anything. They would dispense of anything in order to give their children good education without giving a thought to the sacrifice. The Biblical query: “Can a woman forget the baby at her breast and have no compas-

sion on the child of her womb?” (Is 49:15), really fits such disposition. The Holy Family of Mary, Joseph and Jesus give us a good reference point for this. Joseph, a carpenter, did not hesitate to take a trip to faraway Egypt, from home and business in order to save Jesus from Herod. Jesus’ parents went looking for him everywhere before they found him in the temple.

After he was found, “Jesus went down with them; returning to Nazareth, and he continued to be subject to them... And Jesus increased in wisdom and age, and in divine and human favour” (Lk. 2; 51-52).

The love of parents for their children therefore includes steering them away from evil and bringing them up in the fear of God, in good character and conduct.

The danger at the door At this period some promoters of decadent and dangerous Western Culture are sowing evil and having a field day in Nigeria. They are executing to the hilt a well-planned scheme to aggressively promote Western style sex education and a contraceptive culture for all strata of Nigerian society under an alarmist claim that Nigeria’s population is exploding out of proportion. This theory is a contested imbroglio which deliberately ignores bad leadership, corruption and other factors as the real reasons why Nigerians cannot find work, good health care or education.

Even if this deceit were to be condoned, the term “family planning” ought to be selfexplanatory. As one of my friends said, “It should mean the planning of one’s family and should concern married, committed couples who actually have a family to plan.

It should be family-centred and it should connote self-mastery and self discipline and self-control... It should not be destructive or detrimental to health of mind and

love your neighbour as yourself ”. True love is transformative in a positive way, seeking the safety and growth of the other body”.

The deafening silence I believe that this should be a reasonable line of thought for any person of goodwill. However the powerful lobby which converged in Abuja some weeks ago to nudge the Nigerian government to open its treasury to Western decadent contraceptive culture as the best means of population control and fund all forms of artificial family planning methods had other ideas.

Composed of 11 of the wealthiest and most powerful pro-abortion sponsors in the world the group is committed to teaching the most graphic methods of contraception and abortion to young people and teenagers without regard for age or religious conviction. Its so-called family planning package is aggressively taught to youth who, at this stage of their life, should really have no family to plan in the first place.

That package has nothing to say about self-control, fidelity, patience or marriage. It proposes only unrestrained, immoral and harmful artificial family planning as a solution to all the problems of young people.

It is curious that parents and the general public do not see the need to rally against this harmful movement that teaches no wholesome values and compromises even the family, the basic cell of society.

Youth life on mortgage The conference in Abuja reportedly sought to normalize sex outside of marriage among Nigerian youths. It held presentations like “Addressing the Family Planning service needs of youth”. Just imagine the richest organizations in the world, not addressing the education needs, employment concerns or even the security needs of Nigeria but are so concerned about marginal “family planning needs” of the youth while spreading the fear that unwanted pregnancy is the greatest problem of Nigeria in these contemporary times! They therefore vow to make contraceptives available to impressionable youths and children with explicit information on their use with no mention about the side effects which are well associated with these devises and means. Nor is there even a hint in their presentations of Natural Family Planning which the Church has promoted for years, has been practiced by families and endorsed as safe, practicable, and commended as enhancing love and affection in the families.

How this approach can possibly benefit the future of the youth and the general public remains a mystery!

For those who have ears The Catholic Bishops of Nigeria in a statement issued last week about the procontraception and abortion lobby, warned: “We hereby call on all... to study the issues thoroughly and deploy all media, grassroots/pastoral organs to correctly inform our people of the risks they run by patronizing these means and methods.

No one has a right to suspend parental guidance and spiritual care by the Church from the life of our people and especially the youth”. Those who have ears to hear let them hear.

I am coming out of this pit

ave you been believing God for breakthrough or answers to those salient issues in your life and engaging in a series of spiritual exercises? Perhaps you might be wondering what has been happening to those days of waiting patiently on God, more especially now that the year is fast coming to an end.

Jesus, if only you can trust Him. Perhaps, you are asking why everything is tough for you while your friends seem to be finding things easy.

To you, it seems virtually an impossible task to secure admission, or to even get involved in any relationship or to even secure a job; everything just seems absolutely tough and all working against you. Beloved, it is tough because the devil, in his pursuit to stop you, has staged subtle devices to harass and terminate your divine appointment with destiny. The enemy doesn’t go after nonentities, rather he invests his ‘precious’ time on ‘meaningful’ projects; in other words, he exerts and channels his time and resources towards or on the lives he considers to be his ‘gold mine.’

That is to say, the enemy knows there is so much concerning you, therefore, he is out to frustrate you.

“I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.” Ps 40:1-3 (KJV) I don’t know what you are believing God for. I don’t know what you have been waiting on Him for, but I know a God that makes miracles out of the mess of life, I know the only Supreme Being who is in the business of making miracles happen when all hopes seem to be lost. Hence, you are coming out that pit in which you seem to have been buried and forgotten, in the name of

Your redeemer is strong The devil has seen something precious in you worth stealing, killing and destroying; he has seen the word of God in you and that is the reason for being after you. When a manufacturer produces his wares, he puts his trademark and pushes it into the market for sale and subsequent consumption. Likewise, you must understand that God, who is your Maker, has not abandoned you but He is on the standby to deliver you from your hopeless and helpless situation.

“For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.” Prov 23:11 (KJV) I want you to have this conviction in your heart that God is close by and you

Insight Rev.

Femi Akinola

www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

H

Hence, you are coming out that pit in which you seem to have been buried and forgotten, in the name of Jesus, if only you can trust Him are coming out of that pit in the name of Jesus. You are not alone because your Redeemer is strong and mighty. He knows that the adversary is out to rejoice over you in that your lowly estate and the good news is that, He, God is coming for you. Shout it and say, ‘God is coming for me and I believe in the name of Jesus.’

“He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.” Psalms 40:2 (KJV) What kind of pit are you in now?

Another version of the Bible says: ‘He pulled me out of the dangerous pit.’

You have been called all sorts of names and labelled a failure because of your unpalatable situation. Little does your adversary know that you have an ontime Helper who never fails and who is never late. I have come to realise that God doesn’t come when you think He is coming, rather He comes when you have given up. Because you have given up all hope and expectation, God is coming for you in the name of Jesus Christ. When the death of Lazarus was announced to Jesus, here is what the

Bible records: “When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.” John 11:4-6 (KJV) Jesus delayed His going because He wanted men to see the glory of God in the life of Lazarus. He does not desire that you rot in that pit; there is a coming glory that will terrify your enemies and mockers. According to the rites and beliefs of the Hebrews, after three days, the spirit is no longer resident in the body of the deceased. Little wonder they bemoaned His lateness but they also lacked foresight that God can never be late and there is no impossibility in His calendar. What is the pit you think you are in now that you cannot smile again; friends and family members have deserted you, even your doctor has made you believe you have come to the end of the road concerning child bearing. Even the way things are going in your finances, shame seems to be imminent. Relax, because your Maker has the final say and He will show up concerning your case. Before this year runs out, you shall smile again. If it took God six days to create the Universe, so let me tell you that He can never be late and He will bring you out of that pit of shame and disgrace in the name of Jesus.

To be continued...

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Faith

What favour will do for you Taming your Emotions Bishop

Lawrence Osagie 0806 325 0667 www.powerlineministriesinc.org mail:powerlineministries@mail.com

I

n Genesis Chapter 6, we read the story of a man who lived in a perverse generation. Noah lived in a time and season when people were misbehaving against God. Noah found favour in the sight of God. Because of the grace and favour of God, God revealed to him His own secret plan to destroy the whole world. In like manner, I have seen and experienced God reveal deep secrets of things to come, especially the wicked plot of the evil ones. God in His infinite mercy and love shows His children dangers that are ahead and shows possible ways of escape. When evil is coming to your family, it will be the favour of God that will make you have a pre-knowledge of it.

It is remarkable to notice that Noah was separated from the destruction, shame, reproach, untimely death, calamity and disaster that befell his

generation because he found favour with God. Favour brings the umbrella of protection upon a family, a people, a business and even a nation. Noah’s children did not have to be swept away by the flood, not even his wife, dogs or whatever it was that belonged to Noah in the days of that calamity and disaster.

If you are a father and you are walking in favour, it does not matter where your children are, the favour of God upon you will be a shield upon their lives. I don’t care where you locate your business, even in a foreign country; the favour of God will locate it there. Why? Because God has chosen to favour you, not because of what you have done but because you are His choice. Do you know that your salvation came by favour?

That is why you should not boast for we are saved by grace not by works, lest any man should boast.

Jesus said, “You have not chosen me but I have chosen you that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your first fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask the Father in my name, He may give it you.” (John 15:16). God made a choice, not you. It is symbolic to note here that we are a choice made by God. It was Him who said, “Let us make man in our own image and likeness.” Jesus illustrating it in the scripture said, “I chose you that you should go and bear fruit.

A man living under the favour of God lives a blissful life; having everything put in place by divine providence.

You have nothing to boast about your success and spirituality. Therefore, humble yourself before God

Fruition here symbolises success and increase. It symbolises health and wealth for it takes a healthy tree to bring forth fruits. He also said your fruit should remain, guaranteeing security and protection. He crowned that promise with a blank cheque in the form of a petition, saying: Whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name will be granted you. This is what I mean by wonders of favour.

A man living under the favour of God lives a blissful life; having everything put in place by divine providence. You have nothing to boast about your success and spirituality.

Therefore, humble yourself before God. Favour is not fair; if favour is fair somebody like Saul of Tarsus should

not be saved not to talk of him becoming an apostle and receiving the grace to write the biggest part of the New Testament. What made him to be named among the apostles was simply favour. When God begins to say yes to a man, no matter how much you hate that man your no is irrelevant. Why? Because the favour of God is irrevocable. It doesn’t how upset you are: the more upset you are the more favour God will pour on the man.

Favour is not defined by the rationale of men. If it were so, David would not have anything to do with the throne of Israel. Of him we read that when Samuel came to the house of Jesse to anoint a king for Israel, his father paraded children from the first to the least and forgot about him; even to acceptance of Samuel the prophet but God insisted on His preference.

David was the Lord’s choice and everybody had to wait until the Lord’s chosen arrived the coronation scene.

God used all these to demonstrate that He is not a man; His ways are higher than the ways of men. And this is why I feel confident that He inspired this message with you in mind.

He is about to reveal His glory in your life the way He never did before. The earlier you learn that the better for you so that you can live long on earth and not die of hypertension. Follow me spiritually as we unfold the triggers of favour.

Why I speak in tongues Word of Life

Bishop

Moses Kattey

moseskattey@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

W

ith our tongues we will prevail. This is a very powerful statement found in Psalm 12:4. This is one of the reasons I resolved to use my tongues.

What is tongue?

Tongue is a language. It is a particular way of speaking. It is the soft part of the mouth used for tasting, swallowing and speaking (oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, 6th Edition).

Tongue is a human language that some persons understand. English language is a tongue. English language is a way of speaking. French language is a tongue and a way of speaking. Some persons understand this language while some do not.

There are tongues of men and of angels.

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels (1Corinthians 13:1).

The scripture above says I can speak both tongues of men and of angel but if I do so without love, I am nothing. I can also speak in unknown tongues. You can do the same, and when we speak the ones we do not understand, we speak:

---- Not to men, but unto God; for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries (1Corinthians 14:2).

When we speak in unknown tongues, our spirit is praying, and that is why we are not able to understand it.

What is it then? I will pray with the spirit and I will pray with the understanding also; I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the understanding also (1Corinthians 14:15).

In the context of this writing, tongues simply apply to the word I speak with my tongues without understanding what I say. It means praying with my spirit. An example is what is stated in Isaiah 9:5.

For every battle of the warriors is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood, but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire.

I simply, by faith, utter words one would consider as noise. As I do this, warfare begins. Something happens somewhere-especially where I direct my prayer to and if I am in the mood of prayer.

When one prays in tongues or in the spirit as St. Paul called it (1Corinthians 14:2; 14,15), the person sounds as “sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal” (1Corinthians13:1). It is like speaking meaningless words: “into the air” (1Corinthians 14: 9), but none of the things you speak is without significance.

There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. Therefore, if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbar-

I simply, by faith, utter words one would consider as noise. As I do this, warfare begins. Something happens somewhereespecially where I direct my prayer to and if I am in the mood of prayer. ian and him that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me (1Corinthians 14:10,11)

Jesus Christ And Tongues How important is tongues to Our Lord Jesus Christ? What is the rank of tongues according to Him? 15.

And He said unto them, go and preach the gospel to every creature, 16.

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be dammed.

17.

And these signs shall follow them that believe, in my name shall they cast out devils, they shall speak with new tongues.

18. They shall take up serpents’ and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hand on the sick and they shall recover (Mark 16:15-18).

These words must be taken literally if they must be fulfilled in our lives. Take a look at the classmates of speaking in tongues: Casting out devils Speaking with new tongues Taking up serpents unharmed

Taking poison unharmed Lay hand on the sick to heal We know why devil must be cast out.

We know why He must protect us from serpents. We know why He has to protect us from poisons.

We know why the sick must be healed by laying of hands.

We also must know why we must speak with new tongues.

We should not attempt to rationalize things. They are all a class, to be accepted together or rejected together. How does one attempt to rationalize these words of St. Paul?

I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all (1Corinthians 14:18).

The only thing in that class Bible did not record that St. Paul did was taking poison unharmed. He healed the sick. He cast out devils. He also handled serpent unharmed. He even laid hand on persons and they spoke in tongues (Holy Ghost Baptism). (Acts 28:3-6, 14:8;13,16:16-18, and 19:1-12).

And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied, and All the men were about twelve (Acts 19:6-7).

And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: 12.

So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them. (Act 19:11-12) 3. And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

Advertise your church events, special programmes, conventions and other church activities on these pages. Contact: Tai on 07064380029

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Christians must embrace social media evangelism – Ehizode

Pastor Titus Ehizode is a renowned social media evangelist and the General Overseer, The Victorious Christian Life Ministry, Golden Tulip Hotel, Festac. He is also the Secretary General, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, FESTAC Chapter. He addresses issues on social media evangelism in this interview with CHIJIOKE IREMEKA Recently, churches have been discovered to be losing young people to the world.

What really are the causes of this drift and what is the remedy?

We have to go back to our Christian core values. You discover that nowadays, churches are going worldly, trying to copy the world. We have lost a lot in our fellowship with God, copying the world that should be imitating us for transformation.

The pattern which Christians employ in service to God is quite different from that of the world. You cannot use a worldly pattern for divine assignment. And why are we losing the youths in the church? This is because we try to follow the trend of the event to modernise our messages and it’s not having an impact on the youths.

The youths are hungry to encounter God through their relationship and fellowship with God, but what they get is not in that desired direction. As a result of this, they are moving outside the church to get this satisfaction because you hardly can differentiate between the church and the world.

In fact, there is a kind of fellowship and relationship between the church and the world, and instead of the church to stand out, it is now emulating the world. It’s wrong and shouldn’t be. We have to return the youths to God with several programmes that would appeal to both their physical and spiritual lives.

What steps should then be taken to return the young people to God? The first step to be taken is to first address their mindset, look at the areas of genuine transformation, which means, knowing Jesus Christ. This is because, when we are born again, the man doesn’t get born again.

The man is a tribal being that has a soul and lives in a body, and it’s the spirit of man that gets born again. Then, through the renewing of the mind, by the word of God the soul and the man are transformed. So we need to work towards transforming their minds first.

We need to renew their minds in the things of God and redirect their hearts to God. They should be able, through the teachings of the church, to set their minds on the things that are above and every other thing they are looking for outside the church will be added unto them.

The Bible says we should seek first the kingdom of God and its righteousness and every other thing shall be added unto us.

But the problem is that, we have left God and are seeking after those things that are secondary in our lives.

I remember that the revival we enjoy today started from Scripture Union in those days. Then, it had a content value aimed at addressing our spirituality. But what do we have today? The content value of what we have today is not addressing our spiritual values. It addresses the carnal desires of our youths.

And this is where the problem lies. Until we come back to God, pursue righteousness as well as the standard and pattern of God, we will not achieve true revolution in the body of Christ, which the youths will bring about. The three Hebrews youth transformed Babylon. So, the revolution will come if the youths return to God. The youths are the ones that would take over from us, so why should we let them go? The kingdom of God is likened unto

them. Seek and serve God in the days of youth when you will find Him. What kind of programmes do you recommend that would help to gather the youths for the Lord?

There must be empowerment programmes that have to do with mindset transformation. These programmes would address genuine transformation.

Programmes for youths and singles should be preached and treated. There should be programmes that would address the needs of the youths because their needs are quite different from those of the adults.

The message is still the same but the methodology differs. In reaching them also, we should be able to meet them where they are. Where are these people? They are everywhere around social media and we have to go there and meet them.

We can’t shy away from it. There, we can meet them and have them, rededicate and offer their lives to God as living sacrifices, acceptable unto God. A number of pastors believe that social media is wild for them to be part of, how then are these youth going to be reached through social media evangelism?

Yes, a lot of people believe that social media is bad because of social vices that are there. But if the Christians shy away from social media evangelism, then Satan will have advantage over the church of God and take the youth away from God. We should be able to go there and rescue our youths from Satan. It’s easier to reach the youths there because they can access any information on their phones. The earlier we begin to engage them in that aspect the better for the church because we can reach our children there.

I have been able to reach quite a number of people on social media and it’s mindboggling the feedback I get on a daily basis. People are giving their lives to God. So, why do we have to shy away from it?

I make use of Facebook, Whatapp, Twitter and others to evangelise.

In fact, one of the people that God converted through my fellowship and messages on social media is currently inviting me to preach in their church in Amsterdam next year. A lot of pastors condemn social media but they don’t know that more people could be reached via social media than one-on-one evangelism.

From Nigeria, you can reach people in London, which one-on-one evangelism will not allow afford you the opportunity. From my room, I preach to people in US and every other place and they are giving their lives to Christ.

The feedback is overwhelming and those that are born again are in various churches across the globe. Also, in the church where I preached recently in New York was as a result of someone I encountered on Facebook.

Also, I was invited to preach in the UK by somebody I led to Christ.

It happened that when her pastor saw the life she was living in Christ Jesus and he asked her the pastor that followed her up, she told him. And that was how I was invited to preach. So, through social media we are able to reach a wide range of people and they are growing in the Lord.

What gives me the utmost joy is not the invitation per se but the new life that they

living in Christ today. This is what matters to God. That’s being born again, working with the Lord, growing in the Lord, and also wining souls for the Lord.

Evangelism is an aspect of Christian obligation that seems to be dying fast. How do we rekindle the fire of evangelism in the lives of believers?

I wouldn’t say evangelism is fast dying because there are people that are inclined to it. But the truth of the matter is that the method with which we reach out to people now is changing.

In those days, we reached to people through tracts. For me, I used to preach and reach people via one-on-one interaction and social media. With that I have been able to reach a big number of people on a daily basis.

Those days, banners and posters were used but you don’t have them again because of the new laws, especially in Lagos State. I think we need to embark on aggressive evangelism and we need to use different Godly means to achieve this goal.

In aggressive evangelism, we have to mobilise everyone. People should be passionate about it and not passive. Today, instead of Christians reaching out to people, they are busy doing other things. In reaching out to the people, we have look at the unbelievers, not trying to evangelise the believers.

Some of the programmes we have today are designed to attract the believers instead of attracting sinners. This is a problem. As a result of this, what we have today is the migration of Christians from one church to the other.

So, our evangelism should be designed in the form that it reaches the unbelievers and makes them come to the knowledge of the truth. Currently, we have not been hearing the salvation testimonies. What we hear are the testimonies of new cars and new houses among others.

They are good but the greatest testimony is that of salvation. What we call joy in heaven is not that you bought a new car but one sinner truly repents and comes to God. The Bible s a y s there is joy in heaven o v e r o n e person

Faith

that repents. We have to return to Christ and preach the message of the kingdom, which Jesus Christ preached.

When we are kingdom-minded, then we will know that this great commission is not given to pastors alone, but to every believer.

We should encourage people to go out there and evangelise.

The problem we have now in doing this is the church. The kingdom will make you to go for genuine evangelism but the churches will make you to build fences around your church and warn your members not to mingle with other believers. It’s wrong.

Christmas is around the corner and many people are struggling to do one thing or the other to celebrate. What is your advice to Christians in a time like this?

Christians and non-Christians should understand that the wining and dining is not the reason for the season. In a bid to impress one person or the other, many people go into crime. That shouldn’t be. We should be careful of the spirit of excess, trying to spend beyond our earnings and subscribing to waste.

Yes, we will eat and drink but we should understand the reason for the season says a child was born and that child became the Saviour of the whole world. If we must celebrate that child, we should look at what the child stands for.

We should realise that the child came to preach love, repentance, tolerance, and we must follow those commandments the child gave, which says love your neighbour as yourself.

If we love one another, we won’t sin against one another. If we love one another, we will not go and covert one another’s property or harm anyone. We must go back to the foundation, which is love.

The love in question is not human, emotional or conditional love, but agape love, which is God’s injected unconditional love.

When we do this and understand what love is all about, then we will get it right.

A lot of evil thrives in this season because a lot of people want to impress somebody by announcing their arrival; but that is not the issue. The issue is that we have to look at ourselves and ask a reflective question if we really know the ‘child’ that we are celebrating. Jesus is the reason for the celebration and such a celebration should renew our relationship with Jesus, the Saviour of mankind. Happy Christmas!

Sport 59

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

Football

Hazard’s goal seals Chelsea victory

p.62

Sand Eagles

Sand Eagles suffer first Copa defeat p.62

Golf

Port Harcourt Golf Club hails sponsors p.61

Interview

Copa Lagos Beach Soccer has come to stay, says 1960Bet boss p.61

Sunday Team

Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu Golf Reporter Ifeanyi Ibeh

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Dudu-Orumen:

Keshi’s technically obtuse

He’s the first Nigerian to resign his position in the Nigeria Football Federation as a Technical Committee member, Godwin Dudu-Orumen, a firebrand sports critic told DAPO SOTUMINU in this exclusive interview that the Super Eagles is a good brand whose top qualities were ruined by team’s coach, Stephen Keshi, who is technically dull-witted The Super Eagles of Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2015 African Nations Cup, what do you think is the implication of this to the future of Nigerian football and sports generally?

I think it is time to at least take stock and be truthful to ourselves that the country’s football is not all about the Super Eagles. We need to repackage our thinking and ensure that we are developing the game to bring the fans to the stadium.

We were all witnesses to the 2014 Federation Cup finals played at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos, it was quality football in my opinion, but unfortunately the fans did not see it attractive enough to come and watch, that is where the sporting press needed to work a little more instead of reporting Chelsea, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Arsenal and Liverpool in the English Premier League. We should be talking about our football, lets ask people to come and see that there are more to our football. By so doing, the media would be able to challenge the system and even the national team coaches on selection of players so that Nigeria don’t just wake up someday to find out that we do not have a national team again just as it is happening today.

Unfortunately, there is collateral damage with Nigeria’s failure to book a ticket to play in the 2015, so much money on advertising things that would have trickled down the system, by my rough calculation a little over N17.5billion already earmarked to be spent if the Eagles had booked a place in the 2015 Nations Cup. With ten banks, six telecoms, brewery and insurance companies already budgeted this huge sum to be spent in Equatorial Guinea.

It would have trickled down to the vulcanizers of this world, but this won’t happen again because one man thinks he owns the national team of Nigeria.

Stephen Keshi was just dense and his smashing ego got him in the way, and unfortunately Mr. President got himself involved in all of these by reversing what appeared to me a very responsible decision by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, to sack the Eagles’ chief coach.

But there is no point crying over spilled milk, an opportunity has

presented itself for us to tell ourselves some bitter truth and ensure that we develop a football polity that delivers on all fronts.

What would you advise the NFF to do more so when the Eagles won’t be engaged in any major championship until the 2017 African Nations Cup and the 2018 World Cup? After chatting with some of the people at the football federation, I must tell you that I have confidence in their ability and with the kind of things they told they were going to do which are in tandem with my own thinking, I am optimistic they would do well. As it is, we need to give them support so that they can navigate us away from this pit where we dropped into.

I know a lot of people won’t like this, but the truth about that matter is that coaching the senior national team is beyond any Nigerian coach.

The Super Eagles is a super brand that needs to be tutored and managed by a top of the shelve foreign coach. Some people have argued that foreign coaches have not done so well in the Eagles, but the truth is that, those coaches who failed to do

well were the ones the NFF brought three months to a major competition. They definitely cannot do anything positive as the time was just too short for them to achieve any meaningful successes.

To plan for a World Cup takes a minimum of four years, so if Nigeria gets a top notch foreign coach now, pay him good money, let him give us a programme that is good for the kind of money he is asking for. And the money we can get from sponsorship, broadcast, appearance, endorsement fees and all of that. From these, we can get monies in the region of $250million.

From here, hiring a top notch foreign coach can be financed, one that commands the respect of kit sponsors and endorsement partners.

And the NFF in my opinion has the ideas of how to navigate our football from its present throes to a winning level. Yes, Nigeria may not win the FIFA World Cup title, but we would be there in real quality and substance.

The NFF over the years has been guilty of the failure to develop the game from the grassroots, all they

are interested in is competition.

What is your opinion about this?

The new board headed by Amaju Pinnick has a committee in-charge of that and the first vice-president, Seyi Akinwunmi, who is also the Lagos FA boss which has distinguished itself with the Eko Football League and its development is ready to translate what is happening in Lagos to the national federation. I run a football academy and we have participated in many grassroots activities in Lagos.

I am sure he is going to move this to the national level together. With his other colleagues I am sure they would do something different in this dispensation.

When the new Super Eagles will be regrouping, do you think we still need players like Mikel Obi, Emmanuel Emenike, Ogenyi Onazi and the rest of them?

Well, let me tell you this, if another coach had handled this present bunch of the Eagles he could have done better. For instance any coach that really understands football would play Ogenyi Onazi in front of Mikel and Mikel behind him, not the other way round. It’s not down to these players only; it is the chief coach who had no game plan.

Keshi is practically obtuse and technically dense; he does not understand the game. There is no way you can play natural centre-back as full-back and expecting him to be attacking and also wading. Keshi has four natural defensive midfielders, how is going to attack. Then he plays natural centre-backs as fullbacks who are naturally going to play inwards and not outwards.

So, it is not a question of Emenike or Mikel not playing good football in the national team lately, the issue is, what did the coach tell them to do, what was the game plan. That team was not given any match plan

by Keshi.

We should get a new coach that would make the team play differently and also get a good captain on board the ship first. Those boys don’t invite themselves to the camp, they were invited. So, let us get a man who has a game plan, who knows what to do and who understands the modern mechanics of football and the problem would be solved.

60

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport

Photos from 2014 Copa Lagos Beach Soccer

Copa Lagos ushers

FC Barcelona Beach soccer team in a group photo with Pepsi Academy team

Super Sand Eagles celebrate victory against Ghana in their opening game at Copa Lagos 2014

The Supporters Club at the Copa Lagos

Spectators at the 2014 Copa Lagos

FC Barcelona player tries a bicycle kick against Pepsi Academy at Copa Lagos. Barca won 7-4

Super Sand Eagles before the match against Cote d’Ivoire

Cheer Leaders from Brazil at Copa Lagos

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NEW TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

Copa Lagos Beach Soccer has come to stay, says 1960Bet boss

The finals of the 2014 edition of the Copa Lagos Beach Soccer International Championship organised by Kinetic Sports Limited would be played today at the Eko Atlantic City venue of competition. One of the event’s sponsors, 1960Bet through its Head, Media and Publicity, Mr. Clement Okolie, spoke with DAPO SOTUMINU on the organisation’s commitment to help develop football in Nigeria 1960Bet just joined the Copa Lagos train of sponsors, what gave you the motivation to go into such partnership to bankroll a beach soccer event?

The partnership with Copa Lagos has been productive, this is just the beginning. For the pre-event, we did so much feasibility. We are hopeful of getting more leverage from this partnership.

It is a corporate social responsibility project and not for us a business. We have a betting platform 1960bet.com, but out here we are not on that platform. We do our business as a bookmaking firm. What we are doing here with Copa Lagos is something to help develop sports in Nigeria to a very high level.

We are putting our funds into the development of grassroots sports and here we have football being played on the sand. And sand has something to do with the common people that is why we have gotten into this. Our partnership here is so big and we have been doing great things in Nigeria on corporate social responsibility.

This is just one of them and we have seen the Chief Executive Officer of Kinetic Sports Limited, Mr. Samson Adamu, as a very good partner and hopefully we shall consolidate on this project to get some forms of supports.

What is your assessment of the Copa Lagos itself and seeing a number of foreign

teams participating?

In terms of organisation, it is a FIFA recognized event under the auspices of Beach Soccer World, BSW, and the recognised body for all beach soccer championships across the world including the Beach World Cup. We are proud to be associated with this and so far we have seen the caliber of players especially the players from the FC Barcelona Beach Soccer team and their counterparts from Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal and Ghana. We have been entertained greatly also with the Nigerian clubs participating; former African Champions Enyimba FC of Aba and the darling team of Lagos Stationery Stores. The quality of play has been so high and I am happy to tell you that we are delighted to be associated with this world class project.

What is your plan for Copa Lagos, is it just a one off thing or you have a plan to extend your partnership?

1960Bet is a brand that consolidates on excellent past events and like I said earlier at the end of today when the competition is declared closed, we would be able to quantify the leverage and what we have

been able to get doing what we are doing at Copa Lagos in terms of popularity, brand visibility and would take feedback from people and the fans and afterwards we would be able to say yes we would continue to do it. For me, the Copa Lagos is good. We have always wanted to continue anything that is good.

You have seen the football aspect of Copa Lagos, what do you think about the entertainment part of it?

Yes, entertainment in Nigeria is really lagging behind, apart from the Nollywood and the musicians that are doing well for themselves, when it comes to live events we are still not yet there and that is what we want to achieve with this. The entertainment part is welcome.

Yes, people want to come here to relax and apart from watching the games because of their passion, people want to relax in the evening time listening to good music. More so Christmas is around the corner, the time is right for relaxation. I think the event is very nice.

At the moment, 1969Bet is synonymous with Copa Lagos despite being a new entrant, how do you feel about this?

So far so good, 1960Bet is doing well so also Copa Lagos. You can see our gigantic structure that we put up behind the game’s arena to make our customers and those who come around us feel so good. We have also used this platform to launch our next betting shop. Copa Lagos is a platform that we have used to re-energize ourselves. And for us it’s a wonderful event and we are proud to be associated with it, but we need to go back to take feedbacks and we would sit down with the organisers of this event so as to do better next year.

Golf Weekly Heritage Bank Cup:

Port Harcourt Golf Club hails sponsors Edwin Usoboh

T

he Port Harcourt Golf Club has commended Heritage Bank for its support for the development of the game of golf in Nigeria.

The club made the assertion at the closing ceremony of the threeday 2014 Port Harcourt Amateur Open Golf Championship recently renamed Heritage Cup. Captain of the Port Harcourt Club, Golf Section, Adokiye Ikpoki, noted that the growth of the sport had been hampered by the dearth of sponsorship and commended the bank for reviving the game through its sponsorship which has been on for two years.

He said: “We are grateful to our title sponsor, Heritage Bank, for their continued generosity as they support this tournament for the second year in the series. As much as we know that this beautiful game of golf has grown in popularity and appeal globally, I can say without equivocation that the progress made in Nigeria has been quite lacklustre. We commend Heritage Bank for daring to be different in supporting this tournament, clearly working for the progress of golf in Nigeria”.

The Chairman, Organising Committee of 2014 Port Harcourt Amateur Open Golf Championship, Abiye Amakiri, also noted that sponsorship has been a major challenge to the development of the game in Nigeria.

He said: “The major challenge we are facing is sponsorship. What we achieved today, we could not have achieved if we did not get sponsorship. Under the military, it was easier because most of the military administrators played golf and they could assist us directly or give us references to corporate bodies that could sponsor us.

“Today, most politicians are not golfers and it is affecting us in terms of sponsorship. Thank God that some corporate bodies have come to our rescue. That is why we thank Heritage Bank among other corporate sponsors.

“Heritage bank has been fantastic in sponsoring golf. We hope that more corporate bodies will emulate Heritage bank in sponsoring and encouraging people to play golf.”

Meanwhile, Heritage Bank has said it decided to sponsor golf tour-

naments in the country because of the need to preserve and promote the historical legacies of the nation.

According to the Regional Director of Heritage Bank, South-south, Mr. Emeke Anene, who represented the bank’s Managing Director, Ifie Sekibo, at the end of the threeday event, said golfers shared common characteristics of tenacity and drive with the bank.

He noted that the Port Harcourt Golf Club, established in 1928, has a rich history, adding that there was need to re-invigorate it to keep the legacy.

He said: “For a player of golf, you must possess some characteristics: you must be tenacious and have a drive, which is part of Heritage Bank’s DNA. We are tenacious people. Also, if you were here last year, they gave a history of Port Harcourt Golf Club, which is one of the oldest in Nigeria, having been established in1928. Our bank, Heritage Bank, too is about history and legacy. So golf seems to be one sport that we can identify with. And the Port Harcourt Golf Club is a legacy of the development of golf in the country. That is why we chose to identify with Port Harcourt Golf Club.”

He further noted that the bank was not concerned about profitability in the sponsorship of golf, but in adding value to the lives of the people.

“The fact is that for us sponsoring the tournament, it is not about profitability. It is about adding value.

It is about value creation and that is what Heritage is all about. We want to invest in people; we want to invest in the people of Rivers State where we also occupy to do business. We are also going to do it next year. In fact, we are going to be here as long as the club wants us to be part of what they are doing,” he said.

He also maintained that the focus of the bank would always be on innovations and the need to grow small businesses with a view to growing the economy.

“Apart from wanting to drive business in terms of innovation, our focus has been on SMEs because we believe that is the niche if we want to grow as a nation. We want to create wealth, and in doing that, we need to start from the cradle, which SMEs represent,” he said.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport / News

Hazard’s goal seals Chelsea victory

E

den Hazard played a starring role as Chelsea returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a 2-0 win over 10-man Hull at Stamford Bridge.

Hazard scored in the early minutes and set up Diego Costa for Chelsea’s second goal just after the hour, a goal that came not long after Tom Huddlestone had been sent off in a game that frequently threatened to boil over.

Hull’s players were upset with referee Chris Foy on more than one occasion but he had little option but to dismiss Huddlestone for a nasty challenge that ended any chance the visitors had of taking advantage of a Chelsea display that rarely reached a level above subdued when it was 11-a-side.

Chelsea, beaten by Newcastle last weekend to end their unbeaten start to the season, were keen to get Branislav Ivanovic involved down the right flank in the early minutes, but it was a move down the left that cut a swathe through Hull’s defence for the seventh-minute opener.

John Obi Mikel and the impressive Nemanja Matic worked hard to win the ball in midfield and the latter fed Oscar, whose cross was perfectly placed between two static Hull defenders for Hazard to head past Allan McGregor.

Hull lost Michael Dawson soon after to an apparent hamstring injury but they grew into the game and Sone Aluko fired over the bar with their first decent chance after Mikel had lost the ball cheaply.

Brave defending from James Chester denied Costa a chance and Gary Cahill headed way over the bar as Chelsea tried to grab hold of the game back after a quiet spell.

Cahill was lucky to escape more serious censure than a yellow card after going in over the top on Aluko with Nikica Jelavic only able to hit the Chelsea wall with the resulting freekick from a dangerous spot.

WEEKEND RESULTS

Barclays Premier League Burnley 1 - 0 Southampton Chelsea 2 - 0 Hull City Crystal Palace 1 - 1 Stoke Leicester 0 - 1 Manchester Sunderland 1 - 1 West Ham West Bromwich 1 - 0 Aston Villa Arsenal 4 - 1 Newcastle Germany - Bundesliga Hoffenheim 3 - 2 Frankfurt Augsburg 0 - 4 Bayern Munich Freiburg 0 - 0 Hamburger Hertha Berlin 1 - 0 Dortmund Schalke 1 - 2 FC Cologne Werder Bremen 3 - 3 Hannover Mainz 1 - 1 Stuttgart Italy - Serie A Palermo 2 - 1 Sassuolo Lazio 0 - 0 Atalanta Spain - Liga BBVA Almeria 1 - 4 Real Madrid Getafe 0 - 0 Barcelona Valencia 3 - 0 Rayo Vallecano France - Ligue 1 Nantes 2 - 1 Bordeaux

Eden Hazard celebrates goal against Hull City

Rodgers: United game perfect for Liverpool

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rendan Rodgers believes a trip to Old Trafford to face an in-form Manchester United is “perfect” for his Liverpool side to rediscover their confidence.

United have won five games in a row to climb into third spot in the Premier League, while the Merseysiders are lying in midtable and failed to get out of their Champions League group this week after drawing 1-1 with Basel.

Defeat for the Reds this weekend would leave them 10 points adrift of their arch-rivals and put Champions League qualification even further out of sight.

But Rodgers insists facing

United away could be the ideal remedy.

“The game against Manchester United is perfect for us and we hope to take confidence and spirit into the game.”

“The game against Manchester United is perfect for us and we hope to take confidence and spirit into the game,” he said.

“You’ve just got to find the ways to refocus the minds of the players, forget and learn from the experiences, and look at it as an opportunity to go and get onto a winning run.

“We’re very much focused on improving that performance level. We know that we can do that - we can put a run of results

Amuneke: Fresh opportunities for new players in Eaglets

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olden Eaglets chief coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, has said that fresh opportunities would be given to new players as the national Under-17 team’s camp opens in Abuja today ahead of the forthcoming African cadet championship to be hosted in Niger between February 15 and March 1, 2015.

Amuneke, who breezed into town midweek from Spain, noted that the next two weeks would be used to ascertain the fitness level and condition of older players, adding it was necessary to fortify the team in view of the challenges expected at the tournament.

The Golden Eaglets nearly won the 2013 CAN Under-17 Championship but were beaten 5-4 by Junior Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire after a pulsating 1-1 draw in Marrakech, Morocco.

“The peculiar nature of the Under-17 category means that we would continue to work with most of the players that have been with us for some time now,” said the 1994 African Footballer of the Year. “But that has not fore closed the chances for oth-

ers to break into the team since we need to present a very good team because our objective first and foremost is to secure one of the tickets for the next FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Chile.”

The team would expectedly begin its training session on Monday at the NFF/ FIFA Goal Project Pitch and officials hinted that only those who are invited would be taken care of while others who want to be screened would cater for their own welfare.

Amuneke

together that can keep us climbing.

“But really we want to keep improving on the performance level. As my teams have shown, we’ll get better as the season goes on but we want to start that sooner rather than later.”

Church World Cup: MFM set to make history

H

istory beckons as the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries Football Club of Lagos battle Colombia today in the final of the Church World Cup in Goa, India.

The Nigeria representatives are tipped to become the first church to lift the cup as they had defeated the South Americans 3-0 in the group stage. Match is 4 pm Nigerian time.

The Church World Cup is the brain child of The John Paul II Foundation For Sports. The participants at this inaugural edition are the host India, Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Colombia, Portugal, Brazil and Uzbekistan.

Enroute the final, the enterprising MFM boys have scored 13 goals and conceded none in four games. First to fall was Colombia who lost 3-0, next were the boys from Egypt who also conceded two goals, Uzbekistan were battered 7-0 while the host, India could not prevail over the Olukoya Boys, they went down 1-0 despite playing a ten man Nigerian side.

In the absence of his suspended strike partner, Akor Isah who got the marching order in Thursdays semi-final clash with host, India, all eyes will be on Adekunle Adegboyega who has found the back of the net five times.

Meanwhile, the General Overseer of MFM, Dr Daniel Olukoya has charged his boys to do the church proud and also Africa by winning the competition today.

“I’m excited that MFM’s quest

Sand Eagles suffer first Copa defeat

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igeria’s Super Sand Eagles were beaten for the first time at the Copa Lagos Beach Soccer when they lost 4-5 to Ivory Coast on Saturday.

The Super Sand Eagles who have won the three previous editions of the Copa Lagos trailed the Ivorians at the end of the first period by two goals.

Isiaka Olawale and Musa Najare failed to convert from free kicks before Eric Bile Kablan put the Sand Elephants in the lead from a free kick.

Within a minute Kablan doubled the lead for the Ivorians with a leftfooted shot.

Victor Tale had a chance to halve the lead of the Ivorians but blazed his free kick wide.

The Sand Eagles won a penalty at the start of the second half and Warri Wolves striker, Abu Azeez, converted to make the score 2-1 as the Nigerian attempted to battle back into the game.

Within minutes, Kablan’s free kick struck the Nigeria post, and Daniel curled in from close range to give Ivory Coast a 3-1 lead.

Babatunde Badmus and Najare got into scoring chances but failed to make them count for Nigeria.

It was Daniel’s goal that wrapped up the second period as Ivory Coast opened a three-goal lead.

The third period was full of activities as Azeez headed Nigeria back into the contest to make the scoreline 2-4. But Daniel restored Ivory Coast’s three goal lead inside a minute.

Two late goals from Olawale and Najare proved too little, too late as Ivory Coast held on for a 5-4 win.

1960BET set to thrill Beach Soccer fans at Copa finale

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he 2014 Copa Lagos has become the eye-catching event at the Eko Atlantic Beach with four nations and four clubs slugging it out for honours.

Copa Lagos champions Nigeria with Senegal, Ghana and Ivory Coast are vying for the title at the international level, while Enyimba, Stationery Stores, Pepsi Football Academy and FC Barcelona make-up the friendly matches for the clubs.

The cheerleaders are also not left out as they have added beauty to the beach soccer at the Eko Atlantic City with their eye-popping cheers during match intervals.

Managing Director/CEO of 1960BET, Dotun Ajegbile, whose company is the headline sponsor of the Copa Lagos Beach Soccer, described the event as colourful and unique. He commended Kinetic Sports for having created worldclass event with an inspiring ambience for Soccer lovers, which is one of the major reasons why 1960Bet as a Sports Promotion company is proud to be top sponsors of this highly-acclaimed FIFA event.

Ajegbile promised that “1960BET is always ready to play a fundamental part of the laudable project that brings local and foreign players, businessmen, stakeholders and fans under one umbrella aimed at networking to develop and improve the sports.”

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

News

Adesina: Farmers access N10bn seeds through GES

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inister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, said that about N10.4 billion worth of seeds has been redeemed by farmers under the Growth Enhancement Scheme (GES) of the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA).

The Minister, who was represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Mr. Martins Fregene, stated this at the National Seed Retreat in Abuja, yesterday. The theme of the retreat is “Transforming the Nigeria Seed Industry in Meeting the Goals of the Agricultural Transformation Agenda.”

According to Adeshina, “The impact of a rejuvenated seed industry has been tremendous as national food production increased by an additional 21 million metric tonnes (mmts) during 2011-2014, surpassing the 20mmts target set for

2015.”

He added that “Nigeria met its Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of halving extreme poverty two years ahead of the 2015 United Nations target while the National Food Import Bill declined by 40 per cent from $7 billion in 2011 to $4 billion in December 2013.”

Adesina said, “The number of private seed companies already licensed and those awaiting licensing for seed production and marketing rose from 11 in 2011 to 133 in 2014 and as at today, about 99 seed companies are participating in the GED programme.”

He said: “The number of direct and indirect jobs to be created by this could only be imagined and as part of commitment to the growth of the private seed sector, the Federal Ministry of Rural Development (FMARD), under the Nigerian Incentive-based Risk Sharing Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL), provided credit

Nigeria shouldn’t remain a consumer nation – Cleric Steve Uzoechi, Owerri

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mo state Coordinator of the Sabbath Keepers Evangelical Fellowship of Nigeria, Rev. Chigozie Samuel Nwaka has decried Nigeria’s increasing state of dependency on imported products and services from foreign economies.

He stated that, while Nigeria is to be championing the socio-economic resurgence of Africa, it is still largely dependent on seemingly smaller nations and rather than operating a production economy, runs a consumer economy.

Nwaka made this assertion in a press statement to mark the Centenary celebration of the Sabbath Church in Nigeria.

Celebrating 100 years of the Sabbath Church, Nwaka said, “We believe it is no coincidence that the Sabbath Church and Nigeria as a nation shares the same birth-year. We see the uniqueness of the Nigerian nation in the Commonwealth of Nations especially in Africa. We therefore challenge our leaders to look inwards and revive our groundnut myriad adding that, leaders should provide lasting solution

to the problem of democracy, economy, technology, education and indeed development’’ He urged Nigerian leaders to study the potentials and uniqueness of Nigeria’s situation to derive a developmental roadmap. “We cannot borrow America, we are created here with our uniqueness to champion the affairs of the black race and indeed the entire world. We can export our economy, politics, technology, medicine, science, culture, and natural/human resources which God has blessed us with.

Nigeria cannot continue to be at the receiving end, we are endowed to be at the giving end. For example, the recent Ebola breakthrough made by Nigerian health service providers, also look at Option A4 voting system founded in Nigeria, which remains the best system of election suitable for Nigeria especially on a two-party system” he said.

Nwaka urged all the players in the nation’s electoral process to consider the interest of the country over self and group benefits. He encouraged issue-based politicking in Nigeria

guarantee for the seed companies to access financial lending from commercial banks for seed buy-back from their out growers at single digit interest rate, even as bank lending rose to N6 billion in 2014.”

On his part, the acting

Director General, National Agricultural Seeds Council, Dr. Phillip Olusegun Ojo, said the success in the seeds sector was not without challenges including dearth of plant breeders, inadequate seed testing facilities in both public and

private sector, inadequate infrastructure for seed processing, slow development and promotion of hybrid in most crops as well as lack of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).

He said: “It is pertinent to note that high quality

seed has been recognised as the most important input in crop production as it is not only the cheapest means of increasing yield but also critical in raising the efficiency of other Agricultural inputs used in crop production.”

L-R: APC Chieftain, Alhaji Shakirudeen Seriki, the party’s candidate for the Epe Federal Constituency for the House of Representatives,Hon. Wale Raji, Lagos East Senatorial candidate, Senator Gbenga Ashafa and another APC Chietain,Hon Wasiu Odeyemi, after the declaration of Senator Ashafa as the winner during the Lagos East Senatorial District primary in Epe, recently.

Aregbesola, Amaechi others for honours today

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he Africa Digital Awards (ADA 2014) has penciled down the Speaker of House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, the governors of Osun and Rivers states, Rauf Aregbesola and Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi respectively and others for

special recognition at the ADA awards holding today in Lagos.

Others slated for recognition include President of Nigeria Internet Group, Bayo Banjo, CEO of Teledom Group, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, and CEO of Open Media, Dr. Ernest

Ndukwe, who is the chief host of the event.

Also for honours in the corporate category are Tecno Mobile, Airtel, MTN and Accion Micro Finance Bank as well as the former Commissioner in Lagos State, Dr. Muiz Banire, Publisher of Ovation Magazine,

Dele Momodu and Television Continental.

The event also includes the Africa Digital Forum (ADF), which focuses on the final convergence of the ICT stakeholders in 2014 with the theme ’’Broadband: Oxygen for a Digital Economy.’’.

NDAN elects new executives Residents warn APC against imposition N ewspaper Distributors Association of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter yesterday elected new executives to run the affairs of the association for next three years.

At the end of the keenly contested election, Mr. Folorunsho Bolanle of Campbell Nig. Enterprises was elected president while Ikediuba Keneth of T.Keneth Nig. Enterprises was emerged vice president.

Others elected are Paul Emenimadu, provost; Giwa Idowu, welfare officer; Peter Eleberi, public relations officer and Prince Anthony Udeozor, general secretary.

The electoral committee chairman, Mr. Zubby while announcing the results, encouraged the winners and the losers to work harmoni-

ously for the progress of the association.

The new chairman is his acceptance speech, thanked God for his victory and promised to work with all members to ensure that the association gets to the next level.

Bolanle

Muritala Ayinla

R

esidents of AmuwoOdofin Local Government Area of Lagos State, have called on the leadership of All Progressive Congress not to impose Lagos House of Assembly representative on them.

It was learnt that FESTAC Residents Association had earlier petitioned the party leadership over the danger of imposing candidate on them in the forthcoming general election, saying the area is too sophisticated for electoral malpractices and imposition of any candidate on them They called on the party National Leader, Asiwaju Tinubu and the state party Chair-

man, Chief Henry Ajomale, to allow the residents choose whoever they want, saying any attempt to foist a candidate on them would lead to chaos in the area.

They alleged that most of people, who claimed to be delegates were rented individuals who were not party members, but paid to manipulate primaries in the area.

Speaking with Sunday New Telegraph, a community leader who is also executive member in Amuwo Odofin Resident Association, Mr Adekunle Makinde, alleged that there were plans to manipulate results in favour of someone who has not made any meaningful impact in the constituency.

SPORT Dudu-Orumen: Keshi’s technically obtuse

FAITH

Sanctity of Truth

I take notes when my son is preaching –Oyedepo

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2014

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The abysmal retreat of rationality and logicality in national discourse (2) Last week, this column examined some interesting developments in the polity. It continues below.

The

T

hat you are wrong, Prof, can be found in your own very words: “Legislators are not elected for their athletic prowess, and such endeavours should not be demanded of them. There are even Presidents and Prime Ministers who were elected despite physical handicaps. The brain is where it matters, the vision and commitment to service.”

But, after such a brilliant thesis, Soyinka sought to justify the degrading scene of wall scaling by legislators like Esan Egbabonalimi Acrobats, in a most curious, illogical manner. Hear him: “The act of scaling gates and walls to fulfill their duty to the people must be set down as their finest hour. They must be applauded, not derided. If shame belongs anywhere, it belongs to the Inspector General of Police and his slavish adherence to conspiratorial, illegal, and unconstitutional instructionsto undermine a democratic structure, and one – to make matters worse – convoked in response to an emergency of dire public concern.”

Soyinka’s amazing thesis here is that two wrongs can make a right. If the IGP was wrong, then the Legislators should beat him to it. He seems to be propounding the egregious theory that there are no more civilised ways of responding to a provocation, if indeed provocation it was, than resort to pristine, primeval and primitive self-help.

Haba! Soyinka did not care about the security alert (alleged by the IGP), that there was going to be mayhem in the House between members of two opposing parties – PDP and APC - over mutual suspicion, that the Speaker may be surreptitiously impeached by a PDP-led onslaught; and the PDP’s fears that the APC members may undo the President, if they convoked. Soyinka did not have regard to the fact that Governor Muazu Babangida of Niger State had to apologise to the Nation and the National Assembly leadership, for the shame and dishonour of watching some Legislators representing his Niger State, scale the fence, publicly assault Police officers in uniform, and shove the Senate President, David Mark, who had come to the floor of the green Chambers to mediate, as chairman of the NASS. What manner of Patriotic service, other than rabid political interest and self preservation, will make our Honourable Members perform acrobatic high and long jumps, like famous athletes, such as Jesse Owens, Edwin Gourdin, Ralph Boston Mike Powell, Javier Sotomayor, Juliya Levchenko of Ukrain, and Anna Chicherova of Russia? No, Prof, you got it all wrong here. We cannot afford to promote lawlessness and legislative rascality on the altar of Political expediency or correctness.

Nigerian Project

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08128444555 (sms only) As law makers, they ought to have fallen on their basic legislative instincts of making laws for the peace, order and good governance of Nigeria, by showing good example to the rest of Nigerians, towards the sustenance and deepening of democracy.

There were several avenues open to them to ventilate their grievances on this apparent provocation: They could approach the court to request for interpretation of the plenitude and amplitude of Police powers to stop legislators from accessing their Legislative chambers. Such a suit will dwell essentially on the Doctrine of Separation of powers between the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary.

They could also complain formally to the Chairman of the National Assembly, Senator David Mark, who by virtue of Section 53 of the 1999 Constitution, is the Leader of the National Assembly. They could, in the alternative, have sought and obtained audience with IGP Abba, seeking to know why he locked up the gates of the NASS, and ordering him to immediately open them for the business of debating Mr. President’s request for the extension of a declaration of a state of emergency, which had actually brought them there in the first instance.

The Legislators could also, as another option, have shown the power in civility, peaceful resistance, and decorum, by carrying placards and demonstrating in front of the NASS, and even on the streets of Abuja, to send the right signals, that democracy abhors violence, but welcomes peaceful solution to political disagreements. But what did we witness?

Ugly scenes.

Our so called Honourable men and women took none of the above decent, democratically tested and accepted norms, values and steps. They rather

MAMA LASISI

Tambuwal

took the laws into their hands. They took on to gangsterism and buffoonery.

Like chimpanzees, apes and monkeys, fighting over banana and nuts, our Legislators started scaling the National Assembly fence, violently shaking and pulling down the gates! They could be seen on screen, shouting, pushing, shoving and screaming expletives at our Police officers in uniform, who were forced to retreat inside and resort to throwing teargas canisters, to avoid being overwhelmed and humiliated. And Prof. says this was the Legislators’ finest hour? No, Prof. It was indeed their hour of infamy, of descent into a despicable and vile state of nadir.

WHY I SAID SPEAKER TAMBUWAL SHOULD RESIGN It was therefore obvious that the gravamen in Legislators scaling the NASS fence was

all about the Speaker, Tambuwal. I had therefore, in my earlier write-up, called on him to honourably resign. My dissertation was simple: Tambuwal had made a ‘sacrifice’ in dropping his Presidential bid for the Governorship ticket of Sokoto State, for, according to him, the unity and cohesion of his APC Party, and in the larger interest of the Nation. He says he was not desperate for power, since power comes from God. I totally agree with him. In the same vein, if his continued Speakership of the House will lead to further tension, suspense, bifurcation, schism, discord, violence, mayhem, stalling of sittings, non debate of our overdue National budget and non debate of a crucial issue like extension of a State of emergency in the war-ravaged North East, then he should honourably resign.

I had argued and I now reaffirm it, that this call for his resignation has nothing to do with constitutionalism or legalism (as he firmly remains the Speaker in the eye of the law), but has everything to do with ethics, morality, honour, dignity and patriotism, to enable Nigeria to move forward. This was my thesis.

As expected, APC sympathisers descended on me, especially in the social media, describing me as a PDP man, who is seeking for appointment. What appointment?

It did not occur to these critics that only a week earlier, they had lavishly praised me to high heavens, for categorically saying that Tambuwal remained the Speaker of the House and that Abba should immediately restore his security details, as the number four citizen of Nigeria. The Nigerian Politictrician! What can he not negatively do? Nothing.

This is the sorry state of the clear bifurcation of our national discourse. I will not be surprised if PDP sympathisers soon descend on, and accuse Prof. Soyinka over his clear thesis (even though I disagree with his conclusion), of being an APC man, or sympathiser. That is the sorry state of bifurcation of national discourse. It is sad.

So sad. Politicians, sorry, Politictricians, are you reading and digesting this Sunday sermon from “the Nigerian Project” by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, OFR, FCIArb? Concluded • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

By Aliu Eroje

WHAT WERE THE AVAILABLE OPTIONS? When the National Assembly’s gates were locked against the Legislators and members of the House of Representatives barred from entry, I had expected the Honourable members to exercise utmost Legislative restraint, calm temperance and peaceful decorum, beholden of Law makers, by channelling their grievances through proper routes.

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