Binder1 jan 10,2015

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SATURDAY Saturday, January 10, 2015

Vol. 1 No. 325

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Juliet Ibrahim: Ghanaian-born Nollywood star on romance, music and fighting Ebola

N150

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BUHARI not wanted in United Kingdom

wale ojo

Acting on the same set with Marlon Brando was fantastic }13

paralysed ex-eagles star Eboigbe cries out:

I need help while alive

}25

ALEX ekwueme

lBritish Envoy speaks

M

Ndubuisi Ugah ore than 31 years after his government “sponsored” the failed abduction and illegal deportation of the late minister of transport, Alhaji

Umaru Dikko, via a cargo crate, the United Kingdom on Thursday said it had no plan to arrest the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 14 election, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, should he decide to visit the

UK to drum up support for his campaign.

The clarification by the UK government is coming on the heels of reports by some online news portal that the APC standard bearer may be arrested, following reports that his

campaign team had received an “uncomplimentary” reception from some institutions, government and nongovernment organisations ahead of his party’s proposed visit to the UK. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Movement out of North for fears of post-election violence lWe’re not leaving Kaduna, Southern leaders insist

}10

}45-48

Jonathan shouldn’t take South-East votes for granted}5

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Contents | 10.01.15 INSTYLE

Office Dress Sense When dressing for the office, you should bear in mind that to a large extent, everything depends on your office dress code. So a few tips here would do

}15

SHOWBIZ

Gospel in the Club He sings in nightclubs and is never far away from controversy.

Lanre Teriba, popularly known as Atorise, speaks about the conviction behind his unusual ways

}21

BOOKS

Piece of Inspiration Victoria Praise Abraham’s book, Hope on the Go, offers nuggets of inspiration to live by in troubling times as this

}18

SPORT

A Gaffer’s Frustration Rangers FC coach, John Obuh, speaks about some of the problems that hamper the growth of the Nigerian League

}26

TRAVELOGUE

Touring Abuja Since the launch of Sightseeing Tour Buses in Abuja, residents and visitors have been having an exciting time taking in sights and sounds of the city

}42

TV & RADIO

It’s Labi’s Show The L.A.B.I - Loving And Being Intimate - Show, a tell-it-as-it-is programme presented by Labi Olayori is having a huge hit among audiences fixated on matters of the heart

}23 Plus: Street Diary 10 | Love&Living 35 | Faceoff 48

SATURDAY Comment

T

Making democracy meaningful to the people

here is no doubt that democracy is a very good but not perfect kind of political system, but liberal enough to cater for every segment of the society. It is not dictatorial and it allows for accountability, more importantly, it gives the electorate the power to decide who presides over their affairs periodically. It is imperative to underscore the fact that, what happened in May 1999, in Nigeria, on a proper reflection, is at best a fortuitous bold step towards the establishment of democracy but it is certainly nothing near the minimum standards of a truly worked out democratic process. While it is usual for elective political processes to function within a democracy, it does not necessarily mean that every political arrangement is democratic. Going through the mechanics of electioneering without the spirit and discipline of democracy is nothing but empty ritual devoid of fundamental democratic ethos.

It is conceded that contrary to the situation under the authoritarian military governments of the past, Nigerians can now openly express themselves on almost any subject without the fear of being locked up or made to disappear arbitrarily; previous taboos are being challenged and government is being gradually demystified. But it is not necessarily an exclusive requirement of democracy that some civil liberties be tolerated in a society.

There is no doubt, as we have already conceded, that certain things are better now and that Nigeria is nearer democracy today than it was before May 1999. What we must be honest about is that we are yet to assume the moral and operational responsibilities of democracy and, to that extent; a lot has also gone worse since then, depending on what the focus is.

The situation in the political theatre so far since May 1999 is that, those who were strong enough to be elected into the various offices have laboured so hard to live well over and above the level of those they claim to represent. No true democracy would permit a situation where, for example, public office holders incestuously fix their own jumbo-size salaries, embark on fiscal vandalism and insensitive opulence all to the detriment of the national economy. While national minimum wage is fixed at a paltry N18,000. It is also ironical that 16 years down the line, the four refineries in the country are comatose, hence, the need to import the bulk of our oil requirements.

It is so sad and disheartening that with the avalanche of human and material resources, the present crop of politicians have not only failed woefully to rise to the challenge of leadership by providing credible, effective and transparent leadership we have a confused and inept leadership, polarized and rudderless political parties and directionless socio- economic cum political agenda which is inimical to the collective national interest and values of the Nigerian state.

No doubt, democracy in Nigeria is work in progress. However Nigeria must not rest on her oars, it is important that internal democracy become an integral part of our political party system. The people must forge a common front and not allow retrogressive and reactionary forceS to manipulate them.

And, the people must canvass for stringent anti-graft policies as well as campaign vigorously for credible and transparent electoral process- one man, one vote, and the votes of the people must count. If this is not done, democracy will be nothing but a tantalising mirage in our clime.

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Telegraph Adam&Eve

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2015

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10 JANUARY 2015

Jonathan: Buhari too old for the job Uwakwe Abugu

L Enugu

ess than 48 hours after he flaggedoff his presidential campaign in Lagos, President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday came hard on the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gen. Muhammad Buhari (rtd), insisting that Buhari was too old to handle the problems of Nigeria, particularly in this digital era.

He also repeated his directive to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the distribution of the Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVC), stating that he stands on 100 per cent compliance level in PVC distribution before the general elections next month.

President Jonathan, who is the presidential candidate of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), spoke at the presidential rally for Enugu State, recalled the quantum of criticism of his government by the APC and questioned the ability

l Insists on 100% PVC distribution lPDP presents Ugwuanyi as Enugu guber candidate of its candidate to handle Nigeria at this moment.

He said even in the 1980s when he was head of state at a youthful age he could not tackle the country’s problems firmly, stating that: “Is it now when he is old that he would be able to handle them better?”

On corruption, which his administration had been berated in several quarters, the president said he was not ready to bundle people or perceived corrupt persons into Kirikiri Prisons or elsewhere but said he would adopt the kind of policies he introduced into the agricultural sector, where funds are no longer siphoned to arrest other areas yet to be cleared of corrupt tendencies.

Insisting that he had been fighting corruption contrary the accusations, President Jonathan said: “I won’t run Nigeria based on my own heartbeat but but based on global best practices of fight-

ing corruption. We can't run the country as if we were in the Stone Age.” On the crisis that have arisen in the party owing to grievances from the primary elections, the president chided those making such fuss, urging them to rally round those who won.

At the occasion, the First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, canvassed votes of the Ndigbo through the Igbo language which she spoke fluently, urging them to give the kind of support they offered her husband in 2011.

Also at the rally graced by chieftains of the PDP, the National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, formally presented Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the governorship candidate of the party and also handed the flag of the party to him.

And when Ugwuanyi spoke at the main bowl of Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, venue of the rally

which was filled to capacity, he exuded ample confidence in his short speech which ignited the loudest ovation at the event as the huge crowd continued to hail him.

President Jonathan arrived the venue of the event at 2. 17 p.m, alongside VicePresident Namadi Sambo, Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State; Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu; Chairman of PDP in Enugu, Chief Ikeje Asogwa.

Others were former Vice-President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio, Governor Theodore Orji (Abia), Deputy National Chairman of PDP, Chief Uche Secondus, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, Alhaji Ahmadu Alli, who is the director of the PDP national presidential campaign council, Prof.

Jerry Gana, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, among others.

L-R: Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime; Vice-President Namadi Sambo; National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Adamu Mu'azu and President Goodluck Jonathan, at the PDP presidential rally in Enugu…yesterday

No ‘arms deal embargo’ on Nigeria –U.S Ndubuisi Ugah

T

with agency reports

he United States has said the report that there is an arms deal embargo on Nigeria is untrue, insisting no country is doing more to support Nigeria in its fight against terror than the American government.

There have been rumours that the U.S had placed embargo on the sales of arms to Nigeria and that it had prevented the oil-rich nation from obtaining arms to prosecute a counter terrorism operation in the North-East a major terrorist enclave, following the attack by the Boko Haram sect.

But speaking in an interview on Channels Television yesterday, the U.S Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James

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l UN urges Boko Haram leaders to embrace peace Entwistle, said there was no arms embargo on Nigeria, describing the claims that the US had cut Nigeria off as ‘nonsense’.

He said: “Ideas that there are arms embargo and that the U.S has cut Nigeria off is nonsense. No country is doing more to support Nigeria in its fight against terror right now. We can’t talk about the details in public but I can assure you that we are with you every step of the way.

“We have a number of discussions right now for various pieces of equipment in the air, on the ground and army personnel carriers. We share information everyday with your army that they can use operationally. The notion that we have cut you

off is nonsense.”

Entwistle, who did not give the details of why the U.S refused to grant Nigeria’s request for the helicopter, said: “We have good relations with the Air Force, Navy and Army at the working level. We are in touch everyday working together. Late last year, I told President Jonathan that the U.S wants Nigeria to win the war on terror and we stand ready to help in any and appropriate way.”

In another development, Entwistle has said although Nigeria is currently in a very challenging situation, there were no signs that it would break up after the general elections as asserted in some quarters.

He said Nigeria was

gradually moving towards a very bright future.

The envoy said: “It is a ridiculous assertion. Here we are sitting in Nigeria in 2015, do any of you see any signs of this country breaking up? I don’t. I see Nigeria in a challenging time, nonetheless gradually moving forward to a very bright future and the U.S looks forward to working with you towards that bright future. When I spend time with young Nigerians, I can’t help but have a strong optimism about this country.”

Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki Moon, yesterday urged leaders of the Boko Haram insurgent to embrace peace, especially now that Nigeria is set to hold its elections next month.

5

Buhari not wanted in United Kingdom cont inued from page 1

Buhari’s administration in 1984 was cited as the mastermind of Dikko’s abduction, a development which prompted some rights groups to mull the idea of instituting process that could lead to the arrest of the former head of state to answer charges on the botched extra-judicial deportation.

Speaking with Saturday Telegraph on the phone on the issue, the press secretary of the British High Commission in Nigeria, Mr. Edward Dunn, said some of the allegations raised in the reports were “unfounded and without foundation."

According to him, “we have seen some of these online reports and we are unaware of the allegations.

We have seen the reports before. As far as the United Kingdom government is concerned, they are without foundation.”

Asked further if the clarification was a tacit admission that Buhari was free to visit the UK, Dunn said: “Any other issue is purely an immigration affair.”

Saturday Telegraph gathered that the APC had planned a few global events for Buhari to rally support for its presidential candidate who is believed to be relatively unpopular among the international community.

Indication that the trip had hit the rock emerged when the APC abruptly put the publicised trip on hold. It was alleged that the consultant working for the campaign failed to get a positive reception from the Chatam House, the House of Commons, as well as top advocacy groups which had been approached.

Investigation revealed that the rejection is not unconnected with the poor human rights record of Buhari during his reign as head of state. The notion that his comment in 2011 had stoked post-election violence did not help his case, it was understood.

However, it was gathered that some top APC

bigwigs are puling all strings to seek alternative platform for the ex-military dictator before the February 14 presidential election.

Prior to the clarifications by Dunn, it was claimed that Buhari could be charged under the UK Common Law for his role in the attempted abduction of Dikko foiled by the British police and immigration. That incident sparked a major diplomatic row between Nigeria and the UK. Some lawyers, who also commented on the issue argued that the botched kidnap also contravened the British Aviation Security Act of 1982.

It would be recalled that the plane designated to transport Dikko was waiting in the tarmac for its “consignment”’ before eagle-eyed UK customs officials intervened.

The Dikko kidnap affair was a joint Nigerian-Israeli operation using Mossad agents across Europe.

In June 1984, Dikko was kidnapped in front of his home while he was out for a walk and taken away in a van driven by a security agent called Yusufu. He was then drugged into unconsciousness by one Dr. Levi-Arie Shapiro, an Israeli doctor, allegedly recruited by Israeli’s Mossad.

Dikko and Shapiro were subsequently placed in one crate.

However, proper documentation that would have ensured that the cargo could not be inspected was not provided. The crates were not labelled as diplomatic bags, as required

by Article 27(4) of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

As a result, customs officials were able to open the crates without violating the convention and foil the kidnapping.

The British government immediately expelled two members of the Nigerian High Commission in London, including the High Commissioner. Diplomatic relations with Nigeria were broken off for two years.

The Week Ahead

Bells varsity holds 10th convocation today The Bells University of Technology (BELLSTECH), Ota, Ogun State, will today hold its 10th matriculation ceremony where about 510 students will take their admission oath for the 2015/2016 academic session.

The event, which is scheduled to commence at 10a.m will be presided over by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Adeyemi.

In a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mr. Hakeem Adeyemi, said members of the university’s Parents’ Forum will hold by 12 noon after the matriculation ceremony.

6

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10 JANUARY 2015

IKEJA Reduce cost of aviation fuel, UPN adopts Jonathan as Airline operators appeal to FG presidential candidate IKEJA

N EWS I N BRIEF

Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) on Friday appealed to the Federal Government to reduce the cost of aviation fuel for airline operators to remain in business.

The Chairman of the AON, Capt. Nogie Meggison, who made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, yesterday, said airline operators were spending up to 40 per cent of their operational cost on fuel.

Meggison, who said as an oil-bearing country, Nigerian airlines should not be paying the current high price of N170 per litre for gasoline, stated that the high cost of buying fuel was crippling the operations of many airlines and forcing them to close shops.

Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo, on Friday inaugurated the first phase of disbursement of N750 million Trade Intervention Fund (TIF) to 2,065 traders.

Speaking at the forum in Gombe, Dankwambo said the loan was meant to support traders in their businesses while uplifting the standard of living of the people.

According to him, the loan is interestfree but had negligible administrative charges to be paid to JAIZE Bank.

“The state government is deliberately partnering with JAIZE Bank to administer the Trade Intervention Fund because of its banking ethics and readiness to contribute positively toward the development of Gombe State,” he said.

1,478

The number of refugees in Nicaragua at the beginning of 2010.

Source: Blatantworld.com

ADO-EKITI Arise defends Jonathan over naira devaluation

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ayo Arise, has absolved President Goodluck Jonathan of blame for naira devaluation.

According to him, the dwindling fortunes of oil price in the international market accounts for the fluctuation and should not be erroneously ascribed to the President’s incompetence, as being flaunted by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Addressing journalists in Ado Ekiti yesterday, Arise who was the Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatisation between 2007 and 2011, said the problem would remain except the country addressed its sole dependence on oil.

He said: “Currency devaluation is not new to Nigeria or any country across the globe."

70.3%

25,000

The percentage of the urban population of Dominican Republic in 2012.

Source: Un.org

The estimated number of Americans above 65 years with Alzheimer’s in Maine State in 2014.

Source: Alz.org

Shun thuggery, IG advises politicians … declares war against cult kingpins in Edo Emmanuel Onani and Cajetan Mmuta Abuja and BENIN

T

he Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Suleiman Abba, has enjoined politicians to discourage acts of violence and thuggery before, during and after the February elections.

This came as Abba pledged that the Nigeria Police will continue to provide a level-playing ground for candidates and their political parties, to carry out their activities.

The IG said this in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Mr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, an Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP).

Abba further noted in the statement, that the country had recorded a reduction in the rate of crimes, within the period under review: De-

cember 20, 2013 to January 5, 2014, as well as December 20, 2014 and January 5 this year.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Foluso Adebanjo, has expressed concern over the wave of cultism and reprisal killings among rival groups, vowing to embark on manhunt of leaders of the various groups and members in order to arrest and prosecute them.

He said the activities of members of the secret cult groups have become source of worry to security agencies and members of the public, following gruesome killings and criminal actions across the state.

Adebanjo, who said this when he paraded 81 suspects arrested for various crimes including murder, rape, defilement, robbery, kidnapping, among others, said: “Of great concern is the issue of cultism in the state."

Fani-Kayode: Nigerians should question Buhari, MEND, Boko Haram relationship

D

L-R: Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu; former Second Republic Senate President, Joseph Wayas and Senator Ngoji Denton West, during a courtesy visit to Kalu in Abuja...yesterday PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

FG begins design of $5bn Trans-Nigeria Gas Pipeline RESPITE

The nation's gas project received a major boost with the approval of $5 billion for the project.

Babatope Okeowo

T

Akure with agency reports

he Federal Government has commenced the design of $5 billion TransNigeria Gas Pipeline targeted at delivering gas to northern and eastern parts of the country.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in a bulletin (volume 48), quoted its Group Executive Director, Gas and Power, Dr. David Ige, as saying in Abuja, that the contract for the construction of the estimated 1,200 kilometre flagship project would be awarded soon.

The bulletin stated that the design would soon be completed to pave way for the contract award.

“The contract has not yet been awarded. We are at present working on the project design which should be completed soon before the award of contract,” it stated.

It stated that the state of security in some parts of the nation had never constituted a serious threat to the project.

The bulletin stated that the nation had also made progress in other gas projects, including the ongoing expansion of EscravoLagos gas pipeline system, which started in 2011.

It stated that the project was expected to be completed before the end of the year in order to double its capacity.

Meanwhile, Osun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, yesterday accused the Federal government of pilfering $14.6 billion oil money that supposed to accrue to

the federation account.

Aregbesola, who was speaking in Akure, the Ondo State during a programme tagged: ‘Walk for change’, organised by the Buhari-Osinbajo Campaign Organisation, alleged that the Federal Government had displayed incompetence in handling the fund that accrued to the country from oil revenue.

Flanked by the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential running mate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Aregbesola said Nigerians should blame President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration for not creating even development across all the states of the federation.

Aregbesola said the excuse that crude oil was being stolen is ‘rubbish’ as President Jonathan as Commander in Chief of the armed forces ought to put machineries in motion to stop the stealing of the crude.

According to him, $40

million worth of crude oil is being stolen everyday amounting to $14.6billion since 2013 when the contract to protect the oil pipelines was awarded to ex-militant, Chief Government Ekpemupolo (aka Tompolo).

The governor told the APC members, who thronged the venue alongside the state Coordinator of the organisation, Mr. Bola Ilori; state chairman of the APC, Isacs Kekemeke; national assembly members led by Prof. Robert Boroffice, that the fund stolen in the last one year was enough to pay allocation of all the states of the federation for four years.

He said the amount that has been stolen in the last one year is N2.2 trillion when converted to Naira value saying the money is enough to bring development to the states of the federation who are groaning under shortage of allocation to states.

irector of Media and Publicity of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has called on Nigerians to interrogate the relationship between Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) as well as Boko Haram and the All Progressives Congress (APC) with its presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari.

Fani-Kayode made the call yesterday in Abuja, against the backdrop of the purported endorsement by MEND of General Buhari’s presidential candidacy on the APC platform.

He said when accosted by journalists that Buhari’s comments about insurgency in Nigeria were worrisome and that his endorsement by MEND, a discredited militia group,

should also give Nigerians and the international community great concerns.

The PDP Presidential Campaign spokesperson said with the way events are curiously unfolding, it would not come as a surprise if Boko Haram group equally publicly endorses Buhari and the APC. According to him, “it is important for Nigerians to take another look at Buhari’s comments about Boko Haram and the way he has encouraged Boko Haram group.

“It is on public record that Buhari had announced to the whole world that it was unfair and unjust for the Boko Haram to be tackled.had killed over 20,000 innocent Nigerians, mostly women and children, after burning their homes and destroying their communities.

I’m prepared to work with all political parties –Elechi Charles Onyekwere ABAKALIKI

E

bonyi State Governor, Chief Martin Elechi, yesterday said he was prepared to protect the interest of all political parties including Labour party( LP), All Progressives Congress, (APC), All Progressives Grand Alliance , Peoples Democratic Party,( PDP), among others ahead of next month's general elections.

Elechi, who said this while addressing stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), at the party’s headquarters in

Abakiliki, said his purpose for convening the meeting of the executive was to inform them of President Goodluck Jonathan’s presidential campaign rally to the state on January 16.

The governor, who expressed misgivings on some of the challenges facing the party, said: “Many people could not come here on time because of some reasons. I'm usually blunt when I speak. Our problems are of our own making, whether we accept it or not. There are conflicting signals for people not to come for this meeting.

10 JANUARY 2015

Two policemen dismissed over killing of Fulani herdsmen Ibrahim Abdul Yola

T

he Adamawa Statae Police Command yesterday said it had dismissed two policemen, while two others were demoted.

They were indicted in the killing of two herdsmen last month in the border town of Toungo Local Government Area of the state.

Some policemen were said to have shot and killed two herdsmen last month in Toungo Local Government Area over their refusal to give out N50 bribe an incident that nearly degenerated into a huge crisis in the area.

Spokesman for the state police command, Mr. Othman Abubakar, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said yesterday in Yola, that the action followed the resolve of the

Nigeria Police to rid the Force of bad eggs.

Abubakar said: “After a thorough investigation, two of the policemen were found guilty of firing the shots that killed the two herdsmen and were dismissed from service while the two others were demoted.”

He further stated that the two dismissed policemen would soon be charged to court for prosecution immediately the courts suspended their strike.

Abubakar said those dismissed were a sergeant and a corporal. The demoted ones were an inspector, who was demoted to the position of a sergeant and a corporal, who was demoted to a constable.He urged Nigerians to support the command in its bid to weed out bad eggs within the organisation.

Peterside rejects police report on APC members’ attack Emmanuel Masha and Tunde Oyesina Port Harcourt/Abuja

T

he Greater Together Campaign Organisation of Dr. Dakuku Adol Peterside, the governorship candidate of the of All Progressives Congress (APC), in Rivers State has dismissed the report of the state’s police command that the party’s supporters were shot by armed robbers and not hoodlums loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a statement, the campaign organisation’s Director of Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, said the police were hasty in their conclusion, arguing that the attacks “were deliberate, orchestrated and well-coordinated” at three different locations in dif-

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ferent local government areas.

She said there was need for the force to train its men in investigation, just as she alleged that the police were partisan in handling the matter.

Semenitari said: “We are shocked at the speed with which the police in Rivers State concluded their so-called investigations which to us would be record-breaking considering their appalling records in investigation."

Meanwhile, a constitutional lawyer and chieftain of the APC, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, yesterday described the allegation by the Directorate of State Security (DSS) against the party to hack into the data base of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as baseless.

ILORIN APC, PDP want by-election to hold

NEWS IN BRIEF

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to go ahead with the January 17 byelection into vacant seat at the Kwara House of Assembly.

The two leading political parties in the state, which boasted of their victories, said the by-election would serve as a testing ground and a signal ahead the general elections in February.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that INEC is to conduct a by-election into the vacant Kaiama/ Kemanji/Wajibe state constituency's seat at the House of Assembly.

LAFIA NIMC registers 100,00 persons

The National Identity Management Commission, (NIMC) in Nasarawa State has said it has so far registered about 100,000 Nigerians in the ongoing registration of National Identity Card excise in the state.

The Coordinator of the scheme in the state, Mr. Nwokpor Chukwuka Mbam told journalists in Lafia yesterday, that the exercise was aimed at assisting government to plan for it citizens.

Chukwuka added that the excise was also designed to check people with dubious characters and foreigners who claimed either states or local government, which did not belong to them.

He stated that the commission had put in place necessary security machineries to arrest imposters with the aim of obtaining the National Identity card with the commission. He also described the turn up of the people of the state for the exercise as encouraging.

33.83%

104

The percentage of individuals using the internet in Brazil in 2008.

Source: Itu.int

The sex ratio of women to 100 men in Channel Islands in 2010.

Source: Un.org

7

IFE NORTH Council rehabilitates road

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State has committed a sum of N20 million to grade a 49-kilometre road in Akinlalu and other adjourning towns in the council.

Chairman of the party in the local government area, Lekan Obisakin, while addressing the people of the different towns who converged on Akinlalu yesterday, said the PDP took the step to make the road passable for farmers without stress.

He argued that if there were roads without potholes, farmers' farm products would be easily distributed to the targeted places, while those to be exported to the nearest neighbouring states would equally be done with ease.

48%

The percentage of coverage of antiretroviral medicines for preventing mother-to-child transmission in low and middle-income countries in 2010.

Source: Itu.int

Edo secures N5.7bn World Bank grant to tackle erosion SUCCESS

Oshiomhole gets a N5.7 billion facility to address environmental degradation in the state.

Cajetan Mmuta

E BENIN

do State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, yesterday said the state government had secured a N5.7 billion facility from the World Bank to tackle the erosion problem at Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of the state.

He said the facility was secured by the government after the state was abandoned to its fate. The Federal Government, he said, had refused to release funds from the Ecological

Fund to address erosion problems in many parts of the state.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Auchi-JattuAfashio-Ikabigbo-Ojio road on Thursday, Oshiomhole said: “Erosion has been a problem that has been threatening the existence of Auchi as a community.

Not only has it destroyed the farmlands, erosion has also destroyed a number of roads and even killed several people.

“A series of petitions have been written to the Federal Government for intervention. I know on an occasion the Royal Highness, the Otaru of Auchi, decided to lead the Auchi community on a protest march and he demonstrated around this area hoping that somebody would listen.

“There was an attempt

to address the erosion problem but whereas the people of Auchi wanted a solution, somebody wanted to monetise the problem.

They gave the job to a contractor who knows next to nothing and he brought a tractor which, he could not reclaim from the valleys of the erosion “I am happy to announce to your Royal Highness that we have redesigned and carried out a thorough study of the Auchi erosion challenge. We got internationally-recognised consultants to carry out the study and they have come up with a design, which would provide a lasting solution to the problem of flooding in Auchi and on the basis of this study, we have forwarded it to Washington for them to look at it and to confirm if the design

is appropriate.”

He said: “We have done our estimate and carried out a bill of engineering measurement. We advertised the project on the basis of those designs, contractors bid and rather than giving this thing to Adams Nigeria Limited as some other people would have done; we have awarded the contract to a competent company, Setraco Nigeria Limited.

“We have forwarded the results of these reports to Washington. You may ask why Washington? It is because we didn’t have any federal help from the ecological funds but we are determined that the poverty of our pockets can be overcome with the resourcefulness of our brains. We have secured facilities of N5.7 billion to address the problem of Auchi erosion."

Group condemns MEND’s endorsement of Buhari Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

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group under the aegis of the Nigerian Rebirth Initiative (NRI) has condemned the reported endorsement of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari, by a faction of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND).

The group, in a statement signed by its Communications Director, Dr. Segun Akinola, said: “Why would a man like Buhari, who is a former head of state and a retired General of the Nigerian Army, would be at ease with such

questionable endorsement by an illegitimate group of criminal insurgents which took up arms against the government and people of Nigeria, the same country which Buhari aspires to govern.’’

The group stated that: “The purported endorsement sends a horrible message to those courageous officers and men of the Nigerian armed forces who are fighting day and night to liberate the territory and people of Nigeria from the satanic attacks of insurgents, especially Boko Haram members that have laid siege to some villages in the northeast zone of the country."

L-R: Senior executive, Ikeja Hotels Plc, Mr. Ufuoma Ibru; Chairman, Mr. Goodie Ibru; Consultant, Ikeja Hotels Plc, Chief Victor Oyolu and Partner, GM Ibru and Co, Mr. Eddie Chukwuma, during a press conference on the crisis arising from control of Ikeja Hotels in Lagos… yesterday PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

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News

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

JOS

MAKURDI ‘Buhari has 80% chance of winning’

N EWS I N BRIEF

Former military Head of State, Major Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) has 80 per cent chances of winning the February 14 presidential election following his wide acceptability by Nigerians especially those from the Northern and Southern parts of the country, Chief Benson Abounu, running mate to All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has said.

Besides, Abounu expressed optimism that if elected, the APC's presidential candidate would tackle corruption, which he said has permeated all strata of governance in the country to a standstill and redeem the country's battered image before the international community.

SEMA to assist communal attack victims

The Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) yesterday visited affected communities of the Mangu Local Government Area crisis and pledged immediate provision of relief materials to the victims.

Executive Secretary of SEMA in the state, Mr. Alhassan Barde, said this in Sarbot and Dumule villages, while addressing some of the victims, who had returned to their burnt and destroyed homes.

The communal clash between Mwaghavul people and Fulani herdsmen toward the end of last year, had disturbed the once peaceful Mangu Local Government leaving seven persons dead, one missing and several others wounded.

€130.9m The total cost of Luke Shaw transfer to Man Utd if all bonus-related objectives are met in the course of the initial contract.

Source: Goal.com

13%

The percentage of NCD deaths that occur in people under the age of 60 in high-income countries.

Source: Who.int

AMUWO ODOFIN APC will lose in Amuwo Odofin if...

The youth wing of All Progressives Congress in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State has described the swearing in of the Council’s Executive Secretary by Governor Babatunde Fashola as an imposition on the people of the area.

Speaking at a protest staged to drive home their grievances, at the council secretariat, the APC youth leader in the area Ayodele Okusoga noted that the youth aspiration was jettisoned in the council, as the woman was imposed on them by the state party secretariat.

“We the APC youth in Amuwo Odofin and residents are tired of impositions on us by the elders in the party, both at the local and the state level. If the kangaroo executive secretary imposed on us is not reversed, APC will lose in Amuwo,” he said.

$24.5m The total salary and extra winnings made by Dwayne Bowe of Kansas City Chiefs (NFL) in 2013-2014.

Source: Financenews24.com

Nigeria at crossroads, say Aregbesola, Akanbi VERDICT

Osun State governor and former ICPC chairman issue a damning verdict on the economy.

Biodun Oyeleye

O Ilorin

sun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, and the pioneer Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Commission (ICPC), Justice Mustapha Akanbi (rtd), have expressed concern over the state of affairs in the country, emphasising that "Nigeria is not working well".

While Aregbesola blamed the nation’s problems on the emergence of people he described as having nothing to do with governance but who have been brought into the corridors of power, Akanbi expressed concern that currently, Ni-

geria is not working well.

Both men spoke in Ilorin, Kwara State at a book presentation to mark the 54th birthday of the VicePresident of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Issa Aremu and his wife, who also marked her 50th birthday.

Aregbesola claimed that due to the wrong administration of the nation’s resources, Nigeria lost about N1.2 trillion to oil theft between July 2013 and July 2014 alone and asked Nigerians, especially those in civil society groups to understand the distinction between a military dictatorship and a civilian pseudo democratic setting.

“The issue with Nigeria has to do with the management or mismanagement of its resources as relates with the type of government we run. Presidential system of government is wasteful and expensive. The real issue with Nigeria is that since 1999 we have had a crop of people who have no business in governance; ad-

ministering our resources and wasting same; and I will situate this position on something that most of us take for granted.

“From July 2013, the Federal Government announced to Nigerians that 400,000 barrels of crude oil were being stolen everyday and as a result the revenue coming to government either federal or states fell by 40 per cent.

We must ask ourselves how does 400,000 barrels translate to 40 percent decline in revenue? Nigeria produces about 2.5 million barrels of crude oil per day, about 500,000 of that go into what they call domestic consumption, so we are left with 1.5 million barrels. If we want to use local calculation that cannot and must not be 40 per cent, it should be at best 20 per cent.

“So, how does 20 per cent now translate to 40 per cent reduction in revenue of government in Nigeria?

If that is too mathematical for us to comprehend, let

us look at what Nigeria has lost in 12 months between July 2013 and July 2014 as a result of the loss of 400,000 of crude oil being lost to theft. Let us assume that stolen oil cannot attract premium price. Between those months oil price in the international market was between $110 and $115.

“Let's say because the 400,000 barrels of crude oil would be sold at 50 dollars per barrel. If you multiply $50 by 400,000 barrels of crude oil you will get $20 million. It simply means $20 million is being lost to theft. Now multiply $20 million for 12 months by seven days in a week and by 54 weeks.

I did a summary of this I arrived at $7.5 billion dollars. Between July 2013 and July 2014 Nigeria has lost that princely sum of money to oil theft. For those of you who can still not comprehend what $7.5 billion means, practically Nigeria lost N1.2 trillion to oil theft.

APC plunging Nigeria into civil, religious war –Fayose

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kiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, has raised the alarm on the possibility of the collapse of Nigeria as a country after the February 14 presidential election, saying; “head or tail, by the utterances and campaign of hate by the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria is definitely on the verge of chaos.”

He said the APC as a party had dragged Nigeria to the brink of crises by branding its presidential candidate, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) as candidate of the North, an Islamist, Jihardists and Sharialist, who is out to return power to the northerners and implement Islamic agenda, thereby triggering a kind of reasoning in the mindset of stakeholders in other parts of the country, especially the Niger-Delta.

The governor pointed out that with the global eco-

nomic meltdown and the utterances of the APC, the presidential election will not be palatable for the country.

He said: “An average northerner who had already been told that Buhari is the candidate of Islam is preaching violence before the election. The APC as a party is saying that it will form parallel government if Buhari loses, implying that the party has admitted defeat and is ready to throw the country into chaos.

“The APC people are already telling Nigerians what will happen after the election if President Jonathan wins.

This campaign of hate from the APC has now triggered a kind of reasoning in the mindset of other stakeholders, especially the Niger Delta people, who see the Goodluck Jonathan presidency as their turn, with the reality that, if Buhari wins, there will be crisis in the Niger Delta."

Osinbajo unfolds APC’s economic blueprint Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

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he Vice-Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has unfolded plans by his party to introduce a social security scheme for the elderly and disabled in Nigeria just as he promised that an APC-led Federal Government will provide 720,000 jobs in its first year, when elected on February 14.

Osinbajo said this on Thursday in Benin City, when he met with the people of the state to articulate the position of his party in its quest to effect change in the social and economic life of Nigerians.

Speaking at Imaguero College Hall, Osinbajo said: “For the first time in the history of Africa, we are introducing a social security scheme. It means the

elderly who are poor and the disabled will be given stipends.

“Now the reason why that is important is because our country has continued to be one of the poorest 35 countries in the world despite our resources. We have 110 million people who are extremely poor, so we need to lift people out of poverty.”

He said: “As a first term relief, the APC intends that state governments will, with the backing of the Federal Government that has 52 per cent of the revenue control, employ 20,000 young persons per state acting as emergency relief.

He said: “If we do not tackle that emergency, we will run into trouble because as you can see, there is a lot of youth restlessness. You will notice that unless we do something about this, we will be in great trouble."

Ikeja Hotels crisis: Goodie Ibru heads to court Chris Ugwu

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Executive Secretary, Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Al-Hassan Barde (second left), commiserating with victims of Sarubot village communal clash in Mangu Local Government Area…yesterday

PHOTo: NAN

he crisis rocking Ikeja Hotels Plc deepened yesterday as the embattled chairman of the company, Mr. Goodie Ibru, said he would head to court to challenge his purported removal as the chairman of the company.

This followed reports that shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of Ikeja Hotel Plc at Sheraton Lagos Hotel on January 7 removed Ibru as the chairman of the company.

Ibru speaking at a press conference yesterday faulted the EGM adding that due process was not followed as the regulatory authorities- the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) were not represented.

“We will go to court to nullify the EGM, it was a ‘kangaroo EGM’ that cannot stand because it was unlawful and not civil.

They did not get the approval from the regulators that’s why they were not represented,” he said.

10 JANUARY 2015

U.S envoy meets Agbaje, Obanikoro, others in Lagos Wale Elegbede

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he United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James Entwistle, yesterday met with chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, tasking them to champion violence-free elections in the state.

Speaking at the campaign office of the PDP candidate in Lagos, Jimi Agbaje, the envoy stated that political parties should mobilise their supporters to eschew violence before, during and after the polls.

The parley, which had in attendance erstwhile Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, was also used by the envoy to urge political parties to ensure issue-based campaigns as they canvass for votes.

Entwistle explained that the US Embassy had been encouraging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to come up with a creative solution to the various agi-

News

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

tation over the conduct of the February polls.

“There is also need for voting areas to have privacy during the elections,” he said.

In his address, Agbaje accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of hurling down posters and banners of the PDP, warning that the development might invoke the reaction of other parties.

“We urge you to appeal to the opposition to at least tolerate the posters till the elections are over,” he said.

Agbaje also expressed his disaffection with issues emanating from the distribution of the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) and the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).

Also speaking, the state party Chairman, Tunji Shelle, raised the alarm that some INEC staff might be compromised by the opposition because some INEC offices were located within local government secretariat currently controlled by the opposition in power.

FCT ‘TETFund trained 8,978 tertiary institutions’ staff'

NEWS IN BRIE F

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) yesterday said it had trained 8,978 academic staff from various tertiary institutions in the country locally and overseas from 2010 to 2014.

The Executive Secretary of TETFund, Prof.

Suleiman Bogoro, said a total of 2, 811 academic staff members were trained outside the country, while 6,167 were trained in the country.

Bogoro in a statement obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, said: “We have trained 8, 978 academic staff from the various tertiary institutions in the country both locally and overseas from 2010 to 2014. TETFund is committed to ensuring the availability of world class physical infrastructure and institutional facilities."

$52m

The total amount of endorsements of Roger Federer (Tennis) for 2014.

Source: Forbes.com

BENIN CITY

ORE

UNIBEN: APC, PDP bicker over demolition of quarters

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have traded blame on the demolition of the residential quarters of staff of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) by the Edo State Government and the protests that followed.

It will be recalled that both members of staff and students of UNIBEN had on Tuesday protested the demolition of over 15 residential bungalows at the Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Benin City by the state government.

The protest, however, turned violent when some persons, alleged to be students of the university set ablaze a government mass transit bus on the Benin-Lagos Expressway on Wednesday and barricaded the busy road for several hours.

10.6

The number of fixed-telephone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants of Belize in 2008.

Source: Itu.int

9

Crash helmet law still in force –FRSC commander

The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has advised commercial motorcyclists, also known as Okada riders, and their passengers to always wear crash helmets.

The FRSC Commandant in Ore, Ondo State, Mr. Kehinde Dahunsi, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ore yesterday, saying the law on the use of helmets by motorcycle riders was still in force.

Dahunsi said the helmet was meant to protect motorcycle riders and their passengers in case of accidents.

17

The life expectancy of women at age 60 years in Cambodia in 2010-2015.

Source: Un.org

Babatope urges Nigerians to re-elect Jonathan Temitope Ogunbanke

F

ormer Minister of Transportation and member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Ebenezer Babatope, has expressed confidence that President Goodluck Jonathan will be re-elected during the February 14 presidential election.

Speaking to Saturday Telegraph yesterday, Babatope said President Jonathan in the last six years had performed creditably well and, therefore, Nigerians should give him another four years for continuation of his 'Transformation Agenda'.

He said voting for the APC presidential candi-

date; Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) would return Nigeria to hands of a tyranny, adding that the nomination of Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as Buhari’s running mate had no effect on the people of South-West.

“It will not be fair to see Nigeria returns to the hands of a tyranny; a man who murdered many innocent people. That would be very dangerous. The people of South-West will vote for President Jonathan because they knew what happened when Buhari was in power. The people of South-West knew what Buhari represents when you talk of Buhari and the South-West,” he said.

Why we went to court, by Ekiti APC lawmakers Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

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he All Progressives Congress (APC) members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly have said they went to court to seek redress over the crisis rocking the Assembly to avoid shedding of blood.

The legislators also said immediately the crisis broke out, they relocated to Lagos for the safety of their lives.

Briefing journalists in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, the embattled Deputy Speaker, Mr. Tunji Orisalade, debunked insinuations that they were being teleguided

by some APC leaders outside the state.

Orisalade, who spoke on behalf of the 19 APC lawmakers, also faulted the intervention by the Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, Mr Taiwo Lakanu, in the matter, saying the police boss was biased in the handling of the matter.

Only 13 out of the 19 lawmakers were present at the briefing, as others were reportedly out of the state for one reason or the other.

“We are convinced about our action. It is in the interest of our people and we have no regret. We stand by our action and we are not been teleguided by anybody."

L-R: Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Mr. Auwal Rafsanjani; Convener, Protest to Power Movement, Mr. Jaye Gaskiya and Coordinator of the group, Mr. Okeke Anya, at a press conference on the third anniversary of the January 2012 uprising in Abuja… yesterday

PHOTO: NAN

O’Neill, ex-Goldman Sachs boss: Jonathan’s loss will boost investors’ confidence DOOM

President Jonathan's re-election bid suffers a major setback from a former Goldman chairman.

Ndubuisi Ugah and Onyekachi Eze Lagos and ABUJA

B

arely 72 hours after President Goodluck Jonathan flagged-off his presidential campaign in Lagos, ahead of the February 14 elections, a former chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Mr. Jim O’Neill, has predicted that a loss by the president in the election may be viewed “positively” by foreign investors and probably won’t rattle markets.

Speaking in an interview with the Bloomberg in Abuja, O’Neill said while Jonathan had presided

l INEC to publish voters’ register Tuesday over the sale of the nation’s mismanaged power utilities to private investors, his economic policies in the last four years, “could have been better.”

He said: “Firing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, last year, who brought “a lot of credibility” to the government, sent out a negative signal.”

“If he doesn’t get reelected, it’s because of Nigerian people wanting something different and better, I think the markets would be happy with that,” O’Neill said. Adding that, “Foreign investors are pretty negative about Nigeria, so I don’t dismiss the possibility that if he lost people actually might react positively.”

O’Neill, who ranks Nigeria (Africa’s biggest oil producer), alongside Mex-

ico, Indonesia and Turkey in his MINT group, said the countries have four of the largest emerging-market populations outside the BRIC nations of Brazil, Russia, India and China, a development which prompted the acronym he coined at Goldman.

In another development, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it will officially publish the register of voters to be used in the conduct of the February general elections on Tuesday.

A statement by the commission yesterday, described the publication as “a crucial milestone in the journey to the 2015 general elections.”

The statement noted that the publication was in line with Section 20 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as

amended), which provides that the Register of Voters for an election shall be published at least 30 days before the elections.

The 2015 general elections will take place on February 14 and 28.

Also, the electoral body has appealed to Nigerians to come forward and collect their PVCs. The commission said Nigerians, who have registered for the PVCs have up to the end of January to pick up their cards.

Chief Press Secretary to the chairman of the commission, Mr. Kayode Idowu, said in an interview yesterday, that the provisional figures released by the commission’s Voter Registry Department on Thursday showed that as of January 7, INEC had received a total of 54,341,610 PVCs.

Voices Would you allow your spouse go into a sham marriage to get a permanent residency abroad? p.12

Street Diary SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2015

10

2015: Movement out of North over fears of post-election violence Yekeen Nurudeen, MUHAMMAD KABIR, and Ibraheem Musa

A

Abuja, KANO and Kaduna

s the February 14 presidential election draws closer, many Nigerians, especially nonindigene residents in various states in the northern part of the country including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja are fleeing their homes over fear of possible outbreak of violence after the election.

This is despite assurances by President Goodluck Jonathan that he will allow credible elections and provide adequate security for life and properties during and after the election.

Saturday Telegraph gathered that many people who travelled home to celebrate Christmas and New Year at their states of origin are yet to return while those who have returned came alone without their families.

Findings by our correspondents across the Northern states revealed that those who did not travel home during the festive periods are already heading home with their families and belongings for what they call “fear of the unknown.”

While those who are less privileged are running back to their home states, many members of the elite class are relocating to Dubai, United Arabs Emirate.

At some private schools, many pupils are yet to resume. Although authorities of the schools claimed that the pupils are being expected back on Sunday, it was gathered that parents are also wary of allowing their children to be in schools before the election period.

An employee of Lead British Academy, Gwarimpa, told one of our reporters that only a few pupils resumed when school reopened last Monday but expressed optimism that many of them would be back on Sunday.

At Baze University, one of the private universities in Abuja, a student was seen seeking permission to travel to Dubai though the purpose was not known.

Also, a top employee of the school disclosed that many students are yet to resume because they are with their parents outside the country and might not return until after the election.

It is not clear yet whether federal government will order the closure of schools across the country before the election.

An official of the Federal Ministry of Education said such decision is subject to the election timetable, noting that government is yet to take any decision on that.

A resident of the FCT who craved anonymity said he had already sent his entire family to his home state in anticipation of what could be the outcome of the February 14 election.

According to him, nobody knows what will happen if either President Goodluck Jonathan or Gen. Muhammadu Buhari wins or loses the election noting that as a man, he can find his way in case of any eventuality at the end of the polls than having his whole family

People waiting to board a bus at a garage

around.

This fear also manifested across the nation's capital as commercial activities are yet to fully pick up a week after the Yuletide breaks.

Areas noted for heavy vehicular traffic at peak periods such as Berger Roundabout, Tipper Garage bridge, Dutsen Alhaji, Bwari Road are yet to experience the usual heavy traffic.

When our correspondent visited Jabi Motor Park, the FCT's central and busiest motor park, the rate of return of buses from different states was still low.

The chairman of the park's branch of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Ojo Ogunsuyi, said there was no basis for Nigerians to be apprehensive about the election.

“Why are people afraid? Was June 12 not worse than this? Did anything happen? There's no reason for people to be afraid or run away,” he said.

However, when asked about the return of passengers from the South West and South East regions of the country to Abuja, three drivers who ply those routes confirmed that many residents of the nation's capital who travelled with their families are coming back alone.

“My brother, everybody is afraid and as you can see, people are not returning with their families. Nobody is sure of what is going to happen after the election and that's why those who went to their villages during the Christmas and New Year are not coming back,” said a driver who plies Abuja to Osogbo.

Another driver who plies Lagos to Abuja said that the failure of residents to return as expected has affected the revenue of investors of transport business.

“The park is dry and our buses coming to Abuja are not as many as they used to because people are afraid of coming back. They want to stay back at their home states and watch what will hap-

photo:newmail-ng.com

Nobody is sure of what is going to happen after the election and that's why those who went to their villages during Christmas and New Year are not coming back pen after the election,” he said.

Also, there have been mass movement of people from the South South and South East in Kano involving mostly women and children.

Mr. Benedict John, who spoke with Saturday Telegraph at YanLemo Motor Park, said he had decided to relocate his family because of the experience they had in 2011 post-election violence.

Another resident, Mrs. Grace James, who was also waiting to board a bus at the park, confirmed that she was relocating to the South.

“I’m going but I may return after the elections. I like Kano, it is lovely and the people could live in peace with their neighbours. But you never can tell what will happen,” she added.

Already, religious leaders have expressed concern over the mass movement of people from the northern part of the country, saying such could send a wrong signal to different parts of the country.

Speaking during a security stakeholders meeting organised by the Nigeria Police, Kano State Command, Chief Imam of Alfurqan Mosque, Dr. Basheer Omar and the Vice-Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, Isaac Bello, attributed the situation to in-

flammatory remarks by politicians.

Both religious leaders advised politicians to make their campaigns issue based rather than making derogatory remarks against one another.

In his remarks, the state Police Commissioner, Adenrele Shinaba, said the police are ready to curtail pre or postelection violence and warned politicians against making unbridled remarks during their campaigns.

However, leaders of prominent socio-cultural associations in Kaduna State have said the mass exodus of people from the north was being exaggerated.

The community leaders who spoke separately to Saturday Telegraph yesterday on the telephone, said that although there was apprehension among their members over the coming elections, most of them are still in Kaduna.

The leader of the State Chapter of Ohaneze, Mr. Austin Amaechi, said that although there were a few instances when those who went for the Christmas break had not returned, “most of us are still here.”

According to Amaechi, the executive of Ohaneze will pay an advocacy visit to a prominent Islamic cleric next week in order to sue for a peaceful election next month.

He recalled that the group paid a similar visit to Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi a few days before last Christmas.

Speaking in the same vein, Alhaji Liadi Durowade, the personal assistant to the President General of the Yoruba Community in the North, Chief Abdul Ganiyu Oguntoyibo, said some of their members who went for the Christmas break had returned to Kaduna. “If they are relocating from Kaduna, they would have told us,” he added.

Durowade, who noted that their weekly meeting would commence next week, said that the Yoruba community had pledged their commitment to peaceful coexistence in the state when they met Governor Muktar Yero recently.

Also, the President of the Akwa Ibom community in the state, Constance Mbong, said that the insinuation of a mass exodus is not correct.

According to him, Kaduna State is part and parcel of Nigeria, adding that the people of Akwa Ibom are Nigerians “so why should they relocate?”

However, the Secretary of Kaduna branch of Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Mr. Adamu Jalaludeen, said that there had been an increase in the number of passengers from the state to the South.

The secretary who said the increase in passengers had nothing to do with the last Yuletide period, also noted that more northerners are relocating from the South East and South South to their states of origin.

Jalaludeen attributed the exodus to the fear of the unknown, especially the coming election, adding that some politicians in the state had abandoned their residences for hotels and also relocated their families from the city to their villages.

Street Diary

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

11

Man needs N12m to reconstruct face deformed by high tension cable

S

Tony Okuyeme eyi Oguntade, 28, like every young man, has aspirations and dreams.

But a horrific experience, which he had about two years ago could dwarf or truncate his ambitions no matter how tall.A high tension electric cable fell on him on March 27, 2013 and the scary effect of that accident had defaced the young man beyond recognition.

Indeed, there are only empty sockets where his eyes are supposed to be. His nose is also gone. There is a hole in the centre of his head which is emitting a nauseating stench.

At present, he needs N12 million for a face reconstruction surgery. The management of the company he worked with before his accident, actually lent a helping hand, but later allegedly abandoned him.

Oguntade, an assistant driver with Billy James Company, Ijesha, Lagos, was sent on errand to deliver a mast to one of his company’s clients somewhere in Ikeja when he ran into that doom.

He could not make the delivery that day because he was said to have arrived late. As a result, he decided to pass the night in the truck with which the mast was conveyed, hoping that the delivery would be made first thing the following day.

While he was sleeping, a high tension electric cable fell on him that night, and caused monumental damage to his face and life.

Although he survived it, his face was awfully damaged.

His scream attracted people who rushed him to the General Hospital, Ikeja, where he was rejected and was later taken to Lagos University Teaching Hospital, (LUTH). At LUTH, the basic treatment to keep him alive was administered on him.

Jude Chukwuka, an actor, philanthropist and coordinator of Ozanam Heritage Initiative, a non-governmental organisation, explained that after some time, the hospital management made it clear that for Oguntade to live a normal life again,

At the moment, nothing significant has been realised, hence the need for well-meaning Nigerians to assist him.

Oguntade as he was before the tragic incident

he needed a facial prosthesis and facial reconstruction otherwise known as plastic surgery of the face. This however could only be done in India.

Chukwuka said: “The company he was attached to as a contract worker took care of him at the initial stage of the accident but later abandoned him when it was obvious that the case would require huge funds. Since the family could not afford the fund, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, decided to help him in April 2014. Since then, the organisation has been making available the sum of N5, 000 every Wednesday for his upkeep.”

Chukwuka said that Ozanam Heritage

Initiative was also making efforts to generate the sum of N12 million required for the surgery in India.

He said, “At the moment, nothing significant has been realised, hence the need for well-meaning Nigerians to assist him.

Oguntade has a wife and two children. He also has elderly parents to cater for. He deserves a chance to live a normal life again.

“It is in the light of this that Ozanam Heritage Initiative, in conjunction with Society of St. Vincent de Paul, are calling on philanthropic individuals, corporate organisations, the media and the government to come to the aid of this victim of circumstance.”

Sensitise security agents, judicial officers on disability rights, CCD urges Shola Adefuwa

A

Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has urged the legal aid organisations working on human rights to sensitise the public on disability rights and access of justice for persons with disabilities.

Executive Director of the centre, Mr. David Anyaele, said this during a workshop tagged: ‘Sensitisation of Persons with Disabilities on Access to Justice.’

Anyaele said that police officers and court officials should be reoriented on the rights of people living with disabilities (PWDs), and the ills of discriminating against them.

He said the Ministry of Justice and Inspector General of Police should sensitise on the need to strengthen the capacity of courts and court

L-R: The Executive Director of Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Mr. David Anyaele, National Human Right Commission, Mr. Lucas Koyejo, and CSO Cordinator Justice For All, Mrs. Chibogu Obimwa during Sensitization of Persons with Disabilities on Access to Justice in Lagos.

personnel to make justice accessible to PWDs through the provision of “access ramps, assistive devices and the training of court officials in the use of sign language.”

According to him, the major challenges facing the courts include cost of litigation, absence of infrastructural provision such as access ramps, sound instruc-

tions and lack of court officials with requisite knowledge on how to use sign language.

Anaele expressed concern that PWDs who sought justice through the police as an institution were often discriminated against, adding that this constituted a major challenge to PWDs in their bid to access justice in Lagos State.

He advised that greater awareness should be created among PWDs on disability rights; noting that this would enable them to know their rights and how to ask for them.

The president of Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Mrs. Remi Badmus, said that a friend told her about Oguntade plight, adding that when she eventually saw him, she was deeply touched and informed some of her colleagues about his plight.

“Oguntade needs every one of us, to be back to life,” Badmus said.

She added that donations could be made through: First Bank Plc. Account name: Ssvp Save Seyi Oguntade, Account number: 2026864396 or Diamond Bank Plc, Account number: Save Seyi Oguntade, Account number: 0057655379.

change of nameS

OJIJE

I formerly known and addressed as Aka Ego now wish to be known and addressed as John Ngozi Ojije.

All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADEDOYIN

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyeyemi Oluwatoyin Adebimpe now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adedoyin Oluwatoyin Adebimpe. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

EMMANUEL

Former Miss Joseph Agbai Victoria, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Victoria Paul E Emmanuel.

All document bearing my former names remain valid. Abia Poly and the general public to please note.

NDIFREKE

Former Miss Ndifreke Monday Nkanta now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Ndifreke Noah Noah. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MISSING DOCUMENT

OYEDOKUN

I Mrs. Gloria Ekeng would like to declare missing original offer of sale for House 75, 311 Road, 3rd Avenue, Kubwa, FCT Abuja Federal Housing Authority (FHA)) Abuja, please take note .

I formerly known and addressed as Akinyemi Taiwo Rebecca now wish to be known and addressed as Oyedokun Taiwo Rebecca. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

MORIS

I formerly known and addressed as Mr. Hope Okon Effiong be known and addressed as Mr. Moris Malachy Akpan.

All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AKPAN

I formerly known and addressed as Grace Archibong Udofia, be known and addressed as Grace Malachy Akpan. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AYODELE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Yahaya Opeyemi Toyin, be known and addressed as Mrs Ayodele Opeyemi Toyin. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Agbejimi

I formerly known and addressed as Padonu Olubukola Afolasade, now wish to be known and addressed as Agbejimi Olubukola Afolasade.

All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

DURU

I formerly known and addressed as Adejobi Olubukola now wish to be known and addressed as Duru Olubukola. All former documents remain valid. Lagos State Civil Service and general public take note.

Voices

SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2015

Would you allow your spouse go into a sham marriage to get a permanent residency abroad?

No, I would never agree to such a thing because your wife is supposed to be with you and I would pray against any situation that will warrant such a scenario.

– Babbre Liman, businessman

Focus should be on God and not man Of course, I wouldn't. Man must always focus on God as his source for help and not man because there is difference between being above and being abroad.

–Enikanselu Paul, businessman

It's a sinful act No, I will not because it is fraudulent, criminal and also a sin against God’s command.

– Abiose Ogunsanwo, clergy

I will never trade my wife for anything I rather don't get married than to marry and then trade my wife for anything because the bible called her a good and favourable thing. So why will I want to trade what is good and favorable to me?

– Mfon Sunshine, businessman

It's not a good idea Sincerely, I wouldn’t want to do such a thing and I don’t pray I came across such a thing that will warrant me to think of taking such a decision.

Though we still have some persons that will yield to such idea, maybe because of money or unfavorable condition, but for real, it’s not really a good idea.

– Dan Boan, businessman

I won’t allow my lovely wife marry another man I won't do that, it’s wrong for me, I mean very wrong for me to allow my lovely wife to marry another man in another country because of green card.

– Alfred Hopo, IT specialist

No, I won't

I won’t allow it

I will never agree to such

I wouldn’t because some people do get permanent residence permit even without marrying anybody. My spouse might leave me at the end of the day and then I will be the loser, which is another reason why most men cannot be trusted.

– Aransiola Wuraola, businesswoman

I would not allow my spouse to have an arranged marriage to get to stay abroad. There are other ways in which he can do that. If he has an arranged marriage then what would happen to us? It would mean he would have to live with another woman, and if care is not taken, they may have kids. My spouse and I would go through the normal means of getting residency abroad. An arranged marriage is out of the equation.

– Miss Ololade,student

It has to be with a trusted wife Yes, I will because there are reasons and conditions. It has to be with a trusted wife.

Then the arrangement has to be someone I can trust too. There are insecurities in this country and everybody wants a secure environment with job opportunity, good medical care and sound education. I had the opportunity of staying for a couple of months in the US and believe me you can do practically nothing there without your papers.

– Biodun, businessman

I won't risk my family for papers I am proudly Nigerian, arrangee wedding is not a valid wedding, I will not risk my family for papers, in most cases children get in the mix and the whole story changes. A man who enters into a marriage with my spouse may demand sex then what happens or vice versa? It is just not clean, if I can’t succeed in Nigeria that means I can’t succeed anywhere else in the world. A lizard in Nigeria will not become an alligator abroad, I am passionately against running abroad in search of greener pastures, I have travelled abroad a few times and can’t always wait to get back home, because here I am a first class citizen but out there whatever rubbish is thrown at me, I have no choice but to endure.

– Deji Olatunde, photographer

It's an abomination It is an abomination for my wife to marry another man. I don’t care about her reasons. As long as we are not divorced, no arrangee marriage can take place. A woman does not get married to two men at the same time under whatever reason you may give.

–Collins, public servant

It is not necessary to leave Nigeria First, I don't believe it's necessary you leave the shores of this country to make it. It's not where you live, but who you are.

– Ayeni Aderemi, graphic artist

I won’t allow my wife do it No, I won’t because for her to go into such a relationship, a lot must have happened between them and it will be stupid to say I would still want to marry such a lady.

– Ishola Azeez, student

I can’t put our relationship at risk On my own part, I would not even give it a thought because it is a no for me. I can’t put our relationship at risk just because of money. Though it is all about your choice, if she insists she wants to do it then it's better we part ways.

– Olaoye Kolawole, banker

It's a tough decision It is a tough decision to make, but as for me, it is a big no. If it were to be the man in question, it will be quite easy for the lady to accept than the other way round. The relationship is more precious to me than the material things.

– Isaac Oremeji, lecturer

compiled by

JOHN EDU, AYILARA DAYO AND CHIAZOR PEACE UDUH

12

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2015

SATURDAY

WeekendDelight 13

C o n v e r s at i o n

Books A piece of inspiration p.18

WALE OJO

TV & Radio

Acting on the same set with Marlon Brando was fantastic

The L.A.B.I Show with Labi Olayori p.23

Love&Living ‘My husband used my mother for rituals’ p.35

Wale Ojo, awards-winning Nigerian artiste, is a guest actor in the popular Tinsel drama running on DSTV and nominated as best actor for his role in the comic TV series, Meet the Adebanjos – in the Africa Magic Viewers Award, holding next month. He cut his teeth on the world stage over 20 years ago and has since never looked back. He shares his life’s journey as a professional actor and his plan to make a watershed movie Kalakuta Express on the life and times of Afro beat legend, Fela Anikulapo, with ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA

Hospitality

MY INVOLEMENT WITH TINSEL Well, Tinsel actually have been looking to book me maybe for two or three years now but I have been so busy within that time and when I informed them that I have decided to stay in Nigeria permanently, they were so happy.

Before I used to travel a lot, spend a month here and then go back but now that they know that they would have me on the ground for a while, they just grabbed me and here we are.

It has been great, the actors have been good, the crew is fantastic and they all have respectful for me and what I have achieved in the business. I am happy to work with Nigerian actors that are very well grounded and contributing something to the entertainment industry.

Meros Villa: Home of style and comfort p.39

I ENJOY PLAYING NOSA It is good, I think it is a very interesting character to play because I enjoy playing Nosa. But I don’t relate personally with the character apart from creating it so that the audience can identify with it.

TINSEL WILL SET A GOOD PACE FOR THE COUNTRY I think they can go for as long as possible. It is Africa most watched soap. I have had a lot of very good feedbacks for doing the show. So, I think from that point of view, they will only go from strength to strength. I have a lot of interest from people outside Africa - America and South America who have also expressed a lot of interest in the programme. I think it will work as an exchange. Tinsel is just a tip of the iceberg because we have a whole lot of stuffs that we can export.

MY UNCLE INTRODUCED ME TO NTA IBADAN Well, my mother used to get me all these Michael Jackson’s posters and I used to watch a lot of Hawaii Five ’O movies, those old series. I was a great fan of Hubert Ogunde at that time, people like Baba Sala, all those guys. So, as a child I used to mimic them and entertain the family.

Then one day my uncle just decided to take me to NTA Ibadan and then he got me into a film production there. As far as I was concerned I was in heaven because I really wanted to know what was behind those cameras. I was convinced when I was watching TV that there were little men inside the TV that made things happen because the magic was stupendous to me.

When I actually got into the TV station I was overwhelmed and joyous to see them. When I started acting I never stopped, I did a lot of different TV series and worked with different directors. Then I went to study abroad (United Kingdom). I studied drama in the university then came out of the university and became a professional in the United Kingdom and from there I have worked worldwide. © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

OJO

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

A SON AND MOTHER’S LOVE

14

Weekend Delight

| Conversation

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

‘My breakthrough was Meet the Adebanjos’ funds that they have set up, that is fine.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 3

FOR THE THEATRE Initially, my parents met in London because my father was involved with the diplomatic service and they married in London and they gave birth to my brother and I in London. We came to Nigeria when we were very young, two, three years old.

My mother was best friend to the late Prof. Zulu Sofola who was one of Africa’s foremost female playwrights. So I was very comfortable in that environment and that is how I grew up. I grew up loving the theatre.

I remember running unto the stage during the performance of ‘Wedlock of the Gods’ when my mummy collapsed and died on the stage. I ran to the stage screaming ‘mummy, mummy’ that was at the Arts Theatre in University of Ibadan.

The audience looked at me and laughed and laughed and then applauded. Auntie Zulu came and picked me up from the stage and took me to the back stage and said mummy is okay.

That memory I can never ever forget and of course, I went back to that stage to perform many, many years later with Tunji Sotimirin. For me, that was a very impor... with film maker, Tunde Kelani tant part of my own development.

Mother, my mother was an actress and it was my mother’s uncle that took me to NTA “I remember running Ibadan. My mother used to take away all my onto the stage during the drawings because then I used to draw all these caricature drawings and Auntie Zulu performance of ‘Wedlock would take them from her and say leave him alone because there could be a fantastic of the Gods’ when my play in there. mummy collapsed and died I think I grew up with two women who were both my mothers – Auntie Zulu and on the stage. I ran to the my own mother. They were both amazing. stage screaming ‘mummy!

I could sit and listen to them for hours. Of course, my mother thought I would grow Mummy!’” out of it and my father wanted me to be a lawyer; but I didn’t grow out of it.

I kept going and going and at some points I actually said ‘you know what I great doing the play.

I knew then at that point that I wanted don’t need anybody’s help.’ I have to do this on my own. I remember doing that to do this the rest of my life. When l left from the age of 18. My mother had proper- the university and I did ‘Othello’, I got inties in London but I decided to go and live volved with the BBC for awhile; I worked on my own to be able to do it on my own. with Prof. Wole Soyinka at the BBC Radio.

It was good and I remember once when We did ‘Death and the King’s Horsemen’ I got a job in South Africa and they sent this and then years again we did ‘King Baabu,’ tinted, very sleek-looking Mercedes car to we did ‘Beautification of the Area Boys’ pick me up and I said to the driver, ‘bros, at the time that Gen Sani Abacha was in let me just go 10 minutes down the road to power. my mother’s house so that she can see that SOME OF MY LANDMARKS MOVIES her son didn’t do too badly.’

I would say one of the ones that stood MY MOTHER HAS BEEN EXTREMELY out was in 1999 when I did a play called the SUPPORTIVE ‘Widower’s Houses,’ which was performed Of course, she has been very supportive, at the National Theatre in Great Britain and extremely supportive. When I got together that was a landmark for many reasons. One, six, seven actors then she paid for it, she the director was an actress whom I admired, sponsored the whole thing. Then my mother Fiona Shaw; she is a very established actress. would also pay for me to fly in from London It was blind casting, they cast me as because I didn’t want to miss what was hap- an upper class English gentleman, and I pening in NTA Ibadan and she would now wasn’t playing a typical role for a black fly me in to come and do something with actor. But the lady saw my audition and NTA Ibadan and then fly me back. She has gave me the role and it was great when I been extremely supportive and I don’t think performed it. It was when I met Ben Okri that I have had a more supportive mother. (Nigerian author and Booker Prize winI am blessed in that regard. ner). Okri was on their board and he saw me, he saw the show and he loved it.

I PLAYED THE ROLE OF OTHELLO AT 22 After that another landmark production Within six months or so of my gradu- which I loved was when I worked with Noration I was hired professionally by the man Beaton. Norman Beaton is a great JaShakespeare Players. My first play was maica actor, very, very popular in England, Othello. I played a very young Othello at our best black actor in England at that time.

22 and it was quite challenging to do that.

I worked with him in Manchester and we I auditioned and they liked me and I did an anti-apartheid play. The other landsaid to myself, ‘waoh! Othello, can I play mark for me was another anti-apartheid this guy at this young age?’ But I was chal- play called ‘Master Harold and the Boys,’ lenged, so I went deep into it. I loved it and written by radical writer, Athol Fugard. ever since then I have had a passionate love I then did a movie called Ezra in Rwanda, for Shakespeare’s works. which was about the genocide that hapI want to do that play actually and re- pened in Sierra Leone and I played a kind of adapt it to Africa and it is one of the projects militant evil terrorist leader. But it was great; that I have now. Yes, at that point it was we shot for six weeks in Rwanda, going into

PHONE SWAP IS MY BEST NOLLYWOOD FLICK It got to be ‘Phone Swap’ because of what it has achieved. When I did the film I had a great time and walked away, got into another project and all of a sudden immense feedbacks. I was invited to Tokyo, Paris, London, South Africa, and I won the best actor award in Nigeria Entertainment Awards in New York. I got nominated for African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for Phone Swap, I got an incredible amount of fans base because of Phone Swap, and the film did a lot.

I think it stands out as one of those films that are breaking boundaries and till today, three or four years after I have done this film, people still approach me on the streets of Lagos and tell me how much they enjoy watching this film. So for me, it was a great introduction into the Nigerian cinema scene because it came in with a big bang.

It was a different kind of film and when I showed it at the British Film Institute in 2010 it was all a packed out auditorium, mostly international audience and they loved it. Most of them have never seen a Nigerian film before. the jungles in Rwanda. I did that in 2006.

I worked with a director who became very, very famous called Guy Richie, my short film ever, it was called the ‘Hard Case’ and that was done in 1986.

Another landmark for me was working with Oliver Parker who was a great film director and Rowan Atkinson.We did a movie, ‘Johnny English Reborn’ and that was in 2010.

ACTING ON THE SAME SET WITH MARLON BRANDO WAS FANTASTIC We did a film called the A Dry White Season, I only played an extra in that movie but for me, it was like I got an Oscar. To be in a movie with Marlon Brando, to be on the same set watching the man perform was great. Again, it was another anti-apartheid play; there were lots of actors in that film. It was a great film directed by a black director. I think it was 1998. And for me, that was fantastic.

MY BREAKTHROUGH WAS MEET THE ADEBANJOS But the big breakthrough came when I got approached by two Nigerians - Andrew Osayemi and Debbie Odutoyo - and they said to me, ‘Mr. Ojo we know that you come between here (London) and Nigeria a lot, we want to do a series about a Nigerian family that lives in London and we are hoping that it will go worldwide.’

I said this is very interesting because in all of Britain there wasn’t a series like that.

The only last one was a series called ‘Desmond,’ which was about a Jamaica family, the cast was then headed by Norman Beaton whom I knew and after that there was no film and the Nigerian population at that had grew and so I did it.

The series was called Meet the Adebanjos and it became very successful and I won awards for it, it was brought into Nigeria and we have done two seasons of that programme now. I am nominated for an African Magic Viewers Awards (AMVA) for that particular programme.

WE CAN COMPETE WITH HOLLYWOOD AND BOLLYWOOD There is a huge market, a worldwide market for our films and we are in a position where we can compete with Hollywood and Bollywood. We do not need government’s intervention but if the government says that they want to come in like the South Africa government, they have

HALF OF A YELLOW SUN, A VERY AMBITIOUS PROJECT I thought it was a great project for him to do and so, I was merely supporting a friend. I thought it was a very ambitious project but a very necessary project to show how much more that we can do. It was great to have those great actors on board, Danny Newton, John Gboyega, Chinweta Ejiofor, Genevieve Nnaji, and Onyeka Onwenu. For me, it was something I would want to do and will do in my own film to bring the cream of our Nigerian talents outside and our Nigerian talents at home together. It is a win-win situation.

That is what Biyi achieved splendidly with Half of a Yellow Sun. The future has to be to bring that cream of talents that we have out there and the talents that we have here and combine them to create explosive movies and that is down also on those actors out there and their agents actually.

MY PASSION IS TO HONOUR FELA WITH KALAKUTA EXPRESS MOVIE It has been a very fulfilling journey. You know the creative hunger because there is the artistic hunger to always want to entertain, to do it better and so you keep asking, what is the next step?

For me now, it is to do my film that is, Kalatuta Express. That is my passion because I just want to be able to honour the prophet in his own home. By that I mean Fela and I want to be able to do it with music, with live music.

And that sound track is going to be an incredible sound track. I have got people like Sound Sultan, great artiste. We want to do something that is powerful, that Nigerians would love and that would speak to the hearts of Nigerians. And I believe that that movie is Kalakuta Express. And I also believe that the world is waiting for that movie.

In 2015, we are going to shoot this film and we are going to get it out to the world, we are going to pay homage to Baba, Abami Eda and then we see what is going to happen from there. But it would send a tidal wave rolling and that I am sure.

CORRECTION In the December 27, 2014, Conversation, we erroneously used the pictures of this week’s personality, Wale Ojo, for the story entitled ‘The Recognition I Got from Maami Has Been Phenomenal’ and which featured the artiste, Wole Ojo. The error is regretted. – EDITOR

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

15

fashion etiquette Dressing for a job interview

F

Bovi

Alex Ekubo Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

Dressing right for the office

H

Angela Davies ow would you rate the way you dressed to the office last year?

Well, dressing suitably for the office could sometimes be a difficult task especially when it comes to picking and combining outfits.

Once you get the basics right, you are set to look good and impress at the office.

However, when dressing for the office, you should bear in mind that to a large extent, everything depends on your office dress code. Although, dress codes vary from office to office, but there are still a few key pieces that tend to define the traditional office wardrobe.

• If you do not want to be completely dressy in suit, then, opt for a pant, crisp shirt, tie and well polished shoes.

• You could also wear a matching pant and waist coat with complementing shirt and neck tie.

• When it comes to suits, opt for colours like timeless black, classic grey and navy blue single-breasted styles that will nicely complete your work wardrobe.

• Sometimes, it is ideal to complete your dressing with a blazer when you don’t want to wear a complete suit. So, blazers present you with an extra choice, nonetheless, neutral colours are always a great option.

• Pants are a necessary part of every man’s wardrobe. So, mix and match them with various dress shirts, blazers and ties. Opt for solid colours like black, blue, grey and brown, as they are more office friendly.

• Shirts are equally essential. Wear dress shirts in beautiful cool colours. You can never go wrong with white or light blue.

Joseph Benjamin

Wearing solid-colour long-sleeved shirts that are always tucked in is a safe bet.

Also, subtle pinstripe shirts paired with solid colour trousers is a great choice.

In addition to what you wear, it is also the little things that make a big difference in the impression you want to make at the office.

• So, as much as possible, avoid wearing patterned and white socks. Instead, stick with neutrals like black, blue or brown.

• Wear a white undershirt or singlet underneath your dress shirt.

• Your belt should match your shoe and should be minimal in appearance. So, avoid using belts with oversized buckles.

• Feel free to opt for colourful, printed style tie that complements your suit as well as pant and dress shirt.

• If you decide to wear just pant and dress shirt, ensure you always tuck in.

• Avoid wearing loud print shirts or Tshirts and ripped jeans to the office.

• If you decide to dress casual on Friday, casual does not mean sloppy. So, whatever you decide to wear whether traditional attire, jeans and T-shirt or even jean, shirt and blazer, it should be clean and in good condition.

And finally: • You should check regularly for missing buttons, dangling threads and signs of wear and tear on your dress shirts, pants and suits to avoid looking tacky.

• Your outfit should fit perfectly. So, do not wear oversized suits, shirts, pants and blazers.

Remember, you don’t have to follow fashion, just dress appropriately to impress at the office.

or women who recently got a call or email to attend a job interview or looking forward to attending job interviews soon, as much as you want to dress to impress, there are rules to follow when it comes to dressing for a job interview.

The best way to dress for that job interview is to wear a skirt suit. You should opt for are neutral colours like blue, black, grey or even brown. The trick is to look conservative and professional no matter the position you applied for. Also, wear an appropriate length skirt and avoid tight and mini-skirts.

A cotton or silk blouse in a neutral colour with a simple collar is acceptable. However, you should not wear a sleeveless blouse, just in case you have to take off your jacket. So, wear a blouse that fits comfortably in a cool colour and style.

You could also opt for a skirt and blouse and throw in a complementing jacket. Choose and wear shoes that compliment your outfit and handbag. Also, your jewelry and make-up should be very minimal.

16

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Accessories to live for

Essential accessories men should have Accessories are not only an integral part of women’s wardrobe. There are also essential and timeless pieces men should have in their wardrobe this year, writes ANGELA DAVIES.

W

e always talk about musthave accessories for women, but what about for the men folk? Well, men will not probably carry a cute box clutch or sport lovely embellished bangles, but there are a few essential accessories every man should have to help him coordinate his outfits and overall look.

Here are items which every man should own: Black leather shoes – Every man should have at least two pairs of black leather shoes in different styles which can be easily paired with any kind of outfit.

Loafers – These smart and casual slip-on shoes come in different colours and styles to select from. They go well with denims, shorts and native attires.

Belt – A high quality leather belt in clack and chocolate brown are the colours that can make a huge difference for men who want to stand out in the crowd. These colors are fantastic because they can easily match well with almost all outfits and suits. Also, you could opt for a reversible belt with two sides. A simple twist of the buckle switches it from brown to black and vice versa.

Watch – You should invest in an exceptional time piece this year. You could opt for a nice black leather watch or metal watch in gold or silver or even a combination that will go with anything from a suit to your casual Friday outfit as well as your traditional outfits. A nice and stylish timepiece will make you look classy, no matter what you are wearing. So, it is better to have one nice wristwatch than several

grungy timepieces.

Neck tie - Neck ties are an important accessory for every man’s corporate and semi corporate look. So, the greater the numbers of neck ties that a man has, the better but go for quality neck ties. It is ideal to have ties in different colours that you can pair with your different suits as well as pants and dress shirts.

Wallet – You should have at least a cute wallet to store your money and identification documents. There are lots of high quality wallets in different colours and styles to select from at affordable prices. However, opt for a black or chocolate brown wallet.

Socks – Socks come in various colours and fabrics to choose from. Nevertheless, cotton socks have been the preferred choices for many men and the right colour should be worn to complement the colour of the shoes.

Sunglasses – Every man should own a good pair of sunglasses. Other than protecting your eyes from sun rays, sunglasses also add a touch of style. There are many styles that are available but in recent years, aviators have become a popular sunglass choice among men which they wear with formal and informal outfits.

Cuff Links – They instantly give a corporate look. There are many smart and clean cufflinks that come in different styles, materials and colours which you can select from. However, ensure you have silver and gold in your cuff links collection.

Handkerchief – They are equally important. You can buy any colour you desire but for the gentlemen, white handkerchiefs are preferable. Just keep it tucked away in your back pocket at all times.

Briefcase that doubles as an overnight bag – Get a briefcase that is strong, multi-functional and made of fine leather. You should own one that can be carried by the handles or slung over the shoulder as the need maybe.

It should be small enough for everyday office use, but roomy enough to fit a change of clothes, toothbrush and paste as well as other small necessities for a quick overnight trip.

Flip flop – You should own at least a black and brown leather flip flops which you can wear with your traditional or casual outfit as the case maybe.

Hats – It is important to have face caps as well as bowler hats in different colours and styles in your wardrobe because you do not know when they will come in handy.

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

17

MY STYLE

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

Facts Joan Ibuzo officially launched her fashion brand, House of Marie in 2009. It is one of Nigeria’s leading fashion houses with a store and distribution center in the United States. She studied Economics at the University of Sokoto but she went into fashion which has always been her passion from childhood.

The monochrome edge His job is transforming looks with his beautiful designs. And it should be expected that Samuel Elendu, creative director of Samuel Elendu Couture, would himself pay particular heed to his looks, writes ANGELA DAVIES. How would you define your style?

My style speaks simplicity, comfort and timeless.

What determines the kind of outfits you wear?

The occasion matters. For instance, if I am attending a wedding, I should wear a corporate outfit or wonderful native attire. If it is a gettogether, I dress to suit the occasion as well. But I am really not a jeans person.

What kind of outfits take up the most space in your wardrobe?

That will be my plain chinos trousers and shirts.

Outfit you're unlikely to be caught wearing I can’t wear flip flop outside my house. The only one I have is the one I wear to the bathroom.

Is there a fashion accessory you cannot do without?

My wristwatches, because they are one of the most fashionable pieces men wear.

Do you have a favourite designer?

When I was growing up, I use to admire Frank Osodi and I still do. When it comes to evening and wedding dresses, he is perfect. Mai Atafo’s suits are wonderful and Deola Sagoe, I love the way she puts her pieces together. Lanre Da Silva

Ajayi brings in the whole sequins and laces which I love. And then Ituen Basi is an inspiration to me.

Her ankara pieces are lovely. I will say she is just a total package.

Signature perfume I use Envy by Gucci or Hermes.

These fragrances are wonderful and unique. They are not so harsh and I feel comfortable wearing them.

Can you still recall the most expensive fashion item you ever bought?

My black Christian Louboutin shoes with spikes in front.

Who is your fashion role model?

Chidi Mokeme. I love his fashion sense, he is a good dresser.

I have never seen him go wrong with fashion. Also, Mai Atafo, he is a total package when he steps out.

White sleeveless mini dress

T

he fashion face-off of this week is between stylist, Lilian Unachukwu and television presenter, Ariyike Akinbobola. And the outfit in contention is a white mini dress.

Both ladies wore different styles of white sleeveless mini dress to the first ever Boxing Day White Party held on December 26, 2014 at Muri Okunola park, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Unachukwu wore a white round neck sleeveless mini dress that flaunted her spotless legs which featured peplum detail at the front. The curvy lady styled her sexy look with a statement necklace, pearl stud earrings and elongated her spotless legs with a white T-strap pencil heel sandal that showcased her well polished toe nails.

She completed her look

spotting side part hairstyle weaved into a ponytail, light make-up that emphasized her well shaped eye brow, eyes and red pout.

Akinbobola on her part wore a white canoe neck sleeveless mini dress that also flaunted her well toned legs. She accessorised her dress which featured cutouts close to the neck area with silver studded bangle, earrings, colourful box clutch and cute strappy sandal that also displayed her polished toe nails. Spotting a centre part hairstyle flowing down her shoulders, she completed her look with a simple translucent make-up.

Well, although both ladies wore similar white sleeveless mini dress, nevertheless, who do you think rocked it better?

Is it stylist, Unachukwu or presenter, Akinbobola?

Men’s suit lapels were not very wide during the 1920s, which was a trend that was started during World War I.

Fedora hat first appeared in 1882 as a female hat. The hat soon became a popular fashion for women especially for women’s rights activists.

Liquid liner was invented in the 1960s and became hugely popular.

Do you love shoes?

I am a shoe freak. I have loads of shoes in different colours and styles especially black, brown, red and blue.

Best colour I like black and white. I love black a lot but white is my best colour. It is difficult for me to be all dressed up without using a white outfit or something with a touch of white on me.

Akinbobola

Unachukwu

18

Books

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

A piece of inspiration

Reflection with

Tim Akinleye 08098668480

I

Michael Uchebuaku

f you are used to reading books that fit into any of the genres of literature, you may be disappointed to find that this book is neither prose nor poetry nor drama.

Furthermore, it is not divided into sections and has no chapters. But that is just what makes the book unique.

Victoria Praise Abraham's new book, Hope on the Go, is simply what it is - a book of life. It is a book that strives to address the main issues of life with the aim of offering comfort and direction to you in order to give you hope to carry on and make life easier for you.

In today's world, hope seems to be in short supply and many people seem to be giving up because of the difficulties they encounter in their life's struggle. In developing countries like Nigeria and other African countries, the pain is felt even more sharply due to rising levels of unemployment, poverty and hunger.

Hope on the Go is a collection of quotations and witty sayings which offer much needed hope, inspiration, motivation and encouragement to readers of all ages and from all walks of life. The aim of the book is simple: To inspire and motivate you to greater heights.

The author, using simple language and a frank approach to issues, begins to communicate with her readers right from the first sentence. She simply says it the way it is.

She appeals to both young and old with her witty sayings and quotations.

They say that a picture speaks a thousand words. The author understands the importance of combining words with images in order to drive the point home and she does that excellently.

Each and every quotation or witty saying contained in the book is rightly illustrated with a beautiful picture. The pictures or images fit in nicely along with the quotations, which makes the reader easily get the point or understand the message the author is trying to pass across.

However, reading a book of quotations full of black and white pictures may not be too pleasant to the reader. It may have been better to present this book to readers in colour.

Colours have a greater power to attract and captivate the mind, and when used in words and pictures as a means of communication, they help the author break boundaries and achieve set goals.

Reading a book full of black and white pictures is like watching TV in black and white when you can watch color television. After all, literally speaking, the author's words are colourful, and it is only fitting for colourful pictures or images to accompany co-

lourful words. However, the black and white images may be understandable in the light of the present harsh economic realities.

In any case, a full colour edition of this wonderful new inspirational book is recommended in future. A downloadable e-book version of Hope On The Go is also recommended, since most people now rely on their mobile phones and tablets for almost everything, in addition to the fact that the book is quite a handful and not portable.

However, the mood of this beautiful book is lively and cheerful, and the reader can feel that liveliness and cheerfulness right from the very first page. The spirit of the book is bold and bright, and the central message of the book is hope, with its accompanying virtues of faith, courage and action, without which hope is useless.

The book strives to convince the reader never to give up but to hope for a better day and to take action in order to achieve his/her heart's desires. Abraham simply tells you to dream. For example, the following quotations in the book helps to pass the message: Do you wish to succeed? Pray and work smart. Prayer alone will not cut it and working smart alone does not guarantee success.

The two together work for success to happen.

Yesterday's fear should not be allowed to destroy tomorrow's dreams.

Another beautiful and uplifting quotation that offers words of encouragement says: When you reach the end of your road, God's road opens up to get you to where you are going.

The book also informs the

reader that God's grace is necessary for one to overcome life's challenges and succeed.

It therefore advises and encourages the reader to go spiritual by reading God's word in order to find the strength to go on.

For example, another quotation says: The word of God releases the knowledge of God which releases the strength of God. Get the word in!

Hope on the Go offers the reader a chance to choose to live again and rise again. It provides direction to anyone confused about which way to go.

More words of inspiration and advice contained in the book include: Be the best! Why be like the rest? Never give up. Never give in. Always look up, salvation is from above!

It's not in the location. It's in the treasure you are carrying.

Your time is your life. Spend it wisely!

All you will ever achieve in life is tied to the quality of your dream. Dream well!

In a recession you need to maintain a happy spirit, a survivor's mentality, and a discerning eye. You must see opportunities while others see threats, see greatness while others see despair. It was Robert Schuller who said, "Tough times don't last, but tough people do".

The quality of the images and the written words of inspiration, advice, comfort and encouragement is superb, and the quantity of hope the book offers is immeasurable.

In reading this book, you will find boundless hope and joy and the strength to maximize your potential and fulfill your destiny.

Hope on the Go offers comfort to the afflicted and acts as a guide to anybody going through a crisis in life.

Altogether, the book helps to inspire the soul, motivate the spirit and uplift the human condition.

If you're passing through a crisis in your life at the moment, you can find refuge in the warmth of the inspirational words in Hope on the Go. The book is like a healing balm or drug which provides healing to the sick and wounded.

Abraham is a gifted young woman who believes that everything is possible through faith in Jesus Christ. She is a trained educationist, inspirational and motivational writer, singer, songwriter, poet and a fired up entrepreneur.

Hope on the Go is a symbol of the can-do spirit which the author, Abraham truly represents. This book gives hope to the hopeless, strength to the weak, food to the hungry and a wealth of knowledge to the poor. It is highly recommended!

timorousray@gmail.com

Rejoice Nigerians and be glad Rejoice Nigerians and be glad, Those whose hearts on God are staid; Who daily on their knees ah they prayed, Hoping all will be well in our land.

Rejoice and be glad for a new year, Through many gales and blasts!

Amidst gloomy economic forecasts, His mercies hath brought us thus far.

Rejoice and be glad for the gift of life, Lots of water under the bridges are no more: Those that have gone though we mourn, Have parted ways with hope and strife.

Rejoice and be glad for another election year, Great chance beckons to make a change; When Democracy its skin renews and shed, That all may choose with care but not in fear.

Rejoice and be glad for the things you have: The shelter, the ride, the job and the freewill, Even your tireless heart that keeps beating still, Above all, for things you want and crave.

Rejoice and be glad for His quietude!

For God’s seeming unsettling nays Are not just part, the mysteries of His ways.

But sometimes the yeses of His loving attitude.

Truly our Luck hasn't been that good, But rejoice for we have one at all.

Thankfully, we are not Syria, Syria at war, Inhaling chemicals from warheads and troops!

Nor are we Iraq, always in flames, Where Peace is costlier than life!

Nor Libya with or without her Gaddafi, Nor America raising rampaging teens in rages...

Shooting classmates for games!

Nor Liberia ravaged by Ebola, Nor where famine lives in Somalia Nor Asia, with her treacherous weather and gales.

Rejoice Nigerians and be glad, Let our blessings count, and cut our losses, Trust in the Lord’s redeeming power and glories Embodying the march to the promised land, Welcome to 2015 Nigerians!

And may the peace of God, And the virtue in His precious blood Be our companion without abeyance.

Amen.

The author (left) and a guest at the book launch

All rights reserved © Copyright Tim 2015

SATURDAY

Queen Ure, Cynthia Morgan bicker over song title

p.20

Atorise Nothing wrong in taking gospel music to night clubs p.21

ShowBiz SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2015

19

Juliet Ibrahim: How I won hearts in Nollywood There seems to be no any other foreign national that enjoys as much camaraderie in Nollywood as Ghanaian diva, Juliet Ibrahim. The actress, singer and entrepreneur is even gaining more popularity in Nigeria than she enjoys in Ghana, her home country. In this interview with LANRE ODUKOYA, the sassy artiste speaks of plans for 2015, her love for Nollywood and charity works, among other issues.

What will you be doing differently in 2015?

I’m not a great fan of making New Year resolutions because people make resolutions they don’t keep up with. Rather, I choose goals I believe I can achieve, goals I realistically see myself achieving with hard work. So for this year, it’s going to be a busy one because I have intentions of improving on what I did last year. So keep your fingers crossed and expect to be wowed.

Almost effortlessly, you have wormed your way into the hearts of Nollywood buffs so much that one rarely remembers your nationality. How did you achieve that?

Well, I really don’t know how it happened but all the same, it’s a wholesome experience. I do more of Nollywood movies now and I infuse Nollywood into the movies I produce myself. I have produced two movies till date, ‘The Number One Fan’ and ‘Shattered Romance’ and in both movies, I featured Nollywood stars. This is to show you that for me, it’s a seamless relationship.

And you would also premiere movies both in Nigeria and Ghana as though both places are homes. How easy do you find popularising your works outside motherland?

Like I said earlier, it’s a seamless relationship and both places are indeed homes for me. I feel as comfortable in Nigeria as I feel in Ghana and I have fan bases in both countries so it’s pretty easy to premiere my movies in Nigeria. It’s not an issue at all for me.

You also have your fingers in other pies, would you actually be giving more time to your other enterprises

as 2014 was more of a 'movie year' for you?

Contrary to what you just said, 2014 was not just a movie year, I released a single, Sholala, and the Juliet Ibrahim Foundation was quite active. We organised a charity event and the proceeds were donated to five people suffering from kidney-related ailments to ease their pain. We were active about awareness of the Ebola virus and even recorded an Ebola awareness song.

Also my House of Glamour boutique is still running, so we’ll still be busy this year too, working harder to make more impact in everything we are involved in.

What plans have you to take your stint in music a notch higher?

I’m working on something major, I will be working on some more collaborations this year, but I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag yet, so you have to wait for it and anticipate something fresh and different.

Would your music dwell on issues outside romance?

Who doesn’t like romance songs? They are oftentimes feel good songs, they lift your spirits and make you feel giddy. Well, we’ll see about that, time will tell if I’ll be deviating from romance to other issues. I may surprise myself too.

What's your assessment of your debut track with consideration on its acceptance?

My first track ‘Celebrate’ didn’t do bad at all, what with its catchy tune and nice melody, it is a happy and celebratory song and considering the fact that it was my first attempt, I would give myself a pat on the back.

Last year, many foundations didn't go far because people and organisations doubted their integrity.

How would you earn an enduring trust with your foundation?

My foundation is not a money-making outfit like most people might want to believe. We put to good use any donations made to the foundation. An instance is the money we raised at the Halloween Charity event, there are pictures to back up our claim.

Besides, most of the aid we give to people are funded directly from my pocket. We are still soliciting for help and financial aid because a lot of people with their ailments are in dire need of help; they need to pay for regular dialysis while some need kidney transplants.

It’s always exhausting as it drains their strength as well as their pockets. You can ask around or go check the records, Juliet Ibrahim Foundation (JIF) is 100 per cent genuine.

What were your unfulfilled missions of 2014?

I won’t say there was any, it was a very fulfilling year, I premiered ‘The Number One Fan’ in Nigeria, shot and premiered my second movie, 'Shattered Romance', in Ghana, released a single, Sholala. Put smiles on people’s faces, got to host events in Nigeria and in America, in fact it was an amazing year. What more would I have asked for?

How exactly did you spend your Christmas and New Year holidays?

I spent it with my family in Ghana.

20

Showbiz

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

LANRE ODUKOYA

SHOWBIZ TODAY

08059296445 lanre.odukoya@newtelegraphonline.com

Queen Ure, Cynthia Morgan bicker over song title

T

here’s a raging feud online involving Ure Adaku Okezie otherwise known as Queen Ure and emerging pop singer, Cynthia Morgan. Though the former has sought and got redress, the mess is yet to abate. Last week, Queen Ure, a banker-turned musician and ex-wife of a former singer who is now a prophet, Soul E, claimed that, Morgan had stolen the concept of her work dubbed Porpori and reworked it to be Popori.

And for this reason, Queen Ure secured a court order stopping Morgan from using the song title, Popori. She insisted and to get a legal cover, she sought an injunction from the Federal High Court in Lagos.

Apparently angered by this development, Morgan went on Instagram to register her displeasure: “Well, I was gonna keep quiet about this Queen Ure Madness. Now I see she isn’t worth it. First of all, I never knew this lady existed because she’s not my generation. I bet she started singing in the 80s, my mum doesn’t even know you because you weren’t relevant in your time not to talk of now. First, Popori is a slang from the South where I hail from and now madam you’re saying you own the word. You’re a failed artiste.”

In a conversation with our reporter, she further said, “Firstly, she doesn’t have the right to copyright the word, Popori, I am from the South where Popori was invented. Until this case, I didn’t know her name existed. Ok, let’s say you copyrighted the word ‘love’ because you agree you own the word, now you don’t have the right to the word ‘luv’ and no court will give you an injunction for such a dumb case. Now here is her case, hers is Porpori and mine is Popori, so where is the case? Make una help me ask.”

Queen Ure’s video for the song titled Porpori (a word she claimed to have coined) was released in November 2012 and her 15-track album was launched on Dec 29, 2012, also with Porpori as title. She equally released another Porpori video in March 2014 alongside other singles and videos.

Speaking to NETng, Queen Ure insisted that what she had done was nothing personal, but preservation and protection of her intellectual property. She described her action as her contribution to the music industry so that artistes can begin to respect one another’s works and start appreciating the act of registering their works Queen so that they can be protected in a case Ure of infringement.

Now that Tiwa Savage is pregnant

E-BRIEFS

Ini Edo’s estranged Hubby Philip Ehiagwina plans another marriage?

T

heir marriage ended in rancour and made the headlines. Ini Edo and estranged husband, Philip Ehiagwina, have since moved on, even if the grudge remains. The actress was the first to pull the first stunt by responding to the marriage scandal with an announcement of her new toy, Benz GWagon. Ehiagwina spat fire and called the lady "a prostitute". Soon after, Ini Edo had a house-warming in her Lagos home and flung open the doors of the abode to celebrities. And nothing was heard from Ehiagwina, but indications are rife that he’s also set to retaliate by marrying a Nigerian lady based in Accra, Ghana.

According to sources, the lady in question may have been the reason Ehiagwina abandoned Ini Edo in Nigeria and moved to that country. When they got married, Ehiagwina was living in the US but visited Nigeria frequently. And if it's true that he’s planning to formalise

Cynthia Morgan

his alleged union with the said lady, it will be his third relationship in 10 years.

Though he has been shielding that fact from the public, those close to him say he is deeply in love with the lady and his excuse that he decided to move to Ghana to set up his business was just a ploy to be close to her.

Ehiagwina’s marriage to the actress broke down irretrievably in September 2014 after six years with allegations of infidelity. While Ehiagwina's camp accused the actress of cheating on her husband, her camp claimed the man was actually a golddigger who was out to get whatever he could from her and that their problems arose when she would not include his name in the deed of some of her properties.

The marriage was actually turbulent from the inception when a certain Nigerian actress based in US, Ruth Okoro, accused Ini Edo of snatching her husband.

A

t last, singer Tiwa Savage is pregnant and this has finally put to rest an old tale of separation. Tunji Balogun a.k.a Tee Billz, her husband, has also proceeded to Instagram to announce the good news. The photograph they had together holding a pair of baby shoes with the caption, “Just the three of us,” leaves nothing more to insinuate about the state of that union. Interestingly too, it’s cheering enough to

know that there will be no more twerking from the lady who’s obviously in her first trimester. This is Savage’s first and Tee Billz’s third child (he had two kids from a previous relationship). Until the announcement, we’d wondered why Savage’s stage energy has diminished.

The vacation has begun and Savage may soon resume recording now that hopping and jumping on stage are prohibited by nature.

Okey Bakassi’s New Year call on bachelors C omedian Okey "Bakassi" Onyegbule has sent out words to bachelors who have been keeping marriage in abeyance for flimsy excuses. His message on Instagram reads: “Contrary to the excuse of most young guys that 'good wife materials', are difficult to find, so many young ladies got married in 2014.

To the single guys who spent the whole of 2014, 'sampling' babes and dumping them for flimsy excuses and surprisingly watching the same babes get married to more serious guys, you have another chance in 2015. Guys pls don't spend the whole of 2015 popping champagne, changing cars, sagging pants and showing your swags while wasting time waiting for a Blend of Mother Theresa and Beyonce as wife material.

Select one out of the babes you have almost wrecked and groom as wife before you run out of best-men for your wedding. Truth is, we don't have 'bride materials' because of too many inexperienced 'bridegrooms.'"

Asa’s marital status may remain the same in 2015

L

ast Wednesday, Nigerian singer Asa who is based in France finally thrilled her many fans with this good news. While being interviewed by Toolz on Beat Fm 99.9 on the love of her life, Asa said because she previously felt lonely and wanted to feel loved, she had to drive 18 hours alone from Nashville to New York t o get inspiration for many songs on her latest album.

This might well be another e x plosive outing to covet.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Showbiz

21

Atorise: Nothing wrong in taking gospel music to night clubs Lanre Teriba, popularly known as Atorise, is an unusual gospel artiste. He sings in night clubs and is never far away from controversy. The chief executive officer of LTEE Records, a music company he recently set up to give wings to the dreams of burgeoning singers, speaks with LANRE ODUKOYA. Your name seems to be synonymous with controversies; is that a deliberate publicity ploy?

I believe strongly that when you are on top, you automatically become a topic. I don’t know those behind the many dirty stories about my person. Initially, when it all started I often felt bad but now, I am used to it and I don’t really care what they say inasmuch as I am in right standing with God. I expect more of the many negative stories because I don’t really care about the hearsays. My job and my personality will always speak for me. Controversies often bring out the best in me and oil my wheel of creativity.

I am just a vessel who preaches about Christ but people expect me to be perfect because I am a gospel artiste. I can never be perfect but I will continue to aspire to be perfect just like Jesus Christ is perfect.

Are all these controversies not affecting your relationship with your fans and clients?

Jesus knows me and I know him, every other thing to me is secondary and inconsequential.

There was a time you sang of restitution in a track entitled I’m Back Home…

(Cuts in) I don’t sing about myself and none of my songs is about me. God directs and He fills my mouth anytime I want to compose any song. I don’t know where it comes from all I know is that God loves me and I won’t disappoint Him. There are lots of people who have gone astray, God is still using that song to bring back the lost sheep. It is not about me but about God who sent me. All my lyrics are beyond me and they are coming from God. Anytime I open my mouth, He fills it with His songs.

You just spoke with a woman on the phone.

Is she one of the women in your life?

You just heard me speak with my wife who doesn’t like to be in the limelight and I want to respect her wish by not discussing her on the pages of newspapers. She has heard many things about me, but she is a virtuous woman who so much believes in me.

But you don’t have more than five children, do you?

I don’t like discussing my family in the newspaper. So, I won’t answer your question.

Are you still a gospel artiste?

I can never stop being a gospel artiste.

Many people think that you shouldn’t have a life because you are a gospel artiste. I have a life. I am not Jesus, neither am I a saint. I am human, just like every

other person. I sing gospel because that is my calling and I don’t have any regrets being a gospel singer.

Why are gospel artistes reluctant to support the Gospel Musicians Association of Nigeria?

We are working very hard to uplift gospel artistes in Nigeria through GOMAN. Churches and even companies are not encouraging gospel artistes in Nigeria. How many gospel artistes are endorsed as brand ambassadors in Nigeria? We have lots of challenges and all we are doing now is to beg our people to encourage us. We also have bills to pay.

They endorse secular artistes thereby making us to feel as if we are not doing the right thing. I often feel bad about these. Churches also expect us to come and perform for them free of charge. But, some of the big churches invite gospel artistes from outside the shores of Nigeria whenever they have events, thereby portraying us like nonentities. They don’t tell foreign artistes to perform in their churches for free. They should encourage those of us that sing about God, either Muslims or Christians. They should encourage us instead of mocking us or focusing on our mistakes. I do my own little thing to support other gospel artistes. It is unfortunate that most of our pastors and church leaders don’t believe in us, if they believe in us they will appreciate us.

What should your fans expect from you now?

I just released an album. So far, to the glory of God, I have released 13 albums.

You recently set up LTEE Records. Was that simply a commercial decision?

Those who know me very well will tell you that money is never a motivating factor for me, because I believe in human development. I set up the label basically for budding gospel singers, both Muslims and Christians. I want to help develop talents for those who want to toe this line. I believe that there is only one God and we are all calling on the one big God in different forms. I am also planning to set up a TV station called One God. I just got the licence for my radio station. These projects are so dear to me.

Many people think that you shouldn’t have a life because you are a gospel artiste. I have a life. I am not Jesus, neither am I a saint.

I am human, just like every other person

Who is financing these projects?

God is big enough to finance His projects; He can even raise stones to finance the project. I rehearse a lot and I charge whenever I am called upon to perform anywhere.

You were highly criticised by many people for performing at night clubs…

(Cuts in) I am the first gospel artiste to take God’s message of liberation and deliverance through songs to night clubs.

I don’t see anything wrong in it, but it is all to the glory of God. I just want people to know that whatever they can enjoy out there, they can enjoy it with God. I perform at parties and I also encourage many gospel artistes to play at parties so they can make a living for themselves.

22

Showbiz

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Ajebo: I'm popularising made-in-Nigeria cartoons Erem Emeka Nehimah known by the showbiz moniker, Ajebo, is a humour merchant with a unique touch to the art. The young comedian has made many appreciate animated comedy, a popular concept once borrowed and tacitly credited to sources abroad. In this interview with LANRE ODUKOYA, Ajebo speaks about the beautiful beginning, prospects and his debut show, ‘Ajebo Unleashed.’

How exactly did your path into comedy begin?

Comedy is what I’ve always wanted to do because I realised it quite early in life. It was my childhood fantasy.

I remember that I would gather some kids together and create jokes on the spot for them and they always loved it and wanted more. It was like kids gathering for the then ‘Tales by Moonlight,’ the stories meanwhile were formed on the spot. The difference is that mine was probably not always told at night. I’ve been involved in dramas and in choir as well, so I’ve always been a boy on the stage.

Most parents want their kids to do certain stereotype skills in vocations like engineering, medicine, law and architecture. Did yours just leave career choice to you?

My parents totally encouraged me because they saw it coming. At first, they naturally thought that might not be the best idea but when they realised the good in what I was doing; they finally decided to go all out to support me. And that was where I got the name, Ajebo, from because normally comedians struggle and their parents never really supported them. That’s why they recount their ordeals that they trek from point A to point B at a particular time in their career. But while others had that kind of experience, my father would release his car keys to me to go for events. I got my stage name, Ajebo, from here and decided to also study something in line with it.

What did you study?

I studied Mass Communication Was comedy already paying at the said time? Comedians were called fools.

Comedy had begun to look serious at that time because Ali Baba had started doing it professionally and people loved what he was doing. In fact, I was nicknamed Ali Baba in secondary school. I remember those days with ‘Night of a Thousand Laugh,’ everybody wanted to see the show. It was that big and captivating. I would watch these comedians and improvise on their jokes to deliver mine to friends and fans that I was already getting from my secondary school days.

So how did the cartoon aspect of your comedy come into the equation?

I knew too many people were already doing comedy and that if I must do it, I must stand out. For some time, I pondered on what to do differently and finally, I got an answer. Let me do something like animation and create jokes to go with, after all, I studied Mass Communication and have a bit of the requisite skills. Starting out with animation was really great because that was a route everybody was avoiding because animations are expensive. But then I decided to do what was uncommon. And after doing some work on it, I just decided to put out a few materials, before I knew it, it had gone viral. The same thing is what made the brand popular right now.

How much corporate patronage would you say you’ve got from your works?

To be honest, they’ve shown me tremendous support. Right now, earlier than I expected they just began to patronise me with words like, ‘can you please come, there’s something we need you to do for us bla, bla, bla.’

It got to a point they request that when I’m coming, I should come with my animation. My animations are playing on the screen, I’m there on the stage and miming the lines along with the animations while they are busy laughing. And it’s very encouraging to get stuffs like this from big brands. And from that point, we’re now

going into advert creations, musical video creations and we’re opening our office, House of Ajebo, this month.

We’re working on some things that we would soon be taking to the cinemas.

How expensive is creation of animations?

That’s exactly the point we are now. We want to stop scaring people away with the cost of doing animations.

Now we don’t want to continue to do it on our own alone, we’re hiring experts to work with us to deliver very beautiful and cost-effective animations that suit our patrons’ need. People used to go as far as India to get people to do their stuffs for them and it was really expensive. But right now, with Nigerian animators, we’re training people so that we can make this service inexpensive to people.

If you never chose professional comedy for a living, what other thing will you be doing?

I would probably be acting or singing because I sing well. It would have still been art basically.

What was your first experience on stage like? Did you get stage fright?

Of course, I had a little of that. But I was surprised at the manner the audience showed love for what I was doing. Then I thought that

if I could get this kind of reception, something in me was prettier than I imagined. It was in 2002 and it was plain stand-up comedy. I began to do animations in December 2012 but the truth is that I’ve been doing comedy for as long as I can remember. Professionally, I started doing comedy in 2006, I was the master compere at the Next Movie Star party in 2006 and the acceptance was love. I won AY Open Mic talent hunt in 2009 and since then I’ve preformed in almost all the major shows in Nigeria before setting out with my show, Ajebo Unleashed, which made its debut last year.

Your comedy show, Ajebo Unleashed, made its debut last year, how would you assess it?

The show was sold out so much that people were standing. It was that good.

I was surprised that people would come out that much to watch me and show me love. It goes to tell that people appreciate what we do. By this year, we’re also going to Abuja, America and UK. People love our skits, they probably downloaded some and have it on their phones.

These are people who haven’t really met me. We’ve just released into the market a compilation of all the animated skits of 2014 so that people can get their copies right now. What I want to achieve is to finally have proudly made in Nigeria cartoons that are not with foreign names. All our kids only talk about Ben 10, Superman; how about a name like Ajebo, Akpos, Sanyeri and so on?

TV & Radio with Angela Davies

The L.A.B.I Show with Labi Olayori

23

This weekend Channels

TELEVISION

Saturday 9:00 Sunrise 12:00 Metro File 1:00 News Track 1:30 Business Incorporated 2:00 News Track 2:30 Earth Files 3:30 Channels Book Club 4:00 News Round 5:30 Dawn in the Creeks 6:00 News Track 6:30 Network Africa 7:00 Capital Market 7:30 Dateline Abuja 8:00 News Track 8:30 The Gavel 9:00 Entertainment News 9:30 Art House 10:00 News at 10 11:00 Face Off Sunday 7:30 Tom & Jerry 8:30 Turning Point 9:30 Metro File 10:30 Health Matters 11:00 News Track 12:00 News Track 12:30 Channels Sports 1:30 African Journal 2:00 Sportsville 2:30 Inside Out with Agatha

T

he L.A.B.I show which means Loving And Being Intimate is a tell-it-as-it-is relationship show. Every week, the host takes on everyday issues in relationships, while proffering solutions to those challenges.

It is a no-holds-barred show which focuses on the upper as well as the middle class with their numerous problems of intimacy, infidelity and domestic issues. The L.A.B.I Show bares it all and proffers solutions so that the people concerned can find solution while helping other viewers avoid similar pitfalls.

As a preamble, the presenter introduces the show, launches the topic to be discussed and introduces the guests who will discuss the topic of the day.

Last week, the topic discussed was, “Goals for your relationship in 2015” and the guest was Daniel Akpata, a relationship coach. Basically, it was all about what people did wrong in 2014 especially in their relationships and marriages that they don’t want to repeat this year.

Akpata talked about the six Ps Prior Proper Preparation Prevent Poor Performance - which everyone needs to be successful in their relationship and marriage this year. He said that people who have been hurt has the tendency to feel bad and hence want to be vindictive. However, at that point you are supposed to stop and be positive about all that happened in your relationship last year because it is not the end; it is just a bend as the road continues ahead of you. So you need to put the past behind you and prepare for the future.

He stated that some people say time changes everything but it is not true. It is doing things differently that changes things. So, if you leave things the way they are in your relationship or marriage, they will remain the way they are. For instance, if a nagging wife refuses to go for counselling in order to get help, she will remain the same, he said.

Also, once a man and a woman agree that there is a problem in their relationship or marriage that is when they begin to chart a new course. And that is when they will both understand that there is work to be done. He however advised that anyone who wants to be in a thriving and sustainable relationship should first and foremost know who they are, where they are going and what they want from life. If you can truly answer these questions, then you will know the kind of man or woman you need by your side.

Also, partners should sit down to-

SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2015

Labi the show's host

gether to plan, talk and design what their future will be like to enable them enjoy and have a successful relationship and marriage. He said that quick fixes are not possible in relationships because such don't last. "You have to go through a process," he explained.

Akpata advised women to be devoted, committed and loyal to their men because these are qualities that could make a relationship work.

Since it is a phone-in show, both the married and single called in to talk about the different difficulties they were facing in their relationships and how best to handle the situation. The host as well as the guests asked series of questions to discern the root of the problem and then urged them to call

back after the show for more counselling. They also ask callers to send emails so they could get responses on how best to improve their relationships and love life. If it is an issue that needs an instant answer, they also give it.

The programme is not only gripping and educative but informative as well. It is really a no-holds-barred show for those who want to have successful relationship and marriage. So, if you have issues in your relationship or marriage, this programme is a must watch. However, they have to work on the clarity of the telephone line. The one hour show which is hosted by Labi Olayori on Friday at 11:00 pm airs on Television Continental.

Desmond Elliot hosts Unleash Ur Creativity Tony Okuyeme

N

ollywood star actor and filmmaker, Desmond Eliot, will anchor the first season of the talent huntshow, Unleash Ur Creativity, organised by Emmanuel Eyaba’s 2et media Network Limited.

Unleash Ur Creativity is a platform to put rising artistes in the mainstream of filmmaking - actor, actress, scriptwriter, cameraman, songwriter, singer, editor, makeup artiste or costumier.

Seven locations are being considered for the camping, they include Obudu Ranch Resort in Cross River State, Federal Capital Territory, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Bayelsa, Kogi and Lagos States.

Seasoned filmmakers will visit the artistes from time to time to give them practical tips on the art and science of filmmaking.

“Unleash Ur Creativity is different

from other reality shows because it is concerned with transforming the total movie industry and not just picking an individual and rewarding him for eating, sleeping and abusing people.

Unleash Ur Creativity rewards hard work, creativity and team work. An individual is not given the price money but the money will be invested in a movie project by the winning team which will at the end make all the participants famous," a statement from the organisers said.

The show, the organisers further stated, is put together by Eyaba Emmanuel Tagbo, a member of the Directors Guild of Nigeria. He studied theatre and media arts at the University of Calabar.

He was one of the beneficiaries of the capacity-building project of the Federal Government of Nigeria on a training programme to Colorado Film School, United States.

3:00 Rubbin’ Minds 4:00 News Track 4:30 Quantum Leap 5:00 Moment of truth 6:20 Seriously Speaking 7:30 Walk the Talk 8:00 Politics Today 9:30 Ogun State Weekly 10:00 News at 10 11:00 Movie

LTV

Saturday

9:00 Voice of Restoration 11:00 School Buggie 11:30 Silent Noise

12:00 Red Hot 12:30 Afin Alayeluwa 1:00 Mariana and Scarlett 2:00 Living Spring 3:00 Laughter ½ Hour 4:00 News 4:10 The Mountain Top Life 4:40 The White House 5:00 Power in the Word 5:30 Health Wise 6:30 Hour of Empowerment 7:30 Oracles of God 8:00 News 9:00 City Scene 10:00 You will get there 10:30 The Greats 11:00 Tyme Out With Tee A Sunday 9:00 Sunday Express Live 9:30 Zakat and Sadaqat 11:30 Burning Spear 12:00 Purification of Soul 12:30 Music 1:00 Mogbejo Mide 2:00 Nnkan Nbe 2:30 Hour of Salvavtion 3:00 Gbarada 4:00 News 4:10 Redemption Way 6:00 Iroyin 7:00 News 7:30 LAMATA ½ Hour 8:00 Sunday Menu 8:30 Crime Fighters 9:00 Music 10:00 Amazing world of aviation 10:30 Documentary

RADIO

Magic Fm 102.9 Aba

Saturday 7:00 Afro Naija Flava 8:00 Hang Over 9:00 At Your Request 10:00 Talk Sports 11:00 Rep Your Club (Soccer) 12:00 Kick Off/Predictor Game 1:00 Those Were the Days 2:00 At Your Request 3:00 It’s Our City 4:00 Old School Highlife 5:00 Music/Talk 6:00 Extra Time 7:00 The Big Saturday

Splash 105.5 FM

Saturday 8:00 Voices 10:00 Entertainment Splash 11:30 Strictly Comedy 12:15 Yoruba News 12:30 World Sports 2:00 Saturday Afternoon Jamz 6:00 News at Six 6:15 You & The Police 7:20 Religious Belt 10:00 Night Shift 11:00 Dj In The Mix

Sunday 7:00 A Day with the Lord 10:00 Sunday Free Way 12:00 Kick Off/Predictor Game 1:00 100% Naija 2:00 Focus on Family 3:00 Tear Rubber 4:00 Campus Line 5:00 Magic FM Music Survey 7:00 Magic Request Line 10:00 Soft Side 11:00 Who’s on Your Mind

Sunday 6:00 News at dawn 6:35 Religious Belt 7:00 Yoruba Sports 8:00 Turn It Up 10:00 Wakati Iyin 12:00 English News 1:00 Dj in the Mix 2:15 Editorial Review 3:00 Reggae Time 7:20 Religious Belt 9:00 Jazz Reel 10:00 Heart Matters

Investigations SATURDAY TELEGRAPH 10 JANUARY 2015

24

Leper colony

Tears of society's rejects

They are like everyone else but different. They are lepers and condemned to a life of misery and loneliness. They are tucked away in an isolated location at Alaba Jakande in Iba Local Council Development Area of Lagos State with no cause for cheer.

Flora Onwudiwe, who just returned from this quarantined neighbourhood, retells the story of these rejects of the society.

A

t first she thought it was just a scar from when an ant bit her. Then it turned into a blotchy red rash that spread from her left calf to her foot. "A girl at school kept asking, 'what's that thing on your leg?'" recalled 17-year-old Mary, who initially worried so little about the painless rash for almost two years after it appeared.

After a close observation, her mother, Elizabeth, sat her down and told her she might have contracted an ancient disease. "What's that?" Mary asked.

"You know, ehm, that could be leprosy,” said Elizabeth as she mumbled some unintelligible words that sounded like a thunderbolt in the ears of Mary.

The news hardly seemed possible— leprosy? "I broke down and cried," said Mary, a once pretty and popular young girl at a government primary school in Jos, the Plateau State capital. "I remembered watching cartoons with Jesus and a leper in the corner all huddled up and his limbs would fall off.” Her family, friends and teachers were stunned by this discovery. “People were astonished to know this disease is still alive,” says James, Mary’s father. “They are more afraid of this than any other infectious diseases,” he added.

Incidentally, Mary is not an isolated case. Aishat, a 65-year-old woman from Kano, also evoked pity; a scary departure from what she had been. Carrying a deformed face, a pair of legs assisted by a walking aid, she looked overused with life’s misgivings. With crumpled up fingers, she could barely grip her crutch. She sat down with a heavy thud on the wooden makeshift bench, trying hard to catch a glimpse of this reporter, who stood in front of her, as she gave her name. She cut a sickening picture of neglect and how not to age.

“Leprosy is highly stigmatising; a fear of infection and lack of awareness cause discrimination against persons affected by it,” said Aishat, who spoke with the aide of an interpreter in their Iba, Lagos State neighbourhood.

Yet, Mary and Aishat are not alone.

Umaru Abdullahi was a full grown man before contracting the disease. He holds a National Certificate of Education (NCE) from Government Teachers Training College, now renamed Kano

Isioma madike

Editor, INVESTIGATIONS isioma.madike@newtelegraphonline.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Victim of leprosy PHOTO: LEPROSYMISSION-NIG.ORG

State University of Technology in 1979.

He taught in different primary schools in Wudil Local Government in Kano State, including Gariki Primary School, in the heart of the ancient city of Kano where he started his teaching career before living for Sani Primary School, also as a teacher.

Abdullahi was a very adventurous young man, whose passion for the profession accelerated his becoming a head teacher in 1982 at Garul Ali Primary School, the same year his life took a new turn. He was struck with a strange disease, which developed from mere skin irritation to leprosy.

He has carried this burden for over five decades now. This has made him Leprosy hands to age fast with his front teeth fallen off. PHOTO: dailyindependentng.com Today, Abdullahi agonises for living apart from his aged mother, who has no other child to cater for her at old age physician in Kano certified me free of leprosy, I couldn’t resume teaching as in Wudil, her hometown.

Abdullahi said, “I had leprosy in expected. This was because my local 1982, the year I became head teacher government refused to recognise the in Garul Ali Primary School in Kano. certificate that made me whole and went a step further to suspend me My mother had us 12; I am the 11th child, but all others are now deceased. indefinitely, rendering me redundant My first wife had a son for me before in the process. I stayed away from abandoning me to my fate. But, my home and became a beggar in the city of Kano; life was difficult as I became mother never rejected me. I went to a miserable. hospital and was treated with a certificate to prove that I was free to resume “That pitiable condition propelled my teaching.” my movement and the only option was But, that was not to be. “Though the to come to Lagos by train to start a new

Fear of infection and lack of awareness cause discrimination life. I was admitted into lepers’ colony at Alaba Rago in 1984, the same year I arrived in Lagos. However, in 1986, the Iba Local Council Development Area chairman moved us to another temporary resettlement centre at Alaba Jakande where we are now,” Abdullahi recounted.

He told this reporter that they are over 200 lepers with wives and children from different parts of northern Nigeria such as Sokoto, Katsina, Bauchi, Zamfara, Jigawa, and Borno. Abdullahi, who is fondly called teacher by the other residents of the settlement, has remarried to a young girl whose father is also a leper in the colony. They now have four children.

“If you see my wife you will not believe that she accepted me as a husband. Most lepers marry one another here, but some of us are lucky to have married women that are clean and

SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2015

SATURDAY

FREE

Sport Splash

Interview

What we are doing in Nigerian League is cut-and-nail, says Obuh p.26

Transfer saga

Esin blames ignorance, greed for Eduok’s transfer travails p.27

La Liga

Barcelona, Atletico tangle at Camp Nou p.28

25

I need help now that I 'm still alive – Eboigbe S

Vincent Eboigbe

Life Style

Mayweather shows off collection of cars, private jet p.31

The Team

Vincent EboigbelAssistant Editor Ajibade Olusesan l Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya l Correspondent

© Daily Telegraph Publishing

unday Eboigbe, tall, hardas-nails defender, one of the greatest Nigeria ever produced is no longer so erect these days. He doesn't cut the figure of one that used to strike fear in opposing strikers, not anymore; he’s laid low by a debilitating ailment, stroke.

The illness that started some years ago continues to ravage the former international so much so that the situation seems hopeless and he is at his wits end. The only option available to the stricken star is the help of Nigerians who remember his solid, constant presence in the heart of the defence in those unforgettable days.

It is to them that he turns for help in this his most trying and difficult time. He is appealing passionately for help before the flickering light is finally extinguished, before it is too late.

The street where Eboigbe’s house is located, off Sokponba Road, Benin, Edo State also tells its story: a stretch of un-tarred road that ordinarily wouldn’t be associated with an ex-international of the repute of the former New Nigeria Bank and Abiola Babes defence stalwart. Even more unprepossessing is the house where the ex-star resides, it is just the normal open plan arrangement with no fence, and as this reporter walked down the street still trying to locate the particular house, while calling the ailing retired footballer on the telephone, Eboigbe who was sitting on a chair outside the house, apparently guessing the man making a call on the street could be the journalist, called out to the reporter who just managed to recognise the stricken ex-player.

Eboigbe says with a sob caught in his throat that he doesn’t want to be celebrated after his death but that now is the time Nigerians should rally round him.

“I am appealing to the good people of Nigeria to assist me, I am really down now,” says Eboigbe with tears welling up in his eyes.

“My children are not at home now, it is difficult to even feed them. They are just there, one got admission to Delta State University, Abraka, another got admission to Auchi Polytechnic but there was no money to send them to the schools.

“Since morning, I have not even taken any food. As I am talking to you I am not feeling fine, I always have pains in my head and my eyes and I can’t afford the medicine; I am just wasting away.

“I am begging Nigerians to

Eboigbe

help me out of this situation. This ailment is not for a poor man, most of the people who have the same illness are long gone; it is only God that is keeping me alive.”

The custodians of the game in the country, the Nigeria Football Federation, has a duty to rise to the occasion and pull up this illustrious son, if not from his penurious situation, from the clutches of the devastating illness at the very least. Eboigbe how-

Sunday Eboigbe (left), with former Green Eagles team mates, late Samuel Okwaraji and Stephen Keshi, lineup before a match

ever recalls that the federation had been in touch with him in the past and offered assistance, for which he remains grateful. He also says that some of his former colleagues have been very helpful.

He notes that the money the federation gave him only served for sometime but that given the nature of the illness that demands constant medication, he is caught in a dilemma as there is no money to buy medicine, engage a physiotherapist or even meet the most basic of the needs, feeding.

“The NFF gave me some money, they tried but the money has finished long ago. Folorusho Okenla, ex Eagles player, has been very supportive. He gave me money several times. In fact, he even promised to sponsor my trip to watch the Nations Cup in Equatorial Guinea if Nigeria qualified, unfortunately we didn’t; he has been very helpful and I want to specially thank him. “(Austin) Eguavoen has also been here sometimes in the past to assist me. Henry Nwosu too when he was on his way to Imo State stopped by to see me; Paul Okoku, Peter Egharevba (former Bendel Insurance striker) and a friend of mine called Moses who works with PHCN in Abuja have continued on page 30

26

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

What we are doing in Nigerian League is cut-and-nail, says Obuh

Rangers’ coach, John Obuh, speaks to Comfort Chukwu in Abuja about some of the problems militating against the development of the Nigerian League, some solutions, his philosophy of the game, Rangers’ inability to win the league in a long time and more. Excerpts...

let them play only once in a week. I can’t imagine a situation where players go to Gombe to play a game on a Saturday and come back to their home on Sunday to play on Wednesday. It is too much for them. I know that we can’t help it but if we can take our time and organise and try to bring in sponsorship, even those in air transport business I think our league will improve.

Another thing is the pitches, we need to work on the pitches. Some of these pitches are not good enough for us to play our league. Let us explore the possibility of playing some games in the night under floodlight. So many Nigerian players will tell you that they have never played under floodlight but that is what is in vogue.

That is why it is difficult for some of our players to adjust when they go abroad. I once took a player to Germany he could not run on a treadmill. How many clubs in Nigeria deliberately attempt to get their players used to some facilities in gyms? There are a lot of things that we need to do, it is not just about playing on pitches. If you have an organised team and the coach is exposed to all these things and can take decisions on them, our players will be very knowledgeable about how to use the gym, when to use the swimming pool and when to play on the pitch. Our players are trying because what we are doing here is cut-and-nail. We just try to do what we can to keep them fit but in the actual sense what we need to keep them fit is not yet available.

You seem to have a formidable team so what actually is the challenge of Rangers Football Club when it comes to winning the league?

A lot of things could be involved; football is not all about what you play at a particular time. It is about the way you prepare before the league, how you play and how you go back home and prepare for another match. The way you played today that you felt was very good could be a wrong way to play in another game.

I think that is the problem.

You have a philosophy that players must play the ball on the ground, could this be one reason Rangers did not win in 2014?

Actually my wish was to win; you know I just came from a national team assignment and I was there for five years. I was looking forward to an intercontinental style of play. If you followed us keenly in the first phase, you will find out that we had a lot of problems that had to do with the welfare of the players that we probably did not handle very well.

When we handled it well in the second phase, we almost landed in the continental scene. That little issue affected us. Rangers also tried to adopt my philosophy, putting the ball on the ground and making sure we keep the tide to score goals. I made sure that every ball that is played from defence ends in the goal area of my opponent.

It didn’t work very well because there are so many clubs that don’t have good pitches, so you find it very difficult to play on those kinds of pitches. However, just like I said before, the way it started was not the way it ended. There was an attempt to handle the issue of the pitches to the extent that at least you could pass the ball.

Are you thinking of moving to Akwa United?

Well the problem we have in this country is the issue of one-year contracts because that is the first bias that the people you are going to work with have already shown. In places where people trust, have belief and are sincere they make sure that their teams are well organised and built for success.

There should be attempts to give coaches three to four year deals so that results and sustainability of the results can be achieved because if you don’t get it right the first time you could get it in the second attempt. In Nigeria we are fond of one-year contracts hinting at a lack of concern for development but just emphasis on short-term results. You don’t have any choice than to go along with that and by the time your contract expires it is left for you to either stay

Obuh

depending on how green the grass was when you were there or move on.

Kano Pillars won the league again, what can you say about the team?

What is unique about Pillars?

I will suggest that you take a trip to Kano, take some time to study them, find out one or two things about them and you will be able to answer that question yourself. There is nothing as good as organised situations where sponsorship is regular. Some of the players have been there for two to three seasons and they

The transport system is still a problem.

Nigerian players will give us better performances than we are used to if we can deal with the transport issue

have two cars, they have good motivational structure. Their organisational ability is good enough to achieve results and that is the reason they are getting the results; it is not as if they play such excellent football, it is just about organisation.

What do you want to see improved upon in the Nigerian league?

The transport system is still a problem. Nigerian players will give us better performances than we are used to if we can deal with the transport issue. Let us give them succour, let them travel by air-

You have been chosen by the NFF to go on coaching course, how does that make you feel?

The areas of this course we are going for are specialised, to read matches, not every coach knows how to read a match, the fact that one is an excellent coach may not make him a good match reader. The course is going to be of immense benefit to us but I do hope that by the time we finish with the course the equipment to analyse matches will be available. Because in my A level course we were asked to analyse a match and there was this gigantic machine before us and I could not use it until I had to learn how. I was the most respected coach during that course because I was preparing for the World Cup and I had already attended two previous World Cup competitions before then, but that course gave me further exposure. It is not just about going for courses but we should be able to get equipment and a good analytic board.

That kind of board, a professor cannot use it if he is not trained and once you use it well a player can never argue over what you want him to do because it shows play, the level and speed of a ball, the person on the ball and how you make runs. If you are a lousy player it shows because the opponents will recover the ball on the counter. I just hope we will get it right this time. I have gone for many courses but my problem in Nigeria is that when you come back the first thing you will see are the two goal posts, the corner flanks, the ball and the cone, that is all, no other coaching equipment are available again, no mobile post, no free kick stand, no medicine board, no free-kick pump ball, we don’t have all these things. I believe we will have all these things as coaching is very sweet with such equipment.

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

27

Esin blames ignorance, greed for Eduok’s transfer travails

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Norway why go back on it?” queried the former Lokeren of Belgium star.

“The difference in the transfer fees may not have been more than just $50 000. I have said before that most of these agents are greedy people who look out for their own interests rather than those of the players.”

Esin however faults NFF’s president, Amaju Pinnick’s decision to throw the player out of the Eagles camp in Abuja.

He said that it wasn’t Pinnick’s duty to dabble into such matters, insisting that it was the purview of the Technical Committee to handle such issues.

“The boy should have been left in the team; Pinnick had no business dabbling into the matter after all there is a Technical Committee whose duty it is to sort out those kinds of cases,” said Esin.

“Recall that when Mikel Obi also had similar problem in the past involving Lyn Oslo, Chelsea and Man United in a three-way saga, he was still playing for the junior national team. He was not sent out. I think we should learn to do things properly.

Again, my hope is that this situation does not affect the boy’s career too negatively.”

Vincent Eboigbe igeria's ex-international, Etim Esin, has blamed ignorance on the part of Dolphins player, Emem Eduok, and greed of the agents for the transfer debacle the player is currently entangled in.

Eduok reportedly signed for both Norwegian club, Salpsborg 08 and Tunisian side, Esperance, with the former threatening to drag the player to FIFA if he doesn't join them in Norway after the double friendly matches the Super Eagles will engage in later in the month.

The player himself has been sent out of the Eagles camp in Abuja, where preparations for the matches are ongoing, by the Nigeria Football Federation which says its action was informed by the fact it doesn’t want any distractions occasioned by the transfer dilemma.

Esin noted that the latest transfer saga should serve as a lesson to young Nigerian players who never seem to learn from the past.

“What has happened is just a function of ignorance and I wonder why any player in this age of the Internet can allow themselves to be messed up like this. If he signed a deal already in

Eduok

Sports in 2015: Stakeholders, athletes expect poor outing zzLament poor preparation Charles Ogundiya

S

ome stakeholders and athletes have lamented the poor attitude to preparation for major competitions in the country.

According to some of them who spoke with Saturday Telegraph in Lagos during the week, it will take the grace of God for Nigeria to make any impact in any competition especially the All Africa Games coming up later in the year.

While some countries have started preparation since the conclusion of the last competition in Maputo, four years ago, Nigeria is yet to identify the athletes that would represent the country in an event that is less than seven months away.

“We have to tell ourselves the bitter truth, some of the other countries have started preparation since the closing ceremony of the last All Africa Games; but here in Nigeria, all what we do is to call athletes to camp few weeks to a competition,” a former athlete, Anefiok UdoObong, said when asked about preparations for competitions in 2015.

Speaking further, the Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medallist in 4x400 metres relay (Nigeria’s initial silver medal was upgraded to gold after the United States relay team tested positive for drug) said to win a gold medal in major competitions like All Africa Games, Commonwealth Games and Olympics Games, “you need a serious four-year plan. And when you only come together few weeks to competitions, then you will be relying on the individual efforts of the athletes.”

An administrator in one of the sports federation who craved anonymity said the country would be going on a jamboree at the AAG with the level of preparation.

The coach turned administrator said: “The fans should know now that we are not going to make any meaningful impact at the AAG because the Sports Ministry has decided to keep mute on preparation.

He said: “What we would have used as part of our preparation was the National Sports Festival where we could have detected athletes that

could be called to camp for preparation, but with the postponement of the festival, we are left with nothing.

“I am not sure I will be going to the AAG with Team Nigeria because I cannot put my integrity on the line. The people will not believe we failed because of the attitude of the government, they will be calling for the head of the coaches at the end of the competition.”

Some of the athletes also expressed fears as they don’t even know what would be their fate as nothing has been said about preparation.

A former gold medallist at the AAG who also does not want her name in print said it was unfortunate that Nigeria fails to learn from the past.

She said: “All what we do is to put pressure on the athletes leading to some of them taking banned substances to achieve results. The Sports Ministry should rise up to its responsibilities because time is not on our side.”

The All Africa Games, to be held in September in Brazzaville, Congo, will be the 11th edition of the quadrennial games, generally known as the 'African Olympics'.

Eagles want to avenge defeat to Sudan in Abu Dhabi – Egwuekwe Charles Ogundiya

A

head of the Super Eagles friendly games in Abu Dhabi against the Elephant of Cote d’Ivoire and the Falcons of Sudan, Azubuike Egwueke has declared the team’s readiness to win the two matches.

According to the Warri Wolves defender, the home based professionals want to show the world that they are capable of making the nation proud.

Speaking with our correspondent in Abuja, Egwueke said the team wanted to take their pound of flesh from Sudan who were partly responsible for Super Eagles failure to qualify for the Nations Cup and defend their trophy in Equatorial Guinea, having

lost to the North Africans 1-0 away.

“The defeat against Sudan affected our qualification and we are ready to show them that what the foreign based professionals could not achieve, the home-based can.

“All the players have resolved that we need to start winning again so as to prove to the world that we are not that bad,” he said.

On his next destination ahead of the new season, the defender said he remained a Warri Wolves player but could be leaving before the end of the month as he had been receiving offers from several countries esEgwuekwe pecially England.

Manu calls up Croatia-based forward for Flying Eagles Ifeanyi Ibeh

F

Manu

lying Eagles coach, Manu Garba, has extended an invitation to Croatia-based striker, Theophilus Solomon, ahead of the 2015 African Youth Championship in Senegal.

The 18-year-old Solomon, who is on a season-long loan at Croatian top division club NK Zadar from another top Croatian outfit HNK Rijeka, is a winger but has featured as a striker so far this season for NK Zadar.

Flying Eagles officials, in

a statement made available to Saturday Telegraph, said the striker, who two years ago trained with the Nigeria U-20 team during a training camp in Germany, had been given a January 15 deadline to join the national team at its training camp in Kaduna.

Solomon will be the tenth overseas-based player called up by Manu for the AYC, which kicks off on March 8 in Dakar, Senegal, with a game between the Flying Eagles and the hosts.

A

NO TEAM 1 Juventus 2 Roma 3 Lazio 4 Napoli 5 Genoa 6 Sampdoria 7 AC Milan 8 Palermo 9 Fiorentina 10 Sassuolo

Serie A

P PTS 17 40 17 39 17 30 17 30 17 27 17 27 17 25 17 25 17 24 17 23

NO TEAM 1 Chelsea 1 Man City 3 Man United 4 Southampton 5 Tottenham 6 Arsenal 7 West Ham 8 Liverpool 9 Swansea City 10 Newcastle

P PTS 20 46 20 46 20 37 20 36 20 34 20 33 20 32 20 29 20 29 20 27

the Giallorossi must finalise ownership, having initially paid €6 million for half of the player’s contract. However, Cagliari are now looking for around €10 million if Roma wish to purchase the player outright, a sum which has increased since Nainggolan first arrived in Rome.

Beltrami will then want to discuss an increase in wages, given that the central midfielder has been one of Roma’s most consistent performers and an integral part of coach Rudi Garcia’s title challenging side this season.

Nainggolan

massive clash looms in La Liga this matchday as Barcelona host Atletico Madrid at

League quarter-finals last term the only victory either side have enjoyed over the other in the last two seasons.

tasted success against Real since 2007.

Also on Saturday, Malaga will be hoping to jump back into the European

Barcelona, Atletico tangle at Camp Nou

S Roma will today (Saturday) review the terms of Radja Nainggolan’s contract, with not only wages but also the issue of his co-ownership with Sardinian side Cagliari yet to be resolved.

The tough-tackling midfielder has sent his agent Alessandro Beltrami, to Roma headquarters at Trigoria, in an attempt to come to a mutually beneficial arrangement in what could become a very complicated discussion.

Firstly, Tuttomercatoweb report that

A

Roma, Nainggolan discuss terms of contract

arry Kane is a true testament to Tottenham’s youth policy and the London-born striker is now repaying the faith shown in him by the White Hart Lane club and could be a handful for Crystal

H

Kane set to cane Palace

Martinez

verton manager Roberto Martinez believes that his players will need to be "perfect" in order to get a result against Manchester City at the weekend.

The Merseyside outfit has lost their last four Premier League games and currently reside just three points above the relegation zone.

"Our performance will have to be perfect," Martinez told reporters.

"City will always take their opportunities. But the way we performed not long ago at the Etihad, we deserved a lot more than what we got.

"I feel we are ready to face a team like City at this point. We are playing at home. We have had four really bad results and we need to put that right. It doesn't matter what the opposition is, we have to look at what we can do."

Second-placed City are currently 25 points above the Toffees.

E

‘Everton need to be perfect against Manchester City'

Sport

Serie A

La Liga Saturday Real Madrid v Espanyol Málaga v Villarreal Celta de Vigo v Valencia Eibar v Getafe Sunday Almería v Sevilla Bilbao v Elche Granada CF v Sociedad Barcelona v Atletico

FIXTURES

t would take big money to lure Sergio Ramos away from Real Madrid, but Premier League suitors have been offered hope in that particular pursuit.

A man widely considered to be the finest centrehalf in world football has admitted to growing increasingly frustrated with life in Spain.

Ramos saw a contentious penalty decision go against him in Wednesday’s Copa del Rey derby date at cross-city rivals Atletico Madrid, which helped the hosts to a 2-0 win.

The World Cup winner was clearly fuming at the final whistle and hinted that he could turn his back on La Liga at some stage in the near future, with the English top-flight holding greater appeal due to its physical nature.

I

Ramos raises hope for EPL clubs

relegation zone and Hummels is keen to explore new avenues.

Dortmund have insisted that the 26-year-old is not for sale, as interest continues to linger from the summer transfer window, when United were tipped to snap him up.

The solid defender has previously been valued at anywhere between £30m and £50m, with both Wenger and Louis van Gaal believing he could solve their clubs’ respective defensive issues.

Hummels

PREMIER LEAGUE

TABLES

nter have rejected the inquiry of La Liga side Sevilla for the services of the Colombian midfielder Freddy Guarin, according to Sport Italia, Inter told Sevilla that Guarin is not for sale since the new Inter Coach Roberto Mancini considers him a vital part of the squad.

Guarin has made 15 appearances in the Nerazzurri shirt thus far this season, putting his name twice on the score sheet.

I

Inter reject Sevilla’s offer for Guarin

Guarin

rsenal manager Arsene Wenger is a big fan of Borussia Dortmund's centre-back Mats Hummels and wants to launch a £35m bid to rival Manchester United’s proposed move, according to reports in the Express.

The German World Cup winner has become a crucial player for the Bundesliga outfit over the last few seasons, but has grown disgruntled at the club’s poor form this season. Dortmund have struggled in the league this term, hovering in and around the

EUROPE TRANSFERS

Global Football Special

Wenger to block Hummels Man Utd move

www.newtelegraphonline.com

NEW TELEGRAPH

28 SATURDA 10 JAN

17 22 17 22 17 18 17 18 17 18 17 17 17 16 17 12 17 9 17 9

PTS 45 34 28 27 27 27 26 24 23 19 19 18 18 17 17 17 15 15

NO TEAM 1 Real Madrid 2 Barcelona 3 Atletico 4 Valencia 5 Sevilla 6 Villarreal 7 Malaga 8 Eibar 9 Celta Vigo 10 Espanyol 11 Rayo 12 A/Bilbao 13 Sociedad 14 Getafe 15 Almeria 16 Deportivo 17 Levante 18 Cordoba 19 Granada 20 Elche

neighbours, and defender Davide Astori knows his side is entering a crucial period of the campaign.

"Now the fun begins, because we have closed the gap on the top of the table," he is quoted as telling Radio Roma.

Lazio are without derby win in Serie A since November 2012, but did beat their arch-rivals in the 2013 Coppa Italia final.

Juve, meanwhile, will be eager to bounce back from their 1-1 home draw against Inter in midweek but face tricky opposition in fourth-placed Napoli.

Rafael Benitez's hosts come into the fixture fresh from back-to-back victories in the league, the latest a 4-1 thrashing of Cesena.

A

Lewis Lewis Hamilton says the tension with his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg disappeared after the Briton won the world drivers' championship ahead of his German rival.

Hamilton's victory at Abu Dhabi in the season finale saw him crowned world champion for the second time as he finished 67 points ahead of Rosberg after their battle for the 2014 title went to the wire.

"All the tension disappears and we have gone back to being two normal individuals, talking about the normal things guys talk about," said Hamilton when asked about relations with his team-mate.

AFTER 11 months in the tennis wilderness Juan Martin Del Potro has finally emerged, saying he is determined to rediscover the form that won him the US Open.

Del Potro landed in Sydney on Thursday night preparing to play in his first tournament since last February.He conceded that retirement had briefly entered his thoughts during his lengthy rehabilitation.

“During the year I had very bad moments, but I was with my parents, with my friends at home, that was the past and now I am in a good place,” Del Potro told The Daily Telegraph.

Reports claim Tiger Woods is considering opening his PGA Tour season at the Waste Management Phoenix Open in late January. The 39-year-old is still on the comeback trail after an injury-plagued 2014 during which he required back surgery and was also hampered by a leg problem.

He played only eight events last year and had to withdraw from two of them but, after rehabilitation and work on his swing, the Florida resident appears ready to return to action.

dam Arm- for his boyhood club. strong is aimAnd the 17-yearing to put his old forward hopes to FA Cup disappoint- be involved against ment behind him – the Premier League by helping Newcastle leaders, beaten 2-1 at United do the double St James’s Park last over Chelsea. month, on Saturday.

A r m “There’s a lot of s t r o n g history at Stamford started last Bridge, but we’ve weekend’s got to keep working third-round hard in training tie at every day and Leicesgo for it,” said t e r the England City.

U n d e r- 1 7 The internaMagtional. pies’ “Chel1 - 0 sea came defeat to St promptJames’s ed an Park and angry we were backlash from the underfans, with caredogs, but taker John Carver I thought having made seven we had changes. our best Armstrong set up game and a wrongly disallowed won 2-1. goal from Remy Cabella with a clever backheel in what was only his fourth start Armstrong

Del Potro

SPORT BRIEFLY

oma could move 12 points clear of arch-rivals Lazio in Serie A with victory in the Derby della Capitale on Sunday.

Rudi Garcia's men currently sit a point adrift of league leaders Juventus, having closed the gap with a 1-0 midweek victory at Udinese.

The Rome derby - one of the fiercest rivalries in European football - highlights this weekend's action and gives Roma a chance to climb above the defending champions - if only briefly ahead of Juve's meeting with Napoli later on Sunday.

Garcia's side will also revel in the chance to put real daylight between themselves and their

R

places when they are visited by sixth placed Villarreal, a side who have not lost a league game since early November.

Valencia will be confident of claiming all three points when they travel to Celta Vigo while surprise team Eibar take on a Getafe outfit that have not tasted success in their last seven league outings.

Levante were last victorious in the league when they beat Valencia 2-1 in November, but will have a good chance to reverse their slide down the table when they host fellow strugglers Deportivo La Coruna on Friday.

Newcastle youngster guns for Chelsea double

The clash could also see Fernando Torres make his first league appearance for Atletico since he left the club in 2007, with the 30-year-old playing 60 minutes in his side's cup fixture midweek.

Real Madrid will be hoping to arrest their current form slump when they take on Espanyol at The Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.

Carlo Ancelotti's side saw their 22game unbeaten run snapped by Valencia in their last league outing before their loss to Atletico, but they will be confident against an Espanyol side who have also lost their last two games and have not

Roma ready for derby, Juve out to defend narrow lead

Totti

Camp Nou tomorrow (Sunday).

An air of uncertainty has surrounded Barcelona recently with reports of backroom unrest compounding rumours that star player Lionel Messi wants to leave the Catalan club.

A loss to Real Sociedad in their last league outing has not helped matters, and Atletico will be full of confidence after seeing off city rivals Real Madrid 2-0 in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.

The two sides have played out five draws in their last six meetings, with Atletico's 1-0 win in the Champions

A

Tiger Woods

ice will benefit from a recent signing with mercurial forward Hatem Ben Arfa in line to debut against Lorient on Saturday following his switch from Newcastle United.

The France international sealed a season-long loan switch to Hull City from Newcastle United at the end of the previous transfer window, after falling out of favour at St James' Park.

However, the 27-year-old made just five Premier League starts under Steve Bruce, who

N

Bundesliga Saturday Mainz v Paderborn Schalke v Hannover Hamburger SV v Köln Freiburg v Frankfurt Stuttgart v Mön’gladbach Leverkusen v Dortmund Sunday Bremen v Hertha Augsburg v Hoffenheim

Premier League Saturday Sunderland v Liverpool Burnley v QPR Chelsea v Newcastle Everton v Man City Leicester v Aston Villa Swansea v West Ham West Brom v Hull C'Palace v Tottenham Sunday Arsenal v Stoke Man Utd v Southampton

Saturday Sassuolo v Udinese Torino v Milan Sunday Inter Milan v Genoa Atalanta v Chievo Cagliari v Cesena Fiorentina v Palermo Roma v Lazio Sampdoria v Empoli

last month declared that he did not know the whereabouts of the player.

Bruce went on to say that Ben Arfa Ben Arfa had played his last game for the club, before full-time employers Newcastle terminated his contract by mutual consent and has since switched to Nice. And the player who made his professional debut against Nice for Lyon will be called upon by his new employers against Lorient today.

PTS 39 38 38 34 33 31 30 23 20 20 20 19 18 17 16 16 15 14 13 11

20 26 20 22 20 21 20 20 20 19 20 19 20 18 20 17 20 17 20 14

P 16 17 17 17 16 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17

La Liga

11 Stoke City 12 Aston Villa 13 Everton 14 Sunderland 15 Hull City 16 QPR 17 West Brom 18 C/Palace 19 Burnley 20 Leicester

Ben Arfa poised for Nice debut

NO TEAM P 1 Bayern 17 2 Wolfsburg 17 3 Leverkusen 17 4 Gladbach 17 5 Schalke 17 6 Augsburg 17 7 Hoffenheim 17 8 Hannover 17 9 E/Frankfurt 17 10 Paderborn 17 11 FC Cologne 17 12 Mainz 17 13 Hertha 17 14 Hamburger 17 15 VfB Stuttgart 17 16 W/Bremen 17 17 Dortmund 17 18 Freiburg 17

Bundesliga

11 Inter 12 Udinese 13 Empoli 14 Torino 15 Verona 16 Chievo 17 Atalanta 18 Cagliari 19 Parma 20 Cesena

Kane

Palace when the two sides clash (Saturday).

Kane is the form forward in the Premier League with five goals in his last five games, including two in the recent 5-3 victory over leaders Chelsea.

Kane had started the season as a regular scorer in the Europa League and since manager Mauricio Pochettino also began selecting him in the Premier League, he hasn’t looked back.

Heading into the London derby against Crystal Palace on Saturday, Kane has scored seven times in 16 Premier League appearances.

His double in the win over Chelsea moved Tottenham up to fifth in the table, which put them one point and one place above north London rivals Arsenal.

Stopping Kane from scoring will not be an easy task for Palace, who have conceded 30 goals in 20 Premier League games.

AY TELEGRAPH NUARY 2015

Sport

29

30

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

'Keshi’s arrogance cost Super Eagles AFCON ticket'

CONTINUED from PAGE 25

all been helpful.

“Above all, the governor of Lagos State, (Babatunde) Fashola, assisted me immensely. He took me to a hospital in Ikoyi in Lagos and afterwards gave me N200,000 for feeding and another N100,000 for treatment, but when the money got finished I suffered a relapse.

“When I had my treatment regularly, went to the physiotherapist’s regularly and was feeding well, I was far better. I used to walk round the house, go even as far as Sokponba Road, Benin City. Now I just sit down here.

“That is why I am appealing to Nigerians who remember SundayEboigbe when he was playing to come to my aid, I will be forever very grateful. God will also help them. I am appealing to the Chairman of the Football Supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, and other football lovers and officials to come to my aid. They all know me. I am going. I am begging them. I am not sure somebody like Nwankwo Kanu even knows I am ill. I was the one who encouraged (Uche) Ejimofor to include him in the Iwuanyanwu Nationale then and not to look at his size. When we came to Lagos to play Stationery Stores, we drew with them 0-0, that was a massive result then and Kanu was the star; it was just after then that he was invited to the Golden Eaglets. You couldn't go to Lagos and play Stores to a standstill that way; the club supporters beat up our players and injured some of them. I was the only one not beaten that day because I was an ex-Stores player.

The supporters only said 'Eboigbe shout up Flaming.' I did and they left me alone.

"I am appealing to everybody, let them not celebrate me at my death, I need help now that I am still alive. I know they can help me.”

Has the government of his state of origin, Edo, been of any help? Although Eboigbe answers in the negative, he however holds brief for the state authorities.

He says: “There has been nothing from the Edo State government. I don’t know if the government is aware of my situation, I have some people working in the government but they didn’t present my case. I am sure (Adams) Oshiomhole is not aware; I won’t deceive you, if he knows, he will do something. I trust him, if he knows that someone like me is seriously ill, he will do something. I served the state and the nation.”

The sombre and near-tear jerking mood however lifted significantly when the conversation turned to football especially his beloved Eagles.

Eboigbe was somewhat transformed from the man who some moments ago was struggling to hold back tears and had to be assisted to wear his shirt by his dutiful wife for a photo shoot, to a lively person.

He became more lively and laughed on occasions when he recalled some of his exploits whether playing for the several clubs that had him on their pay roll or for the national team.

The fear of Eboigbe and his partner in ‘crime’ Bright Omokaro back then was the beginning of wisdom for strikers and he recounts some of the more memorable occasions even though he now struggles to recall fully.

He says: “We were known as hard defenders especially Bright and I. Don’t forget that both of us played for the same club, New Nigeria Bank, the na-

Eboigbe

tional team and Abiola Babes. When I was playing, we the defenders used to tell one another, including (Stephen) Keshi, that if we don’t score, we shouldn’t concede.

“That is very much unlike now when there is no commitment. Then there was no money but there was commitment, but now there is money but no commitment.

Once we had to play Algeria in Enugu and we beat them 2-0, they had this fantastic striker, wonderful player I can’t recall his name now. I told him that he would be out in 10 minutes and he thought I was joking but in less than 10 minutes he was stretchered out.

“That match remains one I will never forget, they had beaten us 1-0 in Algiers and when they came here, I told Keshi, Bright and Yisa Shofoluwe to join the attack and leave me at the back; after that dangerous boy was removed they all joined in the attack, I was the only one who didn’t join in and I defended the back line when they ventured forward. I told them to bring in Nwosu and he scored the second goal for us that day.

“There was also a match in Cote d’Ivoire at the Nations Cup in ’84, I can’t recall the particular team we played, maybe it was Malawi, then I played what was called football and I was rated number three in Africa. If I was not in the defence line, Peter Rufai will not be comfortable, when I report to camp you will see Dodo Mayana happy, jumping up and down. I will come into camp four days to a match but I will still collect my number 15 jersey, no rival.

“There was also a match in Ibadan where when we were trailing 2-0 and everybody was shouting Eboigbe, Eboigbe, bring in Eboigbe. Tunde Disu came to me and said ‘Men get up this is your day’ and immediately I got up the fans were shouting Eboigbe and I said to myself ‘I had already won the fans’ hearts.’ (Segun) Odegbami played for IICC that day. At

I always have pains in my head and my eyes and I can’t afford the medicine; I am just wasting away some point in the match, I intercepted the opponents’ play and launched an attack and (Rashidi) Yekini scored. I launched another attack at another time and Yekini again scored. We defeated them 3-2 that day and that was how I snatched that number 15 shirt for good, no substitution for all the years I was in the national team except if I was injured.

“When we were going to Maroc ’88, I was the first player they mentioned, so if they were going to take just five players, I would have been one of them. That was the esteem in which I was held.”

Interestingly, Eboigbe’s demeanour and mood became downbeat again when the discussion turned to the inability of the Eagles to qualify for the 2015 Nations Cup as defending champions, further underlining his undying love for the team he represented for so many years with distinction.

Although he blames the players’ overconfidence for the failure, he lays more of the blame at the foot of team coach, Keshi.

“The way we believe in God is also the way others believe in God. If God can answer Nigerians I see no reason why the same God can’t answer the prayers of other teams. It is God that made us win the last AFCON in 2013, it is also God that didn’t make us qualify for the 2015 edition,” says Eboigbe.

“Keshi did a lot of things that led to the team’s failure to qualify. We could still have made it after beating Congo 2-0 away; they

had the belief, the confidence they will beat South Africa at home. Keshi should have put aside the fact he had misunderstanding with some players and invite them to camp, the important thing is that they get the result for you.”

The inability of Super Eagles to qualify for Equatorial Guinea has led to calls for Keshi’s sacking and the din still reverberates. Although Eboigbe says he can’t support the sacking option, he however agrees that something has to give.

“I won’t say they should sack him but I know something must happen. The truth is that Keshi doesn’t tolerate any challenge.

Look at someone like Sunday Mba who made us win in 2013, he was not called to the national team afterwards just because of a minor misunderstanding, and you think God will be happy?

“Keshi was always so pompous, the way he called himself the ‘Big Boss’ when we were playing is the way he still carries on even now, but he is not the boss of God. Look at what happened to him now – even at home, we could not pick the ticket- do you think the NFF is happy about that?”

On the dichotomy between pros and home-based players, Eboigbe was unequivocal regarding where his preferences laid.

“Recall that at that time, some pros used to come but the home-based players dominated the team, not the way it is now. It shouldn’t be so. Look at the South African team that came here during the AFCON 2015 qualifiers they had just one pro. They should give the home-based more chance, the pros come into camp for less than a week, how do you expect them to blend and have understanding? he querries.

“We should have more home-based players in the team the way it was in our time. Then it was only Samson Siasia, Etim Esin, Austin Eguavoen and one or two others who will come from Europe to join us. Then Bright and I will say ‘let them come’ and truly we dominated all of them. Chidi Nwanu was a pro in Belgium but he had no place, could he take my shirt or Bright’s or Yisa’s? No way. Of all the defenders then, only Keshi came from Europe and we were defeating teams easily.

The only difference is that there was no money in it then.

“In our time, football had not developed as much as this. When we used to travel for training tours, they will give us $150 after months on tour. That is small money now although the naira had value then. As for those who are playing now, it is their luck but I can tell you that if there was money in football then and I played in the Green Eagles the way I did, I would be a multi-millionaire.”

He also has his opinions on the longrunning issue of a foreign coach, insisting that if a foreigner must be hired for the Super Eagles, then he must be the very best.

“If we want a foreign coach, we must go for the very best, a qualified technical adviser not just anybody. Look at Clemens Westerhof, I played under him, he was good but people like Sebastian Brodericks and others told him to drop some of us, that was how we left the national team. It was Westerhof who used his money to buy boots for me to play. But someone like Manfred Hoener was not a coach. Hoerner destroyed our football.

So if we are thinking of going that route again, we must pick the top coaches,” Eboigbe stresses.

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

31

Szczesny’s girlfriend blamed for goalie’s poor form

A

rsenal’s first choice goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was blasted after his performance against Southampton, and the dip in form has been blamed on his stunning WAG Marina Luczenko…

Arsenal shot-stopper Wojciech Szczesny has come in for some heavy criticism regarding his recent performances, and his poor form is due to the 24-year-old being in love, according to Polish publication Sport Fakt.

The giant Pole is besotted with his gorgeous girlfriend Marina Luczenko, and the press in his home country are blaming her for his dip in form. They claim that he is not 100percent focused on Arsenal, and that his head is elsewhere at important moments.

Marina

Martins orders ‘25 Beard Gang’ shirts from 2shotz

B

usiness seems to be booming for Nigerian rapper, 2shotz (William Iroha) who unveiled his new clothing line, Beard Gang in December 2014.

The rapper has revealed that ex-Super Eagles striker, Obafemi Martins, has just ordered for 25 pieces of the ‘Beard Gang’ T –shirts which costs only N5,000 each.

Although the amount, totalling

N125,000, might not be much, it is expected that Obagoal, as the footballer is fondly known, will pay far more than the retail prize.

2shotz, who partied with the soccer star at the newly opened Club 57 in Ikoyi, Lagos, tweeted: ‘Ok so my homeboy Obafemi Martins just ordered 25 BEARD GANG NATION Tees……….

And we got wasted afterwards.’

Lifestyle

Poor people are those who only work to try to keep an expensive lifestyle and always want more and more.

- Jose Mujica

Martins (right) poses with 2Shots

Mayweather shows off collection of cars, private jet

B

oxer Floyd Mayweather was again up to his old tricks by flaunting his wealth - posing in front of a fleet of luxury cars and a private jet The collection included two different Bugatti Veyrons, a Bugatti Veyron

Grand Sport, two Ferrari 458 Spiders, a Lamborghini Aventador, a Porsche 911 Turbo S and a Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.

The fastest car on show was the Bugatti Veyron, which has a top speed of 267mph. The Bugatti cars are also the

most expensive, coming in at around £1.5m each, while the cheapest is the Porshe 911 – a bargain at £150,000.

The total cost of vehicles on show reaches a staggering £5.55m, and that's before the price of the plane is included.

Alex

Gerrard’s wife can’t wait to show off figure in sunny LA

S Mayweather poses in front of his 'machines'

teven Gerrard looks set to join LA Galaxy when his Liverpool contract expires, and his WAG can’t wait.

You could forgive Alex Gerrard for being excited about her hubby’s proposed move to Los Angeles.

After year’s of suffering in the cold of Liverpool, she’ll finally be able to show off her fabulous figure, while Steven earns his retirement bonus Stories courtesy Dailymail

32

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Investigations

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

33

Another one legged victim PHOTO: www.flickr.com

Leprosy, which attacks skin and the peripheral nerves, is vastly misunderstood

A leprosy victim with an amputated limb PHOTO: POYI.ORG

physically fit. Though, these categories of women have leper parents; that is why it is possible for us to marry within,” Abdullahi said.

A company, Demion, according to Abdullahi, visits the colony every month to donate drugs and to treat them. Yet, when it is assumed that the lepers are free from leprosy, the society’s scorn makes them to recoil. There are those who still undergo treatments, even when the physicians would have assured them that the leprosy cannot resurface again.

Dahiru Mohammad’s story is no different. When this reporter got to his apartment at the colony, Mohammad, who hails from Katsina State and had contracted leprosy at the age of 19, was on the bed sweating and groaning. A fetid smell oozed from his body that was racked by considerable pain. He is married and has two daughters, though, his family lives in Katsina.

“He has been in that position for many years. He is an abandoned inmate. We cannot even trace his family. We talk to him only by using sign language. He is sick of pain and the struggle for existence,” said one of his neighbours at the colony Abdullahi Namadi, a widower, is in that mould too. He has been in the colony for quite a while now. His swollen leg emitted a bad smell too, but he still managed to walk without support.

A dark-complexioned man in his late 40s, Namadi said: “I came to the colony almost three years ago and I have had to do it all by myself. We suffer many things here that make life not worth living anymore. As a leper, I will always need assistance to get around, but I can tell you I have had none. We live in torment everyday.”

Namadi, an uncle to Abdullahi, told this reporter that his children live in Kano. He said in a day he makes between N250 and N300 through begging, but complained of the incessant harass-

ment by the state government officials.

“They do not want us to come out to beg any longer. Perhaps, they want us to just sit back here and wait for death since we can’t do any other thing than begging.

“The officials had arrested me on several occasions and dumped me at Majidun in Ikorodu where 1 spent about 50 days feeding on a half cup of palp with two bean cakes everyday. The same meal was served to all of us with various diseases. Apart from lepers, there were also the blind, crippled people and those with mental problems. Over 300 people died as a result of poor feeding in Majidun and their corpses thrown into the river,” Namadi said, amid tears.

Lepers’ chairman at the colony, Muhammadu Sani Aliu, who doubles as father in-law to Abdullahi, was not short of pathetic story as well. He had leprosy in 1971. He is begging the Lagos State government to stop harassing them.

“Instead, the government should find a way of ameliorating our sufferings in this colony. They should stop treating us like animals; rather, they should treat us like fellow humans that we are. After all, we did not beg for this condition we found ourselves. What befell us could have befallen anybody,” he pleaded.

However, the environment in which they live is pitiable. There is no basic fa-

Badly disfigured legs PHOTO: POYI.ORG

cilities to support life in the settlement, prompting insinuations that they may have been assembled in that location to die.

"We have no borehole here which makes us to use unhygenic water. Looking at this neigbourhood, it's difficult to believe anyone can survive here. But, God has been faithful," said Mohammad.

Yet, efforts by this reporter to get both the local council and the state government to comment on the colony prove futile, as no official was ready to speak on the issue.

Leprosy may seem more like a biblical-era scourge than a modern-day ailment, but today, over 4,000 new cases are detected in Nigeria, according to reports. Experts have also said that around half a million new cases are diagnosed each year worldwide.

The report presented by the Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN) has it that the scourge leads to a grade two disability, in which 12 per cent of children are affected and 10 per cent experience deformities as a result of unawareness.

National Director of the mission, Dr. Sunday Udoh, made this known in Abuja, during a one-day sensitisation workshop on the rights of persons affected by leprosy recently.

Udoh said the ailment was prevalent in all states of the federation and

victims most times face different degrees of discrimination. He noted that the disease was rampant in Zamfara, Kano, Jigawa, Benue and Kebbi states, and warned individuals against stigmatisation of leprosy patients, as they should be treated equally. Despite the recent United Nations' resolution, part of which was to stop discrimination against persons affected by leprosy, Udoh said stigmatisation remained a major concern for victims.

Still, leprosy, which attacks skin and the peripheral nerves, is vastly misunderstood. Some experts believe, for instance, that it is neither contagious, nor does it inevitably lead to a loss of fingers or limbs. Although, doctors are not quite certain how anyone could get the bacterial infection; theories include exposure to armadillos, or airborne bacteria. Yet, if diagnosed early enough, a cocktail of antibiotics, according to medical experts, will wipe it out before the nerve damage that leads to disfigurement occurs.

"Most doctors have only seen it once in medical school," says a doctor, who craved anonymity. "But, it is treatable and curable,” he added.

For those who suffer from the ailment, that appear to be some consolation, but not much. On close examination, this reporter saw patients with bloated faces and deformed hands.

They were said to be people who started treatment too late. There were also kids, whose cases were treated early and were cleared to return to classes but still had to deal with being teenage lepers.

“I saw people staring at my leg,” Ibrahim, a teenage boy from Sokoto State with leprosy, who took to wearing black tights, said. He added, “A few girls, if I touched them accidentally, they would say, 'Oh my God, your leprosy!’”

Yet his real friends did more than support him. They lovingly mocked him. “They’d always call him leper, says John, 16. “In religion class our teacher was dissing lepers, and I said, ‘Hold up; my best friend's a leper.’”

Leprosy, according to medical research and other team of experts, is a chronic disease caused by a bacillus, Mycobacterium leprae. It multiplies very slowly with an incubation period put at five years but takes about 20 years for its symptoms to manifest. It is also said not to be highly infectious but transmitted via droplets, from the nose and mouth, during close and frequent contacts with untreated cases.

For many years, it was considered a mysterious disorder associated with some type of curse, and persons with the disease were isolated and ostracised.

Today, there is effective treatment and the disease can be cured. Yet, untreated CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

34

Investigations

Persons afflicted by leprosy with disabilies photo: southsudanmedicaljournal.com

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Abdullahi helping to prepare the pupils for a public school

'4,000 cases detected yearly in Nigeria' C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 3

Mohammad

A woman severely disabled by leprosy photo:leprosyvoice.worldpraise.com

leprosy can cause progressive and permanent damage to the skin, nerves, limbs and eyes. Early diagnosis and treatment with multidrug therapy (MDT) remain the key elements in eliminating the disease as a public health concern. There is no longer any justification, experts say, for isolating persons with leprosy.

The disease can affect the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes and some of the nerves that are located outside the central nervous system. These are primarily the nerves of the hands, feet, and eyes, and some of the nerves in the skin. In severe, untreated cases, loss of sensation, muscle paralysis of hands and feet, disfigurement, and blindness may occur.

It is traditionally classified into two major types; tuberculoid and lepromatous.

Patients with tuberculoid leprosy have limited disease and relatively few bacteria in the skin and nerves, while lepromatous patients have widespread disease and large numbers of bacteria. Tuberculoid leprosy

There is no longer any justification for isolating persons with leprosy

is further characterised by a few flat or slightly raised skin lesions of various sizes that are typically pale or slightly red, dry, hairless, and numb to touch. While Lepromatous leprosy is at the other end of the spectrum, with a much more generalised disease, diffuse involvement of the skin, thickening of many peripheral nerves, and at times involvement of other organs, such as eyes, nose, testicles, and bone.

There are also intermediate subtypes between these two extremes that are commonly known as borderline leprosy. It refers to a very early form of leprosy that consists of a single skin lesion with slightly diminished sensation to touch. It will usually progress to one of the major types of leprosy. These are borderline tuberculoid, midborderline, and borderline lepromatous leprosy. Borderline leprosy and the subtypes are characterised by more extensive disease than polar tuberculoid, with more numerous skin lesions and more

Treating the complications of leprosy Photo: leprosymission-nig.org

nerve involvement, but not as widespread disease as in lepromatous leprosy.

However, Dr. Haderazz Abdulrazaq said that children, contrary to reports in some quarters, do get infected. He also said that infections in children are used as evidence that the disease is still being transmitted via communities.

“It is not hereditary. Because it is an infectious disease requiring close prolonged contact; it is those close to the patients (usually family members), who get infected and this may make it seem like it runs in a family,” he said.

Abdulrazaq also said that the World Health Organisation (WHO) is stepping up effort at eradicating the scourge.

“WHO has set targets for leprosy elimination and monitors the implementation of its control programmes. The Federal Ministry of Health also has a National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP) that guides policy and co-ordinates the activities to control the three diseases.

“This body is replicated in all the states and the Federal Capital Territory. They work with national guidelines to implement control activities for these diseases.

Clinics are also established and members of staff trained to diagnose and treat cases.

Treatment is available free of charge. Also, campaigns are carried out to further sensitise people in the communities during which they are screened to identify and treated when dictated at its infancy,” Abdulrazaq said.

SATURDAY

Dear Love Doctor, ‘My uncle wants to have sex with me'

p.37

Life Experience

'I reached for my gun after I found pictures of my husband with another woman'

p.36

L ve&Lv ng SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2015

35

'My husband used my mother for rituals' Confession Marriage is meant to be for better, for worse, and both parties are expected to honour and respect each other until death.

However, it is said that the love of money is the root of all evils. In this story, one man commits an abominable crime against his wife and in-laws.

I

Michael Uchebuaku

met Frank, my husband, seven years ago when a friend of mine had organized a birthday party at her residence in Festac. I was single and searching at the time, because my boyfriend had just dumped me for another girl.

I was feeling depressed and therefore, my friend’s invitation to her birthday party came as a relief to me.

I really needed to attend the party so that I could forget my sorrows, have fun and probably meet another guy whom I hoped, would be better than my ex boyfriend.

The few male faces that caught my fancy all seemed to be either married or accompanied by their girlfriends.

So I was still feeling blue about being unable to spot a really single handsome guy when a new group of guests began to arrive.

They seemed to be businessmen from the East. They looked young, rich and handsome. They were three and the tallest one among them appeared to be the most handsome. He walked with a gentle aura and confidence.

One look at him told me that this was the man – the real man – I’d been waiting for all my life. He seemed to be the perfect knight in shining armour for a woman as sensitive and tender as I. Thankfully, he wasn’t accompanied by any lady. I wanted him to toast me so I gave him a wink accompanied by my best smile.

Frank was into the business of exotic car salesin the South-East. He said he regularly traveled overseas to source for newer models of posh cars, and he personally owned a jeep which he had imported from Europe. I told him my Igbo name was Nneka, but I preferred he call me Gladys.

Frank appeared honest with the stories he told me. He wasn’t a pretender and the gentle glow in his eyes made me weak in the knees. He had the kind of eyes that one could call sleepy and sexy, and his eyes turned me on just as his voice sounded like music to my ears.

We kicked it off there and then, and talked as though we’d known each other for years.

We had so much fun together at the party. And when the guests started leaving, Frank offered to take me home in his jeep. He drove gently, just like the way he walked. And we listened to love songs by Kenny Rogers.

We talked about life in general and found that we had many things in common.

When we got to my place that night, Frank walked me up the stairs and stopped at the door. I looked around for my keys and finally found them in the side pocket of my handbag after fumbling with my bag for about two minutes.

As I opened my door, I invited Frank in just to have a look at my place. But he turned down my offer politely, saying that he was in a hurry and would visit me the following day.

So I said goodbye to him. Frank

I saw our family photos, including that of my mum in the centre of the seven red candles

turned and acted as if he was walking away, but I was stunned when he walked back up to me and gave me the sweetest kiss I had ever experienced in my life.

The kiss was so sexy that I almost asked for more. But it ended as abruptly as it had begun, and he said goodnight and promised to visit the following day.

My affair with Frank was like a dream come true. He showered me with love and gifts. His affection appeared genuine and above all, he seemed to have time for me.

One thing I disliked about many men in business was the fact that they didn’t seem to have time for their lovers. But Frank had time for me, and whenever I demanded his presence, he was there.

I’d never liked a relationship where there seemed to be more money than the physical presence of a lover. I hated to be in the shoes of those women who

were showered with money by their lovers, yet spent most nights alone in bed without their lovers being there to keep them warm.

For that reason, I hated distant relationships, no matter the amount of money involved.

I didn’t care too much about money, but wanted a man who would always be there for me in bed on a cold night. Frank was that man, and I loved him all the more for it.

So when he proposed to me five months after we started dating, I didn’t need to think twice before I agreed to marry him. Frank was handsome, kind, gentle, caring, and he had all the time in the world to spend with me. What more could I desire in a husband?

Frank didn’t want me to work after we wedded, so I remained a housewife because he gave me more than enough money I needed.

Somehow, I’d noticed that his car business wasn’t doing as well as he wanted me to believe. But I wasn’t too bothered about it as long as he gave me money.

However, when I gave birth to my third child – a boy – my mother came, according to tradition, to help me look after the baby for the first three months of its life. It wasn’t long after my mother arrived that I started noticing some strange things about Frank, my husband.

Sometimes when I awoke in the middle of the night, I wouldn’t find him on the bed beside me.

I would go round the house looking for him and would finally find him in the guest room wearing a red and black dress and kneeling down, surrounded by seven lighted red candles.

I saw our family photos, including that of my mum in the centre of the seven red candles, and he would be reciting incantations and jerking his head forwards and backwards.

Without letting him notice my presence, I would slowly tiptoe back to our matrimonial bed.

Barely two weeks after I first observed my husband reciting incantations while kneeling in the midst of seven red candles in the guestroom in the middle of the night, my mother died mysteriously. She suddenly fell ill and died on one of those nights my husband spent in the guestroom.

My uncles in the village swore that my mother did not die a natural death, so they consulted a spiritualist who told them that my husband used my mother for money-making rituals.

According to the spiritualist, my husband was in an occult society which demanded that he sacrifice a victim periodically in order to maintain his wealth whenever it starts dwindling.

Now I have moved out of my husband’s house with my three children. I don’t know if am doing the right thing by leaving my husband, but I think I have a responsibility to save the lives of my children and my own life too.

36

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

Love News

Love Songs

‘I waited because I didn't want to settle'

"Drunk In Love" (feat. Jay-Z) [Intro: Beyoncé] I've been drinking, I've been drinking I get filthy when that liquor get into me I've been thinking, I've been thinking Why can't I keep my fingers off it, baby?

I want you, na na Why can't I keep my fingers off it, baby?

I want you, na na

– Cameron Diaz delivers touching toast to husband Benji Madden

C

ameron Diaz and husband Benji Madden wedded at her Beverly Hills mansion recently following a nine-month romance.

MailOnline can exclusively reveal the 42-year-old actress delivered a touching toast to her 35-year-old groom, telling their 127 guests she's happy she held out for Mr. Right.

'I waited because I didn't want to settle,' the Sex Tape star said, flashing her famous mega-watt smile.

'Now I got the best man ever. My special man. He's mine.'

The tattooed musician inspired laughter when he remarked: 'I only asked to be in control of two things: The music and the cake.'

Cameron was no Bridezilla, but she did lose her cool at two separate points during her special day.

When the lights flickered and went out for 10 seconds before her big bridal

entrance, Diaz could be heard cursing: 'S***, f***, this is f***ed up. You've got to be f***ing kidding me!'

Five minutes later, the four-time Golden Globe nominee serenely marched down the aisle to Nat King Cole's Stardust in a sparkly gown with a low-cut back.

And right before the cutting of the cake, the Other Woman star could be heard pleading with Pussycat Dolls' Robin Antin and another gal pal to help her into her short-sleeved reception gown.

The only other hiccup involved the couple's five-year-old ring bearer - Sparrow Madden - the son of his twin brother Joel and Nicole Richie.

'He dropped the ring and it rolled around. The audience began to chuckle,' an insider told MailOnline.

'But as both brothers - groom Benji and best man Joel - got on their hands and knees looking for it, the guests broke out

into full laughter.'

The evening's first surprise performer - three-time Grammy nominee Ryan Adams - serenaded the pair solo on his guitar.

Four-time Grammy winner Lionel Richie (Nicole's adopted father) later performed his 1977 Commodores hit, Easy, on piano.

DJ Patrick Belton mixed the rest of the night's mostly hip-hop playlist - including hits from 2Pac, Rihanna, Warren G, Pharrell Williams, MIA, Bruno Mars, Jessie J, and Cameron's high school bud Snoop Dogg.

Courtesy: Daily Mail.

Life Experience

'I reached for my gun after I found pictures of my husband with another woman' Michael Uchebuaku

M

y name is Ellen and I am a dual citizen of both Nigeria and the United States. This happened in October 2006 in the United States, during my husband's birthday. He went with his "club members" while I went to work because I couldn't take the day off. I didn't mind because I knew he liked hanging with them.

He came home & was acting funny I mean like jumping from one foot to another. I asked what was wrong and he said nothin.

So I was going through his briefcase and cleaning it out when I found a card. I opened it and found three pictures of a naked woman. I was stunned.

When he came home I handed the card and the pictures to him and told him to give them back to whoever he collected them from.

Two months later they were still in his briefcase and when I saw them again, I tore them.

When I asked why he didn’t give them back his reply was that he didn't want to hurt her feelings.

His reply almost made me mad. So I decided to find a way of meeting the woman myself. I later met the woman and told her that I didn’t like the pictures she gave my husband.

She laughed and said that she normally gave nude pictures of herself to every man who was interested in her.

So I politely told her to keep away from my husband or else I would do some damage to her.

My husband told me to get over it because according to him, she

wasn’t going anywhere.

In March 2007 I remember him saying that he had to take the week off from work without pay.

I never knew that even my oldest son knew about this strange woman in my husband's life.

If my oldest son had shown me the picture of my hubby and that woman in bed together, I would have left that day. But he didn't.

In July 2007 I caught the woman calling his cell phone when using someone else's phone and he denied it.

Then he lied to me about an all male party his club was going to have. He said that there would be no woman there and I knew he was lying and told him so. I found pictures of him and that woman again from that party, and she even posted them on Facebook.

I had never felt such a rage take over me before. I grabbed my husband by his throat, slammed him on the floor and started hit-

BEYONCÉ

I grabbed my husband by his throat, slammed him on the floor and started hitting and kicking him

ting and kicking him. Then I did something I never thought I was capable of.

I had a licensed pistol and I reached for my gun. I wanted him dead, period. I stood there reaching for my gun and the look on his face was horrific.

I don’t know who was scared more, him for seeing me so mad or me for letting this man do this to me. I told him I had to leave because if I stayed with him I would kill him. I left my husband for two weeks. No one knew where I went.

When I came back I moved into the guest room. I couldn’t be in the same room with my husband or even look at him. I stayed in that room for about six months. I told my husband that I no longer love him like I used to and probably never will again.

I told him that I can't trust him. He stood there and said he didn’t do anything wrong. I walked away from him not long afterwards and a part of me died.

I sent that woman a message on her Facebook and left a letter on her main page so that everyone could see what kind of a "woman" she was. In the post I placed on her Facebook wall, I made it clear that she was a husband snatcher and I am sure it embarrassed her.

She never responded to my message. If I had ran into her, God only knows what would have happened to her.

The lesson I have learned from this experience is what I tell people: NEVER give your heart completely to anyone. Always keep three quarters (3/4) of it to yourself.

[Verse 1: Beyoncé] Cigars on ice, cigars on ice Feeling like an animal with these cameras all in my grill Flashing lights, flashing lights You got me faded, faded, faded Baby, I want you, na na Can't keep your eyes off my fatty Daddy, I want you, na na Drunk in love, I want you [Hook: Beyoncé] We woke up in the kitchen saying, "How the hell did this shit happen?"

Oh baby, drunk in love we be all night Last thing I remember is our beautiful bodies grinding up in the club Drunk in love [Bridge: Beyoncé] We be all night, love, love We be all night, love, love [Verse 2: Beyoncé] We be all night, And everything alright No complaints from my body, so fluorescent under these lights Boy, I'm drinking, Park it in my lot 7-11 I'm rubbing on it, rub-rubbing, if you scared, call that reverend Boy, I'm drinking, get my brain right Armand de brignac, gangster wife Louie sheets, he sweat it out like wash rags he wear it out

Love Poem

Devilman

Breathe Me Breathe me with your deepest eyes So you'll feel what's inside my heart, So you'll see there are no lies, So you'll know I loved you from the start.

Breathe me with your sweetest smile As your smile can cheer a thousand souls, As your smile renders me senseless like a child, As your smile keeps me smiling a thousandfold.

Breathe me with your caring touch For without it, my wounds would never heal.

For without it, my pain would hurt too much.

For without it, I would never again learn to feel.

Breathe me with your gentle kiss To taste the conviction of my love for you, To taste the joy of my soul in bliss, To keep me there inside of you.

*Send your love poems along with your name and number to ireto007@yahoo.com

Romantic Joke

The woman in the airplane

As an airplane is about to crash, a female passenger jumps up frantically and announces, "If I'm going to die, I want to die feeling like a woman."

She removes all her clothing and asks, "Is there someone on this plane who is man enough to make me feel like a woman?"

A man stands up, removes his shirt and says, "Here, iron this!".

10 JANUARY 2015

Relationships & Love Advice

‘My uncle wants to have sex with me' Dear Love Doctor, My name is Tope. I have this distant relation and it's like we are attracted to each other. Now he is talking about making love to me, even though we've kissed. I can't accede to his request, but I don't know what to do. Please advise me.

From Tope.

Love Doctor’s Advice: Dear Tope, You say he is a distant uncle, but you didn't say how distantly you relate with him. Therefore, one may not be able to correctly assess the position of your blood

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

relationship with him. In some cultures, you may or may not be allowed to marry. It depends on your culture & on the way both of you are related. The best thing to do is to discuss it with your parents. Ask them whether your culture permits or forbids your having a relationship with him. Their answer will tell you which way to go. *Send your comments/stories to Love Doctor. E-mail: ireto007@yahoo. com. For free marriage/relationships counseling, call Love Doctor Mike 07031028714, 08131161840. Visit lovedrmike.blogspot.com

Blackberry Connection

H♥♥K UP...find your heart’s desire Women SEEKING relationship/ marriage ♥ Favour, 40, Igbo, in Asaba, a graduate looking for job, needs a slim man of 40-50 years, preferably a civil servant, widower or divorcee based in Delta, Rivers or Bayelsa state only. 08125106352. ♥ Divine wants a loving, working or business, widower (not a divorcee) of 35 years for marriage. He must be a graduate, tall, and a sincere pentecostal christian man. 08169279907. ♥ Bola, 28, pretty, romantic and good looking, needs a graduate, reliable & working man for marriage. 08037604915. ♥ Grace, 35, chocolate, 6ft tall, single mother of one, needs a loving and caring man from 50 years and above for a serious courtship.

08098957792. ♥ Becky, 31, chocolate, 5.7ft, public servant, HIV positive, needs a loving and caring responsible man of 38-40 years for marriage. 07012444576.

MEN LOOKING FOR RELATIONSHIP/ MARRIAGE

Omolola, 34, single mother, wants a man of 35-45 years, preferably a Yoruba man. BB pin: 2A9E3EAA. 09033643433.

♥ Ade, 34, Christian, Yoruba, working in the banking sector, desires a beautiful and working class lady between 25 to 31 years for marriage.

She must be serious minded, mature and willing to settle down. 09050735557. ♥ Chidera, 40, from Ebonyi, in PH, civil servant, needs a very busty lady of 23-31 years for marriage. 08037317375. ♥ Edwin, 37, a writer/businessman, needs a fresh graduate lady with vision, from the Southern or Northern part of the country.

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• Connect with Mike on WhatsApp or BlackBerry Pin: 7ab29e22 or 21978F71 for details on how to send your BlackBerry or Smartphone Connect request.

♥ Kennedy, 6ft, businessman, needs a godly working of 30-45 years for marriage.

08105266854, 08021495049. ♥ A life and relationship coach needs a kindhearted or generous person in any part of the country to invest in his ministry. 07032944123, 08023700641. ♥ Precious, 28, a young medic, needs a woman within 35- 48 year who wants to explore real romance but she should be ready to assist him financially. +234 8126650955.

Lovers’ Answers Game: The rule: Ask the opposite sex one question about love, and choose your lover from the top 3 answers.

A girl via 07031139789, is asking all men:

A

Odd News

fter going through the menopause aged 20, Allison Noyce was told she could never have children naturally.

So when she went to the doctor with stomach pains 15 years later, she was astonished to learn that she was pregnant – and the baby was due within days.

The 36-year-old was afraid she had cancer when she felt pain and found a lump in her stomach.

Instead, medics told her she was eight months pregnant, and just 12 days later she gave birth to daughter Sophie, who weighed 6lb 4oz.

Mrs Noyce said: ‘Sophie is truly a miracle. We simply couldn’t believe it when doctors said I was not only pregnant – but so close to delivery.’

The fitness instructor became alarmed when she felt unusually tired after one 40-mile bike ride.

She said: ‘Around the same time I noticed pains in my tummy, and over the past few weeks, I had thought I could feel a lump. Terrified, I booked an appointment with my GP.’ Her doctor believed the lump was ‘probably a large cyst’ and quickly sent Mrs Noyce to hospital for tests.

She was sure pregnancy was not a possibility because at the age of 30, after marrying her husband Richard, she had gone back to the doctor’s to double check that she would never

"Why do some men prefer to date a married woman even while she is still living with her husband?"

conceive naturally.

She recalled: ‘Richard and I were worried it was something serious.

So we were overcome with emotion when the woman doing an ultrasound said I was eight months pregnant. Relief that it wasn’t cancer and sheer joy that we were having a baby.

‘We were also in shock – when a midwife arrived to discuss birthing arrangements I thought I was dreaming.

‘In hindsight I’d had other signs, but put morning sickness down to a virus and tiredness down to being busy.’

Mrs Noyce was told she would never have children naturally after going through menopause in her twenties.

Most women experience the menopause – a natural change in the body’s sex hormones – between 45 and 55.

In rare cases, some women experience menopause before they reach 40, often for no known cause. This premature ovarian failure affects about one in 100 women before 40, and five in 100 by 45.

Mrs Noyce said: ‘I only had scanty periods in my teens and they stopped completely when I was 20. But it was

• Call Mike on 07031028714, 08131161840 to link up and for direct hookup.

*Call Mike: 07031028714 to send questions or issues.

Woman who went through menopause at 20 has baby

SOLUTIONS TO CROSSWORD PUZZLE E X P X

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Courtesy: Daily Mail.

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ACROSS 1. EXPIATE 5. WET 7. NOA 8. TOE 9. IBA DOWN 1. EXTINCT 2. PREACH 3. ADIT 4. ENAMEL 5. WAKU 6. TOD

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still terrible to be told so young that I’d never have a family.

Sophie is now 16 months old and the Noyces still can’t believe she’s here.

Mrs Noyce explained: ‘Doctors have no idea why so many years after going through the menopause I suddenly conceived. Since her birth I still haven’t had a period, so while we’d love another baby, it might be she is our only child.

‘We are just enjoying our precious daughter – she is the miracle baby we never thought we’d have. We look at her and feel incredibly lucky.’

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A C C O U N T 10. MAUL 11. NICE 12. BE 16. AD 17. DAAR

18. BOOK 22. AIL 23. ALB 24. OAR 25. INN 26. ACCOUNT

13. ACROBAT 14. SAKARA 15. MALABU 19. OKON 20. BLOC 21. TRI

38

Love&Living

True Story

T

he entire family was ecstatic with the announcement of my sister Erica's engagement to her long-term boyfriend Nick. It was even more exciting as our grandma had just moved back to the family home, which meant she could attend the wedding.

Nick's family was equally supportive of the union with Nick's mother giving him a family heirloom — a glittering yellow diamond ring — for the engagement.

Erica became extremely busy with all of the wedding preparations, so I offered to run some errands for her. One of my tasks was to take her engagement ring in to the jewellers to have it cleaned. My hesitation at taking responsibility for such an expensive item quickly dissipated when I saw how stressed poor Erica was.

Carefully, I placed it in my handbag. But when I went to retrieve it for the jeweller, it was gone. I frantically scoured my bag, even emptying it all over the counter and I couldn't find the ring for the life of me!

I ran out of the store in a hysterical panic drove to my apartment and turned it upside down without any luck. In desperation I went in to my work and scoured very inch of my desk, even pulling my desk drawers out and peering into the empty cabinet.

I slumped down in my work chair completely defeated. I had well and truly lost it. The best explanation I could muster was that it probably fell from my handbag when I was retrieving my keys from the same pocket.

I burst into tears at the realisation that I had to confess to Erica what had happened.

That evening, I went to Erica's house for dinner. The

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

‘I lost my sister's engagement ring'

whole way there, I rehearsed different ways of breaking it to her. When I arrived, I found Grandma sitting quietly at the kitchen table.

My grandma's health had been deteriorating the last few months and she was becoming increasingly confused and forgetful. Grandma had developed a habit of misplacing things like putting her purse in the fridge or her phone in a pot plant.

Although she didn't speak much English and was disoriented most of the time, I always enjoyed Grandma's company. We shared nice meal while Erica frantically darted around the house chatting excitedly about roses and seating arrangements.

My guilt was eating me up

Wedding Traditions

The Chair Dance: Israel

N

o Jewish wedding is complete without the Hora, or chair dance. In this tradition, a few strong and brave guests hoist the bride and groom high above the crowd on chairs to the infectious sounds of "Hava Nagila". Friends and family dance around in an ecstatic circle as the elevated couple tries not to look (or fall) down.

Courtesy: Knot.

It took almost an hour before I blurted out, "Look, Erica, I've lost your ring"

— I had to say something. It took almost an hour before I blurted out, "Look, Erica, I've lost your ring".

Erica went pale and stared at Grandma, then at me.

"Poor thing," she finally sighed, placing her hand on Grandma's shoulder. "I guess we better start looking for it," she smiled weakly.

Erica must have assumed I took the ring out at dinner to return to her and while my back was turned, Grandma hid it. In a split second, I decided to play along with her assumption and even spent the next two hours searching her house in vain for the missing ring.

Fortunately, when Erica broke the news to Nick he was very understanding.

Nick even arranged an exact copy to be made to replace the missing ring, in part for Erica but mostly to avoid confessing to his mother what happened to her priceless heirloom.

I am not proud of my dishonesty, especially when Erica tells me that she is convinced that the ring will turn up in her house one day. Although when she looked at Grandma that day in the kitchen and sighed "I guess these things just happen", I felt I made the right decision... because if she knew I was the one who lost it, I'm sure she we would be singing a different tune!

Your say: Did she do the right thing? Tell us.

Courtesy: nine.com

SEXUAL COMMUNICATION

How to make foreplay fun for both of you 1. Involve Him in Foreplay by Touching Him, Too Foreplay doesn’t have to just be for you; it can and should also involve you touching him, too.

Make foreplay work for both of you by getting his engines running, too! Touch him everywhere, not JUST in his genitals. Tease him a bit. And then ask him to show you just how he likes to be touched or stroked. Men tend to like things with a firmer hand than women do, which is why we’re often too soft when we touch the guys, and they’re often too rough with us. Just ask him to guide your hand.

2. Don't "Lie There” During Foreplay It’s often the fact that we’re lying on our backs that can make it seem like we should be rushing.

But there’s no reason that you both have to lie that way. In fact, there’s no reason why you have to be in any one position for extended periods of time during foreplay. He could sit up, for instance, and then you could sit against him, so you’re both facing the same direction. Then he can still reach around and stimulate various parts of your body, but it psychologically feels different. Many women find this a little more comfortable, too, because he isn’t looking directly at your face.

3. Rub His Body He’ll enjoy this one: if you need to be stimulated a certain way, stimulate yourself. But not with your hand. Use his body instead. Find a way to grind against his leg, or even against his penis without him entering you, that feels delicious. This requires a lot of moving on your part, which is what he’ll really enjoy. It makes it seem as if you are eager for his body and as if you are really enjoying it, which will excite him, too. And if you keep changing positions to get an even better angle, then he’s going to get stimulated, too.

To be continued next week.

Love Education

What is betrothal?

B etrothal (also called espousal) is a formal state of engagement to be married.

In Jewish weddings during Talmudic times (c.1st century BC - 6th century AD), the two ceremonies of betrothal (erusin) and wedding usually took place up to a year apart; the bride lived with her parents until the actual marriage ceremony (nissuin), which would take place in a room or tent that the groom had set up for her. Since the Middle Ages the two ceremonies have taken place as a combined ceremony performed in public. The betrothal is now generally part of the Jewish wedding ceremony, accomplished when the groom gives the bride the ring or another object of at least nominal value. As mentioned above, betrothal in Judaism is separate from engagement; breaking a betrothal requires a formal divorce, and violation of betrothal is considered adultery.

Typical steps of a match were the following: • Negotiation of a match, usually done by

the couple's families with bride and groom having varying levels of input, from no input, to veto power, to a fuller voice in the selection of marriage partner. o This is not as widely practiced as it was historically, although it is still common in culturally conservative communities in Israel, India, Africa, and Persian Gulf countries, although most of these have a requirement that the bride be at least allowed veto power.

• Negotiation of bride price or dowry o In most cultures evolved from Europe, the modern practice has reduced bride prices or dowries to the engagement ring accompanying the marriage contract Judaism, while in other cultures (such as those on the Arabian Peninsula), these are still part of negotiating a marriage contract.

• Blessing by the parents and clergy • Exchange of Vows and Signing of Contracts. Often one of these is omitted. Celebration comes next.

Source: Wikipedia.

SATURDAY

Travel &Tourism SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2015

Chef's Corner Ken Hom: I know what makes a great restaurant p.40

Travel Personality Wonuola Olatunde-Lamide: Travel is profitable but you need to be passionate p.41

Destination

Take in Abuja's sights and sounds aboard a city tour bus p.42

HOSPITALITY

Meros Villa: Home of style, comfort Apart from its classy facilities, ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA writes that Meros Villa assures guests of homely feel without putting a hole in their pockets.

Mero Villa's facade.

Inset: Bello, one of the bedrooms

M

eros Villa located in Omole Phase 1, Ikeja, Lagos, is an apartment hotel like no other as it offers more than comfort. It comes with its own attractions and inviting aura. The facade is more than a pleasant one but a study in architectural masterpieces. It is stylishly designed and exudes effective use of spatial environment.

According to the Meros Group general manager, Mr. Olawale Bello, Meros Villa enjoys a homely concept as it is designed to offer an upscale and comforting homely feel for the guests.

He describes it as a perfect service apartment. “We want to give people the comfort of their homes away from home in a very secured and beautiful environment in order for them to have a new experience in a more relaxing and serene environment,” he says.

While on a guided tour, he informs that the facilities are well apportioned and of a standard quality in line with international best practices. The apartment is of international standard and panders to the need of the highbrow and those seeking more than a hunting ground and the usual hotel environment. It is plush and picture fit scenery where they can have an exciting moment away from the preening eyes.

Hence the villa’s adopted catch phrase is ‘... your sweet home away from home, available for short let apartment.’ He outlines the villa to be suitable for

holiday seekers, newly-wedded couples, families, corporate bodies, and for temporary stay as well as those seeking for a change of environment among others.

Facilities Meros Villa offers 12 units of two bedrooms fully serviced apartments with bedrooms ensuite and furnished to taste. A lot of privacy is enjoyed by the occupants as there is a guest toilet and each apartment enjoys certain artistic feel, colour scheme and inviting interior deco with each bearing specific name such as emerald, quartz, opal, diamond, onyx and ruby.

Each of the living rooms comes with a dining set and the bedrooms are breezy and spacious and have a kitchenette that is fully equipped with storage facility as the guests are allowed to prepare their meals.

But complementing the kitchenette is a posh restaurant which offers African and continental dishes and operates for 24 hours. There is also a bar, which is fully stocked with different vintage wines, champagnes and beverages.

According to Bello, the villa’s management is poised to cater

to the needs of the guests as its operations are flexible in order to accommodate their daily requests. But he informs that the villa, which hosts a number of high profile guests ranging from corporate bodies, government officials and individuals, is quite selective when admitting guests as thorough checks are carried out to ensure that the right guests are admitted because of the need to maintain its private ambience.

Other facilities include a swimming pool with a pool bar and sit out areas, which comes with a garden – like feel for the guests to relax, enjoy a good swim and cocktail while there is an in-door gymnasium that is fully equipped for the use of the guests. Its doors are opened 24 hours to accommodate the schedules of its guests.

Also, there is a well-furnished conference room with capacity for 100 persons and is devoted to hosting of different events ranging from retreats, seminars, training sessions, and workshops to some private social events such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries and corporate meetings by corporate bodies.

NEW TELEGRAPH PARTNER HOTELS

FESTAC, LAGOS

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

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ABA LAGOS

ABA

According to Bello, none of these conference meetings or social events is allowed to erode or impinge on the serenity of the apartment and the privacy of the guests. He observes that many of the guests used the villa as a resting place and as such, the villa’s management is always very careful in ensuring that the quiet and inviting appeal of the villa is maintained.

Other services include Laundry, airport pick up and drop off for its guests, dropping and picking up of guests from their offices, free Wi-Fi service while on the leisure side.

The villa often provides some tailor made leisure packages for the guests during festive periods.

Unique features Meros Villa sure have many inviting features but some of the obvious ones include its private and serene nature, secured environment and 24 hours power supply as the villa is serviced by three generators. The high quality facility is a plus, a factor, which Bello attributes to the fact that most of the facilities are imported and that the villa has a unique maintenance culture where no effort is spared at ensuring that the facilities are updated and operate maximally.

The fact of its location is also very appealing, as it is located in Ikeja -the business district of Lagos with access to any part of the city very easy, especially to the airport, Island and Alausa, the seat of government. Also, its services are professional delivered with personalised touch as the villa, Bello says, is manned by welltrained and qualified personnel in all its departments.

B E N E F I TS There are lots of benefits to derive as one of our partner hotels. For enquiries and details on how to join the programme, please contact Andrew Iro Okungbowa: 08023152195 (sms only), e-mail: iroandy@ymail.com or Chinyere Opara: 08063768131 (sms only) e-mail angela_curtis-2@live.com

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Travel & Tourism

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10 JANUARY 2015

CHEF'S CORNER

Ken Hom: I know what makes a great restaurant Ken Hom, an American–born Chinese, is one of the world’s acclaimed chefs reputed for introducing Chinese cuisine to Britain in the 1980s with his largely successful BBC series, Ken Hom’s Chinese Cookery. With over 20 cookery books to his name and an OBE award in 2009, he speaks on the best Chinese restaurants in London, where to find the finest Asian food around the world and his five top pick of Chinese cooking ingredients.

On five favourites places to eat Asian food in the world 1. Yan Toh Heen in Hong Kong is one of my top favourites. It is one of most classic and innovative of Cantonese restaurants and I am always surprised by its creativity. The menu and dishes change constantly.

It is truly cooking fit for kings.

2. Din Tai Fung in Taipei has the best and the world's tastiest xiao long bao: that famous pork dumpling with soup which is made from the juices and stock jelly. The dumplings are very firm but elastic at the same time and holding the liquid without breaking or cracking. In my opinion it is heaven on earth.

3. The Sugar Palm Restaurant and Bar in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The atmosphere is tropical and friendly but it is the food that makes it worth the trip. Delicious and fragrant home cooked food infused with love.

When I dined there, the restaurant was packed out with a friendly tropical atmosphere.

4. Jok's Kitchen in Bangkok. Located in Chinatown, there is only one table and Jok, the chef, cooks whatever he likes and it is out of this world.

5. MEE in Rio de Janeiro, my restaurant serving pan-Asian cuisine. I know what makes a great restaurant and MEE is definitely up to the standards of all of the restaurants I have mentioned.

Chinatown because they're everywhere.

On what excites him about food now Ingredients. Their availability and freshness. And especially organic things like free range chicken. You can get fantastic ingredients which weren't so available before which mean you can make super-good simple food."

On possibility of ending up with regional Chinese restaurants in the

same way there are Indian ones It's already happening. Last weekend I read about (Schezuan restaurant) Gourmet San. There are no Eastern, Fukien or Shanghai restaurants yet, but I think they're all coming. In the late Eighties I travelled through China eating a thousand new dishes and that was just the tip of the iceberg, there's a lot to be discovered.

Culled from www.hellomagazine.com

His top pick of Chinese restaurants in London Wong in Victoria - my top favourite, then it is Kai in Mayfair, Royal China in Queensway and The Good Earth in Knightsbridge.

On why he returns to London every Chinese New Year For the simple reason that it has some of the best Chinese food in Europe.

His five top ingredients in Chinese cooking Garlic, ginger, chilli, spring onion and five spice powder.

On Thailand, his adopted abode, where food is very much part of the culture…

Places like Thailand and China have a very strong food culture. Over here it’s different. People don't commune with food in the same way, it's not focus of their lives. The middle classes are interested, but most working class people eat on the run. They don't gather round the table to eat and eating's not the focus of their social life.

Changes in food culture in the last 25 years The availability of ingredients is so much greater. You don't have to go to

Hom

Crispy aromatic duck

I

s one of the popular recipes created by Ken Hom and is one of the best selling dishes in Chinese restaurants in the West.

Ingredients 1 x 2.75kg (6lb) duck, fresh or frozen, preferably CherryValley 6 slices of fresh root ginger, 7.5cm x 5mm (3 x ¼in) 6 spring onions, cut into 7.5cm (3in) lengths cornflour, plain flour or potato flour for dusting 1.2 litres (2 pints) groundnut oil for the spice rub 2 tbsp five-spice powder 65g (2½ oz) Sichuan peppercorns 25g (1oz) whole black peppercorns 3 tbsp cumin seeds 200g (7oz) rock salt to serve Chinese Pancakes (see page 203) 6 spring onions, finely shredded hoisin sauce.

Preparation: Step One If the duck is frozen, thaw it thoroughly. Rinse well and blot it completely dry with kitchen paper.

Mix all the ingredients for the spice rub together in a small bowl, then rub the duck inside and out with this mixture, applying it evenly.Wrap well in clingfilm and place in the fridge for 24 hours.

Step Two After this time, brush any excess spices from the duck. Stuff the ginger and spring onions into the cavity and put the duck on a heatproof plate. Set up a steamer or put a rack into a wok. Fill it with 5cm (2in) of water and bring to the boil. Lower the duck and plate into the steamer and cover tightly. Steam gently for 2 hours, pouring off excess fat from time to time. Add more water as necessary. Remove the duck from the steamer and pour off all the liquid. Discard the ginger and spring onions. Leave the duck in a cool place for 2 hours or until it has dried and cooled. At this point the duck can be refrigerated.

Step Three Just before you are ready to serve it, cut the duck into quarters and dust with corn flour, plain flour or potato flour, shaking off the excess.

Step Four Heat the oil in a wok or deep-fat fryer. When it is almost smoking, deep-fry the duck quarters in 2 batches. Fry the breasts for about 8–10 minutes and the thighs and legs for about 12–15 minutes, until each quarter is crisp and heated right through.

Drain the duck on kitchen paper and leave until cool enough to handle. Then remove the meat from the bones and shred it.You can do this easily with a fork.

The Chinese eat it with bones and all. Serve with the Chinese Pancakes, spring onions and hoisin sauce.

Tour Packages Mayaewo Tours begins 2015 with cruise tours

Diamonds and Pearls Travels Limited Offers Dubai Shopping Festival

Mayaewo Tours Limited Lagos is starting the first quarter of the year with enticing tour packages for corporate bodies and individual leisure seekers.

In the offing for February are Conference /Mediteranean Cruise USA and Conference and Tour South Africa while April debuts with Ester European tour of Italy and France.

Diamonds and Pearls Travels Limited debut for the year is a packaged tour on Dubai Shopping Festival. The all inconclusive package has options for four and five star hotel, economy class return ticket, daily breakfast, return airport transfer and UAE visa among others. The shopping festival holds between February 19 and 25.

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Wonuola Olatunde-Lamide

Travel is profitable but you need to be passionate Mrs. Wonuola Olatunde-Lamide, is the managing partner of Diamonds and Pearls Travels Limited, operators of www.250ktravel.com and www.travelhub.com platforms, which are dedicated to promoting travel packages. Wonuola, who does the business alongside her husband, Mr. David Olatunde Lamide, speaks with ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA on their dream to take travel to a new height.

G The seed

rowth of Diamonds and Pearls Travels Limited is like that of a mustard seed. The travel management company (TMC), is rapidly making a name for itself, treading the path others have not, by its unique and bold moves in just a little over four years of its existence.

It was a home groom company, which started with just a laptop and phone but powered by a young lady of vision and foresight who dared to dream and decided to birth her passion by jettisoning a well-paying job for a hazardous and uncertain path by allowing her uncouth passion to lead her unto uncharted and dark path. But four years down the line, fortune has smiled on her to the extent that her company is now the envy of many and a case study by the FATE Foundation.

Mrs. Wonuola Olatunde-Lamide, a graduate of History and International Studies from the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, started out some years ago with Unique Trade and Venture Concept, the representative of Visage Communications, which is the organiser of the Best of Nigeria Expo in London.

“That was how the flair for travel and visa processing actually started because I used to assist delegates in processing their visas and handle their travel arrangements among other things. That was basically what I used to do,” she recounts.

But somewhere along the line, she got so excited with the job and then came the dream of launching out on own her.

With the active support and guidance of her husband, Mr. David Olatunde-Lamide - a graduate of Physics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife (OAU), who then worked with Etisalat and previously Airtel but later resigned to join the wife in running the company.

“After I left there I started Diamonds and Pearls Travels Limited with my husband. We basically started with visa processing and packaging international delegates to attend exhibitions because I already knew how to process visas, so I just easily flow with that and it was from there that people started asking about air tickets, hotel book-

TRAVEL PERSONALITY ings and all that.

“Another thing is that when we started, we started with just a phone line, an internet and a laptop from our house. Then my husband said, "why don’t you have a website so that we could have more visibility, so that people can go to our website and see what we do,” she reveals of the move to get a foot hood in the market place.

But it just didn’t end there as her husband kept pushing his wife and opening her eyes to new horizon: “Let's not just do exhibition or flight tickets or hotels but let us design packages (tour packages), an allinclusive offers with hotels, flights, tickets, tours and transfers and people can actually go to the website and do their bookings and see what we offer them with pictures and we also started sending out newsletters and emails,” she adds.

The vision “That was how we started building the company,” she says, even as she informs that “the main vision then was to be a company that helps business people attend exhibitions, seminars and networking.

That was actually our main vision and the plan was that in the future we will even organise exhibitions worldwide, but based on clients’ requests, we shifted more towards leisure travels.”

Then the husband interjects, “basically at the time it was to help businesses because we had people who are into one business or the other but they don’t know the companies abroad to talk to and they also don’t know how to package themselves in such a way that they would look acceptable to a foreign partner or to an embassy.

“That was what we started with and we found that people wanted much more and that is how we just started with the company,” adds the husband.

Challenges ‘‘Pricing was the biggest challenge, we were seriously hampered by this. It was the most salient teething problem that we had

Mr. and Mrs. Olatunde Lamide

You just need to start small, start with what you have but you just need to be diligent about it and passionate about it

Mrs. Olatunde-Lamide

because we couldn’t compete with the prices because we buy our products and packages from people,’’ says Olatunde Lamide, as he shares his views on the path to success by the company. ‘‘Another thing, which we discovered later is that you need to understand how the business works because we were new to the business we didn’t understand how it works that much.

We had a basic idea but we really didn’t have a deeper understanding like the kind of understanding that we have now,’’ reveals Olatunde Lamide.

Then comes in Mrs. Olatunde – Lamide, ‘‘some of our challenges included cost, earning clients trust and getting trust worthy staff because what we do is quite unique in the sense that we have to be very careful with what we give to the clients. So you have to have staff whose judgement can be trusted.

“But people have to understand that you have to start from somewhere, that way when you get to the top you appreciate where you are coming from and you will know that your success has been of God and not of your own hand,” she adds.

Running a successful travel business requires passion For the wife, running a travel business is interesting but at the same time demanding requiring all of your personality: “It is very interesting but at first it was challenging and I realised that when you do something that you are passionate about you don’t really see the challenges. Yes, we have been able to build the clientele because we get new clients everyday and we also think of new ways of marketing our products and services, letting people know our brands.

“I think that is really the stage that we are concentrating on now, how do we offer more competitive rates, more competitive prices, better services and more personalised services?”

Our products She also speaks on their travel products: “Diamonds and Pearls Travels Limited is the parent company and is a full service company

and under it we have two brands and two websites -Travelhub is a self -service site where you can get low rates based on your budget while 250ktravel is a site where you have already designed packages.

We have eight destinations -Zanzibar, Abu Dhabi, Accra, Dubai, Nairobi, Dar es Salam, Banjul and Johannesburg. The packages are not more than 250k but it could be less and it is for a single person.

“So you can actually go on the website and book your flights, book your hotels, book your tours, your transfers and you can also book your package yourself and you don’t need to call us. It is selfexplanatory. Because everyone is going online and the rates are becoming more competitive, we have to make clients own their travels, design it themselves even before they travel.”

It’s very profitable business but...

“It is very profitable if you are passionate, which means if a client calls you by 2am you will get up and attend to the client. Once clients see your passion, it will draw more people to you because they know that this person does not just only understands what he or she is doing but loves it,” she admits.

Besides, she speaks of integrity as very crucial to one’s success in the business, “people must be able to trust you. People are entrusting you with their travels, with their monies, they must be able to believe that when you tell them that you are giving them a five-star hotel when they get to their destination it should truly be a five-star hotel and not that you tell them you are giving them a three-star hotel and when they get there it is a cockroach infected hotel.

“So, the business is very profitable if you can get good deals and provide clients with the basic,” she reveals.

The future “By the grace of God in the future, we just don’t want to be a travel company, a middleman but we also want to be suppliers, owners of travel products. We believe that we can get to that level being diligent and passionate about what we do,” she says.

42 Travel & Tourism

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Take in Abuja's sights and

DESTINATION KENNETH TYOHEMBA embarked on a tour of Abuja in one of the Federal Capital Territory's Sightseeing Tour Buses launched recently and relives the exciting experience.

S

Prologue eated quietly and calmly in one end of the Abuja City Sightseeing Tour Bus this Saturday afternoon, one heaved a sigh of relief and looked forward to the trip with expectation. One could feel the excitement in the air and looking into the faces of some of the passengers on the tour bus, you could see that the day held something significant and promising for them just like it did for one.

It was a trip one had longed for and finally having the opportunity to be among the excited tourists was something of joy and celebration. At least the images of city tour buses of London and other European countries that one sees on the TV or movies was now a reality in Abuja and here one was seated to savour exploratory tour of the city, thus bringing to reality the once distant dream and images on the TV screen.

Since the introduction of the Abuja City Sightseeing Tour Bus project courtesy of a partnership between ABC Transport Plc which since coming onto the scene about two decades ago has transformed the face of transport service across the country and even extending to the West Africa coast - and the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation in charge of tourism development, promotion and marketing alongside the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), which is playing some role to have a seamless operation, one had longed to share in the experience, especially watching the bus commute through one’s route sometime.

This would not be the first time that Abuja is attracting such services, as some years ago, the former director-general of NTDC, Segun Runsewe, introduced same service to the city and it came with all the glamour, as it was the first time the city or any city in the country was having such a dedicated city tour. It was well received but somehow, the operation did not quite make the right impression and over the years suffered a stillbirth and went quietly out of operation.

For the second time again in its history, the city is witnessing another introduction of city tour services. This has also come with its attractions and all the glitz expected, as it was formally launched some months ago at a ceremony attended by key government agencies, including the NTDC, FCTA and operators of the tour bus services. Abuja residents and visitors to the city are waiting with bated breath to see how far this service can go this time. The experience turned out to be quite exciting, fulfilling and memorable.

The city sightseeing bus at one of the stops

scenery to boot. It's just as well that the mall hosts Shoprite and other outlets, because while waiting to board people use the interval to purchase snacks, drinks and other personal items needed for the city tour as no refreshment is provided on board except at some stops where tourists have the opportunity to buy some snacks and drinks.

The cost for a round trip is N2, 290 for adult while for children it is N1, 950.

Abuja city gate

Ticketing The city tour bus services are operated on weekends and during public holidays and festive periods.

Tickets for the services are purchased at the ticketing office of the operating company, located at the Silverbird Mall in the Central Business District, which is also the take off point for the tour, which has about 14 stops round the city.

The office is in a vantage position and in a plush environment with attractive

The Arts and Crafts village

The tour bus The operating bus for the city tour is a red colour double-decker type buses with well laid compartments and seats that look somewhat like an aircraft's interior. The ambience inside is posh with enough leg room for the passengers. There are about three distinct sections - the passengers' section, the driver’s compartment, which is screened off from the passengers' section and the section for the tour guides who conduct the tours.

There is the upper deck with an open roof

which many passengers seem to prefer.

Tour of the city The first boarding point for the city tour bus is the ticketing office where passengers board amid thorough security checks by officials. Health precaution is also observed with hand sanitisers provided for the passengers before boarding. The city tour is a round trip across the city as its 14 stops cover a major part of the city, giving the tourists a rare opportunity to feast on the major tourist attractions of the city with about 24 attractions on the route to savour.

From the Silverbird Mall the bus made its first stop at the Arts and Craft Village, which is sandwiched between the mall and Abuja Sheraton Hotel. Here the people are treated to some of the finest and rare art and crafts from the various parts of the country on display, from textile to bronze, sculptures and paintings as well as some cuisines. The tour guide enlivened the trip as he gave details of the art history of the country which was quite educating.

This turned out to be one of the most interesting and profound aspects of the trip with the tour guide taking everyone through the history of the city, the country itself and the various attractions and historic buildings, which dot the various stops as the tour made its rounds. It is this volume of information, well rehearsed and delivered, sometimes in a most dramatic manner by the tour guide that enriched the tour and made it a memorable event for many tourists, particularly the foreign visitors and those visiting the FCT for the first time.

Yung Liu, a Chinese tourist, was one of the tourists overwhelmed and excited by the rich and abundant craft and artifacts that were on showcase at the Arts and Craft Village.

For him, the sight was an amazing and

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Travel & Tourism 43

sounds aboard a city tour bus

Silverbird mall Ecowas building

enchanting one. Just like others, he ended up buying quite a few of the items. These included a crocodile skin bag and some beads which he admired most. According to him, "city sightseeing tour is a good thing to come to Abuja especially for visitors. If it wasn't for this opportunity, I wouldn't have known that such a wonderful market exists in Abuja."

Other stops along this route were the National Mosque and National Ecumenical Centre, two architectural masterpieces. With the two buildings located within few metres of each other, they are supposed to signpost the country's secular nature. Other delightsome structures within the Central Business District are the magnificent NNPC Towers and the CBN building, both enchanting edifice to behold.

Moving down to Garki District along Herbert Macaulay Way is the gigantic International Conference Centre, adjacent to another elegant building of national significance as the ICC - Radio House. This houses the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). The premier conference centre, which is managed by FCT administration, is reputable for hosting international and national events.

The tour guide spoke extensively about the centre and its various facilities, which according to him, includes several meeting rooms and a main conference hall that has the capacity to accommodate over 1,700 people, as well as multi-lingual facilities ideal for international conferences. It also has about 65 offices, with services such as international telephone, fax, telex, internet and

other secretarial services.

For sports enthusiasts, a visit to the Abuja International Stadium, which was the next stop, was as exciting and a dream come true. The stadium is a magnificent structure with its own glamour and appeal for sports fans. The 60,000 capacity stadium has facilities for football, athletics, basketball, velodrome, volleyball, and handball among others.

It has over the years continued to attract visitors.

Next on the stop was the ECOWAS Secretariat situated in Asokoro District, just behind A.Y.A Flyover. It has the second largest hall after ICC, with a capacity to take 2,000 people. This building is another landmark in the city and and hosts many of the organisation's functions.

Moving through the length of the inner city, from the foot of Aso Rock is the Three Arms Zone which divides the city into two wings, with Maitama and Wuse Districts to the north, while Garki and Asokoro fall to the south. The Aso Villa is where the president works, and the Aso Rock is the most profound and prominent landmark of the city as well as the face of the city, in terms of symbolism and imagery. The city starts from the foot of the rock, spreading southwards beginning with the Three Arms Zone which derives its name from the fact that the three arms of the Federal Government of Nigeria - the executive (Presidency), legislature (National Assembly) and the judiciary (Supreme court) are located.

Other notable tourist attractions in this district are the Abuja Zoological and Botanical Garden, Millennium Park and a host of others.

Then there is the Eagle Square, adjacent to the Three Arm Zone with the cenotaph in honour of military veterans across the road facing the square with a lone sentry keeping watch round the clock while the Federal Secretariat, housing civil servants, and the office of the Head of Service, is located by its side. The square has become a national venue for hosting different events, ranging from social, political, social to religious by both the government and the public.

Transcorp Hilton Hotel on Shagari Way was our next stop on the tour.

The hotel, which is perhaps the most glamorous hospitality outfit in the

city, comes with its own pomp and attractions. A very attractive and inviting environment, this magnificent structure exude elegance and power given that it's more or less a second home to the city's political class and extremely wealthy.

After over one hour on the tour, it was at the hotel that one for the first time stepped out for some refreshment.

We went for a cup of coffee and lingered on for awhile to take in the beauty of the hotel and catch a glimpse of the activities at the facility. It was quite an interesting sight to bask in. Some of the buildings within the hotel’s precincts also came into view and these includes the Nigerian Communications Commission, Nigeria Investment Promotion Council, Raw Materials and Research Council of Nigeria, Corporate Affairs Commission, Nigeria Human Rights Commission, National Universities Commission and Power Holding Company of Nigeria.

What a fulfilling day it was and a way to have a feel of the city, where one has dwelt over the years but, ironically, never had an opportunity to feel its pulse and discover many of its hidden treasures.

The benefits For the City Sightseeing Manager, Princess Ijeoma Onyeanusi, introducing the service is a good one, as the economic benefits are immense. For now, the patronage, she said is yet to catch on. She puts it about 30 percent since inception. ‘‘Most countries that understand the value of tourism will tell you that there are lots of economic prospects of city sightseeing tour,’’ she said,

Transcorp Hilton Hotel

adding that ‘‘by the time people come to realise that instead of travelling to South Africa or Dubai they can actually come to Abuja and have comfortable reception, our economy can have added value. When they are coming to Abuja for the purpose of city sightseeing, they will come up with a budget to first lodge in a hotel." ‘‘Also, the city sightseeing is fashioned in such a way that the ticket you purchase will take you to 14 different stops, and by the time you get to each of these stops, you are allowed to come down and have a walk around for some minutes which offers you the opportunity to shop as you move from one stop to another. All these add value to the economy, and subsequently enhancing economic viability of Abuja in particular and Nigeria at large. Apart from this it is helping to revive the tourist status of some recreational parks and gardens."

Besides, the company, she said, is giving residents a worthwhile experience. "People are getting value for their money. They are getting the fun they desire in the first place, and the economy is also boosted by the money that is been put in by those come to patronise.

That apart, by City Sightseeing coming to Abuja, jobs have been created because people have been employed to run and administer the City Sight project. Already we have a minimum of 20 staff that are gainfully employed."

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Politics

'Jonathan shouldn't take South-East votes for granted'

Politics

When a typically taciturn elder statesman like Dr. Alex Ekwueme grants an interview, the public seldom ignores. And when the language deployed is not the sort couched in the familiar diplomatese often favoured by genteel public figures like the former vice president, it's obvious that feathers would be ruffled. From his statement that he has no reason to be in PDP today given the way he has been treated to insinuation that President Jonathan doesn't give him the respect he deserves, Ekwueme pulled no punches in this exciting interview. Excerpts:

El-Rufai tackles Kaduna government over debts p.49

How Sure-P creates jobs for Nigerian graduates p.50

Perspective Talking about resolutions p.51

Your Excellency, how has life been with you?

Well, I cannot thank God enough for all He has done for me. At 83, I’m fit and lively. This morning, I’ve played two sets of tennis, there are many people at my age who can’t walk unsupported and some are bedridden, but by the grace of God am still very fit and moving about. So, life has been good to me, and I cannot thank God enough for all these benefits bestowed on me within these 83 years plus.

What is the secret of your good health?

I don’t really know, but I think the main factor is that everything should be done with moderation. I drink, but I don’t drink to a point where I start misbehaving. I eat, but I’m not a glutton, I just eat enough to satisfy my appetite.

I smoke, not cigarette anymore, I smoke cigars once or twice a week and I try to exercise to keep fit. I think these are basically what I can refer to, if you want to call them the secret of my good health.

Okay, let’s look at Nigeria. In 1960, you were a youth. What was the Nigeria you saw at independence, up to the time you became the Vice President in 1979 and to the period you left in 1983?

In 1960, I was at the Race Course, as it was called then, on October 1, when the Union Jack was lowered and Nigerian flag, the Green-White-Green was hoisted and Prince Alexandra handed over the instrument of office to Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the First Prime Minister of Nigeria. At that time, we had very lofty expectations of what Nigeria would become. In fact, those of us then, we felt Nigeria would be the pride of the African continent, and that it would be a model of the

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ex-British colony because the journey to independence was very tortuous. There were many conferences, starting from the Ibadan Conference of 1950, so many conferences in Nigeria, so many in UK until arrangement was fashioned, which was acceptable to the leaders at that time. So we were very optimistic and hopeful that with this detailed work at independence, that Nigeria would be a success story of British colonialism. Now, as you know, that has not been because within five years and six months of that exercise, the political terrain had become so rough to a point that those of us who lived in Lagos could not travel to Ibadan in safety without fear that you would be stopped on the way and your car burnt, and there was almost a state of anarchy. In that confusion, some CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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young soldiers thought the best thing to do was to get rid of the leadership, not just the leadership, but their own leadership, the military leadership, which was what happened in 1966 and which triggered a chain of reactions and counter reactions. In July, the same year, there was counter reaction which resulted in the elimination of most of the military officers in Eastern Nigeria and after that it got to a situation where we had to scamper from the North to the Eastern Nigeria in search of safety, the rest is now history. There was secession and there was civil war and after three years, we came back in January, 1970, until 1979, the military decided to hand over to the civilians. That’s how we came on board. But three months in the second term, they came up again; they put us aside and took over.

On December 31, 1983 they had a palace coup within the military, which changed the leadership that lasted almost eight years, the Babangida regime, until he stepped aside and then brought in an interim government.

From interim government to Abacha, from Abacha to Abdulsalami and Abdulsalami decided to hand over to the civilians. In 1999, ‘civilians’ (in quotation marks) came back on the scene but the civilian who came back was the military civilian.

At independence, you had lofty expectations and in 1979 you were given an opportunity to become the Number Two citizen.

What efforts did you make to ensure that those lofty dreams were realized?

Until December 31, 1983, that period can be regarded as the golden age of Nigerian politics, because there was democratic freedom in the real sense of it. The party at the centre then, NPN (National Party of Nigeria), the chairman of the party came from the South-West, the President from the NorthWest, I, Vice President from the South-East, the President of the Senate from the SouthSouth and eventually Speaker of the House first, from the South-East and later from the North-Central. So, every part of Nigeria had a sense of belonging, you cannot buy that cheaply in the market. That is the main thrust of our contribution. But unfortunately, the military was impatient to let that experiment grow and three months in the second term they came again; otherwise, if we had continued, Nigeria would have become a modern democratic state in which every Nigerian will have a sense of belonging, which is the most important thing and everybody will have a sense of citizenship and nobody will feel he or she is a second class citizen and we would have provided security and a mass oriented programme like housing, Green Revolution, that’s agriculture. So, these are the contributions we had.

You said that the return of civilian rule, the first one by Obasanjo, was a kind of military civilian administration. We remember that you were at the head of the G34 that metamorphosed into the PDP that drafted Obasanjo into that election; so why did you say so?

It is not G34 that drafted Obasanjo. He was in jail in Yola when we organized the party and the first election under the new civilian dispensation was the local government election in December 1998, which was to be a litmus test for deciding which political parties would be registered, and as you will recall PDP swept the votes throughout the country. It was a very popular party, so we made the party at the risk of our own lives. If you go back to 8th May 1998, one of the magazines had a shouting headline: ‘Ekwueme takes on Abacha.’ It wasn’t a pleasant thing for Abacha to hear. If I do not have friends who warned me, I won’t

be alive talking to you now because he didn’t like what we were doing at all. And of the 34 who were represented in the G34, I was actually the one that was signing the memorandum, it is my signature that was on it and in other documents because I was chairman of the group, and he didn’t like it.

And Directors of the SSS in Enugu where I stay, in Anambra here, my home state and in Owerri, Imo State where I have business interest, were told to keep 24-hour watch on me so that anytime it pleases Abacha, I would be picked up. But somebody, a friend who didn’t like what probably was to happen came and told me, and said I must get out of here very quickly and I did. I drove from here to Cotonou to Ghana and from Accra I fled to London and I was in London planning how to strategize to come back, and then Abacha died. Then Abdulsalami invited us, the United Nations, Kofi Annan came and spoke to us, the G34 group, the Secretary General of the Commonwealth came and spoke to us, then we moved on until the actual return of civilian politics. But don’t forget the background that led to the popularity of the PDP in the December 1998 elections, that is local government elections, House of Assembly elections, state governorship, National Assembly and presidential election, which our party swept across the whole country and the idea of the party was not that it would be an ordinary party, it was intended to be a mass movement, that’s why I said everybody should come on board including people who were fraternizing with Abacha.

I remembered in one meeting we held at the Federal Palace Hotel, that was the first day Barnabas Gemade came to our meeting and Jibril Aminu objected to his presence there, because he was the chairman of the Committee for National Consensus, that is, the five parties that had adopted Abacha’s presidency. Jibril Aminu said he should not be allowed to stay and I was the one presiding over the meeting and I said he should be allowed, that we were starting on a clean slate and that we wanted this party to be a party for all Nigerians to come together and it would be a mass movement, so that all things being well, we would follow the philosophy that inspired the organization as a party that will rule Nigeria for 60 years. It wasn’t a bluff or a matter of bragging, it was the reality of the situation. I wouldn’t say that our original dream has been sustained because it’s no longer the mass movement that we envisaged.

So, what went wrong?

What went wrong in the first place was that they drafted Obasanjo. First and fore-

If I did not have friends who warned me, I won’t be alive talking to you now

most, Obasanjo was not qualified under our rules to run or be a candidate for the presidential election because the National Executive Committee of the party had in November 1998 decided that anybody who wanted to contest the presidency must win his local government during the local government elections because the qualification for being a party candidate is that you must win the local government elections. So if you don’t win the local government elections you won’t be registered. The party took that decision at the NEC meeting that everybody who wanted to contest for the presidency must win the local government elections of December, that was in November. As you all know, Obasanjo didn’t win his local government, he didn’t win his state, he didn’t win his ward, and he didn’t even win in the polling station in front of his house. So,

by NEC’s guidelines, he wasn’t qualified to run at all. Don’t ask me how he came to run, that’s part of Nigerian machinations. The National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Dr. Patrick Dele Cole and the National Vice Chairman for the South-East, Dr. Sylvester Ugo wrote letters to the screening committee attaching the NEC resolution of November, which was confirmed at the meeting in December presided over by one of Obasanjo’s cohorts of blessed memory, Deputy Chairman South-West and because Obasanjo was not part of the group forming the party he did not know

the philosophy.

So, how did he emerge in the first place?

Well, they said some military people went to his place; Babangida and General Gusau, went to Ota to beg him to come in and after that, the Shehu Yar’Adua element within our party, represented by Atiku took over; they said it was Obasanjo they wanted, they were not happy about my prospect of becoming the president.

That was what happened because they had the coup in 1983, they thought I would come there and be vindictive. I assured them I wasn’t going to do a postmortem, that I have plans for Nigeria, I wasn’t going to look backwards, they didn’t believe it; they wanted one of them they could speak esprit de corps with, that’s how he came on board. For him, PDP was just a vehicle he used for acquiring political power and having done that, he tried to convert it to a private property changing the chairman at will and within a space of two years we had four national chairmen of the party, Solomon Lar whom I handed over to, to Barnabas Gemade to Audu Ogbe, and then to Ahmadu Ali and so on and so forth.

This PDP you envisioned will be in power for 60 years, but from what you are telling us now it appears this dream is going to be a mirage. So how can PDP bounce back, or is it shattered already?

The truth is that the PDP as it is today was not the PDP we founded in 1998; that is the truth, I won’t hide it from anybody.

It is not the PDP I risked my life to found in 1998. Now, PDP has been hijacked by people who have no philosophical or

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PDP a mass movement' spiritual attachment to the precepts that informed formation of the party in 1998.

What I envisaged for PDP in 1998 was that it would be a mass movement, satisfying the needs of the masses and having membership from all over the country. But at a stage, the political party decided to do registration all over again and everybody lost his membership and had to apply again to register your name and those likely to dance to their tune were registered while the others found it difficult to register in a party they helped to found, so that is it. So, the problem started from day one, election of President of Senate, the first President of Senate was elected by votes of only 22 PDP Senators, all the other Senators who voted were not PDP Senators. Whereas PDP had 66 Senators out of 109, they refused to use their votes to elect the President of Senate and from there opposition started.

From the picture you have painted, it appears that the foundation of the PDP is now shaky. Do you think it will be able to stand the opposition of the APC that is strongly rooted in the North and in the West in the 2015 general elections?

Strongly rooted in the North and in the West. Until you get to the ballot box you don’t know where you are strongly rooted because what I can tell you is that the PDP will not have an easy walkover this year as it did few years ago, seven years ago, and 11 years ago; in 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011 because the party is finding it difficult to manage its successes. The person contesting for governorship in Sokoto is PDP elected Speaker, Tambuwal, the person contesting for APC governorship in Katsina is a former PDP elected Speaker, Masari, it’s like that everywhere. People who founded and worked for the party are alienated by poor management of success, and those who do not have the patience, some of us have decided to find new channels to fulfil their political ambitions. I, for instance, the chairman of the party, first chairman of Board of Trustees, first chairman from the civil society to G34 and so on, if I was not myself, I’m not bragging, I am being modest, I have no reason to be in PDP today. All I have received throughout the years is humiliation and neglect.

When there is crisis they remember that I’m around. The late Yar’Adua, when he came on board as the President, invited me and said he knew our party was in a shambles and he felt that I was the only person, as the person who started it at first place, that could bring people around and together and he put up the reconciliation which I handled all over Nigeria, visited people, talked to those who are disgruntled, people who had issues resolved and made our recommendations. Unfortunately, those recommendations were not fully fulfilled, President Yar’Adua himself passed on. For the fact that we do not have enough opposition is to my view a natural development. When IBB decreed two political parties, NRC and SDP, he called me and asked what I thought of that, I told him in principle that I am in support of two party system where there are two strong parties. But I have reservations for the two party system being created by a decree. So, now in this dispensation we have the PDP, we have the APC which is the major opposition party which I think is healthy one provided we base our decision making on issues rather than abuses.

Why has the party you formed turned around to neglect you?

I told you that I have no business being in PDP today because I am not a noisemaker.

I am not created to be a noisemaker or to create trouble, they are using it to deny me whatever is due to me. Because you are a gentleman, you won’t disturb, rather the people who shout and make noise, they

How would you access that of the incumbent President Jonathan. How would you see the presidency under Jonathan?

Well, it’s not a question you should be asking me really, as long as I’m in PDP, I cannot come out to say PDP president is rubbish, except that each president must have his own decision making capabilities and must make a personal input in the presidency for which he will be remembered. Some are remembered for what they have done and some are remembered for just having occupied that seat.

try and accommodate themselves so that they don’t create problems, I think it is an unfortunate approach to life. But those who don’t make noise and don’t create troubles also have feelings as human beings and they should not have been denied what is due to them. If I am a trouble maker Obasanjo would not have been civilian President because that Jos convention where he was elected, after the returning officer announced the results, I had in my pocket a copy of the NEC decision of November 1998 showing that to qualify you must win your local government. All I needed to say after the candidates’ result was announced is ‘I’m sorry, this election which we just finished there is supposed to be seven candidates but in fact only six, the person whom you said had won is not a candidate and cannot be because the NEC has taken a decision and only a convention can change that decision and no convention has been called to change that decision, so I expect that of the six candidates left, Don Etibet, Francis Ellah, Philip Asiodu, Jim Nwobodo, myself and (Graham) Douglas, of these candidates left I scored the highest votes; so I expect the party to forward my name to INEC as the candidate of the party and Secretary of the party then was Dr. Okwy Nwodo and the constitution which the party was operating at that time for the administration of the party, the secretary of the party is the chief executive of the party, the chairman was just like the chairman of a board of a company. It was later that we changed it and made the chairman chief executive of the party. And if I had done that, Nwodo would have been bound to forward my name to INEC. And Solomon Lar who was instrumental to Obasanjo running in the first place by asking the screening committee to give him provisional clearance, which was never substantive before the election, would have forwarded Obasanjo’s name to INEC, so PDP, which was a frontline party would have had two candidates and there might have been crisis and the military might have postponed exit for us to resolve. And I don’t want my personal ambition to be the reason for prolonged military rule in Nigeria, which I risked my life to fight against. So, I embraced Obasanjo and greeted him. Three

If I am a trouble maker Obasanjo would not have been civilian President

weeks after that, at the dinner fund raising for him, I chaired the dinner at the conference hall of Hilton and in the East here I paid for broadcast in all the nine FRCN stations in the former Eastern Nigeria, saying that they should support Obasanjo. So, as I said maybe because I am not a trouble maker I have been taken for granted, anybody can step on my toes and I’m not given what is due to me but there is a limit to one’s acceptance of humiliations and provocations and one will come to say enough is enough.

If you had gone ahead to become the President of Nigeria, we know that Presidents run the country based on party manifesto, would you have made any difference bearing in mind that you have same PDP party manifesto to guide you?

Of course, yes. Presidents make impacts because of their personal stamp of administration. For instance, you don’t tell me that Obasanjo’s presidency, of course, they were on PDP manifesto, was not different from Yar’Adua’s or Goodluck Jonathan's, the incumbent president. The presidency must have an imprint of the person who has the presidential power, so I would have given Nigeria something different.

So in essence the Yar’Adua/Jonathan presidency is better than that of Obasanjo?

No, I am not saying that, each one has its merits and demerits.

But many believe he has lost grip because of what is happening in the country. You can see insurgency in the North, kidnapping and all the rest of them in the South, because of all these people said he has lost grip?

Well, you should bear in mind that this trouble in the North-East didn’t start with Jonathan. At a time insurgents were occupying local government headquarters in Yobe State before Jonathan even came on the scene, but it escalated after Jonathan was elected and 2011. Stories connect it to some statements made in 2011 that if Jonathan wins they will make the country ungovernable. And after the election insurgents took over a whole region of a country that out of 26 local governments in Borno State, Boko Haram is in charge of 22. So it’s a situation that is not necessarily of Jonathan’s making. However, his approach to it, it’s a matter of approach.

In our time we had Maitatsine, I think in the same Borno State, the same Maiduguri but President Shehu Shagari didn’t waste time in crushing them. They resurfaced in Kano, we faced them again squarely, surfaced in Sokoto State, his own state, in area that was our showpiece for rural development, irrigation, there they were finally crushed, they didn’t rear their heads again until we finished. Then when Buhari came in 1984 they resurfaced again this time in Yola and he dealt with them as well. Some people said that you can’t kill insurgency with the force of arms, but even insurgents are not immortal, except for few who are suicidal elements; many of them don’t want to die in the final analysis. So, if you face them squarely, they are bound to retreat.

How is your relationship with President Jonathan?

Well, if I should describe, I will say the relationship is cordial, but that doesn’t mean that he gives me my due or that I endorse every action he takes. That’s how I can put it. I try to make our relationship as cordial as I could.

But he has been going around seeing some of the party leaders, recently he was in Minna and we have not heard that Jonathan came to see Dr. Ekwueme, yet you said you have a cordial relationship with him?

It’s a good question to ask him because Obasanjo was here in this house in November 1998. While he was President and on visit to Anambra State, he slept in this house in my bedroom. He came here and we had dinner with Anambra leaders, traditional rulers, political leaders and others and he spent the night here and the next morning he went on a visit to some projects and he left. When he came again on a state visit, he couldn’t sleep here because the governor insisted that he slept at the Government Lodge but he came here for lunch. I’m giving you examples, Jonathan since he became President has CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

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visited Anambra State severally but he hasn’t come to this compound. So I’m using it as an example.

Does it not mean that your relationship with him is not cordial instead as you claimed?

It is cordial, but maybe he doesn’t appreciate that without my risking my life there would have been no PDP and the popularity that made it possible for him to become the President of Nigeria.

Okay, I know, for instance, my friend Braithwaite of NAP had his birthday, the President went to Lagos to celebrate with him, but I had my 80th birthday and he did not come.

Was he invited?

The whole Nigeria was invited. Of course, he was invited but he did not appear personally at any of the events, even the ones in Abuja. So it is a matter of style.

Let’s come to your state. You cofounded PDP and one would have expected that your state should be core PDP but over the years it’s APGA that holds sway here. What happened?

In the1999 election, Anambra State in the presidential election gave the highest number of votes throughout the whole federation to PDP. The state was 100 per cent PDP as it was from Anambra State that they sent people to go to other states including Bayelsa to set up PDP state branches. But then we are in Nigeria, at one stage I suspected that the then President Obasanjo was not so happy that PDP was in control of my state, when he had no state executive and there was a deliberate effort to disorganize PDP in this state. Even some people went as far as burning the government property. So the party was disorganized, and in fact, the emergence of Peter Obi was as a result of protest votes by PDP members.

Now, we have election in less than two months, people are disgruntled. At the last election, the state voted overwhelmingly for President Jonathan, we had the highest per cent of all the six geo-political zones for the President. In less than two months when elections are held, many people from South-East may not vote for Muhammadu Buhari for reasons which I will not go into now, but it does not necessarily mean they will vote for Jonathan because of how things have evolved. Many will not vote at all. Not casting their vote at all is a minus for the President, so he shouldn’t take the South-East for granted that it will be the same 99 per cent votes that will come from the South-East in 2015.

It might not be.

Is it too late for PDP to make amends and revive its fortunes?

Well, the leadership of the PDP in every state in the South-East does not have coherence, well organized PDP structure today. Ebonyi is in disarray, Enugu is abdicated, Abia, Anambra have about six different factions, Imo is not serious at that, so it requires hard work for PDP to bring together the South-East to how it was eight years ago. My worry is that many of them in the leadership of PDP don’t even realize that there is this danger, they think it is business as usual, so they take South-East for granted that they will vote that same way they voted, 90 per cent of vote to President Jonathan, it may not happen.

So in the heat of this crisis did you

make any effort to advise the gladiators?

One of them, I won’t mention names, who was most offended by the machinations of the party headquarters, when he wanted to leave the party I talked to him and said, 'I am still in this party in spite of what has happened over the last 20 years, so why are you leaving just because of one incident, stay and carry on in PDP as you used to do'. And he listened to me.

As it is now, what will is your earnest advice to PDP to avoid defeat in the upcoming elections?

Go down to those offended in all the states, and make peace with them. Actually, call genuine reconciliation and do give and take to accommodate all.

Not if you take a decision today, one group comes you promise you will do this, next week another group comes you say a different thing and you follow that group, that is not how to bring the party together.

Your Excellency, the problem of PDP appears to be that of lack of internal democracy, why is it difficult for internal democracy to reign in your party?

If you read our report, half of it is devoted to internal democracy. If there is internal democracy and somebody loses primary election he will not go crazy about it and start being destructive. But if things are not done fairly that is what causes trouble most of the times. The problem of internal democracy is linked to lack of integrity, equity and justice.

When your presidential ambition was truncated, one would have expected that subsequently you would launch back to actualize your dream, why did you jettison that dream?

Well, it was truncated actually in 1999, and I have talked about how the election went and somebody who was not qualified in the first place was given the ticket. But four years after that, I tried again, people told me that I was wasting my time contesting against the incumbent who has all the resources and the power of information and so on. In spite of that, I felt I had some ideas that would benefit Nigeria but it failed. By 2007, Obasanjo had done eight years based on our own arrangement at the national convention that the presi-

The Northern states can’t be taking the presidency after Jonathan because for seven years the North-East had the head of government of this country, Tafawa Balewa

dency would move to the North, so I didn’t want to utilize my opportunity again. 2011 Jonathan acted as President although Vice President and wanted to actualize his own dream and I supported him.

There is this new agitation for an Igbo to succeed Jonathan in an unbroken line. Ohanaeze Ndigbo is in the forefront of that campaign that it is the turn of the Igbo to produce the next President after Jonathan. Do you think this is feasible?

The feasibility is a matter of negotiation that in terms of justice and equity, I think the South-East is to produce the next president. The Northern states can’t be taking the presidency after Jonathan because for seven years the North-East had the head of government of this country, Tafawa Balewa, the South-West had three years of Obasanjo from the military formation, 1976 up to 1979 and then 82 days of Shonekan and eight years of Obasanjo, the North Central has had nine years of Gowon from 1966 to 1975, eight years of Babangida, 1985 to 1993, one year of Abdulsalami, that is 18 years. The North-West… three years of Abacha, so it is the South-East

that has six months of Aguiyi Ironsi and South-South by the time Jonathan takes his second term will be nine years. So the South-East has been short-changed and on the basis of equity and fair play, the spirit of live and let live, everybody should support the South-East, that is why I said it is a matter for negotiation.

That is the right thing to do but whether all Nigerians will agree to accept it is what I can’t tell now.

Back to your party PDP, as a father you will always wish your children well, have you in anyway approached the leadership of the party to proffer solutions to the party’s problems?

Do you think I should be looking for the leadership of the party or the leadership of the party should be looking for me if they have any sense of history? I will give them my advice but I will not go to beg to do so.

But as a father, it is incumbent on the father if his son is going astray to call him to order We have cases in the South-East here, South-East national offices and those offices were shared/zoned to the five states, even the one that was zoned to Anambra State, when we had SouthEast zonal meeting, I was there and people who were in APP before were now the people sitting on the table telling me that they have decided that so, so and so should apply and so, so should not in my own state. I told them it was unfortunate because not only that I addressed them, I told them that what was zoned to Anambra State should be left for Anambra State to decide how they want to fill it. Just because you have an office in the national assembly or state, you felt you would dictate what will happen in every state, that is what I observed physically at the meeting.

What do you think will be the fate of the Igbo man, looking at the two dominant parties PDP and APC. Are you not worried that after the 2015 general election the Igbo man will still remain at the background?

The fact is that we are the minority. Before, we used to talk of Nigeria standing on a tripod, North, South and East; Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo, the others were complaining. Now, the Igbo is less effective in the list of minorities and is unfortunate.

You proposed the six geo-political zones during the National Conference upon which things are supposed to be distributed in this country. But today we still see that the South-East is the only geo-political zone that still has five states while others have six and one even seven, how do you feel about this?

In the political dialogue during Obasanjo’s regime, it was unanimously agreed by all the delegates that the South-East should have one additional state to make it six. It was adopted but as usual, the South-East tendencies could not agree on which state it will be, everybody wants it in his or her backyard, which he will control and there was no consensus. Nothing came out of it. Whereas, if we had agreed it would have been pushed to the National Assembly in the constitutional way.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This interview was conducted before the Peoples Democratic Party's rally in Enugu where President Jonathan took the opportunity to visit Dr. Alex Ekwueme.

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El-Rufai tackles Kaduna government over debts

ngaging, controversial and straight talking, Malam Nasiru El Rufai is anything but a frivolous or flippant person.

Gossips or pedestrian deductions never feature in his several discourses . However, for the ex Minister, nothing is off limit as his tell-all memoir has revealed. El Rufai, in that book, had written on his interventions in politics and governance to the chagrin of many. Significantly, his actions and inactions, whether at the Bureau for Public Enterprises or as Minister of Federal Capital Territory were well documented in his book, ‘’The Accidental Public Servant’’. Perpetually, he has crossed swords with allies and opponents alike, in and out of government. Right now, the pint sized technocrat is in politics and like always, El Rufai is in his elements, taking both the PDP and Governor Muktar Yero of Kaduna State to the cleaners.

Specifically, the APC gubernatorial candidate, in the next five weeks, wants to succeed Yero and El Rufai, at every turn, takes on the governor and PDP, decrying the lack of development in Kaduna state, its huge debt profile and the squandering of state resources. El Rufai, like a cracked vinyl record, kept making a song and dance of these failures in the run up to the February election. In particular, he kept hammering on the debt profile, accusing Yero and Architect Namadi Sambo, the Vice president, of piling them up to the roof. At first, El Rufai mentioned the debt on December 6, 2014, while interacting with journalists but neither the PDP nor Yero replied the APC governorship candidate. However, about 23 days later, El Rufai still made the accusation on Freedom Radio, a Kaduna-based FM station. This time, the former minister was more detailed with his allegation.

In 2006, Nigeria got a debt relief from its external creditors, El Rufai recalled, and what remained for Kaduna State was its domestic debts.

By 2007, the Ahmed Makarfi administration, according to El Rufai, had liquidated all the debts and Architect Namadi Sambo, Makarfi’s successor, did not inherit any debt. However, in the last seven years, between Sambo, Sir Patrick Yakowa and Governor Yero, the three-some have piled up a huge debt burden for Kaduna State.

Domestically, Kaduna state is owing local contractors, according to El Rufai, between N20 to N30 billion but he didn’t state its external indebtedness. Incidentally, the state receives the second highest allocation in northern Nigeria and in

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Kaduna state, Malam Nasiru El Rufai has accused the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP)-controlled state government of saddling the people with a huge debt burden. In addition, the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory(FCT) had alleged that the government has nothing to show for the debts that it had collected and the over N600 billion that it has received from the federation account. Last Tuesday, the government clarified the state of its indebtedness but the explanation raises some fundamental questions as IBRAHEEM MUSA noted in this analysis. the last seven years, it has received over N600 billion from the federation account, the former FCT Minister alleged.

However, in spite of these huge allocations, Kaduna state has nothing to show for it as its infrastructure is decayed, its health care is in shambles and the education sector is less than stellar. El Rufai, in that interview, stated that his criticism was not borne out of partisanship because Katsina and Gombe governors, all PDP controlled states, are performing but why should Kaduna state be different? Right now, Kaduna State is the second most indebted state in the country after Lagos, the former Minister revealed .

However, in spite of its debt profile, Lagos has the capacity to pay, as it ‘’generates N20 billion monthly internally but Kaduna state does not get N1 billion from Internally Generated Revenue,’’ El Rufai pointed out.

Significantly, eight days later, Kaduna state defended its self at a post budget press briefing. According to Alhaji Samaila

Right now, Kaduna State is the second most indebted state in the country after Lagos, the former Minister revealed

Aliyu, the Finance Commissioner, Kaduna state never took a loan from London or Paris Clubs, so it couldn’t have enjoyed the 2006 debt relief.

Similarly, the Sambo, Yakowa and Yero administrations, according to him, also inherited ‘’huge debts taken by past administrations since the inception of the state in 1965.’’. The commissioner further claimed that ‘’In 2006, there was a reconciliation and sharing of debts obtained as far back as 1965, between new Kaduna state and Katsina state.’’ At that time, the outstanding balance against Kaduna state was $84,995,475. ‘’These loans,’’ he further clarified, ‘’do not form part of the debt relief from Paris and London Clubs. They are loans obtained from multilateral institutions such as the World Bank, International Development Bank(IDA) and African Development Bank(AFDB).’’ As at December 31, 2013, Kaduna state is indebted to the tune of N37.5 billion, the Commissioner confirmed.

Before El Rufai, the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN), led

by Barrister Musa Soba, had criticised the state government in 2010, when it took a N15 billion loan from the Capital Market. The negotiations, according to reports, had started with Sambo but concluded when Yakowa succeeded him as governor of Kaduna state. In August, the final meeting took place between the Issuing Banks, officials of BGL and the Security and Exchange Commission(SEC). The funds, argued the state government, will fund some projects and they include the Zaria Water Treatment Plant, 300-bed Specialist Hospital and the Kafanchan Campus of Kaduna State University(KASU), as well as the forth Kaduna bridge.

The ACN, at that time, had condemned the loan as unnecessary and

wasteful, a debt that will mortgage Kaduna state. Thereafter, government officials tackled Soba and accused ACN of crying wolf where there was none. However, ACN’s fears were not misplaced as Zaria Water Works, four years later, is still a work-in-progress, so is the Kafanchan Campus of KASU. Similarly, the 300-bed hospital has been abandoned as the edifice lays at the Millennium City . In addition, no contractor has visited Madakiya road in southern Kaduna, one of the projects which the bond was to finance. However, the office blocks at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, the state seat of power, has been completed and commissioned.

Similarly, the Sambo administration took an Islamic Development Bank loan to build science secondary schools in the three senatorial districts of the state and to train teachers.

Critics, at that time, questioned the rationale behind taking a loan just to build secondary schools. However, Alhaji Saidu Adamu, the then Commissioner of Information, harped o the importance of science education and justified the loan. Four years on, the schools are still being built and no explanation has been given for the delay.

So far, the Commissioner of Finance’s explanation on the state of Kaduna’s debts raises some questions. Vague, opaque and diversionary, Alhaji Samaila’s defence will elicit more controversy in coming weeks, especially when campaigns begin.

In 1960, Kaduna was the capital of northern Nigeria and seven years later, following the creation of states, the city became the capital of North Central state. In 1976, the Murtala regime created seven more states, bring the number to 19 states. North Central state merely reverted to Kaduna state but nothing had changed apart from nomenclature. In 1987, Katsina state was created out of Kaduna state.

However, from Samaila’s clarification, Kaduna state seem to have inherited debts of the defunct northern region, even though it had not been created in 1965. Again, why did it take 19 years for Kaduna and Katsina states to reconcile and share their debts?

This and many more questions will demand answers as the governorship candidates mount the soap box in the coming weeks.

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El-Rufai

50 Politics Early last year, you said about 170,000 graduates applied for participation in the Graduate Internship Scheme under the SURE-P which was designed to assist 25,000 unemployed graduates. How much progress has been made?

Actually, lot of progress has been made. It’s not easy really when one thinks about the process. First of all, it’s not as if one would just matches anyone with any company. For instance, if I want to attach an intern to you, having looked at the CV, you’d want to meet with the person and have a discussion to be sure that the fellow is good enough. It takes a lot of processes to achieve. So what we tried to do this year was to do job fairs in different states where we match unemployed graduates with companies that need their services.

Basically, how it works is that a company registers online the same way interns will register and the companies will be automatically matched with interns who are based in the same location. The reason is that if they live in Lagos and they’re coming from Ibadan, that’s a lot of inconvenience for them. Last week, we had the matching in Lagos where we had about 300 companies. We registered about 3,000 graduates who were matched with these companies.

How it works is this, let’s say I am the representative of Chocolate City as a company and you are the intern, I meet you and ask you a few questions after going through your CV, if you are okay for me, I will consider you for the internship and the banks there would take your details. You have an account opened which means that you’re automatically on the system.

Within two weeks you’re deployed to the company to start work. The government has approved N30,000 monthly take home for the interns and their organisations may decide to add more.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

How Sure-P creates jobs for Nigerian graduates Audu Maikori, Convener, SURE-P Community Service, Women and Youth Employment and his team recently held a four-day job fair for unemployed graduates under age 40. The fair staged through Graduate Internship Scheme off the SURE-P held from Monday, December 8 to Thursday 11.

He told LANRE ODUKOYA how youths and private organisations are benefitting from the scheme. that partial removal, that has been able to achieve quite a bit especially in the area of infrastructure and social safety. There are two things here.

The modus of Graduate Internship Scheme is supposed to be a public private partnership initiative. It’s a programme off SURE-P. So, I’m focusing specifically on youth unemployment only. Even for my personal two years, I’ve been taking interns for the past two years apart from GIS. People just come from South Africa and undergo internship in my company.

They would say they are just

Have you started getting complimentary remarks yet from either the successful candidates or the companies?

We’ve been getting a torrent of that. We’re actually planning an event whereby companies will have an opportunity to share their experiences. I just even got a text from one of the beneficiaries we are doing a documentation of the success story. Of course, sometimes we found out that one or two people are trying to subvert the system, but that’s humans for you. That is why we have a very unique check and balance system w h e re we

Before now, how many have benefitted from this scheme?

Before now we’ve had about 13,000 graduates who had been fully deployed. We have another 10,000 who are in the process of being deployed as we speak.

When you complete this, what would be left for your committee to do?

It’s a cycle. Next year, another one will begin.

Indications are rife that there would be further removal of subsidy this year; won't that have an adverse effect on the scheme?

Well, this project is managed by the Ministry of Finance, the way we see it is that, depending on what oil prices go to, the fund is still there. Remember that the said money has been used before to give petroleum importers subsidy. With

The idea is to do 25,000 this year and do another 25,000 next year, but it’s subject to what happens with the budget

here to learn. And unless we inculcate that culture of learning by people who are fresh out of school and understudy someone who has done something before, you’d find out that the quality of staff you have is a big issue. We all know that when we get a fresh graduate, he or she barely knows anything.

So, it’s not just about the government, it’s about the public and private sector working together to enhance the skills of young people. With or without government, if that culture has started, it would continue in companies. Already we have a lot of supports from many companies, some don’t even take the N30,000 they take the interns and pay them directly.

Maikori

randomly, we send monitors to go to the companies unannounced to look for X, Y, Z, have they been to work?

If we realise that he or she hasn’t been going to work, we expel them from the system. We’ve had instances where people tried to connive with others not to go to work yet get paid.

Once we get them, we go ahead and blacklist them. Generally, we’ve had a great review. If you go on the internet alone and on the social media, you’d find many people testifying what the programme has done for them.

Would you increase the number of beneficiaries if you are able to make a case for more funds from the government especially because 25,000 is but a fraction of the number of Nigerian unemployed youths?

The idea is to do 25,000 this year and do another 25,000 next year, but it’s subject to what happens with the budget. I think the most important legacy here is that companies for the first time considered coming on board to help these young people achieve their dream jobs. The support we’ve been getting from these companies is overwhelming. In fact, there was this menial farmer who has made some money off farming and during the Maduguri crisis; he moved his business from Borno state to Nasarawa state. He started his farm business there and heard about the programme, he registered and we gave two Agricultural Science graduates. The interns told him that they could quadruple his yield, ‘just give us three months’, they told him.

As of January this year when he was giving us his testimony, he has made N8 million by the last Xmas. This was a business that was yielding N2 million previously. Now, he’s saying he doesn’t need GIS anymore. He only needs these guys to be part of his business permanently.

How exactly did you start as an entrepreneur?

I started making money when I was in the university because Chocolate City started from the university. It used to be like a club thing; we would bring a DJ and made some money. I used to paint, so I started selling my paintings to make money too. In law school, I was selling shirts and ties because I dressed well and people would always ask me, ‘where did you get this from?’

And by the time I answered, they would end up saying, ‘can you get it for me?’ I’ve always tried to be industrious.

Immediately after law school, I ventured into mining business. The first time, I made money and the second time, I lost everything. And I found myself fresh out of school with no job but a debt of N200,000. So, my father just said, if I were you, I will go to a law firm and learn.

Perspectives

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

O

ld habits die hard. If you were to count the number of filthy, meaningless things you do that have absolutely no bearing on your well being, perhaps, as the calendar and clock make you realize we have entered a new year and a new season, you will resolve to do things better. The greatest resolution a human being can make is to be a better a person! Live the next 365 days with the overwhelming overall principle that I am going to be better. Not necessarily new. Renewal is too big a challenge because people have to begin to see you in a new light.

Why renew yourself just to impress other people?

The best reason is to help yourself to be better in what you do!

The process of becoming better has to start with a downright unflinching decision that its now or never! It begins by you itemizing those things you would like to be better at and those other things you would like to do away with. Please be mindful of putting things into a proper perspective before you begin to take or make decisions. So lets start with these few perspectives. I often outline four key areas in which I naturally feel every human being would need some kind of betterment: relationships, finances, health and academics.

Speaking generally I must emphasize that every human being can i8mprove on these four key areas for as we often like emphasize, the biggest room is the room for improvement. Everyone needs other people, no man is an island. We need to know how to carry people along so that we can get what we want out of life. Undoubtedly, the most important relationships are those we have with God(I trust you believe in Him), our spouse(for those who are married), and our children( for those of us who have them.) There is always something more we can do or say to ensure that we are hitting tops in our dealings with other people. Let us not wait until something tragic happens or until we have a close shave with death before we try to make things right.

Our finances are just as important. Money makes the world go round and we ought to have at least two sources of getting some of it. Some people have three: a day job, an occasional project and an investment source. If you

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Resolutions, resolutions are over 40years of age and you are reading this then you ought to have all three!

Health naturally comes next. Many of us engage in eating and drinking habits that damage our bodies, sometimes permanently beyond repairs.

Nothing is greater than healthy eating and drinking habits for the human body. Of course what we sniff and breathe is also of utmost importance. The twenty first century that we live in believes in getting things done fast. The idea of getting what you

BUSINESS SENSE Alex Ogundadegbe

alexogundadegbe@gmail.com want at the drop of a hat is sounds good expect when it comes to the processing of food which should contain the necessary nutrients for the body to function properly but does not because of additives and preservatives that might

have been added to make the food durable and tasty.

Fresh fruits and vegetables at every meal are ideal for metabolic balance in the human body. The psychology that makes meat consumption a must at every meal is misdirected

and unhealthy. Fatty oils and cholesterol consumed at several meals a day can lead to a myriad of ailments. Habit has made fatty foods and sugar an obsession for the human palate and research has shown that these two components cause more damage to the human body than any other.

A good diet of fruits, nuts and vegetables guarantees better health when it is balanced with permissible exercise. Greater stamina and greater appetite for sleep is often the resultant effect.

Earlier on we listed academics. This does not necessarily mean that we ought to go back to school. But in order to keep our grey matter healthy, it certainly helps when we read, exercise our minds frequently and memorize certain details that we learn from books. This column dwells more on business more than any other thing. And even though we have veered off into other key areas they are all relevant since they would all help keep our business healthy.

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Faces

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

It was an enlivening experience as the management and staff of Daily Telegraph publishing company held its maiden New Year Thanksgiving service conceived as an annual event. The event, held on the organisation's premises, featured prayers, songs and homilies offered by Christian and Islamic clerics. Below are some faces at the event

L-R: Editor, New Telegraph, Mr. Yemi Ajayi; Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Eric Osagie; Parish Pastor, Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Elim Sanctuary, Lagos, Pastor Paul Olukunga and Chief Imam, Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque, Imam Abdul Lateef Abdul Hakeem

From left: Pastor Bayo Akintan, Editor Online, Biodun Durojaiye; Sunday Editor, Emeka Madunagu; Saturday Editor, Laurence Ani and Deputy Editor, New Telegraph, Emeka Obasi (background)

Head, Admin, Mr. Robinson Ezeh, speaking at the event

From left: Assistant Editor, Tobi Emmanuel; Deputy Editor, Ayodele Ojo; Deputy Editor, Emeka Obasi, Business Development Manager, Taiwo Ahmed

From right: Chief cartoonist, Aliu Eroje; Sales and Circulation Manager, Oyebanji Abiodun; Head of Accounts, Abiodun Akinade and a cross section of staff

News Editor, Geoffrey Ekenna (foreground); Crime Editor, Juliana Francis (front row right); Graphic Artists, Alex Nwanokwai and Rafiu Raheem; correspondent, Charles Ogundiya; IT officer, Victor Okoro; Assistant News Editor, Segun Edwards and some other members of the staff at the event

From right: Assistant Editor and Master of Ceremonies, Tobi Emmanuel; IT officer, Kayode Akindele; Correspondent, Dayo Ayeyemi; Head of Investigations, Isioma Madike and Cashier, Anne Samuel

From right: Editor, Education Desk, Kayode Olanrewaju; Graphic Artists, Bola Adekunle and Josephine Damisa and a cross section of staff

PHOTOS: TONY EGUAYE

Milestones

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10 JANUARY 2015

Tambuwal: The Eagle clocks 49

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Imam Imam s one political circle goes for another, elected office holders are traversing the length and breadth of the country giving account of their stewardship in the last four years and seeking a fresh mandate from the people. Many will face their constituents not knowing the sort of reaction they will get. For the fortunate ones, they will be received with open arms, given warm embrace and a new mandate. For the not so lucky, they will be turned back, and will be told to come back in four years, perhaps then, the people’s anger against them would have subsided.

In the ancient city of Sokoto tomorrow, Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, will come before the people of his state to present his score card and ask for a new mandate, this time, a mandate to be the Governor of Sokoto State for the next four years under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC). That new mandate will be a new beginning for both Sokoto and Tambuwal. This is because, today, Saturday, January 10, Tambuwal added a new year to his life. He clocked 49.

Much has been written about the life and politics of Tambuwal. In summary though, his courage, integrity, generosity and all-embracing character have stood high above everything else. Tambuwal has proven to be a dependable ally, one who can be trusted to be there for the people at all times. His leadership of the House of Representatives has ushered in a period of tranquility not seen in the Green Chamber since the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999. His performance as Speaker has set the bar in governance. His intrepidity in the face of tough challenges has inspired his colleagues and emboldened them to go about their duties without fear, or favour.

For Tambuwal, seeing Nigeria rise to greatness is something akin to obsession.

He has, at every available opportunity, reminded Nigerians of the need to promote democracy and respect human rights of all. These ideas stem from his belief that

strong democracies are more likely to secure peace, deter aggression, expand markets, promote development, combat terrorism and crime, uphold rights of workers, avoid humanitarian crises, protect and improve the global environment, and protect human health.

The Speaker's widely circulated opinions and discourses on good governance, public service, constitutional reform, youth and women empowerment and national development cannot be lost to genuine lovers of our country. He had on many occasions demonstrated his love for country above personal interest and taught others to do the same.

In the period since Tambuwal came to national consciousness, he has not lost touch with his base. Importantly, he has maintained what the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuade, described as “the proper upbringing” the Speaker passed through from his formative years. Perhaps, taking a cue from past leaders with inestimable value to their communities, Tambuwal has maintained a simple lifestyle dedicated to the service of the less privileged.

From the likes of Mahatma Gandhi, Winston Churchill, Malcolm X, Aminu Kano and Nelson Mandela, there can be as many ways to lead people as there are leaders. Of particular reference here is Malam Aminu Kano. Before he died over three decades ago, he preached and championed the cause of social justice, environmental harmony and spiritual purification. He upheld the universal principles of truth,

In the period since Tambuwal came to national consciousness, he has not lost touch with his base honesty, sincerity and keeping to time.

Today, these are virtues commonly attributed to Tambuwal.

Tambuwal remains the quintessential politician who has defied the notion that politicians, especially of the Nigerian variety, cannot say the truth to the powers that be while still in power. By now, Nigerians have come to identify their Number Four citizen as a fearless man whose words and deeds are not at variance with the hopes and aspirations of the men and women of his beloved country. In a clime polluted by years of sheer indiscipline and unfulfilled promises, the optimism, and testimonies openly exhibited by those who followed his leadership style in Abuja will no doubt gladden the hearts of the people of Sokoto who are now set to have him as their Leader in the coming years.

Not since independence have we seen a politician

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promote an ideology as fervently as the Speaker does. Tambuwal has promoted the concept of a strong dichotomy between politics and governance. To him, there is a marked difference between a candidate in electoral contest on the platform of a political party and an elected official who has assumed a non-partisan responsibility and taken oath to protect and preserve the constitution, to serve the people and the nation.

While the former is not merely at liberty but under a duty to be partisan, the latter must conduct himself in a manner worthy of the call to non-partisanship in governance. And whenever partisan interests conflict with national interest it is partisan interests that must be sacrificed in the preservation of the national interest. Tambuwal's candor, nationalistic outlook, ability to make fair and inclusive decisions, maturity and his desire to interact freely and affectionately with all Nigerians has today earned him the confidence of his colleagues and all Nigerians alike. His strong stance on discipline, accountability, and truth, and his penchant desire to do things differently, has set him aside and made him an example for elected office holders in the federation.

At 49, Tambuwal’s life is bedecked with the stellar. As Sam Omotseye once noted, Tambuwal’s quiet but visionary hand has held the often tempestuous House of Representatives on an even keel. This is the same House of riot and broken chairs in the past.

He has never attracted scandal to himself.

He is equable in temper and felicitous in language. He has secured the House and it does not play slave to the executive, and he has defended his legislative turf. He does not play the games of tribal and religious fidelity in the way that injures the commonwealth of citizens. He does not carry an air of the superior personage. That explains why all the rumoured plots of presidential-inspired impeachment did not fly. He knows how to hold his own without vanity or flamboyance. He is humble without servility, effective without showiness, brilliant without bullying.

• Imam is the Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs to Speaker Tambuwal.

Tambuwal

Perspectives

The point O'tega Emerhor wants to prove Dafe Abugo

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ith the presentation of the APC governorship candidate's flag to Olorogun O'tega Emerhor (OON) at the flag-off of the APC presidential campaigns in Warri, Delta State on Wednesday this week, all is now set for a titanic battle between the ruling PDP and the APC for the control of the Big Heart this year year. It is sure to be an epic battle because nowhere in the world, especially in this part of the world, is it easy for a challenger to defeat a sitting government in a crucial election such as the Delta governorship in 2015 political Nigeria.

But, O'tega Emerhor has come prepared to prove a point, namely, that even in these climes, the electorate has become much wiser than we are prepared to give ourselves credit for. Which is to say that we no longer tend to cast our votes sheepishly, driven largely by sentiments, but, with increasing discernment, only for those who have proven track records of service to the people and excellent performance in their public and private lives, people who can demonstrate that given the opportunity, they can do even better in the deliverance of democracy dividends to the people.

Fortunately for Emerhor, he fits this bill

Those close to Emerhor describe him as prudent and generous at the same time very well. Widely admired for his sense of community and team work, the famous banker and financial expert is a cheerful giver, who constantly makes generous donations to development projects that also go a long way in promoting the cause of unity among his people. Thus, he is credited with almost single-handedly paying for the construction of Uhroboh Cultural Centre at Uvwiamuge, although he is reported to be unhappy at the slow pace of work on the project. A huge employer of labour, who has empowered thousands of his constituents through direct and indirect employment opportunities, Emerhor is a wealthy investor, a boardroom maestro (like his kinsman Gamaliel Onosode) and financial expert who is on the board of

several blue chip companies in Nigeria, including Standard Alliance Insurance PLC where he is executive vice chairman, Vitamalt PLC and Heroes Group of Companies, which he chairs as well as the Transcorps Hotels of which he is also chairman. Those close to Emerhro describe him as prudent and generous at the same time, a wonderful combination in any man seeking to serve his people at the highest level of politics, where he is expected not only to manage resources prudently but also to be generous in giving and generally doing things for the good of the people.

It goes without saying, therefore, that given his background as a prudent resource manager and wealth creator, APC's populist programmes of massive job creation (the party promises 3m jobs in its first one year in office) and social security payments to unemployed youths and the elderly, cannot but sit gainly with Emerho who has spent much of his eventful adult life building companies and employing and empowering people. Emerhro gave an inkling into his socio-economic plans for Deltans recently when he visited the palace of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwase II for the Itsekiri monarch's blessings.

Addressing the Olu-in-Council,

Emerhro assured that if elected governor this February, he would initiate rural and riverine economic activities that would have positive impacts on the lives of the people through provision of standard roads and waterways, zero per cent soft loans to fishermen, artisans, market women, petty traders and other categories of small scale entrepreneurs who would desire to expand their businesses.

To be sure, such socio-economic reengineering would be replicated in all the three zones of the state and, indeed, in as many local governments. The good news is that since Olorogun O'tega Emerhor has always made a living creating and managing wealth, he is more likely than any other candidate in the race, to initiate and sustain such socio-economic activities as the Olu requested of him, in order to bring about massive turnaround in the lives of Deltans.

So, it is a choice for Deltans to make: to endure another four years and, therefore, a total of 20 years of PDP misrule, as Emerhro put it in one of his addresses to the people, or vote for a viable alternative, which Olorogun O'tega Emerhor, based on his well-known antecedents as a savvy wealth creator and prudent manager of men and materials, believes he is.

Sport Extra

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

GLO-CAF Awards:

Sport Slaming

Toure deserves the award, says Enyeama

S

Adekunle Salami

Emmanuel Tobi uper Eagles captain, Vincent Enyeama, has revealed that Cote D’ Ivoire and Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure deserved to win the 2014 CAF Africa Player of the Year award.

Toure beat Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Enyeama to win the award in Lagos Thursday night, but the Lille of France goalie took the defeat in good faith.

“I want to congratulate Toure for being the 2014 African footballer of the year. He deserved it and I’m not a bad loser.” he told Saturday Telegraph after the event.

Enyeama who hailed Toure for being the first player to win it four times and also equalling Samuel Eto’s record of four wins, commended fans for their support.

“A very big thank you to God for bringing me this far; without him, I wouldn’t have been here.

Thank you to my wife and all my family members, friends and loved ones.

Meanwhile, 1997 winner, Victor Ikpeba, has challenged Nigerian players to aim for top European clubs. “It has a lot to do with the clubs this players play for and how they also play for their national teams. You have to judge the performance of the player for the whole year.

“Toure is playing with some of the best players in the world, like Aguero, Nasri and Silva. The EPL is highly rated and Yaya shows every week that he’s one of the best midfielders in the world,” he added.

Glo-CAF Awards: How Toure won Fenerbahce Emmanuel Tobi

T

he statistics have revealed why Nigeria’s Vincent Enyeama, lost to Cote D’ Ivoire’s Yaya Toure in the 2014 CAF Africa Player of the Year award in Lagos on Thursday.

Toure got 175 points, closely followed by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s 120 points while the trio of Vincent Enyeama, Asamoah Gyan and Ahmed Musa got 105 points, 94 points and 78 points respectively.

CAF revealed that the top best five players in Africa got votes from 39 countries with Toure garnering five points each from 27 African countries to beat Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to second position as he got five points each from Botswana and Gabon while Enyeama scooped five points each from Guinea and Swaziland with Nigeria’s votes going to Ahmed Musa.

Tanzania, Cape Verde and Nigeria gave Musa five points each but his 78 points would have been useful to Enyeama if the votes were not divided between them.

adekunles@yahoo.com 08050498539 (sms only)

Eduok transfer saga

O

Ukoh joins Eagles in Abu Dhabi

deny Emenike’s £10m Spurs link

N have responded angrily to those claims, suggesting that what Hurriyet printed was 'false' and that there are no discussions over Emenike.

"Emmanuel Emenike is a contracted player with this club until 2017. From Fenerbahce, there is no work ongoing about the transfer of the said player," read a statement on the club's website.

The statement added: "Readers, the Hurriyet newspaper circulated false news, and we ask the public not to believe this news.”

Ifeanyi Ibeh

T

urkish club, Fenerbahce, have denied reports that they would accept £10m for Tottenham Hotspurs target Emmanuel Emenike.

Reports in Turkey have been rife that Spurs are pursuing a deal to sign the Nigerian international, with the player's agent quoted by a Turkish newspaper, Hurriyet, talking up a possible move to the English Premier League side.

However, Fenerbahce

igeria’s national team, the Super Eagles on Friday morning landed in the United Arab Emirates for the two international friendlies against Cote D’ Ivoire and Sudan later in the month. The team met Swiss-based Stephen Ukoh in the UAE. The Emirates Airliner that the team boarded from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday night landed at the Dubai International Airport about 5:30am local time, which is 2:30am in Nigeria. After airport formalities, the team of 19 players and officials took a bus ride from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, a journey of about an hour.

Djokovic loses to Karlovic in Doha

N

one struggled to control his ground strokes in high winds.

In the semi-finals, Karlovic will face Spain's David Ferrer, who overcame Germany's Dustin Brown 6-2 6-2.

Third seed Tomas Berdych

ovak Djokovic suffered a surprise loss against Croatia's Ivo Karlovic 6-7 (2-7) 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 in the Qatar Open quarterfinals in Doha.

Karlovic, 35, served 21 aces as the world number

from the Czech Republic will face Italy's Andreas Seppi in the other semi.

Berdych saw off France's Richard Gasquet 6-2 6-1, while Seppi enjoyed a 7-5 6-4 victory over Ivan Dodig of Croatia.

GAMES/CROSS WORD PUZZLE Countries in the World-3

KEY WORDS

FIJI EL SALVADOR KIRIBATI MICRONESIA NAURU CUBA DOMINICAN

GUYANA GRENADA PERU HAITI SURINAME HONDURAS VENEZUELA COLOMBIA BRAZIL ECUADOR ARGENTINA

N G T R O D A U C E K

A A R G E N T I N A I

U E L S A L V A D O R

R G R E N A D A T I I

A S A R U D N O H T B

B U C H I N U R I N A M H E O M N F L P U I A A I W R C Y I Z R U R U B A E A O G M R C N N R O B W R E W L I A H S V O A T I I E C

I

D

O M

I

N

I

C

A

N

G

1

2

8

3

4 7

5

6

9 10

T

11

12

E

14 16

I J N

18 19

L I J I

21

Y

25

15 17

22

1 5 7 8 9 10 11 12

Make amends, (7).

Soaked, (3).

Nat. Orientation Agency, abbr., (3).

Foot's digit, (3).

Lagos' suburb, (3).

Mangle, (4).

Polite, (4).

Exist, (2).

DOWN 1 Defunct, (7).

20

2 Give a sermon, (6).

23

3 Passage into a coal mine, (4).

4 Coating, (6).

5 Third Republic PDP Senator, (4).

24

F

H

13

ACROSS

16 17 18 22 23 24 25 26

Nigeria political party, (2).

Ray Power Radio owners, (4).

Bound collection of pages, (4).

Trouble, (3).

A long white priest robe, (3).

Paddle, (3).

Tavern, (3).

Description, (7).

14 Kind of Yoruba music, (6).

15 Capital of Equatorial Guinea, (6).

19 Calabar typical name, (4).

20 Alliance, (4).

21 Indicating 'three', (3).

6 Unit of weight for wool, (3).

26

13 Gymnast entertainer, (7).

See solution on page 37

ne of the major problems of Nigerian players is illiteracy. They lack the basic knowledge of running their career without hitches. Due to greed and ignorance, some of them fall into wrong hands in a desperate bid to make money quickly in the round leather game. In football, it is better to aim at hitting the limelight in a big way than aspiring to make money right from the start. This is the mistake many Nigerian players make. After hitting the limelight, money will come naturally with the fame.

During the week, Emem Eduok found himself in a transfer tug-of-war between Sarpsborg 08 of Norway and Esperance of Tunisia. The striker was reported to have signed a three-and-a-half-year deal worth €300,000 with Esperance last week but the same player was also said to have earlier signed a four-year deal worth $150,000 with Sarpsborg 08.

No doubt, the difference in personal terms and the signon fees informed the decision of Eduok to consider the Esperance offer. The agents will always want the player to go for the highest bidder. Two agents were involved in the Norway deal while two other agents were in Tunisia for the Esperance talks. The mother, Agnes Eduok, is the player’s manager.

All those involved in the ‘two deals’ put the financial gains ahead of the promising career of the Dolphins FC player. After his trip to Norway, Eduok told newsmen he was set to begin his career in Norway and so his trip to Tunisia was a surprise. The player, his agents and the manager lack proper understanding of the game. If not, why did the agents present Eduok as a player of A & B Academy in Norway? Why did the two other agents travel to Tunis without an understanding of what happened in Norway?

Why did Eduok allow himself to be used by greedy agents?

It is more disturbing that a national team player is involved in such a problem after what Sunday Mba went through after the 2013 Nations Cup victory of the Super Eagles. It was so bad that Mba did not play for any team for about six months. He eventually moved to CA Bastia but he failed to make it to the Mundial. Eduok should have learnt from that. During the week, the NFF boss, Amaju Pinnick, ordered the player out of the Eagles camp to avoid distraction and to enable him to sort out the problem. Though I support his exit from camp, I believe the situation could have been better managed. The Dolphins player and all his agents are guilty in my view. Those who went to Norway used a fake club name and those in Tunisia were apparently aware of the initial trip to Norway. With 24 goals in all competitions for Dolphins last season, much was expected from Eduok in the Eagles but he chose to enmesh himself in a transfer web. It is expected that other players learn from this imbroglio but because of poor exposure, many will still fall prey to greedy agents. This is because most of the players are also very greedy. Very often, it is greedy people that fall into the hands of fraudsters.

Bless you, King Quadri!

O

n December 13, I dedicated this column to a promising table tennis player, Aruna Quadri. I wrote on the need for Nigeria to invest in the player who has prospects to win a medal at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. During the week, Quadri emerged the International Table Tennis Federation’s best player of the year 2014. It was not a surprise because the Nigerian defeated the Olympic champion, world number one player and the European champion last year. He was ranked 237th in February and his exploits lifted him to 30th

by October. It was great for Nigeria that Quadri won the award as the first African. It is a big achievement and I hope those in the corridors of power will take the 26-year-old seriously. He has events lined up for him later this month but as I write, there are no sponsors, and things like this could demoralise the athlete. I congratulate Quadri for the historic feat and hope the National Sports Commission will join the table tennis federation in motivating the ping ponger and prepare him for Rio as an elite athlete. Quadri has further shown that there are great talents in Nigeria.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

10 JANUARY 2015

55

DESTINATION

SATURDAY

Sanctity of Truth

Take in Abuja's sights and sounds aboard a city tour bus

P.42

N150

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2015

SPORT

Fenerbahce deny Emenike’s £10m Spurs link

P.54

Mourinho,

Chelsea

on revenge mission C

Ajibade Olusesan oach Jose Mourinho will be desperate for revenge when Newcastle visit Stamford Bridge for a league tie today.

The Magpies inflicted on the Blues their first defeat of the season when Papiss Cisse’s double ended Chelsea’s 23-match unbeaten run.

Mourinho surely has not forgiven Newcastle for puncturing the invincibility he was trying to build with his team and he will be keen to redeem his bruised ego.

The Special One insisted that his side was not supposed to lose the game, blaming the Magpies’ delay tactics.

“I don't like to lose and blame my players but that wasn't the case today. We were just unlucky,” he said after the match. “They scored the only two times they crossed the halfway line and scored two strange goals because of rebounds. But I am not going to criticise the way Newcastle played. We changed our strategy and played direct, and we almost got the point we deserved.”

Mourinho’s men appear to have lost their steel since that defeat and that was very evident in the way they played during a frenzy of holiday fixtures. They managed just four points from a possible nine, suffering another embarrassing 5-3 defeat at Tottenham in the process.

They are now tied on the same point with rivals, Manchester City at the top of the table and a slip up against

Newcastle could mean surrendering their leadership to the Eastlanders if City secure victory at Everton.

However, Mourinho always gets his job done at home.

His side has been immaculate in front of their fans as all their stumbles have happened away from home with losses to Newcastle and Tottenham and a draw at Southampton.

They have won all their nine matches at the Stamford Bridge which means Newcastle may have no chance in this one.

Things have changed at Newcastle since the last time they hosted Chelsea. The coach that masterminded the victory at the Saint James’ Park, Alan Pardew, has since resigned and the caretaker coach, John Carvar, must be wary of his direct opponent who will guide his home record with passion.

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by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: 01-8541248, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: Laurence ani.