Binder1 march 1, 2015

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SUNDAY Sunday, March 1, 2015 Vol. 2 No. 375

Sanctity of Truth

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AFRICAN QUEEN VIDEO: Tuface stole my joy, cheated me, says Fashion designer, Steve Ray } 18

OUR BOKO HARAM ORDEAL }6

— FREED female captives

lInsurgents seized my wife, baby four days after delivery lHerdsman saved me from terrorists, says Chibok schoolgirl

Wife sets husband ablaze over Valentine’s Day outing

Jonathan wants to ground my campaign - Buhari lExplain Tinubu’s hidden agenda - Fani-Kayode tells APC }4

Obanikoro: President dares APC senators }5

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Nigeria Nigeri votes

2015

es vot

5 201

28

days to go...

I never mocked Stella Damasus, says Helen Paul }9

DAMASUS

2

SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 01.03.15 BODY & SOUL

Fashion advise A bit tired of African Print, fashion designer, Steve Ray, admonishes other designers to move on to other fabrics

}18

POLITICS

Controversies over card readers The raging controversies over the use of electronic card readers in the forthcoming elections have become sources of concern

}31

BUSINESS

Mired tax system Deep-rooted corruption in Nigeria’s main revenue collecting agencies could make mockery of the Federal Government’s avowed determination to raise more revenue from taxes to augment its shrinking income from oil

}23

FAITH

The church in S’East The shortest cut to become politically irrelevant in the S’East is to step on the toes of two major Christian denominations: Catholic and Anglican

}51

SPORT

Okocha: Cabal in the NFF Former Super Eagles captain, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, has raised an alarm that, there is a very strong cabal in the Nigeria Football Federation

}59

SUNDAY

Editorial

Shagari’s exemplary statesmanship

S

econd Republic President, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari clocked 90 recently and although he chose to maintain his usual low profile mien, the Nation literally moved to his Sokoto home, to celebrate a man who left government not richer than when he assumed office, as the nation’s first Executive President in 1979.

Born in Shagari, a small village in Sokoto Emirate, in 1925, young Shehu never envisioned what destiny had in store. He began as a teacher and flashed signs of the future, when he showed some traits of a politician.

By 1954, the teacher in him collapsed, under the weight of politics and Shagari won election into the House of Representatives. The reward did not just trickle in, it poured. From Parliamentary Secretary to Prime Minister Sir Tafawa Balewa in 1957,the ex- teacher soon rose to become a minister.

He was one of the young stalwarts of the Northern Peoples Congress [NPC] and had the backing of the Sarduana of Sokoto and Premier of the Northern region, Sir Ahmadu Bello most of the time, alongside other powerful ministers as Alhaji Inua Wada and Alhaji Mohammed Ribadu.

When the military struck in the first of their numerous plots, Shagari retired to Sokoto to start a new life. There was not much to show that the man was actually one of those whose words could shape happenings around Lagos and beyond Nigeria’s territorial waters.

And to show how humble he was, Shagari actually worked as councilllor in the Sokoto Native Authority. Quite unusual in our climes, for a former minister of the Federal Republic, to come down to the grassroots to function as Local government Councillor. First tier to Third Tier.

It was in that capacity that Gen. Yakubu Gowon fished him out in 1970 and brought him back to the limelight as Federal Commisioner for Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in 1970. From there, he was redeployed to the ministry of Finance.

When Gowon was toppled by Murtala Mohammed in 1975, Shagari also lost his job as minister of Finance. Again, he retired to Sokoto, handing over his future to God. And God did give him a brighter future following Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo’s decision to hand over to a Civilian President.

A constituent Assembly, chaired by Justice

Udo Udoma was set up. Shagari was a member of the Assembly.

In 1978, Shagari was in the conservative National Party of Nigeria [NPN], with no plans whatsoever, to vie for the presidency.

He was an obedient party member with little finance to even control a handful.

Fate had a surprise. Of all the big names in the NPN, Shagari was picked as the party’s flag bearer in the 1979 Presidential elections. And the man stunned everybody, when he chose a greenhorn, Dr. Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme, as his running mate. Many felt he would go for the more experienced Dr. Kingsley Ozuomba [K.O.] Mbadiwe,man of timber and caliber or banking guru, Collins Obi. In choosing Ekwueme, Shagari showed signs of wisdom for when Gen. Muhammadu Buhari and the Beret Boys struck in 1983, it was later discovered that the Vice President went into government as a millionaire and came out a pauper. Justice Uwaifo wondered why such a man should be sent to Kiri- Kiri Maximum prison by Buhari.

Out of government since 1983, Shagari has maintained the gait of an elder statesman, shying away from controversial statements that could set the country ablaze. And he has refused to play politics. A regular attendee to Council of States meetings in Abuja, he remains a bridge builder.

It did not therefore, come to this paper as surprise, that President Goodluck Jonathan and five former rulers made out time to fly to Sokoto to celebrate this bundle of humility.

Shagari played politics of inclusion, that was why the NPN\NPP Accord was reached, in the first place, in 1979. He also honoured his rival, Chief Obafemi Awolowo of the UPN with a National Award, just as he presented a Mercedes Benz car to Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe of the NPP as birthday gift.

Some of Shagari’s party men could have been compromised, that does not in any way diminish his record as a President who came out, justas he stepped in. No houses in Europe and Asia, no oil bloc, no proxy deals.

This is the more reason why we hail this man today, when even local government councillors are building mansions outside our shores while the people suffer. Shagari was a councillor, minister and above all President. Yet he is still free with the masses. He deserves all the attention.

DAILY TELEGRAPH PUBLISHING COMPANY LIMITED Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief

Eric Osagie

Editor n Yemi Ajayi

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3

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4

SUNDAY 1 MARCH, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News Onyekachi Eze and Johnchuks Onuanyim

A

fresh war of words ensued yesterday between President Goodluck Jonathan and the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Maj-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, over alleged attempts by the President to weaken his main challenger’s chances at the March 28 election.

The APC candidate accused Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party of plotting to thwart the electoral process by freezing the bank accounts of his party’s chieftains and grounding their aircraft.

Buhari, in a statement by the spokesman for the APC Presidential Campaign Council, Garba Shehu, described the alleged plot as “bestial and undemocratic.” He said the plot to destabilise the APC and cripple his campaign may be linked to the unsettling global attention on the party after his “triumphant performance” at the United Kingdom’s think tank, Chatham House, on Thursday, despite a futile public protest by a PDP rented crowd in London.

APC in a separate statement by its spokesman, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, described as “untrue” the claim by the Jonathan campaign organisation that the party’s National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was plotting to become vicepresident “through the back door.”

However, the PDP Presidential Campaign Council’s spokesman, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, fired back, calling on Nigerians to ask APC leaders how they acquired their private jets.

Speaking further, the Buhari campaign council said, “In as much as we understand politics to be a game of wits and guts, yet the desperate way and manner the PDP and its henchmen are going is anathema, criminal and inimical to our nascent democracy and ci-

Jonathan wants to stall my campaign - Buhari vilised human behaviour.

Hence, any attempt by anyone to cripple the APC and its presidential candidate will be foiled by the citizens who have taken over the movement of change as symbolised by General Muhammadu Buhari.

“The hint we gather from sources is that the government, through its agents, is plotting to ground aircraft and freeze bank accounts of APC stakeholders. But history has shown that the forces of evil can never succeed against the zeal of men and women of virtue and good deeds.

“Information at our disposal has uncovered the ruinous plan by the Jonathan administration to use the Aviation Ministry and secret arm of the security service to hound and clamp down on members of the APC, by prospecting obnoxious means that would ground private jets belonging to senior members of our party, in order to halt and slow down Buhari’s world-acclaimed phenomenal popularity as President-in-waiting.

“There is also a plot to block or freeze the bank accounts of APC chieftains like Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Rotimi Amaechi (Director General of APC Presidential Campaign Organisation), and other prominent leaders believed to be funding the General’s campaign; and availing him their aircraft for electioneering purposes.”

It noted that private aircraft conveying Amaechi and Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, were in 2013 either prevented from taking-off or landing during crucial political occasions. It said this was particularly during

the “infamous” Ekiti State gubernatorial elections that saw PDP’s Ayodele Fayose “defeating” Governor Kayode Fayemi in a most controversial “military-assisted” contest now known as “Ekiti-gate tape.”

In the party’s statement titled ‘Claim of Tinubu/ Osinbajo oath by PDP outlandish,’ Mohammed said the Jonathan Administration and PDP still do not have any answer to what has now become an epochal moment that has separated the wheat from the chaff.

“Our presidential candidate’s globally-acclaimed outing has presented Nigerians, and indeed the global community, with a choice between a bumbling, ineffective, incoherent, clueless, visionless and incompetent President and an assertive, knowledgeable, dignified, purposeful and principled

President-in-waiting.

“Having failed to discredit that outing with a rented crowd, some of whom confessed to have been paid to carry placards they do not even understand, the PDP and the Jonathan Administration have now resorted to making nauseating claims that are totally untrue, absolutely incomprehensible and nothing but sheer bunkum.”

According to APC, the claim that Tinubu was plotting to ask Osinbajo to resign so he could become the vice-president was the latest in a series of desperate moves by Jonathan and PDP, since Buhari’s emergence as the APC presidential candidate; and the clearest indication yet that they have no answer to the unstoppable momentum of a man of history.

APC said, “They have

thrown everything imaginable at Gen. Buhari, but he has continued to wax stronger and stronger: They said he was not qualified, that he was too old, then they fabricated a medical report of an illness of their own choice, sponsored death wish adverts against him and instituted a myriad of court cases to stop him.

“After they failed to stop him, they went after the election itself, using the PVCs as a tool to launch a campaign for postponement. When they realised that would not work, they came up with the bogey of insecurity in the North-East to force a postponement of the election, hoping they can buy enough time to revive their electoral misfortune.

“With everything working against them, they engaged in a show of shame

at The Chatham House that backfired badly, on the heels of their bare-faced lies that Gen. Buhari was hospitalised in London. The preposterous claim of a secret oath - reminiscent of what they do in their own party - by the apparently ailing spokesman of the Jonathan Campaign Organization, Femi Fani-Kayode, is their latest desperate act.”

Responding to Buhari’s claims, Fani-Kayode said it was interesting that APC had admitted, for the first time, that their leaders own private jets.

He said “It is interesting that the APC has, for the very first time, admitted that some of its leaders own private jets. It will be interesting to know from the APC how these leaders who either occupied pubCONTINUED ON PAGE 62

L-R: Former Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa; President Goodluck Jonathan; Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan and others, acknowledging cheers from PDP supporters at a solidarity rally and endorsement of President Goodluck Jonathan by Arewa Initiative for Peaceful co-Existence in Southern Nigeria on in Asaba…yesterday.

Shagari @90: I didn’t dodge Jonathan, others - Obasanjo Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

F

ormer President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday said he did not dodge President Goodluck Jonathan and other former Nigerian leaders at the 90th birthday celebration of former president, Alhaji Shehu Shagari.

Obasanjo, who stated that he had no reason to avoid Jonathan and other former Nigerian leaders, explained that his inability

to meet up with them at the event was due to a heavy traffic his convoy ran into.

His reaction was contained in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. Aside Jonathan, all living exheads of state such as Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, attended Shagari’s birthday in Sokoto on Wednesday.

Jonathan and the former leaders joined Shagari to cut a commemorative cake to mark the birthday.

While a former head of state and presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, MajorGen. Muhammadu Buhari, was absent as a result of his engagements outside Nigeria, Obasanjo breezed into Sokoto after Jonathan and the former rulers had left Sokoto.

But yesterday, Obasanjo expressed dismay over reports by a section of the

media over his absence, especially the aspect that imputed that he deliberately dodged Jonathan and other ex-heads of state.

The former president described the media reports as unfortunate.

According to him, a heavy traffic which his entourage ran into on that day prevented him from catching up with the Nigerian leaders in Sokoto.

He wondered why the media failed to report the “profuse apologies” he tendered to Shagari when

he eventually arrived the venue of his birthday.

Obasanjo said, “I have read with dismay the imputation of some section of the media to the unfortunate incident of my not being able to be with my colleagues at the birthday celebration of President Shehu Shagari on Wednesday 25 February.

“Leaving Abeokuta at 6:45am and hoping to fly out of Lagos airport at 8:30am to Sokoto, we ran into a very bad traffic hold-up that made me

get to Lagos airport at 10:45am.

“I did not arrive at Shagari’s house until about mid-day by which time the team of my colleagues had left. It is a pity that the media did not report my profuse apologies to both Shagari and other colleagues when I spoke at Shagari’s house.”

The former president noted that he had “no cause to dodge, avoid or snub my colleagues for what we all agreed to do together.”

5

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 1 MARCH, 2015

N924m fraud: ICPC grants suspects bail Emmanuel Onani,

T Abuja

he Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has granted administrative bail to four suspects, who were arrested in connection with alleged unauthorised transfer of a whopping N924.98m from the Federal Ministry of Environment’s account with First City Monument Bank to the accounts of some organisations in four banks.

Operatives of the ICPC had arrested Messrs Adeolu Adeyanju, Usman Omoh Sani, Raphael Orim, and Abubakar Mamman Mutari in connection with the matter.

Another suspect, Murphy Sani, is said to be at large, according to an earlier statement by the ICPC’s Resident Consultant (Media & Event), Mr. Folu Olamiti, announcing the alleged unauthorised transfer.

Speaking with Sunday Telegraph on the case, Olamiti said, “The suspects are on administrative bail,

while investigation is ongoing.”

He said the outcome of ongoing investigations would determine whether they will be charged to court or not.

An earlier statement signed by Olamiti, had read in part: “The suspects include one of the key suspects, Mr Adeolu Adeyanju, Chief Executive Officer of Detwinx Global Services Ltd, whose company allegedly received the sum of N465,193,460.05 in its account with Zenith Bank

which he withdrew on the same day the money was transferred from FCMB. “While Adeolu Adeyanju, who fled to a neighbouring country when the fraud was uncovered, was arrested by ICPC after a manhunt, the other three suspects were arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commisssion and handed over to the ICPC due to an existing collaboration between the two agencies.

“The case was reported to ICPC by the Ministry of Environment via a letter dated

1st December, 2014, following which the commission commenced investigation by immediately freezing the affected bank accounts and inviting, arresting and interrogating several staff of the banks and officials of the ministry. A similar report had also been made by FCMB to the EFCC which later transferred the case file to the ICPC. “The ICPC has so far blocked the sum of N459,789,456.76 in most of the banks they were transferred to. This includes

the sum of N92,490,553.60 transferred to UBA purportedly as tax remittance in an account designated as Federal Board of Inland Revenue Account and which has been returned to FCMB as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) denied operating such an account in UBA. “The sum of N358,695,789.50 has been mopped up and transferred to the ICPC’s Recovery Account to prevent any further diversions while investigation is still ongoing.”

Obanikoro: President dares APC senators Chukwu David, Onyekachi Eze and Anule Emmanuel

I

n spite of the protests, criticisms and petitions trailing Senator Musiliu Obanikoro’s fresh nomination as a minister, there are strong indications that President Goodluck Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party are set to dare All Progressives Congress senators opposed to the bid.

APC Caucus in the Senate had last week mounted a strong opposition against Obanikoro but the PDP leadership in the Senate appears to be working hard to get the former Minister of State for Defence scale the hurdle during the forthcoming screening session on Wednesday.

Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications, Dr. Doyin Okupe, yesterday expressed surprise that the APC Caucus in the Senate was raising dust about the ministerial list sent to the Senate by President Jonathan for confirmation. He described the objections as “purely sentimental and partisan,” stressing that the Presidency would not

Joe Obende Warri

A

n unidentified woman yesterday abandoned a toddler, whose age is believed to be in the range of one to one and half years, at the Effurun newspaper depot close to Warri, Delta State.

Sunday Telegraph learnt that the well dressed woman got to the depot around 11:30am with the boy, stayed around for a while only to later sneak away when nobody was paying any attention.

She left the boy on the muddy ground with no

drop Obanikoro.

“If the APC senators consider the clearance of Obanikoro as minister along party lines, it will be unfortunate. But the President will be ready for whatever decision and direction the senators will take. In the event they do not clear Obanikoro on the basis of partisan sentiments, the President I think will be ready to engage them for reconsideration,” Okupe said.

Obanikoro served as a senator representing Lagos Central from 2003 to 2007. He resigned his ministerial appointment last year to contest for the governorship of Lagos State on the PDP platform but lost to Jimi Agbaje.

Jonathan had on February 16, 2015, forwarded a list of eight persons, including Obanikoro, to the Senate for confirmation as ministers.

But immediately Obanikoro’s name was mentioned, all his political opponents both at home and abroad, rose in opposition to the decision A PDP senator told Sunday Telegraph on the condition of anonymity that the petitions and criticisms from APC would

not stop the Senate from confirming Obanikoro.

“Apart from the opposition coming against him from the APC, there are also some PDP members in Lagos, who said that he was working against the party’s candidate for Lagos State, Mr. Jimi Agbaje.

But remember that this is not the first time such op-

position is coming against a ministerial nominee.

“Don’t forget the case of Abduljelili Adesiyan, the current Minister of Police Affairs; he was highly opposed by senators from his state, Osun, on the allegation that he was instrumental to the death of Chief Bola Ige. But the Senate still confirmed him.

“You see, we have to be very careful whenever people are making allegations against persons nominated for appointments in this country. I am not saying that certain allegations cannot be true but you find out that political enemies are mostly at work during this kind of time. So, you cannot be-

cause of allegations stop the appointment of somebody who has served this country meritoriously in the past,” he cautioned.

Efforts by our correspondent to get a reaction from Senate spokesman, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, proved abortive as his GSM line was not available.

Former Anambra State Governor/Deputy Director General of Jonathan Presidential Campaign Organisation, Mr. Peter Obi (left), with the Emeritus Bishop of Ibadan, His Grace, Archbishop Alaba Job, shortly after the requiem mass for the departed Bishop of Aba, Bishop Vincent Ezeonyia, at the Christ the King Cathedral, Aba

Woman abandons toddler in Warri newspapers depot

clothes on.

Some of the newspaper distributors around told newsmen that none of them could tell why woman abandoned the boy or who she was as they did not take serious notice of her face.

They said most of them

where busy while she was there.

Narrating her account of the incident, one of the distributors who gave her name as Esther said the boy was discovered in a dirty pond by a vehicle ticketing attendant, who claimed to have seen the woman drop the boy in the pool.

“None of us knew what was happening. It was the girl who usually sells tickets to tricycle operators who saw the boy where the woman left him. He was naked then and was

left in the dirty pool of water. It was the woman who owns one of the shops here that bought these clothes for him and somebody else bought this drink for him,” Esther said.

Secretary of the Newspaper Distributors’ Union, Effurun, Akpaitam Aniekan, said the leadership of the union was yet to get a good grasp of the development, saying no one really saw when the child was dropped within their premises.

On efforts being made to

get help for the child, he said, “We have been waiting to see if a police van will pass by so we can call the attention of the police to this. But we haven’t seen any, but the chairman of the estate is making contact with the police.”

The chairman of the community hosting the newspaper market, Commander Rasaki Jerry (retd), eventually took the boy to a police station, where he said the next line of action would be worked out.

“My concern about the child is to take him to the police station so they can hand him over to an orphanage home. For the sake of humanity, a child like this shouldn’t be left to suffer.

“I believe every child deserves the right to be cared for. That is all I have to say. From what I heard, they said the mother came to drop the child and they called upon me as the chairman of the community to take action the way it should be,” Jerry said.

6

SUNDAY

The Sunday Magazine SUNDAY MARCH 1, 2015

Our Boko Haram ordeal,

•10,000 children can’t return to school Ibrahim Abdul and Hassan Jirgi

F

or the 158 women and children released last week by Boko Haram, their experience in captivity is not something they would love to go through again.

During a January 6, 2015 raid on Katarko, 12 kilometres from the Yobe State capital, Damaturu, the terrorists abducted 218 people but freed 158 some days ago. At least 20 people, including some school boys, are still being held.

After taking them into captivity, the insurgents divided them into two groups.

They are those who opted to stay with them and those who were not ready to adopt their way of life.

One of the ex-captives, Saa Abdul, told Sunday Telegraph the insurgents almost shot them dead for refusing to accept the sect’s way of life. She said that after they were split into two groups, the insurgents got angry and started firing indiscriminately everyday.

Luckily for them, she said, nobody was hit by stray bullets.

An ex-abductee, who declined to be named, said they were neither raped nor molested. But she said they simply told those of them who were not interested in Boko Haram’s radical beliefs to get ready to be thrown out.

Apparently, the sect was acting on desperation about how to cater for the large number of hostages, Sunday Telegraph learnt.

Saa said the insurgents got fed up one day and their leaders ordered that the unwilling hostages, whom they called ‘unbelievers’ should be sent away.

She said they were herded out of the Boko Haram camp and abandoned in the forest where a herdsman saw them and led the group to where they boarded a lorry that conveyed them to Gujba Local Government Area.

Mallam Mohammed, the husband of one of the ex-captives, Hajiya Aishatu, told Sunday Telegraph that the insurgents seized his wife and newborn baby, four days after delivery.

Mohammed said they were apprehensive all through the time his wife and child were in captivity.

He stated that the ex-captives were received by security agents, who insisted on screening them before releasing them to their families.

Mohammed said, “In fact from the day Boko Haram took them away, we did not know the health status of the mother and child until after they returned to the community.”

Also speaking, a man, who did not disclose his name, said 21 members of his family were abducted in Katarko but 18 had so far returned. He said the insurgents called them to pick their family members at Woron Yinwa Bill in Gujba Local Government Area.

“We are still appealing to the insurgents to release the remaining women and children in their custody in the name of God,”

Returnees

he stated.

Mallam Musa, father of one of the victims said: “Let me tell you that they were so lucky to get one lorry that conveyed them to Katarko village where we picked them up with the aid of military personnel.”

Musa added that he had reunited with five out of six family members abducted

by Boko Haram.

He said, “I received information that five of my family members among those abducted were released. The other one is among the 29 people that are yet to be released by the insurgents.”

Alhaji Abdulrahman Dauda, a displaced person, confirmed that his wife and six

daughters were among those abducted and later released.

He said, “Two of my boys are still in their custody but I am hopeful that they will soon be rescued.”

Commenting on the situation, Yobe State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ahmed Goniri, was full of joy while speaking with Sunday Telegraph on Friday in Damaturu, a week after the women and children were released by the military.

Goniri, who is the chairman of the state committee on rehabilitation of victims of insurgency, said the abductees were freed three weeks ago but were kept in the custody of security agencies so that

they could undergo screening to ensure that they were indeed captives.

The ex-captives eventually reunited with their families in Damaturu, the state capital.

A young lady, Yagana Bah, who was among the ex-captives, told Sunday Telegraph that each of the 15 widows among them received N50,000, two bags of rice, sugar, noodles and wrappers from the state government.

Another victim, Hajju Maryam, said the other women received N30,000 each and some quantities of rice, sugar, noodles as well as wrappers.

CO NTINUED O N PAGE 7

7

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

Magazine

Alhaji Abdulrahman Dauda, a displaced person, confirmed that his wife and six daughters were among those abducted and later released.He said, “Two of my boys are still in their custody but I am hopeful that they will soon be rescued

by ex-captives

The items were presented by Goniri, who expressed hope that the 20 boys still in the custody of the insurgents would be rescued following renewed operations by the military and local hunters.

The people will be presented to the government for assistance as their houses were set ablaze when the insurgents attacked their village, a community leader, Goni Kali, said.

Chairman of the parents of Abducted Women and Children Association Mallam Goni Mali, said they had yet to receive any form of assistance from the Federal Government. He said they hope the Federal Government will send troops to secure their area.

Borno IDPs return home “God bless the Nigerian troops and our local hunters who dedicate their lives to the security of the country so that citizens can sleep with their eyes closed and doors open.

“Irrespective of the security level presently, we know we must surely one day overcome with the help of God and of course our gallant heroes.” These were the words of the paramount ruler of Mubi emirate, Adamawa State, Alhaji Abubakar Isa Ahmadu, shortly after he was escorted back to his palace earlier retaken from Boko Haram by the Nigerian aArmy.

Before now, there was apprehension and fear of uncertainty as Boko Haram continued to unleash terror on many communities in the North-East. The insurgents annexed territories in the northern parts of Adamawa State like they did parts of Borno and Yobe states. They had captured at least seven local government areas in Adamawa State, even establishing their administrative headquarters in the captured commercial town of Mubi, which they later renamed ‘Madinatul Islam,’ meaning ‘the city of Islam.’

All these have now became history, as

the Nigerian Armed Forces have made it possible for residents to gradually return to their liberated towns and villages. The military had in the last two weeks mounted extensive air and ground raids on the insurgents, forcing the militants to flee.

Sources say that no fewer than 30 towns in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states have been reclaimed from Boko Haram. The towns include Gabchari, Abba Jabari, Gajigana, Gajiram, Damakar, Kumaliwa, Bosso, Wanti, Jeram and Karisungul.

The other towns are Hong, Mubi North/ South, Maiha, Michika, Shuwa, Wuro Gyambi, Gombi, Vimtim, Uba and Bazza, all in Adamawa State; Mafa, GamboruNgala, Malam-Fatori, Abadam, Marte, Monguno and Baga in Borno State as well as Gujba and Gulani in Yobe State, that had earlier been liberated. Despite the successes recorded against the insurgents, Boko Haram is still launching pockets of attacks, particularly in the remote villages where there are no soldiers.

Boko Haram on the run In most of the recaptured towns visited by this reporter, the residents were seen in a joyful mood. On the other side, the soldiers revved up their battle against the insurgents, displacing them from key Adamawa and Borno towns they overran and seized in the past months.

“The military appears to be better equipped and motivated, and appears to have upped its war games,” said Dr. Aliyu Tilde, usually critical of the military’s response to Boko Haram, in an interview.

However, in what appears to be a renewed bid to overwhelm the terrorists, the military, assisted by local vigilantes, known as Civilian-JTF, has cleared almost all the towns ravaged by insurgent activities in Adamawa State.

From Gombi to Hong down to Gulak,

the roads have been cleared of insurgents, with only relics of their vehicles and bikes left behind.

So many bullet shells, small and big, can be found on the road plus signs of shelling of trees, houses, burnt cars, motorcycles and buses of Boko Haram, when their advance was checked by the military, could also be seen.

“Gaskiya (truth be said) Nigerian military is doing a very very fine job here. They have cleared Gombi, Hong, Mararraba, Maiha,Mubi and the entire route of Boko Haram.

“They are now at Michika slugging it out with Boko Haram. Vehicles aren’t allowed beyond Mubi, because the road is quiet. Clearing of hazardous materials like IEDs will be completed before the road is reopened,” Baba Musa a local resident in Mubi confirmed.

Also speaking, a retired military officer, Sgt. Garba Buba said that, “The military is now better equipped and more confident. Its newly acquired T72 tank is devastating. Boko Haram is becoming demystified gradually, it seems.

“There seems to be some change in the composition of the soldiers here. Most of them are 30 and above, truly professionals. The incident of begging for tips from motorists has also reduced drastically. We just hope they have made adequate safety arrangements for keeping the liberated towns safe,” Buba added.

Emir of Mubi Life is gradually returning to Mubi, and other recaptured towns while economic and social activities are beginning to pick up in some areas, though there are some residents that are yet to return.

Spurred by this development, Emir of Mubi, Alhaji Abubakar Isa Ahmadu, appreciated the Federal Government for the restoration of security in his domain and called on his subjects that were displaced by the insurgency to return home.

This is even as the National Emergency

Management Agency continues to assess damaged communities, including Mubi.

Speaking in his palace when he received a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister of Youth Development, Mr, Boni Haruna, the monarch advised his people to be vigilant and law abiding and assist the government towards the maintenance of security in the area. He urged returning residents to give all the necessary cooperation to NEMA’s assessment team and thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for his concern about the condition of the displaced people and his assurances of support to assist them to return to normal life.

The minister said his visit with the NEMA team was to assess the level of peace in the area and to convey the assurances of the President to the returnees.

The minister said the commander of the Army Battalion based in Mubi had assured that the soldiers had cleared the town and made it safe.

Leader of NEMA assessment team, Musa Zakari, said NEMA Director General, Muhammad Sani Sidi, had directed them to carry out the assessment for immediate deployment of necessary support for the returnees to start rebuilding their lives.

The assessment team met with a returnee, Mr Bitrus Yohana, and his family of 10. They returned home after several months of displacement. Yohanna appreciated the Federal Government and the military for the restoration of security in the area. Just like other formerly displaced persons, who are now back and trading in Mubi Market, he called on other IDPs to return home. The team has visited Hong, Maiha, Uba, Mubi and Gombi local government areas.

The Minister and NEMA officials also visited Mubi market where business activities have picked up as well as places like the Adamawa State University and State General Hospital.

Herdsman rescued me – Chibok schoolgirl

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ne of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram on April 14, 2014 has said she escaped by jumping off a truck that was taking her and some of her mates to an unknown destination.

Identified as ‘Saa’ in an interview with FRANCE 24 TV, the 18-year-old female pupil of Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, said she and 275 other colleagues were seized from the school while they slept that night.

Saa, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, said she was sleeping in the Chibok school dormitory when a barrage of gunshots woke her up.

“We came out of our rooms wondering what to do,” she told FRANCE 24. “The Boko Haram people came to the school and the hostel where we were living and they asked us to stay together.”

It was the start of a nightmare that would see the teenage girl escape in the dead of night and hide in a dense forest before she could get help.

The girls were rounded up and made to board a truck, Saa recounted. “They said they were going to kill us if we didn’t do

what they wanted. We were very afraid.”

Boko Haram militants had lined up a number of vehicles to transport the girls and Saa’s truck was in the middle. The vehicles took off towards the Sambisa forest.

That’s when the young woman made a split-second decision that would change the course of her life.

“Some of us decided to jump off the truck,” she explained. “Two girls jumped and I decided to jump too. I told my friend, ‘I’d rather die and my parents will have my coffin than go with the Boko Haram because I don’t know where I’m going.’”

Saa jumped off the truck and her friend immediately followed.

Unfortunately, Saa’s friend hurt her leg while jumping, so the two terrified teenagers spent the night hiding in the forest before Saa could set off the next morning to seek help.

Help came in the form of a shepherd who initially refused to help the teenager, but later yielded. He pushed her injured friend on his bicycle and together they made their way to a nearby village.

Saa was one of the lucky few. Despite

a massive international outcry centred around the ‘Bring Back Our Girls’ campaign, which has drawn political leaders, celebrities and activists from across the world, little is known about the abducted Chibok schoolgirls.

Speaking to FRANCE 24 from Geneva, where she is attending a human rights summit, Saa explained that she fled Nigeria for the United States, where she is currently attending high school.

“The Boko Haram said if we escaped, they would kill us and our families,” said Saa, wearing dark glasses to protect her identity since she fears reprisals against her family.

Ten months after her miraculous escape, with Nigeria heading for a landmark election next month, Saa said she is frustrated by the government’s inaction and failure to address the Boko Haram threat.

The Nigerian government has “already forgotten” about the kidnapped girls’ plight, she said helplessly.

“Now, people are not even talking about the Chibok girls anymore. They have forgotten about them,” she lamented.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

News

Southern Kaduna urged to vote against Sharia Ibraheem Musa Kaduna

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New Commissioner of Police, Murtala Muhammed Airport, Dorothy Gimba (left), and the Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mr. Saleh Dunoma, during Gimba’s courtesy visit to Dunoma in Lagos…yesterday

Air controllers threaten strike over dispute with NAMA •Say equipment failure could have harmed presidential jet’

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Wole Shadare ir traffic controllers under the aegis of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association have faulted the management of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency for reneging on agreement to resolve all labour disputes between the agency and controllers.

The association in a statement signed by NATCA President, Victor Eyaru and General Secretary, Banji Olawode said it has been pushed to the wall and its members should not be blamed for whatever form of protest embarked upon to get the signed agreements actualized, a position described as an indication that they could down tool.

Meanwhile, the management of NAMA has agreed to meet the demands of ATC. At the end of a meeting between the supervising minister of Labour and Productivity, Kabiru Tanimu and the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Aviation, Mohammed Abass, it was resolved that the issues raised were right and timely.

They resolved among other things, the advancement of recently licensed ATC should be on going while letters conveying approval for advancement is concluded within one week.

Some of the members who spoke to Sunday Telegraph on condition of anonymity said as from tomorrow, air traffic controllers would withdraw their services to press home their demands.

The withdrawal of their services could hurt air travel as the workers are saddled with the responsibility of clearing aircraft for departure or landing and the regulation of the airspace.

According to the group, subsequent to the signing of 15-point agreement with management of NAMA on January 18, 2015, with a deadline for implementation of the agreement on or before March 1, 2015, air traffic controllers suspended the proposed withdrawal of their services scheduled for January 19, 2015.

The statement added that events since the agreements

were signed have shown that NAMA’s management was not sincere and can no longer be trusted. It stated that it was disheartening to bring to the notice of the public that in the last two months, the spate of failure of Air Traffic Management equipment in the Nigerian airspace has increased with alarming rate.

They recalled what would have been an incident involving a presidential jet on February 18 2015, when on a final approach to land, the glide slope of the runway 18L in Lagos went off owing to its epileptic nature since January 30 this year.

According to them, despite all these failures in equipment, the controllers still worked daily under difficult conditions to keep the airspace safe. This, they, explained has increased the

workloads of both air traffic controllers and pilots alike, adding that presently, the Instrument Landing System serving the Lagos Runway 18Right have been unserviceable for close to three months while the one serving the second runway 18Left have been epileptic for more than one month.

“The Distance Measuring Equipment collocated with the VOR in Lagos has been out of service for a long time as well and equipment at many airports including communication facilities are suffering the same fate.

“At headquarters and station levels, provision of operational for air traffic control operations which include runway inspection that requires dedicated and specialized vehicles has been unattended to by an air navigation service provider”.

hristians in southern Kaduna have been advised to vote against any agenda that will enthrone Sharia and the Islamisation of Nigeria as being promoted allegedly by Saudi Arabia-based Organisation of Islamic Countries and D8 nations in collaboration with willing cronies in Nigeria.

This advice which was given by Southern Kaduna Pastors’ Forum in a resolution after a special meeting last week, was made available to Sunday Telegraph yesterday.

The resolution which was signed by Bishops Joseph Bagobiri and Zakka Bonet, the chairman and secretary respectively, also advised Christians to ‘’vote against the enthronement of a theocratic state as it is advocated by fundamentalists and people with religiously extremist instincts in their un-repentant commitment to the shariasation of Nigeria.’’

Troops kill more Boko Haram fighters Emmanuel Onani Abuja

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efence Headquarters yesterday, announced that troops undertaking cordon and search mission along Djimitillo/Damaturu Road had killed some Boko Haram insurgents after a fierce encounter.

The disclosure was made by the Director of Defence Information, Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade.

The statement added that in Gulak, the headquarters of Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, which was recently liberated, troops killed many insurgents, who were trying to blow up a bridge, to prevent further advance of soldiers, who were on their trail.

Jonathan gets Arewa solidarity endorsement Dominic Adewole, ASABA

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n a unanimous endorsement yesterday in Asaba, Delta State, the Arewa Initiative for Co-Existence in Southern Nigeria threw its weight behind the re-election bid of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The group, which has its members in 17 states of the federation, including Delta,

Anambra, Enugu, Ondo, Ekiti, Imo, Bayelsa, AkwaIbom, Cross-River, Rivers, Edo, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Lagos, Ebonyi and Abia, said the President represents a united Nigeria.

Led by the former governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, who is the Jagaban Yan Arewa Southern Nigeria and the chairman of the occasion, urged the President to remain unperturbed by the

antic of his detractors who are scheming to unseat him.

Addressing the mammoth crowd of supporters and members of the group at the Cenotaph in Asaba, venue of the ceremony, former Governor Bafarawa, flanked by his campaign Director-General, Senator (Dr.) Ahmadu Ali, the former national chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Chief Dan Nwanyanwu and the host Governor Emmanuel

According to the pastors, Christians should vote for the survival of their values ‘’which accommodate the interest of all irrespective of religious and ethnic affiliations by its irrevocable commitment to principles of fairness, justice, respect for the dignity and inviolability of human life, respect for the family as the cradle of true human society.

The pastors, however, advised Christians not to reduce the forthcoming election to North-South or Christian-Muslim dichotomy, but urged Christians to vote for people who will ensure freedom of conscience and religion as the foundation for the survival of the church. ‘’We plead with Nigerians to conduct themselves responsibly both during and after the election and those with legitimate grudges and grievances emanating from the elections should seek redress through legal means rather than resorting to the un-desirable use of violence,’’ the pastors further advised.

Uduaghan, who referred to the President consistently as mainasara, assured him of massive votes from members of the group.

According to him, President Jonathan had in the past four years favoured the northern part of the country through his educational, health, agricultural giant strides and has evenly distributed political appointments across tribal divide.

It said a soldier died in one of the encounters, while machine guns and rifles belonging to the fighters were captured.

The statement reads: “Troops on cordon and search along Djimitillo Damaturu Road on Friday night had an encounter with a group of terrorists after their hideout was discovered by troops. The fierce fight to dislodge them from the location which is very close to a market, resulted in the capture of machine guns and rifles as well as the death of a number of them.

“Some of the terrorists are believed to have died in the fire that gutted the house where they had made their base. A soldier was killed while another was wounded and is undergoing treatment.

“In Gulak, Adamawa State, troops in pursuit of terrorists caught up with some of them who were in the process of blowing up a bridge to deter troops’ advance. The terrorists were not lucky as they died in their encounter with troops.

The troops are continuing with the cordon and search of the town and environs after overpowering the terrorists. A lot of arms have been recovered in the process.

Troops are also dismantling the terrorists group’s flags hoisted in the towns.”

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

News

I didn’t mock Stella Damasus,says Helen Paul

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ulti-talented comedienne, Helen Paul a.k.a. Tatafo, has dispelled rumours that she mocked Nollywood actress, Stella Damasus, at a recent show.

Paul had come under intense criticism from Damasus fans over alleged uncomplimentary remarks she made about the actress during a show organised by a Lagos-based comedian, Acapella.

Speaking on her weekly programme on Naija FM 102.7 monitored in Lagos on Friday, Paul said the rumours stemmed from a joke

she made at a recent show.

She said the joke was taken out of context by mischievous persons.

Paul, who spoke in corrupted Pidgin, said she never mentioned Damasus in any joke at the show. She said she only made reference to a fictitious character she called ‘Ezeribe,’ whom she claimed to have taken her to a church.

She therefore called on Damasus fans to stop sending hate messages to her via social media.

She said she regarded Damasus as a senior colleague and had no reason to take on her.

INEC: Jega won’t go on leave Onyekachi Eze,

T ABUJA

he Independent National Electoral Commission has again dispelled a rumour that its Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, will leave office before this month’s elections.

Some All Progressives Congress senators had last week alleged that the presidency was planning to force Jega out of office in a matter of days.

But INEC Director in charge of Voter Education and Publicity, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, described it as a rumour when contacted on Friday.

“It is a rumour and we don’t react to rumours.

We are not aware of such a plan,” Osaze-Uzzi said in an interview with New Telegraph on Sunday.

He said all the sensitive materials needed for the polls had been received “a long time ago and we are saying it again that

we have received all the ballot papers for the elections. So we are ready, we are fully prepared for the elections.” On the contentious issue of card readers, Osaze-Uzzi said they can work for eight hours before experiencing their batteries run down.

Besides, he stated that each card reader comes with an extra battery.

“We can charge it. We have generators. So there will be no problem,” he assured.

When asked whether INEC would in future elections demand the medical reports of candidates, the director said the electoral body would not go beyond constitutional provisions.He said, “There is no provision for that.

The only thing the law says is in the case of insanity. It is only when the mental condition of the candidate is in doubt that we will demand for mental fitness,” he explained.

Zonal NLC protests delegates’ list Igbeaku Orji, Umuahia

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o avoid a repeat of what it described as marginalisation of the South-East and SouthSouth zones in the botched national delegates conference of the Nigerian Labour Congress, labour unions in the zone have staged a protest in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, to draw the attention of the authority to correct the anomaly.

The placard carrying unionists who are uncomfortable with lopsidedness in delegates’ allocation to the zone said that the protest came at this time so that the situation would be addressed before the rescheduled conference on March 12, 2015.

Some of the placards and banners read: ‘We say no to disenfranchisement of South-South/South -East delegates,’’ ‘We disagree with Abduwaheed Umar’s handing over to treasurer instead of deputy president,’ ‘We say no to tenure elongation in labour movement’.

Spokesman of the labour unions and Chairman of Public Service Negotiating Council in Abia State, Comrade Chris Okoro, said that the protest was informed by “the need to avoid what happened to us at the national delegates conference where the allocation of delegates was skewed in favour of the north.

He alleged that the national

leadership of NLC under Comrade Abdulwaheed Umar deliberately shortchanged the South-South and South-East zones of labour to frustrate the ambition of Comrade Joe Ajaero, who is a front runner in the contest for the next president of NLC. According to Okoro, it was wrong to give preference to the north in the allocation of delegates in order to actualise the grand design to install Comrade Ayuba Wabba as the next NLC president.

He said that evidence of the marginalisation came to the fore when 525 delegates produced by the Medical and Health Workers Unionwas reduced to five.

Corroborating the grievances expressed in the protest, state Auditor of NLC, Comrade Samuel Onuoha who represented the chairman, Comrade Sylvanus Eyeh said they would fight to ensure that South-East was not marginalized in the NLC. Also contributing, the state chairman of Medical and health Workers, Comrade Uchenna Ezekiel lamented that even after his union had paid N2 million check-off dues it was asked to produce only a delegate.

He said that such gross manipulation of the electoral process would no longer be tolerated in the labour movement, alleged that the present leadership of the union had extended it tenure by 18 months and should be ready for a democratic change.

L-R: Osinbajo in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga; All Progressives Congress (APC) Vice Presidential candidate, Prof. Yemi Ogun Sate Deputy Governorship candidateand Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun at a campaign rally at Abigi, Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, Ogun State

Motorcyclist rapes pregnant corps member Babatope Okeowo,

A Akure

commercial motorcyclist in Ondo State has been arrested by the police for raping a 30-year old youth corps member, a passenger he picked on a trip from Ose Local Government Area to a nearby town.

The bizarre occurrence, according to the police occurred over the weekend when the motorcyclist veered off the road into a bush path where he raped

the hapless corps member, (names with held), who is said to be pregnant.

The corps member was said to have left the “Corpers’ Lodge” located at Ifon, the headquarters of Ose Council Area of the state at about 6:30pm for Imoru where she was having her primary assignment.

Briefing reporters at the Police headquarters in Akure at the weekend, the State Police Commissioner, Mr. Isaac Eke said the suspect, instead of heading straight for Imoru which

Muslim youths condemn Jos bomb blast

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he National Council of Muslim Youths Organisations, Plateau State chapter has condemn in totality last Thursday twin bomb blast that killed many citizens of the state and called on the relevant authorities

to redouble their efforts towards fishing out the perpetrators to bring them to book so as to serve as deterrence to others The Muslim Youth Group in a Press Statement sign State coordinator Sani Suleiman Maigoro and Secre-

tary Ali Yahaya Ali in Jos yesterday also called the National Union of Road Transport Workers in the state and other sister organisations to be extra vigilant about passengers, hawkers and other people who render menial services at the

parks..

The Muslim youths leadership also advised the all youths not to take the laws into their hands or disrupt activities of the security agents in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

is a short distance to Ifon, stopped abruptly and diverted into the bush.

The motorcyclist, identified as Ayeleka, according to the Police Boss, confessed that he forcefully had unlawful carnal knowledge of the corps member, stating that he rebuffed her plea that she was pregnant and should be spared of such unlawful activity.

After the incident, the Police Boss said the corps member reported to the police station from where detectives fished out the suspect, who doubled as a farmer, at house number 4, Olisa Street, Imoru, near Ifon. The suspect has confessed to the crime.

Ayeleka, in an interview with journalists said: “I do not know what came over me when I raped her. I became conscious of what I have done after committing the atrocity.

It is not my fault. I do not know what came over

me. It was so strong that I could not resist the urge to rape her.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner also paraded a 30-year-old man, Soladoye Ige, who was said to be a member of a secret cult and his friend identified as Lekan for allegedly gangraping one young lady in Owo area of the state on February 14.

The prime suspect, Leka, a former student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, was arrested after committing the crime at No 32 Enete Street in Owo. The police said he lured the victim to the house on Valentine’s Day, while his friend was waiting for him and they gang-raped her.

After the duo had allegedly raped the victim, they left the inscription “Blue Angel” on her laps. One of the suspects, Soladoye said he belonged to the Eiye Franternity having been initiated in November last year at a hotel in Owo.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

OPINION Nigeria: Time for a national rethink (1)

Mba Kalu

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imes are so frenetically awash with political activities of a sort never before known. Of all the Heads of State any nation has ever had, none epitomises the true state of his country as Obasanjo does Nigeria. This he inflicts on us by the apparent relevance he still commands. A motor-park tout would take a breather at some point but not this man. It is the height of embarrassment, to say the least that a man that has aggregated double figure years of leadership of a nation should affect such totality of lethal scum vileness.

If there has been, and we know there has been since Independence, bribery and corruption surely under Obasanjo’s watch the rhizome of a monster combination was spawned. He was Petroleum Minister throughout his eight-year tenure. We presume in that period no funds were stolen.

We have not at any point heard a demand for audit of that ministry’s account in that period. How come?

Our leaders are like mushrooms, reared on filth in the dark, emerging into glorious daylight to grow and blossom.

Their original characters never change.

They have placed us in a tangle akin to the last spaghetti out of Pompeii AD79.

It is now impossible to try and predict which way our wind of fortune shall blow.

Postulation on our future now is an allcomers game. The polity is so fired up with unguarded utterances and acts the populace is a dithering mass of fear. If that is not bad enough, that odious constipated orangutan adds to the inferno a shameless brainless childish theatrical of the asininity of a card-ripping caper, thereby

consigning him into the pits of unqualified incorrigibility. It is my suspicion that we have been giving this sad and jaundiced supposed specimen of humanity more attention than he deserves. He constitutes the most singular horrible aberration to national acceptability of leadership; for all he has forever achieved is latrine fiesta.

Then slap bang dunk! A man we all have held in some awe and acclaim, a man that had never spared a chance to square up to Caliban – Wole Soyinka – starts up a fusillade of his own. What biblical rude name was it he called the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria? In spite of all his venomous broadsides at Obasanjo, our erudite friend never thought to hurl close to such horrendous trash at that man. Sixty four reasons not to vote for Jonathan but the man tires after the count of one! What has he now seen in Obasanjo, what travelling political agenda have they cooked up together, for him to pitch his tent at Otta? It is unthinkable that a man of his stature, a Nobel Laureate no less, should elect to voice such fell crudity of the language he is renowned for on no less than the top office holder of his own nation, a man he should ordinarily eulogize!

Soyinka’s command of language is such he could easily show zenithal respect and politeness to the man he elects to destroy.

One surely must wonder what should make this man plummet from Olympian heights of decency to these nadiral depths of abject decrepitude. He certainly impresses that he has need of mental disinfection to kill the bacteria of misguidedness that seems to have precipitated his transshipment into this societal backwater of Obasanjo peer rating.

Tinubu waged a venomous running battle with Obasanjo lost on no one when he

was Lagos State gaffer and Obasanjo was president. Now the trio of Obasanjo, Soyinka and Tinubu, erstwhile dour opponents are transformed protagonists championing the same cause of change from within the same camp of political collusion! Now I ask: who are these three musketeers truly championing for a change? This tripartite alliance is to my mind a most unlikely alliance. These three more than anybody else should remember Ajasin, Awolowo and a score of Yoruba that suffered at the hands of Buhari; the same Buhari who as at this moment remains equanimous, unapologetic and unrepentant. This calls for thought.

The Yoruba do not have short-memory as a strong suite.

There are so many speculative thoughts on what might happen in Nigeria if one or the other candidate lost the presidential election, plenty enough to fill the Grand Canyon. The common supposition is the eruption of violence of an unprecedented dimension. The incumbent’s detractors have their excuses for rejecting him, including one-plus-sixty-three of Soyinka’s. Those that think Buhari will straighten out the corruption issue forget their erstwhile abhorrence of his bestial draconic hard handedness of years gone by. I would be the last to insult Soyinka by deeming him dimwitted not to know that the change this country needs is not a change from a Jonathan to a Buhari. The man has more brains than slouch behind such a mundane supposition. Soyinka knows more than anybody else that the change Nigeria needs is from its present federated status to a confederated status, with a Constitution to suit. Olusegun Obasanjo knows it; and so does Bola

Ahmed Tinubu. In the absence of that ultimate desired change, this trio seeks a different change; and there the real déjà vu rears its head.

Tinubu himself knows a thing or two about “Toronto” I think. What was the name of the original “Toronto” anyway? I suppose you could say that what we have now serves us a precedential talking point, but Soyinka of all people is not talking, even in spite of the endless convolutions and falsehoods of the present “Toronto”.

Yet that is not the déjà vu. We have at this moment a second Katsina State indigene being championed by Obasanjo. Yar’Adua was a sick man when Obasanjo made him his heir apparent. Virtually every soul knew it but perhaps not that his sickness was terminal. Obj recently denied knowing that Yar’adua was sick. Not so long ago Soyinka qualified Obasanjo’s status and degree as a liar. Not so long ago, health became a talking point about Buhari. That was pooh-poohed.

Jonathan was a relatively obscure politician when Obj attached him to Yar’adua. Now we have another obscure running mate attached to Buhari! It is hard not to conjecture that these Yoruba linchpins want the presidency back west!

There then lies the déjà vu. Poor Buhari must be gullible to think the Yoruba have forgiven him. The dirk, the dagger and the kris they wield must be honed and barbed; why else this unlikely alliance? Isn’t this the change these vociferous elements, particularly our dour trio, want? Yet when the chips are down, it is doubtful that they will come out breathing fire like dragons.

Mba Kalu writes from Ohafia, Abia State

Yes, I can vouch for Jega!

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Habib Aruna ttahiru Jega, professor of political science and the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, was supposed to address a world press conference at 5p.m on Saturday February 7, 2014; just a week to the all-important elections.

The country waited with deep breath for hours for the media parley to hold!

It eventually took place six hours after and Jega, a long respected former president of the Academic Staff of Nigerian Universities, took the stage to confirm what had been trending many hours before then - that the much awaited elections would have to be postponed.

The INEC boss told a surprised nation that the elections would be shifted because the security chiefs could not guarantee security on the planned day.

He said the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd), in a memo addressed to him, asked for a six-week postponement to enable the military to deal decisively with the insurgents ravaging the northeastern part of the country. It was implicitly clear from the tone of Jega’s voice that the military gave him no option than to call off the polls. They made him realise that the voters and electoral officials would be vulnerable if the elections went ahead.

Now, for a country that was told few weeks ago in faraway London by the NSA that the elections should be postponed to enable INEC to take care of the problems occasioned by poor distribution of Permanent Voter Cards, to now be informed

that the military would need six weeks to chase away the terrorists from our land and therefore elections should not take place, leaves much to be desired.

All the same, Jega was on the hot seat and expected to justify the extension to apprehensive Nigerians who had made preparations for the polls. The INEC boss tried as much as possible to convince the people that the security of lives and property was as important as holding elections and that we would have to give the security agencies the benefit of the doubt since, according to him, they are in a better position to know the situation on ground.

From his body language, however, it was clear that the INEC boss was boxed to a corner to take the decision. It was clear that he had been blackmailed and as some have rightly noted, ambushed to take a decision that was clearly against his wish. The military, in a democracy, is supposed to be subservient to the dictates of the civilian leadership and not dictate the rules; the military is supposed to take directives and orders from the elected representatives of the people and not to unconstitutionally circumvent laid down procedures; and more importantly, the military is not supposed to set a timetable for elections as we are now seeing. Their duty is to secure the country from external aggression.

The police are indeed responsible for security before, during and after elections and not the military. It is an aberration for soldiers to be patrolling polling stations on Election Day. Well, some might argue that it is part of our political evo-

lution, but we also know that too much involvement of the military in politics may turn out to be counter-productive.

The military should and must not be the body setting election dates! What happens if the military fails to crush the terrorists in six weeks? Are they going to ask for six more weeks? This is where the danger lies! Hence, the need to listen to those who have been crying foul that the move was to slow down the momentum that has been on the side of the opposition All Progressives Congress.

And expectedly, 24 hours after the postponement, those ostensibly behind the shift went to town with calls for Jega to be sacked. This is since, according to them, he has failed to perform. This group led

by Yinka Odumakin and the so-called Southwest PDP elders led by Chief Bode George, said they had lost confidence in the INEC boss and that he should be shown the red card.

Indeed, more than casual observers who saw the handwriting on the wall and that the next script would be calls for the sacking of Jega, told President Goodluck Jonathan to come out clean on the renewed call for Jega to be sacked.

That was exactly what the President did during his chat with the media when he restated his trust in the capacity of Jega to conduct free and fair elections. It was apparent that Jonathan waved off pressure from his party to sack the INEC chief, knowing fully well that it would be unacceptable to both Nigerians and the international community.

My intervention therefore with this piece as a former student of the envi-

able professor, is to come out and vouch for his integrity and dedication to the Nigerian project. When his name came up before the 2011 elections as a possible replacement to Prof. Maurice Iwu, I never hesitated in telling who cares to listen that the man would make a better electoral umpire than most of his predecessors. I, indeed, said on TV and radio programmes that Jega would not disappoint Nigerians. His appointment was a plus for the President and he has not disappointed, given the global applause that trailed the 2011 polls.

Four years after, it is gratifying to note that Jega has surpassed our expectations and is even willing to do more this year.

There are however many landmines on the way for credible and transparent elections. The postponement without a doubt will affect the outcome since elections are never an event but a process. It is now left for stakeholders to be pragmatic and look at the bigger picture. The country cannot afford another postponement.

The Jega I know would want to leave behind an INEC that is well structured to ensure that subsequent elections in Nigeria are credible; he would want to make sure that INEC is truly independent; he would want an electoral body that is also financially autonomous; and he would want to see an INEC that Nigerians can at any point in time be proud of. That is the Jega I know; that is the erudite professor that taught us ‘State, Society and Economy’ during my final year class at the Bayero University, Kano.

•Aruna, a journalist writes from Ikorodu, Lagos

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Sunday Mail MARCH 1, 2015

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

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

Nigeria’s smelly cities

Dear Editor, One thing that anyone coming into Nigeria will notice easily is the stench that pervades many neighbourhoods – rich and poor. No neighbourhood is free of the stench from canals, sewage ponds, cesspools, septic tanks and many other unclean channels. If you take your time to observe, you would find that the stench is unmistakable. In many advanced countries, provision is made for centralised underground sewers which carry waste all the way to places where they are treated and converted to useful materials for other purposes. In Nigeria, septic tanks are dug indiscriminately while the authorities look the other way. There is no standard for the dimension and location of septic tanks and soakaways.

Preye Davies Abule Egba, Lagos

Return sanitary inspectors

Dear Editor, This is an urgent appeal to the governors of the 36 states and chairmen of the 774 local governments nationwide to return sanitary inspectors. These inspectors greatly contributed to the cleanliness of the environment in years gone by.

However, you find that these days, people don’t care about keeping a clean environment. African folklore teaches us that our ancestors cared so much about cleanliness. I also urge the education authorities to make the teaching of sanitation a compulsory subject in school. It should also be part of Social Studies so that every citizen can be brought up to appreciate the need to keep a clean and healthy environment. Health is wealth, they say. Ours shouldn’t be an exception.

Chike Obiorah Lagos

UI’s wasted chance

Dear Editor, If one attended University of Ibadan, they wasted their money and time. How about that for a start? UI, as the oldest institution of higher education in Nigeria, does not have a worldwide reputation worth anything except the pride and enlarged ego by those that attended the university.

When the top 1000 colleges and universities in the world were catalogued a few years ago, UI did not make the list; but one South African institution managed to make the cut.

Nigeria, as the most populous black nation in the world, has yet to earn respect and collateral value nurturing anything to worldwide standards. It is about a dance in the square hi-5ing with ‘beer parlour chants and cheers,’ while serious nations are placing their institutions on enviable lists and using such to attract investments and grants. UI has not attracted say $10m or N2bn in any given year in research grants. If it has, let it say when and for what purpose. How come UI leadership did not cash in on Wole Soyinka’s Nobel Prize status and sought to create an institute in his name and use the ‘NP’ to attract literal reputation to the university and in turn revenue? No university in Nigeria has a Nobel Prize winner on its faculty. Am I missing something?

Ejike Okpa Dallas, United States

Rising cost of goods Dear Editor, While Nigerians have been busy with issues around the coming elections, they have been oblivious of the fact that manufacturers are adjusting the prices of their goods and services upwards. I know of a fact that from March 1, many manufacturers have directed their sales staff to effect higher prices of their products. Their customers are not being told of this development. My findings showed that the price hike is occasioned by the high dollar/naira exchange rate. There are already signs that we may be in for another round of fuel scarcity soon. Why can’t our leaders find creative solutions to our economic problems?

Silas James Lokoja, Kogi State

Intolerance, the bane of the fight between a bus conductor and passenger in Lagos city.

Politicians are at it again Dear Editor, In the build up to the 2011 general elections, highly placed politicians in the country were reported to have made several inflammatory statements that threw the country into chaos immediately after the presidential election.

And in that circumstance, unemployed and misguided youths were unleashed on the streets to cause mayhem and wantonly destroy lives and property.

The six years old Boko Haran insurgency in the country is believed to had been boosted by the unguarded utterances of our politicians.

It is another electioneering campaign season and Nigerian politicians who seem not to learn any lesion from the past are at it again.

Despite the agreement signed by the presidential candidates of the leading political parties and some governorship candidates in some of the states to ensure peaceful conduct of the election, what has been going on in the social and mass media is exchange of fire, with hate materials either as campaign adverts or press statements by the media organs of the political parties. PDP and APC are the guiltiest.

The two leading contenders in the presidential election, President Goodluck Jonathan and General Muhammadu Buhari as the leaders of their parties; must bear in mind that they cannot be absolved of blame in the event of any of their members making statement that is capable of throwing the country into chaos. The two of them are hereby called upon to restrain their members.

Ndem Akpan Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

ABUAD fees I am humbly using this newspaper as a medium to express my concern as a student over the hike of clinical students school fees at Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti. In 2013 my prestigious university increased the school fees by 25% thus affecting the population of new students and forcing parents to further their children dreams of attaining quality education overseas. On 20th February 2015, my school released the schedule of fees for 2014/2015 and it is quite sad they hiked the fees from 1.7m naira to a whooping 2.6m Naira.

I am a Nigerian, i believe in an egalitarian society where every child is entitled to free and quality education being the fact that it is stipulated in the 1999 Constitution Chapter 2 sec 18 and in the execution and attainment of this objective increment in school fees is not the way forward. There are some schools in Nigeria that upon expensive school fees quality education is yet to be actualised and most school boards are too penurious in nature to afford qualitative and quantitative staff members.

Please i hope this message gets publicised in your newspaper gazette. We as Afe Babalola cannot keep silent while we watch this outrageous circumstance take place every new semester and the sad part about it is we are often forced never to express our mind to the public but I as a student i have had it. We cannot sit back and watch a school that regard its Founder and the School a non- profit organisation because this is a far cry and the sooner we get our voices heard and the message passed across to the public to the better. May the Almighty Allah continue to bless this publication and Nigeria.

Abidemi Ejibunu, Lagos

Blacks and numbers game

Dear Editor, It is what it is. Economics is an exercise in numbers. Recognise how to play the number game and leverage that, and see one’s situation improve. If the annual consumption of black folks in US is in excess of $1t, and yet black folks own less than two per cent of United States commercial enterprises and hardly financial institutions worth $1bn, and less than four per cent of blacks that teach in colleges and universities are tenured, there is a need to redirect and rethink the approach. What are we teaching folks such that they only want to go get a job and nice corporate title? Come to think of it, more blacks hold PhDs than most other ethnic groups. It makes one wonder. If equal

opportunity accorded and afforded as a result of education is the case, how come there is disappointingly, a different outcome?

Education ought to prompt and prepare one to look inward for better outcome and heavy lifting, and not for the glamour of hoisting and holding paper qualifications. No need to split hair on obvious facts. What needs to happen is redirect and rethink of how and why we give others our resources only to settle for peanuts. No other ethnic group does that. Self-preservation is an undisputed first order of business. Master and embrace that and see a sea of positive change happen Ejike Okpa, Dallas, United States

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Moments

L- R: Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo; Chairman Northern Elders Council, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai; member, Amb. Hassan Adamu; Minister of Transport, Alhaji Idris Ibrahim and Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, during a declaration of Endorsement of the candidacy of President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 Presidential election in Abuja…on Thursday

Senator Oluremi Tinubu (middle) with members of All Progressives Congress (APC) Arewa Community in Lagos Central Senatorial District during their visit to Oluremi in Lagos…on Friday

L-R: Prince Samuel Adedoyin; Erelu Ojulape Ojora; founder, Centre for Values in Leadership, Prof. Pat Utomi; Alhaja Kuburat Okoya and host Chairman, Eleganza Group, Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, during 20th CVL lecture, titled ‘Productizing growth The challenge of public private partnership’ to mark Okoya’s 75th birthday in Lagos…on Thursday

Royalty of Baptist Girls Academy, Gbagada, Lagos, during their Inter-House Sports Competition on Friday.... PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

L-R: Managing Director, AFRINVEST, Mr. Ike Chioke; Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane; Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu; Dean, Lagos Business School (LBS), Dr. Enase Okonedo; High Commissioner, High Commission of Canada, Mr. Perry John Calderwood and Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Marcello DiFranco, at a dinner with Elumelu organised by the LBS Breakfast Club in Lagos…recently

L-R: Director-General, Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate, Mrs. Nellie Mayshak; Director, Pensioner Support, Mrs. Roz Ben-Okagbue; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Representative of the President, Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Mr. Musa Dallato and Director-General, Budget Office, Dr. Bright Okogu, at the inauguration of the Pensioners Call Centre in Abuja…on Thursday. PHOTO-NAN

L-R: Director, Federal Ministry of Information, Mr. Peter Dama; Police Public Relations Officer, Compol Emmanuel Ojukwu and Coordinating Spokesperson, National Information Centre (NIC), Mr. Mike Omeri, during a press conference on the state of the nation in Abuja…on Thursday

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Ultima Limited, Mr. Olufemi Ayeni; Pricing and Analytics Manager, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Shuaib Abubakar; Prof. Akinsola Omotola; Winner, N50 Million Naira, Ms Omotola Akinsola; General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Richard Iweanoge and Senior Manager, Ms Emamoke Ogoro, at the official presentation of cheques and cars on ‘Who Deserves To Be Surprise’ in Lagos…on Tuesday

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

National confab report not with us - Reps Philip Nyam Abuja

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he House of Representatives said yesterday that it had not received the report of the National Conference convoked by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014.

Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Zakari Mohammed, stated this in an interview with Sunday Telegraph in Abuja.

He said the House had not seen the report and could not comment on it until it is officially submitted to the lower chamber.

Mohammed, however, confirmed that a clean copy of the amended 1999 Constitution had been forwarded to the President for assent.

The House had last year ex-

pressed its readiness to look into the report after Jonathan had noted while receiving the report from the committee that he would forward it to the National Assembly.

Also confirming the nonreceipt of the confab report, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Hon. Albert SamTsokwa, said members had not seen the report.

He added that the President had during his recent campaign noted that “he will submit the report to the next assembly.” This means the seventh House is no longer expecting to receive the report.

This is a sharp contrast to the President’s earlier promise that he would forward the report of the confab to the current National Assembly.

INEC trains 12,000 ad hoc staff in Taraba Sabiu Mustapha JALINGO

T

he Independent National Electoral Commission in Taraba State has trained over 12,000 ad hoc staff for the upcoming general elections.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Alhaji Ahmad Makama, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Saturday in Jalingo.

Makama, who said the commission had achieved 93 per cent distribution of Permanent Voter Cards in the state, noted that it is fully prepared for the polls.

The commissioner also disclosed that elections would be conducted in all parts of the state because of the current security report available

to the commission.

He, however, said there were no plans to conduct elections in internally displaced persons camps in the state.

“The commission is fully prepared for the forthcoming election in the state.

We have already received enough non- sensitive materials and distributed to electoral officers in various local government councils with the instruction to further distribute to various wards,” he said.

Makama noted that the commission planed to ensure that presiding officers and assistant presiding officers were at the various voting points before 8:00 am on election dates to ensure timely take off of the process.

PDP urged to reconcile with Obasanjo

Babatope Okeowo Akure

A

political leader in Ondo State, Chief Joshua Adewole yesterday appealed to the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party to reconcile with former President Olusegun Obasanjo in the interest of the party.

Also, he said it was disturbing to be thinking of interim government 16 years after the beginning of the fourth republic, instead of working out how the nation can have free and fair elections.

Adewole said since the contributions of Obasanjo to the country and the PDP could not be wished away, it is in the interest of the party to settle the differences with the former President. He added that the crisis rocking

state chapters of the party would have been settled if Obasanjo had intervened to the matter.

According to the U.S based businessman, interim government is unconstitutional and it would not be in the interest of democracy or the country to contemplate it at this point in Nigeria’s history.

Adewole who is known as ‘Joshua of our time’ said “at the moment our country is in critical situation. It requires all and sundry to wake up and work. It is a misnomer for anyone to see the coming election as do or die affair. Nigeria’s democracy as we know it is largely patterned along the American democracy. Politics is about what yor can do for the people.

“The PDP has ruled Nige-

L-R: Vice President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Issa Aremu; human rights activist Femi Falana; leader, National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Ayo Okpadokun; Yemisi-Ransome-Kuti and others at a solidarity rally by the Nigeria United for Democracy, in Lagos… yesterday.

PHOTO:TONYEGUAYE

Wife sets husband ablaze over Valentine outing

Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

A

commercial bus operator, Mr. Abimbola Olusegun, is now on danger list at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, AdoEkiti, where he is receiving treatment for severe burns to his body after he was set ablaze by his wife, Bukola, on February 14, this year.

It was gathered that Abimbola incurred the wrath of his wife over his alleged refusal to take her out on Valentine’s Day. IOlusegun, an indigene of Ado-Ekiti, who lives in Idolofin area of the town, had returned home at about 6pm on the said day to meet his wife fuming over his failure to take her out on Lovers’ Day. Neighbours said they heard the couple exchanging hot words before tragedy struck.

A neighbour, who craved anonymity, said: “It was around midnight that the

husband suddenly ran out from his apartment, crying for help. He raised the alarm that his wife had set him ablaze. He was burning and was battling with the fire his wife had put on him. We had to rush out to rescue him by quickly getting water and pouring it on his body. But for the prompt intervention of some of us, he would have been burnt to ashes.

“He was thereafter rushed to the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital where he is still being treated. We also reported the incident at Ado Central Divisional Police Station from where policemen promptly came to arrest his wife.”

Olusegun could not speak when our correspondent visited him in the hospital yesterday. Almost all his entire body was bandaged.

An employee of the hospital said the primary target of Abimbola’s assailant may have been his penis as the organ was badly burnt.

The victim’s mother,

Madam Folake Olusegun, told Sunday Telegraph that all her son could say before passing out at the hospital was that his wife was angry that he did not take her out on Valentine’s Day. She said that this caused a serious misunderstanding which made his wife threaten to set him ablaze.

“My son said he dared his wife, saying she could not do that. Suddenly, she poured petrol on him and also threw the fire on him,” she said.

The woman said further that his son’s wife had been accusing him of cheating on her and that she had been reporting this to his family for sometime.

Meanwhile, a relative of Bukola’s, who spoke anonymously, said she could not have set her husband ablaze.

Defending the suspect, she said: “I know her very well. She may have been upset for not being treated well by her husband on that day, but she couldn’t have gone to the

level of setting the husband ablaze. May be it was just some kind of an accident in the house. Bukola isn’t really capable of committing such terrible act.”

The spokesman for the state police command, Mr. Albert Adeyemi, who confirmed the incident, said Bukola had confessed to committing the crime.

He said she confessed further that she set him ablaze because she was angry that her husband did not celebrate the Valentine’s Day with her.

“According to the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO), Ado Central Divisional Police Station, the woman set her husband ablaze because he didn’t not celebrate Valentine’s Day with her or take her out for fun during the celebration,” the PPRO said.

He gave the assurance that the suspect would be charged to court upon the completion of investigation into the matter but refused to allow her speak to journalist.

Ndigbo must bounce back, says Umeh Tony Okafor Akwa

T

he National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance , Chief Victor Umeh, yesterday predicted that the Igbo race will again take their pride of place in Nigerian political space.

He said if the resolutions of the national conference are implemented, the Igbo would be repositioned in the country, structurally.

Umeh stated this when

the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees adopted him as the Union’s preferred candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District election of March, 28.

He noted that the political fortunes of Ndigbo nosedived after the civil war, saying it was after the war that the powers that be, reduced the region to an insignificant minority in the scheme of things in the country.

The APGA boss said because of this Ndigbo were

relegated to the background and marginalised, including in areas of state and local government creation.

He observed that virtually every ruler of the country before 2007 was a soldier who fought against the Igbo during the Nigerian Civil War, adding that for that reason most policies were skewed against Ndigbo.

He expressed hope that the out-come of the National Conference would address the injustices meted out to Ndigbo over the years.

He, therefore, called on Ndigbo to be wise by electing impeccable people of impeccable character as their representatives at the National Assembly where the resolutions of the National Conference would be finally resolved.

NULGE, in a motion moved by Comrade Cosmas Nwafor, had adopted Umeh saying the union had implicit confidence in him based on his antecedents, especially his penchants in Igbo affairs.

SUNDAY

Fashion

Sizzle in short shorts 22-43

Bed, Work & Life

Hour of decision!

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Body Soul SUNDAY, MARCH 01, 2015

Tuface stole my joy, he cheated me -Steve Ray

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

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Pg. eneral Mohams?

G ), C P (A s es gr ming election gressives Con of the All Pro for support in the forthconue of the event e at id d e n ca al gn ti & Din asions e, ve Wine o, the presidenwent to London to campai t James’ Squar r all occ presir in o Sa ou .f , . on 10 . h o k i, to N a ar d refuse madu Buh y he chose to appear at Silver O that he could he had earlier I wonder wh the Chatham House, whenigeria. Was his party afraid oke very well W organised by nised for candidates in Nr him to answer? And he sp elopment in ev d ga fo of or t lt es en cu at fi m cause is assess dential deb tions that would be dif ry honest in h ent and his country just bewould s m n be asked ques ouse! I think he was also ve rn ia ic ve it ian pol sitting go at Chatham Hidn’t try to run down the throne. A very few Niger e d e th H . on t ia si dience Niger Nigeria, his au opportunity to he wanted anonent where he did well! bers of his entourage from ever, do not boast of vour on credit an opp ry is that apart from mem en of voting age who, how vote in his fa and My only wor prised of men and wom st the much sought after Egusi f s oup m ca co ot g l n in al n h a in ca at m e ey l in th deter b i tte r ! Therefore, th ot partake in Nigeria’s PVC who would ny another favour from the le p eo p to B is message ? Or he went to curr the D-Day. e rather sell h t en d si re rs Why would heria in the ext dispensation be em to their family m who rules Nig country? uld influence k why they wouldn’t returntes! co a or sp at ia th D e vo as th I d li in d va ns an r people of ia ce that Niger eria) choi ce with thei Someone said te for their (Diaspora Nig e candidates of their choi ld have gone to London n u vo ro co to th C elections d AP uld en in Nigeria of the general Pg. 50 so that they cointo my ears that Buhari an t en ve li em to on ia tp er Nig as the pos ispered h gn w ai n p so m er aca p h r C igious Another nue thei ed at the prest budget. funds to conti to source for crease in their campaign -Buhari group who gather ese protesters wouldn’t meant an in wed, as the the anti presence of th Then, there w protest against him. The protesters, when intervie orse, e w to r th te se of at ou e som ake m tham H n Art big an issue if they were protesting. To m parently a rent-aildre e ets o to h e en C be h e T d ap hav m knew not why what is now Cl u b u o r didn’t say theyaimed to have organised r a fee. p vgo ) P T a lady who cl e organises such crowd foples Democratic party (PD ed that red ruling Peo covertly stag crowd, said sh e (1 ) s o ointing at theoodluck Jonathan’s party r p e ar rs ge n Fi if President G Nigeria.

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Contents 01.03.2015 COVER I have never been afraid of anything but human beings.

That is my weak point and that is where I am mostly hit

-Steve Ray

} 18-19

BEAUTY Educate yourself and do your research before you buy any product

FASHION

There are shorts and there are SHORT SHORTS! From the playful chic to daring sexy, shorts are unbiased with personal style

T h e Te a m Juliet Bumah (Editor)

Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent) Wole Adepoju

} 22&43

Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics)

MY PASSION I love my entire body because it is all part of the Chinonso Young brand

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

} 48

} 21

GLAM DUDES To maintain a stylish look, coordinate the lapel pin or flower with clothing and avoid wearing too many other accessories

} 44

Associates

BED, WORK & LIFE My Kiki, You don’t know how jealous I felt the first time I saw you beside my brother. Such is life. Love has a way of healing every wound, it also has a way of causing problems for man. I loved yo u , will always do...”

} 20

Helen Paul

Eyitayo Aloh

i By ee

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

How Tuface stole my joy, Renown couture designer, Steve Ray was born Raymond Stephen Assim. He has a rich clientele that includes Senator Florence Ita-Giwa. In this chat with DEBORAH MAKOJI, the Cross River State-born designer discusses fashion and more When did you know that you were going into fashion design?

Fashion design is something that I started from childhood. I started while in primary school till I got into a tertiary institution.

It is a natural talent. I never studied fashion; it is an inborn thing that flows in the family. I basically learnt it from my mum although everybody in my house is a fashion designer; but I am the most creative. I have had a strong passion for fashion since childhood. Because growing up was so mysterious, my mum saw me as a weird child that always did things differently from every other person in the house.

Briefly tell us about your background.

I am from Cross River, and my mum is from Lagos. I am the second in a family of four children. I studied Fine Art/ Applied Art at Yaba College of Technology and I’m now doing what I know how to do best. I have been doing a lot of things from my childhood, things that have to do with creativity, theatre and all that.

What was growing up like?

I actually launched my label in the year 2000 and since then, I have been up and doing. Steve Ray was launched on Worker’s Day in 2000. Growing up was not easy though, but I am a very curious person, always positive but a bit sensitive, I don’t like over stepping beyond my boundaries and being noticed. I like to be behind the scenes. So many people complain that they have heard a lot about Steve Ray and that the name rings a bell but knowing the person behind the name is a problem.

As a designer, what kind of clothes do you specialise in?

For area of specialisation, I can do a lot of things but I don’t go into corporate wear because it is a different market on its own when it comes to the industry. But I love the couture, bread and butter iceberg, evenings and costuming.

What do we expect from you this year?

I am cooking up something new. I am trying to see what I can bring into the fashion trend and I am working on how I can enlarge market sales through mass production of what people can readily afford in the market. I know it is not easy because you need huge investors to do that, but in this country, it is not encouraging because of lack of investors. I am always grateful to God for His support.

What inspires your various creations?

As a person, I discovered myself right from when I was eight years old. I do things that I love doing and want people to make comments. Inspiration comes naturally and I think the love for doing things in an extra ordinary way inspires me a lot too. The things around me also inspire me, like pictures, environment and references from today’s trend. I don’t like doing things the way other people do. So, I try to create my own trend.

Who are your popular clients?

I have a lot of them such as Mercy Johnson, Senator Florence Ita Giwa, managing directors of banks and all that. It restricts me to just celebrities but right now, I am thinking of going into massive mass production. I do costuming basically. I have costumed a lot of celebrities, beauty queens and all that. The first celebrity that my job pushed out was Tuface Idibia.

I costumed his video (African Queen) far back in 2003. That was a major job for me. I also costumed Ene Lawani, Miss Nigeria 2004. I costumed Mama G video and I design a lot for carnivals yearly like Calabar Carnival, Abuja Carnival and I consult for other states.

Who do you look up to in the fashion industry?

I think I have to be a bit critical about this.

The fashion industry in this country is a bit limp;

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Body&Soul

cheated me -Steve Ray looking up to anyone here is discouraging, I am sorry to say that. When I was growing up, Mon Ami was the first man I met in the industry that really spurred my morale and he encouraged me. The first job I did then went into Ovation magazine and it was well appreciated. I was amazed and that was how I was prompted to come out. Mon Ami is a Nigerian designer that I give kudos to but for now, there is none.

Outside Nigeria, I love MK, Versace and late Alexander McQueen since I am also a couture designer.

What is your personal style?

My personal style is classy, chic, weird and sophisticated.

Are you married?

I am not married, been in a relationship that broke up and I am now on my own; but I am not willing any more (laughs).

I am so relieved now because I used to think it was a final bus stop once you settle down in marriage. I am very religious and skeptical about raising a child in a home where both are struggling to make things happen so I would rather stay by myself than play games. I have a child, a boy, and I am happy to have him. I am settled. It is my life and I definitely cannot pretend to be who I am not. My child is a year plus and I don’t want to talk about the mother.

In what way did your background influence what you are doing now?

I would say the negative part of it did influence what I am doing now. I have never said this in public though, when my dad and my mum got separated, they are still alive but I am closer to my mum than my dad. As a child, I got threatened by my future when they got separated but being a very sensitive and a Sagittarius person, I was so calculative that after my primary school days, there was no money for mummy to take care of us the way she would have loved to. We all had to support her and that was where my curiosity came into the aspect of sewing. Then, if she wanted to design anything, I would sit down and sketch for her. Her clients would reject whatever she proposed to them and settle for mine. That was how the whole thing started. At a point, she started asking me how she would achieve a particular design. I used my female friends as my models and dummies to practise my creativity level too.

How do you feel when you see your clients in your design?

Sometimes, I get confused. I am not always contented with what I do but when I see people appreciating it, I console myself that I actually did well. But I don’t feel great about it because there is this feeling that I can do better. Every time I see African Queen video being celebrated, even though Tuface Idibia denied me of my rights in the video, I still feel happy till date over that project.

What do you mean when you say you were denied of your rights?

Yes, I was denied of my rights because after all I did, Tuface could not celebrate me as the designer behind that video. Even his wife, Annie Macaulay, was my model back then in 2003. Tuface stole my joy, he cheated me. There are so many others, I don’t just want to mention them because they are prominent people in the society now and so they tend to look down on me. I costumed African Queen video and they did not acknowledge it till date. It has been a cry I have been holding till now.

We met in August last year at Senator Ita Giwa’s daughter’s wedding ceremony.

When I enquired to know what was going on, all they could say was ‘Bros let us talk’ and we exchanged numbers. They never called me but I called them once and decided to forget it so that it would not look like I am pestering their lives. I am still depressed about African Queen video because I went through a lot to costume it free of charge. Acknowledging it was all I expected from him but he denied me till date. I even thought of suing him but along the line, the game was too much for me because of his manager, Kennis Music.

So, I went through the media but it still did not go far. The case is just like a child that is raped. I feel terrible.

What do you have a weakness for?

I have never been afraid of anything but human beings. That is my weak point and that is where I am mostly hit. I am a very simple person and open minded. I can easily give myself to friends but they wouldn’t give themselves. I sacrifice a lot.

I am a humanitarian and with that, it becomes a weakness on my part and people take that for granted; it hurts though.

Tell us about your perfect holiday.

I think the last one I had was in Ghana last year. I could relax and watch fashion

shows just to feed my eyes and gather some ideas. It was a perfect one.

What should a fashion designer focus more on?

In the industry, we don’t have a regulatory body that directs our creative mindset when it comes to fashion in Nigeria. I still see people wearing patches of Ankara which is meant to be out of vogue by now.

Since 2010 that someone came up with the idea, which I know my grandmother also did, why should other designers still live in it for three-four years? It doesn’t make any sense; we should be looking at something different like colours, fabrics and style so that people can follow it up.

I advised that they should go for sensitive colours from ocean drive. I am a bit tired of African print, there are lots of other fabrics but the industry is not smiling at that. Meanwhile, designers are the ones who make things happen so, why should one die for a particular fabric when you have varieties? Let us see your creativity level in whatever you are doing and once it is out of the market please, take it off; it does not necessarily have to last 100 years.

I studied fine art and I know what fabric is.

Do you think that the government has

done enough for the industry?

No, I don’t agree to that and if at all they are doing something for the industry then, may be the regulatory body is not circulating it or there is something pulling it back because it is not getting to everyone.

In Nigeria, we believe you must be in the clique to have it and I don’t believe in cliques before I can make my money.

I also believe that the industry is big and large enough for everybody to explore creativity and make money; one person cannot do it all. Why not create a forum that we can mass produce and export it with our label? Many of us go to Dubai to mass produce and bring back here. Why can’t we do the production here, instead of spending that money out there? If we can mass produce in Nigeria, it will blow the economy and create job opportunities for many. The production in carnival making alone is something else. In Nigeria, the rich play the carnival, the poor watch. For you to take part in a carnival band, you pay almost N500,000. If that is for a person, it simply means there is a huge amount of money in that angle, not to talk of something people wear day to day.

What do you think the government should do to help the industry?

Government should fund the fashion industry, create an industry whereby machines will be installed for different purposes. Then, if there is a need for designers to pay a certain amount before using it, we will gladly embrace it and pay tax from sales. The money will still go back to the nation’s economy and the economy will blow. People will also have jobs to do. If we have such an industry, imagine what we will produce in a day, weeks and months.

This is a lot of money beyond the oil money because everybody must wear clothes. A baby born today must wear something.

Is it true that your clients have to pay through their nose to get your service?

I don’t think so; it is just that I am very selective. I have faced a lot of clients and why I had to narrow myself down to this status now was because of the things I had gone through. But it is not weighing me down though. There is a difference between being a tailor and a designer. I may decide to be a sketch designer and that is where couture comes in. If I am clothing a particular celebrity on a red carpet show and she wants to make a name with the dress she is wearing and she is paying me N600,000, it is a fame for that celebrity.

But in this part of the world, celebrities don’t even mind going to a road side tailor to make the dress and then deny that common tailor of the rights. We are supposed to be celebrated; because if we don’t clothe you, you will not be a celebrity. So, I see myself as being supreme to the celebrity. Before anyone can be celebrated, a designer is involved. Now tell me where the future is for designers in this country?

What is the highest amount you have ever charged clients for your service?

When it comes to an individual, it is around N50,000 to N60,000. Some would even have to fight with you before they pay as little as it is. I tend to make my market liberal in the sense that I would not say that because I am a known name I will not design for someone who can afford N5000. I would tell you specifically what your N5000 can get for you so that you don’t expect to look like Beyonce in N5000. To some, I do charity work and I do give away clothes that I showcase but the problem is our mentality in this country is very low. We need orientation generally in our life, styling and all that.

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

J

ames is trying to patch his life. Suddenly, he has realised that for seven years, he has lived off a woman!

Whatever pushed him into such an embarrassing lifestyle? Whatever made him think he could enjoy the life of dependency?

He remembers his mother’s favourite saying, ‘Dirty hand leads to oily mouth’.

Whatever made him forget that! His late mother was a hardworking businesswoman who toiled day and night to ensure that her children had the best of life. Even when she lost her husband at his prime, she made sure that the quality of life their children were used to didn’t drop noticeably. She taught her children the import of hard work. She would have died of shock if she was alive and saw what became of her beloved son today.

“Mother, I’m sorry. I promise to change from my bad ways today,” James mutters.

He smiles as he negotiated the last turn to Dave’s house. He has spoken to Dave on the phone and they agreed to meet in his house. He has tried to avoid Kathryn for so long but today, he has to see Dave because it has become a matter of life and death.

There are business opportunities, Dave has told him. They have discussed about them and how James can get involved.

He wonders what he would have done without Dave. His heart misses a beat when he remembers Kathryn.

Fate!

He honks at the gate and the security man throws the massive gate open and he drives in. ************ Kathryn feels like she’s sitting on gun powder. She wonders how Dave will feel if he finds out his beloved cousin has slept with his wife. She shudders.

She will do anything to keep Dave, even if it means dying with that secret. But is it possible? James looks like trouble. His being married to her soul sister, Alice, notwithstanding. She is sure Alice will help her if need be, but wait, Alice has been behaving funny the past few days.

She has blamed it on hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, but it seems more than that. Alice is like an open book if you know her very well, and she does.

She has asked her repeatedly what the problem is but she has been evasive. The other day, she cried her eyes out on the phone when they spoke but would not say why.

Kathryn has felt that it has to do with James not doing anything for a living and has discussed the issue with Dave. Dave is also sort of disturbed, but she just cannot pinpoint what his anxiety is all about.

However, something rings in her mind: Alice continually said that she had hurt somebody that means the world to her as she cried that day. Well, she will get to the bottom of that when they see eyeball to eyeball later in the week, but now, she has to confront that monster that wants to wreck her life.

Dave has called to say that James is coming over. She would have preferred that Dave is home before his arrival, but he is held up somewhere and will come home a clear hour later!

Well, she will give it to James! She can’t allow any man to make her miserable in her husband’s house. She refuses to live like her soul sister!

The bell chimes and she goes to let James in.

“My wife, how are you doing?” James says in the most friendly tone and Kathryn is taken aback. This is the first time they will be alone since they met after

julietbumah@gmail.com

Hour of decision!

she quit her trade.

“I’m fine,” she replies in an uncertain tone. James has always been antagonistic towards her; why being this civil?

“I have a meeting with my brother.

Please tell him I’m around. Hope you have something in the kitchen? I can eat a whole house now,” he says.

He actually looks tired.

“My husband is not back. He’s held up in Tayo’s office. He said you should give him an hour. Lemme get something for you to eat,” Kathryn says.

“Thanks,” James says after her as she walks to the kitchen.

She isn’t sure of James’ friendliness.

What has happened? Has Alice chided him over his irritable behavior to her?

She dishes some food into a plate and serves him.

She watches him eat heartily while she pretends to be watching the television.

She clears the table when he is done and goes back to her favourite spot in the sitting room -the ottoman facing the big screen.

“How are you doing dear,” James asks suddenly and her heart lurches.

“I’m good,” she replies. That husky voice! It throws her back to those days they were together. He has not used that

voice since they met again. He has always almost growled whenever he talks to her, so she is thrown off guard at his tone now.

“How’s life with you? Anyway, I can see you’re doing great,” he says again in that friendly tone.

Kathryn watches him closely. She just doesn’t feel comfortable. James may just shatter her life today when Dave comes in. He may just reveal their past together.

She wishes that Alice is around. She has always felt safe with her.

Unfortunately, Alice is not here. She realises that she has to be nice to him so that he doesn’t bring her world tumbling down. Be nice to a man who obviously hates her! She curses under her breath and smiles.

He catches the smile and smiles back.

His next words throw her off her feet.

“Kiki, I’m sure you think I hate you. I don’t. I have always loved you! When I couldn’t reach you for months, I was out of my mind. So when I saw you months later beside my brother, I was mad. I tried to get you off my mind but couldn’t. I was in love with you...even now. I became antagonistic to mask my feelings to you. I know I had behaved like a prig to you but it was a deliberate effort to

get you off my mind. I’m sorry Kiki, I’m really sorry,” he says.

Kathryn stares at James. She sees the James she grew to like and then love.

The James that had a way of making her laugh. The James she used to call spirit man because he disappears and appears at will. He called her Kiki in a way that melted her hard heart then...the same way he is calling that name now.

Her mind travels back in time, to that day he had advised her to get a man and leave the streets. She had laughed and asked if he was that man. That was the day he opened up to her. He said he would have gladly taken her off the street if he wasn’t married, he also told her about the woman outside his home.

She had taken that advise to heart and began to look for a man. At a point, she looked his way seriously.

Tears flow down her cheeks. She is so engrossed in her thoughts that James is kneeling before her before she notices.

His hands rest on her bare laps.

“Kiki, why are you crying? I didn’t mean to make you cry. You see, I should be the one crying. My life is a mess; my marriage, a mess. Alice is threatening to throw me out of the house...her house actually. Yes, her house. I think she’s had enough of me. I really had not been a responsible man at home,” he says, his tone sad.

Her hands are on his shoulders before she knows what she’s doing.

“It’s ok dear. You just have to change your ways. My sister is a very good woman. You have wronged her and you need to apologise to her. I’ll talk to her also, but promise me you will stop making my life miserable,” she says.

James replies, “I’ve stopped doing that already Kiki, my Kiki. You don’t know how jealous I felt the first time I saw you beside my brother. Such is life. Love has a way of healing every wound, it also has a way of causing problems for man.

I loved you, will always do...”

He stands up, pulling her up too and kisses her. It is too sudden, Kathryn had already responded before she realises what is happening.

“I love you Kiki...hope you will make me godfather of your baby...” he begins but the honk of a car at the gate cuts him off. Kathryn extricates herself from his arms and goes upstairs. *** After mulling over her life, Alice picks her phone and dials a number. She is worried. She never expected things to turn out this way, but they did. The problem now is that she has to make sure very few people are hurt as she savours her joy.

“Hello darling,” she coos into the mouthpiece.

“Yes, I’m so happy. Will be happier if we can find a way around this situation I found myself. Kathryn is my sister from another mother and if I have my way, I wouldn’t want to hurt her feelings. Since it has happened, we have to find a way around it. Okay, let’s meet outside our respective homes then,” Alice says into the phone while listening and interjecting at intervals. ********* This is really the hour of decision. Let’s meet here on Sunday. It can only get better!

•Send your observations to the email above.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015

Body&Soul

&

Read the label before buying!

I

Vanessa Okwara

gnorance they say is no excuse. That is why you should not play dumb or joke with anything that may have an adverse effect on your health and wellbeing. This warning is particularly important especially when you go shopping for beauty products and you are plagued with a variety of products begging for your choice.

If you’ve ever looked at the cosmetic ingredients that make up the product; usually written at the back of your favourite facial cleanser or shampoo, you will agree with me how hard to decipher they are. The difficult-toread list can sometimes mean turning the other cheek to harmful chemicals, but a tough-sounding ingredient can often be quite harmless.

You can extricate yourself from that quagmire by arming yourself with knowledge of these chemicals that make up a particular product you wish to purchase. Educate yourself and do your research before you buy any product.

Here is a list of some of the major ingredients found in most beauty products and the functions they have on the body. Once you familiarise yourself with these ingredients, you’ll find that some are useful and effective, but some may be worth steering clear of. That way, you know exactly what products to use and the ones to drop.

Hydroquinone When treating melasma or dark spots, this ingredient is the gold standard. Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent that is the best bet for fading brown spots. Hydroquinone also has antioxidant properties and is a component of glucoside arbutin. It is the most effective skin-lightening agent.

Glycerin If you’re buying a moisturiser, then definitely be on the lookout for this game-changer for dry skin. Glycerin is a humectant, a water-attracting moisture magnet which draws moisture into the skin. A moisturiser with glycerin as an ingredient will be particularly helpful at easing dryness.

Phthalates Phthalates are plasticisers — they are used to make plastics softer. They are considered not good for the body because they are potentially carcinogenic. These groups of chemicals have been seen lurking in deodorants, perfumes/colognes, nail polishes, hair sprays and moisturisers. Steer clear!

Parabens Parabens are widely used preservatives that prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and yeast in cosmetic products. Sounds good, right? Not so fast, they do more than that. Parabens possess estrogenmimicking properties that are associated with increased risk of breast cancer. These chemicals are absorbed through the skin and have been identified in biopsy samples from breast tumors. They can be found in makeup, body washes, deodorants, shampoos and facial cleansers. You can also find them in food and pharmaceutical products.

Sulfates These detergents are used in cleansing formulas and are very popular in products like shampoo and face wash, which generates lather (a property of sulfates).

They’re actually very harsh and strip the skin of oil, which leads to loss of hydration or dry, brittle hair. Luckily, many companies are doing away with sulfates, but look out for ingredients ending in sulfate (like sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium laureate sulfate).

Body&Soul

22

T

he ability to transform a seemingly simple look into something super chic is the trademark of a stylish chic. Shorts may be an innocuous piece of clothing, but when styled creatively with details such as half tucked in top, blazers, multiple bracelets, a red lipstick and a sly smile, then you have a sexy cyclone on the prowl!

There are shorts and there are SHORT SHORTS! From the playful chic to daring sexy, shorts are

Vanessa Okwara

come in different fabrics.

However, there are important things to bear in mind when trying to rock this trend. The first is to acquire the perfect shorts for your body shape.

Every woman should know the best way to pull off shorts suitable for their figure and silhouette. If you have hot legs, flaunt it in short shorts! If not, simply look for the right shorts that will hide some flesh and at the same time flatter your figure. Don’t push yourself into trends when your personal style and body shape don’t meet its designs.

For short legs, a pair of shorts with an in-seam of about six inches or so, depending on how short your legs are would do wonders with exaggerating the length of your legs. You can also pair with heels for a lengthier look. For a more laid-back, subtle look, match up your shorts with some flattering flats or snickers. Add a little edginess to your style by pairing your shorts with accessories like belts, sheer leggings and fun heels just to add glamour to your entire outfit.

As for tops, a good rule to remember is balance.

Sizzle in short shorts

SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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SundayBusiness SUNDAY

SUNDAY MARCH 1, 2015

News

Nigeria’s growth rate forecast lower at 4.9% p.24

Huge expectations from tax amid leakages •How Nigeria loses billions of naira to tax evasion, avoidance

Brands X-raying Jonathan, Buhari brand values p.27

Interview

Why govt can’t help ailing privatised firms – Dikki p.25

Jonathan

C

Paul Ogbuokiri

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph online.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

oordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, recently said that part of the Federal Government’s contingency plan aimed at shielding the economy against the steep fall in oil price at the international market is to raise the revenue targets of key non-oil revenue agencies for the next fiscal year.

Aside the Federal Inland Revenue Service, the key non-oil revenue collecting agencies include the Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Maritime and Safety Administration Agency, Nigerian Ports Authority among others.

According to Okonjo-Iweala, the plan would see an increase in the revenue target for both FIRS and the Nigeria Customs Service, but she did not disclose the exact revenue targets given to the agencies this year.

This is even as receipts from these two revenue collecting agencies in the 2014 fiscal year was slightly above half of their revenue targets.

Other revenue collecting agencies like NIMASA and NPA have been treated with kid gloves in terms of adequately accounting for the revenues they collect.

Sunday Telegraph learnt that NMASA had not accounted for over $800 million and N50bn Cabotage Vessel Finance Fund it collected on behalf of the country in the past 10 years. NIMASA collects three per cent of the price of the total tonnage of every vessel that enters the country. It also collects Environmental Tax from every vessel that call at

Okonjo-Iweala

We must shift the economy to non-oil revenue and we are already working hard on non-oil.

Our revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio is below that of other countries the Nigerian ports and this is aside from Cabotage waiver fees.

Its annual revenue has never been made public.

Okonjo-Iweala had stated that FIRS had realised N44bn out of its N75bn target while Customs realised N713bn (between January and September) out of its N1.23trn target.

“We must shift the economy to non-oil revenue and we are already working hard on non-oil. Our revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio is below that of other countries. We need to work very hard on non-oil sector and deliver on it,” she said.

Experts insisted that the NCS alone is capable of collecting above N2trn a year if all avenues of leakage are blocked.

President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, said in an interview with Sunday Telegraph that Nigeria loses over N120bn revenue annually to the smuggling of vehicles into the country. Also, the President of Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Mr. Lucky Aiyes Amiwero, said the country loses more than N1trn annually to corruption in the NCS.

He said the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), which NCS recently introduced, is not working because both the Customs and their alleged clearing agents collaborators are now taking advantage of the loopholes in the system to rob government of much revenue.

“As far as I am concerned, Customs is the most corrupt government agency I know. What it generates to the Federation Account is less than what goes into private pockets. That is why no technology introduced to make trade seamless and eliminate human contact has succeeded.

We in the freight forwarding community are not left out in the conspiracy to deny government of its statutory revenue,” he stated.

According to a former President of Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Nzekwe, Nigeria hardly reckons with the necessity to enthrone and enforce an equitable and efficient tax system, despite occasional policy pronouncements by FIRS and the Joint Tax Board.

“For how long such a disposition and the resultant loopholes are to be condoned is a matter of conjecture. But emerging facts from the Organised Private Sector (OPS) and the oil and gas industry should be sufficient signals that the country is being robbed to the tune of billions of dollars yearly and that urgent measures must be put in place, expeditiously, to overhaul tax practice and administration,” he said.

A recent report of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, which looked into an audit report that had accused one of the International Oil Companies of tax evasion to the tune of $10.8bn (an equivalent of N140bn) stated that “the company overC ON TI N UE D ON PAGE 23

24

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

Business/ News

Nigeria’s growth rate forecast lower at 4.9% Paul Ogbuokiri

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with agency report

gainst the backdrop of the delay in the 2015 elections, the Nigerian economy which is reeling over the blows dealt on it by the fall in oil prices and the rapid depreciation of the value of Naira, the growth rate of the economy was further forecast lower on Wednesday.

This is even as the economy is forecast to continue to be among the 20 fastest growing economies in the world in 2015.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, is projected to be the number sixth fastest growing economy, according to the Bloomberg survey.

The National Bureau of Statistics had forecast the growth rate of the country’s economy at 54 per cent this year even as the International Monetary Fund had earlier cut Nigeria’s growth rate to five per cent.

Nigeria had forecast the country’s GDP growth rate at 6.5 per cent.

The Bloomberg pyramid has China as the fastest growing economy in the world at seven per cent of GDP, and placed Nigeria at number six at 4.5 per cent of GDP. In the analysis, emerging markets in Asia and Africa still reign supreme: They’re at the top of global growth projections over the next two years.

The world is expected to grow 3.2 per cent in 2015 and 3.7 per cent next year after expanding 3.3 per cent in each of the past two years, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists. China, the Philippines, Kenya, India and Indonesia, which together make up about 16 per cent of global GDP, are all forecast to grow more than five per cent in 2015.

By comparison, the U.S and UK, which combined account for about a quarter of global growth, are expected to grow 3.1

L-R: Associate Director and Head, Sales and Market, KPMG Nigeria, Marie Phido; National Senior Partner, Seyi Bickersteth; Managing Director/CEO, Ebony Life TV, Mo Abudu; Chairman/CEO, Channels TV, John Momo and Chief Operating Officer, KPMG, and Yomi Sanni, at the Annual KPMG Nigeria Alumni cocktail in Lagos.

PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

per cent and 2.6 per cent this year, respectively. The euro area probably will expand just 1.2 per cent as European Central Bank President Mario Draghi deals with a fragile Greece and embarks on a bond-purchase program to stimulate the region’s growth.

China still remains the fastest-growing G-20 nation, even though the Asian economy is no longer expanding at the pace it did a few years ago. China’s economy grew 7.3 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2014 from a year earlier, and is expected to slow to 7 per cent in 2015.

To counter that slowdown, Peoples Bank of China policy makers are boost-

ing monetary stimulus. The central bank cut its benchmark interest rate in November for the first time since 2012.

This month officials lowered by 50 basis points the deposit reserve ratio, which is the amount of reserves that banks need to keep on hand.

U.S growth forecasts for 2015 are coalescing around three per cent even as the dollar soars to its highest level in more than a decade. As growth picks up, the Federal Reserve is weighing whether to raise interest rates for the first time since 2006. Their benchmark federal funds rate has remained near zero since December 2008.

Huge expectations from tax amid leakages CONT INU ED F R O M PAGE 23

bloated its cost of operation and evaded tax by $1.394bn; claimed unmerited cash call of $2.112bn.”

Nzekwe accused tax officials of colluding with companies to evade the payment of taxes.

According to him, tax evasion and avoidance remain the greatest problems plaguing the system in Nigeria. Apart from salaried employees, most citizens in Nigeria pay inadequate taxes or none at all and this has led to a substantial loss of government revenue.

“It is an embarrassing national situation that there does not exist a proper and effective tax system where these companies will be compelled to be responsible corporate citizens, contributing meaningfully to national development. It is simply morally reprehensible, culturally unacceptable and ethically indefensible that in a country where there exists a government, these acts could be perpetrated brazenly, and with characteristic impunity,” he said.

Nzekwe lamented that long after the work of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources on the report, nothing has been heard about any effort by government to compel the offending companies to pay in arrears the tax royalties they have been evading over the years.

“It is not too late for a virile tax culture to be instituted in Nigeria and to enforce the laws governing taxation to the letter. In decent climes where things work, governments are run on taxpayers’ money, which

confers on the citizenry the legitimacy and stake in public governance. Nigeria cannot and should not be an exception in this regard. This can only be done when corporate citizens pay their taxes and live up to their corporate responsibilities,” he said.

President of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, urged FIRS as the regulatory body for tax practice and administration, to put in place strategies to enable it to plug loopholes in enforcement.

“The issue of multiplicity of taxes often cited by corporate bodies deserves close examination, as states and local governments have flagrantly defied the Joint Tax Board by working outside the harmonised taxes set out by it,” he said.

“Where the companies are convinced of the legitimacy of their agitations, grounds are provided for evasion or even avoidance. Government, too, needs to ensure utmost prudence in the utilisation of revenues of whatever description to instill confidence in the system. When resources are effectively managed to meet the basic needs of the citizenry,” he added.

The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Credit Administration, Dr. Chris Onalo, said tax evasion and avoidance have been defied solution right from colonial times. However, some have blamed the situation on the tax authorities for not living up to expectation with regards to tax administration.

He noted that the self-employed in Nigeria pay less than 10 per cent of their personal income tax to the government

yearly, while employees pay the remaining 90 per cent.

According to him, civil servants and the other salaried workers are guilty of this nefarious practice in the manner in which they abuse the personal allowances and reliefs statutorily provided by the law.

Thus, almost every Nigerian civil servant, in their claim for personal allowances and reliefs, would claim falsely that he is married with four children.

He said that tax evasion has continued to remain an endemic problem in this country.

He said, “Tax evasion has become so widespread that there now exists a cash economy of widespread proportion over which the tax man has no control.”

Onalo also said that sequel to the recent rebasing exercise of Nigeria’s GDP, studies have exposed the country’s weak tax system which in turn is laden with corruption.

“The tax system manifests in low tax revenues. The Federal Government should as a matter of urgency take tax administration very seriously, if it is serious with its diversification project. There is a lot of money out there to be collected. Nigeria can run on taxes,” he asserted.

He noted that the advent of the new democratic dispensation in Nigeria, though, has raised tax revenues in the country. He added that going by statistics from Index Mundi, tax revenues in Nigeria more than trebled between 2006 and 2008 from almost $22bn to more than $68bn. By the close 0f the 2012 fiscal year, FIRS said it had generated N5trn.

NAFDAC seizes confectioneries in Onitsha market

N

ational Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has shut 12 shops and impounded confectioneries worth millions of Naira at the popular Ogbaru Relief Market, Onitsha, Anambra State.

The agency said in a statement that it had to force open two of the shops after their owners ran away to cross-check for the stocking of unregistered regulated products.

According to NAFDAC’s Public Relations Officer, Anslem Okonkwor, officials of the agency from its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate in Lagos stormed the market over fake and unregistered confectioneries in the market.

Chief Regulatory Officer, NAFDAC, Joseph Idowu, who led the team to the market, said the raid followed surveillance reports that some unregistered confectionaries illegally imported into the country were being sold in the market.

He said the cooperation they got from the market union was not encouraging, alleging that the leaders may have asked the fake products dealers to shut their shops and flee.

He said that four traders were earlier reported to them but they were able to break one of their shops where the fake products such as milk candy were found. Okonkwor said the shop sealed along with others as the traders were already building up to attack the agency’s regulatory officers.

He said NADFAC had issued out invitation letters to the market leaders asking those involved to report for clarification. He noted that the market leaders were not cooperative like their Bridge-Head counterparts who had collaborated with NAFDAC to sanitise the market.

Okokwor quoted Idowu as having called on the traders in the market who deal on certified products to report any suspected fake product smuggled into the market to NAFDAC.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

Business/ Interview

Why govt can’t help ailing privatised firms – Dikki

n this interview with STANLEY IHEDIGBO, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Mr. Benjamin Ezra Dikki, speaks on the challenges against power sector reforms.

One issue has been a source of worry to electricity consumers in the country. They are worried that the privatisation of the Power Handling Company of Nigeria has yet to translate to stable power supply. How long more do you think Nigerians will have to wait before power supply will be stabilised?

First and foremost, I want to distinguish between the projects that have already been initiated by government but have not been completed and the ones that have been completed. I also want to distinguish between the issues of the Transmission Company of Nigeria from other Federal Government power projects. At the time the Power Holding Company of Nigeria was privatised, TCN was not privatised because it was so dilapidated that the country was losing over 60 per cent of the power produced.

Over the years, adequate investments were not made in the sector, as a result, government decided not to privarise the transmission arm of PHCN because of the state and because no private sector person would be happy to invest in such dilapidated infrastructure. The idea was for government to invest massively in it, with a view to bringing it to a state that it would be able to perform its role in the emerging electricity power business in Nigeria.

The most critical enterprise to us which we are still working hard to bring back is the Ajaokuta Steel Company. The company has been down in a series of litigation

Gas has not been supplied to those plants and government is working on that. If we have gas today in these plants, we have the capacity to generate more than 10,000 megawatts. This is just from the Federal Government’s national gird only, minus the independent power projects in various cities of the country that are adding megawatts to the national grid.

they can operate optimally.

Recently, it was a challenge for the automobile industries to perform. But thanks to the industrial revolution policy of Mr. President, today we have four assembly plants back on track. The most critical enterprise to us which we are still working hard to bring back is the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

The company has been down in a series of litigation. We are hoping that very so soon the legal issues would end and the firm would be handed over to a private sector operator. Steel is needed in every aspect of the economy of Nigeria from iron roll for construction, steel bars for bridges, flat steel for cars, you name it.

The reform in the housing sector has not really translated to affordable houses for the populace.

Nigerians are willing to pay for houses, but the houses are not there. The few houses that are there cost so much that only highly placed Nigerians are able to access them.

We are looking at modifying the legal and regulatory framework, so that the private sector can invest in housing. In other climes, you see one company building more than one million housing units, using modern technologies and bringing down the cost. Also, we are looking at the land tenure system because today it constitutes the major challenges of our housing development, so we want a wholesale review of the Housing sector to make investment in the housing sector attractive and make houses affordable to the common man.

We are working on that as we have a project team chaired by the minister of housing with membership from various agencies of government. Before the end of the year, we will come up with a policy document and draft bill we believe will turn the Nigerian housing sector around.

We are not just doing it in abstract; we have undertaken a study of countries like Singapore to see how their housing programmes have worked for them and they were able to provide houses for 95 per cent of their citizens. We have looked at the South African and United States models.

We are still looking at one or two other models based on which we came up with necessary specifications to make housing work in Nigeria.

Some of the sectors privatised by BPE are known to be doing well, while some are not working. What is government doing about this?

The Federal Government cannot take back the privatised enterprises whose fortunes have not been turned around by their new owners. If I tell you how many cases people have filled against many privatised firms in the country, you will be surprised; a good example is the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex. We have not been able to take back the non-performing ones because there is no clear legal power to do that. Government never intended that any of the private operators after acquiring an enterprise would lock it up and throw away the key. The intention of government for privatising these organisations was that the firms would be resuscitated and added to the economic growth of the nation. In other words, if there are some enterprises that have closed down because of the dynamics in their sector, like the steel rolling mills, their situation is quite understood. So, there are privatised firms that investors deliberately wanted them not to operate and there are those that the economic realities have not allowed them to compete commercially, like ALSCON. The cost of aluminum today, because of the glut in the market, makes it uneconomical for ALSCON to remain in production. So we are already talking and making proposals to government to support some of our privatised industries, so that

If you go to places like South Africa, United Arab Emirates, all their stadia are being privatised. Is BPE considering the option of privatising the two national stadia at Abuja and Lagos?

Like I said earlier, we are working on the reforms of the housing sector and part of the initiatives was to concession the stadiums to the private sector. We don’t believe in outright sale. We believe that some of these assets are national assets.

We intend to give long concessions, like what we did with the seaports, 20 to 30 years concession. But under the arrangement, the concessionaires will be required to improve the infrastructure and ensure that they provide quality and affordable services. I am delighted that despite the lack of a regulator of Nigeria’s port industry, we have, however, seen tremendous investments. I believe that the Federal Government would not have been able to make such huge investments for over 10 to 15 years period. But the private sector is doing well in terms of ports infrastructure upgrade; that is why it is very important for us to reform all the other sectors of the economy in the country.

Look at the telecommunication industry, the investment the operators have made in the Nigerian economy, if we had left it under the inefficient government monopoly, it would take over 50 years for the Federal Government to achieve what we have today in that sector.

So what is the state of the TCN now?

TCM still remains under the government and government will continue to invest in it to improve the transmission network. One good news is that the TCN is no longer in a state of dilapidation. Also, why we cannot privatise TCN now is because we are generating only 4,500 megawatts on consistent bases. That is not enough for TCN to charge billing fees. We probably have to hit over 100,000 megawatts of power before charging for transmission of power which will probably make economic sense to the private investor.

Government has stopped investing in new plants. How do we hope to achieve targets in power supply?

There are many NIPP projects that have been completed and commissioned. When the ongoing 10 National Independent Power Projects are completed and handed over to the private sectors, we will use the proceeds to invest in new power plants.

Again, until we have a minimum of 40,000 megawatts of power, it will be difficult to have stable power supply in the country. Although government has privatised PHCN, the Federal Government will continue to intervene until Nigeria can generate sufficient power. That is why the Federal Government is still investing in the Hydro Power Dams and other power plants in the country.

Government will continue as a matter of deliberate policy to invest in power generation until the private sector is able to build dams. At that point government will privatise these projects or concession them. It is at this point that government will take its exit from the power sector business. So, the government must complete the projects it has started by investing in power generation and transmission.

When we say that in 2016 there will be stable power supply, I want us to distinguish between power generated and installed capacity. The power generating companies privatised from PHCN have an installed capacity of 6000 megawatts, out of which currently we are generating only about between 4,000 and 5,000 megawatts.

What you are saying is that if the gas issues are sorted out Nigeria can generate 6000 megawatts?

No, that is not all. There are the NIPP plants which have capacity for 5000 megawatts. If they are commissioned today they will add another 5000 megawatts to the national grid but the challenge with most of the NIPP plants is that there is no gas infrastructure to support the plants. So, government has come up with initiatives to supply gas to these plants. It is unfortunate that the previous governments never considered it important to build gas supply infrastructure to power plants. It is only President Jonathan’s administration that has taken on these challenges and has boldly privatised the power sector as well as continues to invest in infrastructure that will supply gas to the power plants. Currently, we have gas supply infrastructure that have been completed but shut down as result of no gas.

Dikki

26

SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Bulls still crashing bear party

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s risk factors somewhat tempered with the mini-revival in global oil prices, the market has sustained a generally positive mood for the better part of two weeks. The hot streak was however halted at the tail-end of this week, after 8 consecutive trading days of gains, and 9 positive trading days in 10, to bring Year-to-Date (YtD) return to -13.14%.

There are however several factors, which may drive market returns in the short-term, even amidst the political risks which are expected to dampen market activities. These include full flow of earnings season, provided there are impressive companies’ performance scorecards, increased investors activities given the attractive level of most equities prices, and smooth, violence-free general elections. However, our expectations are tempered due to heightening political tensions, the uncertain footing of the local currency, as well as the general expectations that oil prices may not stay resilient in the short-term.

The market ended the week on a positive note, with a Week-on-Week (WoW) advancement of +2.45%, as the NSE-ASI and market capitalization pegged at 30,103.81 and NGN10.027bn.

UACN, UBN, JBERGER, ACCESS and IKEJAHOTEL led the gainers’ chart for the week, with respective returns of 18.74%, 15.76%, 15.55%, 14.29% and 12.95%. On the flip side, OKOMUOIL, ACADEMY, NAHCO, REDSTAREX and RTBRISCOE led the losers’ table with respective returns of -14.22%, -12.93%, -8.30%, -7.69% and -7.59%. Volume and value of transactions for the week however declined respectively by 22.96% (1.605bn vs. 2.083bn units) and 5.33% (NGN21.270bn vs. NGN22.467bn).

In this report, we review events in the economy, laying emphasis on performance of different segments of the financial market while presenting our expectations for the week ahead.

Economic Round up: Nigerian forces reclaim Baga

South Africa released its 2015 budget review during the week; GDP growth is projected is to slow to 2% (from previous 2.5%) due to electricity constraints, which would consequently strain mining and manufacturing activities. Income tax will rise by 1%, Inflation rate is forecast to ease to 4.3% (vs. 6.1%), while further FX rate depreciation is anticipated given unstable commodity prices.

Ghana reached an agreement with the IMF for a three-year aid agreement worth c.USD1bn, procured to refurbish the country’s fiscal stability, solve the electricity crisis, and generally aid economic recovery.

Nigeria’s oil minister and OPEC president disclosed that the Organization may call an emergency meeting if oil prices slide further.

Meanwhile, the Senate house passed Nigeria’s 2015 budget proposal during the week, in which the oil price benchmark was reduced to USD52pb, Capital Expenditure was increased to NGN700bn (from NGN634bn) after cutting subsidy provision by NGN100bn, while the FX rate assumption was adjusted to NGN190.00/ USD given recent realities in the global oil and currency markets.

FX Reserves dwindled further to USD31.46bn (vs. USD32.17) during the week, as the new currency regime is yet to considerably ease the pressure on the reserves. Also, the CBN has directed all Banks to close all accounts belonging to government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in line with the revenue electronic collection scheme under the Treasury Single Account (TSA) Initiative.

Nigerian troops recorded marked success in the battle against insurgency, singing ‘Never Again’, as Baga town (one of the strong holds of Boko Haram) was reclaimed. President Jonathan visited the combatants, boosting their morale to wipe out insurgents. Meanwhile, General Buhari visited London ahead of the forthcoming election.

The success recorded by the Nigerian forces and allies, in our opinion, sends a positive signal to the financial markets, especially as the Chief of Army staff noted that polls can now take place in recaptured towns.

Fixed Income Update: TSA implementation draws closer

This week was rather eventful with the approval of NGN500.13bn by FAAC, proposed implementation of Treasury Single Account (TSA), maturities of OMO worth NGN200.624bn, and the OPEC president HE Diezani Alison-Madueke hinting of a possible Extra-ordinary General Meeting of all OPEC members to discuss the attendant effect of the decline in oil prices on the economies of member countries.

…FI market activities may temper due to TSA 0.01% WoW, while YtD return settled at -15.73% for the week.

MAYBAKER, the only sector stock that posted gains for the week, consolidated on previous week’s positive performance, as the counter advanced by 6.45% to settle at NGN1.65. Conversely, NEIMETH dipped by 4.05% to peg price at NGN0.71. All other counters closed flat for the week.

We expect increased activities in the sector in coming weeks, as companies begin to release earnings results.

Industrial Goods: positive sentiments moderate

NIBOR rates declined by an average of 3.84% for the week with the Call, 1M, 3M and 6M rates closing at 10.92%, 15.40%, 16.29% and 17.13% respectively. The money market rates followed the trend declining by 13.25% (OBB) and 13.12% (OVN) accordingly. The bond market ended the week with a massive sell sentiments as offer yield declined for AUG-2016 (Benchmark) and APR-2015 (Off-the-run) bonds only, to peg average offer yield at 16.14% and 15.89% for the Benchmark and off-the run bonds accordingly.

Our Meri Bond index also recorded 0.34% increase during the week, further accentuating the sentiments in the market. Similarly, rates inched higher for Treasury Bills during the week by an average of 0.07%.

The Naira continued its free fall during the week pushing the domestic currency to NGN202.67/USD representing a year to date loss of 9.82%. We expect the distribution of FAAC Allocations might increase activities during the week, pressuring rates downwards, although the proposed implementation of TSA could possibly negate the effects.

Agric Sector: PRESCO takes the lead with 10.14%

The MERI-AGR Index pared by 7.15% WoW to reduce YtD return to 26.22%. Two stocks gained, while a sole loser emerged this week, to peg the sector breadth at 2.00x.

LIVESTOCK led the gainers’ list, consolidating on the previous week’s gain (1.91%) to return 4.69% WoW. OKOMUOIL reversed last week’s sterling performance (21.47%) to dip by (-14.22%) while ELLAHLAKES, FTNCOCOA and PRESCO both traded flat.

We anticipate that the positivity in the equities market will likely be tempered in the weeks to come, which may also impact this sector’s returns. Hence, we advise investors to trade with caution.

Banking Sector: Sector breadth at 13.00x

The positive run in the previous week continued into this week, as the banking sector’s return as measured by our Meri-Bank Index, closed with WoW and Month-on-Month (MoM) gains of 4.90% and 10.48% respectively. Market breadth pegged at 13.00x, as thirteen stocks gained against a lone decliner (WEMABANK: -1.02%).

Top gainers for the week were UBN, ACCESS, GUARANTY, STERLNBANK and FIDELITYBK with respective gains of 15.76%, 14.29%, 7.90%,

7.69% and 7.56%.

The positive sentiment in the banking sector came in despite the news surrounding the expected implementation of the Treasury Single Account, which effectively represents 100% CRR on public sector funds, against the current 75% CRR on same.

However, as we expect banks to continue with their private sector deposit drive to fund their operations, we do not envisage a severely negative resultant effect from this long time coming development. As we still expect speculators to begin to cash in on gains, especially as we go into the election month, we do not anticipate excessive gains in the coming month.

Consumer Goods: NESTLE proposes NGN17.50/share dividend

The Sector’s index declined by 2.34% for the week despite the recent rally noticed in the market. UACN reigned supreme on the gainers’ chart, with a 18.74% WoW gain to close with a market price of NGN40.37. DANGFLOUR (+1.73%), DANGSUGAR (+0.48%), HONYFLOUR (+2.76%), FLOURMILL (+9.59%), VITAFOAM (+0.28%), PZ (+6.19%), UNILEVER (+5.07%), AGLEVENT (+4.39%), GUINNESS (+0.18%), NB (+3.93%), and CHAMPION (+2.00%) also earned spots on the chart.

On the converse, NASCON had the highest WoW loss (-7.15%) to close with a market price of NGN6.36. Also on the chart were CADBURY (-2.32%), VONO (-4.12%) and INTBREW (-0.16%).

Nestle Nigeria Plc., posted an impressive year on year (YoY) revenue growth despite stiff competition, and the austere economic environment.

2014FY Revenue rose by 7.70% to NGN143.33bn, while earnings after tax declined slightly by 0.10%, primarily due to the 147.14% hike in finance charges resulting from Naira devaluation.

While we expect more earning releases to drive sector performance in the coming week, we maintain our stance that opportunities abound in the sector for discerning long-term investors given the level of prices.

Healthcare Sector: activities calm despite positive market mood

Surprisingly, the sector mood was calm despite the upward trend in the market, as only two stocks recorded price movements for the week. The sector index advanced marginally by

Activities in the industrial goods sector appeared moderate, as the Meri-industrial index traded marginally up, gaining 0.55% during the week. Six stocks closed the week flat, four recorded price declines, while only two stocks appreciated in value.

PORTPAINT declined the most, having shed 4.96% to drag share price down to NGN4.03.

CUTIX reversed the gains from the previous week, as it recorded a 4.46% decline in share price, just as PAINTCOM and CCNN shed 0.67% and 0.09% respectively.

Positive sentiments returned on CAP during the week, as the stock witnessed renewed buy sentiments which pushed the share price up by 10.19%. In the same vein, DANGCEM increased in share price by 0.53% to sustain its recent upward trend.

We note the slowdown in bargain hunting activities during the week evidenced by the lower WoW sector gain (0.55% vs 7.19% in previous week). We anticipate continued cautious trading by investors looking to tap into attractively priced stocks, coupled with intermittent profittaking activities. We therefore expect gyrations in prices to continue in line with prevailing market sentiments.

Insurance Sector: enjoys market gains

Contrary to the previous week’s outcome, the insurance sector gained 2.94% WoW, to trim YtD return to -2.31%. No counter recorded a loss during the week, while 4 stocks appreciated in prices.

CONTINSURE led the gainers’ chart for the week, advancing by 6.98% to close at NGN0.92 (vs. NGN0.86 in previous week). MANSARD, NEM and AIICO trailed with gains of 6.38%, 3.33% and 1.35% accordingly, while all other counters traded flat.

Considering the cyclic market trend from the beginning of the year, coupled with the halt in the widespread bullish sentiment, we advise cautious trading in the coming week as we envisage a degree of profit-taking by investors in the coming week.

Oil & Gas Sector: trades positive as Brent Crude gains +15.81%

The sector, aligning with the market, closed 0.64% up in relation to the previous week, as measured by the MERI-OILG index.

Monthly return for the sector stood at 8.03% as reflected by our MERI-OILG index, as SEPLAT and ETERNA closed in the positive zone with returns of 53.98% (NGN470.00) and 1.12% (NGN2.70) respectively. TOTAL, FO, OANDO, and CONOIL recorded declines of 2.77%, 7.22%, 9.10%, and 9.69% respectively for the month, while other sector stocks closed flat.

Global oil prices trended northward in the month by 15.81% (Brent: USD61.87 as at today, compared to USD52.99 on the last day of January).

We expect market dynamics to continue to partly affect the dictates of the sector in the short term, as investors await earnings releases by the companies.

Services Sector: IKEJAHOTEL continues to outperform

The optimism that pervaded the equities market in the week failed to reach the sector, as the MERISER Index pared by -4.94% WoW to bring YtD return to -14.44%. Three stocks gained while four stocks declined to peg the market breadth at 0.75x, in favour of losers.

IKEJAHOTEL closed the week on a positive note with a gain of 12.95%, consolidating on the previous week’s gain. TRANSEXPR, AIRSERVICE followed with respective gains of 8.99% and 5.00%. On the other hand, ACADEMY led the underperformers with a 12.93% price decline, trailed by NAHCO (-8.30%), REDSTAREX (-7.69%), and RTBRISCOE (-7.59%).

Even though we expect that positive returns in the equities market might serve as a catalyst to the services sector, we acknowledge the headwinds on the horizon which might temper market returns, consequently leaving the sector as it is in the current state.

27

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

My perception of poverty (3) Success Nuggets Victor Okwudiri 08037674300 (SMS only)

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o far, I have established that there is more to poverty than the inability to afford the basic necessities of life (food, clothing and shelter). We have identified the following as poverty: • lack of knowledge; • lack of skills • A few more today. Here we go.

• Lack of meaninful relationships Life is designed in a way that no man can survive alone. Somehow, everyone needs someone. Even nature itself thrives on what is called an ecosystem, and each element of the ecosystem balances another. For instance, human beings give plants carbon dioxide, and plants, in return, give human beings oxygen. Can you now see that you cannot go the whole hog alone?

Friend, if you do not have people you can fall back on when life’s challenges seem overwhelming, or shoulders you can stand on to see ahead, you are poor. Money is not everything and everything is not money.

It is important that everyone builds meaningful relationships. In the event that life overfloods one with chal-

lenges, a relationship he or she has built overtime may be the ship that will sail him or her to the shore of safety.

• Lack of ideas It was Socrates who said that ideas rule the world.

The men who control the wealth of our world run on ideas. Microsoft was an idea (it once existed in the mind of someone). Facebook was an idea. This article you are reading right now ‘was’ an idea. In fact, the world we live in was God’s idea.

This morning, you used a toothbrush. That was someone’s idea. Even the toothpaste you used was someone’s idea. The newspaper via which you are reading this beautiful article was someone’s idea. The couch, chair or bed you are sitting on to read this article was someone’s idea. The clothes on you right now were ideas. If you are a Christian, you probably went to church today. If you did, I believe your congregation sang some songs. I want to tell you that those songs were other people’s ideas. My question for you now is: when will people benefit from your idea?

Now, hear this, please. You paid to benefit from virtually all the ideas I mentioned above. You gave your money in exchange for toothpaste and a toothbrush. Money exchanged hands for you to get the couch, chair or bed you are sitting on right now. I believe you paid for this newspaper you are reading now, and your pay somehow accounted for the production cost of the publisher, the intellect of the editorial team and the services of the vendor.

Now, I ask you: When will people pay

you for your ideas (whether goods or services)? Hmmm! Friend, think of something to do. Life only stinks with poverty when men don’t think.

See! Just one idea can endear you to men and women, and get their money into your pocket. I am a living witness. As an undergraduate, there were times I was not just broke, but broken. It was when poverty relocated from my pocket to stare me in the face that it dawned on me that my destiny was in my hands. My ‘brain’ worked by force. An idea struck me to go to my pastor, Pastor George Izunwa, of Gateway International Church, Port Harcourt, and propose to transcribe his messages into books, such that he would become a prolific author. It worked. Within that year, I did three books for him. When he was to launch them, River State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, was a special guest. I made him proud. It was therefore no surprise that he paid my final year school fees, and when I could not afford N220,000 and a laptop to proceed to the Nigerian Law School, because my parents were ‘so rich,’ it was that same Pastor George Izunwa who paid my law school fees.

As though that was not enough, upon my graduation from the Nigerian Law School with a 2-1 (Second Class Upper), the same Pastor Izunwa, whom I developed books for, gave me about N105,000 to cover my Call to Bar expenses and other incidentals.

Today, I am doing fine in Abuja. See how far just ONE IDEA has brought me. Now, it is your turn. What are you waiting for?

(To be continued next week)

How to handle criticism The Big Picture Julian Atufunwa 08032810713 (SMS only)

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ne of the costs of leadership is criticism. Criticism as Aristotle put it is something you can easily avoid by saying nothing, doing nothing and being nothing. You will get along well with people as long as you remain at the same level with them, but the moment you decide to think outside the box or make a decision to think for yourself and make significant changes, that is the day you sign a contract with criticism.

Criticism causes us to respond in some ways. One could actually use criticism as a building block to greater heights or choose to get distracted or frustrated. The ability to handle criticism positively is a sign of maturity.

Benefit of Criticism 1. Criticism is a sign of growth: Nothing would be said if you are doing nothing a. You are growing as a leader if you decide to follow your heart and refuse to lead the conventional way. b. You are improving if you decide to use your own ability to serve your people and not depend on the abilities or ideologies of other

people. c. You are growing if you have a hunger and you are making moves to make an honest contribution. d. You are improving if there is a thirst to leave people better than you met them. All the above mentioned are signs of growth and attract criticism.

2. There is a dot of truth in a full page of criticism: It means that there is an element of truth in criticism. It is needful you take an honest look at what has been said, pick out that point and make corrections.

3. Criticism broadens your mindset: You may be narrowed in your thinking until you are criticised.

Criticism reveals to you some part of you that you are not aware of.

Be willing to accept that you are not perfect; take measures to make positive changes.

4. Criticism exposes yourself to you: Did you say you have love? Do you brag that you are patient? Do you think you are humble enough and can forgive easily? Then wait until you are criticized and you will find out if truly you are what you claim to be.

5. It awakens the giant in you: Criticism spurs you to action; it could make you acquire more skills and develop the capacity to achieve a greater result to prove your critics wrong.

6. You gain more respect when you handle criticism wisely.

How to Differentiate Between Constructive and Destructive Criticism The ability to discern between

One could actually use criticism as a building block to greater heights or choose to get distracted or frustrated constructive and destructive criticism will go a long way in helping you respond appropriately.

Constructive Criticism 1. It is meant to build you up and it is mostly given in private.

2. The words of well meaning critics are always gentle and kind.

3. A constructive critic will never attack persons, but will only point out the faults and give practical solutions to help correct them.

4.

If the critic possesses character you adore and is a person of integrity, then it is likely he or she is helping. So be grateful for his or her words and make necessary adjustments.

Destructive Criticism 1. It is given to tear you down, so don’t pay much attention.

2. It reduces your self-esteem and makes you feel that you are not good at all.

3. Negative minded critics will always give destructive feedback.

Finally, keep doing what is right if you are sure it is what you are called to do. Do not change to please anyone. Keep improving daily; excellence is not a destination but a journey.

SundayBusiness/News

Oil may drop again–Analyst O

il prices could drop again later this year as a supply glut persists, according to Jason Kenney, a Banco Santander SA analyst who accurately predicted a rebound in prices after the 2008 slump.

The current oil shock caused by the boom in U.S. shale production is reminiscent of the mid-1980s, when development of fields in the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico caused a supply glut, Kenney, the head of European oil and gas equity research at the Spanish bank, said by phone from Edinburgh Thursday. It differs from the 2008 collapse, which was caused by slumping demand in a recession, Kenney said.

“My gut feel is that the oil price could see a double bottom,” Kenney said. “We’ve got too much inventory” and the recent price rebound may not have taken fully into consideration the supply glut, he said.

The price of oil collapsed about 60 per cent from June to January as the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries maintained production and the U.S. pumped at the fastest pace in three decades. A plunge on a similar scale happened almost 30 years ago, when crude dropped from about $30 a barrel in November 1985 to less than $10 four months later. A two-month rebound to $17 was followed by second dip to near $10.

West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. benchmark, has recovered about 12 per cent from its Jan. 29 low as oil companies have idled a record number of drilling rigs and cut spending. U.S. output continues to rise and the nation’s stockpiles of crude increased to 434.1 million barrels last week, the most in weekly data starting in 1982, according to the Energy Information Administration.

“I’m not really bothered by the rig count,” Kenney said. “I’m not sure production is falling quickly enough.” The longer the oil price remains above a level that allows shale oil to keep pumping, “there’ll be technology gains and efficiency improvements so that North American shale can be developed more effectively at lower prices still,” he said.

There is also potential for Iranian crude to come back to the market and for Libyan oil disruptions to dissipate, which could put more downward pressure to prices later this year, he said.

Kenny predicted at the end of 2008, following a 75 per cent price slump amid a global financial crisis, that Brent crude would recover by about 60 per cent to average $60 a barrel in the following year.

The international benchmark averaged $62.67 in 2009, according to ICE Futures Europe data. In nine analyst forecasts compiled by Bloomberg News at the time, the median difference to the actual 2009 Brent price was more than $10.

Brent will average $52.50 a barrel this year, Kenney estimates. This assumption is based on the average of $50 a barrel that international oil companies he covers are using to establish their budgets for the next three years, he said. The median Brent forecast of 46 analyst estimates compiled by Bloomberg is $61.69 a barrel for 20 2015.

Brent for April settlement gained $1.21, or 2 per cent, to $61.26 at 9:56 a.m. on Friday

Adultery Law: Condom maker’s profit rises

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hares of South Korea’s leading condom maker soared for a second day on Friday after the country’s Constitutional Court decriminalized adultery in a ruling that ended a decades-old anti-cheating law.

Unidus Corp. was up 11 per cent to 3,475 won at 12:55 p.m. Friday in Seoul. The stock rose 15 per cent on Thursday, leaving it up almost 30 per cent since the ruling. Hyundai Pharmaceutical Co., a maker of morning-after pills, rose 10 per cent on Thursday to the highest in more than five years. The shares slid 7 per cent Friday.

“Certain themes can drive up share prices and it is probably a temporary rise,” Ha Tae Gi, an analyst at SK Securities in Seoul, told Bloomberg, referring to Unidus. “Shares have the tendency to spike on news events and this probably won’t keep rising over the long term,” he said.

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BRANDS SUNDAY MARCH 1, 2015

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Dele Alao s the clock gradually ticks towards the presidential election on March 28, 2015, all eyes are on two presidential candidates - President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party and Maj-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress. Both candidates have been put forward for the electorates to decide.

The presidential election that was initially fixed for February 14, 2015 has been generating much interest, going by the various electioneering campaigns across the media: Above-The-Line, Below-The-Line and online platforms. Consequently, the enthusiasm has just been too high on the part of the electorate. In fact, some observers have contended that this year’s elections would be the most fiercely fought since the country’s independence in 1960.

“It is the most sophisticated electioneering campaign I have ever witnessed in this country,” a 65-year old lawyer, who, craved anonymity, said. He added: “Since the PDP assumed power in 1999, this is the election year in which the ruling party is facing the stiffest challenge from the opposition.”

The campaigns Besides, since the duo kicked off their campaigns, with the slogans of Transformation and Change respectively, there have been accusations and counter-accusations. For instance, Jonathan at his campaign flag-off in Lagos, challenged Buhari to explain how he spent his defence budget while he served as head of state. “He did not buy a single rifle.

He had great soldiers who had no arms,” Jonathan had said. He also chided the former military leader for not given prominent attention to women under his administration and worst of all, not allegedly being able to remember his phone number.

Expectedly, Buhari responded to Jonathan’s allegations. He told the President that what he spent on defence was higher than what the Yar’Adua/Jonathan administration spent.

As it were, managers of the two presidential candidates have left no stone unturned to make their candidates acceptable to the electorate. Indeed, various strategies are being deployed to package and make them the two presidential candidates acceptable political brands.

Individual brands Since the goal of election is to win, experts have argued that campaign must brand itself with an appealing – yet accessible – image. “The brand is the candidate and the candidate is the brand,” the experts who also want their identities shielded for professional reasons said. They added: “A lot of time and energy goes in to the branding of a candidate. People need to feel like they know this person – they can relate to this person – this person is like me, and by extension, this person understands me and will best represent me. There has to be a connection between candidate and voter.”

Moreover, they insist that accessibility is only one part of the political brand. The colours used in the logo, the clothes worn in the official portrait, none of it “just adds.”

Each is selected for the symbolism it conveys. Simply creating a look and feel is not enough. The brand must be reinforced through every delivery mechanism possible.

Pieces of mail, handouts, phone calls, web ads or TV ads that do not support the brand of the candidate created must not be used.”

In the context of the above, Global Strategist, JSP Corporate Communications, Dr. Phil Osagie, periscoping the two presidential candidates said the President has enormous advantages as a presidential contender and presidential brand.

“He has the formidable power of incum-

X-raying Jonathan, Buhari brand values

Joanthan

Buhari

However, from what I can see as a participant observer, Nigerians are not looking at these things.

What perhaps is important to them is change because things are not working the way they want bency, huge war chest of cash, high share of media voice, control of the national TVnetwork and a well-oiled PDP political machinery.

“So his brand worth is high. His brand worth is however, diluted by the sliding naira, sluggish economy, poor infrastructure , alleged high level of corruption, Boko Harram security factor and an increasingly disenchanted public. President Goodluck Jonathan can be summarised as a highly valuable brand, but under pressure,” he stressed.

For Buhari, Osagie said he also has a number of strengths as a brand. “He is a highly respected former General, great personality, enjoys a corrupt-free image and growing public goodwill. He also has the APC political machinery and a big pool of political and communications strategists. His brand worth is also reduced by his smaller war

chest cash size, Islamic sentiments, health rumours and a political system beyond his control.

“In summary, Gen. Buhari can be described as the brand on the rise, but with a high mountain to climb,” the expert concluded.

For his part, former Director General, Bureau of Strategic Communications, Ekiti State, Kayode Akinyemi, described both candidates as strong brands. “But when you begin to break it down in term of acceptability, carriage,, appeal, arresting audience, attention, personality, experience and what they can offer Nigeria, then one may be better than the other.

“However, from what I can see as a participant observer, Nigerians are not looking at these things. What perhaps is important to them is change because things are not working the way they want. And this has been

the case in Nigeria’s history. The moment a government gets into power, people expect miracles. When those miracles don’t happen few months after the inauguration of the new government, people start to complain without taking into consideration the huge economic crisis in the nation. That perhaps explains why Buhari has a stronger appeal because people want a change. The reality however, is both have run the country as commander-in-chief. What I think our leaders need are corrupt-free, sincere, honest, experienced and patriotic lieutenants who are committed to better Nigeria to support whoever leads the country,” he explained.

Given these scenarios, experts argued that managers of the two leading political brands, would need to work harder to convince the electorates why a particular political brand deserves to occupy the number one political office in the country.

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SundayBusiness/Brands

Dufil to sample seven million consumers

M Dele Alao

akers of indomie instant noodles, Dufil Prima Foods, is set to sample seven million consumers this year as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.

The Public Relations/Events Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, said this in a statement made available to Sunday Telegraph.

He listed the various CSR and consumer engagement activities billed for this year include sampling of about seven millions consumers nationwide; celebration of Indomie Fan Club’s 10th year anniversary, Christmas parties; education workshop for

3,000 teachers, donation of science laboratory equipment to schools, Ramadan and Easter celebrations.

Ashiwaju added that the rationale behind its 2015 plan was in line with the company’s objective of ensuring maximum consumer satisfaction.

The sampling exercise, according to Ashiwaju, would be strategically executed not only to serve as a feedback mechanism, but to further strengthen the bond between the brand and consumers. In addition, it would assist the brand in aligning its offerings more accurately in meeting consumers’ expectation.

“Dufil Prima Foods Plc prides itself in embarking on initiatives that enable us to

give back to society. This is because we cherish our loyal consumers, as our existence is based on their continuous patronage. These various activities are conducted every year as a way of saying ‘thank you’ to consumers for their unflinching support,” he said.

The sampling of seven millions consumers this year will give potential customers a firsthand experience of the brand, which could change their opinions and make them to become new loyalists of the brand, while at the same time sustaining existing consumers. The various activities lined up for the year will reproduce a store experience in consumers’ homes.

“The sampling exercise is a continuous

and regular activity implemented at different touch points and locations across the nation. It runs across all the various festive seasons throughout the year such as Easter, Ramadan, Christmas etc and also during brand sponsored events/ activities such as the Indomie Fan Club birthday parties, Children’s Day party, donation exercises as well as other sponsorship programmes,” he said.

The sampling exercise is usually conducted using all the various Stock Keeping Units of the brand, namely: Indomie Chicken Flavour (70g); Onion Chicken Flavour (70g); the Super Pack 120grams (chicken flavor) and Indomie Pepper Chicken Flavour (70g).

Infinix, TD-Mobile seal new deal Kunle Azeez

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nfinix Mobile has signed a partnership distribution agreement with TD-Mobile, a technology distribution company in the country, in a bid to promote the former’s sales.

The partnership will see Infinix leverage on TD-Mobile’s nationwide network to increase the market share of its range of smart phones in Nigeria’s highly futuristic mobile devices market.

TD-Mobile, a subsidiary of Technology Distributions Ltd, will add Infinix to a wide product portfolio currently distributed, which include phablets, tablets and smart phones from renowned brands such as HP, Lenovo, Dell, Zinox, Nokia and Toshiba, among others.

Infinix mobile gadgets are products from a Hong-Kong based joint venture between Mobiwire (formerly Sagem Wireless) and Earningway.

Infinix smart phones such as the Infinix Zero, Race Lite and Infinix Hot X507, among others, have become increasingly popular in Nigeria owing to the added functionality of power banks, which offers the user a longer battery life.

Speaking on the development, Managing Director of TD-Mobile, Mrs. Gozy Ijogun, expressed delight at the signing on of Infinix, noting that this will offer the consumers more choices in the market place.

She said: “We are delighted to add Infinix to the extensive list of Original Equipment Manufacturers whose products are presently being distributed by us on the continent.

“TD-Mobile has been in the fore-front of driving technological revolution in Africa by bridging the digital divide with affordable smart devices, which offer a unique user experience.

“The new partnership agreement with Infinix will go a long way in helping us expand the frontiers of access to quality and pocketfriendly smart devices for many.”

She added: “As we have done with other major brands we distribute, we will leverage on our excellent distribution network and presence in major cities to make Infinix products readily available and accessible to the customer, thereby ensuring that more people can benefit from the wide range of quality devices Infinix has to offer.”

Launched with an eye on the future of smart technologies, Ijogun said TD-Mobile has quickly acquired a reputation as a prime distributor of smart mobile devices, which come with unique guarantee of online serial number confirmations that allows user authentication of all mobile devices.

“The company has also carried on the legacy of its parent company, Technology Distributions Limited, by distributing only genuine products sourced directly from the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs),” she added.

L-R: Director-General, Lagos State Pensions Commission (LASPEC),Mr. Rotimi Hussain; Beneficiary, Mr. Ayobade Obajimi; Chairman, LASPEC, Mr. Babatunde Dabiri and Commissioner for Establishments. Training & Pensions, Mrs. Florence Oguntuase during the presentation of bond certificate at LASPEC 16th Bond Certificate in Lagos

Global Alliance praises NIPR

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hair of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, the worldwide body of public relations institutes and associations, Prof. Anne Gregory, has commended the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and its President, Dr. Rotimi Oladele, for supporting the global body.

Gregory in a letter to the NIPR president, through the Coordinator of International Collaboration, Mr. Kunle Ogedengbe, thanked Oladele for the organisation’s support.

Gregory said: “I’m writing to thank you personally for your membership and support for the Global Alliance. Our continued alliance presents a unique opportunity for public relations and communication professionals to think, speak and act together to raise the status of our global profession.

“Last year has been exciting. We have continued to build a vibrant, global professional community more able to realize its potential and in a stronger position to achieve the recognition it deserves.”

While emphasising that more of these could not have been done without the support of the NIPR, she underlined the success of the 2014 World Public Relations Forum in Madrid Spain where Oladele chaired one of the sessions.

She thanked Oladele for personally being in Madrid and underlined the need for public relations practitioners to be leaders not just in building communicative organisa-

tions but also in contributing to the society as the hallmark of the Madrid Forum with the theme: Communication with Conscience.

In 2016, Gregory, a professor of corporate communication at Huddersfield University United Kingdom, said the World Public Relations Forum would hold in Toronto Canada with the theme, ‘Communication across Cultures.’

He urged all public relations and communication practitioners around the world

to attend in order to promote the frontier of the profession.

She stressed that the Global Alliance initiated several projects in 2014 and these projects will be moved forward this year.

The Global Alliance chair said NIPR’s support made these global activities possible and that the membership of the Global Alliance by Nigeria, the largest economy and biggest market in Africa, is vital to the advancement of the public relations profession in the world.

Etisalat’s Nigerian Idol 5 premieres

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tisalat Nigeria sponsored Nigerian Idol has premiered in Lagos.

Head Events and Sponsorships, Etisalat Nigeria, Modupe Thani, said in a statement made available to Sunday Telegraph that Etisalat was proud to be associated with the Nigerian Idol. She described the Nigerian Idol as a platform that affords youths the chance to express themselves through music and take their dreams to the next level.

She also said Etisalat had put in place an interesting show for viewers and audience this season.

“As a brand, we consider the youths as a critical audience and we are passionate about what drives them. This year’s edition promises to be one of the

best shows ever, because we have put so much in place to give the audience and viewers an all-round exciting experience.

This season, we will be giving away premium prizes not just to the winner, but also to the runners-up and others in the top 10 positions,” she said.

Etisalat Nigeria has sponsored Nigerian Idol for four seasons.

This season, the winner of Nigerian Idol will be rewarded with N7.5 million, a brand new car and a recording deal with Universal Music Company worth N7.5 million amongst other prizes.

The show is scheduled to begin airing on March 1st on TV stations across the country.

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SUNDAY

31

Politics SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

The Sunday Interview

Olanipekun to Obasanjo: Quit politics honourably now p.32-33

Raging controversies over card readers

Analysis

Niger and Nasko’s popularity p.35

Interview

APC ‘ll dislodge PDP from Abia, says Anyim p.38

INEC card reader

Analysis

Elechi, Umahi and the raging fire p.39

Ballot box

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Biyi Adegoroye biyi.fire@yahoo.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

rofessor Attahiru Jega, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission may have given himself thumbs up, two weeks ago, after his appearance before the members of the Senate. This was not informed by his ability to convince them on why the February 14 and 28 general elections were rescheduled by six weeks, but by his proficiency in clearing any doubt entertained by the senators on the workability of the card readers the commission is proposing to use to accredit voters during the general elections.

Before Jega’s appearance on the floor of the Senate, some senators were sceptical about the workability of the machine. Others were also of the view that the deployment of the card readers for the elections was in breach of Section 52 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).

Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba had in a motion requesting for the invitation of the INEC Chairman to give reason for the shift in the election dates, said “it is necessary that Jega brings the card readers here to demonstrate how it works to us”.

Senator Ndoma-Egbo, a member of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party from Cross River State, was obviously toeing the party line.

PDP is not favourably disposed to the use of card readers for the elections. At a press conference on February 10, the Director-General of PDP Presidential Campaign Organisation, Senator Ahmadu Ali wondered how INEC intends to handle the cases of faulty card readers, especially as there were re-

Jega

The insistence of the Independent National Electoral Commission on the use of card readers in the conduct of the forthcoming general elections has continued to elicit divergent views among stakeholders in the electoral process, writes ONYEKACHI EZE ports that the machines were not fully distributed and tested.

“INEC is to be blamed for failing to educate the voters on the new methodology it is using.

Is there anybody here who has seen the card reader? If journalists who have been reporting these things have not seen a card reader how much more people in the local government areas.

“INEC ought to have tried out the card readers first before introducing it. A card reader works for only eight hours,” Senator Ali said.

National Chairman of PDP, Adamu Mu’azu also accused INEC of trying to use Nigerians as guinea pig through the use of the card readers.

Unlike the PDP, the APC is insisting that the card reader should be used in the general elections. The Director-General of APC Presidential Campaign Organisation, Governor Rotimi Amaechi, in a statement said the card readers should be used “for authenticating the propriety of the Permanent Voter’s Card.

“These, in our estimation as a credible party, remain the irreducible minimum that must form the basis for the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections on March 28 and April 11.

“Aside the huge financial investment involved in the procurement of the card readers, the desire to hoodwink the Nigerians on this anti-rigging device, is not just subterranean but an affront on the independence of the electoral body.”

And for Kayode Ajulo, National Secretary of Labour Party, “It’s an all-inclusive voting method that will enable all eligible voters to participate in the election. We do not mind whether it is the PVC or the TVC or both, but what the party is seeking is that no voter must be disenfranchised on the account of sticking to any of the methods.

“We believe the card reader being introduced

by INEC may not be entirely effective considering it’s an electronic device that reads the data in a medium or card for the purpose of verifying CONTINUED ON PAGE 37

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The Sun

Olanipekun to Obas Quit politics honou Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association and highly respected lawyer, Chief Wole Olanipekun, (SAN), in this interview with BIYI ADEGOROYE, examines the implications of the postponement of the elections and the recent actions of former President Olusegun Obasanjo What is your reaction to the postponement of the general elections?

I will address the issue as a lawyer and as a stakeholder in the Nigerian enterprise. Statutorily and constitutionally, the Independent National Electoral Commission is vested with wide powers in the organisation, management and supervision of the electoral process. For the first time in Nigeria, we have what we label the Independent National Electoral Commission. In the Second Republic, we had the Federal Electoral Commission, not Independent National Electoral Commission. During the time of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida dove-tailing into the regime of Sani Abacha, we had the National Electoral Commission.

The word ‘independent’ never appeared in the statutes. So, whether deliberately or otherwise or in an attempt to deceive ourselves, we added the word, ‘independent.’ When you look at Section 153 (1) of the Constitution, that provision establishes 14 bodies for the Federation, including the Council of State, National Judicial Council, Police Service Commission and the Council of State. And that Section 153 (1) (f) provides for the creation of INEC. The Constitution vests a lot of powers, duties and responsibilities in it.

And further into the Constitution, the chairman of the commission is said to have the same kind of powers and privileges and is on the same pedestal with the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Justices of the Supreme Court in order to guarantee its independence. I dare say that INEC enjoys the same constitutional leverage with the Council of State. Now when you look at the Electoral Act itself (as amended from time to time), to specifically address your question, Section 26 (1) says that the commission itself has the power, the latitude, in its own wisdom and perception, without being prompted by anybody, and after considering various parameters, and environmental disasters which we call ‘Act of God,’ to postpone elections. And what does that section say? It is better I read it to you. It says: “Where a date has been appointed for the holding of an election and there is reason (by INEC), to believe that a serious breach of the peace is likely to occur if the election is proceeded with on that day, or it is impossible to conduct the elections as a result of natural disasters or other emergencies, the commission may postpone the election, and shall in respect of the areas concerned, appoint another day for the election, provided that such reason for the postponement is cogent.” That is the law. The reason must be cogent. It must be feasible.

And the law goes further to say that if INEC is of the view that conducting election in such areas might not affect the overall result of the election substantially, then INEC might declare a return, though subject to a challenge in the law court. Now, the law permits INEC to postpone elections under the circumstances that I have read out to you, which include: breakdown of law and order, breach of peace and environmental disasters. The reasons must be cogent enough and plausible. And these reasons should be given ahead of time. For instance, INEC postponed the 2011 National

Assembly elections midway, around 1pm. (On that day, I had already cast my vote), but people took it in good faith because it was done by INEC without any prompting from anywhere. Now, elections all over the world are very important. The world has become a global village and Nigeria has become a leading partaker in world affairs. In the UN, Nigeria’s position is prominent, more prominent than we think, than we even imagine. Among the countries of the world, Nigeria is one of the largest. In the black race, Nigeria is the largest. So whatever happens in Nigeria draws the attention of the entire world. In effect, the entire world was aware that Nigeria was to hold its presidential and National Assembly elections on February 14. All ears on ground, all eyes opened, but a few days to the polls, the National Council of State met and asked INEC to liaise with the security agencies to see whether it was possible for INEC to hold elections. Before that time, kites had been flown, starting with the National Security Adviser, saying, not even in Nigeria, but in London, that for security reasons, INEC should consider postponing the elections.

A lot of people took off from there, joining issues, for and against. Schools of thought emerged even across political lines, curves and cleavages. Those of us who constitute the majority of voters in this country, (let me correct an impression, majority of voters in this country neither belong to the PDP nor the APC, and I belong to that category) are the potent force. Call us fringe voters, call us fringe PVC carriers, but we constitute the majority, because we have a huge stake in this enterprise called Nigeria. We were looking forward to February 14 to cast our votes but the INEC chairman suddenly postponed the elections, stating that security agencies could not guarantee the security of the process.

Why do you think he said so?

Now, it was not INEC that was saying it, because I read its chairman’s lips and body language. He was saying although we are ready, the security agencies said for security reasons, the elections should not hold. To me as a lawyer, I will say that the postponement of the elections was not

Olanipekun

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

nday Interview

sanjo: urably now within the ambit of Section 26 (1) of the Electoral Act. It was not also within the anticipation of the Act, because it was not done by INEC per se. Again, let us look at it, where a date has been appointed, and the Constitution itself says that it is INEC that shall appoint a date for the holding of an election. Section 132 (1) of the Constitution says that “The election to the office the President shall be held on a date to be appointed by INEC in accordance with the Electoral Act.” The date of election is not taken

by INEC to satisfy anybody. It is not fixed by INEC after permission is granted by the powers that be. Ideally, INEC should be free of all influences.

So I want to submit that INEC didn’t take that decision to postpone the election and if it did, INEC took the decision outside the purview of the Electoral Act. Since nobody is challenging it, let us fold our arms and prepare for the elections. And again let me add as a statesman and lawyer that INEC is not independent. If INEC were to be independent then this problem would not have occurred. Have you heard of an election being postponed in the United States of America? Section 1 of CAP 1 of the 3 US Code, which deals with holding of elections.

It’s not as

clear as ours. Ours says election must be conducted not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the date of inauguration.

But theirs says that “the electors of President and Vice President shall be appointed in each state on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November of every fourth year, succeeding every election of President and vice Presidents.”

This has been there for centuries and that is the provision for election in the U.S. Let’s go back to history. In 1845, when this date was chosen, the United States was largely agrarian, so, factors like the end of the harvest season and the fact that the winter-storms won’t have begun were considered. More so, Sunday was not chosen because of church services, Monday was not chosen because farmers often needed a full day to travel by horse drawn carts to where they will vote, and Wednesday was not chosen because it served as market days in most of the counties. That is why they put it on Tuesday, not even on the first day of the month.

That Tuesday is registered in the psyche and sub-consciousness of every American because this date has never changed. We have to know what happens in the advanced democracies of the world and what makes them tick. In the United Kingdom, there is obedience to the tenor, intention and sprit of the law. There is also what is called ‘The Fixed-Term Parliament Act of 2011,’ which mandates dissolution of the present parliament on March 30, 2015 and provides further that election will be conducted on May 7, 2015, unless, the House of Commons votes for an earlier date. In other words, election can be held earlier than May 7, but not later. If you look at the election that was held in India, the largest democracy in the world, and just as you are aware that the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, was a newspaper vendor, and later, a trained journalist who became the Prime Minister of the largest democracy in the world; with about 800 million voters, election date was not changed. If you keep on changing the date of elections, people will lose confidence in the outcome of the election. Enthusiasm will die, and it affects the economy too.

If this is done in America, but they won’t do it, it would affect the New York Stock Exchange. And if it affects the New York Stock Exchange, then it will affect the economy of the entire world. In the same vein, it has affected ours and more so, this is a nation where our federalism is upside down. Lastly, if the elections were postponed for security reasons under Section 26(1) of the Electoral Act, INEC should have restricted the postponement to the areas under security threat, rescheduling the elections thereat for 28th March, and not the entire country.

What impact will the shift have on the time set out for tribunals to discharge election petitions and perhaps, give

their judgments within the set time limit?

It will have an immense impact. Let’s remind ourselves that Section 132 (2) of the Constitution (as amended) provides that elections should be held not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before inauguration. This was done to allow those who would want to challenge the results of the elections to do so. If possible, conclude the matter before the person is sworn in.

But now, the elections have been postponed, though the postponement is still within the constitutional window allowed for the conduct of elections. I must agree with that, but at the same time, we have to consider a lot of factors and variables.

In Nigeria, people don’t agree with the result of elections. This is bad enough and it takes me to one fundamental issue, which I mentioned earlier, in an attempt to answer your first question. INEC is not independent and it’s not only INEC. We are talking about security agencies, ministries, Immigration, Customs and all of them. We have a very peculiar situation and unfortunately, none of the gladiators and political parties is addressing the Nigerian questions.

Everybody wants to take power without addressing the fundamental questions, which have to do with the un-federal nature of Nigeria’s federalism. The Nigerian federation is upside down. In fact, I’m not aware of any unitary government that is more unitary than Nigeria. We should change the constitutional description of Federal Republic of Nigeria to Federal Unitary Republic of Nigeria. Why do we deceive ourselves? It’s better. Everything starts and ends at the centre. Awesome powers! I say it again, though the President of America is the most powerful public office-holder in the world, but the Nigerian President is the most powerful President in the world. There is no other President that enjoys such awesome powers that have been vested in the Nigerian president.

Barack Obama is there, perceived as the most powerful President in the world, but when you go to America, he is just ordinary.

The Nigerian President is not ordinary. He has been made super-human by our awkward type of federalism. You and I cannot budget for our own businesses and offices except the President presents his own budget and same is passed into law. I listened to President Goodluck Jonathan’s interview on Aljazeera Television Network, and he was asked if the INEC chairman would be removed. He said the INEC Chairman and State Resident Electoral Commissioners are his appointees. To me, Mr. President was simply saying that he could hire and fire the INEC chairman and the commissioners; that cannot be right! They are not Mr. President’s appointees or employees. Their tenures are certain and definitive, they are not errand boys who can be employed and sacked at anytime. Their appointments enjoy constitutional and statutory flavours. They are not like ministers at the federal level or commissioners at the state level. The question that begs for answer is: is INEC truly independent? If it had decided to conduct the elections, willy-nilly, on that day and the security agencies decided not to show up (I am not saying they would not have), or if there was chaos somewhere, and the security agencies failed to cooperate, the elections would have flopped.

The cold reality is that INEC is not independent.

Our federation is not federal at all; everything we have here is against the principles, ethics, ethos and basic ingredients of federalism. Now, how do we get out of this? We are running away from the Nigerian questions and a number of us are still asking for more states, when many states are not productive.

When you are asking for more states, you are weakening the federation. There is no other country in the world where governors converge on the nation’s capital every month or fortnightly, like ours do. I know many governors in the US, who don’t step into Washington in years. What are they going there to do? They have work to do. Most of our governors spend their time in Abuja; how then do they govern?

Everybody is looking for power that will not help this country. They should come and heal this land. The joblessness and insecurity are the outworking of neglect, corruption and wasteful governance.

Olanipekun

With all respect to former President Obasanjo, I have come to the conclusion that he portrays himself as the only person who is good, who is right, the only person who can do things properly, the only person who can govern Most of our governors spend half of their tenure in Abuja - doing what? Do they govern through magic wands, through supernatural means, without being domiciled in their states? I am not actually blaming them because a peculiar situation has been foisted on them. They have to go to Abuja to see the Minister of Water Resources, to see the Minister of Power; they have to go there to see even directors! And when you talk about security, is it true governors are the Chief Security Officers of their states? No. The President is the Chief Security Officer of every state and local government area in Nigeria. Why? He appoints the Inspector General of Police who deploys Commissioners of Police; the Commissioners of Police in turn deploy DPOs and Area Commanders whose loyalty is first and foremost to Mr. President. Even the ADCs to the Governors are appointees of Mr. President. And when we say let’s talk about state police; let’s talk about a parliamentary system, nobody wants to listen. Today, we are in a Portuguese parliament - noise everywhere and no one is making any point. Nobody is addressing the Nigerian question. Everybody is dodging it, everybody is angling for power. Power for what? Power that will not solve the current problems; power that will not even help our children; power that is postponing the evil day for the country. One would have expected that each of the presidential candidates will be asked to address the Nigerian question. That is why we have joblessness in the country; that is why we have insurgency and chronic insecurity, as embodied and represented by the Boko Haram sect. Part of the Nigerian question that we have not addressed is that everybody now sees the Presidency as belonging to the particular sectional or ethnic group rather than being for all of us. That it is the time for you and I to, in the language of politicians ‘chop’. When my man is there, then our area will benefit. In 19981999, the then owners of Nigeria thought they were doing the South West Yorubas a favour by foisting General Obasanjo on us as President, and his tenure would benefit the Yorubas, and soothe the pains of the nullification of Abiola’s presidential victory and eventual death. Unfortunately, this did not happen.

But the Yoruba people did not vote from him…?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

‘Nigerian politics is now a do-or-perish affair’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 3

It does not matter. He was imposed on us as our representative and a Nigerian President coming from our zone. Today, the Ijaws see President Jonathan as one of their own.

Although he is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but the Ijaws are saying ‘this is our own time;’ ‘this is our own tenure’, and by extension, the entire South- South has appropriated him. Some of them have become conspicuous and they are saying it is our own time, but is that the way it should be? I believe the President of Nigeria should not be pigeonholed within any ethnic enclave. If I ask you today, ‘what state does Obama come from?’ Despite the fact that you are a highbred journalist, you will still rack your brain before you give me an answer. Bill Clinton is from a small state and he governed America for eight years and nobody remembers where he is from. George Bush, initially the family came from Houston, Texas. He was governor there and throughout the eight years he was president, he never went there. So we have not got to a stage where we will say that our fidelity is to the nation.

Even as we prepare for the elections, we are having cases of pre-election violence. The National Human Rights Commission said about 58 people have been killed thus far.

What does this portend for the elections?

Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, the Chairman of the NHRC, is a young man I respect so much.

Very brilliant and articulate, but with respect to him, I want to say that the figure he gave is too conservative. In Nigeria, what I have come to realise is that we don’t have accurate records, we don’t have the statistics. What I am saying is that it could not have been 52 from what you and I have been reading in newspapers and watching on television. Just a few days ago, you heard about blasts occurring in Rivers State. That is not right. The way we are going about these elections is not civilised, it is ungodly. It is wicked and this idea of do-ordie politics (with all respect again, somebody brought this into our political lexicon), is very wrong. If you want to serve me, must you do so by force? Leadership is about sacrifice, but again because of the Nigerian factor, if you are a governor, you automatically become a multi-millionaire, and if you are president, you become a billionaire. You distribute the national largesse, you control the entire commonwealth. Everybody bows to you, everybody cringes. We are not learning, even from the neighbouring countries. I have taken you to America, Britain and India. Look at nearby Ghana. What exactly is in political offices, that elections become a do-or-die affair? It is even worse now, it is now do-or-perish, do-or be vanquished. In nearby Ghana, elections have been freely and smoothly conducted over and over again since the country returned to constitutional democracy. They have not at anytime thrown explosives, planted bombs at venues of political rallies, killed, bombed or maimed anybody or used machetes, cudgels and guns as means of communication. I go to Ghana often and I have observed that the place is so peaceful; they have national ethics, they respect humanity. But in Nigeria, there is no respect for humanity, there is no respect for the human life. That is why you see people unleash terror and mayhem at campaign rallies when people are supposedly listening to manifestos. They kill them, inflict excruciating pains. Why are we so desperate? Is this the democracy – once defined by a former American President as the government of the people, for the people and by the people? Is democracy practised in this manner, anywhere else in the world? Is it nurtured or nourished this way?

I want to ask a question, this is very important and it is directed to all these politicians.

Our leaders are supposed to be role models to younger generations. I grew up in the SouthWest and when we were young, we had role models amongst the politicians. Whatever anybody might say, Chief Obafemi Awolowo

Olanipekun

What exactly is in political offices, that elections become a do-or-die affair?

It is even worse now, it is now do-or-perish, do-or be vanquished In nearby Ghana, elections have been freely and smoothly conducted over and over again since the country returned to constitutional democracy was a role model. Chief Bode Thomas, Chief Ladoke Akintola and many others were role models. They talked at rallies and we listened, even as kindergartens. In those days also, our principals and teachers were allowed to play politics on part-time basis. They were not millionaires. They were not stealing from the public till. We should be improving, but sadly, we are retrogressing today, we are retarding, and we are crossing the red line. If these politicians were footballers, all of them would have been shown the red card – suspended for life, because they would have picked the yellow card many times. Honestly, they should give Nigeria and Nigerians some peace. They should be told in clear terms that if politics is for service, then they are not playing politics of service.

If democracy is to enhance and promote the living standard of the people, they are doing exactly the opposite of all of these. In the process of doing so, they are infecting other arms of government. They do this either directly or indirectly, advertently or inadvertently.

For the first time now, we are bringing the military into politics. The military is getting involved, the military is making statements, it shouldn’t be. Again, in my own profession, the legal profession, they are getting judges involved in matters that should not ordinarily concern them. They take all sorts of cases, even things that will make the sailor-boy blush, to court. In the process, we are getting the judiciary involved in politics. It is unfair. We cannot continue to pray and expect things to change; we cannot be living in sin and expect grace to abound. You see, we need to act, because the way Nigeria is going we might even be provoking God. We are doing bad things and we keep praying. Even right at the prayer ground, we see people with guns, machetes and explosives leading to burning of places

of worship and killing of adherents. There is actually now murder in the cathedral, apologies to T.S. Elliot. What are we looking for?

What is our goal?

Did this issue of involvement of judges in politics inform the Chief Justice of the Federation’s charge to tribunal chairmen recently to be circumspect in handling political cases?

It was when the judges of the tribunals were being sworn in, in anticipation that the elections might hold on February 14. The judiciary did not want to be caught napping. The CJN gave them the charge, and commendably so in my own estimation, never to allow the judiciary to be used to truncate democracy.

He said: “Never again, never again, will the judiciary be used to truncate our democracy.” Now, if you interpret the language, it means that Nigerian judges had been used for that purpose in the past - during the Sani Abacha era. The judiciary was used to annul Chief MKO Abiola’s election through an exparte order. And I want to plead, as a senior member of the Bar, ordinarily I should not be talking about myself, but (I have been in this profession since 1976, and I took the silk in 1991. I have been president of the Nigerian Bar Association and left that office gloriously in 2004), I think I can advise members of my profession. All of us, both at the Bar and on the Bench must watch what we do, and we must not allow our profession to be used to stultify our nation’s democracy. And again, let us be wary of exparte applications and orders. By the way, why would a lawyer apply for exparte orders in matters involving qualification or disqualification of an aspirant to a political office? Why are we in a hurry?

Why would any lawyer be afraid of putting other parties on notice, particularly on sensitive political matters which can make or mar our crawling democracy? Why do you want to steal a match - especially in a political matter? It is not done, and it is not fair. I dare say that in no other nation in the world are these kinds of things allowed or practised. And that is why I support, with every pint of blood in me, the admonition and warning of the CJN to the tribunal chairmen. I am not aware of any country in the world where the judiciary stops the holding of election, or directs its postponement.

No court can order the people not to exercise their franchise. No court has that jurisdiction.

What is your reaction to the manner former President Olusegun Obasanjo dumped the PDP, his recent utterances about President Goodluck Jonathan, as well as some of his recent actions?

Well, let me say this, Chief Obasanjo is an elder, and he has been my President twice; and as a Yoruba man, I respect him. But again as a Yoruba man, I beg to differ from the way and manner he does a lot of things, right from the time he was President of the country. I was the counsel to Atiku Abubakar when Obasanjo removed him as the Vice President. I was one of the lawyers who assisted Chief FRA Williams when Obasanjo impounded the funds of local governments in Lagos State. I was the leading counsel when he promoted the impeachment of Governor Rasheed Ladoja in Oyo State, and even when we got judgment in court, he refused, for a while, to obey it. I also handled some cases when as President, he over-ruled some Resident Electoral Commissioners in states as per the returns they made, asking them to come to Abuja to make contrary returns. We have evidence of these. All I want to say is that Chief Obasanjo is a Christian who has enjoyed God’s grace in abundance. When you look at the entire Bible, apart from Nebuchadnezzar, I am not aware of any king who was dethroned but came back. Even when Nebuchadnezzar was forgiven and restored to his throne, nothing was said or heard about him any longer.

Obasanjo should, therefore, be thanking God every day, for God’s abundant grace on him.

We should all have at the back of our minds that our children need to make role models out of our leaders. Today, we are getting into troubled waters because, unlike during our time, when as children we were aiming to be like some of the then leaders when we grow up, our children are not been well guided and stimulated by a good chunk of our present leaders. You see, with all due respect, our leaders should cultivate the idea of ‘do as I do, not just as I say’ and it is a popular saying in Yoruba that Orisa bi o ba le gbe mi, fi mi sile bi mo se wa (Deity, if you cannot support me, leave me the way you met me). Under the present Nigerian arrangement, vintage political offices are rotated among the six zones created by Abacha, starting with the President. Obasanjo has appropriated the eight years allocated to the South-West, meaning that he has appropriated my own allocation and those of my generation within the Nigerian arrangement.

If the rotation cycle continues, no Yoruba man from my zone can become President of Nigeria in the next 40 years. This means no young man of about the age of 30 from that zone can nurse a presidential ambition. It’s painful and demoralising. The General should do things and take steps to pacify us rather than making us think that we are damn too lucky to have him. On 11th November, 2002, when leading members of the NBA NEC and some highly reputable leaders of the Bar on a courtesy visit to President Obasanjo, I pleaded with him that he should emulate the late President Nelson Mandela by spending just one term of four or five years in office and allow the Nigerian rotational cycle to evolve. He took it personally against me and the NBA which I led. Had he heeded the NBA’s advice, Nigeria would have been a more stabilised country and democracy by now.

I have read through the book, ‘My Watch.’

Is it fair for Chief Obasanjo to talk ill of Chief Obafemi Awolowo who died in 1987? You go and read what he said about Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Wole Soyinka, Atiku Abubakar and every other person. Again, with all respect, I want to plead with the former President to apply the brakes. Nigeria wants to benefit from his experience. I am not a PDP member and I could not have been, but what I am saying is that Chief Obasanjo had all the opportunities to re-arrange Nigeria, because God did not call him to be president for the second time in vain.

He had every opportunity to fight corruption, to ensure strong succession, good succession while he was leaving office. He had every opportunity to set a record, to put standards in place. Look, every human being is prone to doing what is wrong, but when you have strong institutions, then every person will CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

Politics

Niger and Nasko’s popularity As Nigerians countdown to the general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate in Niger State, Alhaji Umar Nasko, 39, if elected, will be the youngest civilian governor to lead the state. This has been a subject of discussions among electorate who express hopes and worries over his ability to rise to the demands of the office. DAN ATORI reports on his chances especially in a state that parades two former Heads of States

A

s the race for various elective positions at national or state levels gets hotter by the day, the situation in Niger State is even feistier.

The battle for the governorship race in the state is a straight fight between Alhaji Umar Nasko, who enjoys the full support of the outgoing governor Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, and the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Abubakar Sani Bello popularly known as ‘Abu Lolo.’

Less than two months to the election, the argument making the rounds is that Nasko will not have a firm grip on the government if elected, and some are apprehensive that his election will be a continuation of Governor Aliyu’s administration, which they seem to be uncomfortable with.

However, most political analysts and indeed Niger State indigenes have pitched their tents with him saying, he is a young and vibrant candidate who performed creditably in different offices he had held in the last few years.

Since his foray into government, Nasko has served in various capacities in state, the last of which is Chief of Staff to Governor Aliyu. In 2007, when he was first appointed as a Commissioner in the state, Nasko was just 32 years old. He had earlier served on the Transition Committee in the state in 2007 and was a member of the Niger State Government Committee on Public, Private Partnership that same year.

He later served as chairman, Vehicle Verification Committee in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government and a member of the Technical Committee on Harmonisation of Niger State Action Plan. He was Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the 2009 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), member of the Niger State Executive Council in his official capacity serving at various times as the Commissioner of Tourism and Culture, Commissioner of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Commissioner of Youth Development, Special Adviser on Tourism Matters, Commissioner, Ministry of Environment, Parks, Gardens and Forest Resources.

For his part, Abu Lolo sits atop a multibillion naira family business and was also a political greenhorn who served on the cabinet of Governor Aliyu as Commissioner for Commerce and Investments, but fell out with him years ago over issues of policy that endeared him to the people.

But reacting to the insinuations about Nyako’s candidacy, Director, Media and Publicity, Umar Nasko Campaign Organisation, Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya said the difference between Abu Lolo and Umar Nasko is something too obvious even to apolitical non-residents of the state.

He said: “Abu Lolo is incurably elitist and inaccessible to the people he is aspiring to govern. The only place he’s easily seen is at Polo Fields in Kaduna, which is more like his main base, and in the circle of some highclass friends landing in Minna Airport on private jets, while his people only see and interact with him on surfaces of his many billboards and posters across the state.

“In terms of street credibility, Nasko is over and ahead of the opposition. He has devised effective grassroots mobilisation strategies going from town to town and village to village, interacting with people to really understand their wants and needs and also assuring them of his government’s intention to carry them along.

“Nasko’s style of politics is actually a

Nasco

tutorial for those idle, quarrelsome and ideologically empty politicians who avoid the difficult aspects of political aspirations, which is presentation of issues and visions, by dragging refined people to their level of indignity through the gutter fights they always initiate just to be seen as political gladiators of their own delusions”.

Kuta added: “As it stands right now in Niger State, the contest is between issue and non-issue, between reality and pretence, between popularity and envy, between humility and arrogance, between a people’s choice and a condescending aspirant, and unless any candidate is able to match both the street credibility of Nasko among the grassroots and also among the elite and yet befriend both the youth and the old, all propaganda fashioned against Nasko is mischievous and futile”.

From all indications, the family of former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida is in full support for Nasko’s emergence as the first son of the General, Mohammed, is the Director of Finance of Nasko’s campaign team.

A political analyst and an industrialist in the state, Alhaji Isah Mohammed said although, Nasko has the qualities and all it takes to defeat his opponent Abubakar Sani Bello of the All Progressives Congress in the forthcoming general elections and also becoming a better governor, but that he may end up working on his mentor’s (Aliyu) script thereby shelving his own ideals.

He said “I have listened and watched him closely, before and during his campaigns. I am also aware of his antecedents. The young man worked and delivered while he was Commissioner at various Ministries in the state. My worries are simple, since he is associated with the Governor Aliyu-led administration viewed by many as ‘full of promises, yet with few deliveries’, he might have some challenges because some of the people in the

state may not vote him for continuity.

“Nasko’s election would be a continuation of Governor Aliyu’s administration, his boss and mentor who anointed him which I know many people are tired of”.

A cross section of commuters and civil servants in the state declared they will give their votes to Nasko going by the role he played in ensuring thousands of youths got employed through his ‘Green Guard’ initiative.

A taxi driver popularly called ‘Baba Mutum’ said “I will vote him because he is humble. The APC candidate is showing that he is not for us the common people. He is very proud. Even my friends and co-drivers we use to discuss and almost everybody said they will vote for Nasko for governor and vote Buhari for President”.

A tricycle rider, Suleiman Isah who had APC stickers and Nasko’s picture on his ‘Keke’ said that “Nasko is the Sarki Aiki of the state.” We ‘Keke’ riders will vote for him because he helped many of us to get Keke and also my brother got a job through him.”

Nasko, fondly described by many as “Sarkin Aiki”, meaning ‘Chief worker’, said people’s lives have been transformed like never before due to renovation of roads, schools, market stalls, boreholes and other infrastructural facilities when he was appointed by the Niger State Government as the Coordinator of the Ward Development Project in Magama Local Government Area.

Some civil servants described the fears and insinuations that he is young as unfortunate and wondered why people could talk or think towards that direction. A director in one of the Ministries where Nasko served as Commissioner, said Niger people will be making a big mistake if they fail to vote Nasko as governor because, according to him “I was so touched when I worked with him when he was Commissioner, he brought in innovations, he listened to our

suggestions and today he is remembered for the good legacies.

“Some people have been talking about age, what is in the age? How many years older is Abu Lolo to Nasko? I have taken a critical look at both candidates, although I have not worked with Sani Bello but I can tell you that Nasko is a better candidate because he is a worker, an achiever and down-to-earth.”

The Chairman of the PDP in the state, Alhaji Musa Ma’ali told our correspondent that in a political journey, what is important is not the age of a contestant but the quality of the age. “Nasko will win because Niger people are ready to give him their votes.

In all of our campaigns, the response and reception have been tremendous as even royal fathers, women, various student and youth groups including elders in the state have endorsed him.

Also, the Niger State Commissioner for Information and Strategy Mallam Danladi Ndayebo said that Nasko has upper hands than Sani Bello, adding that Niger people will vote for the PDP candidate based on evidence.

The Chairman of the APC in the state, Mohammed Jibril Imam, is nonetheless upbeat about Abu Lolo’s popularity and promised to unseat the PDP in the state. “He is a successful businessman who has also held political positions. He has better chances of clinching the number one seat in the state.

Everywhere we have been to in the state, the people screamed his name and they cannot wait to go to the polls,” he said.

However, while assuring the people of the state of his capability and capacity to weather the storm, if there will be any at all, Nasko told our correspondent that he will be 40 years old soon and” in a country where life expectancy is put at less than 50 years, a 40-year-old cannot be too young to serve as a state governor.”

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SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

‘Orji, Elechi performed poorly in South-East’

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Chijioke Iremeka resident of Ndigbo Unity Forum Worldwide, Augustine Chukwudum, has said that President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration has not met the needs of Ndigbo and the South-East region because of his failure to deliver on his election promises Chukwudum, who also lamented about the poor performance South-East governors, said Ndigbo Unity Forum, a pan Igbo social-cultural organisation founded by vibrant young Igbos of like minds, will soon hold the governors to account.

He said, “I want to say it again, the President has failed to fulfill almost all his prom-

ises to the region. It’s shameful that Jonathan has relegated the development of the South-East zone to the back burner. This is a man that promised us Second Niger Bridge before 2015, but nothing has become of that project.”

Jonathan, he said, has also failed in delivering on other sectors. “Just take a trip from Onitsha to Awka, Nnewi to Amichi, Unubi to Okigwe and Aba Ikot Epene roads and you will see the death traps call federal roads. It’s also pitiable that no boat, not to mention ship has berthed at the so-called Onitsha Riverport Complex till today, yet he comes canvassing the votes of the region.”

On the performance of South-East gov-

ernors, Chukwudum stated that for the exception of Theodore Orji and Martins Elechi of Abia and Ebonyi states, respectively, who have poorly discharged their responsibilities, others have done fairly well in the region.

“Frankly speaking, notwithstanding the awful performance of governors Theodore Orji and Martins Elechi of Abia and Ebonyi states respectively, I can say without fear or favour that the other governors in the region have done fairly well. For instance, Governor Willy Obiano has done well in the security sector and also Governor Rochas Okorocha impacted the lives of our people positively through his free education programme,” he quipped.

According to him, it’s shameful that a country that arguably has between 15 and 20 per cent of world’s natural resources still has people that live below one dollar per day. “Personally, I believe that Federal and State governments can do better than they are doing now, by investing in the agricultural sector. It’s shameful that a country like Nigeria with the capacity to feed the whole Africa still import agricultural products.”

He said: “I also believe that both Federal and State governments can show some sensitiities to the plights of the common man, through building industrial estates and encouraging young entrepreneurs with SMEs loans as well as providing a conducive environment for them to thrive.”

On the open criticism of Jonathan by Rev Ejike Mbaka, he added that the cleric’s open criticism was in order as a good and concerned citizen of the country, saying that when a government is not doing well, it’s the duty of every well-meaning citizen to call the government to order.

“We all know that President Jonathan has not delivered on his numerous promises.”

Jonathan deserves second term –NYCN patron Stanley Ihedigbo

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Obaze

he Patron of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Bende Council chapter of Abia State, Chief Samuel Mmadubike, has appealed to Nigerian youths to vote for President Goodluck Jonathan, saying he deserves a second term.

Speaking with Sunday Telegraph in Umuimenyi Ward of Bende Council, where he donated N1 million for a football competition in the community, he said that Nigerian youths will have reasons to be proud of President Jonathan if they vote him in for a second term .

According to him, President Jonathan is the best of all the presidential candidates for now despite the challenges facing the nation.

He added that his style of leadership and transformation agenda will surely make Nigeria a better place.

Commenting on prospects of Abia State governorship candidate, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, of the People Democratic Party, Mmadubike described him as a young and youthful politician with vision for the state.

He said Ikpeazu not only represents generational shift, but also dynamism, adding that his emergence will stave enmity because all the zones in the state have produced the governor.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

Politics

Reps’ morale booster for military From the

Green Chamber ternyam@gmail.com

Philip Nyam

I

n the last one month, the Federal Government has dedicated unprecedented attention and commitment to rooting out the dreaded Islamic sect, Boko Haram from the country. The government speaks with more conviction and the military has also been motivated more than ever before. As a result, the military has been able to eliminate many of the insurgents and reclaim some of the territories they had annexed. At the last count, Baga, Mubi, Michika, Madagali. Konduga and several settlements, hitherto captured by the insurgents, are now under the control of the military. These were no-go-areas a year ago. In addition, the military has continuously and successfully repelled the onslaught from the insurgents in other towns and villages. Today, life is gradually returning to these areas and some displaced persons have started returning to their homes.

It is, therefore, not surprising that the House of Representatives reputed for its radical and critical disposition especially to national issues acknowledged these feats achieved by the soldiers. Last Tuesday, the House applauded and commended the bravery and gallantry of the Nigerian military in tackling Boko Haram. The lawmakers were unanimous in their commendations which were given following the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance moved by Hon. Muhammad Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno).

The House equally joined President Goodluck Jonathan in the commendation and hailed his renewed vigour and commitment

Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh

towards liberating the troubled spots from the shackles of Boko Haram. It must be noted that the President has in recent times visited some of these areas, which hitherto were exclusive enclaves of Boko Haram.

In unanimously adopting the motion, the House praised the military for its bravery and steadfastness, noting that in previous months, Boko Haram had nearly over-ran the three North-East states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe but the military has reversed the trend in the last few weeks. While leading debate on the debate, Monguno said prior to the new offensive, the Islamist group had subdued some communities, hoisted their flag in the local government headquarters and subjected the people to despicable norms. “Almost all the local governments taken by Boko Haram have now been liberated, so the armed forces

require some encouragement from us in the parliament.”

The most important aspect of this laudable decision by the lower chamber was the fact that during the debate on the motion, no lawmaker whipped in party, religious, ethnic or status sentiments. The issue was handled based on its merit. As a national issue and a matter of serious security concern, the legislators were dispassionate and very patriotic in their approach. There were no unnecessary disagreements or ‘points of order’ to frustrate the motion as it is almost always the case in the House. It is therefore not out of place to also commend the lawmakers for doing the needful at the right time. At least, the soldiers who are in the war front are now assured that Nigerians are solidly behind them and would offer their best,

The House should, therefore, take a cue from this matured and nationalistic action it has displayed and start viewing issues before it in national interest. For example, the 2015 Appropriation Bill is currently before the two chambers and it behooves on the lawmakers to accord the document a similar attention and consideration given to the motion on commending the military. The budget plays a very vital role in the socio-economic development of the nation. It will not be out of place if the legislators take a dispassionate look at the money bill and ensure that only the best is approved for Nigeria in 2015. So much concern has been raised on the proposed budget, hence as representatives of the people, the lawmakers should strive to address all the anomalies so as to come out with an implementable blueprint.

The issue of near no capital provision in the proposed budget comes in handy here. It is trite to state that there is dearth of infrastructure in the country and abandoned projects have become the order of the day. So, for the government to deliberately undermine the capital provision at the altar of recurrent expenditure does not augur well for the nation’s development. The deficit in the budget should also be thoroughly scrutinized just as a realistic oil benchmark be arrived at.

But for the lawmakers to achieve this, they must abandon the toga of unhealthy party loyalty and adopt a nationalistic posture to work for the unity, oneness and progress of Nigeria. Placing Nigeria ahead of every other interest can do a whole lot of good to our distraught people who seem to have lost confidence in our representative and do not speak well of the legislators. As the House inch towards the final moments of the 7th Assembly, it should work to leave a long lasting legacy. This House started on a very nationalistic perspective and must end that way.

Every Nigerian should pray for and support our military as it confronts these insurgents.

Raging controversies over card readers C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

whether the data in the card are the same with the original one or not.

It is a user friendly machine, which once the card is inserted, will pop up the picture of the owner, if genuine, and audibly say: “verified” (if the card belongs to the owner) or “not verified” if otherwise.

Although section 52 (2) of the Electoral Act 2010 prohibits “the use of electronic voting machine for the time being,” INEC in 2011, in its quest to eliminate fraud in the electoral process and conduct free, fair and transparent elections, embarked on the electronic voter registration process through the use of Direct Date Capture Machines. This machine captures the biometrics of the voter - the facial feature and ten finger prints.

The commission went a step further to issue Permanent Voter’s Cards to persons, whose data were captured during the 2011 electronic voters’ registration exercise and others who are now 18 years and above or who missed the 2011 exercise but were registered during the Continuous Voter’s Registration exercise.

It is these cards that will be subjected to further scrutiny during the accreditation process through the use of card readers.

If INEC succeeds in using card reader in the conduct of the elections, Nigeria will not be the first country in black Africa to adopt the technology. Ghana, Kenya and Sierra Leone have used card reader to conduct their elections.

Given further explanation on how the card reader works, Professor Jega said the device is like the Point of Sale machine, which is embedded with a SIM card of the major telecommunication networks in the country. It is connected to a central server which will receive

the data of the number of people accredited at a given polling booth.

The PVC issued to the voter is embedded with a chip which if inserted into the device will display the voter’s biometric data. According to Jega, stolen or snatched PVCs are useless because they cannot be used by anyone other than the original owner because of the difference in the fingerprints.

He said the use of card reader is to further sanitise the electoral process and prevent election rigging. And since accreditation of voters is between 8am to 1pm only data of verified voters transmitted to the central server will have their votes counted after the voting process.

This new method, according to him, will forestall attempt by politicians and INEC staff from stuffing the ballot boxes or writing election results as the figures must correspond with the number of accredited voters.

The present controversy surrounding the use of card reader might not have been necessary if INEC had heeded to call to test run the technology during the Ekiti and Osun States governorship elections last year.

Former Governor Fayemi of Ekiti State and Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State had insisted that the commission test-run the card reader during the polls, which Aregbesola said required only 3,500 machines. Now, INEC is proposing to deploy about 182, 000 card readers in the 12,000 polling units in the country. Each card reader is said to cost between N27,000 and N31,000.

The then Acting Chairman of INEC, Dr. Ishmail Igbani was reported to had said that the commission would use card readers for the two elections. But the Chief Press Secretary

to INEC Chairman, Mr. Kayode Idowu said only PVCs would be used during the polls.

“The reports misrepresented Igbani, as having said card readers would be deployed for the governorship elections,” Idowu explained.

The use of PVCs proved to be successful in Ekiti and Osun State unlike the 2013 Anambra governorship elections, where INEC’s use of Temporary Voter’s Cards was a disaster.

Many people could not vote because their names were missing in the voter’s register.

This is the same fear being expressed over the proposed use of card reader. And that necessitated the call for experimentation before it is used in major elections The first fear was the durability of the battery, especially in a society like ours, where there is problem of constant power supply. Jega told the senators that a card reader can work for 12 consecutive hours when fully charged and when not in use, it automatically reverts to safe mode to preserve its energy. “This means that it can last for many days without electricity”.

Jega further explained that if by the end of accreditation time of 1pm the device fails to work, voting at that polling booth will be shifted to the next day to enable INEC deploy another card reader.

He may have probably forgotten to explain the trauma, tension and panic this might have subjected the frustrated candidates and voters to.

Olowole Osaze-Uzzi, INEC director for Voter Education and Publicity in an interview with Sunday Telegraph, said the card reader can work for eight hours before the battery could go off. He, however, disclosed that each card reader came with an extra battery. He added that the commission has procured standby

generators to charge the batteries in case there is a failure from the public power supply.

Another issue is the time it would take to accredit a voter, using a card reader since the accreditation is between 8 am and 1 pm. This, the INEC chairman was able to prove to the senators during a mock accreditation of three senators on the senate floor after their PVCs have been configured to their respective polling units. With proficiency, it took one minute for each of the senators to be accredited.

If that is the case, there appears to be no problem. But Professor Jega has not addressed the issue of personnel trained to handle the machines. If he could accredit the senators with ease, how about the ad hoc staff? Can they also achieve the same feat within the timeframe, given the fact that there may be not less than 500 voters to accredit within five hours?

The Chairman, however, explained that accreditation of voter will be between 20 and 30 seconds.

He said the device, which was designed internally by INEC, had only about 0.03 per cent of the 180,000 of them faulty after being subjected to 13 tests both in Nigeria and in Texas, United States of America.

A Civil Society activist, Comrade Ismaila Ogendegbe, however, contended that if INEC could disappoint the people in the physical distribution of PVCs, “how can it be trusted with a more technical issue as using electronic machines to accredit voters?

Accreditation was the most crucial stage in the voting process, because only accredited candidates are eligible to vote.” How this will play out in the coming elections remains to be seen.

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Politics

APC ‘ll dislodge PDP from Abia, says Anyim Chief Nyerere Anyim is the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State. In this interview with IGBEAKU ORJI, he says the party will give the ruling Peoples Democratic Party a run for its money in the forthcoming elections How do you intend to go about your election?

We intend to put smiles on the faces of Abians, and mind you, we have declared 2015 as the year of jubilee for our people. So the election is a project by God’s grace which we shall use to liberate and emancipate the good people of Abia. We are not leaving any stone unturned, not minding the challenges, the hiccups here and there, but we are determined to make a change not only in Abia, but also nationally. That is what we are doing.

The APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, visited Abia recently but the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers and the state government gave him a cold shoulder. Can you clarify what happened?

It’s unfortunate that in Abia State, people now see democracy as a sole proprietorship kind of business, where it is no longer the government of the people, by the people and for the people. Democracy is now seen as government of some group of people, by that group and for the group of persons. This negates in all ramifications, the tenets of democracy.

How else can you describe a situation where a presidential candidate of a registered political party visited Abia and the some persons carried all sorts of propaganda against his visit?

One fact we must accept is that the people are desirous of change which was why they came out en masse to identify with APC and the agent of change is General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd).

Those who masterminded the propaganda know that the former Head of State has something to offer this nation, especially at this time. How can people start killing themselves, carrying all sorts of propaganda against such visit? These are enemies of progress. How could anyone describe one of the foremost traditional rulers east of the Niger, His Majesty, Eze Ikonne, who honoured General Buhari as enemy of the state? This is unimaginable.

What is the offence there? What offence did he commit? Is there anywhere in the Constitution where it is written that traditional rulers do not have the right to confer chieftaincy title or any award on any deserving Nigerian citizen.

The smooth and beautifully designed Faulks Road you are seeing today was constructed during General Buhari’s reign as Chairman, Petroleum Trust Fund. He also did some other notable roads in Abia. This is somebody that has worked for the nation. During his tenure as Head of State, things worked well in the country. With all these put together, we decided to honour him. And surprisingly, some persons still complained about the gesture.

To the best of my understanding, the essence of this chieftaincy title conferred on Buhari was in appreciation of his excellent performance; and I don’t see anything wrong with that. Buhari has done well for this nation, no matter how you look at it; he is a symbol of integrity, a symbol of honesty so he deserves the honour bestowed on him. Looking at it from a negative angle is wrong. How do we unify ourselves, other than what we have done bestowing a chieftaincy title on a Northerner from far away Katsina state in Igboland.

There are other Igbo people in other parts of the country who were honoured with chieftaincy titles. All these intra-cultural awards bring unity. We should learn to discuss things that would unite us as a nation and a people, than things that would bring division. It’s unfortunate that our people looked at it this way and decided to play politics with it. You don’t have to play politics with issues that affect the people.

Why do you want to be governor of Abia State?

I want to be the governor of the state to give Abians what has eluded them in the past 16 years of our democracy. You will agree with me that the only time we felt what looked like governance was during the era of late Sam Mbakwe as governor of the old Imo State when Abia State and Imo were one state.

The infrastructural development of the state and the welfare of the people were excellent.

But today those things are history. So, what I am coming there to do is to rebuild Abia, just like the burden Nehemiah had when he had to rebuild the fallen walls of Jerusalem. To rebuild the ruins in Jerusalem, that is what I am coming to do in the state. I have pragmatic programmes that would make Abia to be seen as truly God’s Own State.

How do you intend to go about it? Do you think you have the machinery and support base to achieve that?

The truth is that Nigerians are now becoming more conscious daily of events around them. The usual phenomenon in Abia where results were written and ballot papers hijacked is gone. There is usually expiry date for any evil act. This time around the antics, the game of writing results or rigging election or doing all sorts of vices which negate the electoral principles, to the best of my knowledge has expired. This time around the people want to vote and their votes must count. Intimidation here or there is not the parameter to select our leaders any longer.

Do you have confidence in INEC to conduct a credible election?

INEC has no option than to redeem its image. This is the best opportunity they have to tell the world that they are capable of redefining what Nigeria should be. They have done well to ensure that our elections will be free and fair. But the people need to follow-up; we need to really make sure they are sincere to what they are preaching and we believe they would be because the fate of this nation hangs on theie ability to conduct the 2015 elections. It’s an important task and I don’t think it would like to be remembered in history as the commission which overtly or covertly messed up this nation.

Do you think your party is capable of winning the governorship election in Abia State?

We have the capacity to win this election and that is why they are after us. If APC is not on ground and not existing in Abia State, why do our opponents go about destroying our billboards? Why do they go about disrupting our meetings? They know that the APC candidate would be the next occupant of the Government House. There are no two ways about it by God’s grace, because the APC are the ones that would look at the plight of the people, the plight of the common man, the plight of

the state and ameliorate the suffering our people, victory would be that of APC in the gubernatorial election in Abia.

Now, we can see that the Permanent Voter’s Card is another challenge. If the people do not have the card, they cannot vote. What are you doing to sensitise your supporters on this very important issue?

We have made representations to INEC in all the local government areas and we are still telling them, it’s either you want us to vote or we don’t vote, because if we come to a polling unit and there are no people with Permanent Voter’s Card to vote we would not sit down there and allow anybody that is not registered to come and carry those voters card they have been hoarding to manipulate the elections.

That is what will happen this time around.

The people will not allow it. All registered voters must be at the polling unit that day.

When the names of the voters on the PVC are on the register, I want to see how someone else will vote with another man’s card when the original owner is not at that spot. It will not happen, my brother. Let them be ready, because the man that brings insect infested firewood has invited the lizard for a show in his house.

What is your message to Abians?

Our people deserves to have good roads in Abia, enjoy free education which the APC would offer them. We also want to ensure that our people are empowered and the young men have sources of livelihood. We won’t allow our pregnant women to die in the hospital due to inability to pay hospital bills. What I am saying in essence here is that, there will be free health care facilities for our pregnant women and young children. Those are the things Abians should expect coupled with good governance and the development of our markets.

Those are some of the things we want to provide for Abians to make them truly see state as God’s Own State. In the area of youth development, all the present administration had been able to do was to produce miscreants and thugs.

Is that the certificate we want to give our youths and ablebodied young men. Instead of giving them good education and employment by opening the closed industries so that the people could have something to do, the government in power have been using the youths to tear other candidates’ posters, bill boards and destroy other people having their meetings?

They have started what they won’t be able to curtail. They have been throwing bombs at peoples’ offices. Did you see what happened to one of the political party’s o ff i c e s , that is how it

Anyim

started. They have started again. Why must politicians use periods like this to foment trouble they will not be able to contain. We are now suffering because of the dreaded Boko Haram.

We know what it took us to stop kidnapping in this state, why are they starting something they cannot control. Politics should be free and fair, and not desperate. We want the good for our people. All I am saying is that let the best person with the interest of Abians at heart, who would make sure that the democratic dividends are given to Abians win the governorship ticket. And not someone who would come with a mindset to recoup money borrowed for expensive campaigns.

For APC, we want to serve the people as we that government is about service to the people.

So, my message to Abians is that the slave that loves his chains remains in bondage. If for the past 16 years you are happy with what is happening with our government and leadership in this state then stay with them. But if you are not happy then the best option is to go and collect your Permanent Voter’s Card ready to vote for the right candidate in Abia.

It is your right and please make sure that on the election day, shun all kinds of inducements to do the wrong things because whatever you do now determines your future and that of your children in the next four years.

We cannot continue suffering. Look at Aba, the Japan of Africa, look at the condition; it was better in 1998/99 than what it is today.

Look at places like Arochukwu, Ohafia, Isuikwuato and Ihechiowa, these are places people have been asking if they are actually part of Abia state, because of the backwardness in these places despite the fact we are an oil producing state. Look at these places get the oil from, how abandoned and neglected they are.

What are they doing with our wealth? Of course, they are not using the funds for the welfare of the people. And above all, Abia State has the God’s-given ability to really create wealth; we are blessed both with human and natural resources. Despite all these, the government of the day is only interested in trying to muzzle the horse that threads the mills in the name of politics just because of selfish and personal aggrandisements.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

Politics

Elechi, Umahi and the raging fire Against the background of the recent fire which gutted the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, CHARLES ONYEKWERE looks at the crises in the state since the conduct of the Peoples Democratic Party primaries

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ince the conduct of the Peoples Democratic Party primaries in Ebonyi State last November, the political landscape in the state has changed remarkably.

A clear chasm now exits among public office holders in the state, sparkling a serious political battle.

While Governor Martins Elechi, the state executive and local government members have defected to the Labour Party, the Deputy Governor, Dave Umahi, who is the PDP’s candidate, and majority members of the State House of Assembly remain in the PDP. But another dimension was introduced to the crises last week when the Assembly, located Nkagele Road in Abakaliki was gutted by fire, a development which the Speaker, Chukwuma Nwachunku, said was designed to cripple the on-going investigations into the fraud allegations leveled against the executive in the state. The fire which started from the account department spread through the media section and destroyed a substantial part of the assembly. Governor Elechi has condemned the fire, calling it the handiwork of evil men.

Youths numbering over 3000 youths also protested the burning of the Assembly in Abakalikil, alleging that the inferno was a clear case of arson designed to destroy documentary evidence against the state government.

The youths inferred that the building was burnt because members of the House were in possession of evidence that would aid their investigations of alleged financial misconduct by some government officials who were billed to appear before the House the day the place was set ablaze.

Interestingly, the House served the governor impeachment notice Friday further putting his fate on the cliffhanger. Also, the House of Representatives has directed the Inspector General of Police Sulaiman Abba to investigate the fire incident at the Assembly. The resolution came following a motion on matters of urgent public importance raised by Hon. Linus Okorie from Ebonyi.

Since the crisis commenced several months ago, the state executive has thrown its weight behind the LP, as many government vehicles are now painted in the party’s colour, giving it full support. Despite his defection to LP, Elechi still promises to ensure victory for President Gookluck Jonathan , a promise former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Chief Frank Egbewu, has described that as a ruse.

Last week, Prof. Onyewuchi Chukwu, Governor Elechi’s anointed successor who lost in the primaries went to court to challenge the emergence of Umahi.

But the battle took another dimension last week when the Ebonyi State House of Assembly declared vacant the seats of six members of the House who decamped from the PDP to the Labour Party. The affected members include Eni Uduma Chima, representing Afikpo South -West constituency; Helen Nwobashi, representing Abakaliki South constituency; Marbel Aleke, representing Ohaukwu South constituency and Samuel

The burnt Finance Department of the Ebonyi House of Assembly building

Elechi

Nwali, representing Ikwo North constituency.

The action of the House of Assembly was based on Section 109, (1g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, which states that, “A member of the House of Assembly shall vacate his seat in the House if, being a person whose election to the House of Assembly was sponsored by a political party, he becomes a member of another political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected; provided that his membership of the latter political party is not as a result of a division in the political party of which he was previously a member or of a merger of two or more political parties or factions by one of which he was previously sponsored.

However, one of the members whose seat was declared vacant, Hon Eni Uduma Chima told journalists in Abakaliki that the action of the House in declaring their seats vacant would be counter-productive as it “would lead to the cessation of the House of Assembly in the present dispensation.”

He argued that Section 91 of the 1999 Con-

Umahi

stitution says that: “Every State House of Assembly must have 24 members for it to be a valid and lawful law-making body.” He then reasoned that the House may cease to exist following the declaration of the seats of the four members vacant.

Arguing in the same vein, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Ben Igwenyi, stated that the State House of Assembly was constitutionally required to have at least 24 members and that the declaration of the seats of four members vacant would jeopardise the Assembly’s recognition as being constitutionally qualified to operate.

But countering the views of the former House member and State Attorney General, the former Speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Augustine Nwankwegu says the recent declaration of the seats of four members of the House met the constitutional requirements.

He said the 1999 Constitution (as amended) made specific provisions in the event where a member of a State House of Assembly be-

comes a member of another political party, apart from the party he or she came into the House of Assembly.

Nwankwegu, a lawyer, cited Section 102 of the Constitution stating that the House of Assembly could conduct its duties not withstanding any vacancy in the membership.

Reacting to issue of quorum for the conduct of the declaration of the four seats vacant, the former Speaker made reference to Section 96 Sub-Section 1 which provides that quorum could be formed by one third of the 24-member House of Assembly, noting that “in the case of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, eight members being present constitutes a quorum in a particular sitting.”

The former Speaker explained that even as the formation of quorum depends on the activity in the House, one third of the members of the House is appropriate for the incident of declaration of the four seats (in the first instance) vacant. “If for any reason, four members left the House, remaining 20 members, CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

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Elechi, Umahi and the raging fire

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 9

that does not affect operations, powers or existence of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly with regards to carrying out its legislative duties” he stated. Nwankwegu argued that when some persons subject themselves to court of public opinion, they could be misled by ignorant argument.

He further noted that the Constitution gave attention to quorum because it anticipated absence of some members, stating that “those raising argument that there must be 24 members at all times are making a mistake and their position was not informed by law. If anybody feels aggrieved let him or her go to court.”

He said that Section 109 (a) of the Constitution spelt out that “when a member of a House of Assembly becomes a member of another political party, apart from the one through which he was elected into the House of Assembly, he is deemed to have vacated the seat,” more so as there is no crisis in the PDP in the state. He said they are receiving the recompense that was due for their error.

Observers have also noted that the facts readily available can speak for themselves as the documents regarding the defection of the House members are there in INEC office.

For that reason, a lawyer, Ezuche Nekemakolam has argued that: Section 91 of the 1999 Constitution only made a stipulation for the maximum and minimum numbers required to constitute a House of Assembly. After all,

a member may die or may be appointed to another post, or even resign for whatever reason.

He added that “Section 150 of the 1999 Constitution states that a House of Assembly shall have a life of four years – from the date of proclamation till the date before the next proclamation; Section 102 of the same 1999 Constitution states that no proceeding of the House of Assembly shall be invalid by reason of the fact that there is a vacancy in the House.

He submitted that by the provisions of the constitution and the case laws already decided in Nigeria, once a member of the House of Assembly crosses over to another party, he loses his seat. He cited the case of Michael Diaplung vs Joseph Dariye of Plateau State, where the number of members of the House of Assembly was 24 legislators, like in Ebonyi State. Fourteen members of the House had defected from the PDP to another party, consequent upon which their seats were declared vacant leaving the House with only ten members. Following a legal disputes, the Supreme Court on April, 27, 2007 held that the Plateau State House of Assembly will continue to sit and deliberate on matters that do not need 2/3 majority, but in the event that there is a decision requiring 2/3 majority, the House of Assembly will have to wait, until the filling of the vacancies.

In the assembly’s perspective which is based on the law, it is now evident that the

state House of Assembly did not violate the 1999 Constitution in declaring the seats of four of its members vacant. Rather, the House has enhanced its stature as one of the vibrant legislative houses in the country and its conduct and operations would ultimately enrich Nigeria’s political, constitutional and jurisprudential firmament, in the current democratic dispensation.

Besides the legality of otherwise of the suspension, supporters of Elechi believe that they are justified for moving to the LP. One of them, a sociologist, Dr. Charles Otu painted a catalytic political atmosphere in the state. He claimed that things had fallen apart in the PDP in the state, following the decamping of Elechi.

Otu even claimed that “President Goodluck Jonathan…. dampened the optimism and expectations of PDP supporters in the state when he could not canvass for votes or show open support and endorsement for the PDP candidate, Umahi and neither did he raise up his hand”. This, to Umahi’s men, amounted to a deliberate falsehood by someone who was not even at the Abakaliki Stadium on the day of the presidential rally.

The PDP chairman in the state, Chief Joseph Onwe said, “Dave Umahi was almost carried shoulder high by the party leaders and the masses. President Jonathan and the PDP National Chairman, assisted by other top echelons of the party, raised Umahi’s hands and handed over the flag to him as

the candidate of the party.

He said since the emergence of Umahi, several top stakeholders who left the party in 2011 have returned to the party to inaugurate the most potent political coalition ever witnessed in the state. Those who have joined forces with the PDP candidate include Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, Dr. Sam Egwu, Ambassador Franklin Ogbuewu, Senator Sunny Ogbuoji, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, Senator Emma Agboti, Dr. Igwe Aja-Nwachukwu, Dr. Senator Offia Nwali, Chief Njoku Afoke, Hon Innocent Ugo Chima, Senator Sylvanus Ngele and Chief Godwin Ogbaga. Others are Ambassador Alex Nwofe, Engr. Fidelis Nwankwo, Elias Elias Mbam, Chief Hyacinth Ikpo, Eze John Nwenyi, Chief Okeagu Ogada, Dr. Hyginus Nwokwu, Chief Obinna Ogba, Hon. Linus Okorie, Barrister Idu Igariwey, Chief Julius Ama Oji, Ambassador Oba Aja Nwachukwu, Mr. Augustine Nwankwoegu, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku, the incumbent Speaker, Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Chief Abia Onyike, Prince Ugoji Ama Oti, Chief Dave Nwachukwu, and Mr.. Francis Oji, Prof. Egwu U. Egwu and others too numerous to mention.

While the police investigate the fire, the latest development has made it more imperative for the national leadership of the PDP to step in. And if the impeachment proceedings succeed, Elechi may well be on the way out thereby clearing the coast for Umahi.

‘Nigerian politics is now a do-or-perish affair’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 4

caution himself. What we have in Nigeria are not strong institutions but strong individuals.

Chief Obasanjo did not leave strong institutions; he did not leave a strong INEC, he did not leave an impartial EFCC. Again, some people will say ‘take the message and leave the messenger alone.’ I am not one of those who subscribe to that school of thought, particularly when the message and messenger relate to one and the same person - a person who has occupied a sensitive and dominant position in Nigeria; a person of the calibre and stature of General Obasanjo. The messenger should also be our role model, he should be a father-figure and his message also should be the gospel truth. Perhaps, you have forgotten 2011? General Obasanjo dramatized at Aso Villa, telling Jonathan, ‘you must contest.’ I watched it. But then, you asked a question about General Obasanjo, if he had put the proper things in place, Nigeria will not be like this.

Then as a Yoruba man too, I felt very uncomfortable when I read in his latest book that Awolowo was one of those who introduced corruption into our political system- it is there in My Watch. Haba! And unfortunately too, people are not addressing the issues.

With all respect to former President Obasanjo, I have come to the conclusion that he portrays himself as the only person who is good, who is right, the only person who can do things properly, the only person who can govern. But I want to, with due respect to him, take an exception to this. I object to a situation where an elderly Yoruba man abuses another elderly Yoruba man, particularly a sage like Awolowo. When you look at page 267, Volume 1 of the book, My Watch, he said Chief Obafemi Awolowo “institutionalized bribery and corruption in the political system of this country, through payment of ten per cent on contracts and supplies to the socalled party organs and machinery.” Earlier at page 266, he stated that “Action Group and UPN that emanated from its ashes, have always made blackmail their stock in trade.”

He went further to say that “Chief Awolowo travelled all over the world and adopted all means and methods for stories, incidence

Olanipekun

and anything with which I could be personally embarrassed.” Then he went for the killer “It is an irony of history that those who institutionalized bribery and corruption in the political system in this country, through payment of ten per cent of contracts to party organs and machinery are always the first to cry wolf of corruption and point accusing fingers to cover up their misdeeds. It just happened that those they deceived became wiser after the event”. Chief Awolowo died in 1987, yet Obasanjo published this book in 2014. Why not allow the sage to rest in peace? Let us re mind ourselves that he said this much about the late acclaimed leader of the Yorubas, in his other controversial book ‘Not My Will’.

To him, General Buhari would not make a good economic manager. Is that fair? At page 191 of Volume 2 of the same book, he said Atiku was duplicitous, disloyal, dishonest and a liar. To him, Prof Wole Soyinka “is a self-serving critic and a misfit as a political analyst…he is surely a better wine connoisseur and a more successful ‘aparo’ hunter than a political critic.” This is what he said at page 119 of volume 3. At page 472 of Volume 2, Tinubu is described as primus inter pares

among corrupt governors in the nation. He portrayed General Alabi Isama as a hungry man in search of cheap popularity. This is contained at page 112 of Volume 3. I don’t know whether you have read Ayi Kwei Armah’s book, ‘The Beautiful Ones are Not Yet Born’. Maybe the author had General Obasanjo in mind when he coined the title of that book. The only beautiful one is, our dear General and two-time Head of State.

Nigerians have not forgotten so soon that but for the vigilance and resistance of the Action Congress members and people of Lagos, during Chief Obasanjo’s tenure, Raji Fashola would not have been declared as governor of Lagos State in 2007 as INEC website published a fake result different from the actual returns. Did the General not create a political Garrison Commander in Ibadan who was given the presidential fiat to unleash terror on his opponents? Was it not during Chief Obasanjo’s tenure that the abduction and kidnap of a sitting governor Chris Ngige of Anambra State were carried out? Has the General ever appreciated the late Beko Kuti who saved him from being executed by Abacha and who in return was court-martialed

and jailed?

On the General’s resignation from the PDP and the theatrics that attended same, I am not amused like several others. Maybe because I am not a politician. Our dear General has the inalienable right to withdraw his membership of the PDP, but in my respective view, the attending drama was unnecessary, particularly the public show made out of the tearing of his PDP membership card. It is like an employee who resigns his appointment and decides to tear the original copy of his appointment letter. Having publicly torn the membership card of the PDP, will he also renounce the privileges, benefits and appurtenances that had accrued to him as a PDP member, including his attainment of the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria between 1999 and 2007? Or will he just tell us that all these former benefits and accruals remain valid? Again, I am worried that our children watched this unnecessary dramatisation. These are children who want a George Washington to emerge from our leaders. These are young ones who want to see the likes of Winston Churchill from the league of our past and present leaders. These are budding folks who want a Mahatma Gandhi to emerge from our nation. This is a growing generation desirous of a Lee Kuan Yew to turn the tide. These are toddlers who want Nigeria to produce a Nelson Mandela. I am further worried that more often than not, contributions to political discourse nowadays are very much narrowed and pigeon-holed on convenience rather than on objectivity. We are not being fair to the country. I pray that the disagreement between former President Obasanjo and President Jonathan is based on altruistic and nationalistic reasons rather than on breach of personal agreements.

Though unsolicited, I advise the APC and General Buhari to be very cautious of the General’s Valentine gift. For my part, I would plead that we keep on respecting the General and also keep on deferring to him, even when some of us don’t agree with his methodology and the way and manner he carries on his narrations, sermons and homilies. I expected him to have resigned from partisan politics and become a father of all. That would have been more enobling.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

Tribute

Haruna Abubakar: Ten years on

Abubakar

T

Dele Agekameh

he Saints will march on, goes the famous saying that reflects on the life hereafter, after we might have transited from this sinful world to the great beyond. For Senator Haruna Abubakar, my late brother and friend of inestimable value, it is exactly ten years that he suddenly departed this world to be at the bosom of the Lord, his creator. While on earth, he distinguished himself as a good, caring family man. As a lawyer who was God-fearing, he approached life with all sense of modesty and simplicity. He played his part well throughout his sojourn in life.

I met Haruna Abubakar long before he became a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1999. It was a chance meeting at the home of a former president of the country and our chemistry clicked. With a friendship firmly anchored on the tripod stand of love, mutual trust and respect, the relationship blossomed till his last day on earth.

In 2003, he lost his uncle, Alhaji Maidunama, a former diplomat and influential businessman, who died in a German Hospital. He despatched Ibrahim Musa, his Aide-De-Camp, ADC, now a retired Superintendent of Police and a lecturer at the Nasarawa State University, to liaise with me. That was how I led the delegation which included top members of the Arewa Community in Lagos, to receive his uncle's body at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, deposited it at the Eko Hospital Mortuary overnight and arranged for the corpse to be flown to Abuja the following morning. Such was

He was a reputable lawyer mostly referred to as Lawyan Talakawa (Lawyer to the poor) because of his dedication and devotion to free legal services for the poor

the depth of our relationship.

As a journalist, I took him up several times on National issues and what always baffled me was his humility, patriotism and his disposition to the cause of humanity. He exuded scholarship and could go on and on to argue his position on any discourse even after it was clear that he had made his point. As a deeply religious man that he was, Haruna Abubakar fasted every Thursday of the week and he never missed his prayers or any Ramadan fast.

He was simply a unique person who had great respect for the institution of friendship. I could remember the day he was turbanned as Dan Iyan Lafia, at a colourful ceremony which was held in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State in Year 2000.

The ceremony was witnessed by a capacity crowd which included Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the then Vice-President, and almost all his colleagues in the Senate led by the late Chuba Okadigbo, the then President of the Senate, many members

of the Federal House of Representatives, the Diplomatic community, traditional rulers, religious leaders and many eminent people from all walks of life. They all congregated on Lafia that day to give honour to a man whose life had impacted positively on them.

It is quite unfortunate that he departed this sinful world few years after that great turbanning ceremony. But my consolation lies in the words of David Hume (1711– 1776), the Scottish historian, philosopher, economist, diplomat and essayist known today especially for his radical philosophical empiricism and scepticism: “I am dying as fast as my enemies could wish and as cheerfully as my friends could desire.”

The mammoth crowd of distinguished and eminent people from across the globe, who bade him farewell on the day his remains were committed to Mother Earth in Lafia, 10 years ago, simply attested to his larger than life image and the desire of those he left behind that he be accorded a heroic burial.

Today, I believe Haruna Abubakar is remembered by all those who either came across him or whose lives he touched in many ways. He was a reputable lawyer mostly referred to as Lawyan Talakawa (Lawyer to the poor) because of his dedication and devotion to free legal services for the poor. He was at different times, company secretary and legal adviser to the Benue Cement Company in Gboko, Benue State.

He was later appointed Managing Director of the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, PPMC. He was a Senator of the

Federal Republic of Nigeria from 1999 to 2003 and he became the Deputy Senate President between 1999 and 2000.

A renowned businessman, Haruna Abubakar established the popular Metro Plaza located at the Central Area, Abuja.

He also established Amana Suites, a cluster of three-bedroom bungalows, located in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja and many other businesses. Throughout his tenure as the Deputy Senate President, Haruna Abubakar was always admired by his colleagues whenever he presided over the Senate in the absence of the Senate president. He was generous to a fault and kind to all and sundry without recourse to ethnic, tribal or religious considerations. During his eventful lifetime, he embraced his workers as brothers and sisters. He did not discriminate among his friends who cut across vast linguistic and geographical locations all over the globe.

Like Alfred Damon Runyon (18801946), the famous American newspaperman and author, once said: “You can keep the things of bronze and stone and give me one man to remember me just once a year.” Alhaji Haruna Abubakar, Maryam, your wife, your children among whom are Muhammad Auwal, Binta, Sadiq, Musa and others, including the multitude of your genuine friends, remember you today, just like they do every passing day in the last 10 years, with love and gratitude to Allah for having given you to this country. Though you left 10 years ago, your wonderful legacy lives on!

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

42

Life/Foreign

S’Africa may exhume Synagogue victims’ bodies T

he South African Government could be forced to exhume the victims of the Nigerian church collapse after a family disputed the identity of the body given to them.

The family of 47-year-old Phumzile Mkhulisi, a mother of two, said their sister had a distinct gap between her front teeth but the body returned to them two weeks ago has none, timeslive.co.za reports.

Adding to the doubts of the Benoni, Ekurhuleni family is that the body has no broken bones. They say it also has no skin.

The government’s attempts to get them to cremate their sister without opening the body bag, purportedly because of fears of the Ebola virus, has fuelled their suspicions still further.

“Our government thinks we are submissive, that we take everything as gospel truth,” said Mkhulisi’s brother, Lwandle Mkhulisi. “When we challenge the status quo we are labelled troublemakers. We are not going to back down on this.

“Phumzile was born with that distinctive gap (in her teeth). It’s in the pictures.

It can be proved.”

He said the family was demanding an explanation.

“How do you explain this body we have? That has no gap. Do we accept that and bury it? No.” Mkhulisi said his sister could be in any of the 84 graves around the country in which followers of TB Joshua who died in the building collapse had been buried.

Of the 116 people who died in the collapse at the Synagogue Church of All Nations building in Lagos in September, 84 were from South Africa.

Mkhulisi said the government’s approach had raised the concern of his family. Two days before the bodies were due back in South Africa officials had visited the family and asked if Phumzile had had any distinctive marks on her body.

He said this pointed to the government being unsure of the identities of bodies.

The family was told not to open the body bag as the bodies had been infected with Ebola, but they had done so anyway.

“We received a completely skinned body without any broken bones. How can we be sure of her identity if the body has no skin?”

Lucille Blumberg of the Centre for Communicable Diseases referred The Times to a study conducted on monkeys by researchers from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the U.S. Its results, published in February, show that after testing swabs and tissue samples from dead Ebola-infected monkeys, scientists determined the virus could stay alive for up to seven days in a dead victim. Only non-infectious viral genetic material could remain for up to 70 days.

Mkhulisi said as soon as the government had learnt of the family’s suspicions, their private undertaker had received a call from a state official ordering that the body be cremated immediately, which they refused to allow.

They became even more suspicious when the death notice form that came with the death certificate did not bear his

Joshua

sister’s thumb prints.

Their biggest concern was that government officials said they didn’t know where the bodies had been kept in Nigeria, forcing the family to question whether DNA tests were, in fact, conducted and the bodies properly identified, he said.

“We were not the only family concerned.

There were four others,” Mkhulisi said.

In January the other families were invited to Nigeria, “but when they returned, we were the only ones left questioning the process.”

“I pleaded with them not to bury the remains until we were sure, but they went ahead. I don’t know what changed.”

Mkhulisi said the government had resisted the family’s desire to have DNA tests conducted on the body. It was only after he wrote to the Health Department insisting on DNA tests that they

Zuma

We were not the only family concerned.

There were four others,” Mkhulisi said. In January the other families were invited to Nigeria, “but when they returned, we were the only ones left questioning the process

were given the go-ahead.

In granting permission, in an e-mail to Mkhulisi, the deputy director at the Department of Health, Dr. Terence Carter, set out strict guidelines under which the tests can be conducted and stipulated that samples must be sent to one of three specified laboratories.

Mkhulisi said he was pleading with other families to come forward and speak about their concerns.

“If the DNA results come back negative [the body is not Phumzile], they will also be affected.”

If the results were negative, “we will have all the bodies dug up. If something is wrong then the doctor that conducted the tests must come clean. We have been told he acknowledged that there was no match for Phumzile.”

unbiased with personal style. Meaning anyone can rock them regardless of age, body shape and size.

You just have to know what works for you.

When it comes to shorts, there is a wide range of options to choose from. These include the Bermuda shorts, short shorts (also known as bum shorts), jean shorts, pleated shorts and skirt shorts. They

If you have full thighs, go for the slim-cut Bermuda shorts. Bermuda shorts are knee length shorts very similar to guy shorts but feminine. These give the illusion of slimmer thighs, especially when you wear one with the right prints or patterns. Vertical patterns or stripes work well to give the illusion of a slimmer figure.

If your shorts are loose and baggy wear a tighter top. If your shorts are shorter and tighter, loosen up on top. Anchor your look with accessories like a long-chain pendant, sandals with some sparkle, oversised sunglasses, or a block-colour bag to add some ‘pop’ and go ahead and sizzle at that party!

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Debonair looks in lapel pins

Vanessa Okwara

A

stylish man will always stand out in a suit, jacket or smart casual outfit. That is where the lapel pin comes in. For men who want to adopt a more gentlemanly look, dressing up a lapel is a fine finishing to a sports jacket, blazer or a suit. The lapel is also a good place to display an affiliation with a political party, an organisation or a good cause.

Lapel pins are sharp style accessories men can wear with their suits. These little-known accessories can serve as both professional suit accents and nifty fashion statements. A lapel pin provides a great opportunity to stand out and achieve a look that is personal, fresh and completely original.

There are various types

of lapel pins and they help demonstrate how suave you can be. You can find lapel pins in a variety of materials including wood, fabric, metal, decorative and fresh flowers. They can take any shape, including stethoscopes, anchors and also military lapel pins. So, it is easy for men to personalise an outfit by choosing an item that suits their job or lifestyle.

The flower lapel pins are also known as the boutonnière. The flower lapel pin which happens to be a fashion item used in modern times, comes in different colours, shapes, and sizes.

For most men, the only time they will ever wear a flower on the suit lapel is at formal events like weddings, anniversaries, proms, or a night at the theater and awards. The bou-

tonnière is worn on the left lapel of a men’s suit, sport jacket, or blazer jacket.

To maintain a stylish look, coordinate the lapel pin or flower with clothing and avoid wearing too many other accessories. Adding a pocket square or tie pin creates an attractive look, but the lapel accessory can also stand alone. Lapel accessories should match the size of the wearer with small men choosing appropriately-sized items and men with larger builds wearing more substantial displays.

Men generally wear these accessories on the left lapel, above the heart in the same position as official pins and military medals.

Adding a lapel pin to your suit shows how something so small can totally transform a look or help to emphasise the image you wish to portray.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015

Body&Soul

I

What really makes a woman an ideal wife?

t’s really interesting what most men consider qualities they look out for in a woman. I remember reading some of those qualities on relationship request columns in most newspapers across the country. In fact, let me read out a typical one to you: “My name is Wale, tall and dark in complexion. I am 30 years old and based in Lagos. I need a beautiful, tall, busty, lovely, fair lady that is self-employed or works in a bank, for marriage”.

If that is all the qualities a lady requires to be moved from a girlfriend position to becoming a wife, then it’s no wonder the divorce rate has sky-rocketed to high heavens! For some guys, all you need as ticket to becoming their wife is a pretty face, big bum, boobs or a fat bank account.

Anything short of the above disqualifies you from the ‘wifey race’.

Don’t get me wrong here. I’m not saying a man should go for a woman he is not attracted to just to prove a point. That you find the woman you are dating attractive and your senses reel just by the mere thought that you are going to see her lovely face again tonight is still not enough to make her an ideal wife for you.

In fact, I know many women whose culinary and bedroom skills are top notch but their character is so bad that even Patience Ozokwor looks like a saint in some of the wicked woman roles she plays in Nollywood movies when compared to some of the wicked acts they can indulge in.

Such women come into a family as wife, looks at the peaceful co-existence that exists in her new home and rips it in shreds.

They create enmity between siblings and cause hatred to breed in an environment where love and peace had previously ex-

CONNECT NG vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com isted.

However, there are qualities a wife possesses that go beyond sex that men do not bother to look out for and women are not even encouraged to develop.

A beautiful woman without laudable character is like a trash can used at the presidential lodge. A trash can might have a beautiful appearance or occupy a coveted position at the home of a king but it will still be used to dispose garbage. Take away beauty from such a woman and all you see inside is a mixture of putrid and smelly waste.

The same goes for a woman who lacks good character traits such as compassion -an important quality of a wife often overlooked. Most ladies are so cold and calculated that they don’t see beyond their selfish gains. When they get married, they still carry that selfish trait to their matrimonial home. They don’t care about any other person except members of their immediate family. Hell is let loose if her husband as much as extends a helping hand to members of his family or a friend that needs financial assistance. That is why they can’t get along with in-laws. Such women also maltreat their house helps and look down on other people she perceives as beneath

her class or social status. But a man who desires a good woman should look out for this trait or lack of it and it is often exhibited unconsciously in the course of the relationship.

Another character trait that is also often overlooked is integrity. This goes beyond being financially accountable. It’s about building trust that is unshakable. A wom-

A beautiful woman without laudable character is like a trash can used at the presidential lodge. A trash can might have a beautiful appearance or occupy a coveted position at the home of a king but it will still be used to dispose garbage

an of integrity is someone who is firm in her beliefs and principles and is not easily swayed by every wave that passes. Her word is her bond. She’s the type whose husband firmly trusts her judgment and knows that her life’s principles are her guiding light.

Another character trait that is often overlooked is consistency. An inconsistent wife is the type that will easily break a relationship with her boyfriend for failure to buy her the Brazilian weave-on she asked for.

She’s the type that flairs up with little or no provocation just to get your attention.

She’s the type that will not be there for you when there is a sudden loss of job and will also not be encouraging if your business is experiencing seasonal downsides.

Human beings are creatures of habit and when we have consistency in our lives, this creates security. If a man knows that his needs will be consistently met and of course vice versa, then he feels more comfortable and willing to thrust his life in the hands of this person.

There are other important traits to look out for when looking for your missing rib but for space, I’ve brought out just these few to sensitise your mind to be more conscious of the inner make up of a woman and not just her outward appearance.

So guys, the next time you go ‘shopping’ for a wife, please look beyond what is written on the ‘label’ and start checking the nutritive value of the ‘product’ on display.

I wish you all the luck; you need it! Next week, we shall be looking at the qualities that make a man ‘husband material’. So ladies, keep a date with us!

•Send your views to the email above!

Content, context and consumption of television programmes E rudite dancer and scholar, Peter Badejo, once told me after an inspection of the National Theatre that ‘the energy generated by the passion and the commitment of the artistes, if converted into electricity, can power an entire country.’ I responded that the artistes would appreciate economic empowerment first before the electric one and he had just one reply; ‘that will come in time.’

Today, I wish I was here talking about the fulfillment of a prophecy of Nigerian artistes reaping the fruit of their creative labour, talking about how the arts and culture is now self-sustaining and can gainfully employ the young and restless society, or even provide an outlet for their pent up frustration with the system. No, I am not talking about this yet because I only see a relative few enjoying the fortune that comes with the fame and a larger number still wallowing in penury.

I am also surprised that despite the abundance of talent and creativity in the sector, we struggle to come up with Nigerian themed event for local consumption. Look at the carnivals that we discussed a few weeks back and how they are anything but cultural in the real sense and context of the word. If the carnival fails to convince you, then look at the programmes on the television and you will be amazed at the number of foreign films you are watching, even if you think they have ‘Nigerian content.’

While Nigerian artistes are sweating it out and barely getting recognition for their work, Messrs Simon Fuller and Simon Cowell are raking in the dollars

because a concept they created is being given a Nigerian make over. You don’t understand what I am saying, I will lay it down clearer: To keep up with the local content requirement put in place by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), what television and self styled entertainment gurus in Nigeria are doing is simply taking a successful programme model from the Euro American axis and then prefixing it with Nigeria to be broadcast on Nigerian television station. However, what you don’t see is that as creators of the franchise, Si-

If we are all interested in saving the whatever pride that is left in our television programming, now is the time to demand that NBC look into any program that is a foreign franchise

mon Fuller (Nigerian Idol) and Simon Cowell (X factor) have to be paid royalty for copyright usage. Seriously, I am not going to be swayed by the argument that the judges over time have been sourced locally, the music for some of the talent shows have been from the local musicians and so getting them some royalty or the fact that the shows are popular and attracting sponsors from the Nigerian corporate society. I ask if the amount being expended is equal to what has been paid to bring these shows to Nigeria.

I have worked with some very talented people in my time on the culture beat of Nigeria and to say we have suffered for our craft would be an overstated understatement. Yet, the time now come for these suffering artistes to benefit from the fruit of their labour and we rather enrich those who are rich already?

Something is not right.

Let me ask, how much is paid to those who appear for audition and don’t make it past the first round? Some of them, yes agreed are deluded beyond reason but, have managed to provide the most entertaining moments in any of the programmes we see. No one cares. The foot-

age are used for free, the poor souls are humiliated and we are all entertained.

Let us not be deceived, we are no different from that humiliated soul. All of us are being humiliated every time we sit in front of the television to watch Nigerian Idol, Nigerian X Factor, Nigeria’s Got Talent and very soon Nigeria’s Strictly come dancing. We are all being fed recycled product of a wasted program.

If we are all interested in saving the whatever pride that is left in our television programming, now is the time to demand that NBC look into any program that is a foreign franchise. I am sure when the local content rule was put in the content legislation of television, it was to ensure that we are not deluged by foreign products that erode the values that we hold dear, values that hold us together as a society and values that uniquely define us a people.

In business, the import duties are put in place to protect local products and production, I also believe now will be a good time to either tighten the regulations of content on television, or just ask for a fee to be paid by any producer or television station wanting to air this show and then the money used to promote and help some local artistic productions.

Call me nostalgic, but there was a time when we sat to watch ‘Cock Crow at Dawn’, ‘Village Headmaster ’, ‘Mirror in the Sun’ among other quality productions that had local and real talents in them. That was the golden era of television; I challenge anyone to describe the current trend in similar language.

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul with

Wole Adepoju 07037763410

Austin Okocha’s undying passion

D

elta Stateborn football artist, Austin Jay Jay Okocha, remains one of the greatest and most popular players Nigeria has ever produced. His exploits as a footballer took him out of the shores of Nigeria to the international arena where his talent was acknowledged by all. Some years after he retired from the round leather game, his popularity has not diminished; instead, it has been one commercial endorsement after the other.

The talented ex-international may have after all proven that his passion for football in any form is undying and his consistency has eventually paid off.

At a time, Jay Jay, as he’s fondly called, tried his hands at running a fun spot and he opened Bar No 10 on Victoria Island, Lagos. It was not a success story and it was rested. He returned to his passion and gradually, things began to look up for him. He was made a member of the Nigerian Football Federation’s technical committee after which he became acting vice chairman of Delta State Football Association. To crown it all and to reward his constituency, Jay Jay was days ago elected as the chairman of Delta State Football Association.

Gani Adams, Faseun reunite

P

erhaps, Ondo State-born dude leader of Oodua Peoples Congress, Otunba Gani Adams, never envisaged he was going to be famous as he is today. This is because, by the nature of his vocation, carpentry, not many would have believed it if a soothsayer had predicted his fame. But today, he’s not only famous, he’s celebrated in some quarters and his status has amde him dine with the high and mighty. This feat Gani attained through his involvement in OPC. On the other hand, another man whose name cannot but be mentioned as far as OPC is concerned is Frederick Faseun, the founder of OPC.

woleadepoju@yahoo.com

Nike Oshinowo’s show

S

lim built and pretty-faced Nike Oshinowo was crowned a beauty queen about three decades ago, but she has remained relevant. She has never left the stage and has not ceased to re-invent herself with one project or the other. Also, her life has remained an attraction to many who follow her and update themselves on happenings in her life.

The ageless beauty who leaves many younger women green with envy could be conveniently referred to as the only ex-beauty queen who remains in the news for different reasons, as, at different times, she has come up with products, programmes and initiatives. Her private life has been the toast of newspapers and magazines, especially the story of her romance with Tunde Soleye. While their union lasted, they were an item. When the union hit the rocks, it did not lack immense coverage as many scrambled to get the details. Nike also courted much attention when she recently surfaced with a set of twins she now nurses as their mother.

Meanwhile, as regards the business ventures Nike has identified with, not much is in the public domain about how they have fared. But many would readily say she’s got the Midas touch. However, the same thing cannot be said of the new terrain she has just ventured into.

Prior to the debut of her talk show, Late Night With Nike Oshinowo, many had expected it was going to be an instant hit; obviously because of the noise, partnership, loads of adverts and packaging given to the show. Months after Nike began the show, the ex-beauty queen seems to still be struggling to make an impact. It has not garnered the high level of acceptance expected of a show handled by someone of her high status. acceptance the show attracted was far more discouraging than what was expected, even as it was envisaged the name Nike would make the show an instant success.

Though, through his medical practice and involvement in public issues Faseun had been in the spotlight but his involvement with OPC has further raised his popularity.

On the heel of the supremacy battle over who founded OPC, Adams and Faseun were at daggers-drawn for many years. The battle was so fierce that their followers at various times engaged in bloody clashes that constituted public disturbance so much that

Adams and Faseun were picked up by security agents. After a while, a truce was brokered between the two of them during which Faseun was declared the founder and national president of the organisation and Gani named the national coordinator. No doubt, the truce brokered has made their followers to embrace peace. However, their rivalry has not abated as they don’t pass over any opportunity to exchange words in the media. Their most recent spat was over whose group should provide security for pipelines in the South-West.

They seem to have reunited and are now working for the common purpose of getting President Goodluck Jonathan re-elected.

Gloria Ibru in exciting mood

G

oing by her anteced ents, Gloria Ibru, daughter of billionaire businessman, Olorogun Mi-

chael Ibru, belongs to the league of big ladies who are enjoying life to a hilt. Gloria, who is a musician, goes about playing her music and making people happy. The amiable mother of one is a happy person by nature. She goes the extra mile to make people happy. By information at our disposal, it will sure not be out place to say the Delta State-born lady is in an exuberant mood as she gets set to clock 50 on March 10. The atmosphere in the household of Ibru suggests that something is about to happen as everyone is said to be looking forward to the day. However, plans for the golden jubilee celebration are still being kept under wraps. Gloria, who has played music professionally for over 25 years as a performing artiste, has eventually concluded plans to become a recording artiste.

She recently released a single while plans for an album are at an advanced stage. Gloria bore a child for popular gospel singer, Sammie Okposo, about 20 years ago.

Lineo welcomes baby girl

P

rince Adekoya Adegboyega a.k.a Lineo is an Ijebu, Ogun State-born prince who got into the spotlight through his exploits in the musical world as a hip hop artiste. He is currently in a happy mood as his girlfriend was delivered of a baby girl in faraway United States.

The gangling handsome young man has since named the pretty child Kendra, and has been basking in the eupho-

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Body&Soul

Thinking

ria of his babe’s safe delivery.

Ta l e n t e d Lineo got into the music industry at an early age and rose up the ladder to establish his feet. Lineo featured late Dagrin in an effort titled, Show me the money. It was a huge success with massive airplay and club acceptance. Meanwhile, Lineo is billed to return with a bang from the U.S, where he’s been doing exploits with foreign acts.

Okoya Thomas embarks on final journey

I

t’s no longer news that the A s o j u Oba of Lagos, C h i e f Omolade O k o y a Thomas, has passed on to the great beyond. Since his demise about two weeks ago, people from all walks of life have continued to extol the virtues of the billionaire who died at the ripe age of 79.

Meanwhile, the programme which will herald his final journey to eternity has been rolled out by the family. The sport-loving deceased will begin his final journey on March 4 with a service of songs while a Christian wake will follow on the second day. The funeral arrangements will climax on March 6 with a funeral service at Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos. Thereafter, he will be buried and guests will be treated to a great time.

On Deji Doherty’s fate

B

u l k y a n d t i n y voiced Lagos-born politic i a n , D e j i Doherty, u p o n conquering the business world where he made a fortune, many years ago ventured into partisan politics. Almost immediately, he appeared like the biggest thing that was set to happen in Lagos political circles. True to his projection and the anticipation of many, he moved up the ladder. Deji’s political ambition became pronounced when he signified interest to rule Lagos State, but he lost the ticket to Musiliu Obanikoro of the Peoples Democratic Party. He tried his hands at politics again but the outing was not successful. He has, however, remained relevant in the party and even held a

sensitive position for a period of time.

Ahead of the 2015 elections, Deji had signified his interest in taking over from Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola. Many had thought of his loyalty and commitment to the party and conceded the PDP governorship ticket to him on paper; but it was not meant to be as the business man turned politician was shoved aside by the real gladiators and Jimi Agbaje emerged winner of the primaries. Relationships were battered and friends turned enemies as a result of the primaries, but Obanikoro who had quit his ministerial position to vie for the governorship ticket was the most vocal among those who protested. Deji, it was learnt, also protested but the situation was put under control at a meeting chaired by Vice-President Namadi Sambo. At the parley, the aggrieved contenders were placated and some were offered other posts in government and the party. Information has it that Deji was urged to endure a little more.

Susan Hart relishes marital bliss

O

ne time Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Susan Hart, cannot but be thankful to her stars for the kind of life she has lived and how lucky she has been. Of course, she contested for the coveted MBGN crown and was fortunate to have beaten every other contestant. Aside the benefits of being a beauty queen at that level, Susan also enjoyed many other perks that came with the crown. Surely, her life has not remained the same as she has not failed to leverage on the fame and exposure that came with the crown.

Years after she relinquished the crown, Susan has moved on to other things and is living her life to the fullest. One of her dreams that came true was the opening of a fashion outfit, Diamond Couture.

Luck also smiled on her when it was time for marriage. Although she had experienced disappointment, it has turned out to be a blessing as the man in whose arms she has found solace, Olorogun Sunny Kuku, has turned out to be a wonderful husband.

Aloud

) 0807 270 9777

paulhelenproductions@yahoo.com

with Helen Paul

Who are you to judge?

‘T

ouch not my anointed, and do my prophet no harm…’ that verse of the Holy Bible, to my understanding, doesn’t mean that pastors cannot be criticisewhen they have done something visibly wrong. But Nigerians are so religious to the extent that pastors are regarded as invincible, and shouldn’t be criticised when they are wrong. What that verse simply means is that you shouldn’t plan evil against your fellow human.

You shouldn’t crucify Mr A for an offence, and look the other way when a ‘Pastor’ commits the same offence.

I’m amazed at how Nigerians can be very religious, most times hypocritically. I get irritated when some people are enmeshed in this holier than thou syndrome. But just like my Uncle, Tuface Idibia rightly said, ‘Nobody holy pass.’ Interestingly, God is not interested in the number of days you go to church or mosque, or whether you sleep on mountains day and night. His priority is your heart; how dirty or pure is it? Are you among those frequent church goers, or you are even a church worker, yet your behaviour to fellow humans are not Christ-like It reminds me of the story of those who asked Jesus Christ, “When did we see you hungry and we refused togiveyoufood…” and He replied them, saying that in as much as they have failed to feed their fellow human who is in need, they have equally done the same thing to Him. The lesson from that story is that God will not come down from heaven so that we can show Him how strong we love Him. But since our fellow humans are created in His ‘image’, they deserve to be shown undiluted lov Nigerian polity is currently heated, no thanks to the general elections that are underway. Campaigns are going on here and there, and the politicians are employing every available vessel to reach out to the masses. And as political animals, everybody is involved in politics one way or the other. Entertainers and pastors are no exception.

The society is quick to condemn individuals or entertainers, but when pastors do the same, nobody talks. We have seen the roles being played by some pastors in the ongoing political campaigns so far, but nobody is criticising them. But entertainers are being crucified for campaigning for politicians. A pas-

tor can romance two presidential candidates from different parties and nothing is wrong with it, but if an entertainer dares that, it becomes a big issue. It is only in Nigeria that we are quick to condemn people, except pastors.

I’m not against pastors. As a matter of fact, many of them are my fathers and mothers, and I’m sure they are reading this, but I need to reiterate that myfellow Nigerians need to work more on their faith in God more because pastors have failed us in many endeavours. But I know one man who never fails –Jesus. That is why we need to renew our faith and strength in Him. I have realised that faith in God is what we need –that is the only thing that can give us consolation.

George MacDonald said, “A perfect faith would lift us up absolutely above fear. It is in the cracks, crannies and guilty faults of our belief, the gaps that are not faith, that the show of apprehension settles and ice of unkindness forms.”

Unanswered questions can be unsettling. I have faith. Some might even say it is strong. I know who God is, and I believe His word is true. I try my best to trust Him, even when life does not make sense. However, there are these crevices deep in the recesses of my soul, where fear resides. I can envision the kind of faith I want to have. I can foreshadow the kind of woman I want to be . . . but I always seem to fall short. I never meet the standard I have engrained in my mind. I have a good relationship with God now, but it has not always been that way. Life beat me up pretty bad before I was broken enough to recognize my need for Him.

I’m not against pastors.

As a matter of fact, many of them are my fathers and mothers, and I’m sure they are reading this, but I need to reiterate that myfellow Nigerians need to work more on their faith in God more because pastors have failed us in many endeavours

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

I’m not a university graduate -Chinonso Young Lekki Wives star, Chinonso Young aka Cleo, who has a very sexy figure to go with the role, spoke with BIWOM IKLAKI on her life, passion, roles and what the future holds Give us a glimpse of your childhood I am from a very traditional family. My dad was a military man so I grew up in the barracks with many of my family and friends around me. That was when I learnt that family is the most important. Both my parents are from Abia State where my dad is a traditional ruler in Otampa village, an autonomous community. I went to primary school at Airforce Primary School, Victoria Island, Lagos. My secondary education was in Girls Secondary Grammar School, Ikoyi. Everything else that I have learned and experienced have been mostly informal. I never went to a university. I have been a very artsy and creative person. So I own a shop that deals in beads and accessories that I make.

Would you like to go to a university in the future?

Yes, but I would much rather do certified examinations for professional qualifications.

How did you delve into acting?

Like I said before, I own an artsy and crafts shop. So in between that, I did a stage production by Solomon Macauley in 2008. It was my first acting job which I enjoyed thoroughly. Most prominent of the productions I have done is Lekki Wives because it allowed me to showcase my talent on a larger scale. My other movies, which will be coming out this year, are ‘For the wrong reasons’ and ‘Ogere’.

Are you anything like your Lekki Wives character, Cleo?

Not much, but I had to dig deep to be able to bring the character to life.

Do you get any hate mail or attitudes from fans as a result of that role?

Not at all, at least not so far. But I have had people call me ‘Cleo’ when they recognise me.

What has been your most challenging role so far?

My most challenging role so far would be my first movie appearance. It was directed by Elvis Chuks and is called ‘For The Wrong Reasons’. I played a character that suffered domestic violence by her husband (played by Daniel K Daniel). He is a great guy and we fed off each other’s energy. It was challenging for me because I had to experience pain and still be in character. I also had to act a love scene with him on the very first day on set. It was my first movie shoot and you can imagine how that would have been for me. To create a believable romance scene with a total stranger at the drop of a hat.

But being the great guy that he is, and my commitment to the role, it was almost a piece of cake.

Let us talk money now. How much was your first pay from acting?

That would be from the stage production. I think it was about N98, 000. It was a great production put together by people who know their beans in the industry so it was well funded.

What did you do with the first big bucks you made?

Hmmm….the craziest and most selfish thing I ever did with my paycheck was to buy 14 pairs of shoes at a go. It was

just about me, and I can assure you it felt good to do so. It was money well spent.

Who is your role model?

I don’t really have role models, but I have a few people from whose experiences I pick a few lessons. Oprah Winfrey, for all her work and contribution to humanity. Genevieve Nnaji for being strong and pushing for the best, and Omotola Ekehinde for being so strong, sexy and talented. She is also able to do all that she does and stay married, managing both carrier and family lives. Above all else, they are strong, independent and sexy women.

What is your best asset?

I love my entire body because it is all part of the Chinonso Young brand. Interestingly, my tummy always manages to stay flat so I guess I am lucky.

What was your New Year resolution?

I am not even sure this qualifies as a New Year resolution, but around November/December last year, I decided to drop a few kilograms by the New Year. So, I went on a weight loss journey. At the start, I weighed 85kg, now I weigh 75kg. I am so happy with how far I have come and how I feel and look now.

Who is your best designer?

Well…(hold on let me check) I am going through my wardrobe now. I am not sure I have a favourite designer, but I do have quite a few Topshops and H&M clothing. I am not particular about designers, what fits is more important.

Plus, I pay more attention to my accessories.

What would you say is your style?

It is all about the strong, sexy and independent woman, with great carriage, poise and confidence. I also tend to lean to the Afrocentric look.

It shows in my hair and jewellery.

What is the Chinonso brand about, better yet, what is your passion?

The Chinonso brand is about giving back to the society. If I have my way in the future, I will reach out to the child on the streets. Those ones who do not have parents or guardians, as well as those who have but are not able to care for them. I am coming from a past where I had to

struggle a lot. It may not have been very bad, but it was enough for me to relate to that poor child on the street. I would love to find a way to meet their basic needs and possibly give them an education.

All these will be done of course if God blesses me for this j o u r n e y.

And also, I am passionate about my craft.

What did you do on Valentine’s Day? I went to out with my sister who is with child. We had so much fun together and then we went to dinner at a Chinese restaurant. It was a great day well spent.

No man? What about the man in your life? Where did you go?

(Gives a very girly and infectious giggle) err… I would rather not talk about my personal life, thank you.

What is your pet peeve?

I cannot stand rats at all. They irritate me seriously. And I also cannot stand people who are fake.

What do you have to say to your fans?

Awwww, I love them deeply and they are the reason I am where I am today.

They are very much appreciated. I love them all.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015

Wine & Dine

49

Body&Soul

Silver Oak...for all occasions Ibukunoluwa Kayode

W

hen it comes to making a choice of cabernet to fill in the mood for any occasion, Silver Oak is one of the finest brands of wine to opt for. This wine originated from California in the 70s.

Silver Oak has over the years prepared different flavours of wine from red to white. It is perfect for dinners, cocktails and other occasions.

Recently, two new cabernets namely Alexander Valley and Nepa Valley were launched into the wine market.

Alexander Valley is a rich, dark, fullbodied wine with great tannic structure for mouth-feel. The wine is embedded in garnet colour, nose ripe boysenberries, cherry liqueur, dark chocolate, sandalwood and a tint of roasting meat.

On the palate, this wine is incredibly rich with a very long savory finish and a slight grip of fine grained tannins. This is a wine with 100per cent composition of cabernet sauvignon.

Nepa Valley combines elegance and depth in balance. This vintage wine has a dark ruby colour with a garnet edge and a complex nose of sandwood, cedar, cassis, blackberry, dark chocolate and roasted coffee.

The wine on the palate holds a long finish of concentrated fruits and spice with a slight tannic grip.

Nepa holds 90 per cent of cabernet sauvignon and six per cent verdot. This wine can perfectly pair with both intercontinental and local cuisines.

Egusi and bitter leaf soup Biwom Iklaki

B

itter leaf is believed to do many wonderful things in and to the body, so it is always a delightful and great addition to any meal. It could also be juiced and drank, but that is not for the faint hearted.

It is known to contain vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, great for weight loss and nourishing the skin. I would bet you didn’t even know that besides taking it to increase breast milk production, local women in Guinea-Bissau take it in the belief that it helps contract the uterus after childbirth.

Invariably, this juice should be avoided during pregnancy and when trying to conceive. Here is how I cook it in my egusi soup.

INGREDIENTS •1 cow leg (cut into pieces and cooked till tender) •3 cups ground egusi •1 bulb onion (chopped) •½ cup ground crayfish •½ cup palm oil •5 medium tomatoes (chopped) •¼ cup pounded pepper (or as

desired) •3 stock cubes •1tbs salt •Stockfish (cooked along with cow leg) •Smoked fish •2 cups shredded bitter leaf (washed to remove some bitterness) •1 cup chopped hot leaf PREPARATION In a separate bowl, mix egusi and water into paste. Bring about 1 cup water to boil in a small pot and scoop the egusi in. Do not stir, leave to parboil for 5 mins. In another pot, pour the palm oil and heat, then add the onions and tomatoes. Fry till it becomes a paste. Add the salt, stock cubes and pepper. Stir and add the cow leg and stock fish with its stock. Add the parboiled egusi, stir, cover and leave to steam for about 10 minutes more. Stir and add some water to keep it from burning. Taste and add either more salt or stock cubes to suit your tastes. Add the crayfish, washed bitter leaf and hot leaf. Stir and cover for 2 mins and your soup is done.

Serve with semo or wheat meal.

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Body&Soul

The proud red rose (1)

O

ne beautiful spring day a red rose blossomed in a forest. Many kinds of trees and plants grew there. As the rose looked around, a pine tree nearby said, “What a beautiful flower.

I wish I was that lovely.” Another tree said, “Dear pine, do not be sad, we can not have everything.” The rose turned its head and remarked, “It seems that I am the most beautiful plant in this forest.” A sunflower raised its yellow head and asked, “Why do you say that? In this forest there are many beautiful plants. You are just one of them.” The red rose replied, “I see everyone looking at me

Children Art Club meets

T and admiring me.” Then the rose looked at a cactus and said, “Look at that ugly plant full of thorns!” The pine tree said, “Red rose, what kind of talk is this? Who can say what beauty is? You have thorns too.” The proud red rose looked angrily at the pine and said, “I thought you had good taste! You do not know what beauty is at all. You can not compare my thorns to that of the cactus.”

“What a proud flower”, thought the trees.

What happened to the proud red rose?

Keep a date next Sunday for the conclusion… (kidsworldfun.com)

Cross word puzzle

he February edition of the Children Art club held on February 21, 2015. The event was at the Cultural and Musical Heritage Centre, Olumo rock, Abeokuta. It is a place where the children go to express their personal talent and realise their creative abilities. The children also get a chance to interact with their peers and share ideas during a fun, handson workshop with diverse artists and art educators.

In this edition, the children

Where do tadpoles change?

Ans: In a croakroom!

What town in England makes terrible sandwiches?

Ans: Oldham!

What kind of hair do oceans have?

Ans: Wavy!

What do you mean by telling everyone

Gags that I’m an idiot?

Ans: I’m sorry, I didn’t know it was supposed to be a secret!

Why are goldfish red?

Ans: The water turns them rusty!

What is the best hand to write with?

Ans: Neither - it’s best to write with a pen!

MOYIN & FRIENDS

LITTLE LINDER

were made to create wearable art on white t-shirts and they were excited at the end when they saw what they had created as well as the idea of wearing their own art.

At the end of the day, all the children’s work is documented in virtual form for exhibitions and media exposure. The sessions are free with Alhaji Adeleye, Mr. Kehinde H., and Prince Olusegun Adeniyi as facilitators.

The visiting artist this edition was Lanre Tejuoso.

By Ayo Oyerinde

08034407393

By eei

SUNDAY

Faith 51

SUNDAY MARCH 1, 2015

Interview I’m not useless to my generation, says Rev. Odunze Jnr. p.52

Sermon Lent: Stay Awake, Stand Ready

p.56

News CAN may dump NIREC p.57

Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph online.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

How the Church shapes politics in South-East

P

Tai Anyanwu rior to the All Progressive Party primaries in Lagos state, many Lagosians had the confidence that the former Commissioner for Health and popular grassroots politician, Dr. Leke Pitan would clinch the party’s governorship ticket in the state.

The outcome of the primaries eventually proved that other considerations actually shaped the politics of a given people.

Dr. Pitan governorship aspiration, it was gathered was scuttled because he was considered not a main stream Christian. Hence, he lost the blessings of the APC political godfathers who maintained that only a main stream Christian governorship candidate would attract the needed votes of the state’s Christian community, which they believe strongly would brighten the chances of APC in Lagos.

If this is true, politicians in the South Eastern states of Nigeria precisely Imo and Anambra where the voices of two major Christian denominations, the Catholic and the Anglican are highly Kaigama potent, have the desired advantage.

In Imo state for instance, the Catholic and the Anglican churches, command huge followership, wield enormous political influence on the people. A demonstration of such powers played out in the 2011 governorship election, when the then incumbent governor, Ikedi Ohakim, was booted out of the Government House in Owerri for alleged brutality on a catholic Priest in the state.

Some analysts believe that not many worshippers in the Catholic Church knew what actually transpired at that time. But as soon as the Catholic Arch-Bishop of Owerri, His Grace Dr. Anthony Obinna passed a vote-of-no-confidence on Ohakim, preference swayed in favour of Owelle Rochas Okorocha and the parishioners did the needful.

Ohakim, who is a member of the Anglican Communion, could not be saved by the Anglican Church.

“The reason being that sentiments against him were deep-rooted and the Catholic church in Imo state is bigger than the Anglican communion,” Mazi Ekeoma Njoku explained.

The shortest cut to dwindle into political irrelevance in Imo is for a public office seeker to step on the toes of the major Christian denominations. Much as it is believed that the Catholic Okoh Church is the architect of Okorocha’s emergence as Executive Governor. It would appear that the church near the stadium.

Okechukwu Nkwocha, a social commentator incumbent temporarily lost sight of the enormous in the state was confident that the position of the powers of the catholic faith.

“Today, the Imo state governor, who knows that Catholic Church would determine the political he is not exactly in the good books of the church, victories of every aspirant in Imo. In Enugu state, the scenario is much more comhas been traversing all the major Pentecostal and Sabbaths churches across the state seeking ap- plicated. On December 17, 2014, six Anglican Bishproval to augment for the votes he may lose in the ops in the Enugu Ecclesiastical Province rose from a meeting with a demand on the ruling People’s Catholic Church,” Patrick Ikekwem said.

The church has therefore become the beautiful Democratic Party (PDP) to direct Honourable Ifbride of different classes of Nigerian politicians. eanyi Ugwuanyi, a catholic, who is the party’s Little wonder President Goodluck Jonathan’s governorship candidate in the state, to pick an campaign train anchored in the Imo state capital Anglican running mate or lose their support and city of Owerri, as his entourage paid special hom- cooperation during the gubernatorial election.

In response to the demand, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, age first to the leaders of the Catholic Church and the Enugu state PDP chairman, noted that, the the Anglican Church.

It was gathered that the development did not party did not actually refuse the demand made go down well with the clerics from other denomi- by the Anglican Church but that the request came nations that waited in vain for the president at a very late.

The reason being that sentiments against him were deep-rooted and the Catholic church in Imo state is bigger than the Anglican communion,” Mazi Ekeoma Njoku explained Asogwa, who explained that the decision to choose a female candidate as Ugwuanyi’s running mate was a deliberate attempt to show fairness in the distribution of political positions in the state, adding that, the request came after the party had chosen and submitted the name of a running mate. “Let me say it again that, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is the Enugu PDP governorship candidate, and I want to say that even before the bishops made their demand, the party had forwarded the name of Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo to the appropriate quarters as the running mate to the party’s governorship candidate,” he explained.

There are fears that the unexpected demand, which was not eventually met, could lead to another crisis for the PDP in Enugu State, where the party is just recovering from an internal rift caused by a power struggle between Governor Sullivan Chime and the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

The fears are not unfounded as the Anglican bishops specifically warned against a CatholicCatholic governorship ticket, and also alleged that members of the Anglican Communion have been marginalised in Enugu state The Sunday Telegraph learnt that the disposition was seen as a battle cry against the Roman Catholic Church in the state.

Overtime, there had been rivalries between the Catholic and the Anglican in the state and that shapes political calculations and scheme of things in the state.

Fielding questions from our correspondent in the state, Bishop Sosthenes Eze of the Ngwo Diocese stated that there had been lots of religious injustice in the state.

“For instance, the government at the moment does not celebrate national days like Democracy Day, Independence Day anniversary in the Anglican Church but only at the Holy Ghost Cathedral. They should give attention to all Christians in such matter.”

A respondent who preferred to remain anonymous discharged the bishop’s claim saying: “The Anglican Bishops are merely crying wolves where none existed.

Our source recalled that in the days of old Anambra state, between 1979 and 1983, when former governors Senator Jim Nwobodo and his successor, late Chief Christian C. Onoh, both of the Anglican Communion, were in power, there seemed to have been some muffled complaints from the Catholic quarters but nothing in the magnitude of demanding any specific favour for the Catholic as it has happened now.

Meanwhile, if the Anglicans stick to their threat to vote against PDP Gubernatorial candidate in the state, coupled with the fact that Father Mbaka’s large following might split the vote of the Catholic; the PDP may lose its hold on the state.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

Faith

I’m not useless to my generation, says Rev. Odunze Jnr. As the President of the Family Circle Ministry, Reverend Don Nnamdi Odunze Jnr, celebrates his birthday today, he says he is filled with joy for not being useless to his generation. Tai Anyanwu reports You must be very happy celebrating your birthday?

I feel great that God allowed me to be alive, and to be born in a time like this. I was not born in the days of Martin Luther King and Alexander the Great. I was not born in the days of Joseph and Moses in the bible. God allowed me to be born at a time like this. It is great because, this is my time of relevance. It is a time that God has prepared me for his creation and so right now I feel great that I am alive in the world at a time like this. I also feel great that I am not useless to my world; I am useful to my maker and to the people around me.

What lessons have life taught you?

You can’t exhaust the lessons of life, because right from childhood I have been learning till this moment. I like to ask questions, I learn a lot. I learn from children, as well as from adults. I live on principles, and the first of those principles was infused in me by my late father. This first principle is that, there is God. If there is God, that means I am accountable. I am at liberty to do anything I like, but the bottom line is that I am accountable. With that lesson I handle my life in such a way that I will be proud of my account. I have learnt to be good to people unconditionally, whether old or young, whether they are in a position to help me or not, whether I know them or not. For everyone I come across, I make sure they feel a touch of my goodness. The third lesson is that, there is Heaven and Hell, and after life, the work of my hand decides my final destination. So it’s not about starting the race, but it’s about finishing it. This lesson has helped me because; in front of my house is a mortuary, meaning that my direct neighbour is a mortuary.

At this morgue you hear people cry on regular basis not minding the time of the day. And in most cases, especially on Friday and Saturday morning, you hear the sound of the trumpet from undertakers, connoting someone has been picked for burial. My regular advice is for people to live their lives well, as life does not end here. After now, we all would end somewhere.

Another lesson life has taught me was the one I learned when my younger brother’s wife living in the United States had a baby. I told him to intimate me with his account details so that I could send some money through him to the new born baby and the mother. But, he queried this saying that he should be the one that should send some money to me. I answered him saying that the family comes first before other things. I made him understand that I am now in the position of a father to him since our dad was no more.

If our father was alive he would have sent money to his grandson. He eventually understood. This one great lesson I have learned in life. When a man faces a storm in life, it is the family that stands by him and when death also comes, it is the family that sends you home. It is also unfortunate to see a man splashing money on his secretary, while he remains miserly to his wife who takes care of him at home.

I have learnt that no matter how bad a family member is, you can’t throw him away. There is no perfect family; at least there must be one bad egg somewhere.

There are things you have learnt just because God gave you access to that knowledge. Someone may be seeking that knowledge, but can’t get it. The race is not for the fastest runner What is the secret of your success?

The first secret of my success is grace. I am an Apostle of Grace, I believe that you are what you are not because you are smart, nor the best, but because God made the opportunities available and allowed you to use the brain he gave you. There are people smarter or better than you do, but they do not have the opportunity. It is all by the Grace of God. There are things you have learnt just because God gave you access to that knowledge. Someone may be seeking that knowledge, but can’t get it. The race is not for the fastest runner. The fastest man does not always win; it is possible he develops a muscle cramp along the way. Not all educated people live successful life. Those who are unemployed are the educated ones. If say I am a successful man, it is only by the grace of God. What stands your ministry out among others?

Alright I will share little of it. I want you to know that success has departments. I am committed to what I am called to do. I refuse to be distracted, there are a whole lot of other things to do, but I am one preacher who does not do business. I don’t have a shop anywhere; I only preach the word of God. There is nothing wrong in people who diversify. I look forward to the day I will raise enough capital to do business not only because it brings money, but because it helps to put food on the table. I am committed; I refuse to be distracted, if it is not centered on what I am called to do, you will not find me there. It regulates my association, my thoughts, my meals and lots more. Everything is centered on being able to give a good report about what I am called to do. The second secret that I learned is on self-development.

I love to improve myself on a daily basis. You can’t meet me where I was last year; I can’t be sharing the testimony of last year. Yes, they may be relevant, but there must be testimonies of today. I practice self-development, I should be able to read something today and use it to add value to my life. I should be able to listen to somebody else and learn from that person. I should be able to do something better than I did yesterday. For instance, I rehearse how to preach, it is shocking to hear that. If the artist can rehearse before singing, the athlete can practice before running, why should I not rehearse time management before mounting the pulpit.

Funny enough, when I am all alone, may be in the bedroom, I use a stool as pulpit and I begin to preach to everything in the room. I can preach to any class of persons irrespective of the time allocated, and that has made me to gain relevance everywhere. Let me inform you, there is nothing in life that

Odunze

does not need skills. God gives us the talent but we must develop the skills, and it comes from self-development and practice. The third secret of the ministry is that I am not looking for what I would get, but for what I would give.

I am seeking the opportunity to give. It will shock you to know that I do something every November, when I buy my tapes from my producer, and go to the motor parks of Peace Transport, ABC, Ifesinachi, Ekenedilichukwu and several others to give the bus drivers at least two of my tapes to play to the passengers while traveling. I can say confidently that it has created tremendous testimonies and impact. I do these in Enugu, Owerri and Port Harcourt.

Which top men of God do you look up to?

I believe in mentorship, and it is not just about listening to the person’s tapes, but it’s about relationship. It’s not a facebook affair, it’s about real relationships. Over the years, there are people I have forced my life into them through service to be able to learn. I have not just learned from them but also from their words which have empowered me. Persons like Late Dr. Don Odunze, Late Arc. Bishop Benson Idahosa, Bishop David Oyedepo, Papa Ayo Oritsejafor and his wife. Papa Uma Ukpai, Papa Felix Omobude, Dr. Paul Eneche, Bishop Paul Nwachukwu, Dr. Mike Murdock, and lots more.

Do you wear perfumes?

LAUGHS, Yes I do. I wear good designer perfumes.

Do you wear jewelries?

Yes I do, but that does not mean I can’t do without them.

I make them look appreciable on me.

How was your childhood life like?

I grew up like any other child, but grace gave me a good family background. I had a good godly heritage. I came from a family that is the most blessed on the surface of the earth. I had a father and mother who knew what family is all about. Until this moment, my mother still gives me church offering. I attended kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, and university all in Enugu. I had my Theological training at the Evangel Theological Seminary.

How did you meet your wife?

I met her by grace in a friend’s office in Port-Harcourt. I love her composure and qualities, and I said to myself that this is the woman who can fit into what I am doing. If you meet her, you will love to marry her.

What advice do you have for your well-wishers?

For everyone reading this piece, I believe you can be better than what you are. Don’t give up on yourself; don’t give up on your country and on your family. You can make it.

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Faith

Scenes from the dedication ceremony of Master Emmanuel Chidi Anthony held at Kings in Christ Church, Lagos recently

L-R: The General Overseer of Kings in Christ Church, Rev. Chidi Anthony and wife, at the dedication ceremony.

Evangelist Mrs Tessy Nwokedi with Master Emmanuel at the dedication service

L-R: Rev. Chidi, wife as Apostle Amos dedicated Master Emmanuel Chidi Anthony and other Pastors

A cross section of Kings in Christ Women wing at the ceremony

A cross section of Kings in Christ Choir ministering at the occasion

Rev. Chidi Anthony carrying Master Emmanuel (his fourth child) flanked by his pastoral team

Rev. Chid Anthony welcoming guests at the event

L-R: The managing director of Chivean Point, Mr. Chinedu Ajuonuma, Chief Iheanyichukwu Ajuonuma (elder brother) and Lt. Col. Akpan at the occasion.

L-R: Evangelist Mrs. Nkiru Chidi Anthony Anthony, Rev. Chidi Anthony and the Area Commander Area M, Assistant Commissioner of Police Austin Akika at the event.

Evangelist Mrs. Nkiru Chidi Anthony entertaining her guests at the dance floor in their residence.

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Faith

Lent: Stay awake, stand ready Firm Faith:

Right Reason Most Rev.

Emmanuel A. Badejo fradebadejo@yahoo.

0803 949 4219 (SMS only)

The globalisation of indifference “Lent is a time of renewal for the whole Church, for each community and for every believer. Above all it is a ‘time of grace.’ With those words, Pope Francis began his message for Lent 2015. The pope confirms at the very beginning of the letter that God is not aloof from his people, that we each have a place in His heart and that He cares for us. It is God’s love for us that does not allow Him to be indifferent to what happens to us and to His word. “For God so loved the world that he sent his only son...” (Jn 3:16). We often claim to love God but that is possible only because God loved us first. (1Jn 4:19) If only we all loved like God! Pope Francis’ words describe our general situation succinctly: “As long as I am relatively healthy and comfortable.

I don’t think about those less well-off.

Today, this selfish attitude of indifference has taken on global proportions, to the extent that we can speak of a globalisation of indifference. It is a problem which we, as Christians, need to confront.” Lent must be a time of grace, especially for Christians, to reflect on how sensitive we are to the situation around us whether

we are among those who have “globalised indifference” in any way.

The solution of interior renewal According to Pope Francis: “God’s people then, need ... interior renewal, lest we become indifferent and withdraw into ourselves.” In order to conquer this fatal withdrawal into ourselves, we must take counsel from Saint Paul: “If one member suffers, all suffer together.” (1Cor. 12:26). What this means is that we let God clothe us with mercy and goodness, with Christ, so as to become, like Christ, servants of God and of others. Again, the Pope proposes: “Lent is a favourable time for letting Christ serve us so that we in turn may become more like Him. (Phil 2:5ff). This happens whenever we hear the word of God and receive the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. There we become what we receive, the body of Christ. In this body, there is no room for the indifference which so often seems to possess our hearts.” This solution, of course, cannot simply be wished into existence. Those who wish to bring about the kingdom of God in this way must obviously regularly unite themselves to God in prayer and meditation.

Community and family privilege and duty Put in other words, Christians cannot take refuge in a universal love which embraces the world and fails to see the Lazarus sitting before our closed doors.

Our immediate community and family must benefit from our openness of heart, if it is to be authentic. It becomes a circular movement of giving and taking

The challenge for us all is in putting these terms to practice in everyday life.

Lent is an ideal time to try our very best to do so when we realise that every receiving community, family or individual has the obligation to open up and reach out to others. Thus, with the Church we follow Jesus Christ along the paths that lead to every man and woman, to the very ends of the earth. (Acts 1:8) Think here about our displaced brothers and sisters and victims of various disasters in Nigeria.

How much have you done, lending a hand to ease their pain? What has been your role in reconciliation efforts in our violence-riddled nation? In more practical terms, staying awake and standing ready, in the message of Pope Francis for Lent this year, calls on all Christians to pray for greater openness to the grace of God; to do more charity by reaching out to those both far and near as a concrete sign of our belonging to one human family; and to see the suffering of others as a reminder of the uncertainty of our own lives and dependence on God. He reiterates that in this process of ‘formation of the heart,’ a merciful heart does not mean a weak heart. We must, in fact, remain strong, closed to the tempter but remaining always open to God, the giver of all good things. The challenge for us all is in putting these terms to practice in everyday life. Lent is an ideal time to try our very best to do so.

‘50 Shades of Grey’ Prevention is always better A few weeks ago a movie, reputed to be on the dark side of decency, was launched into Nigeria, showing on private television and the cinemas. It is entitled: ‘Fifty Shades of Grey.’ People who saw the movie differed on it. One of my friends described it as “an erotica which tries to frame sadomasochism and sexual domination as a valid and normal expression of love. This plot in fact epitomises, in all glitz and glam, the darkened thoughts of the violent rapist who believes that their cruel sexual violence is indeed enjoyable even for the one being violated.”

As it turned out, those who saw the movie in a negative light were right because the Nigerian Film and Video Censors’ Board has now banned the movie in Nigeria. With that, “good riddance to bad rubbish.” We have more than enough tragedy and violence in Nigeria, than to add more sadomasochism and violence against women to the burden. However, where was the censors’ board in the first place when ‘50 Shades of Grey’ came into the country? Is prevention no longer cheaper and better than cure?

This should remind us all to be vigilant and discerning about the products of the entertainment world and the media. So many youths are being led into terrorism, rape, drug addiction by media and entertainment messages today. Let us be well reminded of Jesus’ perfect admonition for Lent: “Stay awake and stand ready for you do not know the day nor the hour when the thief will come.” (Matt.

24:43-44)

Evacuating the poison of darkness Insight Rev.

Femi Akinola

www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

W

hen God made man, the Bible makes us to understand that ‘all was very good’. But “… while man slept, his enemy came to sow tares…”, the tares in reality is the poison of darkness to make man’s life miserable on earth and ultimately shorten it. As the name suggests, satan is the author of this satanic poison; he specialises in poisoning man’s joy, thoughts and entire life.

Whatever it is that brings joy to mankind is what he goes after. His scope of evil operation revolves around the marriage of men, the information at the disposal of men and using same to wage war against man.

The Source of Satanic Poison Satanic poison could come in form of spiritual arrows which no form of medical examination or equipment can scan or x-ray. A sister once travelled to her village and in the course of her stay, a spiritual arrow was fired into her breast (in the form of alligator pepper). After she returned to her base in Lagos, the effect of the satanic poison began to manifest.

The doctors tried their best and could not diagnose the cause of her sickness after conducting series of tests; they assumed it to be cancer of the breast. She had to live with the affliction until she was able to pray the exact prayer that addressed the source. She then slept and woke up in the

morning to find four pieces of alligator pepper on her bed and that ended her misery.

These poisons of darkness are the strange materials introduced into the lives of people with the aim of recreating man both physically and spiritually.

They are serpentine materials used to torment mankind. Anything the enemy has projected or injected into your life to disgrace you at any time of your life, they are hereby terminated now in Jesus name.

“They will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mk 16:18 (RSV) This scripture emphasizes the reality of satanic poison but also made provision for its cure; hence, there are numerous ways satanic poisons are injected into the lives of men, some of which include: • When you take in satanic concoctions (mixtures either as herbs or food), you have already opened yourself up to the poison of darkness which can adversely affect your life and destiny.

• Parental transfer: When a woman is pregnant, whatever she does directly or indirectly tampers with the destiny of the child in her womb. A larger percentage of problems encountered by many are traceable to their birth and umbilical cord.

• Through sex: Every casual sex outside marriage, more especially, if the sex partner is an agent of darkness or is possessed, would prolong the journey of destiny and could definitely be infested with the demon (and poison) in the life of the partner.

• Through unrighteous curse: Parents who derive pleasure in raining curses upon their children especially in the

early hours of the day are unconsciously projecting satanic poisons in the lives o their children. This is because such words are not spoken into vacuum but there are demons hanging around to stamp into authority what you have spoken. Any ungodly utterance that has been sent against you and is waiting for you in the future, I command them to catch fire in the name of Jesus.

“And when she was in her hard labor, the midwife said to her, “Fear not; for now you will have another son. And as her soul was departing (for she died), she called his name Benoni; but his father called his name Benjamin.” Gen 35:17-18 (RSV) This woman gave birth to an innocent little boy and wanted to name him ‘Benoni’ saying, ‘because I gave birth to him in sorrow’ but the father quickly rose up and said, ‘no, he shall be called Benjamin, meaning the child of my right hand. That is how the destiny of this young man would have been thwarted even from birth.

• If you have ever dreamt of being bitten by a dog or a pussy cat, then know for sure that you have been injected with the poison of darkness.

• Cursing/Swearing falsely: You know truly that you are guilty of the offence but you go as far as placing a curse on yourself just to make people believe you are innocent, you must be mindful of the gravity of your action.

• Stepping on buried charm: This satanic practice is spreading like wildfire nowadays especially as means of vengeance or to subdue or imprison another man’s glory. Once a man steps on this wicked trap, his destiny automatically assumes a new dimension demonically.

• Demonic consumption: If you have ever eaten from satanic table before, either through dream or otherwise, then know for sure that satanic poison has been introduced into your life. 1 Cor 10:21 Effects of satanic poison •It can cripple one’s spiritual life; once your spiritual life is paralyzed then you are vulnerable to attacks from the coven of darkness. For a firebrand child of God, all they need to do is to first fire arrow of lust/immorality into his/her life before the main attack.

• It makes your helper of destiny to ignore you when it matters most.

• It can lead to miscarriage or abortion of your dream.

How do you evacuate these satanic poisons “Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you.” Luk 10:19(RSV) “They will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mk 16:18(RSV) • By first yielding your life to Jesus Christ.

• By living a fasted life.

• Reverse the effect of the poison and return to sender.

• Confess the word of God. • By praying for a spiritual operation in your life because when the Lord visits you, deliverance is bound to happen.

• Break inherited curses by the help of the Holy Spirit.

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Faith What was your religious background like?

I was born into a Catholic family and I attended the church with my parents in IreEkiti. My father was a knight in the church and my mother was just a member and I grew up in that church. I was an altar servant. I gave my life to Christ in 1977 and my spiritual growth was rapid. I later attended Sanctuary Based Church, Ibadan, Oyo state and moved to Lagos state and was at CAC, Agbala Itura. I later attended Redeemed Christian Church of God and was a worker and later a Minister in the church.

I left RCCG as a minister and joined Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministry.

I came back to Ekiti in the year 2000 and later became a Pastor in MFM too. I was there for eight years and became a Zonal Pastor before God called me out to start this ministry in 2008.

When actually did this church start and where?

The vision was given in July 2002 and I was at MFM then as a Pastor but the name was not given to me until five years later and I received the name on Wednesday, August 22, 2007. The vision became a ministry on June 5, 2008. Vision from God always has a time element, timing is important in God’s programmes and it has to be pursued. Precisely, the ministry became a reality on July 6, 2008 and the first service was held at my residence in Adehun area under a canopy and we were 60 including neighbours and wellwishers. We were under the element of sun and rain for six months until God gave us a rented apartment at Fajuyi near High Court Complex and from there the church grew tremendously. In October 2010, the church acquired three plots of land in front of Trade Fair Complex, Iyin Road. We relocated to this place, the Cathedral of Deliverance, from our temporary location on May 31, 2012.

Among the great things that have happened in this ministry included a woman who did not observe her monthly period for nine years but got pregnant and had her baby. My wife, who was not pregnant for 10 years and who doctors said could not take in, also got pregnant too.

A strange bird was arrested with two horns on the head with facial make up in July 2012.

What is the mission cum vision of the church?

We believe in deliverance through salvation. To preach it to the captive and evangelise salvation through Christ and ensure souls are saved to maintain the deliverance.

But the priority is salvation first. We also train members on how to fight their indi-

Partisan pastors should retrace their steps - Olulodun

Pastor Victor Olulodun, the General Overseer Deliverance and Salvation Ministries, Ado-Ekiti, in this interview with ADESINA WAHAB, speaks on a number of issues including the role of clerics in the current political dispensation Excerpts. vidual battles and win. Liberate those who are slaves to fake prophets. We have just finished our 40-day annual fasting and prayers.

politicians behave like babies by their actions and utterances. They can have negative impact on the society by what they say. People should vote for the candidates of their choice.

We should also desist from political violence.

Politicians should imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship. Whoever loses should accept the loss in good faith. We should put the interest of our country ahead of our own interest.

INEC should also be fair in their dealings.

Is your church not partaking in the ongoing Lenten period?

The Lord Jesus did not give us a specific date to fast, we are not fasting. We pray as led by the spirit of God. RCCG did theirs between January and February. We are not condemning those observing it since the purpose is to seek the face of God. Some people say there are too many churches in Nigeria, what is your view on this?

The Lord says go into the world and evangelise. The churches are not enough; we need more to fulfill the divine mandate. There is no sin in having different denominations since the purpose is to call to repentance the lost souls.

Some people also say Nigerians are religious and not Godly. That crime rate ought not to be this high. What is your take on this?

It is not that churches are not making impact on the society. The truth is that members are not following the preaching of the gospel.

Many people are hearers of the word not the doers and the Bible say only the doers will inherit God’s kingdom. As for some ministers that are misbehaving, some ministers are not called by God as they profess to be.

By their fruits we shall know them. Pastors are not to commit crimes; there are so many wolves in sheep clothing.

They have the form of godliness but deny the power thereof. Pastor is just a title it is your action that shows who you are.

Are you emphasising on holiness?

Yes. It is not being a member, worker or minister in the church that will take us to heaven, it is holiness. Getting your healing is not a license to heaven. It should be our watchword. For us to survive in this wicked world, we must live holy life. Ladies putting on indecent dresses or wearing trousers are

opposing the counsel of God for mankind.

What is the connection between religion and politics?

Religion and politics are separate and should not be mixed. Pastors are not be involved in it. They are to guide, lead and give spiritual instructions. They are fathers to all.

They have members belonging to different political parties in their congregations. They are to pray for all politicians and the country.

Politicians need the prayers of ministers as they are members of different churches too.

Partisan Pastors should retrace their steps so as not to tarnish the name of the Lord.

The N7billion bribery saga is embarrassing.

What do you think led to Christian leaders being dragged in the mud by politicians?

I read that some pastors were given money to support a candidate, if it true, it is very bad. I don’t think a genuine man of God, called by God, should be involved in that. If it is a lie against those pastors, those spreading it should stop so as not to incur the wrath of God. What is your advice for Nigerians on the elections?

Our leaders should have the fear of God because that is the beginning of wisdom.

We must be careful of our utterances. Many

What advice do you have for the youths?

They are the future of the church and our generation. Sins should not be condoned among them. They are to fight sin as if they are fighting leprosy. They are to be monitored and trained to live a holy life.

Your church places emphasis on deliverance, why so?

It is biblical contrary to what some people are saying. God is the first deliverance minister. Jesus conducted it in Isaiah 61 verse 1. Disciples also conducted deliverance in Luke 10 verse 19. Jesus gave them power to tread on serpent and scorpions and we as Christians have been given the same power.

Born again Christians have been empowered to cast out devil.

It is to liberate from satanic prison, be released from captivity and bondage. It will make people hot for the enemies to handle.

People who have generational curses who pray normal prayers cannot be delivered from such problems. Those who need deliverance include people suffering from oppression of darkness and whose trials have refused to end. Those whose problems are not being solved and those in enslaving habits like lying and stealing who finds it difficult to stop should concentrate on deliverance.

Those who operate under evil covenant and curses, coupled with those who have evil flow in their families among others are serious candidates for deliverance.

God is expecting us to become a terror to the kingdom of darkness as His children.

You aren’t a failure till you fail God Mystery ofAnxiety Bishop

John Ogbansiegbe

0803 341 6327

A

barren couple had eight children at once after 18 years of childlessness.

The more a spring is compressed, the greater the force with which it springs back. The setback you are experiencing now should not be a full stop, but it should be a propelling force; moving you to a more forceful start in life. Always say to yourself in every challenge of life: “I AM unstoppable. I must make it. I will try again and again. I can do it!” As you say these words and act on them, success shall surely locate you right at the threshold of your life.

A great philosopher once said: “If you speak to a mountain and it does not

move, climb it. If you cannot climb it, side step it, and if you cannot side step it, dig through it.” I have had to dig through Man Mountains. Now hear this: “No failure is failure until one fails GOD.” The question that may crop up in somebody’s mind now is: “How can I fail God?” The answer is simple. You can fail God by refusing and rejecting the gift of His Son Jesus Christ.

You can fail God by living in sin, evil habits and unrighteousness. You can fail God by deliberately going against the will God and the work of God. A faithless life is also a life of failure. For without faith it is impossible to please God. When you refuse to receive our Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and saviour, you have failed God. When you have no time to pray or communicate with God, read the Bible and go to church regularly, you have failed God. When you as a child of God, have forsaken your first love and lost your zeal for service, you have failed God. Many Christians have forsaken their first love and zeal for Christ. Some are today swallowing the very things they

Many Christians have forsaken their first love and zeal for Christ. Some are today swallowing the very things they vomited some years ago for the Lord vomited some years ago for the Lord.

You see some of them apparently busy with inadequate grace and questionable sincerity. Some are just standing in one place instead of following the Lord exactly as He leads them. Some boast of great achievements which cannot stand the searchlight of God’s perfect will.

Certainly, they did many things in the name of the Lord but not according to His perfect will.

In the matter of God’s perfect will, God prefers exactitude to similitude. Hear now the voice of our chief shepherd and high priest Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God: “Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you.” John 15:14

Are you a friend of our Lord Jesus Christ or are you already a spiritual failure because of disobedience? Forget about your personality and position now and tell yourself the truth. Do you obey Him and do whatsoever He commends you? By the way, are you a good sheep of the Lord? Do you hear His voice? Do you follow Him? Does he recognise you as His good sheep? Are you following Him faithfully even to this day? If your answer is yes without doubt, then you are on the pathway to spiritual success.

If your answer is No, you are on the pathway to spiritual failure. If you can determine and decide to change and repent from today, you can rise again.

Repent before it is too late. Depart from that sin and evil habits now. Our Lord Jesus is merciful and willing to receive you. He shall transform and renew you.

He shall put you on the part of total success. As you make up your mind to live in His will and abide in His word from today, I prophesy to you today that the chapter of failure in your life is over.

You shall rise again in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

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Faith

Divine appointment Word of Life

Bishop

Moses Kattey

moseskattey@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

G

od has not cast away His people, which he foreknew.

Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? How he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thy altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him?

I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace (Rom. 11:2-5) Elijah saw ‘everybody’ kneeling down for Satan through Baal, but God told him (Elijah) that He (God) had appointed 7,000 persons whom Baal had not and could not bring to their knees. These 7,000 men only knelt down to God Himself.

God anointed these 7,000 persons. He created them so and reserved their knees only for Himself.

It is the same today… (Rom. 11:5LB) It is the same today. God has appointed, anointed, created and reserved a number (multitudes) who have not and will never bow their knees to the devil.

Their knees are reserved for the Lord Jesus alone. Neither can they be brought to their knees by the devil or the enemies.

Their knees are to give them victory and sense of victory as long as they kneel down to God. This is divine appointment.

I see myself among this reserved people, this appointed people.

This is the reason I have a sense of victory as long as I kneel down to God. I know I can never be brought to my knees by the devil or the enemy.

If you include yourself among these appointed and reserved persons you will also not just have a sense of victory when you kneel down in prayer, but the victory will manifest itself visibly.

The voice of kneeling You can lie down praying without people knowing that you are praying.

You can sit down and pray without people knowing that you are praying.

You can also stand up or move about without people knowing that you are praying.

However, the moment you kneel down to pray everybody knows that you are praying.

Kneeling is the voice of prayer. The sight the devil hates to see is the sight of kneeling. He knows prayers are going on. Effective prayers indeed take place whether you stand or walk about or sit down but there is a time to kneel down.

When you are in need for a sense of victory just kneel down and pray. Kneel and Win. How did they know that Daniel was praying? (Dan. 6:10). They saw him kneeling down.

God associates prayer with kneeling.

God associates winning with kneeling.

God associates victory with kneeling.

Kneel down to God and have a sense of victory You cannot kneel down to God and He allows you to kneel down to any god or enemy. Neither will the Holy Spirit permit anybody to bring you to your knees if you regularly kneel down to God. All knees must bow It was like a political meeting in heaven before the creation of the earth. All the host in heaven, and all the creatures were

gathered together. Purpose: A flag would be given to somebody. An appointment would be made. What appointment?

Those that gathered were speculating what the appointment was going to be.

Who was going to be given the appointment? Would it not be Lucifer, the Son of the Morning, so exalted by God to coordinate the activities of heaven!

Would it not be the Lucifer, the person in whose personality was like instruments of music and who was the choirmaster?

Who in heaven was so beautiful and dutiful as Lucifer?

As for Lucifer himself he considered himself second to God Almighty. He did not see anybody well qualified than himself for any of such appointment. In fact, he felt, in case of anything, he would be the next God, he would take over from God Almighty. He felt so proud and it showed in his attitude. Lucifer was already planning how he would take over and rule the whole world. He believed any appointment would come to him (Lucifer) before any other person.

Many persons did not know that there was Somebody there who had an appointment that appeared to be lesser than an angel.

But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of a man and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself… (Philippians 2:7-8).

Thou madest him lower than the angels…But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels… (Heb. 2:7,9).

In the mind of Lucifer and other hosts of heaven, somebody whom they did not know was in the race. The angels saw him as a servant, made like man, not like angels, made like a servant and lowly.

It did not occur to them to ask Who that Person was, but by the way, He was not to be given any appointment; such a humble servant.

The eternal appointment

Almighty God, the Father and Creator of all things visible and invisible stood up in the congregation of heaven, came down from His throne, held that humble Servant up and declared: “Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. I will be to you a Father, and thou shall be to me a Son” (Heb. 1:5) Let all the angels worship Him (Heb. 1:6) Almighty God continued His proclamation, and called Jesus, God • Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever, a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy Kingdom.

• Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity, therefore God, even thy God hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

• And Thou, Lord in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the works of thine hands, • They shall perish but thou remanest; and they all shall shall wax old as doth a garment.

• And as vesture shall thou fold them up, and thy years shall not fall (Heb. 1:8, 10,11,12).

The Almighty God continued His proclamation: Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool (Heb. 1:13) • Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: • That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things in earth, and things under the earth; • And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God (Philippians 2:9-11) • Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36).

Trouble makers shall fall into slumber Liberation Tidings Pastor Samuel Daniel

globalgracechurch@ymail.com

08060143296 (SMS only)

“A

nd ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free” – John 8:32.

Whenever it is convent, people want to get close to a truthful man. Also truth can be painful most of the time. However, at the end though, truth always stands.

A lot of people are perverting the truth.

Sometimes, the truth comes along in a harsh way. But truth will always be the truth no matter the waves, storms and tribulation that may come upon the truth.

After all the storms truth always stand firm like a pillar. And that is what the Christian faith is built upon.

Now is Easter time; I like to ask you.

Are you standing on the truth as a child of God? In the office where you work, are standing upon or known for the truth?

Does your family know you as a truthful person? As child of God stay upon the truth because, the truth you know and do will set you free.

Many who seek political offices have in one way or the other done many odds things to secure political offices.

The irony is that many public office

holders either had Christian or Islamic background. And both religion lay claim preaching the truth. I believe they preach the truth as much as they can.

Our political office holder, who have been from both religious backgrounds, need to be asked if they are actually following the truth because the God they claim to serve id the God of truth. And anyone that is following God must be a truthful person. Aptly, the bible tells us that devil is a liar from the beginning; and that God is truth.

Many politicians today have the habit of painting the truth. And we need to ask as many politicians that are seeking political office this question; do you want to occupy the position because you will respect and defend the truth? This question is very important because it is only when we speak, respect and defend the truth that our country will experience success.

All the nations that have achieve real progress stand upon the truth. When we dwell on lies, the nation will not make real progress. It is important for us all to always do as we say. It is important that when say a thing we do just as we say it.

Now many people are seeking political offices, especially now that election is around the corner. Many have also promised to do this and that for the people if they secure the positions they seek after. But how faithful are these political aspirants to their promises? You ought to know that no liar will enter the kingdom of God. The Bible says that what it shall profit a man to gain the whole world and

A lot of people are also losing hope about the economy of Nigeria; but God told me that he is about the business of sanitising Nigeria lose his soul in hell.

If you are using all means to gain power remember that truth will always stand.

When you occupy that exalted position, make sure to hold onto the truth; and when you see the truth, don’t try to turn it upside down. In our society today, we certain truth and when we do we try to sweep under the carpet; because of money and what we want to eat. Hear me. There was a young man in the bible that lost his birth right because of what he would eat.

When you see the truth and cover it, you are already losing your birth right.

Esau lost his birth right because he was anxious to grab a bowel of portage to eat at that moment in time. And he lost all his future benefits.

If you are among those whose eyes are focused on what they would eat now and you know the truth and don’t want to stand by the truth, be careful because that morsel of portage you so desire to eat now cost you future reward. The truth is that the hand of God is upon this nation.

Hear me again, this coming election will

not result in war. God spoke clearly to about that. In my local church also, we have done lots of prayers concerning the peace of this country as God directed us.

He said to me in response that though many have prophesied that there would be war, anarchy and bloodletting, there would be no war because the hand of God is upon Nigeria. God made me to understand that he has a powerful project and destiny for this nation.

He told me clearly that He God has placed many people who are lifting holy hand unto God regarding the affairs of our nation and that because of the prayers the offer day and night on behalf of Nigeria we should relax our minds because there would be no war.

A lot of people are also losing hope about the economy of Nigeria; but God told me that he is about the business of sanitising Nigeria. How He is going to do this I don’t know; he said that many people would desire to come to Nigeria after he is done with the sanitisation.

And you that is preparing to run away because you think that the election would end up in violence; don’t run anywhere, because in the process you might run into danger. Stay wherever you are because there is going to be peace. In fact, it will look like a dream, because many won’t believe how peaceful the elections will be. There might be riot here and there but there will be no war. The future of Nigeria is very bright.

Don’t think, don’t lose hope or run away thinking there is going to be war.

57

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

T

CAN may dump NIREC

Faith

Tai Anyanwu

he umbrella body of Christians in Nigeria, the Christian Association of Nigeria, may soon pull out of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, a body set up to mediate in ethno-religious crises in the nation.

An inside source within NIREC, who informed Sunday Telegraph of this plan, said it was the reason behind NIREC’s failure to hold its meeting since trhe one scheduled for Abuja on February 9 collapsed.

He added that CAN’s threat to pull out of NIREC followed an emergency meeting by some Christian leaders. They alleged that the shabby treatment of CAN leadership by the co-chair and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, had rendered NIREC docile since 2013 despite the rising phenomenon of insurgency in the country.

NIREC, a voluntary association made up of 50 members, (25 Christians and 25 Muslims), was inaugurated on September 29, 1999 by the representatives of the two principal religions in Nigeria - Christianity and Islam.

The source revealed that the inter-religious body, established to provide religious leaders and traditional rulers with a veritable platform to promote greater interaction and understanding among the leadership and their followers as well as lay foundations for sustainable peace and religious harmony in Nigeria, may be heading for extinction.

NIREC is co-chaired by Abubakar, who is also the president-general, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the CAN President, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, with Prof. Is-haq Oloyede as its national coordinator/executive secretary.

The source claimed that Abubakar cancelled the Abuja meeting after Christian leaders, including an 80-year old member, had arrived the Federal Capital Territory on February 8.

“Christian leaders from different parts of the country had flown into Abuja where

Oritsejafor

we were supposed to meet only to hear that the meeting had been cancelled. When some of us went to buy food to eat, we saw a furious Prof. Oloyede, who was asking why we postponed the meeting behind him. When Oloyede got to know that it was the Sultan of Sokoto who postponed the meeting, he did not say a word,” he added.

The source who noted that the last time NIREC met was in Uyo in 2013, explained that the next port of call would have been Gombe. He said there was no meeting throughout 2014 despite the escalation of insurgency last year.

“Some of our friends who were to fly to Gombe for a scheduled meeting had bought their tickets, only for us to get another short notice that the meeting had been postponed. Reason being that the Gombe State chairman had travelled and it should be rescheduled because the man wants to be there.

Sultan Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III

“Another time they said we were going to meet, the Sultan of Sokoto, who is the cochair, told the CAN president that he didn’t want us to meet in Gombe because of the security challenges. So the CAN president said anywhere you want us to meet, I’m ready. So they agreed to meet in Abuja. A date was given. As we were warming up for it, it was cancelled for no just reason.

So from that time till today, we have not met,” the source claimed.

Another source who for security reasons wants to remain anonymous, told our correspondent that those who don’t want NIREC to meet are the same individuals accusing CAN leadership of stalling its meetings.

“I was with Pastor Oritsejafor one day when he called the Sultan and he didn’t pick. So he sent him a text message to remind him of the need for NIREC to meet.

As I speak to you, he has not replied that text message but suddenly it was an-

nounced that we were going to meet on February 9, 2015 and NIREC members should arrive Abuja a day before.

“The invitation stated that there would be a meeting with the president on the morning before the council would meet and continue till night as we normally do.

And that the departure was going to be on Tuesday. Eminent Christian leaders from this country flew into Abuja that evening only to hear that the meeting had been cancelled.

“If there is no need for the inter-religious body then we should pull out of it because we can no longer tolerate this shabby treatment in an organisation where 25 Christians and 25 Muslims are supposed to rub minds to find a lasting solution to religious intolerance. People who cannot tolerate the guts of Pastor Oritsejafor are afraid to convene NIREC meetings,” the source stressed.

Favour comes with blessings Taming your Emotions Bishop

Lawrence Osagie 0806 325

O

0667 www.powerlineministriesinc.org mail:powerlineministries@mail.com

n the sixth month of the year, Angel Gabriel was dispatched to that city to a particular individual. God knows every particular detail of your life. And the message from the angel was delivered to her in an inspiring and congratulatory manner: “Hail.” That word simply means ‘congratulations.’ Can you imagine a stranger from nowhere appears before you in the sixth month of the year and says to you: Congratulation, you are highly favoured by God? Congratulations!

Congratulations!!

Whoever you are, you have found favour with God. And the Bible says this salutation troubled Mary in her heart. I am glad to inform you that favour comes with the blessings of God; favour comes to establish the will of God in an individual’s life. The angel said to her: “Because you have found favour with God, you will conceive in your womb, you will give birth to a baby. You will not die in barrenness. You will give birth to a son, a child ordained by God to sit on the throne of

David. Why? Because God has chosen to favour you, Mary.”

Just put yourself in the place of Mary and imagine impossibilities that human beings never thought of nor were able to figure out happening in your life. I would like you to be cheerful and expectant because the tide of life is already changing in your favour.

The favour of God will do for you what no man can do for you. Mary looked at herself, looked at what God was presenting to her; looked at everything around her – there was nothing about her that gave a sign that anything like that could happen to her. Mary asked: “How can this be seeing that I know not a man?” How can I become a mother when I don’t even have a husband? How can I become the managing director of a multi-million naira income generating company when I don’t even have a dime in my account? How do I become a PhD holder when I don’t even have a school certificate? How do I become such a great dream when looking around me there is nothing to indicate or articulate such an expectation?

In the world over, even till date, the only way a woman becomes pregnant is by conjugal relationship with a man. Even these days many married people have slept together for years without conception. I said this so that you can imagine the surprise of Mary. But the favour of God is making a way where there seems to be no way.

I want to announce to you that favour

Every dead thing will come alive for you, because the set time to favour you is now will open the door men think is impossible.

Favour will buy that car that you think is impossible in your life. Favour will give you the house that another has built. It is not by power nor by might, but by my spirit saith the Lord. “How can these things be seeing that I know not a man?” Mary wondered. When you find favour in the sight of God, the spirit of God, the Holy Ghost begins to incubate in you that thing which God has determined to bring forth.

I perceive in my spirit that the Holy Ghost is about to take over. Where it is obvious to all that you cannot even feed yourself and God is saying He wants to make you a wealthy nation, do not doubt it because Abraham was still physically barren when God called him ‘father of nations.’ It takes a man to impregnate a woman but Mary did not need to wait until her wedding night before her conception came. The Holy Ghost has the power to do all things. And the Angel said: “for with God nothing is impossible.”

What this is teaching us is that there is power in God that changes situations of life. The power that created is readily available. It does not fail. God is never weak or tired. If you can remember that God

parted the Red Sea with the rod of Moses stretched out for Israel, the elect of God to cross to other side of the life then you can be sure that your set time is here. Tears will be gone out of your life. Sorrow will come to an end. Every shame will be removed.

God is about to wipe out your reproach.

God is about to cover your nakedness.

He is about to lift you up. God is about to give you something that you are naturally not qualified for. Why? Because He has favoured you. The favour of God is upon your life; it is upon your business; it is upon your career; it is upon your going and your return.

Elizabeth in her old age found the same grace too. I don’t care how much they have given up on you, God is not through with you yet. He kept your favour till now to make a profound statement. God wants to flex His muscles between now and the next six months. Water will come out of the rock for you. The bitter waters of Marah will become sweet for you. Every dead thing will come alive for you, because the set time to favour you is now.

Mary said to the angel: “I may not understand it all, but be it unto me according to your word.” The word of your confession plays significant role in our lives. And that was why the Shunammite woman said: “It is well;” even though the cold arms of death had snatched the life of her only son.

You must stay positive to activate your faith and get your miracle. God is alive and He is working in every moment of favour.

58

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH MARCH 1, 2015

Faith

Prayer: The Gateway to Open Heaven!

The Voice of Dominion by

Bishop David Oyedepo

7747546-8 (SMS only) It is important to recognise that if we must enjoy open heaven here on earth, prayer is a vital key. So, we pray to open our heaven here on earth.

There was a time the disciples told Jesus to teach them how to pray. He told them: After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done

in earth, as it is in heaven (Matt 6:9-10). When you pray for open heaven, you are simply saying, “Let what happens in heaven happen in my life.” Then you will begin to enjoy outof-this-world realm of exploits.

Remember the man called Samson? When heaven’s strength came on him, he became a man of unusual strength. The Bible recorded concerning Samson’s heaven’s strength: Samson went down to Timnah…As they approached the vineyards of Timnah, suddenly a young lion came roaring toward him. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him in power so that he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat… (Judges 14:5-6).

From the above scripture, Samson killed a lion with his bare hands! That’s not human strength, but divine strength at work in him at that point!

We are told how Jesus prayed and the heaven opened. As it is written: Now when all the people were baptised, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptised, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased (Luke 3:21-22). A voice that will change your level forever, is coming down for you. It will change your position permanently!

God speaking in Jeremiah 33:3 said: “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” You are not entitled to open heaven without a call. For instance, in 1984, while my wife and I were praying, asking God if we were to stay in Ilorin or Kaduna, He spoke from Acts 22:10. When your prayer

is genuinely intense, your answer will be automatic!

Many years past, I was in a three-day fast, asking God why our Church wasn’t growing. He showed me why our Church wasn’t growing and He told me what to do!

There is going to be a turning point season in your life! For your heaven to open, pressing via prayers is the vital key you need (Luke 16:16).

What Is Heaven On Earth?

It simply means the dominion of men here on earth (Psalm 66:7). It connotes empowerment for dominion on earth.

We know that empowerment answers to prayer (Zech.10:1). It takes intense demand for you to be empowered.

Empowerment is essentially at the cost of prayer and fasting. You never come across a man empowered, who didn’t get empowered through prayer and fasting. Once you are empowered, your dominion becomes unquestionable.

Note, there is nothing special about the devil.

There is a defence level where you resist him. (1 Peter 4:7) Also, there is the offensive realm, where you torment and destroy the devil. Remember, power is not free. There is a cost for empowerment.

Purpose of prayer and fasting: One of the things prayer and fasting do for us is to empower us for the next level (John 1:1). For instance, the authority upon Moses was inside the Rod! The power of the world to come is domiciled in the Word.

Every Word encounter is a new Rod delivered.

The Bible says: The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. (Psalm 110:2) So, don’t allow your situation to deceive you. There is no irreversible situation in the world. When you locate the right Word and appropriate it to yourself, your position must change.

When you pray • Pray for divine illumination • Pray for divine guidance • Pray for total health Refuse to be a mere participant; be a partaker of the grace made available for this season. So, be sensitive to divine signals! When you don’t move when others are moving, you will need prayer not to have bitterness.

Friend, the power for open heaven via prayers, is for those saved. You get saved by confessing your sins and accepting Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord. If you are set for it, please say this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour.

Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now I know I am born again!” I will continue this teaching next week.

Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, please get my books: Keys To Answered Prayers and Winning Prayers.

SUNDAY

Sport 59

SUNDAY, MARCH 01, 2015

Amuneke begs Eaglets to win bronze

Okocha: I will serve Delta FA diligently

Football

•There’s a cabal in the NFF

p.61

F

Niger 2015 p.61

Keshi: NFF offered me ‘slave contract’ American Football

Owamagbe: Taking American Football by storm p.60

Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Dapo Sotuminu

ormer Super Eagles captain, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, has raised an alarm that, there is a very strong cabal in the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, which has been controlling the affairs of country’s football administration holding it by the jugular for several years.

Okocha who was elected chairman Delta State Football Association, DFA, last week, said in this interview, that, the cabal is so powerful such that top class Nigerian ex-internationals have found it extremely difficult to get to the top of the country’s football administration. “This cabal would remain unbreakable for years to come.”

Okocha, noted that, compared to other top football playing countries of the world, where ex-internationals get easy ride to their various countries football federations, the situation is different in Nigeria. Here top stars have been shut out.

“A lot of accomplished explayers in Nigeria have tried to become the FA president, but their efforts met a well-fortified brick wall. The likes of Segun Odegbami, Taiwo Ogunjobi, Dominic Irofa and several others have tried to get to the top, but their efforts were rebuffed by the cabal who has been strictly guarding the gate to the FA presidency. They are not relenting, so it would take some years to break them, that is, if that would be possible.”

The former Bolton Wanderers of England captain stated that, it was due to the situation of the relentless NFF cabal that he settled for the post of the Delta Football Association chairmanship. “I have decided to start from here and climb the ladder gradually to the top of football federation in Abuja one step at a time. I know that with time, we shall break the ranks of the cabal.”

He expressed his delight winning election in Delta FA. “I want to give back to my society what they gave to me. I was discovered in the grassroots that is why I have made grassroots football development a priority as chairman of the Delta FA. “My people did a lot for me even after my playing career; a stadium was named after me in

my village. That tells you that I have a lot to do to take Delta Football to the highest level. The good thing about the Delta FA is that, I inherited a well-developed grassroots programme and a first class State Football Association League.

The state FA Cup in Delta is celebrated in the past few years such that it ranks among the best in the country. My duty is to improve on these.

“We also have a Premier League club, Warri Wolves FC, which has played in the CAF Confederation Cup in two straight years and still competing in the 2015 edition of the competition. My job as Delta FA boss is to steer the ship of an exemplary grassroots development and take charge of the administration of football in the state. We also have the players union to take care of aside from ensuring the wellbeing of the various clubs in the state. I was the vice-chairman of the FA for four years which makes my election as chairman long overdue and well deserved.”

The former chairman of the Association of Professional Footballers of Nigeria, APFON, disclosed that he has lined-up a working visit to England in the next few weeks to understudy the management of the English Premier League, EPL, as well as the English Football Association, with a view to getting it right while managing the affairs of the Delta FA. “The English Premier League is the best in the world and it is only ideal to visit top managers of the league like Arsene Wenger and some other top graded managers. “I will be embarking on the working tour of England with my former captain in the national team, Nwankwo Kanu.

“The idea is to learn the rope and come back to Nigeria to impact what we learn on the administration of football not only in Delta state but also in Nigeria. At the end, the Delta FA would be a shining example for other states’ football associations in the country to emulate.

“I will serve and help my people to develop football in Delta to the international level. The Delta FA has a solid structure which we are going to build on. What I know is that the future is bright for me in football administration in Nigeria,” OKocha said.

Okocha

Buffon

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SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport

Owamagbe Odighizuwa: A

Dapo Sotuminu fter the long exploit of Nigeria-born Paul Okoye in the American Football League, a new star has been born in the same league whose potential and influence may surpass that of Okoye.

The new star that has taken the American Football League by storm is another son of Nigeria, Owamagbe Odighizuwa. Today he is an American football defensive end in the UCLA. Odighizuwa was born in Columbus, Ohio. At the age of 3, he moved to his parents’ native Nigeria to live with family in the heart of Benin City in a narrow brick house in the heart of Benin City. “It was really hot,” Owa says of his time in Nigeria. After about five years, he returned to the United States with his family, eventually settling down in bluecollar southeast Portland in 2001.

“I wanted my sons to be able to experience life in Nigeria so they could relate to some of the things when I talk about back home,” Abie says. “It was a blessing for me and I think it gave them a good foundation to start their lives with.”

An appreciation for their roots and an appetite for mom’s homemade “rice and stew” dish - isn’t the only part of their cultural heritage the Odighizuwa boys took away. According to Abie, the name of her oldest son - one of the nation’s most feared high school defenders - translates to “Peace, Love and Joy.”

He grew up playing soccer in Nigeria, and by the time he reached junior high in the David Douglas School District, he was more into track and field and basketball. It wasn’t until eighth grade that he decided to play football. As a senior, he made 90 tackles, including 10 sacks, and recorded 96 tackles, 22 for loss, as a junior. He was selected to play in the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas.

In track and field, Odighizuwa competed as a sprinter (7.44 seconds in the 60metres and 11.8 seconds in the 100metres) and as a shot putter (top-throw of 48-7 or 14.86metres).

Odighizuwa was rated as the second best weak side defensive end prospect of his class, and drew comparisons to Osi Umenyiora. He accepted a scholarship offer to play college football from UCLA on a National Signing Day. He missed the entire 2013 season recovering from right hip surgery, garnering himself a medical redshirt.

He returned in 2014, completely recovered from his injury. He recorded 61 tackles, including 11.5 for loss, six sacks,

Taking American Football by storm

and five pass breakups, earning himself second-team All-Pacific-12 Conference honours.

Being a star player has not been an easy task for as Americans butcher his name while trying to call his praise. “People always butcher my name,” Odighizuwa says with a slight grin. It has happened so many times I don’t even worry about it anymore.”

Owa, is demure but confidence.

He is quiet, but

not

catatonic. Hours before a game, he would sit alone in the locker room listening to Lil’ Wayne in silent meditation. Then he’ll prowl the sideline before kickoff exhorting his teammates to ‘get up!’ and ‘let’s go!’, He’s matured but playful. Polite, but not passive.

“Owa respects people, including his opponents, but he also doesn’t back down from anybody,” David Douglas defensive line coach Greg Carradine says.

“And he won’t let anybody outwork him. He’s strong and fast and explosive, but his work ethic is probably his biggest asset.”

It’s a mettle forged in part by the steely resolve of his mother Abieyuwa (“Abie”), who works the night shift as a nurse’s assistant on the cardiac unit at Providence Portland Medical Center while studying for her nursing degree at Concordia University.

“It’s hard raising four kids on your own as a single mom. For us boys, we try to make things easier f o r her by

just doing what we are supposed to do, doing well in school, staying out of trouble and just staying focused,” Owa said.

Owa pulled a 3.5 GPA in school despite being an active sportsman. He looks after his three younger brothers at home, where the walls include a framed portrait of Abie and her sons alongside a crucifix and a photo of Martin Luther King Jr. “I don’t know how to say what a joy it is to see Owa be such a leader for his brothers,” Abie says. “Owa takes the role of leadership in the house when I am not here, and it gives me a big relief to know I have somebody who can stand in my place. I am blessed to have the four boys God gave me as my sons. I am the proudest mom on the earth.”

Football star or not, Owa has to ask for permission before going out with friends. If his mum says no, he stays without asking any questions.

“Owa is just a menacing presence,” says Terry Summerfield, head coach at rival Barlow High (Gresham, Oregon.). “He’s really a man playing with boys when you look at his ability to physically dominate a game. It’s almost embarrassing how he can manhandle kids at this level.”

There’s a reason the top college programmes in the country have been jostling for position after Owa recorded 96 tackles and 18 sacks as a junior and tonguetied scouts with a breakout performance at last January’s U.S. Army All-American Combine.

61

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 01, 2015

Sport / News

GTBank Masters Cup:

Bayelsa athletes, wrestlers commend Jonathan

Emmanuel Tobi

Chris Ejim

St Gregory’s, Finbarrs in semis

S

t Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, on Friday proved their superiority in school football after walloping rivals Kings College, Lagos 4-1 in one of the quarter-final matches of the GTBank Masters Cup played at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos Island.

Star striker, Olugbo Okey, scored a brace in the 19th and 20th minutes with Afe Eric hitting the third goal in the 22nd minute to send the fans into wild jubilation. Ogakule Diaby however restored pride for King’s College in the 26th minute from the penalty spot’ but the celebration lasted for only eight minutes with Oba David scoring the fourth goal for St Gregory’s to the delight of St. Gregs alumni including GTBank MD, Segun Agbaje.

Similarly, St. Finbarrs who have won the Principal’s Cup more times than any other school in history, confirmed their superiority with a 3 1 victory over Federal Science and Technology College, Yaba.

Earlier on Thursday, Western College and CMS Grammar School treated fans at the Onikan Stadium to a barrage of goals. After a turpsy-turvy match ended 3-3 in regulation time, Western College finally prevailed 4-1 on penalties to advance to the semis.

Also, Jibril Martin Grammar School, Iponri outclassed Grace High School, Gbagada to qualify for the semi-final.

Jibril Martin Grammar School, Iponri beat Grace High School 2-1 to secure the ticket to the semis.

NFF condemns fans’ attack on Ogunbote

T

he Nigeria Football Federation has condemned in strong terms, the attack on Premier League club chief coach, Gbenga Ogunbote, allegedly by fans of Sharks of Port Harcourt.

The First vice-president of the NFF, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, who is also chairman of the NFF Organising Committee, frowned at the attack and stated unambiguously that the federation would investigate the incident.

RESULTS

Barclays Premier League West Ham 1 - 3 Crystal Palace Burnley 0 - 1 Swansea Man. United 2 - 0 Sunderland Newcastle 1 - 0 Aston Villa Stoke City 1 - 0 Hull City West Bromwich 1 - 0 Sout’pton Germany - Bundesliga Bayern 4 - 1 Cologne Leverkusen 1 - 0 Freiburg Dortmund 3 - 0 Schalke Hannover 1 - 1 Stuttgart Hertha Berlin 1 - 0 Augsburg Hoffenheim 2 - 0 Mainz 05 Italy - Serie A Juventus 2 - 1 Atalanta Spain - Liga BBVA Espanyol 1 - 0 Cordoba Granada 1 - 3 Barcelona France - Ligue 1 Marseille 2 - 3 Caen

Lille 2 - 1 Lyon

Keshi: NFF offered me ‘slave contract’

O

ut-of-contract coach, Stephen Keshi, who boasted on Friday afternoon that he has been offered an improved contract by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, yesterday sang a discordant tune when he declared that a perusal of the details of the deal offered him was nothing but a “slave contract.”

He said angrily: “From the clauses I have seen so far, I don’t know what words to use but the contract can be described as a ‘slave contract,’ he said, probably in reference to clauses which make him answerable to several persons and committees.

It was learnt that Keshi has now been offered a two-year contract effective from March 1, 2015 with him to meet several targets or else the deal was off.

He is also required to sign a code of conduct.

A debate has raged whether 52-year-old Keshi should be given a new contract after he failed to qualify the Super Eagles for the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.

His initial contract of three years ran out after last year’s World Cup in Brazil, where Nigeria reached the last 16 knock-out stages.

After a long wait, Keshi, who won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations title, said he had received his new contract from the NFF but had been far from impressed with what was on offer.

Keshi himself revealed that he will be paid N5 million, which was what he also received during his initial contract. He was however silent on whether he would accept or reject the new contract.

The Super Eagles would this month play two friendly matches against Bolivia and Ghana.

Yenagoa

B

ayelsa state athletes and wrestlers yesterday commended President Goodluck Jonathan for initiating and supporting grassroots sports development which has led to the discovery of new talents and lifted the athletes to winning ways in the country.

The athletes and wrestlers under the aegis of the Bayelsa-based Goodluck Jonathan Sports Club led

by Richard Torugbene and Ebeweremi Edison, noted that, the grassroots sport development initiative of President Jonathan has led them to win laurels and medals in major athletic and wrestling competitions in the South-South.

According to the group, the establishment of the grassroots initiative has led to the discovery of one Olympic athlete at the London 2012 Olympic Games, Isa. The group in a statement issued yesterday in Yenagoa, said though the issue of funding and logistics have limited their participation in some national competitions, the decision of the President Jonathan has led to the exposure of talented youths.

“The grassroots sports development initiative has led to the first organised wrestling challenge that brought foreign wrestling teams from Senegal and Niger Republic to Bayelsa. The competition showcased the country to the world as a good host and peaceful country.”

“The initiative has also led to the recruitment of youths for training in sports like wrestling, swimming.

Niger 2015: Amuneke begs Eaglets to win bronze

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olden Eaglets’ chief coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, has psyched his players to go all out for a victory in today’s third-place final against Guinea as parting gift from Niger 2015 CAN U-17 Championship.

He said: “We wished to play in the final but that is no longer going to happen but let us be focused and play the third-place match as if it is the Cup Final,” Amuneke said.

He added: “We have to put behind the loss against South Africa because we can’t do anything about it again; what we can now do is to give our best against Guinea today.”

Incidentally, both Nigeria and Guinea played a pulsating 1-1 match in their preliminary Group a match and Amuneke said it was important for the players to go all out against the Guineans.

He said: “The match today is an opportunity for us to make up for the semi-final loss and again, it is an opportunity to redeem our pride and correct the mistakes we made against Guinea in the last game.”

Nigeria secured a ticket to the 2015 World Cup in Chile by reaching the semi-finals but was halted in their quest for a place in the Final after a 1-0 defeat to Amajimbos of South Africa.

But speaking ahead of the game against Guinea, the former Afri-

can Footballer the Year told the players that a bronze medal is better than nothing.

Meanwhile, all the players ex-

cept injured Christian Charles and Kingsley Michael who are down with malaria; are available for selection against

Guinea. The team is expected to depart Niamey later Sunday night for Abuja after the closing ceremony of the Niger 2015.

Ekanem promises huge surprises at Heineken House

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he Public Relation Adviser, Nigeria Breweries Plc, Mr. Kufre Ekanem, has promised huge surprises for Nigerians who storm the Heineken House in Lagos to watch live streaming of UEFA Champions League matches as from March 17, 2015.

He stated that, as from this date, the Heineken brand, sponsors of the UEFA Champions League would flag-off an SMS-based raffle that would give 90 fantastic prizes to 90 lucky winners in the 90 minutes duration of the matches that would be played each match night at the Heineken House from March 17 until the final game in Berlin.

Ekanem also disclosed that aside from other things, members of the media who have been so faithful with the coverage of the events at the House would also get a huge surprise as one lucky reporter would be selected to watch the final of the 2015 UEFA Champions League in Germany.

In its ninth consecutive year of sponsoring the UEFA Champions League, Heineken is also now

redefining the premium match viewing experience with live interactive Twitter sessions, anchored by surprise global UEFA Champions League football legends and celebrity guests. Every UEFA Champions League match week, Heineken’s #ChampionTheMatch is hosted from different global city.

In recognition of Heineken’s stat-

ure and popularity with Nigerians, Lagos has been selected as one of only nine cities to host the series this season.

At the Heineken House Lagos in Ikoyi, which is open on every UEFA Champions League match night to invited Heineken fans, guests enjoyed thrilling football action.

L-R: Former International, Victor Ikpeba; Public Relation Adviser Nigerian Breweries Plc, Kufre Ekanem; Senior Brand Manager Heineken, Ngozi Nkwoji and Corporate Media/Brand PR Manager, NB Plc, Edem Vindah, at the launch of ‘Champion The Match’ the new campaign in Lagos.

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SUNDAY 1 MARCH, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Vox Pop

Should soldiers support the Police to provide security for 2015 elections?

As the debate about the propriety or otherwise of deploying the military to assist the police in providing security during the 2015 police rages on, we sought to the opinions of some Nigerians about it. Here are the responses of a cross section of those who bared their minds on the issue: Ukwuoma Daniel – Sales Executive

Oluwadamilare Lemboye – Researcher

I

am in total support of the deployment of military personnel to provide security during the 2015 general elections. The reason is that unlike the police, who may be influenced by one or two naira, military men are not easily compromised. There is no doubt that the military will do a better job than the police if we consider past experiences in which the police were found culpable of aiding favoured parties and their candidates to rig elections.

Omotayo Ogundijo - Marketing Executive

I

n my own opinion I think it is very much in order for the Federal Government to allow the military to provide security at the polling units across the country. We are in a country where corruption tends to dictate the lives of the average man/ woman. Going by this reality, I find it quite appropriate for the military to be drafted to support the police in this regard. As you know, it is quite common for people with criminal tendencies to be scared of the presence of the military than that of the police. So, getting the military men to support the police to provide security will further help to reduce violence and minimize electoral frauds.

D

eploying soldiers to provide security during the elections, for me, is a good idea. Anyone living in this country will easily be aware of the fact that the police is grossly incapable to perform that function. Most policemen in the country are too corrupt to have anything to do with election matters. Apart from that, if there are threats of insurgency during elections, do you think our police men are equipped to handle that sort of situation? I very much doubt it. So the military men are welcome as far as I am concerned.

Mrs. Uche Ideho – School Administrator

I

do not subscribe to the idea of getting the military involved in electoral matters. Come to think of it, elections are civil matters and civil related security is the primary responsibility of the police, a role I believe is vested upon the police by the constitution. The military, by their nature globally, are trained to bear arms for the purpose of defending the territorial boundaries of their country. They have no experience in civil matters. So asking them to assist the police to provide security at polling units, for me, is abnormal. The sight of their military gears can easily intimidate voters. I’d rather recommend that a special force be

trained within the police force to undertake that function.

Victor Ekpo – Research Editor

I

personally do not see any need for military men to be deployed to provide security during elections. People say because the military men are not corrupt, that qualifies them to be involved in elections in this country. I refuse to accept that line of thought. Recent revelations regarding the role of the military in the Ekiti elections attest to this. Was it not during the military era in this country that corruption was institutionalized?

Hence the military cannot be immune to electoral related corruption. I don’t know of any country apart from Nigeria where such issues are given prominence. It would be a waste of time and resources to draft the military to provide security during the elections. The police should be allowed to carry out that function. If they have done that in the past, they can still do it again.

Femi Oni – Publishing Executive I support the idea. When you consider the inefficient nature of our police men, the idea of using the military to provide security becomes very desirable.

And it is rather unfortunate that the military are being made to take up the roles of the police in this country.

In other countries, the military is primarily saddled with the duty of defending the nation against any foreign aggression. But

in Nigeria today, the military has gradually become involved in civil issues because the police has proved to be incapable. However, that is not to say that the police should be done away with completely, the authorities must find a way to accommodate them so that the military can complement them.

Olajire Adebusuyi – Admin Officer

I

support the idea to have soldiers provide security during elections. I believe that they are more capable to handle security than the police, especially amidst the prevailing security situation in the country today. Secondly, the presence of soldiers can help to keep away criminalminded individuals who might want to foment trouble during the elections. I am sure when such individuals see the soldiers standing by and well armed, they would think twice before they can embark on any vices. As at today, nobody seems to fear the police any more.

Amarachi Uwazie – Manager

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oing by the security challenges being experienced in the country at the moment, I would support the military to be allowed to provide security during elections. But their presence should be more felt in the troubled areas of the Northeastern part of the country where insurgency is more prevalent.

Fani-Kayode tackles APC on private jets CO NTINUED FROM PAG E 4

lic offices or still occupy public offices acquired these jets. In fact, where did the money with which they procured the jets come from?

“And this is the APC whose leaders pretend to occupy a moral high ground and accuse everyone else except themselves of malfeasance.

“Once again, it is clear that the APC leaders have become prisoners of their own delusions and they are being held captive by their own hallucinations. This is a clear case of extreme paranoia.

“They are running under

the bed when nobody is chasing them. There are no plans to clamp down on anybody in the opposition. Our only plan is to humiliate them before the Nigerian people on March 28 by giving them a crushing defeat.”

In a separate statement titled ‘APC cannot deny Tinubu’s conspiracy to supplant Osinbajo and Buhari,’Fani-Kayode described Mohammed’s response as “feeble.”

“From the APC’s response, it is clear that they have something to hide.

They clearly cannot deny this dangerous plot. Does a vampire ever admit to being a vampire? Did Dr.

Jeckyll ever tell anyone that he was also Mr. Hyde?

Does a demon ever admit to being a demon? Does darkness ever admit to being darkness? Do people that are obsessed with taking power at all costs and by any means ever admit that they are obsessed and desperate?

“We are not surprised by the denials of the APC in this matter. They are and will always be a party built on lies and headed by liars.

The APC are now throwing stones and hurling baseless allegations and insults at our President, our leaders and our party. They forget that those who live in glass houses should not throw

stones. It is not the PDP whose presidential candidate killed people by the application of retroactive legislation and that sent innocent men to their early graves by sending them to jail unlawfully for hundreds of years without any recourse to due process.

“It is not the PDP whose leaders play religious politics and who cannot make a distinction between a political party and a cult. We stand by our claims and the only thing that is outlandish in this matter is the bizarre and insatiable lust for power of the APC and those that are premising their presidential ambition on someone else’s demise.

“Such morbid projections have no place in any civilised society. The truth is that the APC is a party that is used to sordid, bizarre, byzantine and subterranean back-room deals where people take bloodchilling and cultic oaths and in which people are asked to sign perjurous and illegal letters of resignation even before they are elected into office. If anyone doubts that they should ask Pastor Tunde Bakare who was asked to sign a letter of resignation by both Tinubu and Buhari in 2011 even when he had not been elected to the exalted position of Vice President.

“We wish General Bu-

hari good health and long life and it is only a small handful of desperate and unconscionable elements within the leadership of his own party that wish him otherwise. We advise him to watch his back and take full measures to protect himself against these desperate elements because their plan is, at worse, for either Tinubu to take over the position of vice-president after the planned resignation of Osinbajo and then wait for something untoward to happen to Buhari so that he can take over or, at best, for Osinbajo to take over and for Tinubu to rule through him.”

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2015

Why presidential candidates must debate 2014 National Conference Report C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 6 4

6(5) beginning with the Supreme Court has a portion of chapter Seven dedicated to it, each is today the subject of a separate Act of the National Assembly or the law of a State. We today have the Supreme Court Act, the Court of Appeal Act, the Federal High Court Act, and the High Court of the FCT Act. At the state level, each State has a law establishing the State High Court, the Customary Court of Appeal and the Magistrates’ Courts. Each of these Acts or laws is a repetition of the provisions of chapter Seven or part thereof. What then is the essence of chapter Seven? The same goes for the other three chapters – chapter Five, chapter Six and chapter Eight. For example, there is the FCT Act – establishing the FCT, Abuja.[6] Nigeria has never had a truly democratic Constitution. To be sure, the country has had legal constitutions, but they have hardly been legitimate. A Constitution may be legal but not legitimate, as in the Nigerian case. The country has never adopted a participatory or process-led approach involving the various nationality groups and the various communities, constituencies and interests that make up the country in compacting its constitutions. It has consistently been elite-driven, with the state playing a critical role in determining the content of the final document. It is no wonder that the Constitutions have hardly served as coherent compacts for determining the relationship between the ruled and the rulers and none has been able to ensure the rule of law and popular participation much less transparency, accountability and social justice. Nigerian Constitutions have been opportunistic documents designed to perpetrate what could be regarded as a political fraud on the nationalities of Nigeria in particular minority groups and non-bourgeois constituencies. [7] The 1999 Constitution (which is actually Military Decree No 24 of 1999) hardly demonstrates any sensitivity to these issues. It hardly pays attention to questions of autonomy or reorganisation of political power and though it pays so much attention to power and the definition of power, it is still lopsided in favour of the centre.

The states of the federation do not have control over their own resources. This is still the exclusive preserve of the federal government that has guaranteed only 13% of generated revenues to the states where the resources are generated.

This is no different from the situation under the military where the federal government illegally appropriated the resources of units of the federation and doled out meager portions to them under dubious fiscal arrangements.

The debate in the oil-bearing and producing communities of Nigeria has long gone beyond percentages to one of control. The 1999 Constitution could not have been more unrealistic and out of touch. Under the 1999 Constitution, the states cannot set up their own Police forces.

The State Police Force (SPF) is only a branch of the Federal Police Force under a federally appointed Inspector General of Police. Section 214 (1) is clear on the fact that there shall be a Police Force for Nigeria, which shall be known as the Nigeria Police Force, and subject to the provisions of this section no other police force shall be established for the Federation or any part thereof. According to Section 214 (c), it is the National Assembly that is empowered to make provisions for branches of the Nigeria Police Force forming part of the armed forces of the Federation…. And the Commissioner of police for each state shall be appointed by the Police Service Commission. Even more ridiculous in a federal system, is that in the event of a need to maintain or secure public safety and public order within the state, a governor may direct the commissioner of police to take necessary action,[8] while the Commissioners in turn take orders from above.

This is because according to section 215 (4), before carrying out any such directions the Commissioner of Police may request that the matter be referred to the President or such Minister of the Government of the Federation as may be authorised in that behalf by the President for his direction. After Nigeria’s experience in

Akinyemi

the first republic, and given the bitter partisan quarrels that accompanied the 1998-99 elections, the federal government can hardly be regarded as not being partisan much less interested in objectively responding to crises in states if such crises might weaken the opposing parties. The Federal Ministry of Education does not just play a supervisory role; it also dictates policy to the state departments of education.25 In fact, one of the first acts of General Obasanjo as the democratic president of Nigeria was to pay the salaries of striking teachers in the states. As it turned out, General Obasanjo had illegally appropriated monies belonging to the state governments to perform this ‘magnanimous’ act, for which he took a lot of credit! [9] THE ETHIOPIAN EXAMPLE OF A NEW CONSTITUTION The Ethiopian constitution of 1994 directly addresses issues of language, nationality, sovereignty of the people, supremacy of the constitution, human and democratic rights up front. A country like Nigeria might actually draw some lessons from Ethiopia. It is clearly a Constitution that has drawn very painful lessons from the past. Rather than pretend that ethnic consciousness and identity are superficial and try to homogenise the diverse peoples of Ethiopia, the Constitution declares that “All Ethiopian languages shall enjoy equal state recognition,” though “Amharic shall be the working language of the Federal Government.” It however allows “Members of the Federation” to “by law determine their respective working languages.”

In Article 8, the Constitution vests “All sovereign power” in “the Nations, Nationalities and Peoples of Ethiopia;” declares the Constitution as “an expression of their sovereignty” and that “their sovereignty shall be expressed through their representatives elected in accordance with this Constitution and through their direct democratic participation.”

In some way, this means that a military government is clearly illegal even if this was not expressly stated as in the cases of Ghana and Uganda. The Constitution declares that it is the ‘supreme law of the land’ and any other law shall be of no effect and that “It is prohibited to assume state powers in any manner other than provided under the constitution.”[10] This is obviously dictacted at those military interests that might have ideas about overthrowing the government. The Constitution makes provisions for non-state religion and there is an elaborate coverage of fundamental rights and freedoms.

It gives voice to international treaties on crimes against humanity ratified by Ethiopia and declares that such crimes “shall not be barred by statute of limitation. Such offences may not be commuted by amnesty or pardon of the legislature or any other state organ.”[11] Article 33c guarantees Ethiopian nationality to those who already have them as “No Ethiopian national shall be deprived of his or her Ethiopian nationality against his or her will.” The rights of women are directly addressed in Article 35 including ‘equal rights with men,’ and declares that “the dominant legacy of inequality and discrimination suffered by women in Ethiopia taken into account, women, in order to remedy this legacy, are entitled to affirmative

measures. The purpose of such measures shall be to provide special attention to women so as to enable them compete and participate on the basis of equality with men in political, social and economic life as well as in public and private institutions.”

Finally, the 1994 Ethiopian Constitution, unlike most Constitutions in Africa directly engages the nationality question. It declares that “every Nation, Nationality and People in Ethiopia has an unconditional right to self-determination, including the right to secession;” “Every Nation, Nationality and People in Ethiopia has the right to speak, to write and to develop its own language; to express, to develop and to preserve its history;” “Every Nation, Nationality and People in Ethiopia has the right to a full measure of selfgovernment which includes the right to establish institutions of government in the territory that it inhabits and to equitable representation in state and federal governments.”[12] Specifically on the right to secession, according to the Constitution, this comes into effect “when a demand for secession has been approved by two-thirds majority of the members of the legislative council of the Nation, Nationality or people concerned;” When the Federal Government has organised a referendum which “must take place within three years from the time it received the concerned council’s decision for secession;” “When the demand for secession is supported by a majority vote in the referendum;” “When the Federal Government will have transferred its powers to the Council of the Nation, Nationality and People who has voted to secede;” and “When the division of assets is effected in a manner prescribed by law.” When this Constitution was adopted it was anticipated that Ethiopia would fall to pieces in months.

Yet, what this provision has done is to take the rights or struggle for self-determination out of the battlefields, the jungles and terrorist enclaves into the political process through a collective determination of the steps and processes needed for self-determination.

In a country where states are “delineated on the basis of the settlement patterns, language, identity and consent of the people concerned” as in Article 46 and where Article 47 further states clearly that “Nations, Nationalities and Peoples within the states enumerated in sub-article 1 (of Article 47) have the right to establish, at any time, their own states”, it would seem that by making the process open, democratic, possible, and within reach, it has to a very large extent contained the cries and calls for self-determination. Nigeria needs to borrow this.

Ethiopia has had a history of coups and counter coups in the past. The new Constitution in several articles therefore attempts to address this issue. In Article 87, it states clearly that the “composition of the national armed forces shall reflect the equitable representation of the Nations, Nationalities and Peoples of Ethiopia:’ that the “Minister of Defence shall be a civilian,” and that the armed forces shall defend the sovereignty of the country and carry out assignments in accordance with the Constitution. In fact, the Constitution states categorically in Article 87 (4) that “the armed forces shall at all times obey and respect the Constitution.”

While these might not stop coups, they initiate a steady process of subjugating the military to civil order. Democratic governments in Africa tend to concede the democratic platform to the military by appointing active or retired military officers to head the defence ministry. Of course, it is clear that Ethiopia has used its Constitutionmaking experience to respond to the perpetual crisis of ethnicity and has drawn lessons from the costly war that culminated in Eritrea’s independence. I cannot think of a better and more effective way to openly acknowledge and protect the rights of minorities and nationalities in the contemporary world. Making a constitution is only the beginning of the struggle. Using it as the basis of governance and justice is the real measure of progress.

THE WAY FORWARD REFERENDUM/PLEBISCITE: TO BE OR NOT TO BE The National Conference reports needs to be

subjected to a popular national referendum or plebiscite of the Nigerian people, to have their legitimacy. What is required is the political will of the President, the patriotism of the National Assembly and the vigilance and insistence of the citizenry and civil populace, to insist that the decisions of the Confab be subjected to a popular plebiscite or referendum of the Nigerian people.

This will give Nigerians a brand new Constitution that is at once indigenous, authochthonous and homegrown. Such a Constitution will enjoy the legitimacy, respectability and acceptability of the Nigerian people. It will herald in a new dawn of self-pride, better understanding and a renewed energy by all Nigerians to live together in an atmosphere of peace mutual respect, fairness, equity, justice, egalitarianism and development.

The Conference had itself at page 383 of Annexure 1 (Committee Reports), Volume 1 boldly pointed the way thus: “On legal reforms, the Committee recommended that the President should implement the policy recommendations directly and charge Government Agencies to initiate the amendment to those Acts relevant to their operations as recommended by the Conference. For those requiring amendments to certain Sections of the Constitution or the emergence of an entirely new Constitution, the Conference should draft a Bill to that effect for the President to forward to the National Assembly for further actions. Also, Conference recommendations should be taken to the Court of public opinion/Referendum, if the need arises.”

This recommendation was never defeated on the floor.

Surprisingly, at page 173 of the Main Report this lofty recommendation was watered down as follows: “Policy recommendations arising from the Conference should be implemented by the Presidency; Recommendations requiring abrogation or amendment of existing Laws other than the Constitution should be initiated/carried out by the relevant Authorities, Ministerial Departments and Agencies.”

This was not what the Conference agreed upon.

It is page 383 of Annexure 1 that captures the correct position and the mood of the Conference.

All said and done, the National Conference was a huge success.

I urge Nigerians to vote for a President who believes in the work of the National Conference, and who would ensure the implementation of its lofty and historic recommendations.

CONCLUSION The National Conference 2014 was a huge success, shaming the doomsday forecasters, the status quo czars, historical revisionists, and ethno-religious bigots who had predicted and worked towards its failure.

Nigeria has, by Conference decisions, been forever retooled and re-engineered, when these resolutions are dutifully implemented. How do we bring these about in a new Constitution?

This is the challenge which the presidential candidates must squarely address. All the issues about insecurity, corruption, bad economy and lack of infrastructure are predicated on a faulty foundation of our national co-existence. It is impossible to wipe out corruption, or even tame it, or fight insecurity, when the fundamentally flawed 1999 Constitution overtly encourages them. The problem must be tackled headlong through the introduction of a brand new Constitution. You do not cure a serious ailment such as leprosy with a drug meant for eczema, or skin rashes. You do not kill a tree by cutting off its branches. It will soon sprout and germinate others. You kill it by uprooting it from its very tap root, root, stem and branches. You do not prevent a building from falling by merely patching up its cracked walls with cement and mortal.

You dig deep into the foundation, put iron rods and basket it from the deep soil.

Are the Presidential candidates reading and hearing this sermon on the mount of the Nigerian Project by Chief Mike ozekhome, SAN, OFR, FCIArb? • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

SPORT

Okocha: I will serve Delta FA diligently }59

FAITH

Sanctity of Truth

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How the Church shapes politics in South-East

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Why presidential candidates must debate 2014 National Conference Report (3) QUESTION TIME AND STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS Conference introduced Question Time for the President and Ministers and an annual State of the Nation address by the President to be delivered before a joint sitting of the National Assembly.

EXCESS CRUDE ACCOUNT AND 1ST LINE CHARGE An Excess Crude Account is to be established, while a first line charge on the Consolidated Revenue Fund was extended to the State Security Service, EFCC, ICPC, Fiscal Commission and Transport Infrastructure Development to make them independent. Failure to release money to these bodies is made a criminal offence.

SEPARATION OF THE OFFICES OF THE ACCOUNTANT GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION AND ACCOUNTANT GENERAL OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT. The office of the Accountant General of the Federation was separated from that of the Account – General of the Federal Government.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICES OF PRESIDENT AND GOVERNOR Qualifications for the offices of President and Governor were reviewed upwards to include a University Degree, and that a person convicted of an electoral offence ten years before an election is disqualified from that election.

CARPET – CROSSING AND GOVERNMENT SHUT DOWN. Carpet crossing was abolished. Similarly, where a budget is not approved by December of any year, there shall be a total Government shutdown, as the incumbent government is prohibited from using money from the Federation Rotation of Presidency and Governorship Account.

ROTATIONAL PRESIDENCY AND GOVERNORSHIP On rotation of the Presidency, same shall be between the North and South and offices amongst the six geo-political zones. At state level Governorship shall rotate amongst the three Senatorial zones, whilst chairmanship of Local Government Councils shall be rotated amongst the various diverse groups of that state.

APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS AND 35% AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR WOMEN The President is to appoint not more than 18 Ministers from the six geopolitical zones (a maximum of three from each), so as to curb waste in government. Women were given affirmative action of at least 35% of positions in Government.

INTRODUCTION OF SUPREME COURT FOR STATES Each state is to have its hierarchy of Courts up to the highest (supreme) Court of a state called the State Court of Appeal.

ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE POLICE AND

The

Nigerian Project

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08128444555 (sms only) not to form or join any political party.

CHANGING THE FACE OF ELECTORAL MATTERS All the innovations made on electoral matters such as that no candidate shall be sworn in after an election until conclusion of Judicial proceedings arising from it have been concluded, were upheld.

ESTABLISHMENT OF RELIGIOUS EQUITY COMMISSION AND ABOLITION OF GOVERNMENT SPONSORED PILGRIMAGES While irrevocably affirming and re-asserting the secularity of Nigeria, Conference recommended that henceforth, governments at all levels shall not be involved in the sponsorship of religious pilgrimages. The conference also established a Religious Equity Commission to nip religious crisis in the bud through whistle blowing, detect and punish religious extremism and hate preaching.

Perhaps, it is apposite to adopt wholesale, the entire Executive Summary of the Conference on Law and Judiciary Committee with a view to underlying the importance of the ground breaking decisions of the Conference and why they must be fully implemented.

NEED FOR A NEW CONSTITUTION As many have observed, the Nigerian Constitution 1999 as a whole is a veritable fraud as it is flooded with series of frauds. For example, it opens with a blatant lie about itself.[1] “We the people …DO HEREBY MAKE, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES the following Constitution.” We, the people of Nigeria did not make this Constitution. It was the then Military Head of State, General Abudusalami Abubakar, who lied in the preamble that ‘We the people of Nigeria….’ made and enacted it.

The Constitution is Decree 24 of 1999, pure and simple. It was attached to the Decree as a mere schedule.

Again, the purported federalism Nigeria operates is a fraud as it falsely parades Nigeria as a federation whereas Nigeria ceased to be a federation in 1966, with the abrogation by the military of the 1963 federal constitution. With the

Kutigi

demobilisation of the earlier federating units, its present states, the alleged federating units, have no Constitutions of their own, making them false federating units; It lacks fiscal federalism: its behemoth Central Govt. (falsely called “Federal Govt.”) takes for itself a lion’s share of the country’s resources and gives crumbs to the 36 states and the 774 Local Governments; they are thus not economically self-reliant entities but subsist on allocations from the Central Government; they are, consequently, mere economic dependents and administrative agents of the Central Government—which is contrary to federalism; The 1999 Constitution as it presently is, is the godfather of corruption, through the immunity clause 308. (1), which protects, and thereby implicitly invites, looting by the highest officials who have brazenly set the terrible example that the rest of society have emulated. However, it ostentatiously declares in Section 15. (5) that “The State shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power;” thus giving the false impression that it is for fighting corruption. But it then surrepti-

BUSY BODY

tiously annuls Section 15.(5) by its ouster clause.

It is a fraud when it purports to empower the State to fight corruption but then surreptitiously discourages it from doing so. That’s double duplicity!

Furthermore, the 1999 Constitution surreptitiously relieves the Nigerian State of the customary and fundamental responsibility of a state for the welfare and security of the people it rules: This is done by technically annulling the obligations clearly and ostentatiously stated in its own “Chapter II : Fundamental Objectives and directive Principles of State Policy”. Chapter II is surreptitiously ousted in Chapter I, thus: (6) The judicial powers vested in accordance with the foregoing provisions of this section (c) shall not except as otherwise provided by this Constitution, extend to any issue or question as to whether any act of omission by any authority or person or as to whether any law or any judicial decision is in conformity with the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy set out in Chapter II of this Constitution; [2] This is the ouster clause, since nobody can go to court to enforce any chapter II provision.

That is to say, if the government omits to act on chapter II, it cannot be sued by any over or be compelled by any court to do its constitutional duty. This clause, by making chapter II nonjusticiable, effectively makes it unenforceable, thus ousting it.

Our Constitution has eight chapters, 320 sections and seven Schedules. It covers 166 pages typed single spacing. By any standard, it is a lengthy document and as Constitutions go, it is not among the shortest. By comparison, the USA Constitution has seven Chapters (called Articles) and 24 Sections. It has been amended only 27 times in its over 300-year history. The French Constitution has 18 chapters (called Titles, now 17 with one repealed) and 89 Articles. The Japanese Constitution (1946) has 11 chapters and 103 Articles. Nearer home, the Liberian Constitution 1986 has 13 chapters and 97 Articles. They are examples we can follow.[3] However, Nigeria is not alone in the list of countries with lengthy Constitutions. Ghana has a Constitution of 26 chapters and 299 sections.

South Africa’s Constitution has 13 chapters and 230 Sections. Because of its length, South Africa’s Constitution adopted in 1996 had by 2003 (only seven years later) been amended 13 times. The Nigerian Constitution is still longer than any of these.[4] A cursory look at Section 6 and Sections 230296[5] will convince any objective observer.

Though each of the 10 Courts listed in Section C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 6 3

By Aliu Eroje

COMMUNITY POLICING Recommended were State Police and Community Policing as in some advanced countries of the world, such as USA, to stem the tide of crime. National Border Patrol Guards to Police or vast and extensive borders was also recommended INDEPENDENT CANDIDATURE Independent candidature was recommended by the Confab to expand the political space, where some popular candidates may decide Printed and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos. Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: 01-8541248, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: EMEKA MADUNAGU.