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Sanctity of Truth

Sunday, MAY 17, 2015 Vol. 2 No. 452

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I can’t pose nude in any musical video - Seyi Shay

betrayed and dumped

}17

}4 lSAD STORY OF PRESIDENT JONATHAN I’m not surprised, I expected it - Jonathan

Double tragedy I hardly saw my husband for eight years, says Abimbola Fashola }41 Couple dies two months after wedding Borno Senator-elect 12-yr-old suicide l Married March 6, 2015 dies of liver cancer bomber kills l Groom perished May 6 lTambuwal’s successor seven in Yobe lBride followed May 8 emerges May 28

}5 lGroom’s dad died May 9

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 17.05.15 BODY & SOUL

Kicking away Ebola First female Provost of UNILAG medical school, Folashade Ogunsola, recounts how fear propelled the Federal and state governments to fight Ebola in Nigeria

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POLITICS

Buhari’s ‘kitchen cabinet’ Ahead of the inauguration on May 29, indications are rife that the current 19-man Transition Committee will form the nucleus of Muhammadu Buhari’s government

}31

BUSINESS

Fuel scarcity remains Oil marketers insist on extracting the commitment of the President-elect that his policy on fuel subsidy will not hurt their investments in the Nigeria’s downstream oil industry

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FAITH

Casualties in Buhari’s government If Buhari brings the kind of gut he had when he was a military Head of States, Muslims may be casualties in his administration

}51

SPORT

Pastor Taribo, a coach Pastor Taribo West, a former Super Eagles defender who played in two World Cup finals for Nigeria, believes strongly that as a pastor he is also doing the job of a coach

LIFE

}59 Burden of a First Lady First Lady of Lagos State, Dame Abimbola Fashola, opens up on how she misses having her husband at her beck and call in the last eight years

}41

SUNDAY

Editorial

The perennial scourge of oil theft

il bunkering has continued unabated with serious negative impact on the Nigerian economy. Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani AlisonMadueke revealed that in the last three years Nigeria has lost between 100, 000 to 400, 000 barrels per day. To this end, there is the need for regional and continental collaboration to this festering economic sabotage, as oil bunkering costs the nation $9 billion monthly. The Nigeria Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI) also revealed that over 136 million barrels of crude oil worth $ 10.9 billion were stolen between 2009 and 2011, which represented 7.7 per cent of the total revenue. About 10 million barrels valued at $ 894 million was also lost to various nefarious activities including pipeline vandalisation in the first quarter of 2014. These figures are at best conservative estimates. The figures bandied around are just a tip of the iceberg. It is an established fact that Nigeria does not know for sure the exact barrels of oil it produces per day, it does not know the exact barrels of oil it imports into the country from various parts of the globe, it does not know the exact amount that goes into the Federation Account, hence it is difficult to know the exact amount being stolen under different guises. The recent sharp drop in global oil prices has only compounded an already bad situation. With an estimated 400,000 barrels of crude oil lost to oil theft daily, the price volatility in crude futures underlines the dangers confronting the nation’s finances, which is already feeling the shockwaves including devaluation of the naira, adjustments to the 2015 budgets and the looming spectre of a moratorium on new government projects. Furthermore, the African Development Bank Group had in its African Economic Outlook 2014 listed oil theft as one of the factors responsible for the drop in oil revenue in Nigeria. The report, which covers 54 African countries, presents the current state of economic and social development as well as prospects for countries in the continent. According to the report, Nigeria had been battling with serious disruptions in oil production and lifting operations occasioned by multiple leaks, pipeline vandalism and oil theft. According to reports, Nigeria is ranked worse than Mexico, Iraq, Russia and Indonesia among the top five countries most plagued by oil theft. Oil bunkering is very big business for lo-

cal cabals and their international conspirators. It has been alleged that those involved are very highly placed and strategically located in and out of government, and they fund politics and elections in the country. Hence, they belong to the exclusive class of the untouchables, because if government brings them to book it would amount to class suicide. Government needs to deal decisively with culprits no matter how highly placed or connected. There cannot be two sets of laws in the country, one for the rich and the other for the poor, because equality before the law is a cardinal principle of the rule of law and democratic ethos. This government has said it has zero tolerance for corruption; this is one area that it should really show a zeal for fighting corruption. The President who is also the Commanderin - Chief of the armed forces should read out the riot act to the security agencies and give them a free hand to operate. Nigeria that used to be the sixth largest oil producing country in the world and a key member of OPEC, is now placed 12th with most of the oil used locally in the country externally sourced. It would be recalled that only recently the Federal Government said, it would fight oil theft with $1 billion by putting in place a comprehensive programme to check crude oil and gas infrastructure, including the arrest and prosecution of crude oil thieves. According to the Federal Government, “oil theft is an aspect of global terrorism, which has become a big industry on its own. It has become a major threat to the Nigerian economy and we need to work with all stakeholders to curb it. The thieves must be traced, apprehended and prosecuted”. Government must move speedily from mere expression of intentions to really tackling the menace. The only reason the illegal oil laden vessels disappear is that compromises must have been made because of pecuniary gains. Policing oil pipelines and oil installations should not be a big deal, but in Nigeria it has be a major challenge. Those that are supposed to protect the oil facilities in the country are also part and parcel of the problem because they are benefiting from the illicit transactions. Hence, there is the exigent need for the deployment of technology to rescue the deteriorating situation in the crucial sector. There must be regional, continental and inter-continental collaboration to effectively stem the scourge, as well as the political will and sincerity on the part of government.

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

Eric Osagie

Editor n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor n Suleiman Uba Gaya

Editor, Saturday n Laurence Ani

Editor, Sunday n Emeka Madunagu

Deputy Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah

Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz

Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins

Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Ag. Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi

Asst. Editor, News & Politics n Biyi Adegoroye

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed

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Head, Graphics n Timothy Akinleye

Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 17 MAY, 2015

SPECIALonREPORT The 8th Senate’s Fresh Generation Godswill Akpabio

Aliyu Wamakko

Jonah David Jang

Stella Adaeze Oduah

Samuel Egwu

Theodore Orji

Mao Ohuabunwa

Uche Lilian Ekwunife

Buruji Kashamu

Jeremiah Useni

Abubakar Kyari

Ben Murray Bruce

Peter Nwaoboshi

Biodun Olujimi

Dino Melaye

Monsurat Sunmonu

Bayero Usman Nafada

Bala ibn Na’Allah

Isiaka A. Adeleke

Abubakar Danladi

Adeola Olamilekan

Binta Masi Garba

Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim

Mustapha Bukar

Duro Samuel Faseyi

Fatimat O. Raji-Rasaki

Shehu Sani

Mustapha Bukar

Philip Aruwa I Gyunka

Buhari Abdulfatai

Suleiman O. Hunkuyi

Osinakachukwu Ideozu

Danjuma La’ah

Bassey Albert Akpan

Olanrewaju Tejuoso

Mohammed A. Ohiare

Nelson Asuquo Effiong

Achonu A. Nneji

Sabo Mohammed

David Umaru

Umaru Ibrahim Kurfi

Barau I Jibrin

Nnaemeka Anyanwu

Clifford A. Ordia

John Enoh Owan

Mathew A. Urhoghide

Utazi Godfrey Chukwuka

Rilwan Adesoji Akanbi

Gbolahan Dada

Abdul-Aziz M. Nyako

Francis A. Alimikhena

Olaka Johnson Nwogu

Ogba Joseph Obinna

Tijjani Yahaya Kaura

Donald Alasoadura

Rose Okoji Oko

Yele Omogunwa

Ogola Foster

Gershom H. Bassey

Suleiman M. Nazif

Malam Ali Wakili

Abdullahi A. Gumel

Marafa Bashir Abba

Yahaya Abdullahi

Abdulrahman Abubakar

Salihu Hussain Egye

Mohammed Garba

Ighoyota Amori

Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi

Ahmadu Abubakar

Mohammed Hasan

Isah Hamma Misau

Ibrahim Abdullahi

Muhammad Ubali Shitu

On June 4, 2015, the eighth Senate of the National Assembly will be inaugurated. Of the 109 Senators who will be taking their seats, 74, representing 66 per cent will be fresh in the upper chamber. Who are these fresh Senators? What are their backgrounds and antecedents? What quality of debate and contributions are we likely to see from them? These and more will be the kernel of a special report by New Telegraph on that day. The report presents a unique opportunity for family, friends and associates of these fresh Senators to felicitate with them. For enquiries and participation: Call Biodun: 0802-301-5582, Taiwo: 0803-304-2915, Onwuka: 0803-733-9843, David: 0810-759-1663

SUNDAY 17 MAY, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Betrayed and dumped by friends: Sad story of President Jonathan

Anule Emmanuel

hristian Nestell Bovee, a famous New York writer, once asserted that “False friends are like our shadow, keeping close to us while we walk in the sunshine, but leaving us the instant we cross into the shade.” Exactly a week ago, President Goodluck Jonathan told the world that his friends had deserted him. He made it known that he was not fazed by their action, adding that he expected more friends and associates to abandon him because he lost the March 28 presidential election to the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. The President spoke at a special thanksgiving organised in his honour at the Cathedral Church of Advent, Life Camp in Abuja. He must not have been oblivious of the popular saying that ‘failure is an orphan.’ Indeed, even in politics, success comes with making more friends. President Jonathan is seen as someone who has so much confidence in his aides, friends and associates. As a perceived gentleman, building trust in someone does not take a long time for him. But this quality, unfortunately as analysed in several quarters, contributed to his losing the just held election. As more and more revelations continue to pour in on why the Peoples Democratic Party performed poorly in the elections, both at the national and state levels, the picture is also becoming clearer that a lot of intrigues, mud-slinging, betrayals and lack of unity worked against the party and Jonathan as a candidate. In the build-up to the elections, one thing which is difficult to explain is whether the President saw all these antics from his close associates coming. Some of them even allegedly worked for the opposition, according to observers. Today, they have begun to keep some distance when he has yet to leave office. Unfortunately, they did not know that the election had been lost and won long ago, since the successful merger between the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party and a section of the All progressives Grand Alliance. There has never been a time in the history of the country’s

democracy, especially from 1999, that the nation has witnessed such a unison of political interests at the national level. Had the PDP and its leaders, including Jonathan himself, seen the danger and threat in the merger, they might have frustrated the process in the first place. Today, Jonathan, who presents himself as a true democrat and conceded defeat early enough to the candidate of the APC, now president-elect, appears the main loser with power eluding him untimely. Just as he has lost power, he is fast losing friends and in fact, believes that after May 29, when he must have transmitted the instrument of power to Buhari, he could be a solo man with little or no political influence. Hear him out during the thanksgiving service, “But I used to say worse statements will come. If you take certain decisions, you should know that those close to you will even abandon you at some point. And I tell them that more of my so-called friends will disappear.” The President compared his growing unpopularity based on his ‘decisions’ to that of the last apartheid ruler of South Africa, F.W de Klerk. Jonathan told the congregation that “When F.W. De clerk took the decision to abolish minority rule in South Africa, even his wife divorced him. I hope my wife will not divorce me. But that is the only decision that has made South Africa to still remain a global player by this time. If we still had that minority rule there, by this time, nobody will be talking about South Africa.” Most noticeable presently in Aso Rock is the shrinking number of influential personalities who often frolic with both the Commanderin-Chief and his immediate family at the residence and at the church. They would even join in the morning prayers at the Villa Chapel only to rub shoulders with power brokers for personal gains. These friends and associates who ordinarily hitherto made Aso Rock a beehive of activities are gradually cutting off. First on the list of these allies is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Forte Oil, Mr. Femi Otedola. The oil magnate, apart from being a personal friend of Jonathan, is also alleged to be the ‘President’s business friend.’ He doubles as a member of the President’s

He (Clark) debunked rumours that he collapsed when he heard about the outcome of the presidential election Economic Management Team (EMT). The businessman, no doubt, was a frequent visitor to the Presidential Villa, aside attending official functions. He stood by Jonathan and was one of his major financiers during the 2011 presidential election. Until the March 28 presidential election, Otedola was always seen at both the Oval Office and the official residence. Early this year, Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience, were special guests at the burial of Otedola’s father, Late Pa Michael Otedola, a former Lagos State governor in Épe. Otedola has not been sighted in the Presidential Villa since his bosom friend lost the election. Shortly after the announcement of Buhari as winner of the 2015 presidential election, Otedola was among close allies of the President who visited the President-elect to align with the regime change. Mind politicians and businessmen? It is always about interest which they say is the only permanent thing. Among the outgoing President’s friends is Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, a banker, entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist. He is also a member of the EMT. AigImoukhuede’s closeness to the President earned him an appointment in 2012 when he served as chairman of the Presidential Committee on the Verification of Fuel Subsi-

dy. There are reports that his committee saved the country billions of dollars in fraudulent fuel subsidy payments. Although this seasoned banker was not as frequent at the seat of power as Otedola, he remains a close ally of the President and mingled with those that matter in the Jonathan administration. Aig-Imoukhuede has often times donated to several government support projects like the presidential flood intervention initiative and electioneering agenda of his friend, Jonathan. He has not been visible in the villa since the election. Tony Elumelu is another member of the EMT and a friend of the President. He is an astute banker, businessman and an economist by training. Elumelu’s rosy relationship with the President is clear to all. He had on different occasions expressed supported for him publicly without apologies. Not only has he attended most functions where the President was present, his sympathy for the Peoples Democratic Party sits deeply. Elumelu has been one of the financial pillars and strong supporters of Jonathan since the 2011 presidential election. His quick move to pitch tent with Buhari shortly after the March 28 presidential election is viewed by some observers as a step to court the incoming president. He has not

been as visible as before in the Presidential Villa since the elections. Arthur Eze is another friend of the President. Interestingly, he is among the few associates of President Jonathan who have continued to visit despite his defeat at the polls. Eze, a businessman with interest in oil and gas, is a close ally of the President. He is one of the major financiers of the PDP and by extension, the President. The oil magnate has also made several donations in support of the President’s interests. This includes the N1.8 billion donation in 2013 for a church building and a youth centre in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, the President’s hometown. The President had cause to even visit Arthur’s country home in Anambra State. Hear Eze when he paid a visit to Buhari after the elections: “Things will change in this country. It is God that gives power, and God has given it to Buhari. “He is coming to change our economy, especially the oil sector, as you can see, most of the oil companies which left Nigeria are now coming back,” Eze said. The businessman also expressed total confidence in Buhari, based on his experience to take the right decisions, especially as it concerns the oil Industry. All these actions possible explains the President’s fear and concern that he may be abandoned by his friends. There are several other personalities in this group who Nigerians and the President would have to also watch out for. They include the Chairman of Zenith

Bank and a member of the EMT, Mr. Jim Ovia; Africa’s wealthiest man and EMT member, Aliko Dangote; and Chief Bola Shagaya, who is more of the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan’s friend. Though he has constantly expressed deep support for Jonathan, former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, was sighted at the wedding of Edo State Governor, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, in Benin on Friday. He even took a photograph with Oshiomhole; his wife, Lara Forte; Buhari; Vice President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Senator Bukola Saraki, sparking speculations that he may have switched sides. Before the election, such was an anathema. Also on the list of Jonathan’s former friends are his godfather, Chief Edwin Clark; and top former Niger Delta militants such as Government Ekpemukpolo and Ebikabowei Victor-Ben aka Boyloaf; as well as Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba. Shortly after the election, Clark dismissed reports that he was depressed about the result of the election. Speaking with journalists on April 24 in Abuja, on his way to London, he debunked rumours that he collapsed when he heard about the outcome of the presidential election. “I am here today to tell you that I am not dead. Or am I dead? In every election, there would be winners and losers. The same thing happened during the last presidential election. I am alive. Today, I won’t talk about what happened before, durCONTINUED ON PAGE 7

L-R: Prof. Wole Soyinka; Lagos State Governor-elect, Akinwunmi Ambode; Folake Soyinka and Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, during the public presentation of a book ‘Dynamics of Change: The Amaechi Years,’ in Lagos on Thursday.

SUNDAY

The Sunday Magazine SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Double Tragedy: Couple dies

two months after wedding

Married on March 6, perished on May 6 & 8 Groom’s dad follows on May 9 Cephas Iorhemen Makurdi

o the people of Tse-Tyo Jime Asoh from Mbabo-or in Tombo Mbalagh district of Buruku local government area of Benue State, the the tragic death of their newly wedded children, Timothy Tyo Tersen and his wife, Erdoo Timothy will remain indelible in their hearts. The young couple, after the solemnisation of their holy matrimony on March 6 this year, perished together on May 6 in a ghastly motor accident, two months after. The road mishap occurred along Mkar-Ameladu Road in Gboko Local Government of the state. Sunday Telegraph gathered that the husband, identified as Timothy Tyo Tersen, a native of Tombo in Buruku Local Government Area, died on the spot while his wife, Erdoo, was confirmed dead two days later at Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi. In what could best be described as a double tragedy for their families, the groom’s father, Mr. Tyo Godwin, also died three days after his son on May 9 in another road accident. The groom’s father died on his way back from the burial of his in-law. The burial poster of the dead couple as released to Sunday Telegraph was

quite pathetic as it had a bold inscription: ‘Wedded Forever.’ It brought tears to the eyes of those who saw it. The couple and the groom’s father are to be buried on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at Tse-Tyo Jime Asoh, Mbabo-or in Tombo Mbalagh in Buruku LGA.

Tyo Godwin, groom’s dad

Why Chuka Umunna quit UK Labour Party race

n the end there turned out to be no bombshell revelation; no kiss-and-tell lover waiting in the wings or damaging newspaper story about to break. In reality, Chuka Umunna’s seemingly inexplicable decision to withdraw from the Labour leadership race yesterday was more prosaic but oddly more profound: he realised – far too late – that it wasn’t the way he wanted to live his life. To understand the root causes of the announcement, you have to go back five years to when the 32-year-old was first elected to the House of Commons. Even in the febrile world of Westminster, no new Parliamentary fresher has ever quite attracted so much immediate media attention or political hype as the handsome, black MP for Streatham. At first this began as adulation: Umunna was lazily dubbed a future ‘British Obama’ by the press, and he was talked of as a future Labour leader and Prime Minister even before Ed Miliband had been elected. But, as with most shooting stars of British public life, after the adulation came the take down. Shortly after his sudden rise to shadow Business Secretary, he began attracting highprofile negative attention from the right-

Chuka Umunna

wing press not inflicted on some of his more anonymous Labour colleagues. The Daily Mail dug up details of a so-called “exclusive online club” for “jetrosexuals” that Umunna had joined in his twenties, where he asked for tips on the best nightspots to avoid the “trash and C-list wannabes” of London’s West End. Another newspaper claimed that a Wikipedia entry comparing him to President Obama had been created using a computer at the law firm where Umunna once worked. But most personally difficult was the attention focused on his family. The Sun revealed

details of what it described as “Chuk’s £1m Ibiza pad”, owned by his mother and paid for using an off-shore trust. Friends of Umunna say that this kind of unwanted attention on those close to him, while not unexpected, had a significant effect. His father had died in a road accident when he was 13, leaving his mother to bring up Chuka and his sister alone and the three are still extremely close. For his immediate family, the press intrusion was an unwelcome shock. “I think it would be fair to say that he has been having second thoughts about his political ambitions and what he really wants for a while,” said one person who knows him. “I’m not sure it was always that way but I think he has become more and more aware of the downsides of living your life in glare of public scrutiny. There was a strong feeling among those closest to him that the attacks were vindictive.” Umunna hinted at this in an interview in January when he said it was hard to “get the balance right” between what people “want to know about you the person and your family background” and what is acceptable to those you’re close to. “You want to protect them. You’re the public figure; they’re

not the public figure,” he said. And what is abundantly clear is that this hit home very hard in the past few days. After Umunna was pictured with his girlfriend Alice Sullivan for the first time on Sunday Ms Sullivan’s 102-year-old grandmother was contacted by the media. Not only that, but on Thursday Umunna’s mother was pursued down the street by a Sunday newspaper journalist asking questions about her son’s private life. The incident is understood to have contributed to her son’s decision this morning to quit the leadership. “It really hit home to him that his life would change forever if he was elected leader and it would have a profound effect on his family as well,” said an aide. Of course, there may be aspects to Umunna’s personal life that he feared could come back to haunt him. And should he have been elected the tabloids would certainly have been looking for them. But, then again, maybe he’s telling the truth. In the most intriguing line of his “resignation” statement, he said he had “always wondered” whether it was “all too soon” for him to launch a leadership bid, adding: “I fear it was”. “Too soon” is not the same thing as never. Source: Independent of London

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

The Sunday Magazine

Unresolved mystery of 1966 coup:

Soldiers didn’t allow us open our father’s coffin – Tafawa Balewa’s son Can you tell us things we don’t know about Nigeria’s first and only Prime minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa? Alhamdulillah. First of all, he was a native of Bauchi State and was born on December 12, 1912. He is survived by four wives and 19 children. Only one of his wives, Hajiya A’isha Jummai, is alive. Also, four of his children are dead, leaving 15 alive. Sir Abubakar was not born in Tafawa Balewa as was said by some people but he lived here in Bauchi, his hometown, located at Run Road. He found himself in Tafawa Balewa at four years of age when he accompanied his father on his official duties. The Prime Minister then had the knowledge of Arabic Studies and helped his father, Malam Yakubu, in interpretations.

Eldest son of Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister, Baba Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, speaks on his father’s legacy, the 1966 coup that ousted his government, the controversy over how he died and other issues in this interview with ALHASSAN YUSUF (of the Northern Region, Ahmadu Bello) was killed. When his corpse was brought to Bauchi by heavily armed soldiers, they insisted that the casket should not be opened. They said it should be buried like that. The only person who could confirm the instructions was the late Madakin Bauchi, Malam Abubakar. Did he have an idea that the coup was coming? From close sources, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was not aware when they planned the coup. Even if he was, by the simplicity and modesty of his life, late Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was not the kind of person that would run away from death. This was because he was a selfless and incorruptible leader who had nothing apart from his house and a farm. Even the house was bought through a loan.

What of the family background? Sir Abubakar was born in December 1912 to the family of Malam Yakubu and Malama A’isha. His father’s foresight and position as a scribe in the office of the district head of Lere accorded Abubakar the privilege to receive western education that was most unpopular at that time. His childhood? The young Abubakar’s education started with Qur’anic school in the Ajiya of Bauchi’s compound in Tafawa Balewa at the age of four. He grew up precocious and inquisitive. His mother, who was strict, exerted a strong influence over him. Due to his father’s foresight, he was enrolled in 1919 into Tafawa Balewa Elementary School, and began western education at the age of seven. Education He attended Bauchi Provincial School from 1928 to 1933. At the college, he demonstrated uncommon wisdom and composure, among other traits, which drew the attention of staff and students alike. As a house prefect, he was firm and strict. Sir Abubakar came to enjoy cricket and fishing. He read voraciously and earned high grades through diligent study. After leaving Katsina Government College, he returned to his alma mater, Bauchi Middle School, where he taught History, Geography and English. He later specialised in English Language and was exceptionally gifted in the craft and phonetics of the language. His political career He was among the few educated northerners of his day. Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa inadvertently became involved in the region’s call for self-government and an end to British rule. With colleagues such as Malam Aminu Kano and Malam Sa’adu Zungur at Bauchi Middle School, Abubakar was able to form what was called the Bauchi Discussion Circle (BDC) in 1944. This initiative was one of the several similar political platforms established in the North at the time then while he was still serving as the headmaster. He was appointed into the Bauchi Emirate Council and he acquired firsthand experience in the art of governance and local government as well. His involvement in politics deepened with the rising tide of nationalist activities. In 1947, he was elected to represent Bauchi Province in the Northern House of Assembly where he gained acclaim for his famous speech calling on the colonial government to effect radical changes in the native authority system. In 1952, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa served as a member of the House of Assembly and House of Representatives. During the same year, he moved to Lagos as federal

There is a report that anytime he was in his hometown, he loved to sit on a mat to receive his visitors. A foreign journalist said he once interviewed him while he was sitting on a mat. Why did he like that? Yes, it’s true that he usually sat on a mat. He liked to show his simplicity by sitting either on a mat or the bare floor to receive his visitors or to have a chat with his sons, Muktar and Saddeeq. On one of such occasion, Tafawa Balewa was relaxing in his farm while the two sons were chewing sugar cane. Why? The main reason Tafawa Balewa preferred sitting on a mat or bare floor was to show his simplicity.

Tafawa Balewa

Minister of Works but changed portfolio to become Minister of Transport following a cabinet reshuffle. Legacies His fascinating credentials speak volumes of him. He was an innovative teacher, an outstanding statesman, a nationalist and highly accomplished individual. Late Sir Abubakar was a member of Her Majesty’s Privy Council (PC), Officer of the British Empire (OBE), Commander of the British Empire (CBE) and Knight of the British Empire (KBE). He was also an honorary Doctor of Law London. He worked conscientiously to enhance the country’s system of transportation, namely roads, rail and inland waterways. Under him, the Nigerian Railway Corporation and Nigerian Ports Authority were established. A coastal agency and inland waterways department were created under the ministry. Other contributions were the ports at Apapa and Port Harcourt that were developed and extended to improve and expand their activities. Also, he travelled extensively overseas to see first-hand the highly developed water systems and returned with ideas for development. In 1961, he revisited the Tennessee Valley Authority, USA, which led to the Kainji Dam project and so on. What about his hobbies?

The simplicity of life of the late Prime Minister is supposed to be a lesson to our present political of f ice -holders but regrettably, most of our political officers of today don’t see public off ice as a public trust. This is why we are having a lot of problems

One of them was farming, because he loved it very much. He also loved fishing. He was a person of moderate temperament and had an exceptional capacity for public relations. There is a lingering controversy about how he died in the 1966 coup. Some said he was shot while others said he was not. What really happened? The controversy was that he was killed by a group of soldiers in a coup like the Premier

Has Nigeria accorded him adequate honour? Yes. Nigeria has accorded him much honour. Late Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was first immortalised after a monument was erected along Run Road by the Federal Government in 1980. It is a national monument in which the life, struggles and personal belongings of the late statesman are displayed in the library of the monument. The Federal Government also named the federal university in Bauchi as Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi (ATBU). The Bauchi State Government also named its stadium as Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium and its airport, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport. What kind of family man was he? What do you recall about him? Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was a man of modesty, simplicity, very incorruptible and he did not have a desire for material or worldly accumulations. The simplicity of life of the late Prime Minister is supposed to be a lesson to our present political officeholders but regrettably, most of our political officers of today don’t see public office as a public trust. This is why we are having a lot of problems. The issue of corruption, which was one of the reasons for the fall of the prime minister’s regime, was even more glaring in the subsequent government we had after Balewa. This has shown that bribery and corruption, which has manifested in the lives of Nigerians from 1966 to date, is still a problem with this country.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 17 MAY, 2015

News

Borno senator-elect dies of liver cancer Chukwu David and Philip Nyam

lNew Reps speaker emerges May 28

fierce critic of President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator Khalifa Zanna of Borno Central, died yesterday morning of liver cancer in Abuja. Zanna, 60, had a prolonged battle with liver cancer, and had been receiving treatment in Germany and the United States, according to Saharareporters. Zanna’s son told SaharaReporters that the late senator passed away yesterday morning on his way to the National Hospital in Abuja. Zanna had in several interviews accused Jonathan of failing to take decisive action against the Boko Haram sect. The deceased, who was elected into the Senate in 2011 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, and was recently re-elected during the 2015 election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Meanwhile, the Senate yesterday expressed shock over his sudden death, describing it as one too many. President of the Senate, David Mark, expressed grief over his death and described him as a gentleman who was very mindful of his legislative assignments as well as the welfare of his constituents and the nation at large. He further noted that late Zannah was a fine parliamentarian who con-

tributed his quota to the success of the Seventh Senate. He said, “Senator Zanna’s death coming a few days after the demise of Senator Uche Chukwumerije is a big blow to the Senate and the nation. This is certainly not the best of times for us. These deaths in quick succession is heart breaking. “We cannot question the will of the Almighty . We can only ask that our Creator give us the fortitude to bear this sad loss and grant the deceased eternal rest,” Mark said. Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, expressed deep sadness over the death of Zannah. Ekweremadu, who was attending the 74th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Accra, Ghana when the news broke, said Zannah’s death was a sad loss not only to the Senate, but also the nation. He said Zannah was a dedicated parliamentarian who made his constituents and the entire nation the centrepiece of his legislative odyssey and would be remembered for his patriotism, forthrightness, experience, and legislative excellence. In a formal statement announcing his death, Chairman Senate, Committee on Media and Publicity, Sena-

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ing and after the election. That will come another day. “I am talking to you now because I am travelling tomorrow and some people will go into the streets and say I was carried into air ambulance. President Jonathan that contested election had congratulated the winner and the whole world acclaimed him for conceding defeat. Jonathan was the one who contested election, I didn’t. So, why should I die?” Boyloaf, who benefitted immensely from the amnesty programme, was highly critical of the President in a recent interview

tor Enyinnaya Abaribe said the Senate was shocked over Zanna’s death in the twilight of the Seventh Senate. According to Abaribe, the deceased parliamentarian would be remembered for his love for his state, particularly the people of Borno Central Senatorial District who had all this while reposed implicit confidence in his quality representations. “The Senate will surely miss his painstaking approach to committee work and care for legislative details in terms of bills and motions. The Senate condoles with the family, Borno Central Senatorial District and the government and people of Borno State,” Abaribe said. Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Senator Bukola Saraki, expressed sadness at the passage of his colleague. In a tribute to his memory, Saraki described Senator Zannah, as an exemplary leader who will be dearly missed by his fellow legislators. “Senator Ahmed Zannah will be remembered as a passionate legislator who fought to protect the people of Bama who sadly have had to deal with insurgents in the last few years and for always putting the comfort of his people before his; as evident in him vacating his home for internally displaced people

Betrayal of Jonathan with Premium Times. He said, “To me, as a matter of fact Jonathan disappointed us. That is my own opinion. He disappointed us. To me, he disappointed us. He might be good to some people. There is nothing to tell if you get to my own state. We didn’t benefit. People like us did not benefit from his government. His government focused on one side. The Bayelsans did not benefit. It is only the Arugbos – that is Ondo State and Delta State – that benefited from his government. So, someone like me

will not welcome him. I will not welcome him at all. The struggle continues.” Also, some governors that were constant visitors to the villa both for official and social purposes have reduced their visits. Gabriel Suswam (Benue); Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo); Isa Yuguda (Bauchi) and Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State, observers noted, are becoming scarce at the villa. PDP National Chairman, Adamu Mu’azu, has stayed clear of the villa, following attempts by some party leaders to oust him.

No cause for alarm over Marte – Military

he Nigerian military yesterday allayed fears over reports that Marte in Borno State had been recaptured by Boko Haram. A statement by PR Nigeria on behalf of the Nigerian military said it was deserted town before the recent reported incursion of terrorists in the area as

efforts are being taken to address any untoward development. In its Twitter handle, the Defence Headquarters stated that “there has not been any static deployment of troops in Marte for quite sometimes in line with the need to emphasise more aggressive patrol of many threatened isolated com-

munities while the assault on the forests and mountain hideouts of terrorists is ongoing. “Only occasional patrols and surveillance have been undertaken towards the area as the bulk of troops are engaged in the operation to clear the terrorists from all identified enclaves in the forest.”

in his home town. His contributions on the floor of the Senate and wealth of experience to guide the institution would be greatly missed,” Saraki said. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives may elect a new speaker on May 28 to replace Aminu Tambuwal, who is expected to be sworn in on May 29, 2015 as the governor of Sokoto State The essence of electing a new speaker, who will pilot the affairs of the House till June 4, is to enable the federal lawmakers to sit for the constitutional 181 days. The Seventh National Assembly will end on June 4 while a separate speaker for the Eighth National Assembly will be elected after its inauguration on June 8. Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Rules and Business , Hon. Albert Sam-Tsokwa, told Sunday Telegraph yesterday that after Tambuwal’s inauguration on May 29 as governor of Sokoto state, he will not be eligible to continue as speaker. He said the valedictory session planned for May 28 is to accord Tambuwal the opportunity to bid farewell

to his colleagues. He explained that the House would continue to sit after the valedictory session till June 4, when it shall be officially proclaimed closed. Sam-Tsokwa explained that Tambuwal and Hon. Haruna Manu, the deputy governor elect of Taraba State, will take oath of office on May 29 and assume executive powers at the state level so the valedictory session is to formally send them forth. “The tenure of the seventh House ends on June 4 and the business of the House will continue until June 4. But we have members who are governor and deputy governor-elect; so the valedictory session is to accommodate the speaker and afford him the last opportunity with his colleagues. “The moment they are sworn in, they can only come into the chambers as observers or perhaps to resign their membership of the House,” he stated. The rules and business committee chairman, however, explained that the decision as to how to replace Tambuwal would be taken by the House. He said the House would decide whether to elect Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha as

the new speaker or choose a speaker pro-tempore. “There will be no vacuum after the exit of Speaker Tambuwal. The decision lies with the House on how to fill the vacancy. If the House decides to elect a new speaker, it will do so. But when that day comes, we will know what to do,” he stated. According to Order II Rule 9 of the standing orders of the House of Representatives (8th edition), “whenever a vacancy has occurred in the office of speaker or deputy speaker during a session, the clerk shall report same to the House at its next sitting, and the House shall either forthwith, or at its next sitting, proceed to the election of a new speaker in the manner herein before provided.” On the insinuations that the House may run foul of the constitution by June 4, for failing to meet the 181 sitting days stipulated by the constitution, SamTsokwa explained that by the time the House winds up, it would have sat for more than the181 days prescribed by the constitution. The House has as at last Thursday sat for 174 days in the current session leaving an outstanding of seven days with two weeks to go.

WANTED URGENTLY Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited, publishers of New Telegraph, Saturday Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph, requires the services of: Copy Editors: Must be graduates of English Language with a minimum of Bachelor's Degree (Second Class Upper). Applicants must have calm personality; be good writers with eyes for details and must be able to infuse life into 'dead' copies. He/she must have at least eight years post-qualification experience either in the media or the publishing industry. Legal Officer: with LLB (minimum of Second Class Lower). Should possess at least 4 years post-call experience. Must be able to provide assistance in preparing, drafting and vetting all agreements as well as rendering accurate legal opinion. Eligible applicants should submit their applications within two weeks to: Head, Administration Department, 1A, Ajimobi Street, off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos or newjobstoday2015@gmail.com

News Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he All Progressives Congress has advised the governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’Azu Babangida Aliyu and his Jigawa State counterpart, Mallam Sule Lamido, to wake up to the reality that electioneering campaign is over and it is time for nation building. Aliyu and Lamido had recently stated that they would keep the Presidentelect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari on his toes. However, APC in a press release issued in Lagos on Saturday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed described the duo’s statements against the APC and the

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Accept defeat, APC tells Aliyu, Lamido President-elect as uncouth, ill-intentioned and in bad faith. Mohammed said, ‘’Nigerians have switched from pre-election to post-election mode, making the unsolicited advice and the rehash of the vitriolic electioneering campaign rhetoric from the two governors totally out of tune with reality. ‘’Our commitment to Nigeria is sacrosanct, irrespec-

Slot launches handset trade-in programme

lot Systems Limited, Nigeria’s leading phone retailer has launched a “tradein” programme to enable customers trade-in their old phones for brand new ones. Confirming this in Lagos, the Managing Director of SLOT, Mr. Nnamdi Ezeigbo, said that this program is in collaboration with Matrix Certified Pre-Owned Nige-

tive of the state of the economy, hence we do not need any cheeky advice from Governors and Lamido. We are not making any excuses, but we will let Nigerians and indeed the world know how much the economy has been wrecked and the role of anyone in bringing the economy to its knees’’. APC also stated that the two governors’ historical revisionism has been beclouded by the trauma they suffered - and are still suffering - from the shellack-

ing they received during the elections, hence they have forgotten even the role they played in seeking to scuttle the change that Nigerians so much desired and for which they voted. ‘’Governors Aliyu and Lamido are so bitter and traumatised that they have forgotten it was their party, the PDP, that divided Nigeria along its ethnic, religious and regional fault lines. They have forgotten that it was their party that cleaned out the commonwealth in

its desperation to win at all cost, at a stage shunning the Naira for US dollars and helping to crash the value of the local currency. “Governors Aliyu and Lamido are also imagining where they would have been now, had they not betrayed the G7 of which they were original members, seeing the group up to the starting line but cunningly refusing to take off when the race was flagged off. They made a wrong choice and lost out, and they must

live with the consequences of their choice, instead of continuing to snipe at some imaginary enemies “The chance to be part of a historic opportunity to rebuild Nigeria was offered to the two Governors on a platter of gold, but they chose to put their personal interests above the national interest. The fate they have now suffered is a direct consequence of their short-sightedness and selfishness, and they must accept the full blame for that’’, the party said.

ria Limited, a leading name in pre-owned devices. Ezeigbo said “It is simple to be part of this programme. A customer can just walk into any SLOT stores, hand in his old phone, pay the price difference and walk out with a brand new phone for any of these brands : Blackberry, I phone, Samsung and Nokia.”

NAFDAC arrests three, seals shops in Anambra

he National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control yesterday arrested three traders of Surgical Devices Section of Bridge-Head Market, Onitsha for selling fake and unregistered medical devices. The NAFDAC team from the Investigation and Enforcement directorate of the agency in Lagos also sealed four shops where the fake and unregistered medical devices, which were mostly used for test for blood pressure, temperature and insulin levels, were sold. The leader of the team, Mr. Babatunde Omoyeni, a Chief Regulatory Officer said that the agency was out to mop-up all the imported fake and unregistered medical devices that give wrong diagnosis which leads to therapeutic failure. Omoyeni said that the agency was moved by intelligence tip-off on the devices, which shows that the imported fake and unregistered medical devices lead to wrong diagnosis and sudden death of patients depending on their diagnostic results. ``In medicine, we believe so much that if the diagnosis is wrong; the whole lot of medical treatment would be a total failure. As a way of guarding against this therapeutic failure of a

thing; we are out to flush out these medical devices from circulation to protect the companies that are doing genuine products and distributing from the unscrupulous people, traders in the market that are going to other countries to bring in fake medical devices to pollute the system. ``Because somebody that has a problem, a diabetic patient for example, is getting a blood glucose level that is within the normal range, will think it is okay. But at the end of the day; the person’s internal organs – the hearts, the kidney would have all degenerated to the point that the whole thing will collapse and before you know it, the person had died,’’ he said.

L-R: Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun; National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; former National Chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande and National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, during the wedding ceremony of the son of Dele Alake, Olatunbosun and his wife, Omoleye in Lagos...yesterday

Suicide bomber kills seven, injures 40 Hassan Jirgi Damaturu

even people were killed yesterday and another 40 injured when a suspected female suicide bomber detonated a bomb at busy market at the Damaturu Motor Park in Damaturu, Yobe State capital. The young lady aged about 27 was making her

way into the park before the bomb wired on her went off. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blast, but it bore the hallmark of Islamist militant group Boko Haram which has lost most of territories it held before because of intensified battle against them by the Nigerian forces. The incident occurred at about 8:10am along Potis-

kum Road in Yobe State, where most passengers traveling to various villages across the state board buses and cabs. A businessman, Audu Maikudi, who survived the bomb attack, said that he counted seven corpses. He said that the target of the bomber was the Motor Park but her bomb exploded before she could make it to the busy park.

Former Egyptian president, Morsi, sentenced to death A n Egyptian court has sentenced the ousted President Mohamed Morsi to death for his part in a mass jailbreak in 2011. The verdict, by judge Shaaban el-Shami, was announced on Saturday in a Cairo court where Morsi was also facing charges of espionage. As is customary in passing capital punishment, the death sentence on Morsi and more than 100 others will be referred to the country’s top Mus-

lim theologian, or mufti, for his non-binding opinion. Morsi, Egypt’s first freely elected president, was ousted by the military in July 2013 after days of mass street protests by Egyptians demanding that he be removed because of his divisive policies. His overthrow triggered a government crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood movement, to which he belongs, in which hun-

dreds of people have died and thousands have been imprisoned. In May 2014, Morsi’s successor, the former military chief Abdel Fatah al-Sisi, secured a landslide victory in Egypt’s presidential elections. Before Saturday’s sentencing, Morsi was already serving a 20-year term on charges linked to the killing of protesters outside a Cairo presidential palace in December 2012. Defen-

dants in both trials were brought into the caged dock on Saturday ahead of the verdict. “We are free revolutionaries, we will continue the march,” they chanted. Morsi was not brought in, but his co-defendant and Brotherhood leader, Mahmud Badie, was present, wearing the red uniform of those convicted to death after a previous sentence.

Maikudi said, “I was inside the filling station when I had the sound of the blast at around 8:10am, so I tried to run and minutes late we discovered the blast was near the Motor Park. A member of the National Union Road Transport Workers, who identified himself as Adamu Abdulrahaman, told our correspondent that the dead were evacuated to the Specialist General Hospital Damaturu, while those injured were referred to the Federal Medical Centre Nguru, Gombe State for medical attention. “We were at the general hospital to assist the hospital management and count the dead bodies. In fact, I saw eight dead bodies and 40 injured” he said. A source from the Yobe state Police command confirmed that, policemen and some soldiers were still busy conveying victims from the scene and mopping up the area.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

News

APC condemns Jonathan’s last minute appointments Ibraheem Musa Kaduna

he All Progressives Congress has said that it is inappropriate for the outgoing administration of President Goodluck Jonathan to embark on a series of appointments when it has just a few weeks in office. Speaking to the Hausa Service of BBC which was monitored by our correspondent on Saturday, Alhaji Umar Dikko Radda, the National Welfare Secretary of APC, said that such last minute appointments are ill motivated. The APC chieftain further said that the incoming administration will evaluate these appointments to determine whether due process was followed in mak-

ing them and whether the appointees are qualified to hold those positions. According to him, there was no need to have made the appointments except to enhance the curriculum vitae of some of the appointees. Dikko pointed out that any reasonable person should have rejected such appointment. He advised General Mohammadu Buhari to look into the privatised companies in the power sector, to see whether or not the sale will benefit the common man adding that Buhari has experts that will look into the issue. The APC National Officer also denied the speculations that the President-elect Muhammadu Buhari had rejected the ministerial list of the APC state governors.

Fashanu slams estranged wife, denies online report Biyi Adegoroye

nited Nations Ambassador for UNICEF and former Wimbledon soccer star, John Fashanu, has disowned the audio record currently trending online about his sour relationship with his wife, Abigail, stating that it was part of a grand plan to sway attention from the divorce suit he filed against her. Fashanu, in a statement in Abuja, said the voice was a carefully crafted imitation of his by friends of his estranged wife, Abigail, to swing media reports against him, instead of looking at the valid grounds for divorce in the suit currently before an Abuja court. “Since the artfully contrived recording appeared online, a lot of people have been calling me to confirm that and what I can tell you it is that it is not true. I have not been in the country for some weeks now. I just returned only to hear this. “You see, I see that as another nice one from Abigail. I don’t have any journalist on my pay roll. I have a lot of respect for journalists and I could not have derided them because I am even one of them. I anchored a programme on CNN for nine years and for another four years, I was an analyst on the BBC. So I could not have said that about the media. “I strongly believe that one of these comedians who do a good job mimicking other peoples voices have been contracted to do that. I want to say that people should be careful about what they read in some media and media men should also evaluate any information given to them and think before they

believe and publish in the media Fashanu said besides the divorce suit which is coming up in Abuja on June 1, there is also a case of trespassing, assault and burglary in his house against Abigail, who led a 10-man gang into his house, broke in, “smashed the door and made away with certificates of occupancy of about nine of my houses as well as N1million. The case is being investigated at Lugbe Police Station, along Airport Road in Abuja. He stated that “there is even a problem with the marriage. My lawyers have told me that it was a sham. Two years ago, when we did this, it was not contracted in a church or court of law. We just called some people together somewhere and that was it. “She called one pastor and never allowed me to invite my children, neither did she invite hers. At the end of everything, she collected the sum of $20,000 from me ostensibly for the pastor, but when I called him, the pastor said he never got the money. That is why I said that even the marriage was another avenue to take money from me. Her target is my property,” he saidHe described his wife as lesbian and a lair, who is after his property, an issue the wife denied, stating that he was even tired of the marriage. Abigail also said she never burgled his house, but that she merely responded to a distress call when somebody attempted to sell the house “I could not have attacked him, Not at all. I am a lawyer. I wouldn’t do something that is against the law,” she said.

L-R: Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; son of the deceased/Chief of Staff to the state Governor, Dr Kola Ademujimi and his siblings, at the funeral service for late Mrs. Comfort Durosomo Ademujimi, at Methodist Church Odode – Idanre…yesterday

Pope preaches peaceful family on World Communication Day

Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

s today is set aside as World Communication Day, Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis has expressed the importance of family as the most basic form of communication. In his message for the 49th World Communication Day with the theme “Growing and Uniting the Family through Loving Communication” the Catholic pontiff noted that the modern media, which are an essential part of life for young people, could be both a help and a hindrance to communication in and between families. The Pope observed that despite some limitations and sins, the family is a school of forgiveness, adding that forgiveness is

itself a process of communication. Though he admitted that a perfect family does not exist, Pope Francis noted that “in a world where people often curse, use foul language, speak badly of others, sow discord and poison human environment by gossip, the family can teach to understand communication as a blessing. “In situations apparently dominated by hatred and violence, where families are separated by stone walls or the no less impenetrable walls of prejudice and resentment, where there seem to be good reasons for saying ‘enough is enough’, it is only by blessing rather than cursing, by visiting rather than repelling, and by accepting rather than fighting, that we can break the spiral of

evil, show that goodness is always possible, and educate our children to fellowship.” He noted that notwithstanding the differences of gender and age between them, family members accept one another because there is a bond between them. According to him, the wider the range of these relationships and the greater the differences of age, the richer will be the living environment. “It is this bond which is at the root of language, which in turn strengthens the bond. We do not create our language; we can use it because we have received it. It is in the family that we learn to speak our ‘mother tongue’, the language of those who have gone before us. In the family we realise that others have preceded us, they made it

possible for us to exist and in our turn to generate life and to do something good and beautiful,” the pontiff added. The modern media, he noted, can be a hindrance if they become a way to avoid listening to others, to evade physical contact, to fill up every moment of silence and rest. “The media can help communication when they enable people to share their stories, to stay in contact with distant friends, to thank others or to seek their forgiveness, and to open the door to new encounters. “By growing daily in our awareness of the vital importance of encountering others, these ‘new possibilities’, we will employ technology wisely, rather than letting ourselves be dominated by it.”

Aviation stakeholders task minister, agencies Tony Anichebe Uyo

viation stakeholders meeting in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, have identified key areas militating against effective air services operations. They lamented that the sector lacked essential facilities and well trained personnel to ensure the industry complied with the international air safety standards. The officials drawn from various regulatory agencies including the Accident Investigation Bureau, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Aeronautical Information Services, Nigerian College of Aviation

Technology, and other associations within the sector, identified safety-trust as the major plank for which the sector derives its strength. According to them, the industry has been striving to meet the regulatory standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation in the area of automation of Aeronautical Information Services since 1998, lamenting that problem of funding has been hampering its implementation. Addressing the forum, which ended yesterday in Uyo, the President of the Aeronautical Information Services Association of Nigeria, Mr. Shittu

Babatunde, recalled that “ICAO has since 1998 sensitised all contracting states on the need for the services of AIS to be automated”. He added, “ever since then in Nigeria, we have been hearing and reading on the pages of newspapers of AIS automation and it is yet to be completed.” While lamenting that the project might not be completed even in 2016, Shittu, who identified funding as the major challenge stalling the completion of the project, called on the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Osita Chidoka, and other agencies to ensure air safety is guaranteed by fixing the information management

system in the industry. The Commissioner\ Chief Executive Officer in-charge of Accident Investigation Bureau, Dr. Felix Abali, who chaired the conference, underscored the importance of safety in the industry and stressed the need for qualified professionals to man key sectors in the industry for efficient management of the air transport system in Nigeria. “It is axiomatic to state that safety is the primary concern of the aviation community worldwide, be it military, civil, scheduled or non-scheduled flights operations, charter services or commercial aviation, using any form of aircraft.”

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

OPINION President Jonathan’s bitter parting gift

TS on Sunday tunsul2@gmail.com 08050498544 (sms only)

n just under two weeks, history will be made in Nigeria. For the first time in the largest black democracy, a sitting president will hand over to his replacement as the nation’s number one citizen but from a different party. On May 29, President Goodluck Jonathan will do the honours by handing over to General Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress. Of course Jonathan is of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). But while there will be a lot of merriment (especially from APC members), and understandable anguish (expectedly from PDP members), at the venue of the hand over ceremony in Abuja; millions of Nigerian will be largely indifferent due to the parting gift the out-going president is bequeathing – fuel scarcity. Not since the days of the ‘maximum ruler’, late General Sanni Abacha have Nigerians had it so bad trying to lay their hands on a product that the Almighty freely gave the nation in abundance, so much so that Nigeria is the largest oil producer on the African continent and 14th largest producer in the world. A classical case of the proverbial saying: ‘water, water everywhere but none to drink!’ However, in this case, it is ‘crude oil every where (the nation is still exporting about two million barrels a day) but no petrol at the pumps!’ As a consequence, from Lagos to Abuja;

Port Harcourt to Makurdi; Kano to Ilorin, there are endless queues of motorists at various petrol stations battling to get the product. This is the ‘gift’ the outgoing president is leaving the nation as he departs on May 29th unless he is able to conjure some magic and make the lengthening queues disappear before the hand-over. And the only way he can achieve this ‘magic’ is by flooding the country with enough petroleum products to meet the demands of frustrated motorists and keg owners swarming all over fuel stations that have the scarce stock like a swarm of locusts on a farm land. Unfortunately, what has become the tradition from those that govern us, the true reason for the nationwide problem has yet to be disclosed to the masses that troop out every four years to vote them into power. Just before the scarcity set in a few months ago, the marketers importing the product warned that they would stop importation because government owed them billions of naira. Rather than calling both the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and major marketers to a meeting to resolve the issue, government, most ill-advisedly, decided, to stonewall until the marketers articulated their threat by stopping importation. It was only after this threat was carried out that government decided to pay N154.2 billion to the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria by the FG in order to halt the fuel scarcity in the country. However, this was a far cry from the N354.4 billion which the FG owes independent and major marketers as well as the depot owners. Consequently the later decided to sus-

pend action until they to were paid, which forced government’s hand to make payment to IPMAN and depot owners. However, despite the payment, rather than prove ameliorating, the queues have gotten longer, even though officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) insisted last week that they had millions of litres of fuel in their storage which would last for one month supply and so motorists should not ‘panic buy!’ But it was only during the week that the real reason why the commodity was so scarce surfaced - the zero provision for fuel subsidy in the recently passed 2015 budget. The simple meaning of this is that government will no longer pay subsidy on any consignment of petrol or kerosene imported into the country – put otherwise, the product had been deregulated! Nevertheless, there was a big catch – there has not been any official government statement on this possible change in policy towards fuel subsidy, other than the refutal by the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala that provision for subsidy was made in the current budget. With this ambivalence over the subsidy policy, marketers and the banks that finance them have adopted a wait-and-see approach, further exacerbating the situation. The million naira question then is - did the president not realise that this will be the result of his failure to articulate a proper policy surrounding the thorny issue of subsidy? We all know that his January 2012 New Year (gift) to the nation plunged the country into crisis when he unilaterally okayed the removal of subsidy.

And after about two weeks of strike action which paralysed the country, the president backed down from his initial plan to raise the pump price to N140 a litre to N97 - thus saving some face. It is theredfore amazing that almost the same scenario is playing itself out again unless, as some cynics are suggesting, it is a deliberate attempt to give the in-coming government a serious headache. But even the National Assembly which passed the budget is not blameless because after all, they saw that there was no allocation for subsidy in the 2015 Budget and still went ahead to pass it! If they had the interest of the people they are supposed to be representing in Abuja in their hearts, then they would have spotted the potential problem (zero allocation for subsidy) and querried the executive –in line with their oversight functions- to either include it or explain why it was left out. True that with dwindling revenue from crude oil prices, government needs to source for funds from elsewhere. Of course, fuel subsidy is a good source of such funds. Still, government should have opened up, rather than flip-flopping on the issue. More importantly, having already lost the election, Jonathan had no repercussions to fear from removing subsidy, especially on his electoral fortunes and would, thus, have been in the best position to take such a ‘painful decision’. As things stand, unless he is willing to perform ‘magic’ and flood the country with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) before May 29, President Jonathan’s parting gift to Nigerians will be ‘sorrow, tears and blood’ at the various filling stations across the land. Hmmm, what a way to bow out!

Seventh Assembly: The National Tobacco Bill as public health legacy Muhammed Yinusa

national newspaper (Leadership) had in a special report published on May 3, 2015 drew public attention to some critical bills that may not make it to become laws as a result of the imminent winding down of the Seventh National Assembly. The media report titled “Fate of Critical Bills Hang As 7th National Assembly Ends” listed the National Tobacco Control Bill (NTCB), State of the Nation Address Bill, Creation of States Bill, Petroleum Industry Bill and Violence Against Persons Prohibition Bill as those that should be completed before this Assembly closes because of their potential impact in national development. Of the five bills, the Senate on May 4 passed the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Bill raising hope that the remaining four bills may soon get necessary attention. But, for the purpose of this piece, I will concentrate on the National Tobacco Control Bill; one bill that has been a recurring decimal at the National Assembly since 2007. The National Tobacco Control Bill as its citation suggests, seeks to regulate the manufacturing, advertising distribution and consumption of tobacco products in Nigeria. Its major highlights include prohibition of smoking in public places, ban on all forms of direct and indirect advertising, prohibition of sales of cigarette in single sticks and mass awareness about the dangers of smoking.

It is worth mentioning that the National Tobacco Bill is one that has enjoyed tremendous support from the Nigerian public. Survey after survey have put public support for the bill at above 80 per cent. The most recent by NOI Polls shows that over 90 per cent of Nigerians support tobacco control measures. At the various public hearings organized by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, interest groups including public health professionals have spoken in support of the bill. Nonetheless, one continues to wonder why such public interest bill had to suffer neglect and delays. Globally, the tobacco industry has covertly worked to undermine any effort by governments to enact laws aimed at reducing smoking. The tobacco industry hold very dear an objectionable mantra which promotes the supremacy of profit above human lives and well- being. The industry’s seen and unseen hands in setting back the wheel of progress as regard the tobacco bill is real and palpable. Our parliamentarians need to stand strong for public health and not those promoting addiction of our children. As works on the bill intensifies, several articles have emerged attacking some sections of the bill particularly that which mandates government to protect public health from the tobacco industry. That section of the bill which is a direct adaptation of the World Health Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) recognizes the negative impact of decades of negative influence

by the industry and recommended that nations ensure that for their laws to be effective they should keep the industry off the table. Nigeria is a party to the FCTC and signatory to the FCTC Article 5 .3 which states clearly that “In setting and implementing their public health policies with respect to tobacco control, Parties shall act to protect these policies from commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry in accordance with national law”. For any tobacco control effort to succeed, such effort must incorporate very thick insulators to protect it from assaults of the tobacco industry. The tobacco industry which is the purveyor of diseases and deaths, is rabidly opposed to laws that will lead to reduction of their profits. The primary business of the tobacco industry is to sell more and more cigarettes sticks. The industry has nothing positive to contribute to tobacco control efforts. While they openly mouth their so called “willingness to accept regulation”, they sponsor front groups to undermine the process.

For any tobacco control effort to succeed, such effort must incorporate very thick insulators to protect it from assaults of the tobacco industry

Another issue that has also been hotly debated is the issue around Designated Smoking Areas (DSAs). Again it suffices to refer to the FCTC benchmark. Article 8 of the FCTC recommends that Parties to the treaty adopt effective legislative measures “providing for protection from exposure to tobacco smoke in indoor workplaces, public transport, indoor public places and, as appropriate , other public places.” The implementation Guidelines for the Article was more explicit as it states that “ approaches other than 100 per cent smokefree laws environments, including ventilation, air filtration and the use of designated smoking areas… have repeatedly shown to be ineffective and there is conclusive evidence, scientific and otherwise , that engineering approaches do not protect against exposure to tobacco smoke.” Globally experts are in agreement that smoke-free laws if they are 100 per cent will reduce exposure to secondhand smoke and help smokers quit. More and more countries have gone 100 per cent smoke-free and Nigeria cannot afford to be different. As we await key decisions of the National Assembly on this very crucial bill, there is no better time for the message for a strong and effective tobacco control bill. This assembly, by passing a bill that will ultimately reduce deaths and diseases from smoking would have bequeathed an indelible public health legacy. •Muhammed Yinusa a Public Health Researcher writes from Kano

Sunday Mail MAY 17, 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. Incompetent governors

Dear Editor, Most of our governors are incompetent and incapable of discharging their functions. They lack ideas and interest in governance. They neither have the willpower nor genuine concern for the people. My passionate appeal to all the new elected governors is that they should try and deliver dividends of democracy to their people port risk being kicked out of office in the next elections. Ojonugwa Joseph Ado-Ekiti.

On South Africa and HIV Dear Editor, South African President Jacob Zuma signed a bill that seems to be the greatest step in the history of the fight against HIV. From now on every person who gets tested and is found to be HIV-positive would receive counselling and medication as well as a mark in the form of a tattoo near their genital according to the bill signed by the president. The mark he said, is to protect those who can’t say no to sex. The choice to be HIV-positive is now in their hands or genitals for that matter. Will this encourage those who had been living with the virus to go to public hospitals again? Will they allow their status to be tattoed on their genitals? Will marking all HIV-positive people reduce its prevalence rate? Mugada Smith South Africa

Buhari’s unusual style

Dear Editor, How I wish all our political leaders can learn from the example of President-elect Muhammadu Buhari. In what looks like an unusual step to demonstrate his leadership style, the President-elect has instructed police and military security personnel attached to him to respect traffic ules during his movements. For leaders to inspire respect, they must obey the laws of the country and lead by example in order not to send a wrong message to Nigerians. I therefore urge all Nigerians be law abiding and support the incoming government. Joseph Adegbe Abuja.

Al-Maura’s promise

Dear Editor, Nasarawa State Governor,Tanko Al-Maura, while addressing 2015 NYSC Batch ‘A’ corps members promised automatic employment to any newly deployed corps member who marries an indigene of the state.. He said that inter-marriage by corps members would not only foster unity but also promote peaceful co-existence among the people of the state and other states of the federation. I wish every governor would emulate this move. I only hope it does not expose the ladies to any problems. This will go a long way to providing husbands and wives to the bachelors and spinsters in the state. Chinenye Maduka Nasarawa

Buhari and gospel of change

Dear Editor, President-elect Muhammadu Buhari is now saying the change Nigerians are expecting cannot happen overnight. Why did he not tell us that during his campaigns? Buhari also said the incoming administration will, in the short term, lay emphasis on agriculture and mining to deal with the challenge of youth unemployment. I think he is insinuating that he will need a second term, even before he assumes office. He needs to be reminded that four years won’t be forever. If he fails us, we will push him out in the next elections. Grace Solomon Benue State

Market traders, cooking amidst filt at Ijora Market, Lagos

USA’s false wealth

Dear Editor, “Let Bill Gates first end poverty in God’s own country United States of America, before taking his show on the road. He can use his hometown Seattle, Washington, as case study. There are 45 million people in America adjudged poor and two million children go hungry every day. North Texas food banks keep growing because more people are needing to be fed and this is while we hold our hands up to the world as the richest country and God’s gift to humanity. True or false but such posturing is self-evident. Charity ought to start from home, shouldn’t it? All the pretensions to solve global problems while one’s backyard is begging and needing a helping hand is pure hypocrisy. I guess Bill Gates is wanting to get a Nobel Prize for just saying and pretending to be doing something. Win on efforts but not outcomes. It is not the place of the rich that poverty goes away, as they like to show to prove their fake altruism. If not, how come poverty has grown exponentially while the world has produced more rich and wealthy people? Ejike Okpa Dallas, Texas USA

Amnesty programme Dear Editor Different viewpoints have been canvassed on whether the amnesty programme should be retained after President Goodluck Jonathan’s exit on May 29, 2015. I would like President-elect Muhammadu Buhari to consult widely on this issue so that he does not take the wrong decision. The time has come to appraise the impact of the amnesty programme to enable Nigerians to know whether it has helped the people of the Niger Delta or has merely served as a conduit for selfish individuals. If funds have been diverted from the programme to private accounts, such should be probed and recovered. Also, the impression that the programme was used to the benefit of a particular ethnic group should be looked into. The Niger Delta remains a key part of our great nation and should not be treated shabbily. Johnson Moses Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

PHOTO: Tony EGUAYE

Unpaid wages

Dear Editor, I write to commend Sunday Telegraph for its commendable cover story on unpaid wages, which was published on May 3, 2015. It amounts to a travesty of justice for governors to be owing civil servants salaries for months. Their standard excuse of poor allocations does not hold water when you consider the wanton profligacy and looting of their state’s resources. These governors engage in wasteful overseas trips and spare no expense when it comes to ensuring personal comfort. Nigerian workers should resist this ugly practice of owing them salaries. Silas Okoro Enugu

Vulgar radio content

Dear Editor, I wish to draw the attention of the National Broadcasting Commission to the widespread use of vulgar content on various radio and TV stations in Nigeria. You find On Air Personalities (OAPs) deploying vulgar content and even playing music meant for adults only at times when children are wide awake and listening to radio. It will do us no good if we allow our children and impressionable youths to be exposed to such adult content. We shouldn’t encourage such vulgarity to take root in our society because we will only have ourselves to blame. let’s try to promote educational and Godly content on broadcast stations so that we can build a nation of strong leaders and followers. A word is enough for the wise! Alvan Mezie Ibafo, Ogun State

Pornographic films

Dear Editor, I read your paper(Sunday Telegraph) regularly. It is a nice work that you are doing there. I enjoy buying the paper because there is always so much to read about in Sunday Telegraph. WIth reference to a topic treated in your paper some weeks ago as to whether Christian couples should watch pornographic films or not, I read different views on the matter. My question now is to those who did not deem it a big deal or better still, those that supported the argument that they should watch such for whatever reasons they gave, will they allow their wards to act pornographic films? Johnson Idoko Abuja

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Moments

L-R: National President, National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Chief Nkechi Mba; first Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan and former National President of the association, Hajia Ramatu Usman, at the inauguration of NCWS and farewell for Dame in Abuja …on Thursday

Lay President, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Methodist Church Nigeria, Sir Olatunde Okesola (left), receiving an award from the Host Bishop, Rt. Revd Isaac Ayobami Olawuyi, at the Annual Synod of the church at Folawiyo Bankole Memorial Methodist Church, Surulere, Lagos…recently

Flag Officer, Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Babtunde Egbedina (right), exchanging a signed MOU on the provision of Chinese Language Teacher between Confucius Institute and Nigeria Navy with the Director, China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr Yan Xiangdong in Abuja …on Thursday

L-R: Father of the groom, Mr. Osamede Johnbull Omere; groom, Mr. Amen Osahon Omere; bride, Shade Elizabeth Legunsen and mother of the groom, Mrs. Elizabeth Omere, during the wedding of Shade and Amen in Lagos…on Saturday

L-R: Secretary to Kwara State Government, Alhaji Isiaka Sola Gold; National President, Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Alhaji Abdulhamid Adi; Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and National Secretary, IEDPU, Dr. Hamza Abdul Raheem, during a congratulatory visit to the governor in Ilorin…on Thursday

President, Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa (fourth left); President National, Industrial Court of Nigeria, Justice, Babatunde Adejumo (middle) and others, at the inauguration and inaugural sitting of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in Bauchi …on Friday

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Assist-2-Sell Properties Limited, Chukwunonso Ume-Ezeoke; Public Diplomacy Officer, United States Consulate General, Lagos, Rhonda Watson and Chief Executive Officer, Bestman Games Limited, Nimi Akinkugbe, during a financial independence and capacity building for women in Lagos …on Thursday

L-R: National Retail Artiste, House of Tara, Rhema Akabuogu; L’Original judge, Kelechi Amadi Obi; Designer and L’Original judge, Kunbi Oyelese; Senior Brand Manager, Fayrouz, Nnenna Ifebigh-Hemeson and Designer, Mai Atafo, at the Fayrouz L’Original 2 auditions ceremony in Ibadan …on Friday

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Three killed as Fulani herdsmen attack Benue communities

Cephas Iorhemen Makurdi

t least three people were on Friday killed and many others displaced in a renewed attack by Fulani herdsmen on the people of Sengev district of Tyoshin in Gwer-West Local Government Area of

Benue State. Some of the fleeing displaced people who sustained various degrees of injuries in the process are receiving treatment in private hospitals in Naka, headquarters of the Local Government Area. The displaced persons included women and children.

An eyewitness told Sunday Telegraph that three communities including Tse-Agbulu, Tse-Atakpa and Tse-Abichi were attacked by the herdsmen who stormed the area and began sporadic shootings. Many people were attacked with machetes and dispossessed of their money and handsets.

The source named those killed as Iorhen Agbulu, Mrs. Anakula Gbesa and Mr. Agboughul Uoor, while Godwin Ahuna was said to have sustained serious machete cuts. Sunday Telegraph gathered that already, the Tyohin Development Association led by its president, Dr. Sylvester Ugbegili, has con-

demned the unprovoked attack and grazing of cattle on farm lands in the area which he said, has caused great damage to crops. Dr. Ugbegili solicited the immediate intervention of the Federal Government to put an end to the dastardly killings and invasion of the people farms and homes by the herdsmen. “The Tyoshin people are bonafide citizens of this country and must not be treated as aliens. The Fulani

people should be instructed to stop grazing their cattle on the Tyoshin land. It is entirely for farming activity’, Ugbegili warned. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Austin Ezeani, confirmed the heinous attack, saying only one person was killed, adding that dozens of armed mobile policemen were deployed in the area and normalcy has also returned to the area.

Ortom: No sacred cow in anti corruption war Cephas Iorhwmen Makurdi

Regulatory and Enforcement Officer, National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control , Mr Babatunde Omoyeni, sealing-off a Surgical Devices Section of Bridge-Head Market, Onitsha in Anambra State

Drivers, artisans warn APC lawmakers on violence Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

rtisans, commercial drivers and operators of ‘Okada’ at the weekend in Ado-Ekiti vowed to match force with force if the All Progressives Congress members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly make any attempt to enter the Assembly Complex in disregard of the ongoing litigations on the crisis rocking the Assembly. The various groups, whose members converged on Fajuyi Park, Secretariat Road and in front of the road leading to the Government House among others, said they were acting on information that the lawmakers were driving down to the state from Osogbo, Osun State and were in a convoy which included some security men. It was later learnt that the convoy was heading for Benin, Edo State. This came on the heels of a warning handed down a day earlier by drivers unions in the state such as the Road Transport Employers As-

sociation, National Union of Road Transport Worker, and the Pick Up and Lorry Drivers Association whose chairmen, Comrade Samuel Agbede, Comrade Clement Adekola and Hon. Atowoju Oluwatosin, urged the lawmakers to be mindful of the fact that Ekiti people were watching them. “We have voted and elected Peter Ayodele Fayose as our governor and we wish to assure whichever security agents they are enlisting to come and destabilise Ekiti State that we are ready for them. Their sponsors should also know that this is 2015, not 2006, we are

wiser now. “We, the commercial drivers see the APC lawmakers as recalcitrant. Rejecting peace efforts by Ekiti elders, traditional rulers and other is to say the least, insulting.” “As at today, there is a court order that all parties in the impeachment saga should maintain status quo and the suit will come up again on May 21. The Inspector General of Police, who is also a party to the pending case, had already been served the court order and other processes and as a lawyer himself, we believe the IGP should know the implication of a court

order. “If the National Assembly could obey court orders, how much more a State House of Assembly. “The other time that the APC lawmakers invaded Ekiti, they killed one of our members, Modupe Olaya, and nothing happened. This time, we will not allow such to happen. “Our advice is that the APC lawmakers should respect the decision of Ekiti people and stop acting like a congregation of spoilers, who won’t mind pulling Ekiti State down just because of their selfish interests,” they stated.

enue State Governorelect, Dr. Samuel Ortom, on Saturday; said that his administration would not spare any government official found to be corrupt in his quest to fight corruption in the state. Speaking during interactive sessions with religious groups who visited him at his Makurdi residence, he said his earlier resolve never to steal government funds if elected governor of the state still subsists. The religious leaders included the pastors, elders, and women leaders of the NKST Central, Wadata; Priest and Parishioners of St. Francis Quasi Parish, Akpen and the management of Bishop Murray Medical Center, all in Makurdi, as well as leaders of The Redeemed Evangelical Church Mission from Gboko. Ortom said that he was grateful to God who he said lifted him from humble beginnings to his present status, adding that he was content with what he had and no longer needed to acquire more material thing hence his vow not to embezzle government money. He said he never had, and did not need a foreign account and promised to lead by example by shunning illegal acquisition of wealth.

The former Minister of State, Industry, Trade, and Investment reiterated his resolve to have zero tolerance for corruption in his administration, adding that he had already read the riot act to his family never to accept questionable gifts on his behalf. He promised to partner with the Church to give a new orientation on moral rectitude to the people and to deliver quality health care and education. Dr. Ortom attributed his victory at the polls to the fervent prayers of believers. stressing that he shunned all advice to consult with fetishes powers believing that power belonged to the Almighty God alone who he said ruled in the affairs of men and solicited more prayers for the success of his administration. He expressed optimism that the same God who ensured his victory was capable of lifting the state from its current lowest ebb to lofty heights so that the testimony of His hand on the state would reach all corners of the earth. Earlier, leaders of the various delegations, Rev. Dr. Paul Tyoga, Rev Fr Francis Nzekwu, Sister Monica Umeh, and Evangelist Peter Dzawua, had encouraged Ortom to uphold his Christian testimony, abide by God’s Word in the Bible and be courageous in his actions.

Otti urges tribunal to upturn Ikpeazu’s victory

Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

he factional candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in the 2015 governorship election in Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has taken his vow to recover what he described as stolen mandate to the

election petition tribunal. In the petition filed late Friday, Otti, through his counsel, Kenneth Ahia, prayed the tribunal to quash the election of the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, and declare him the winner of the election. According to Ahia, the

legal team is lead by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Akin Olujimi. Joined are Ikpeazu and the Independent National Electoral Commission in the petition. Otti is also asking the tribunal to cancel the result of three local governments of Obingwa, Osisioma and Isiala Ngwa North for elec-

tion malpractice and noncompliance with the Electoral Act. “We are at the Tribunal to file our petition against the election of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu and to ask the Tribunal to declare Alex Otti as Governor of Abia State,” Ahia said, adding “we also asked for the nullification

of the result of some local government areas for election malpractice and non-compliance with the electoral Act.” So far, Otti’s petition is the only one against the election of the Governorelect, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, pending before the tribunal.

SUNDAY

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Body Soul SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

My style is not extremely conventional -Prof. Ogunsola

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

rt a e h y m from t h g i a r t S

roperty’. As before no be p anent interam t ge ‘I g, n m yi er live by the sa politics, but p into st ferred to, no permanent friends in ady ‘hunting’ for a way u m ou ‘Y , ge re e sa al ar es e e m ar er y la th ts p lo har ’s dis what . I wondered those political a BBM contact e whole thing he day I read die trying’, I was alarmed that if our youths ests, uhari’s administration. athan took thunderstanding n Jo t I B ed en d ri e or si e or th re w m ed. was notice rofound py that P ture was doom turning into. I Well, I’m hapity. His stance showed a p works. the world was along that line, then, the fu measure success, n ia im ic an it e pol ou r at th e with equ were thinking become the yardstick to d of an averagre w el l se rv ic e in h is h onpa, Abuja, in m e th ow ad h h fa ed’ ith him. I ofA t th e th an ks gi vi n g an d dvent, Life Camp, Gwarin If ‘being noticdey o. friends to A d to reason w e ie a tr th al d of ah an h W d more of his his refusal rc ct , u te ta h n ec C then p co l ex ra id e ed h sa h e at at r h th ey brings Cresident Jonathan noted thg to him, he had to pay fo I chatted wit I realised. P in oor man. Mon e, p rd e av e co h th av ac ’t h e , n is ’t ce ld ri gn on p ou sh doesn’t reco ral process. leave him -a se an d yo u d of love is now “Society today gn it io n . If yo u h av e se nn d s w on ’t be ge n u in e. to monkey with the electo e of his fans but dollops him as a man co ie on regarded ave been p ow er an d re y re sp ec ts yo u . E v en fr u don’t know that, then I might not h me for him. I had always atter. I had seen him as m e of al . m on ey, n ob od am na. Owo ni koko. If yo t n id io ou oozing ns on nat defeat, despit ng man sa You sef reasonon a long thing,” the youh him. My common sense who took wrong decisioto act. But after accepting io d , I n ow se e was slow ee ri n g p er you’re sittingached from reasoning wit a leader who m u ch d u ri n g th e el ec ti one spent in power did not t bs en d m . u si gh th re u P y ro n d M sp en d in g so many years h ick wall all th ple he wante st Sunday whe stance hit a br n about that issue until la s had deserted him after him in a new light. Theess in him. When the peo s, he was wise te te d e humblen t, Muham gh their vo at his frien I had forgot take away th ed him throu president-elec d of respect. athan said th Goodluck Jonpresidential election to the iends wouldn’t abandon to continue to lead reject e while he still had a shrethat success has fr av he lost in the Of course, the so called ent because he would be enough to accept to le understanding of the fact e him jokingly T h ey that mad it was his Mr. Presid madu Buhari. av in g offi ce . I believe that hile failure is an orphan like the former South p oo r af te r le ld do that because w im h s y father divorce and when obviously wou, Jo n at h an w ou ld mane that his wife would not’s wife, who left her husb 29 op rk h le ay K e a. M t’ . H W de Afric af te r m er p re si d en ican leader, F. rule in South ell in their be co m e a ‘f orto be in a position to Afrchose to abolish minorityhis wife, Dame Patience, wmy young words of would cease o w ou ld p ar ta ke of he wish him well, I also wish aside -in the sly knocked on that h ep I st w e ey e in th m os er as ch et ou rs d ke. Those who ho had previ ture endeavo the national caim after May 29, will fu M friend - to let Buhari w gift of life. B h to stand by g fully well that they B r thrice, to be noticed. and we thank God for the doo sed Sunday do so, knowinoticed anymore. ’s another bles It n be ot re n t ay en m s th e p re si d Juliet T h os e fr ie n d

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COVER

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GLAM DUDES Capable of making a statement both dressed up and down, the burgundy suit is versatile and stylish

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FASHION Culottes are the perfect trend to wear this season!

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Juliet Bumah (Editor) Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent) Wole Adepoju

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Always do a strand test before you colour your hair

- Shan George

-Prof. Folashade Ogunsola

BEAUTY

Hubby didn’t father my son!

I’ll love again

Contents 17.05.2015 I would like to see UNILAG College of Medicine continue to grow. I would like us to be recognised for great researches and for Nigeria to feel our impact...

Bed, Work & Life

Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent)

MY PASSION I think crying for love is crazy. Everyone cries when they are in love

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

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Associates

BED, WORK & LIFE Alice is anything but relieved. Cool, no one is saying her son is a bastard but it narrows down James’ suspicion... How long will it be before they narrow it down to Dave?

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Helen Paul

Eyitayo Aloh

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Body&Soul

Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua popularly known as Seyi Shay is a Nigerianbased singer-songwriter, recording artiste, performer and producer. She has written and produced a number of songs and in 2008, she became the lead singer for the now defunct pop girl group, From Above. In this interview with ABIOLA ALABA PETERS, the artiste opens up on her love life, music, biggest celebrity crush and love for God If your man proposes via social media Instagram, Twitter or Facebook - will you accept? I think I would prefer something a bit more intimate and personal. Social media is a great tool, but can also be very impersonal. A brief insight into your parental background. My mother is half Fulani and half Tapa (Kogi State). My mother worked as a nurse and my father is both a businessman and pastor. What is music to Seyi Shay? Music to me is the rhythm and expression of life, art and emotion through sound. Music is my life. Considering your music background and your networks, why didn’t you stay back and pursue your music career in the West? I believed that I could have more of an effect in my home country and influence my people positively through what I’ve acquired in the years of my experience internationally. If a particular video for any of your songs requires you to strip naked, would you? My focus in my videos is truly my music and not necessarily my body. Nudity is not what I am into right now. I just want the world to appreciate my music and feel my lyrics. So far, do you think female singers are having a better share of the cake in the Nigerian music industry? I think we are getting there but not quite yet. There is still a lot of work to do in the industry in reference to women. I am hopeful that we will get there. It’s a girls’ world these days. Names of music acts that inspired you locally and internationally. Locally: Onyeka Onwenu, Fela, 2face, D’banj, WizKid, Fally Pupa, too many across Africa to name all. Internationally: Beyoncé, Cold Play, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Kings of Leon, Chris Brown, Bob Marley, Lauren Hill etc. What are your best African dishes (home/ locally made food)? Amala and Ewedu with Gbegiri. This is exclusive to Sunday Telegraph. What are the things your fans have yet to

I’m not into nudity - Pop artiste, Seyi Shay know about you? I don’t feel you can truly know a person in its entirety. I want my fans to grow with me and learn about me. That said, there is nothing I want to let out of the bag right now. I am Seyi Shay, a musician and a girl’s girl! What is fashion to you? My fashion is an expression of my emotions. It’s also what makes us glamorous, relevant or not. Do you believe in love or ever fallen in love? Who doesn’t? I do fall in love; everyone does. What’s your love life like right now? Any relationship? I have a special friend! What are the craziest things you have ever done for love? I think crying for love is crazy. Everyone cries when they are in love. I think everyone has done a bit of crazy for love! What you won’t do for music? I won’t give up God, no matter how imperfect I am. What’s new for your fans, album, songs, videos and any other projects? My album will be released in the third quarter of this year. It will feature local and international producers and artistes. It’s going to go global! Your worst and best moments? My worst moment was when I lost my mother. Best moment was when I sang in front of thousands of fans and they all sang along to my songs with me. Moments like these continue to be my best. Who is your celebrity crush? Boris Kodjoe. What three things can you not do without in your closet? Those would be my sneakers, a little black dress and my Jeans. Do you see Yemi Alade and the likes of them as threats? No I don’t. I am

proud of Yemi Alade and all my female colleagues in the industry. Super proud! Special words to your fans? Stay true to yourself and when people say you can’t, smile and do it.

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

How we fought Ebola - UNILAG medical Prof. Folashade Ogunsola can simply be described as an astute woman who dared to fit into shoes previously reserved for men. She became the first female provost of the University of Lagos College of Medicine, a coveted position which only men occupied since inception. In this interview with VANESSA OKWARA, she recounts how it happened, her encounter with Ebola and life as a grandmother You are the first female provost of the University of Lagos College of Medicine and the 13th since inception. How did you manage to break this jinx? It’s an elective position which means you have to campaign. Truly, it was a challenge. I would not have described myself as political, in fact I was not. And I still don’t think I am. I think I’m more of a technocrat. I became provost in 2013, two years to that time, somebody first noted it and I told them to go and sit down because I had no time for such things. But a number of people kept coming and I had to ask myself why I didn’t want to be a provost. First of all, it wasn’t because I couldn’t do the work; I realised it was because of the politics, campaigning and being in the public glare. I wondered if I could play the politics. Although I’ve found myself in leadership positions throughout my life, I’ve never c a m paigned for any because I feel it’s a b i t

boastful to say I’m good at this job. And I think it’s a female problem because we were taught to be nice, to be demure and not to put ourselves forward. At one point, I realised that my problems were more based on my gender and that was when I decided to go for it. But I did one thing; I prayed and told God that I would work hard as a provost, if it was not meant for me, I would not make it. And I also decided some other thing. I’m not going to try to be a man but I’m going to be as I am and I’m going to be issues-focused during my campaign. I did a lot of homework. I went to find out how I could accomplish issues that we had problems with; to understand what the issue behind the problem was so that I wouldn’t make promises based on assumptions. Once I started, it was easy and because I believed in the things I was saying, it was not difficult, I wasn’t saying what I was not planning to do. For the two years you have acted as the provost, what are the agenda you have set and what have you been able to achieve so far? Should I say I have achieved probably about 70% of the things I set out to do.? One of the things that I came in to do was what the colleges of medicine was set up for. We were set up to train medical personnel; to generate research findings that will impact the health of the people. We also promote the medical sciences and cutting edge research and what we also call translational research that will affect policy which may lead to innovation. In other words, gadgets and changes of how things are done. It was clear that as a college, we needed to invest in research and re-orientate everybody to be more research oriented rather than teaching alone. So we’ve done quite a lot of things. We’ve set up a proper research office. We got a grant from the National Institute of Health to do that. We’ve trained our lecturers in new methods of teaching that will better impact students; we’ve trained lecturers on how to write research grants and I think we can say we have touched about 70% of our lecturers. We’ve got our lecturers to sign in to a site called CITI, which is worldwide. It’s an ethics site where you have to do the exams and then you are registered so that when you say you’re CITI registered, people will know that you understand ethics. One of the things we set out to do was to improve the learning environment so we reached out to the alumni and other donors. We’ve got some alumni to upgrade our lecture theatres; a donor who is rebuilding and giving us a four story physiotherapy building. Shell Petroleum gave us a grant for an audio visual centre to improve e-learning so that we can put things on the website that our students can interact and our lecturers can do lectures that are part electronic and part contact. That is the future and the way it’s done in some foreign colleges of medicine. We’ve improved on the cleanliness of the school, but it is not totally as we would like. But we’ve improved on that, especially in the students’ hostel. We are congested because we have too many students and the hostels were the same we always had. We moved from two programmes to nine programmes, so you can imagine the number of students and the hostels have not grown, so we are working on that now. We’ve also started a programme

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

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school provost, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola called ‘Adopt a room’ for alumni and parents to adopt a room and renovate it. We’ve done four already, and one was donated by one of our alumni. Each room costs about N500,000. So, he gave us N1 million to do two which we’ve done and each room will bear the name of the donor and the plaque will be put up. We have involved the college people in the Diaspora. We are also looking at an alternativee source of energy. This one is in conjunction with LUTH. They have started work and hopefully, before the end of this year, we will have 24-hour power supply here. We have worked on the library too and made subscription for an e-library. We’ve increased the number of our lecturers who can actually attract grants. Universities abroad are rated on the amount of grant money they spend and we have been increasing our research grant money spending. How would you rate Nigeria when it comes to medical research? We are still far from it. As a country, if you really want research to work for you, people need to identify their areas of need so that priority is given to those areas. However, if the country identifies the area of interest then they must put money there. You cannot do great research if there is no light. During my PhD abroad, I would set up an experiment, leave it overnight, come back and still meet it in the morning. If you do that here, everything will be destroyed because of outage. Here, the electricity company did not give us light for 10 days and people’s researches just died. Abroad, people keep samples for 30 years, go back to them and still meet them there in the light of new findings, but here we can’t. Equipment is destroyed because of surges. Even when there is power, the amount of money spent on diesel is a waste of resources. I spend up to N10 million a month on diesel and electricity bills. With so many problems, how exactly do you conduct your research? We still do our research. We pool our equipment together and we run on generators. All these come from grants. We have been getting quite a lot of grants from the U.S, Germany, European Union; a lot of our people are getting grants and I am proud of them. All these grants have helped a great deal to support what government is doing, but until we sort out electricity, I don’t think we will have great research in this country. For most countries giving grants, Nigeria is usually the most expensive. This is because they have to pay for everything including generators. Despite all this, we have unnecessary bureaucracy. The great thing is that these grants come through the university. If they come through the ministry, they will not get to us. There will be too many bottlenecks. So most of the time, we lose these grants to Ghana or East Africa where they will not have to deal with electricity or corruption. For me, I am looking at ways to build up our research capacity and I think we have done quite a bit. If we can achieve that of electricity to be 24 hours before I leave office, I will be very glad. Right now, the contract to remove old cables has been awarded. Most of these cables are over 50 years old and they explode at will with lots of leakag. Also, they can’t power heavy equipment.

Despite public distrust, Nigeria was able to curb Ebola and this college of medicine was in the middle of it all. What exactly happened during the Ebola crisis? First of all, Lagos State was absolutely stellar, so I thank God it came to Lagos State first. One of the things I think really worked was that Lagos State has focused on health and has invested quite a bit in its public health. Things were already in place, so that when it came, they could quickly mobilise. Lagos State did well in investing in health, I am not saying that they are perfect, but for the first time, fear made sure that the Federal and Lagos State governments worked together. The third thing is that the academia became involved. How did we get that lab? It was through a research grant. It wasn’t because government woke up and gave it to us. Although later, we got one for the Avian influenza. We got that lab because there was an academia that was interested in viruses and had collaborations with Germany. I have been involved with Ebola previously. I have been going to Uganda on infection prevention and control; so we mobilised quite quickly here as well. We were one of the first sets to volunteer doctors to go and work in the treatment centres. But we were not the only ones, other people came. What is really important is that there was team work. We also had people from across the country that came in freely to volunteer their services. We had a sound co-ordination hub which came from our years of polio. This ensured that there was continuous flow of information. We cannot also take away the work of our partners such as WHO, UNICEF, CDC who came at the initial stage especially and stayed with us. So it was not about money but excellence and attention to duty and detail and the fact that it could happen to any of us. If I wasn’t provost at that time, I would have volunteered to go to Sierra Leone because they invited me over.

You were never scared of contracting the disease? The thing is that Ebola does not fly at you. There are things you do to make sure you don’t get it. Once it cannot reach your mucus membrane where it can penetrate or a cut in your skin, if you are all covered and you follow the rules, you will not get infected. What was growing up like? I am the first of five children. I grew up in Ibadan. I went to the University of Ibadan Staff School. I went to Mary Hill Convent School which was a Catholic school even though I was not Catholic. Then I went to Queen’s College, Lagos. From there, I went to the University of Ife. We did the seven-year medical programme. We are three girls and two boys. My father was a professor of geography and my mother was a judge. She happens to be the first female judge of Ogun State. She is retired and is in her eighties. I did my house job in two places - UCH and LUTH. I changed because I got married and then moved to Lagos. I did my housemanship here in clinical microbiology. I have a lot of interest in antibiotic resistance and infection prevention control. When did you get married? I got married in 1983, which was after my house job. I have three children and two

grandchildren. How do you balance your work life and family? It’s more like a see-saw. Sometimes, the work is doing well, sometimes, the family is doing well. It is very hard to have 50-50. What is important is that I must say I have a supportive husband; but for this job, he will say he has donated me to the college for these four years. One of the things I have tried to do is that when I get home in the evening, I just interact with everybody. The era of being provost has taken the time for holidays. Before, we could go off but now because of my work, I would not be able to go with him. It’s been difficult but it is not impossible. I think it is when you have unrealistic expectations, but we are human; sometimes we may not do it well at all and mess it up, but learn to forgive yourself. Quality time is not always just about being together in the same room but we communicate always. What is your fashion style? My style is simply classy. I have an artistic side and occasionally, it just flies out in my style. The look I like is elegant rather than flashy. Some people feel that for my age, they will sometimes say that my skirts are too short whereas the skirt is knee length. I think age is a number. I would hate to be inappropriate but I am not extremely conventional. How old are you, if you don’t mind my asking? I am 57 years old. Do you have any beauty routine? My makeup routine is very easy. I use some foundation because as you grow older, your skin needs it but it is not the heavy one. I really don’t have any beauty routine to keep younger. If anything, I have aged being the provost because I don’t sleep as much as I would like to. I am not good with exercise but last week, I started doing some exercising and got a trainer to come to the house. What are your hobbies? I love travelling, reading, watching films. I used to read a lot of fiction but I have started reading more of autobiographies. Reading about other people’s lives, you realise there is no magic to it. It’s all about persistence and belief. Your passion and what you hope to see after you have left office as the provost? I would like to see the college continue to grow. I would like us to be recognised for great researches and for Nigeria to feel our impact in terms of producing the kind of data that will allow us to solve our problems. Then, we would say we have started. There is this Fashola Initiative for Research in Lagos State; 13 out of 45 of those awards came to College of Medicine and UNILAG. So I am proud of what we have become and we are putting the infrastructure in place and the policies to ensure that it continues. I believe that if we can sort our power issues out and continue the investment in human capacity, we will get far.

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

julietbumah@gmail.com

It takes just a moment for truth...

ames’ steps falter as he sees Dave at the corridor. He had walked out of the bar to regain his composure. He was so sure he appeared like an open book back there. He had thought that Dave would still be in the bar and had wanted to have a tete a tete with Alice over the paternity of the baby. It was when he stepped into the hospital corridor that he realised that it couldn’t have been possible. He had totally forgotten that Alice shared the room with Kathryn. And now, Dave appears...like a monitoring spirit. He wonders what he could have said to Alice. It would have been cool if he could say something like, “You ain’t coming back home if you don’t tell me how you got pregnant...” But there’s no way he could say that. Whose home would he be talking about? His home or Alice’s? The house belongs to Alice. He has no share in its ownership because Alice paid for and furnished it. All the documents were in her name. Once again, he regrets his wasteful lifestyle. Alice had pleaded with him that they should buy the house but he refused. It wasn’t as if he couldn’t have added a few millions of Naira then, after all, he had just been paid a handsome amount for a contract he handled then, but something just made him turn a deaf ear to her entreaties. A resolute woman, Alice had paid for the house and told him that she bought it in her own name since he felt acquiring properties was a waste of funds. He had laughed and bought a wonder on wheels and cruised around town. However, he had to dispose of the vehicle during drought time, when he couldn’t afford to maintain it. Today, the house, Alice’s house, has more than quadrupled in worth. He shakes his head as he wills himself back to the present. Threatening Alice with homelessness if she refuses to confess who she had an amorous dealing with is akin to rendering himself homeless. Can a tenant eject a landlord? That’s wishful thinking. He clears his thoughts by shaking his head again. In this situation he finds himself, it’s loss, loss for him! He approaches Dave and Dave walks toward him. In his present state, he fails to realise that Dave has lost his composure. “Are you feeling much better now?” Dave asks him, successfully masking his restlessness. “Sure...sure...nothing wrong with me,” James replies smoothly. He marvels at his outward calm despite his tumultuous inside. “The young mothers are sleeping and it won’t be good if we disturb their rest,” Dave says, deftly turning him back to the entrance. “You’re right Bros,” James says, thankful that somehow, the evil day had been postponed. They walk out together. ***** Kathryn shouts the second time and Alice turns in her bed. “What’s the matter?” she asks groggily. “Sister...,” Kathryn begins but the

words get stuck in her throat. How does she begin to ask such a question? How does she ask a friend who has been closer than a sister, a friend who sheltered and fed her when she could have been sleeping under unveiled sky, exposed to the vagaries of weather and human risks? How does she ask such a sister if she slept with her husband? She swallows hard. “Nothing sis,” she says, coughing lightly to dislodge the phlegm that has gathered in her throat. “Nothing,” she says again, knowing too well that there’s something, in fact, there are many things. Alice has settled back into her bed and is obviously asleep. Kathryn looks around her as anger wells up inside her. Then the tears come down hard on her cheeks and she lets them soak her blouse. After a while, she feels better. A baby cries. She looks and it’s Alice’s son. She lies down, turns her back and pretends to be sleeping. She can hear the rustling of clothes as Alice picks her baby. She must have slept off because she wakes up to happy voices. She turns to see family members -mother in-law et al- in the room. Joy fills her heart. She would have ruined everything if she had said any accusatory word to Alice earlier. Dave and James look the perfect picture of brand new fathers. Grinning from ear to ear, they accept all the congratulatory messages proudly. “My daughters, thank you for bringing double joy into our home. How are you doing? These babies are blessed. They will continue to be sources of blessing to us,” Dave’s mother says. The two new mothers look at her with joy as she prays for them all.

She picks up Kathryn’s baby and examines her the way only grandmothers do. “Haaaa...she’s a bonafide member of our family. The features are there. See the well set chin and the forehead,” she says to no one in particular. She turns to Kathryn, beaming with smiles, she says, “Thank you my daughter. When I saw you the first time, I knew you would do me proud”. Alice freezes as she turns to her baby’s cot. One could feel her excitement as she examines Alice’s baby. Proudly, she declares, “Ahaaaaah! I have always said it. I wish your parents are still alive today James. Look at him! His ears! Did you notice these ears? That’s my husband’s ear! Papa David will be so happy today. You see, your fathers had always argued over who has the stronger gene. We, the wives, used to take sides. James, this is your uncle, David’s father. He won here. Your mother would have offered my husband a cock as an acceptance of defeat. Unmistakable features of your grandfather. David’s father is his carbon copy. It means your grandfather has reincarnated in James’ son. He will be named David. “Oh my God, the two new additions to the family look like twins. They must grow up together as twins. Daddy says they will be named together in the family house. The whole family will witness the occasion.” The old woman goes on and on, dancing and hugging the two mothers excitedly... James’ face is a study in emotion. He’s not sure if he’s grinning or frowning. Is it possible that two different doctors in two different hospitals made wrong diagnoses? He will make a discreet investigation, monitor his wife’s phone

calls once they get home, perhaps...A little seed of hope sprouts in his mind. He looks at the happy and celebratory faces around him and his face breaks into a real smile. Dave had almost died. He only began to come back to life when his mother said Alice’s baby looks like their father and grandfather. Hey! That’s safe enough...for now at least. He peeks at James and notices that he’s smiling. If only he knows that Alice’s baby is to be named after his real father. Hmmmmmmmmm! Alice is anything but relieved. Cool, no one is saying her son is a bastard but it narrows down James’ suspicion. It’s clear to James and Kathryn that she’s tumbled in the hay with a member of the family. How long will it be before they narrow it down to Dave? What will then happen? And he will be called David... Dave! She shivers! Kathryn is so confused. That expands the scope for her. She could have betted her life that her hubby fathered Alice’s son. Not anymore. Has Alice been monkeying with another member of the family? Hmmmmmmmmm....this is serious. They have so many men in the family... all so handsome. Who are the men that Alice is very friendly with in their family? She’ll monitor Alice’s movement... but Alice is closest to Dave! An icy hand clutches at her throat... A nurse comes in. Since both mothers and their babies are in excellent condition, they can go home that evening. ******** Can’t wait to see how these people untie and knot this pesky issue! Can you? Let’s meet here on Sunday to see if they are able to clear the air. •Send your observations to the email above.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Body&Soul

Desire hair colour? Do it yourself

Biwom Iklaki

oday, there are so many things we can do by ourselves. With the right degree of interest in any and most subjects, it is only a matter of logging onto the Internet to read or watch popular videos on the subject and voila! An expert is born...sort of. You may botch up most of these projects, but with repeated attempts, you can become quite the expert. Dyeing your hair is one of such projects. You can do

it. Just follow the steps and you may not have to go to your hairdresser every time you need to touch up on your dye. Step 1 Let your hair go without a wash for at least 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 days before you decide to dye. This is because the natural oils in your hair will act as a barrier against the harshness of the dye. Step 2 Always do a strand test before you colour your

hair. This is particularly important if you are doing a fresh dye or using a new colour. Step 3 Always pay attention to the instructions on the box. Each colour has its unique instructions and may not apply to every other brand. Step 4 If you are dyeing your whole hair, always apply a half inch away from your scalp, then half way through the time stipulat-

ed for the dye to develop, go back and apply to the roots. This is because the heat from your scalp helps the dye process faster in the roots. Step 5 Wash, blow dry and style as desired.

are one of the most stylish trousers out there right now and feature wide-rimmed hems and a tiny waist. Culottes, also known as gaucho pants, are taking the fashion world by storm. Seen on the Spring/Summer 2014 runways, culottes are making a huge comeback this year. This fashion piece is a must-have for this season because it means showing off your ankles for the right dose of sun & fresh air. This trendy

piece is also very forgiving to short girls and helps create the illusion of a teeny tiny waist. They may appear to be tricky pieces that should remain on the runways, but the blowy cropped trousers can be a surprisingly flattering and versatile piece when styled correctly. They come in all patterns and colours, whether in block colour, classic white or an intricate print, you can dress this outfit up or down with heels for a more formal look

or flat shoes for a casual look. Culottes are the perfect trend to wear this season! They are very roomy at the bottom giving you the freedom of a big skirt. If you wear culottes it almost looks like you’re wearing a skirt because it has a flattering hemline and a very versatile shape just like a skirt. Ladylike and laid-back, culotte trousers, when paired with classic elements like a wrapped blouse, tucked in shirts and pumps,

22, 43

Wear to the Office

Culottes can also work for the work place – all you have to do is cover it up for a more professional look. Culottes can add a very chic edge to your look making you the centre of attention as you make your presentation.

look effortlessly chic. They are a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort If you want to highlight your waist, you can choose to rock your culottes with a crop top – showing off a bit of your torso – and when wearing it to work, tuck a shirt in with a jacket for a formal on-trend look. So if you’ve seen this trend around and wondered just how to wear it, we are here to help.

Trend alert: Wide crop culottes

hey are not skirts, shorts or trousers but resemble all three; they’re called Culottes! Culottes are knee-length or calf-length trousers or shorts, usually cut full to resemble a skirt. They are a form of split skirt and are usually free and wide legged. The cropped, wide-legged trousers are the perfect alternative to a midi skirt. They

Vanessa Okwara

Body&Soul

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SundayBusiness SUNDAY

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

News

Electricity: Gas shortages will take years to resolve — Okonjo-Iweala

p.24

Long queues at fuel stations to linger N142bn insufficient to clear subsidy arrears

Brands Public relations: MTN dumps Marketing Mix for DKK p.29

Interview

‘e-payment, best check for fraud’ p.25

Oni

Queue at Total Filling Station along State House, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos….yesterday.

Paul Ogbuokiri

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph online.com

here are no indications that fuel shortages which hit Nigerian cities about two weeks ago will end soonest as international traders and local marketers back away from imports over fears that the cash-strapped new government will end the controversial costly subsidy payments. According to the Executive Secretary of Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, Thomas Olawore, the Federal Government owes the nation’s oil marketers, importers and storage companies more than N200 billion in subsidy payments. The members of the body include Total SA, Oando Plc, Forte Oil Plc and Exxon Mobil Corp.’s local unit, and are owed about 40 per cent of that amount as of the end of March, with more costs incurred since then, Olawore said on Tuesday. A “recent meeting” with Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala “was not conclusive,” Olawore said in an interview in Lagos. “Something must be done” about the outstanding amount following the government’s payment of N154bn last month, he said. Queues which returned at the filling stations about two weeks ago, continue to grow longer by the day as most of them remained closed to customers last week. Our correspondent who went round Lagos on Wednesday reports that gridlock caused by trucks heading to Apapa Ports on took over one

We have written to the president-elect to meet with him with a view to charting a middle ground that will guarantee the investments of the marketers. We feel we need to know the policy thrust of the new administration in the downstream sector side of Oshodi-Apapa Expressway from the Cele end, even as the congestion ground business activities in the area to a halt. This is even as the cost of transportation has jumped up on all routes in Lagos by between 50 per cent and 100 per cent. Paul Nwabuikwu, spokesperson for the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said on phone on Tuesday that a large part of that amount owed the marketers by the Federal Government-- about N159bn-- is made up of forex differentials claimed by the marketers. “As the minister has said, there is the need to verify this huge claim.” Olawore says the impending takeover of government by President-elect Muhammadu Buhari from President Goodluck Jonathan on May 29, is causing

PHOTO:SULEIMAN HUSAINI

anxiety among creditors in the downstream industry that the new government may take longer to remedy the funding shortage, Olawore said. Coming over two weeks after the Federal Government paid the marketers N156bn subsidy arrears, queues at petrol stations in the major cities have elongated and most of the fuel stations remain shut all day without dispensing the products. The ones that sell Premium Motor Spirit do so at N120 to N150 per litre. The shortage in most rural areas outside Lagos is more acute where is selling at about N200 per litre. “We have exhausted our stocks,” said Stanley Yakubu, a fuel attendant at the Forte Filling Station in the Maitama neighbourhood of Abuja. “We thought government and marketers have resolved their issues but supply is very slow in coming.” Traders said new bookings for vital tanker imports of transport fuel into Nigeria have slowed to a trickle, and some cargoes offshore are being redirected to other regions. This is even as over 10 merchant tankers laden with the products were reported to have berthed at the Lagos ports last week and the massive traffic gridlock caused by petrol trucks queuing to take the product from tank farms in Apapa, grounded other businesses in the area last week. Efforts by Jonathan in 2012 to end expensive subsidies, which would have doubled gasoline prices, led to riots in the streets. Analysts say that government missed the best opportunity to remove the subsidy around January and February when the oil prices was at its lowest C ON TI N UE D ON PAGE 24

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business/ News

Electricity: Gas shortages will take years to resolve — Okonjo-Iweala

as shortages at Nigeria’s power plants, about 70 per cent of which are fueled by the commodity, will take years to resolve, according to Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. “We have lots of gas but we don’t have the pipelines” to transport it to electricity plants, Okonjo-Iweala said at a conference in St. Gallen, Switzerland on Friday, according to Bloomberg. “We’ve encouraged private investors to come in. It will take a couple of years before we see progress.” Peak electricity output in the West African nation, the continent’s biggest economy, reaches about 3,800 megawatts, with another 1,500 megawatts unavailable because of gas shortages, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission said in March. South Africa, which has a third of Nigeria’s population of 170 million, has eight times more installed capacity. “Power is a big constraint on Nigeria’s growth,” Okonjo-Iweala said. Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, plans to quadruple the supply of gas in Nigeria by investing as much as $2.5 billion on pipelines running from the oil-rich Niger River delta region to Lagos, the biggest city, he said last month. Carlyle Group LP and Blackstone Group LP, the world’s two biggest private-equity firms, and the International Finance Corp. may invest in the project, Dangote said. In 2013, Nigeria broke up the state electricity monopoly and sold power utilities to companies including Korea Electric Power Corp. and Siemens AG in an effort to boost investment.

Okonjo-Iweala

President Goodluck Jonathan, who lost an election to former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari in March and will step down on May 29, had pledged to improve Nigeria’s power supply Gas shortages at Nigeria’s power plants, about 70 per cent of which are fueled by the commodity, will take years to resolve, according to Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. “We have lots of gas but we don’t have the pipelines” to transport it to electricity plants, Okonjo-Iweala said at a conference in St. Gallen, Switzerland on Friday. “We’ve encouraged private investors to come in. It will take a couple of years before we see progress.” Peak electricity output in the West African nation, the continent’s biggest

We’ve encouraged private investors to come in. It will take a couple of years before we see progress

economy, reaches about 3,800 megawatts, with another 1,500 megawatts unavailable because of gas shortages, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission said in March. South Africa, which has a third of Nigeria’s population of 170 million, has eight times more installed capacity. “Power is a big constraint on Nigeria’s growth,” Okonjo-Iweala said. Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, plans to quadruple the supply of gas in Nigeria by investing as much as $2.5 billion on pipelines running from the oil-rich Niger River delta region to Lagos, the biggest city, he said last month. Carlyle Group LP and Blackstone Group LP, the world’s two biggest private-equity firms, and the International Finance Corp. may invest in the project, Dangote said. In 2013, Nigeria broke up the state electricity monopoly and sold power utilities to companies including Korea Electric Power Corp. and Siemens AG in an effort to boost investment. President Goodluck Jonathan, who lost an election to former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari in March and will step down on May 29, had pledged to improve Nigeria’s power supply.

Long queues at fuel stations to linger CON TINUED FR O M PAGE 23

($40 per barrel), saying government’s stoppage of the subsidy payments at that time would not have attracted an increase in the pump price of PMS. They say as the price of crude starts edging back up after last year’s slump, the most ideal moment may well have passed. “The time to cut was January/February, when oil prices were so low,” said Stanislas Drochon, director of Africa oil and gas with IHS. “That was really a missed opportunity, but it’s not too late.” According to him, petrol prices would rise by roughly 30 per cent if the current capped price of N87 per litre is allowed to move closer to the N115 it would cost without government support. Additionally, as subsidies cover the difference between the capped price and the cost to buy the fuel on the international market, marketers are worried that the incoming administration could end the payments without letting capped prices rise, leaving them to shoulder the potentially sizeable price difference. Payment fears Though Nigeria exports around two million barrels per day of crude, it is almost wholly reliant on imports for the 40 million litres per day of Premium Motor Spirit it consumes, due to inadequate refineries. The effort is expensive, accounting for an average of 2.5 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product from 2006-2012, according to the IMF. The government set aside N914bn ($4.6bn) for it in 2014. Critics say the subsidies are not only inefficient but open to abuse by corrupt operators. Imports that have arrived so far this year total at least N300bn, according to pan-African

Petrol prices would rise by roughly 30 per cent if the current capped price of N87 per litre is allowed to move closer to the N115 it would cost without government support lender Ecobank, a bill that would come due after incoming President Muhammadu Buhari’s May 29 inauguration. “The new regime will be the one who pays the bills,” said Dolapo Oni, a Lagos-based energy analyst with Ecobank. “And no one wants to wait for the new government.” Buhari has not made clear his plans for subsidies, which are paid by the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency. Meanwhile, contrary to reports that the National Assembly gave zero allocation to fuel subsidy in the 2015 Appropriation Bill, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Ahmed Markarfi, clarified last week that the scheme is accommodated in the appropriation. He told reporters on Tuesday in Abuja that N100bn had been set aside in the 2015 budget for the maintenance of the subsidy while N45.2 billion was appropriated for kerosene. “The reports that fuel subsidy was removed from the 2015 budget are untrue,” the minister said while addressing reporters after a meeting with the economic team held to give update on the 2015 budget passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday, April 28. Okonjo-Iweala, however, said the provi-

sions made in the budget would not sufficiently cover the outstanding expenses, making it imperative for adjustments to be made especially in line with the adjustment of the benchmark price of 53 dollars per barrel and the cash flow crunch. Sources close to the some lenders in the country say the banks are already scrambling to limit their exposure to the oil industry at large following the precipitous decline in crude prices. “Quite a few players have had issues getting letters of credit,” one major oil markerter said. “Some people are choosing not to import anything.” Will Buhari remove the subsidy or not? Buhari who was represented in Lagos at a recent Breakfast Meeting of the Lagos Business School, by the a member of the Presidential Transition Committee, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, pledged to end the fuel subsidy and reform the oil and gas sector as a matter of priority in order to attract new investments. He had earlier written on his Facebook page during the recent campaign for the 2015 general elections, “Out of desperation, GEJ’s government has increased subsidy payments and reduced fuel prices to N87 per liter. Many people think it is a good decision. But it is not. “You think you are paying less at the petrol station, but you cannot experience much economic development this way. Why? The monies that have been budgeted for education, security, construction and many more will be diverted to pay for subsidy as it was never planned. “In recent weeks, India and Indonesia have removed fuel subsidies. Nigeria’s government decides to take on more. Deregulation is the solution, not increased subsidy payments.

“GEJ is seeking to buy your votes for N10, but your future cannot be exchanged for N10. He knows this move is not sustainable and so, he will definitely increase it, even more than N97, if you vote him in. He waited up until 27 days to the election to make this move,” he wrote. He said however that the incoming administration would not commence to effect the changes until October because the 2015 budget is President Goodluck Jonathan’s budget. It then means that the President-elect would have to say categorical how he intends to manage the situation before then. Reacting to the debate that what is called subsidy is just corruption in NNPC with some privileged Nigerians, the Public Relations Officer of a major marketer, (who would not want his name and his firm published), said the pump price of fuel in Nigeria is not a product of importation. “Granted importation adds marginally to price, but the bulk of the price is set on the international market by world demand and supply,” he stated. Meanwhile, petroleum marketers say they will soon meet with Buhari, in a bid to stabilise the downstream oil sector. The Executive Secretary of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Olufemi Adewole, told Sunday Telegraph this week that his members were planning to meet with the Presidential Transition Committee with a view to finding a solution to the confusion surrounding the importation of petroleum products. “We have written to the president-elect to meet with him with a view to charting a middle ground that will guarantee the investments of the marketers.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Business/ Interview

‘e-payment, best check for fraud’ The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, SystemSpecs Company Limited, a financial software development company with Remita as its flagship, Mr. John Obaro, says poor network problems affecting e-payment channels are not irresolvable KUNLE AZEEZ was there isations to be able to file electronically. Now, when you submit your documents to their portal, you will get a reference called a document number. You will take that document number to your Remita platform, to make payments and your payments leave your bank account and go to the FIRS account. You get an acknowledgement and you have proper records of the taxes you have paid.

What are some of the challenges facing the Central Bank of Nigeria’s cashless drive? Well, the first thing people always talk about is infrastructural challenges. The mere fact that there are infrastructural challenges has not stopped the rapid growth of e-payment in Nigeria. We are not where we were five years ago. In fact, we are not where we were two years ago. Therefore, many things are improving. We know we are not yet there, but we should not discountenance the fact that a lot of progress has been made. We cannot wait and say we cannot practise e-payment until everything is perfect because that day will not come. Even if you go to the developed countries, you still have occasional failures. You still have communication challenges. It may not be as much as we have here, but they still happen. Therefore, I really would not want us to focus on a glass that is half-empty, let us focus on the portion that is half-full. We have the opportunities with us here, things are happening, and things are getting better. So, let us focus on the fact that it is growing and the challenges that are coming up are not irresolvable. How would you assess the cashless Nigeria policy so far? Cashless policy is the direction of the world. The convenience is so obvious. Even in Nigeria, the resistance that was there in the early days is beginning to thin out because people are beginning to see the benefits; they are seeing that this thing works, and things can only get better. So, I see a situation in which more players will come. With the banks now fully on board on electronic payments, it is obvious that this is the direction things will go in the country as well. Don’t you think that the spate of electronic frauds is discouraging more Nigerians from adopting e-payment channels? There has always been fraud wherever you have man and money. The bulk of cash is now moving from cash to electronic space; of course, the robbers will follow. But the good news is that it is actually easier to put in controls in the electronic space. We are not saying fraud will not happen, but it becomes much easier to put in controls. With a tracker, you can monitor where the money is going to and who is doing what. Thieves thrive under anonymity. When they know that they cannot be caught and nobody will know they did it, they will continue. But when they know that in the electronic space, they would be tracked though it takes time, they will retract. Yes, there is electronic fraud, but that I believe is more in the short term than in the long term. As an e-payment firm, what have you done to reduce the spate of e-frauds? As a wholly Nigerian-developed product, we knew from day one that a lot of ambitious people would want to hack into our system. We built a lot of defence mechanisms from day one. Maybe there might have been some attempts, but none of them has crystallised. We thank God that till date, none has been

What exactly is the role of Remita in this scheme? Remita is a payment engine. Now, a number of organisations today already use Remita to pay vendors, to pay salaries, pension fund administrators and different types of payments. Now, they are able to make tax payments to FIRS. When they pay through the platform, they do not need to submit any document again because we are integrated at the back to FIRS. Therefore, we submit the data that organisation has provided to the FIRS, in addition to moving money to the FIRS. However, does e-filing means that the manual way of paying tax in the country will no longer be in existence? Well, I believe it is going to happen gradually because not all the FIRS offices have been converted. They are doing them in phases. There will be a period of transition, but ultimately the idea is that it goes to a paperless filing arrangement.

Obaro

The bulk of cash is now moving from cash to electronic space; of course, the robbers will follow. But the good news is that it is actually easier to put in controls in the electronic space

successful. This is why players in this industry always put security first. So, we put security first and we are always one step ahead of the hackers. They are there. People should not be discouraged by it. The point is that the level of fraud is still very low across the economy. For nine years, we have never had any case of hacking. This is why we host our system in the same company IBM and other big firms do theirs. Also, we always have our systems checked regularly by independent consultants. In terms of adoption of cashless Nigeria drive, the CBN has tried but we must keep the message going. I know people always talk about the challenge of infrastructure. In Remita, we allow payments in all the platforms including mobile and internet banking. It is meant to help people in all the cities and interiors. Declining crude oil prices have affected Nigeria’s revenue. The Federal Government is looking to boost revenue

from tax collection. How can technology help in this regard? The truth is that, many times, we judge people that they do not want to pay taxes. However, the truth of the matter is that, if the payment process is too cumbersome, some people, who want to pay, would just end up not paying because they would be carried away by something else. By making it easier for people to pay, it is expected that the collection would improve. Now, you have a 24-hour arrangement to pay through technology. There is no need saying the managing director is out of town and he would not return until next week. You do not need those excuses again. It is now easier to pay from your home, from your offices and from your mobile devices. Therefore, it is expected that the total collections would grow. The Federal Inland Revenue Service recently partnered your company to introduce electronic filing system for remitting taxes. What are your expectations from the e-filing scheme? My expectation is that the taxpayers now know that there are electronic options for them to begin to make tax payments. They may file electronically and effect their payments. They do not necessarily need to go to a bank branch again and they need not move from one bank’s internet banking to another ’s again. Log into Remita and make payment from anywhere. What really does e-filing imply to the taxpayers? Well, before now, the FIRS has been collecting tax reports manually. They have now created a platform for organ-

There is e-filing and e-payment. Are both accessible through the Remita? Remita is an e-payment platform. It is expected that you must have done your e-filing to collect your reference. When you come to Remita, we will now interrogate the FIRS platform to bring out all your information, and then you make your payment. What is the relationship between application and the banks? Now, when customers register on Remita, they fill an application form to their banks. It is their banks that actually register them on the platform. It is a multi-bank platform, so customers come on the platform and put in all their bank accounts. When it is time for them to make any payment, they just select which account they want to fund from. It need not be tied to any particular bank. You may have accounts with different banks. Therefore, you just select the one you want to fund from at that point in time and it goes through the internal approval rule of that organisation. The process of the e-filing seems to be very long. Will that not discourage an average individual? For e-filing, we can say that this is the first version of the product. With the first version of the product coming out, there would be some lessons learnt and in the not too distance future, we would expect some improvements. But for clients on Remita, what we have done is to create a simple access point for them to be able to make all their payments and save themselves some cumbersome processes. So, like I said earlier, things may not be perfect, but they will improve with time.

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Market mood swings positive

he bulls fought back during the week to end a 7-day bearish trend. The Equities market All Share Index (NSEASI) ended the week 0.15% up, having gained on 3 out of 5 trading days. The positive momentum observed towards the end of the week was, however, not strong enough to erase previous losses as Year-to-Date (YtD) return settled at -0.63%. Volume of transactions for the week increased marginally by 2.52%, while value traded declined by 28.44% from the previous week. Market breadth for the week pegged at 0.76x, representing 41 losers against 31 gainers. Top gainers for the week were BERGER, UPL, 7UP, and CAVERTON, which posted respective gains of 10.25%, 10.04%, 8.64%, 7.25%, with BETAGLAS and NEIMETH appreciating by 10.00% each. On the converse, GLAXOSMITH topped the underperformers’ chart with an 18.15% loss in value. Other top losers for the week were UNITYBNK, SKYEBANK, HONYFLOUR and ETI which recorded losses of 14.89%, 13.20%, 12.37% and 11.96% accordingly. The late rally observed during the week, following a predominantly bearish trading period, suggests that discerning investors are slowly returning to the bourse to take advantage of fundamentally justified and attractively priced stocks. Going by the oscillatory movement of market returns in recent times, we do not consider the current mood sustainable. Hence, we anticipate that there will be pockets of profit-taking activities in the coming week. We also expect the considerations and outcome of the approaching MPC meeting to influence market activities. 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 Update: Inflation climbs to 8.7%, GDP stems in Q1:2015 National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released the April Consumer Price Index, showing a 20bps rise in inflation rate to 8.7% up from 8.5% in March, to mark the 4th consecutive increase in 2015. Core inflation and food inflation surged by 0.2% and 0.1% to 7.7% and 9.5% respectively (vs. 7.5% and 9.4% in March). We are of the opinion that the inflation was cost driven, owing to the continuous depreciation of the Naira against the Dollar, which has impacted adversely on production cost. GDP growth suffered a significant decline in the first quarter of 2015, as it settled at 3.96%, implying a 1.98% slide relative to the 5.94% growth recorded in Q4:2014. The non-oil sector grew by 5.59%, with growth largely driven by the trade, agriculture, construction and telecommunication sectors. Low global oil prices and inefficient supply of crude (pegged at 2.18mbpd), impacted negatively on oil-sector growth as real growth settled at -8.15%, while the contribution of the oil sector to GDP was 10.45%. NBS also released a controversial unemployment statistics, stating that unemployment rate declined from 23.9% in 2011 to 6.4% as at Q4:2014. Business and economic activities slowed during the week, owing to petroleum product scarcity. This is expected to persist as petroleum marketers insist on receiving subsidy debt of over NGN200bn owed by the government, before supplying the product. Considering the cashflow crunch facing the country, and with only a few days to the swearing-in of the new government, we anticipate that the situation might be sustained if the present government is unable to settle. Fixed Income: Apex Bank activities dominate during the week The week was somewhat eventful, starting with two OMO auctions early in the week in a bid to reduce excess liquidity in the system. At the interbank market, the Call, 1M, 3M and 6M tenors closed at respective rates of 13.54%, 14.76%, 15.69% and 16.61% for the week. OBB and OVN rates also closed at 14.29% and 14.67% respectively, which represent WtD changes of 6.04% and 5.88% accordingly. The Nigerian Treasury Bills market enjoyed moderate buy sentiments during the week. This demand was particularly for the shorter term instruments, and the WtD change in yields were 2.46%, 0.66%, 0.80%, 1.07%, 1.46% and -0.32% for the 1M, 2M, 3M, 6M, 9M and 12M bills respectively. Yields in the bond space trended downwards generally during the week; the average offer yields on Benchmark and Off-the-run bonds pegged at 13.82% and 15.22% respectively at the end of the week. Also in the week, the DMO conducted auctions of 5-year, 10-year and 20year bond instruments worth NGN60bn and

…ahead of MPC meeting

was fully subscribed. Continuous demand for the greenback resulted in the depreciation of the domestic currency. Although Naira saw pockets of gains during the week, YtD return remains negative at -6.64%. Naira closed the week at a mid-price of NGN197.67/dollar, while forward quotes remained flat. Agric Sector: MERI-AGRI index drives to 1.68% WtD The Agric sector cut short its recent negative trend, as Week-to-Date return closed positive at 1.68%, to peg YtD at 17.34%. Sector breadth (0.50x) favoured decliners as one stock appreciated in price against two decliners. PRESCO appears to have taken a cyclical turn in the past 4 weeks, with an increase of 3.52%, reversing last week’s morose outlook. However, LIVESTOCK stemmed its 2-week bullish run, as its share price decreased by 2.04% to close at N2.40, a 5.42% differential of its N2.53 year high. Conversely, OKOMUOIL failed to live up to expectations, as it shed 0.28% to close at N28.44. We opine that the positive outlook in the agric sector might not be unconnected with the good showing of most of the companies in their full year and first quarter results. We anticipate that profit-taking might ensue in the coming week and advise cautious trading by investors. Banking Sector: MPC concerns to pressure returns performance Most banking sector stocks pared this week as investors sentiment swung, with the impending MPC meeting being a probable concern. There were only 5 gainers, led by ZENITHBANK, while all other sector stocks declined, save for STANBIC and STERLNBANK which traded flat. ZENITHBANK led the advancers with a price appreciation of 4.52%. The ticker was closely followed by UBA (4.00%), ACCESS (3.34%), GUARANTY (2.32%), and WEMABANK (2.06%). On the flip side, UNITYBNK once again led the losers’ chart, after paring by 14.89%, maintaining the trajectory set upon since its share reconstruction. The ticker was followed by SKYEBANK (13.20%), ETI (11.96%), DIAMONDBNK (5.00%), and UBN (4.55%). SKYEBANK released its much awaited FY2014 result at the end of the week. The result showed a maintenance of the trend in top and bottom line growth witnessed throughout 2014. The bank recorded gross earnings growth of 3%, while Profit-Before-Tax (PBT) and Profit-After-Tax

(PAT) declined by 46.7% and 47.4% respectively. We expect sector stocks to be pressured at the start of the week, as investors remain concerned about the possible outcomes of the MPC meeting, and how the sector may be affected. However, given that we believe that the committee will maintain its current policy positions, we do not anticipate that this will persist till the end of the coming week. Consumer Goods: Sombre atmosphere Activities in the Consumer and Conglomerates sectors were relatively quiet, as most counters retained their share prices at prior week’s level, although there were pockets of gains and losses on some counters during the week. Returns for the week were 0.69% and -0.18% for the Consumer Goods and Conglomerates sector, as measured by our MERI-CMG and MERI-CONG sector indices in the same order. There was also a noticeable negative sentiment on counters in the Breweries segment during the week (1 advancer against 4 decliners), as profittaking activities supervened on most counters in the week. 7UP recorded the most impressive outing with a WtD gain of 8.64%, and was joined on the gainers’ chart by UNILEVER (+4.72%), PZ (+3.57%) DANGSUGAR (+3.12%) NB (+1.09%) and DANGFLOUR (+0.65%) accordingly. HONYFLOUR, on the other hand, recorded the highest WtD loss of 12.37%, trailed by PREMBREW (-4.99%), VONO (-4.08%), NASCON (-3.61%) CHAMPION (-2.88%), INTBREW (-2.06%), FLOURMILL (-0.82%), GUINNESS (-0.35%) and VITAFOAM (-0.31%) respectively. During the week, NASCON released its 2014FY result, which showed 3.8% YoY growth in revenue, while profit after tax declined by 30.8% YoY. The unimpressive earnings performance could be attributed to the 8.73% increase in Cost to sales ratio and 83.1% YoY increase in finance charges for the year. In addition, investment income and other income declined by 86.9% and 54.9% YoY respectively. The company nonetheless declared a dividend of NGN0.50/share with a register closure date of 25th- 26th May 2015 We do not expect any news strong enough to move prices upwards in the coming week; however, value remains evident for some counters at current market prices. We advise cautious trading ahead of the oncoming MPC meeting and the political transition. Healthcare Sector: Profit taking ensued on

GLAXOSMITH. The Meri-Health index trailed the market, declining by 17.80% WtD to settle YtD return at -11.41%. An equal number of stocks appreciated and declined for the week, while all other counters traded flat. NEIMETH emerged as the top gainer for the week, advancing by 10.00% WoW to drive YtD return to 41.03%, trailed by FIDSON which appreciated in price by 1.59%, thus reversing part of the previous week’s loss. On the flip side, GLAXOSMITH consolidated on previous week’s loss, closing at NGN44.20, which represents a WtD loss of 18.15%. This was followed by MAYBAKER, which shed 10.61% to close at NGN1.60 in the week. The sector sustained the prior week’s drab mood. As we inch closer to the MPC meeting and government transition, we advise investors to tread cautiously while taking advantage of fundamentally justified stocks. Insurance sector: WAPIC leads the pack The bears emerged victorious during the week, as 2 stocks advanced against 4 decliners, to peg the sector’s WtD return at -0.14%, thereby settling YtD return at -1.83%. WAPIC, with a 1.89% gain, was the top gainer for the week, as it closed at NGN0.54 (vs. NGN0.53 in the prior week), just as MANSARD trailed the ticker with a 0.33% gain. On the flip side, INTENEGINS overturned last week’s gain, after it shed 7.02% to close at NGN0.53 (vs. NGN0.57 returned in the previous week). Other underperformers during the week included AIICO (-3.85%), NEM (-2.86%) and CUSTODYINS (-0.71%). All other counters traded flat. Given our opinion that most sector stocks are currently relatively fully valued, we do not expect a bullish rally on the insurance counters in the coming week. Industrial goods: Sector records marginal gains The industrial goods sector closed the week positive, with the Meri-industrial index appreciating by 0.22%. Two stocks recorded positive returns while three stocks depreciated in value. BERGER emerged as the highest gainer for the week, following a 10.25% growth in share price to NGN10.00. DANGCEM, the other sector performer for the week, managed a 0.28% gain to close trading at NGN178.50. PORTPAINT, CUTIX, and WAPCO on the other hand shed 4.96%, 4.82% and 0.30% respectively. In line with our expectations, most of the sector stocks traded in the negative zone, as investors took profits on previous weeks’ gains. We expect short term investment activities to persist in the market as investors continue to balance optimism with caution. Oil & Gas Sector: BRENT finds new price resistance The sector closed positive for the week, as measured by the NSEOILG5 index, gaining 0.62%. Three stocks advanced in prices, while two stocks shed points. Other stocks in the sector traded flat. FO, CONOIL, and MOBIL were the only stocks that traded in the positive region for the week, appreciating 6.27%, 5.00%, and 0.87% in that order. TOTAL and OANDO declined 9.09% and 3.21% respectively. The price of BRENT was sustained above its new resistance of USD60/barrel, closing at USD66.67/barrel, 1.96% higher for the week. Expectations for the end of the year price of crude oil, remain around the USD70 mark, which is however hinged on the stance of OPEC member countries at the next meeting in June. After trading much in line with our expectation, we envisage appreciation in stock prices in the coming week, albeit mild, as there is no major news to upturn the current market trend substantially Services Sector: UPL leads with 10.04% as LEARNAFRICA declines further The Services sector stayed positive for the week, as the WtD settled at 0.65% to drive the YtD return to 4.44%. Six stocks advanced against five stocks that declined, while others traded flat. UPL topped the gainers’ chart with a 10.04% gain to close at N6.03. Following closely were CAVERTON (7.25%), REDSTAREX (4.68%), ACADEMY (4.17%), NAHCO (1.80%), and AIRSERVICE (0.48%) in that order. Conversely, LEARNAFRICA led the underperformers with a 9.45% loss in value. RTBRISCOE followed suit, declining by 8.91%. Other losers were TRANSEXPR (8.62%), IKEJAHOTEL (4.29%), and ABCTRANS (1.75%) in that order, while others traded flat. AIRSERVICE released its Q1:2015 result during the week, which showed impressive turnover and Profit after tax growths of 20.74% and of 284.99% YoY.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Ten points to greatness (4) Success Nuggets Victor Okwudiri

08037674300 (SMS only)

o far, in this series, we have considered the following points: 1. You are not too small to make an impact; 2. You are not too old to make an impact; 3. The future is now. Now, the fourth point. 4. Stardom does not make stars. Stars make it to stardom. The word ‘stardom’ is an amalgamation of two words - star and Domain. stardom, therefore, speaks of the domain of stars. It is an abstraction of sorts for a conglomeration of stars. It is, therefore, not the domain that makes the stars, but the stars make the domain. The challenge, however, is that some people believe that the abstract domain called ‘stardom’ is what makes stars. As such, we hear statements like, “When I become that, I will do that.” My response is a big “No!” The doing comes before the being. If you don’t start doing it now the little you can, you may never become it. Instead of saying, “When I become the Governor of my State, I will make

my State clean,” start making your State clean from today. Then, people can notice you and elect you to become the Governor. Instead of saying, “If my salary is increased, I will work harder,” start working harder now. Then, your employer will increase your salary, so it can be commensurate with your input. Friend, don’t wait until you become. be, first. Then you will come to limelight. That is what it means to become. The moment you start being, you have started coming to your destination of greatness. This principle is what I call ‘The Mystery of Limelight.’ This is how it works: Limelight does not necessary change people. It only exposes people. Tragedy is, therefore, almost inevitable if the desired change does not take place within before the light shines on a person. To understand this more easily, I want us to dissect the word ‘limelight’. A semantic deconstruction and reconstruction of the word ‘limelight’ leaves us with two words constituting two sylables - lime and light. In the light of this semantic surgery, I want you to see limelight as a LIME fruit that is brought under rays of light. The question is: does the light change the sour taste of the lime? I’m sure your answer is a sure “No!” Now, I want you to know that, that is exactly how ‘limelight’ is in the real sense. It does not change you. It only exposes you. It reveals who you are to people. It brings out the real you. So, if you have character deficiencies, limelight reveals them. The same goes if you

have a good character. It is like money. Money is neither moral nor immoral, but amoral. It takes on the charcter of its owner. From Michael Jackson to R. Kelly, Marion Jones to Tiger Woods, we have heard embarrassing stories of people in the hall of fame who experienced a fall of shame, simply because they lacked character despite their charisma. So, before you seek spotlight, cleanse yourself of every spot. Friend, stop seeking stardom. Rather, be a star. That way, you will be segregated to the domain called ‘stardom’. In anycase, there is no place in this world called ‘stardom’. The word ‘stardom’ is only used in reference to a set of people who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavour (a human galaxy of stars). So, if you want to make it to stardom, distinguish yourself. However, assuming without conceding, that there is a place called stardom, I’d like you to consider this: in the word ‘stardom’, the ‘STAR’, which comes first, speaks of the person, whereas the ‘domain’ (abbreviated ‘dom’) speaks of the place. Now, I want you to know that the person (star) is more important than the place (dom), because places are meant for persons. It follows, therefore, that being a star is more important than getting to the ‘dom’ (domain). In the light of the foregoing, I urge you to make a commitment today to excellence and continuous capacitybuilding. You will succeed.

No excuses The Big Picture Julian Atufunwa 08032810713 (SMS only)

t takes a lot of discipline or should I say willpower to make positive moves towards achieving great goals in life. This is because human beings are naturally lazy. We are prone to taking the path of least resistance and at the end of the day give excuses with (a) our background (b) our inability to get formal education (c) inability to get assistance (d) lack of capital (e) physical challenges (f) age. Whatever your excuses might be, I would like to challenge you with the stories of the lives of these great men and women of our time, who against all odds made great impact in the world. I would like to start from my great country Nigeria. • Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche:- The story of this Nigerian-born writer serves as a motivating factor to all writers in the world. The awardwinning Nigerian author’s third novel ‘Americanah’ was listed by New York Times as one of the 10 best books of 2013. Her second novel, ‘Half of A Yellow Sun’ premiered as a movie in 2013 with several Hollywood and Nollywood stars. • Zuriel Oduwole:- This 12-year-old Nigerian girl has interviewied presidents and world business leaders. She was celebrated as the youngest person to be interviewed by Forbes magazine. In today’s world when many youths and adults are seeking

for jobs, Zuriel has discovered her purpose for living. She is already a hot cake in the business world and is referred to as the next Oprah Winfrey. She once said “she wants to rebrand Africa by bringing out positive things in the continent, and most importantly, convince Africans of the need to educate the girl-child www.nigerianeye.com/home/ feature • Helen Keller became blind and deaf at 19 months. For a lot of people, this would have been a justifiable excuse to beg for alms. But this did not stop her. She was the first deaf and blind person to earn a Bachelor degree in Arts. • Oprah Winfrey was 32 years old when she started her show, which has become the highest rated programme of its kind. • Martin Luther King Jnr. was 34 when he wrote the speech: ‘I have a dream.’ • Rosa Parks was 42 when she refused to obey the bus driver’s order to give up her seat to make room for a white passenger. • Col. Harland Sanders was 61 when he started the KFC Franchise. • John F. Kennedy was 43 when he became president of the United States. • Nelson Mandela was 76 when he became president of the Republic of South Africa. • Abraham Lincoln was 52 when he became president of the United States. The list goes on. www. goodreads.com/quotes/tab/escuses. But my point is you have no excuse whatsoever. If a physically challenged person like Helen Keller can achieve greatness, then you can, I

can. In an interview she said, “The greatest tragedy in life is a man to have eyes without vision.” Background - Your background shouldn’t put your back to the ground. It doesn’t matter where you are coming from or the circumstances around you. You have no excuse. Some of the great people of our time had their fair share of hard times. Contrary to beliefs, nobody owes you anything. You need determination, faith in yourself and faith in God. With these, you can achieve your dreams. Lack of capital:- I believe that if you can keep your eyes open and readily seek for opportunities, you will discover that you can start a business with little or no capital. I know of a business that your start-up capital is: • Your ability to speak • Ability to persuade people to buy • Humility and resilience. With these you can build yourself a great business. Let go of resentment, bitterness, oh!. My parents could not afford me a university education. Now that you have grown, do something about going back to school. My mentor, His Royal Highness Rev. John Ogu, said he came to Lagos in the 70s from his village with just a bag of clothes. He said he had no relations, friends, or kinsmen to squat with. At night, he would share a kiosk at a bus stand with strange people. But that was a mind made for greatness. He took a job as a securityman, something many would today regard as degrading and menial. Humility is the pathway to greatness. To cut a long story short, he eventually built himself a business empire, by God’s Grace. You too can.

SundayBusiness

New appointments at Red Media Africa

s part of the Red Media Africa (RED) restructure and expansion, the omni-media group has announced the appointments of Toyin Poju-Oyemade and Nosa Oyegun into its leadership team, while Isime Esene has now joined the Management Board. They lead a series of new hires and acquisitions across the line just before the group celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Toyin Poju-Oyemade will be leading Y! Productions as Senior Manager, and joins RED with over 10 years experience in television and radio production. She has worked as Producer on Inspire Africa’s Moments with Mo, and also Producer/Operations Manager at Ndani TV. She has worked with Multichoice Nigeria, Storm 360 and others. Oyegun joins RED as Online Content Lead, with a portfolio including YNaija.com, YNaija2015.com, YAfri.ca, Enterprise54 as well as online TV and radio. Before joining RED, Oyegun was Web Content Editor for DSTV Online, and founded the food blog, eatdrinklagos.com. Also as part of the RED restructure, Isime Esene, who was until April the Associate Editor of YNaija. com, has been appointed into the management board. He functions as Managing Editor in charge of Content. In this position, he works with the chief executive officer to oversee property across Radio, TV, Print, Events and Online. He joins other board members including Tolu Orekoya, Mfon Ekpo, Adebola Williams who is co-founder and Chude Jideonwo, who is chief executive officer. “As we move on from our start-up phase and consolidate our position as Africa’s number one youth media group, we are excited about these fantastic additions to our leadership team,” said Jideonwo. “We are deliberately building a company to own the future, with a decidedly young management team that’s incredibly experienced with global media and invested in its digital future. We are excited to expand the resource of talent and gravitas to propel RED into its next phase.”

Insight Communications, Optimum Exposures, others honoured

hree subsidiaries of Troyka Holdings Limited, namely Insight Communications, Optimum Exposures and Media Perspectives, as well as the Vice Chairman of the Group and Managing Director/CEO, Insight Communications, Jimi Awosika, bagged different awards at the recent Brands and Advertising Excellence Awards organised by Nigeria’s leading Brands and Marketing publication, Marketing Edge. Insight Communications won the Outstanding Agency of The Year award while Media Perspectives took home the Outstanding Media Buyer of The Year at the event which took place at the Civic Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe Road in Lagos. Other winners within Troyka Holdings were Optimum Exposures which won the Outstanding Out-Of-Home Company of the Year award while Awosika was honoured as the Outstanding Advertising Personality of The Decade. The awards came less than a month after the Chairman of Troyka Holdings Limited, Biodun Shobanjo bagged the Manager of the Year Award and Troyka Holdings Limited received the Best Enterprise of the Year at the International Achievements Forum held by the Europe Business Assembly at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall, London, United Kingdom. Also honoured at the event which was attended by the crème-de-la-crème in the Marketing Communications industry were the Founder of STB-McCann, Sir Steve Omojafor (Brand Personality of the Decade Award), Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya (CEO Brand Personality of the Decade), Chief Olu Falomo( Outstanding Advertising Icon of the Decade Award) while Sir. (Dr.) Chris Ogbechie and Mr. Chris Parkes received the Lifetime Marketing Achievement award. According to the organisers of the awards, the recipients, especially those in the Marketing Communications industry, were rewarded for their exceptional professionalism and for helping to advance the frontiers of the industry.

SUNDAY

BRANDS SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Public relations: MTN dumps Marketing Mix for DKK

Dele Alao

outh African telecoms, MTN Nigeria, may have dumped Marketing Mix as its public relations agency for DKK Nigeria, Sunday Telegraph has learnt. Since its inception in the country more than a decade and a half years ago, other public relations firms that had worked with the telecoms’ giant are Calisthux Okoruwa-led Xlr8 and Emeka Maduegbuna’s Corporate & Financials, popularly called C & F, which handled the PR account at inception before Marketing Mix took over. Marketing Mix, founded by Akin Adeoya, has been handling this account for close to 11 years. Unconfirmed reports then said that Marketing Mix got the business because of his closeness with Olu Akan-

mu, a high-ranking official of the telecoms firm, who has since left the organisation. However, the movement of the MTN PR account to DKK, though not officially announced, has raised some issues. For instance, the conduct of the PR pitch is said to have been “shrouded in secrecy.” Many stakeholders, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said they were not aware of when a pitch for the business was called for and conducted. No top PR agency was known to have participated in the pitch “if there was any at all.” Also of concern is DKK, which is now to handle the telecoms giant’s business. DKK is traditionally known as Above-The-Line (ATL) or advertising agency. The agency led by Mrs. Temitope Jemerigbe, as managing director/chief

executive officer, is not known to have handled any PR business. Reacting to the development, a notable PR practitioner, who craved for anonymity, said that appointing DKK shows how MTN does not care for its image. “It is even an embarrassment to have appointed an agency not known to the PR industry. This is an embarrassment to the PR industry itself. MTN cannot do that in South Africa,” the PR practitioner said. But the immediate past president of the Public Re-

lations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), the umbrella body of PR consultants in the country, Chido Nwankanma, defended DKK. He said: “It must be that the agency (DKK) positioned as an Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) capable of attracting both areas. But, the client also ought to have done due diligence.” Meanwhile, a check on the DKK website reads: “We are your 21st century marketing communications company, who understand that to make a wholesome

brand every aspect of the IMC must be deployed. We dial up the necessary service to meet the dynamics of a brief each time. “For your brand, we develop campaigns that will resonate with the target and deliver on the business objectives. We understand the need to ensure strong stakeholder management; that is why we deploy Public Relations tactics that will deliver to all relevant stakeholders.” However, when contacted via a text message, Adeoya said the MTN PR account still resides with

Marketing Mix. His text message reads: “As of this moment, yes,” meaning that the account still resides with the agency. When contacted on phone, General Manager, Corporate Affairs, MTN, Funmi Onajide, said that the company as a matter of policy does not respond to media enquiries on phone but rather through email. Enquiries on the matter were subsequently sent to her email address which she obliged. She, however, never responded as at press time.

Mouka re-introduces ‘Mattress Swap’ campaign

ouka Limited has re-introduced the ‘Mattress Swap’ campaign to enable its numerous esteemed customers and non-Mouka customers alike to exchange their old mattresses for a new Mouka brand at an incredible discount. The 2015 campaign offer, the company said in a statement, is expected to run for a period of one month between May 4 and June 5, 2015. The National Business Manager, Mouka Limited, Mr. Olufemi Asa, said the Mouka ‘Mattress Swap’ offer initiative, which was first introduced in 2013, was designed to further entrench the brands affinity with both Mouka customers and non-customers by helping them to renew sleep and comfort. “As the category thought leader in the foam industry in Nigeria and West Africa as a whole, we started the mattress swap initiative to encourage customers to replace their old mattress by bringing their old mattress to get a new one thereby helping them to renew the unparalleled comfort offering of Mouka,” Asa said. He explained that there was the need for customers to change their mattress af-

ter every four years, which is the average life span of a mattress. He, however, noted that many customers are constrained with the burden of how to dispose the old mattresses hence, the Mouka ‘Mattress Swap’ offer. He added that the Mouka ‘Mattress Swap’ offer gives customers the opportunity to own a new and comfortable Mouka mattress at a discounted price while also contributing to the environment by helping customers to dispose their old mattress which will be recycled. Also speaking on the campaign, the Marketing Manager, Mouka Limited, Mr. Olusegun Ajala, noted that the ‘Mattress Swap’ offer is not limited to Mouka products only as customers can trade in any brand of mattress for a new super comfort Mouka Mattress of their choice. He explained that the old mattress would be weighed to ascertain the value and the customers will be given the discount, which would be deducted from the value of any Mouka products of choice ranging from Mouka Royal, Mouka Regal, Mouka Legend, Mouka Flora or Mouka Regina.

L-R: Managing Director and Chief Executive, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Chief Dharnesh Gordhon; Consultant/Technical Advisor Processing, Products and Nutrition, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Omo Ohiokpehai and Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samuel Adenekan during its 4th Creating Shared Value Media Workshop in Lagos.

Analysts hail Chivita/ Manchester United brand partnership

he Chivita 100% and Manchester United brand partnership has been hailed by some experts. They believe that utilising the strength of the partnership to gain incremental marketing exposure is not only smart, but an also essential tool for brands to remain more competitive in today’s constantly changing marketplace. Besides, they insist that partnerships such as the one between Nigeria’s fruit juice flagship brand, Chivita 100% and Manchester United FC, has continued to generate massive inter-

est within the sporting community and consumers of the brand. A marketing communication consultant, Adewale Okoya, said: “Seven months after the partnership was signed, the management of Chi Limited seems to be doing an excellent job of projecting the partnership and the benefits to its numerous consumers. The communication tactics deployed to create awareness for the Chivita 100% fruit juice and Manchester United partnership has been so effective that both brands have become synonymous

with each other in the consciousness of Nigerian consumers.” For his part, a sport marketing consultant, Kanayo Nwosu, said the partnership between the duo is unique because it is the first time a Nigerian fruit juice brand is partnering an English Premiership side. “For every pack of Chivita 100% fruit juice I purchase, I am reminded of how this effective partnership has further endeared the brands to millions of soccer fans and consumers across Nigeria,” he said. Chi Limited’s Head of Marketing, Mr. Probal

Bhattacharya, said the journey has so far been rewarding for both brands. “We appreciate the feedback we are receiving from our numerous consumers and soccer fans. We are also excited that efforts to publicise this partnership are paying off from the huge awareness it has created. Our consumers should be rest assured that they will continue to enjoy the best of refreshment from Chivita 100% side by side with quality football from Manchester United; a unique offering that this partnership promotes,” Bhattacharya said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

SundayBusiness/Brands

Skye Bank leverages on Children’s Day

kye Bank Plc has instituted the Skye Rainow Essay competition for children who own and operate its Rainbow Account specially designed for them. This, the bank said in a statement, was a way of promoting the savings culture among children.

The Children Day comes up every May 27. According to the statement, the topic of the essay competition is ‘The Importance of an early savings habit,’ and is being organised to commemorate this year’s Children’s Day. The statement quoted the bank’s Head of Retail

Banking Group, Nkoli Okoli, as saying that the bank chose to stand out from the others this year by putting in place a special programme for the children to celebrate them. She said five winners would each receive the sum of N200, 000, while other consolation prizes

would also be presented. Okoli said that the competition would act as a customer reward programme as well as promote savings among children very early in their lives to enable them to imbibe the culture of financial discipline. She said the competition is open to both new and

existing Rainbow Account holders whose age ranges between seven and 12. In addition, she said the length of each entry must not be more than 200 words. However, any entry that shows parental input will be disqualified. According to the state-

ment, the essay must show the child’s good understanding and good presentation of the topic, personal savings experience and creative ideas for savings. The essay competition, which started on April 20, 2015 will end on May 18, 2015.

Nobel Carpets unveils new designs

n a bid to provide customers with a broad spectrum of quality offerings, makers of Nobel premium brand of carpets and rugs, Lucky Fibres Plc, has unveiled a new range of high-traffic designs for its commercial division. The new range of designs, according to a statement, is targeted at hotels, restaurants, corporate offices, worship centres and other places that attract high human traffic. With over 25 years experience in the industry, Nobel Carpets and Rugs says it is the largest manufacturer of carpets and rugs in the whole of West Africa. The company offers Made-in Nigeria carpets and rugs, which are of the highest international quality. Speaking at the company’s headquarters in Lagos, General Manager, Nobel Carpets and Rugs, Mr. Jitesh Pamnani, stated that the new range of hightraffic designs was borne out of a need to offer customers more options to beautify their spaces with high-end quality products. He said: “The new range of designs is a reflection of Nobel Carpets’ efforts to continuously come up with top quality designs to meet and even surpass

customers’ needs. These new designs, which are very durable and affordably priced, were specially developed for commercial places with high-foot count like churches, mosques, hotels, restaurants, corporate offices etc. Due to the huge amount of people that go to these places, we found it imperative to come up with special designs capable of absorbing the pressure placed on the rugs so they can last for a much longer period. “Our rugs and carpets are manufactured here in Nigeria using state-of-theart manufacturing plant to ensure utmost quality.” Besides, Jitesh said the company also manufactures customised rugs and carpets to customer specifications. “Apart from our new designs, we also offer customised rugs and carpets to customers for different purposes. A customer can come up with any design of their choice and then we go ahead to manufacture it. Till date, we have delivered carpeting solutions for a huge number of businesses ranging from corporate offices, telecommunication companies, government offices, mosques, churches,” he said.

Nexus woos customers Taiwo Jimoh

ne of the leading producers of home appliances in Nigeria, Deekay Group, has opened its first Nexus showroom in Nigeria. The show room is part of its plan to expand its consumer touch point and delivery of quality of service to its customers. The Head, Brand and Corporate Communications, Mr. Damilola Owolabi, said: “We are thrilled to unveil our first Nexus brand shop in Nigeria. Nexus is a dynamic brand that has over the years enjoyed a vibrant relationship with its cus-

tomers.” Owolabi added that Nexus was bringing several consumer -friendly activities, “so, we are asking consumers to get ready for a journey with our company to bring comfort, style and pleasure to different homes across Nigeria.” For her part, Head of Sales, Deekay Group, Christy Augustine, said: “With the opening showroom, our customers could have access to see our various affordable products. We assured our numerous customers of genuine Nexus products with a purchase backed up with a two years warranty and after sales service.”

L-R: Executive Director, SystemSpecs, Mr. Deremi Atanda; Brand Ambassador, SystemSpecs’ Remita Corporate Champions Cup and former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Mr. Peter Rufai and MD/CEO, SystemSpecs, Mr. John Obaro, during the Season 2 of Remita Corporate Champions Cup at the Campos Stadium in Lagos.

Magic Mirror OOH berths in Nigeria

escribed as one of the world’s latest Out-of-Home advertising technology in sub-Saharan Africa, Magic Mirror has made a debut in the country, courtesy of Soundz & Meknitz Limited. Classed under the emerging media and below the line/indoor advertising category, it works by interfacing a specially designed mirror with an inbuilt LCD video and audio programme that also doubles as a viewing mirror. On the innovation, Managing Director, Soundz & Meknitz Limited, Mr. Felix Ugbechie, in a statement, said the TVC was seen playing on the mirror, with an inbuilt sensor that squeezes the advert message to a corner on approach of a user to present a full mirror and returns after use. He said already his company has been granted exclusive permit to install the next generation advertising technology in all the rest rooms on all the airport lounges in Nigeria, a factor he is sure will give maximum value to Nigerian advertisers.

Ugbechie, who described the advertising medium as unique because it offers the advertiser the opportunity to have something close to personal conversations with individuals who come in contact with it, said that the Magic Mirror advertising has the distinguishing capability to pass the message to the

personally and without interruptions. Besides, it also overcomes the challenges of no tune out, trashing or flipping pages that have been the disadvantages of electronic and print media advertising in recent time. He said: “The Magic Mirror is like a welcome companion to the often discon-

certing privacy of the rest rooms. That is why we say it holds personal conversations because advertisers have the privilege of talking to individuals in this secluded privacy and be able to arrest their attention throughout their stay. This is an advantage no other form and medium of advertising can offer.”

life in most Nigeria cities means that most people often skip breakfast in order to get to the office or meet early appointments, thus we decided to come up with packs of quality biscuits that can serve as a substitute for breakfast in this circumstance.” He explained that the packs would make good gift items. “Sona Digestive has been made with ingredients like high quality flour, vegetable oil and also contains high fiber to ensure that it is nourishing and satisfying. Our new pack sizes mean that there is enough biscuits for a family of four

for one week with just one purchase and the freshness guaranteed all through the week. There are multiple packs inside the big pack,” Murugesan said. He added that Sona Biscuits was bringing innovation to the confectioneries industry in Nigeria with an exciting array of products lined up for introduction into the Nigerian market in days to come. The company he said, has increased its production by with additional state-of-the-art plants from Italy to meet the customers increased demand for quality products and value for their money.

Sona Biscuits introduces new pack sizes

he food subsidiary of Sona Group of Companies, Sona Biscuits, has introduced four new pack sizes of its Digestives and Ginger biscuits, along with Aktive and Malty Biscuits into the markets. A statement said the packs are perfect for families and individuals who want a little extra to see them through the week and for weekend activities. Managing Director, Sona Agro Allied Foods Limited, Mr. Subramanen Murugesan, said: “Our products are made to support the lifestyle of our customers. We’ve observed that the fast pace of

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY

Politics SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

The Sunday Interview

Clerics seeking favours from politicians are like Judas – Catholic Archbishop of Lagos p.32, 33

Analysis

Prove corruption allegation against me –Tinubu p.34

Interview

‘Buhari can retain Jonathan’s performing appointees’ p.35 PDP will form a formidable opposition, says Rep-elect p.37 Iriase: Why I want to be House Speaker p.39

Amaechi

Close-up on Buhari’s interim ‘kitchen cabinet’ Johnchuks Onuanyim

O Abuja

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

Ogbeh

n April 29, the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari inaugurated a 19-member committee to midwife a smooth transition of power, after his All Progressives Congress won the March 28 presidential election. The Transition Committee, headed by renowned former Super Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Joda, was charged, among others, to develop a clear framework for liaison with the outgoing administration for the purposes of a smooth hand-over/take-over and to receive handover documents from Ministries, Departments and Agencies and itemise the most important or most urgent issues confronting the incoming government Before the Transition Committee was selected and inaugurated, Buhari told the media in his home town in Daura, Katsina State that he would prefer a lean team made up of experienced and vibrant technocrats as members. According to him, he prefers the committee will be a springboard for those interested in ministerial slots either for themselves or others.

However, there are indications that 80 per cent of the members are likely to be ministers, given their ages, experiences, affinity with the political class and geo-political spread. Ahmed Joda Alhaji Ahmed Joda is a retired Super Permanent Secretary who is no stranger to public administration. He was nominated by Buhari as the chairman of the 19-member committee, who described Joda as “one of the few surviving links between First Republic civil service and the present day, a man whose versatility includes farming, industry and 21st Century IT and one of Nigerian’s precious assets.” Joda was among a class of super permanent secretaries in the 1970s that played a major role during the Nigerian Civil War. In the 1960s, he worked with Ahmadu Bello in the Northern regional government. Outside his career in the civil service that spanned years, Joda also served as chairman and board member of various bodies, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Nigerian Communications Commission, Pastoral Resolve, SCOA, Nigeria, Chagouri and

Chagouri Construction, Flour Mills Nigeria and Nigeria LNG. Given his age, Joda would not likely make the ministerial list of the incoming government but might influence the appointment of some ministers. Doyin Salami Doyin Salami, the vice-chairman of the committee, is a member of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Central Bank of Nigeria and was a member of the Federal Government’s Economic Management Team. He holds a PhD from Queen Mary College, University of London. Currently, he is a senior lecturer at the Lagos Business School and an executive director of the UK-based African Business Research Ltd. Dr. Salami’s researches include corporate long-term financial management; macroeconomic policy; corporate competitiveness and risk management and characteristics of small and medium enterprises. In addition to teaching, Salami also consults for the Department for International Development, World Bank, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

SUNDAY, MAY 10, 2015 S

The Sunday

Clerics seeking like Judas – Cath Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins is the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos State. In this interview with CHIJIOKE IREMEKA, he speaks on developments in the polity A number of dynamics played out in the 2015 elections, especially as the ruling Peoples Democratic Party lost power to the opposition All Progressives Congress. What would you say of Nigeria’s democracy? Well, the elections that we just had were very important to Nigeria’s democracy. It’s like a watershed in the history of the country in many ways. It was one election in which the voters were not particular about the party, but were concerned and interested in the quality of the persons contesting the elections. That was a major incident that we can’t overlook in the whole political situation in Nigeria. We have an incident, where people voted a candidate of one particular party and moved on to another party to vote a different person in another election. This is remarkable and it’s an indication that, though the political awareness of the people is low, yet masses are not blindly following the politicians. It shows that people are aware of individuals who aspire for elective positions, whom they believe would work for the people. For me, it’s major in the history of our political process. Again, w e ’ e never had a

situation whereby power transited from a ruling party to an opposition party in Nigeria. I, therefore, think it’s a sign of growth in our democratic experience, a situation in which people voted and their votes counted in determining who takes over the leadership of the country. It’s something that we should be glad of. I would say that INEC was more prepared for the elections than before. It made a serious effort to ensure that we had elections that were tagged credible by both Nigerians and international bodies. I would also say that the introduction of card readers was a major step in the right direction, regarding the elections and the activities of INEC on the election. I see all of this as indication of growth in our political experience. PDP said it was going to rule the country for 60 years, but 16 years after, the party has fallen. What do you think are the factors that aided APC to take over Aso Rock and 19 states? Well, in the first instance, it is becoming clear that Nigerians are getting ready to vote according to how they feel about the government. It’s no longer about the wishes of the man in power, but it was done according to how the masses truly felt about the situation in the country. The rate of corruption that we have had in the last few years has been monumental in many ways. Though we have been having that but in these few years, it has been so bad. So, when we have somebody who is coming on the platform of fighting corruption, and such a person has a record that people can look back at and say he is credible, he can do it. I think that was the major factor in the power shift from incumbent to the opposition. I think also that the charisma of the President-elect generated some aura of possible change in the country and I believe that when we continue in that direction, a lot of improvement will be experienced in Nigeria. One will only continue to be hopeful because the President-elect has a lot of responsibilities on his hands. The expectations of the people are very high. I mentioned corruption and that is one major area that people are very concerned about. He also talked about security and the efforts he is making to meet the security needs of the country. So, people were ready to try a new hand different from what they have had. They believe there is a need for change and we hope that such promises of change would come to fruition. These and other reasons accounted for PDP’s loss of power. The fear of Buhari has gripped a number of people in the country and some contractors of abandoned projects are rushing back to their sites. Do you see Buhari as the ‘messiah’ that Nigerians are yearning for, to break out of the shackles of corruption? I believe that the personality of a leader in any government or other places determines the direction that the people follow. He’s the key in the way and manner that people act and react if he is able to maintain that image of a man that is quirky clean as regards corruption. I believe many people will fall in line. Also, when the masses see the personality of the man beyond reproach, they will fall in line. When a leader is engaged in some corrupt activities, the followership will not

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Interview

favours from politicians are holic Archbishop of Lagos feel threatened by the position of such a leader because they know it is not possible for the corrupt leader to go against them. I think, therefore, that the personality of the President-elect will make a lot of difference in this matter. He has always been simple and his simplicity does not permit flamboyance. This will go a long way in setting the tone for the ministers and those in parastatals. So, I have a strong feeling that his personality will make a difference. But that is not to say that time is not what we will be looking at to determine whether our optimism is properly placed or not. In other words, we all are looking forward to seeing whether the President-elect would attract the change we expect. But then, the change must take place, because Nigerians’ expectations are high that if the change takes long to be visible, people will get worried again and perhaps, vote him out of the office. So, I have a belief that his personality will make a lot of difference if he gets the right people onboard. In the just concluded elections, some church leaders and other clerics were paid and used by politicians to mobilise their members for their elections. What is your view on this? Obviously, in every profession and vocation, there are people who will keep to the principles and ethics of that profession and there are others who don’t keep to the ethics. That is why it is possible to find some men of God engaging in underhand practices in order to get favour from politicians. It was like that among the 12 apostles. There was even a Judas. So, it is a human factor that is there. One only hopes that those who have the responsibility of leading the people in their religious lives will make more effort to really lead in the right direction. Leading in the right direction means utilising the very values of Christ that he has given to us in integrity, honesty and ensuring that we put what we preach into practice. We must make efforts to do this to generate more confidence in those whom we have the opportunity of leading. Like I said, there are weak ones, not too strong ones and all of these are within the folks. Just as the scriptures demonstrated, we will always have those who fall short of the expectation. With your popularity and the respect reposed in you, would you consider vying for an elective position if opportunity calls? In the Catholic Church, we have certain principles that guide our lives and activities. Part of such principles is that the areas of life that are they are trained to be carried out are left to them. The principle of God upon us is the fact that, if a priest decides to enter into party politics, it naturally alienates those who are not of his political party. People of one party constitute the membership of that party, so by longing to be a member of a particular party, he alienates others. But the job of a priest is to bring people together. So, even in terms of practice, it is not advisable for a priest to go into politics. That is the just the way it is in the Catholic Church. For how long will this last? If you finish your bishopric appointment, will you be allowed to go into active politics? The fact is that the job of a priest is to help people to develop an attitude to life that shows the fear of God and respect for people and willingness to contribute to common growth. These are parts of the job of a priest. And so, it helps people to understand, live and abide by the principles like that. It’s not for him, at any point

in his life, to join party politics. Of course, we are interested in the politics; we are interested in the way people are governed because it affects the welfare of everyone. So, we expect to take an active part in talking about the issues and discussing the issues that will be improve the system. But to now belong to a political party is what is forbidden for us, the priests. Pope Francis criticises gay marriage and backs the ban on contraception. What should be the action of Christians and churches, especially Catholic faithful towards same-sex marriages in Nigeria? There is a position of the Catholic Church on this matter, which is based upon scriptures, tradition and formed on our perception of the natural law. The scriptures do not, in any way, permit same-sex unions. The scriptures do not permit abortion. In fact, that right to life of all human beings is guaranteed by God by that statement: ‘Thou shall not kill.’ Therefore, where ever we are, whether Europe or America or Africa, or Nigeria or my village, those principles are valid. And because they are valid, what happens in Nigeria cannot be different from what happens elsewhere. In other words, the principle of gay marriage is unacceptable anywhere we find ourselves. As far as gay union is concerned, the law of nature does not approve of it. The very nature of man and woman is that they are complementary in such a way that a man and a man cannot be complementary in the same way. There are very typical compositions that make it unnatural for people of the same sex to be in a union or a marriage. This is why it’s the position of the church that gay marriage is unacceptable in any part of the world, populated by human beings. In a situation where there are traces of such among clerics and members of the church as well, what will be the position of the church on that? Well, the position of the Catholic Church is that you let the people realise that he or she is wrong and that the act is sinful. It’s truly against the will of God and the natural human way. So, that is the first attitude that the church works on. Also, even when these individuals have gone wrong, or been misled, so to say, they will still be respected as human beings, whom we will continue to teach, appeal to and help to recognise the fact that they have gone wrong. So, that is the way we look at the issue of gay union in the church, if found. As the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, was there a time you anticipated being in this position or dreamt about it? No, I think anyone who wants to go into priesthood is going there first to be a priest, simply to live the life of a priest and do his du-

That is why it is possible to find some men of God engaging in underhand practices in order to get favour from politicians. It was like that among the 12 apostles. There was even a Judas

ties for the people. If you do all these things, if by the grace of God he wishes to take you to another area of possible service, then you will go. However, it is not something that I was dreaming about or working towards. I think anyone should be doing his work and let God take control of his or her life. What we are doing is not a career. It’s only when you are in a career that you begin to think of how to move from one point to the other. This is simply a vocation that you put yourself to the service of the church and God. So, it’s left for the church and God to decide what happens and take you to an area of additional service. That is the attitude of most priests, and if everyone has such attitude of seeking such position, I think something is wrong.

Nigeria for some reasons. Has the Catholic Church been able to address the issues and truly return to the association? In actual fact, there was never a time that the Catholic Church pulled out of CAN. What happened was that the Catholic Church had concern over some areas of life of CAN and we made our concerns known to the leaders of CAN. So, at the national level, we said those areas of concern should be addressed while our participation in the executive work was suspended. The Catholic Church was participating at the state and local government levels but it was only for that period that our participation was suspended. That is now over for quite a while. The matters have been discussed and settled.

So, when you were finally appointed the Catholic Bishop, what were your reactions and feelings? I must say that at a point when I was appointed, I felt challenged because I wasn’t preparing myself for such a position rather I was busy doing my job in my diocese. I would say that there was a sense of fear in my spirit. I felt this is another area of responsibility that is higher than what I was doing before. So, that attitude of being challenged was there but then, I said to myself, if God wishes me to be here, he would have gone ahead to prepare the way for me. He will make sure that things go well. I believe very strongly that the Lord will not lead me to where He has not prepared me for. To that extent, the initial feeling of concern was moderated by the faith that God, who brought me here, would not leave me alone. So, it was mixed feelings for me.

Going by things that are happening in the country, what is your greatest fear for your country, Nigeria? Without giving it much thought, I think my greatest fear is the ethnic divide in our nation. It’s a very serious matter that we need to consciously work hard in order to be truly united. As it were, we cannot do away with the fact that we come from different parts of the nation and the reality that Yoruba man is who he is, Hausa man who he is and Igbo man who he is, exists. That is the reality but we have formed into one nation and therefore, those, who have the responsibility of leading us, should take proactive steps to reduce the mutual fear that exists within our different ethnic groupings. In any decision that would be taken by our leaders, they should put into consideration, the principle and criteria that cut across the ethnic groupings. The same criteria have to be applicable in such a way that the people will be less fearful of one another within the nations. I think a lot of these reassurances depend on the ability of the leaders to offer a leadership that would not be doubtful and fearful of one ethnic group or the other. This is one thing we need to address. Of course, there is the issue of economic welfare of people. At this point in time, poverty is very high in the country. A nation in which the vast majority of the people are poor is certainly a nation sitting on a keg of gun powder. That is Nigeria that I fear. This is because there is a limit to which people can endure before things give way. Indeed, if the area of poverty is addressed in a more pointed way, I believe Nigeria will have brighter prospects. If the opportunities for creating jobs for the people were more than they are now, all the indices that help to ensure that economic occupation of people are being improved – electricity, good roads, adequate health care for people, and those who work in these areas are well taken care of, the poverty level will drop naturally. So, I have a lot of concern with regards to the level of poverty in our country. Again, another area of fear and concern is insecurity. More and more often, we hear about kidnapping. It’s almost becoming a trait in Nigeria. It’s such a thing that regular ordinary people have been put under such great pressure for no just cause. So, I believe that that area of security to life needs to be addressed in such a way that the security of the people will be ensured for the people to sleep with both eyes closed, rather than having the fear of uncertainty about who is coming after them at night. I’m so worried about our security, which I think is another major area of concern.

What are the challenges of this office been so far? Lagos is a big archdiocese, with a variety of people and areas of concern and interest. So, to be able to pull all of that and manage them is a big challenge but by grace of God, we have created the structures that will help us in the management of the areas of concern of the archdiocese. We had four regions before I came but now we have 15 deanaries over and above what we had. The challenge of putting things together was there. We have the challenge of personnel, the priests to minister to the increasing number of Catholics within the archdiocese are lacking. Again, by the grace of God, we have more vocations and we pray that God gives us help from other dioceses. The same concern that everybody has with regards to adequate funds to do all that that we need to do. We need financial resources to buy land and build churches and hospitals. There is the need to help our people to grow in their faith and spiritual life. This is an ongoing effort we are making to continue designing programmes and information that would help them grow. How many priests would you need to get these things done? It’s difficult to put a number to it because every year we have ordinations, they get swallowed up in the ocean of needs. We had 12 newly ordained priests two years ago but they all vanished. The issue is that the more priests you get, the more the areas of need show up. So, all this makes it difficult to say that when I have such a number of priests, it will be enough. It will never be enough. In the recent past, the Catholic Church pulled out of Christian Association of

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Prove corruption allegation against me –Tinubu

he cheering sets in as soon as the crowd in the gallery spots the small figure in his white kaftan strolling over the tracks of Teslim Balogun Stadium. The voices swell to a roar when the frail man begins to climb the gallery steps. He squeezes a path through the horde of young men wearing hats and t-shirts with the logo of Nigerian opposition party APC; he is applauded, patted on the shoulder, blocked in his way. Once he even has to shove his round spectacles back onto his nose, the glasses having shifted in the commotion, but he remains perfectly calm, like a man accustomed to such attention. It is December 11, 2014. In a few hours’ time, Nigeria’s largest opposition party will announce the winner of its primaries in this stadium in Surulere, a middle-class neighbourhood in the megalopolis of Lagos. Then it will become clear that northerner Muhammadu Buhari is going to be the presidential candidate for the All Progressives Congress in the coming elections, to be held on March 28. Judging from the fanlike behaviour of the crowd, you would say the favourite contestant had just entered the stadium, but nothing could be further from the truth. Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not partake in the primaries. Officially the bespectacled man in the kaftan is nothing more than an ordinary party member, but the crowd knows better than that.

The real boss Tinubu has passed by already, but Babatunde Ajishe keeps yelling. ‘Tinubu nah real oga,’ he shouts in Nigerian Pidgin English. Tinubu is the real boss. Ajishe is one of the many agbero boys among the supporters. These young men without clear means of income are sometimes used by politicians as a paid crowd and at other times for the dirty work, like intimidating the opposition. They are also an important branch of Lagos’ grassroots, which constitutes Tinubu’s electoral base. Bola Tinubu (62) was governor of Lagos State from 1999 till 2007. After his two terms, he gave his successor Babatunde Fashola, the current governor, a leg up and thus kept his finger in the pie. APC’s candidate Muhammadu Buhari, now the new president, also comes from Tinubu’s inner circle. Tinubu has proven himself the kingmaker. The new government of Africa’s largest oil producer will meet a colossal task. The ill-equipped Nigerian army, despite support from Chadian and Cameroonian forces, still has a hard time curbing Boko Haram in the north-east of the country; unemployment is rife and two-thirds of Nigerians live off no more than two dollars a day; the country only produces a fraction of the electricity it needs. The People’s Democratic Party of previous president Goodluck Jonathan had won every national election since the reinstatement of democracy in 1999, but for the first time in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, it was a tight race. To combat more effectively, the two largest parties in the opposition merged into the APC, uniting constituencies in the north and the southwest of the country: a considerable bloc of the Nigerian electorate. It paid off. Bola Tinubu was the driving force behind the strategy that turned politics in Africa’s largest economy upside down. The mother of all Banners with her portrait hung for weeks

on the lamp posts lining the streets of Lagos in 2013. Next to the low resolution picture of the veiled woman were some words that said how dearly this ‘mother of all’ would be missed. The banners flapped in honour of the late Abibatu Mogaji, the woman who adopted Bola Tinubu at a young age; the only mother he has ever known. Till her death on June 15 at the age of ninety-six, Mogaji was President of the Association of Nigerian Market Women and Men. Traditionally in Nigeria, the market is the economic heart of society and a political force to be reckoned with. As a boy Tinubu often accompanied his mother to meetings. From her he learnt the importance of grassroots politics. The experience also turned him into a street fighter. His mother, would send off her son to hand out political pamphlets. Many a time – and not always successfully – little Bola Tinubu had to scuttle off through the market aisles in order to avoid a beating by supporters of an opposing party. He encountered his other source of political inspiration in the mid-70s when he moved to Chicago for his studies. There he got fascinated by the Daleys, an Irish-Catholic family at the heart of urban politics: Richard J. Daley was the city’s mayor for twenty-one years until his death in 1976. Friends from Tinubu’s schooldays remember how he admired old Daley. The mayor’s well-crafted system of patronage combined with clever fiscal politics might not always have been entirely democratic, but it did keep the city out of the red. The diligent employee Despite his admiration for the Daleys, it would not be until 1992 that Bola Tinubu became active in politics himself. After rounding up his studies as an accountant he returned to Nigeria in 1983 as a treasurer for Mobil Oil. In those days Ben Akabueze was relationship manager at the Nigerian International Bank. He remembers Tinubu as a diligent employee who drove a hard bargain to get the best results for his firm: “He likes to win for the company, an organisation, or a cause.” The banker and the accountant became friends. Akabueze would experience Tinubu’s loyalty in friendship when the former’s son got seriously ill and had to be treated in the United Kingdom: the biggest financial contribution for the hospital bill came from Tinubu. “He wasn’t even into politics yet, and he needed nothing from me. It showed his generosity of spirit.” His accountant friend already held strong opinions and he loved a good debate. Still it surprised the banker when Tinubu announced in 1992 that he would go into politics, this at a time when the umpteenth military regime since Nigerian independence seemed to be opening the door for democracy. Tinubu proved his political savvy by winning the senate seat for Lagos West, the most competitive district of Lagos. Nigeria was not to enjoy democracy for long, as the military regime annulled the Third Republic’s presidential elections. Not long thereafter General Sani Abacha seized power, and for many Nigerians in politics, journalism and civil society, Nigeria got too hot to stay in. Bola Tinubu went into exile in 1994. Democratic movement “This is how we all sat, around a table such as this one,” Prof. Ropo Sekoni says in his par-

Tinubu

If I respond to all false allegations, I would lose focus. Nothing ever stuck, so why should I bother? lour in the Lagos suburb of Ikeja. He points at the armchairs surrounding the salon table. “But Tinubu never stayed on his seat, he was always moving from one place to another.” The professor describes the first time he met Bola Tinubu, in the mid- 90s, in a living room in Bowie, a city in between Baltimore and Washington D.C. It was a meeting of Nigerian exiles who were fighting for the return of democracy. Apart from Tinubu’s restlessness and the fact that he went outside every few minutes for a smoke, the professor remembers his constant emphasis on the term ‘fiscal federalism.’ ‘He thought the federal government should release power to the states.’ In his reasoning he always remained a businessman, remembers Dapo Olorunyomi, veteran news editor and another friend from that period. “Tinubu once asked me: do you understand how much money we all will make under democracy? Tinubu loves money.” At that point the accountant was already a successful trader in real estate. His financial support to the democratic movement and also to the many Nigerians who sometimes ended up penniless in the US or the UK, generated a lot of loyalty for Tinubu. He could therefore count on broad support when he stood for the office of Lagos State governor at the return of democracy in 1999, elections he would subsequently win. The politician Tinubu made his biggest enemies in the era that followed, when he shoved aside the Alliance for Democracy, the party on whose platform he had run for governor. Ruffling some feathers, he picked old friends and capable professionals instead of party veterans for his cabinet. The frail man from Lagos was also regularly in disagreement with the burly ex-general in the Nigerian capital Abuja: President Olusegun Obasanjo. With Lagos in the hands of the opposition, the president did everything to restrict funding to that state. Ti-

nubu fought back by dragging the Federal Government to court nineteen times. Under Tinubu’s administration, Lagos started to flourish. The new governor managed to clean up and revive the tax system. When he took office, the internal state revenue was 600 million naira a month; when he left eight years later it had grown to 7 billion. Part of this money is being invested in public amenities such as infrastructure. “The city was disorderly before Tinubu. Nobody obeyed traffic rules, people didn’t pay taxes and everyone was building without approval,” says Simon Kolawole, a leading political reporter during Tinubu’s tenure. “Compared to the West it might not seem much, but for Lagosians it was an enormous improvement.” The most egalitarian Nigerian Thursday afternoon, a few weeks before the elections: Tinubu’s living room, which feels like a hotel lobby, is filled with expectation. The big man is holding audience, and his house on Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, one of Lagos’ prime real estate areas, is brimming with people. Visitors tip the guards at the gate to inform them when he is at home. Even outside his mansion the agbero boys are jostling, hoping for their share of Tinubu’s generousity. Four framed pictures of Bola Tinubu flank the room, one a painted portrait almost reaching the ceiling. Waiting on the Louis XVI furniture are two market women wearing earrings with the APC logo. Also seated are five Lagos State Commissioners; an elderly imam dressed in a gold brocade robe; the son of the Oba (king) of Lagos; the young Nigerian pop singer Dammy Krane and his manager; and a man with his very pregnant wife. When Tinubu enters the room they all jump from their seats. In the presence of Asíwájú, as his followers call him – a word which means ‘leader’ in the Yoruba language – you stand up. It is hard to imagine this is the same man who a friend from his time in exile describes as ‘the most egalitarian Nigerian I know.’ Well-known journalist and presenter Funmi Iyanda is worried about Tinubu’s transformation into Asíwájú: ‘Nigerians have a tendency to celebrate their leaders, even the questionable ones. It is time we realise that leaders are our servants, not the other way around.’ In such an environment even the most democratic of minds will become despotic, she feels. CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

Politics

‘Buhari can retain Jonathan’s performing appointees’ Dr. Perry Iloegbunam is the Technical Chairman, Presidential Committee on the Research and Application of Stem Cell Transplantation Technology in Nigeria. The politician who has played active roles in South-East politics since 1999 in this interview with CHIJIOKE IREMEKA, assesses the performance of All Progressives Congress in the South-East and the place of Igbos in the current political dispensation As a chieftain of the opposition who has played prominent role in South-East politics since 1999, how would you assess the performance of APC in the South-East? You know, politics is dynamic, and what you see today might not be what you will see tomorrow if you didn’t restrategise. APC did well at the centre and Imo State due to the charisma of their candidates but not the same in other parts of Igbo states. To this extent, that APC did not win election in other South-East states is not a thing of surprise to anybody because of their candidates. It’s one of those things about politics. Like I said, the candidates that the party fielded for the elections are not the ones that can out do other parties’ candidates. Rochas Okorocha won election in Imo State, which was as a result of the leadership he provided in the state. Buhari was able to win at the centre because of his charisma, which is ready to fight corruption, which every Nigerian is yearning for. So, if any other person did not win election in other places, it is the same thing that played out. This is the way I look at it, instead of putting blame on anybody, we need to re-organise because of future election, if APC performs well in the South-East, it will win elections. So, that is how it goes. The impact of APC in the South-East is not much and it’s as a result of its candidates at different levels. But if Okorocha has not been able to win election in Imo State, then, it would have been a different kettle of fish entirely, but he provided the leadership that made people to follow him. So, it is not as if the easterners didn’t vote APC but they voted the candidates of their voices. What are the reasons for the failure of President Goodluck Jonathan at the centre? A number of things were responsible for his failure, including corruption which ran without any solution, no probe. PDP wasn’t managing their resources very well. PDP took many things for granted and created many loopholes for people to get more interested in grabbing what they want, at the expense of the country and the common man. What do you think about Jonathan’s appointment of new officers and sacking of old ones when he has two weeks to leave office? Well, I don’t see anything wrong with that, especially with the appointment of the Inspector General of Police that he just made. The IGP is one man that has a very good record in police system. Go and check his records. He can provide the police with what it requires. He is an intelligent and well educated man. He has better understanding of the policing in the country. I’m happy that we have such a person as IGP. So, once the Federal Government provides the enabling environment for him, at least, one could achieve what one wants to achieve as long as policing is concerned. You know was has two Masters Degrees he has served as Principal Staff Officer to five IGPs so he is a round peg in a round hole. And again, any reason for sacking and re-appointing the new ones, I don’t have the details, but I’m just looking at the IGP because I happened to have followed his records. So, I just believe that he will provide Nigeria what we need.

Will Buhari be justified if he sacks these newly appointees and re-appoints these persons? Traditionally, things like that happen but I don’t believe it should be the case in all aspects. If the outgoing government has appointed people, the incoming President should inherit those good people that previous government has appointed and do away with the bad ones. Just like I was talking about the IGP, it goes to every sector too, though the appointment of the officers is based on the judgment of the President-elect. Going by a number of things that played out in the just concluded election, where is the place of Igbos in the current political dispensation in the country? I have much confidence in Buhari as the incoming President that he will handle the Igbos with care irrespective of whom they voted for. Again, it should be noted that it’s in their decisions to vote according to their conscience the way they have done. The next thing is how to manage them, because election has not ended in Nigeria. There will be 2019 elections and even if Buhari is not interested in re-contesting, APC will still need to win election in the South-East in 2019. So, it’s not the question of anybody trying to victimise the other for voting whom he voted, but it’s the question of convincing the people to vote them today and tomorrow. The problem APC had in the eastern region has to do with the candidates they used for the elections. For instance, Imo is still an Igbo State but Rochas Okorocha, an APC candidate won an election there. So, why did other candidates didn’t win in other states? It’s not the question of blaming anybody now, but it’s a question of the candidates. Rochas won because of his charisma and people have seen what he was able to do and that is why they returned him. This is how I look at it. To that extent, I believe that incoming President will find a way to carry everybody along. Wole Soyinka allegedly said Igbos voted massively for their belly, what is your reaction to this statement, which has gone viral even though he has denied it? It’s a laughable position because the reasons I have given earlier still stand. A number of things were not provided for that change in the eastern region. I do know that the west have been in the opposition

for a long time and we were in that opposition with them too. What happened now, that made Soyinka to make such comment is quite very wrong. It makes no single sense whatsoever to apportion blame to every Igbo man for the last election. Every man is entitled to his own opinion and conscience. Everything for me is that everybody should be carried along. Election has not ended. Again, if the Igbos voted President Goodluck Jonathan as their son, there is nothing wrong in that and I don’t see anything wrong with it. So, for me, that is not a statement of fact and shouldn’t be given attention. Gas to power project in the South-East and South-South, how would this project impact on the development of the regions? Basically, nothing will be achieved without power. We need these things, and I believe that the government is fully aware that before any meaningful progress will be made, in terms of industrialisation, power must be adequately in place. Then, I don’t understand what the outgoing government has done with power. I don’t have the details of what they have done, but to a very large extent, as a layman, all I know is when I see the light, then, I know there is light. When the light is not there, every other thing you are doing is a story. The common man wants to see the light and that’s all. Certain basic things need to be done for us to move this country forward, talking about industrialisation; and the number one of them, is power. So, the incoming government, have said a couple of things about power and I want to believe that they will do their best to see that these things are put in place to move the country forward if we must move away from epileptic power supply. This is just what I think; there won’t be the need to start apportioning blame on anybody. What should be done is to put things in order, in the right perspec-

Iloegbunam

tive and then move the country forward in all aspects. Do you think the region has enough gas to power and sustain the station? Even if there is enough gas there, for me, the issue is not the gas being there untapped but tapping the gas to do this. We have enough gas, I believe, to carry out this project but we need to get the commitment of the government to ensure that these things are put in place to ensure there is light. I think we should have enough. How would you view the post-election economy of the country and that of SouthEast; what will it look like? You see, so many people today are looking forward to incoming government. A lot has happened in the past, some good and some bad but now we are looking forward to tomorrow. So, the incoming government, for me, has a lot to do, especially in trying to create a very conducive and enabling environment so that businesses will thrive in the country. When the enabling environment is not there, we will continue to have problems; and for that environment to be there, government must demonstrate commitment in all sectors from health to other places. We will be looking forward to that conducive environment and then we take it up from there. The election will bring about good fortunes for the country based on the charisma of the incoming president. Confidence in Nigeria is coming back again and international investors will return to invest in the country. So, we will have a robust economy, there is no doubt about that. What are the major issues you would like the incoming government to address as matter of urgency? The government should address the issue of power and the same time, corruption must be addressed. It’s very regrettable that corruption has institutionalised in the Nigeria, where nothing goes on without something passing under the table. Even the situation where files disappear in the ministries is as a result of corruption. So, we need to address these things otherwise, it will continue to haunt us. For us to achieve what we need to achieve and move the country on to where others are, we have to tackle it with full force.

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

‘I won’t respond to every allegation’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 4

‘It has changed Tinubu. He has inhabited a more authoritarian role, even though it seems unnatural to him.’ Nevertheless, Tinubu is not one of those typically Nigerian ogas (bosses) who cannot bear criticism, and Iyanda knows this from her own experience. As a young journalist she once compared Tinubu with Steve Urkel, the bespectacled character from the sitcom Family Matters. ‘I fully expected him to hate me after that, but I got a phone call saying that he thought it was funny.’ When he took office as governor, he even asked her to join the transition committee that was to come up with a roadmap for Lagos’ future. ‘I never saw such a collection of bright minds,’ says Iyanda. ‘He is good at identifying talent and using people to achieve what he set out to do.’ Meritocracy This is likely his most poignant difference with the average Nigerian leader: Tinubu is

Obaze

not afraid to gather competent people around him. ‘A leader is successful when he develops other leaders,’ he states in his office adjacent to the parlour full of waiting people. A constant refrain in Nigeria is that you don’t achieve something because of what you know but because of who you know. Tinubu however is interested in the capabilities of the people he surrounds himself with. An example of this is his successor to the governor’s seat, the technocrat Fashola. There’s also Tinubu’s old friend, the banker Akabueze. His appointment as Commissioner of Economic Planning & Budget was controversial mainly because he was the first ever commissioner who was not Yoruba, the ethnic group that forms the majority in Lagos. ‘Talent is not exclusive to an ethnic group. I’ve always believed in diversity,’ says Tinubu in a voice with a slight slur, his typical tone. Tinubu’s street popularity is not reflected by the elite, as many intellectuals are much less fond of his leadership. At the bottom of

that aversion are the endless rumours about his corruption –interestingly, this ‘man of the people’ has also become very rich. Some even call him ‘Lagos’ biggest thief,’ an aspersion they say is supported by the amount of property he has allegedly acquired. The politician behind his desk shrugs off any accusations. ‘If I respond to all false allegations, I would lose focus. Nothing ever stuck, so why should I bother?’ A mall, an airline and a newspaper One of Tinubu’s most outspoken critics was Segun Oni. As the PDP’s National Vice Chairman for South-West, he dubbed Tinubu ‘the most corrupt politician in Nigeria.’ The luxury shopping mall in Ikeja, the majestic Oriental Hotel, an airline and a newspaper empire, these were but a pick of the possessions Oni accused Tinubu of having obtained unlawfully. But Nigeria is a country where politicians change sides as easily as they change kaftans, and last year Oni defected to Tinubu’s APC.

Now he praises his fellow party member for his political astuteness and plays down his own accusations as inspired by nothing more than partisan politics. ‘If by now the anticorruption people have not gone after him, it means Tinubu has a clean bill.’ Tinubu’s ‘clean bill’ could just be an indication of how difficult it is to find documented evidence of corruption in Nigeria. At best, Bola Tinubu is a paradox. The politician claims to believe that taxpayer’s money should be utilised for the good of the people and has even lobbied – in vain – for a clause in the APC manifesto about welfare for the elderly and widows. But in his final year as governor he also forced through a pension law that, among other things, provides him with a house in Lagos and Abuja, six cars to be replaced every three years and new furniture every two years, as well as a cook, steward, gardener and other household helps, all to be paid for by Lagos State. ‘You can’t take Nigerian politicians too seriously when they take the moral high ground,’ says Folarin GbadeboSmith. According to the Chief Executive of the Lagos-based Centre for Public Policy Alternatives, the political system inherited from the British is organised to extract resources and funding from the country in order to enrich its rulers. ‘Once you are at the head of the political food chain, no one expects you to deliver a service to the people.’ Leaders with vision are scarce. That is why he feels it is would be unfair to brand Tinubu only as a power-hungry godfather. “Then you miss the policy of this man. He is much more a political strategist than a dictatorial personality. Lagos is better off under Tinubu. Whether the development would rate high at a global level is a different matter. But he created an environment in which people can thrive economically.” Many Nigerians do see Lagos as the best achieving state, but given the quality of governance in the country, their standards are pretty low. A solid opposition Back to Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, where Tinubu’s appearance aroused so much enthusiasm. The votes have been counted, and it is now clear that former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari will run the race for APC against President Jonathan. When you glance around the emptying stadium, you see artificial grass covering the pitch, tracks divided by neatly drawn chalk lines, and walls freshly painted. This stadium is maintained by the Lagos State Government. It is a striking contrast to the National Stadium deteriorating on the other side of the road under the management of the Federal Government. The condition of the National Stadium is representative of the country’s government. Buhari will inherit a failing state. The fall in oil prices has cut the state’s revenues by a third. The rulers in the capital Abuja have in the past mainly indulged themselves in looting the country’s treasury with impunity, without caring much for the needs of the people. There is no guaranty the graft will lessen under the new rulers. But they -and this is new- will be more likely to be held accountable for their actions, because for the first time there will be a solid political opposition. And that might be Bola Tinubu’s biggest feat. Source: zammagazine.com

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

Politics

Fashola, Amosun commend Mbu for professionalism

Biyi Adegoroye t was a rain of accolades for the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, in charge of Zone Two, (Lagos and Ogun commands), Mr. Mbu Joseph Mbu, recently as governors, a traditional ruler, and top police officers commended him for his commitment to professionalism and for various infrastructural development he carried out at various commands in the country. Speaking as special guest at his induction into the Crime Reporters Hall of Fame in Lagos, governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola and his counterpart in Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, said the induction should buoy the police chief to rededicate him to discharging his duties in the overall interest of the nation. Fashola, who was represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Security, Major Babatunde Panox, (rtd), urged Mbu, to redouble his efforts in ensuring protection of lives and property in the states under his jurisdiction. He said that with the growing economic and political status of Lagos, as well as emerging position of Ogun State as an industrial hub, the challenge of ensuring safety of lives and investment cannot be less daunting. “As I always say the reward for hard work is more work, and to whom much is given, much is also expected. Your award should motivate you, the commissioners of police under your supervision and the entire officers and men not only to sustain the cur-

L-R: AIG Adeyemi, Major Panox (rtd.), AIG Mbu and wife receiving the award from Comrade Orji

rent crime control measures, but to modify them periodically in tandem with societal dynamics and trends in the law enforcement profession,” he said. Speaking to Sunday Telegraph at the event, Amosun, who was represented by Mr.

Olayinka Balogun, a retired commissioner of police, commended Mbu for his visionary leadership which has brought crime to a very low level in the zone. “The governor has met Mbu. He does not believe in hearsay. When they met, they got

along immediately, as the governor continues performing his duties while Mbu goes ahead with his complementing with security functions. Though he is a very strict officer, CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

PDP will form a formidable opposition, says Rep-elect Hon. Tajudeen Adekunle Obasa is the member-elect, House of Representatives for Ojo Federal Constituency on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. He tells EDWIN USOBOH, about his victory and plans for his constituency when he assumes office To what will you attribute your victory? I will attribute it to a lot of activities I have been involved in in my constituency, yes to my track record. One thing in life is that to be successful as a politician, you must be a man of all people. I started this race like child’s play and the journey was rough and tough. As it is, I had to mingle up with so many people starting from the elderly people by doing some favours. Also I assisted a number of youths to gain admission to tertiary institutions of their choice and also helped some to secure employment. So all these really helped and contributed to my success in the election. So I don’t discriminate from indigenes and non indigenes; whether you are a Yoruba man or not and that is the reason I said I am a man of all people. Whenever there is a problem, I always come to their aid to make sure that everything is solved. What plans do you have to meet the expectations of your constituents? The truth is that they expect a lot, and as it is, I have been able to go round and tell them that formally that we had the majority at the

National Assembly but right now, we are in the minority but that does not mean we would not embark on developmental projects. What we lack from the Federal Government presently, I will try as much as possible to bring some of them but we can’t influence ourselves through the executive arms presently because we have lost the centre. But anything that has to do with the nation, we shall join hands to build the nation together. And in my own constituency, I will always come back and feed them with the information on issues. And in terms of my empowerment programmes for the youths, the women, the aged and other social amenities needed in the area, I shall do my best to provide them. What informed your decision to contest for House of Representatives? I had never thought of aspiring for this position. What I was aspiring for then was council chairmanship in the local government election but when the leaders looked into my track records and the good will within the community, not even the Ojo town constituency alone but within the nooks and crannies of Ojo Local Government, they said I should drop the ambition of the local government council chairmanship for the Federal House of Representatives. I wondered how I would be able to cope given the fact that it is a huge capital projObasa

ect but they assured me of their support. So I accepted the offer and we started the race. Like I said earlier, I thought it was a child’s play. The APC candidate I contested with in 2011 was the same candidate of the then ACN and I was the candidate of PDP for the local government council election. He won the election on the platform of ACN and as I told him then, he won because of electoral malpractices perpetrated by Lagos State INEC. But if we are going to proper election, I would defeat him, and it has shown now. He was able to become the candidate of their party. I knew that I would win because I have done my homework; I have my structures in the election wards so the community leaders, the non-Yoruba speaking people, I had cordial relationship with all of them and they assured me of their support. Since PDP is the minority in the lower chamber, what challenges do you anticipate? We are going to run a strong opposition in the parliament there. Secondly, we want to tell them that they don’t know how to run the opposition, they have been in the minority before but presently, we are going to make sure minority becomes the majority as 2019. And

as it is, we want to tell them that there are vibrant hands within the PDP and so shall it be. Why did you choose to contest on the platform of the PDP? That is my party from the onset and I can’t defect to another party now. It is a national party. A minority would be a majority someday. A party which does not believe in democracy or in the nation as a whole that so much believes in his own sectional structure cannot be recognised. The only political party that practised democracy is PDP. Whenever PDP is going for their primary or convention, they always make it known and it will be transparent. They do not impose people on the party. But the other party imposes candidates on the electorate without recourse to due process. I like PDP. Had it been it is another party, they would not have chosen me to aspire, they would have told me to go for councillorship due to my stature. I’m actually younger than my age, and I don’t have money, so they would have told me that “since you don’t have money, then you can’t contest, but for PDP the best must emerge.” What is your relationship with the Igbo community in Ojo Constituency? I have a good relationship with all non-Yoruba speaking people in Ojo Local Government Area; be it South-East, South-South and the Arewas. Anywhere you go to, you will hear Obasa and this has been going on before the election. Whenever they are in distress, they will call and I make sure I relieve them from that burden; so all these things wee the factors that determined my winning and my success. They should not worry, no amount of treat because I am an indigene both my paternal and maternal in this local government. Besides, I come from a royal house and I am the Secretary of Ojo Town Community as a whole.

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Close-up on Buhari’s interim ‘kitchen cabinet’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

and United States Agency for International Development. Also, he consults for British American Tobacco, BGL Securities Ltd; CocaCola Nigeria and Equatorial Africa, Kakawa Discount House and he has facilitated or participated in corporate retreats for Zain Nig Ltd., MTN and African Petroleum Plc., among others. Salami would be qualified for the incoming administration’s ministerial list, given his background. Tam David West As a social critic, Tam David-West is a household name. He was minister of petroleum and energy under Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s military government of 1984–1985, and minister of mines, power and steel under the regime of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (1986). David-West, a professor of Virology and a lecturer at the University of Ibadan, had earlier served as commissioner for education and a member of the Executive Council of Rivers State (1975–1979); as a member of the 50-person Constitution Drafting Committee for the Federal Military Government of Gen. Murtala Muhammed. He was born in Buguma, Kalabari, in what is now Rivers State. David-West, an ardent believer in Gen. Buhari’s competence, is being considered as Minister for Petroleum. In a recent interview, he said he would serve under Buhari if called to do so. Festus Odimegwu Festus Odimegwu is a former Managing Director of Nigeria Breweries Plc and immediate past chairman of the National Population Commission. He replaced Chief Samaila Makama at NPC. Odimegwu, who served as NPC boss under President Goodluck Jonathan, is best remembered for helping to rally the organised private sector to support the failed third term bid of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Before that, he also helped rally private sector support that stabilised the Umaru Yar’Adua presidency. Odimegwu, whose tenure at NPC was short-lived, championed the modernisation programme that widened the distance between Nigerian Breweries and its competitors. Odimegwu, who is versed in public sector management, served as a director of Dangote Cement Plc until March 2012; director of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc between 2004 and December 31, 2011; and director of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc. He graduated with B.Sc Chemistry from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and M.Sc Brewing from Beriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK. He was Chairman & CEO, FS Group of Companies Ltd and a non-executive Chairman, Royal Lifestyle Services Group of Companies Ltd. Odimegwu was also a non-executive chairman of Quintessentially Nigeria Ltd. Odimegwu hails from Imo State but might not be endorsed by the state APC for a ministerial position. Nike Aboderin Nike Aboderin is also one of the representatives of the Private Sector in Buhari’s Transition Committee. Her private sector experience was majorly in the banking sector where she rose to the position of Group Head, Large Corporate at Skye Bank Plc in 2014. She also had a stint at Citibank Nigeria. She was also Special Adviser to the Ogun State governor between July 2011 and August 2014. She was a member of the executive council and was responsible for the trade and investment portfolio and reported directly to the governor. Nike might not be able to compete favourably in her professional area for a ministerial slot. Also, the APC women leaders recently kicked against the choice of the women on the Transition Committee and might stand in the way of some of those to be considered for ministerial positions.

L-R Vice-President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, President-elect, Major General Muhammadu Buhari and Inauguration committee chairman, Alhaji Ahmed Joda at the committee’s inauguration

Olawale Edun Olawale Edun is tipped as minister of finance in the incoming government, having served as Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State from 1999-2004. He is, allegedly, the preferred candidate of the former governor of Lagos State and APC National Leader, Senator Bola Tinubu. Edun, with experience in Economics and International Finance, is on the Transition Committee as a technocrat. He has worked at Chase Merchant Bank Nig. Limited (later Continental Bank Plc) – including spells at Lehman Brothers and Chase Manhattan Capital Markets, New York, USA, the World Bank / International Finance Corporation, Washington DC, USA and many other places. He is the founder and current Chairman of Denham Management Limited (now Chapel Hill Denham Group). He serves on the board of African Paints Nigeria Plc, among others. He is also the Chairman, LiveWell Initiative, a health education and literacy non-government organisation as well as Sisters Unite for Children – another NGO which assists street children. Edun’s chances could be stalled by the possibility of Gov Babatunde Fashola, of Lagos State becoming Attorney General of the Federation and minister of justice or minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Fashola was the chairman of the APC presidential fund raising committee. Bola Adesola Bola Adesola, a seasoned banker and lawyer, joined Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited in 2011 as the managing director/ chief executive officer. Prior to joining SCB, Adesola served in senior leadership capacities in Citibank, Nigeria and Tanzania for a period spanning over nine years. She also served as managing director of Kakawa Discount House Nigeria and executive director in First Bank Nigeria, with responsibility for managing the business in the Lagos Directorate including retail, corporate and commercial banking. Adesola, though qualified for a ministerial position, might be hindered by her area of profession, given the number of her colleagues on the committee. Muhammed Hayatudeen Muhammed Hayatudeen, a seasoned technocrat, comes with his wealth of experience, including the transformation of the former Federal Savings Bank into a thriving com-

mercial bank, FSB International Bank which is now defunct. Apart from the establishment of the now defunct FSB International Bank, he was one of those behind the Nigerian Economic Summit that set the agenda for the re-structuring of the Nigerian economy and putting it on a firm foundation. The Nigerian Economic Summit invariably provided the platform for Vision 2010 where Hayatudeen also played a prominent role. He had worked in the Northern Nigerian Development Company where he retired as managing director. He is a graduate of economics from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria. He served as member of numerous regulatory bodies such as the Technical Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation (TCPC). Hayatudeen has a chance of becoming a cabinet member in the next administration. Abubakar Malami Abubakar Malami, SAN, another member of the committee, is 48 years old. He graduated from Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto and between 1995 and 1996, worked as Magistrate II in the Kebbi State Judiciary. He was a member of the Local Government Election Tribunal for the 2003 Election and National Publicity Secretary, Muslim Lawyers Forum of Nigeria from 2002 – 2004. He served in various capacities, including being a state counsel and magistrate in Kebbi State and teaching law at the Usman Dan Fodio University before going into private legal practice. He was also the National Legal Adviser to the defunct Congress for Progressive Change. He is from Kebbi State and his relationship with Buhari in the CPC days might fetch him a ministerial slot. Audu Ogbeh Audu Ogbeh, from Benue State, is a former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party and erstwhile Minister of Communication. He is a seasoned politician and a philosopher who believes that politics should be a part-ptime business. He studied at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1969 – 1972). Also, he studied at the University of Toulouse, France (1973 – 1974) before returning home to commence a teaching career at the Institute of Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1972 – 1976) and headed the Department of Humanities, Murtala College of Arts, Science and Technology (1977

– 1979). Ogbeh’s political career started in 1979 when he ran for the Benue State House of Assembly on the platform of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and blossomed when he was appointed National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2001. He replaced Chief Barnabas Gemade, also from Benue. He held this position until January 2005, when he was forced to resign due to his criticism of President Olusegun Obasanjo’s handling of a crisis in Anambra State. Since he left PDP, he has never thought of returning to the party. He returned to his farming career afterwards. As at 2009, he was chairman and managing director, Efugo Farms, Makurdi, and a member of Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships Incorporated, based in Philadelphia, United States of America. Ogbeh is among those from one of the legacy parties that fused into the APC, the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria. He is one of the leading voices of APC in Benue State and is most likely to grab the coveted position of Minister of Agriculture. John Odigie-Oyegun APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, definitely may not be a member of the incoming cabinet but will play a strong role in the formation of the cabinet. OdigieOyegun, a graduate of Economics from the University of Ibadan, was a retired Super Permanent Secretary before he became governor of Edo State in 1992 on the platform of the Social Democratic Party. After the annulment of Babangida’s transition to democracy, he joined forces with pro-democracy activists who campaigned for a return to civil rule, under the umbrella of the defunct National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). He later became a prominent member of the now defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party and chaired the technical committee set up by the party to advise it on sensitive national issues. But in 2012, Oyegun parted ways with the ANPP and joined the ACN. Shortly afterwards, they went into merger talks with ANPP, CPC. On June 13, 2014, the former governor was elected the first substantive national chairman of the APC. It was alleged that he had expressed interest in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) but was told by the President-Elect that it was not possible. CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

Politics

Iriase: Why I want to be House Speaker Hon Pally Iriase is the Deputy Chairman Constituency Outreach Committee and represents Owan -East/West Federal Constituency of Edo State. He spoke with select journalists on his legislative agenda, and how he will assist President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari if elected speaker of the Eighth Assembly. PHILIP NYAM was there The APC is not likely to zone the speakership position to South-South. If that happens, what will you do? Well, I do not wish for my party to go the route that PDP found itself in 2011. I would not say just because I am interested in the leadership of the House that I will wish my party ill. It is unfortunate that somewhere along the line these issues were not straightened out before the election which out to have been a good guide but I can assure you that a great majority of the members-elect are waiting for the party’s zoning formula, while wishing that justice equity and fairness will guide that exercise. And I can assure you that so long as the zoning is fair and equitable, members would not want to rock the boat the way they did in 2011. Another thing you will want to know is that the President- elect Gen Mohammadu Buhari comes across as s strong personality with a more robust mandate not necessarily in number but because of his general acceptability in

the highly populated states in Nigeria and for that reason I do not expect that APC will finish the zoning whichever way it goes and fold their arms. Policy and democracy are about people influencing each other and the party would want to start its relevance fight from the word go because if one fails to learn from history, you are bound to suffer the consequences from your lack of understanding. What makes you feel that you can conveniently pilot the affairs of the House knowing that you are just first among equals? Let me formally inform you that I am contesting and by the grace of God and the support of all men and women of goodwill, I shall win and become the speaker of the Eighth Assembly of the House of Representative on inauguration day. My aspiration is driven by the desire to provide a complimentary leadership in the House of Reps to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari a leader known

Iriase for his zero tolerance for corruption in our public life My aspiration is ennobled and anchored on the federal character provision of the Federal Republic of Nigeria my aspiration is based on my robust experience and undeniable qualification for the post of speaker My aspiration is propelled by my desire to champion a legislative agenda that gives meaning and practical expression to the change mantra to the incoming administration of APC. I am Hon. Pally Iriase a second

Close-up on Buhari’s interim ‘kitchen cabinet’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 8

Ogbonnaya Onu Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu is a former governor of Ebonyi State. A graduate of Chemical Engineering, Onu is revered among his political contemporaries as someone with strong tenacity in a change philosophy. He was chairman of the APC presidential screening committee that screened its five presidential aspirants. Until the merger of the legacy parties, Onu was the National Chairman of ANPP, having started his political career in 1991, when he was elected first governor of the old Abia State. He later became the first chairman, Conference of Nigerian Elected Governors in 1999. The former governor also emerged as the presidential flag-bearer of the then All Peoples Party (later known as All Nigeria Peoples Party). He and other progressive politicians initiated the process of merger of a coalition of opposition political parties in the country which metamorphosed into the APC. He is held in high esteem by the President-elect and he is being considered for the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. He will play a major role in the incoming cabinet. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi Outgoing Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, was the Director General of the APC presidential campaign organization and was, at a high level, instrumental to the success of the party in the presidential election. He allegedly made huge financial commitments to the Buhari campaign, aside buying into the vision of change. It is not expected, therefore, that he would be part of the Buhari presidency from the scratch. He has tall political credentials, having been Speaker of Rivers House of Assembly for eight years and chairman, Conference of Nigerian Speakers for many years. Amaechi

was also the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum before it was factionalised. The Rivers State governor may not contest the ministerial slot with anybody from his home state but his concern might be which ministry to serve in. Senator Hadi Sirika Senator Hadi Sirika is an ally of the President-elect. He represents Katsina North Senatorial District and is currently the vicechairman of the Senate Committee on Millennium Development Goals. Sirika is the only lawmaker on the Transition Committee and always hoped that whenever Buhari emerged president, things might begin to take a different turn. He is close to the President-elect, being from the same state and deserves membership of the transition committee. He is also likely to pick a ministerial appointment. Solomon Dalong Solomon Dalong is a lawyer by training and a lecturer by profession. As a lecturer, he had the opportunity to attend leadership trainings, courtesy of international human rights organisations. Solomon Dalong, the son of a retired Director of Health in the Taraba State Civil Service, has apparently done well for himself at 51. Immediately after passing out from the Law School, he took up a job as Personal Assistant to the late Chief Solomon Lar. He was then appointed Adviser Emeritus to President Olusegun Obasanjo. This job lasted till 2003. In 2004, he took up an appointment with the Faculty of Law, University of Jos, as a lecturer. In 2005, Dalong combined lecturing and studying, pursuing a post-graduate degree in Law. His LLM programme successfully ended in 2007 and he was appointed chairman of Langtang South Local Government Area in Plateau State the same year. His ten-

ure as council chairman ended in May 2008. He then returned to the University of Jos. He attempted to represent Langtang North and South at the National Assembly but lost. He is on the Transition Committee on the strength of his credibility and personal recognition and might also enjoy a ministerial nomination. Mallam Adamu Adamu Adamu Adamu, a renowned public analyst and newspaper columnist, is the secretary of the committee. He has a long-standing relationship with Gen. Buhari. An indigene of Bauchi State, Adamu was among those who constantly criticised the government of former Bauchi State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Adamu Mu’azu, now the PDP national chairman. By virtue of his relationship with Buhari, he is likely to be a member of the incoming cabinet. Boss Mustapha Another member of the Transition Committee is Boss Mustapha. He is a politician from Adamawa State and was one of the governorship aspirants of his party in the state. Although he did not clinch the ticket, he remains one of the architects of the APC’s success in the state. His consideration for a ministerial slot would, largely, depend on his relationship with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar. Lai Mohammed Alhaji Lai Mohammed is the second APC National Working Committee member on the Transition Committee. He is the National Publicity Secretary of APC and a vibrant public analyst. Lai Mohammed has the credentials to clinch the Ministry of Information portfolio but he has a Herculean task regarding whether he will represent his home state, Kwara, or Lagos State, where he resides.

term member-elect to represent Owan Federal Constituency of Edo State in the Eighth assembly of the House of Reps. I hold a BSc Second Class Upper division in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and MSc in Accounting from the University of Lagos. I am a fellow of the prestigious Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. I am happily married and we are blessed with three grown up well established children and I am a Christian. I am a focused, courageous, determined, friendly and humble person who cherishes integrity in my entire relationship with people. My leadership experience is multifaceted I was the head of Internal Audit Department of Bendel State University with two campuses at Ekpoma and Abraka, which have today become two full fledged universities, namely Ambrose Ali and Delta States universities respectively, I was national chairman of Committee of Heads of Internal Audit Departments in Nigerian universities. I was an award winning bank manager and rose to the post of assistant controller in the bank before veering into politics in 1998. In was the pioneer deputy speaker of Edo State House of Assembly in this Fourth Republic and I served the full four-year term without being impeached thereby making me the only speaker or deputy speaker to have survived the four-year tenure in this dispensation to date in Edo State. I have been chairman of Owan-East Local Government Council and simultaneously the Edo State, chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria and a National Vice President of ALGON 2003 to 2007. I have been the Secretary to Edo State Government. In the House I am the deputy chairman of Constituency Outreach Committee and a member of key committees such as public accounts, finance, banking and currency, housing and Niger Delta Affairs. I was also a member of the special committee on selection at inception in 2011. I have been a vibrant activist in these committees and irrepressible advocate of honesty, integrity and accountability in the house, ministries and agencies. So tell us your agenda for the Eighth Assembly? When I become the speaker, by the grace of God and the choice of all members-elect, I will be committed to transparency and anti corruption in governance in general and in the house in particular. I will ensure prudent management of resources and work for overall good governance in Nigeria. I will doggedly defend and preserve the respect and integrity of the legislature in Nigeria.

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Why Buhari will revisit Jonathan’s power privatisation Villa Notes emmyanule@yahoo.com

Anule Emmanuel

ne major reform that would have endeared the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan to Nigerians so easily and even earned him a second term in the just concluded presidential election is the privatisation of the power sector. If the programme had achieved relative stability of power, his re-election would have been a foregone conclusion. A major leap in the amount of electricity delivered across the country to end users would have elicited great support from the electorate and businessmen alike. As it is now, it is difficult to categorically assert that any meaningful progress has been made in the sector, the successful sale of power assets and unbundling of the Nigeria Electric Power Authority, notwithstanding. The volume of electricity availability for use by the citizens remains abysmally low. From an ambitious target of 20, 000 mega watts which the Federal Government had hoped to achieve with the sale of power assets to private companies at least by 2020, electricity generation presently hovers around a meager 2,800MW as confirmed by the Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo from a recent peak of about 4,500MW, the lowest in nearly a year.

Why government continues to blame the situation on the activities of vandals through bursting of gas pipelines and other forms of vandalism, Nigerians have expressed concern whether in itself, the entire process of privatisation in the power sector has not been a scam. Billions of task payers money is also constantly being invested in the sector without the desired result. But, it is certain that prior to the enactment of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act in 2005, the Federal Government was responsible for policy formulation, regulation, operation, and investment in the Nigeria’s power sector. Regulation of the sector was done through the Federal Ministry of Power with operations through the National Electric Power Authority, responsible for power generation, transmission and distribution. As a step to address the twin issues of NEPA’s poor operational and financial performance, the government amended the then prevailing laws (Electricity and NEPA Acts) in 1998 to remove NEPA’s monopoly and encourage private sector participation. The amendments, however, were not far-reaching. This further informed Federal Government of the need to undertake holistic policy, legal and regulatory reforms. The National Electric Power Policy, 2001, specifies the reform agenda, while EPSRA provides the legal basis for the unbundling of NEPA, the formation of successor companies and the privatisation of the latter. EPSRA also provides for the development of a competitive electricity market, the establishment of a dedicated regulatory

‘Clerics seeking favours from politicians are like Judas’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 3

In line with leakage in federal revenue, there is a proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution to reposition the principal officers of the National Assembly for life pension. In the light of the corruption you mentioned, what would you say about this? I know that for a long time, there have been a lot of complaints about the amount of the money that goes to the National Assembly and the amount of money controlled by the executive and the judiciary. For a long time, there has been always an issue that a high percentage of the national budget goes to recurrent expenditure. That is, taking care of only a tiny minority of the people. I think it’s only right if the overhead cost, in the terms of government expenditure, is cut down and drastically reduced. One is hoping that, with the simplicity of the incoming president, he will provide leverage and everything will begin to normalise. A good chunk of our revenue is going to salaries and other emoluments, and disengagement allowances of men and women in these two arms of government. If a greater part of government revenue is still going to the National Assembly then, there is something very wrong with the way we think and allocate resources. We should allocate more resources to education, where the future of the country lies. Investment in our education means repositioning those who will lead the country in the near future. As far as we have voted money for physical infrastructure, like roads and good facilities, life will be made much easier for the people and the country will thrive. In setting a business agenda for the President-elect, what economic reforms would you like to see, especially on the free fall of the naira? The fact is that there are people who have better advice on this, who are the professionals. But one thing I know is that the

Nigerian economy, which depends mostly on oil, needs to be diversified. There is absolutely no doubt about it. We need to be able to go back to those areas that we have neglected over the years and this will help to create more confidence, both in government and in the people. The price of oil went down and the country became so vulnerable that everybody was now afraid that we won’t be able to meet with the obligations of paying salaries, not to talk of capital expenses. It makes it a completely rational thing that we should not put all our eggs in one basket. We need to really go all out to expand our revenue base. That is one area I hope that the new government will pay attention to. Again, in the oil sector, we have heard of corruption that reigns there, which made it impossible for such resources to be used for the development of the country. The corruption has made these resources to go into few private pockets, denying the country meaningful development. I was glad to hear that the President-elect said he would probe further into the missing $20 billion oil money. If he does this, such a level of confidence in the economy would bring about foreign investors and the economy will survive. I believe we cannot compromise on the matter of corruption. Do you advocate a probe of corrupt public officials in the country? It’s a good thing to do but the fear is that when such a thing is being followed, a committee will be set up and they will write their report. This will be the last thing you will ever hear of such a probe panel. It’s important that investigations are made and pursued to a logical conclusion. If you have a situation in which nothing happens, the prevalent culture of impunity in the country will continue to get perfect in people and people will feel that no matter what they do, they will get away with it. That naturally sets the hands of the clock back and we hope the new government will pursue this to a logical end.

body and the establishment of a rural electrification agency. Thereafter, the Federal Government established the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN – the initial holding company) and subsequently unbundled it into eighteen (18) successor companies. The investors have since taken control with yet the desired result of power being made available to Nigerians. The approval penultimate week, of a draft national policy on renewable energy and energy efficiency for the country by the Federal Executive Council, is one step which analysts believed would long have been pursued by government to tackle the country’s power challenge. There is no doubting the fact that Nigeria is blessed with hydro, solar, wind and other sources of energy which have not been explored. As explained by Nebo, the whole idea of the new policy is to promote energy efficiency and increase access to renewable energy mix, while supporting global efforts towards green economies and addressing climate change problems.

It has to beam its searchlight on these firms that are not performing despite the huge funds that have been committed to encourage them to work

The concern, however, is that approving this policy at the time that the administration is winding up, is ill-timed considering the trend in Nigeria about reversal or abandonment of predecessors policies? Unfortunately too, as good as the energy policy appears as presented, it needs to be tested before it is packaged as a bill for enactment into law. For now, it remains a mere pronouncement by government. One wonders whether the current administration will able to give the political will and push the bureaucracy to get it started before President Jonathan leaves on May 29. What is important now is that the companies, DISCOs and GENCOs as well as the bulk purchaser, the Transmission Company of Nigeria, must wake up to their responsibilities and provide electricity to Nigerians. They must stop the excuses that often follow their inability to deliver. It is obvious that government has created an enabling environment for them to perform with high tariff being paid by consumers and several favourable conditions. Although, the outgoing government of President Jonathan has cautioned the incoming administration not to temper with the privatisation programme, it has to beam its searchlight on these firms that are not performing despite the huge funds that have been committed to encourage them to work. Nigerians have surely demonstrated great patience and confidence, putting up often with darkness, noisy power generating sets, the related pollution and the daily disruption in their lives and therefore desire better days ahead from improvements in the power sector.

Fashola, Amosun commend Mbu for professionalism C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 7

but I can tell you that Mbu is hardworking and committed to his duties. So I am not surprised that he has been inducted to this hall of fame,” he said. In a brief remark at the occasion, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in Charge of Marine, Mrs. Kalafite Adeyemi, who led the Lagos State Commissioners of Police, Kayode Aderanti, his counterpart in Marine Police Command, Mrs. Hilda Harrison and Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Dorothy Gimba, described Mbu as a professional policeman who is committed to the welfare and dignity of his officers and men. The Chairman of the occasion and the traditional ruler Eleme in rivers State, His Royal Highness Appolus Chu, the the Egbere Emere Okori of Eleme, said the award showed that those in places of authority were being monitored, urging them to always do their best while in service. Chu noted that his interaction with Mbu through the years left him with the impression that he is a thorough-bred police office of proven integrity and commitment to serving his fatherland with dedication and mission in order to leave behind remarkable footprints in the sand of time. Justifying the induction, National Chairman, CRAN, Comrade Christopher Oji, said in contrary with the perception created of Mbu, the AIG “is an officer who left behind lots giant strides in Oyo, Rivers State and Federal Capital Territory commands where he had served in the past four years.” He listed over 60 projects and sterling achievements of Mbu which include the renovation of over 20 armoured personnel carriers in the states, several vehicles as well as remodeling of state command headquarters and commissioner of police quarters. In particular, he said Mbu was honoured

for exhibiting professionalism during the 2015 elections contrary to negative impression by many who believed that Mbu was posted to Zone 2 to carry out the agenda of some highly placed individuals during the elections, noting that the outcome of it all proved critics wrong. Expressing gratitude over the award, Mbu said he will defend his action at any time, because the police have always been singled out for vilification even by criminal to divert attention and make police officers the expendables. He referred to an experience in Nasarawa Police Command when a gang of armed robbers confessed that they implicated a divisional police officer to divert attention from the robbery case for which they were arrested. “We conducted elections in Lagos and Ogun states and it turned out to be the best of its kind. I thank all my commissioners, area commanders, DPOs, senior and junior officers for an excellent job. I have also written to these policemen to thank them for their conducts during the elections. After the elections, nobody, not even the All Progressives Congress or People Democratic Party called us to say thank you. They are still accusing us of bias. APC said we supported PDP and PDP said we supported APC, but we are ready to testify that we conducted the best elections in Lagos and Ogun states. If there was any conspiracy, any stealing of voter’s papers, it is in between them and their polling agents, not the police! We did very well!’’ The AIG, however, urged police authorities to always stand by their officers vilified in the course of duties, stressing that many people passed judgment against policemen without investigating the complaints. Mbu commended CRAN for the recognition, pointing out that the press was one group he never had a close relationship with due to their many negative write up against him.

Life SUNDAY

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Dame Abimbola Fashola

I hardly saw my husband for eight years As the chairperson of the Committee of Wives of the Lagos State Officials, how has it been, pioneering the affairs of the outfit? It has been wonderful. It is something for which I give God glory. It is a big challenge when I think about sourcing funds for us to execute our projects. It has been a wonderful time; a time well-spent and every blessed day one just remember to thank God for putting one there.

Dame Abimbola Fashola is one woman many describe as humility personified. In this interview with MURITALA AYINLA, she reveals her love story with Governor Babatunde Fashola, what she misses as First Lady and sundry issues

Well, I’m envious of those who see their husbands regularly. But I know that. He had already told me that for eight years, this is what I would be doing. It was a bit tough initially

What are the high points of the organisation? What is your major achievement as the chairperson? I guess it is completing the Retirement Villa, because we had to commit funds from at least three conferences into completing the COWLSO Retirement Villa, so that is the high point of it. You know that not knowing whether you will be able finish it or not, or even beginning at all when we saw the budget can be very scary. That was the high point.

the mails that I get at the office, I read through and that is what inspires me on what next to do. It is what really happens in the society that determines what I do.

What are your challenging moments as the First Lady of Lagos State, especially as the chairperson of the organisation? Like I said earlier, sourcing funds, because every year, we have to think of a catchy theme the theme that people will believe in and want to pay for and listen to. And for our sponsors, we must be on top of our game to retain their belief in us and continue to be with us through the eight years. So, it was always challenging when we come to deliberate. And after every conference, we get feedback, we read through. We pick interesting topics and get capable speakers. That was one of the challenges. How were you able to cope with Governor Fashola, given his nature and passion for state functions? Well, I have already known that for eight years, he has a calling and all I need to do is to support him. And I know that most of the things that I have done, left to my husband, he doesn’t want me to be doing them. He believes that I should keep the home front. And for as long as he sees that I am able to manage that, you known being a woman is multi-tasking. So, we were able to do this. When you are suppose to be with the children, you are there. When you are suppose to be in the school, you are there. When you are meant to do service for the state like supporting the ministries and agencies, you are there. I really didn’t have problem and I guess God has been good to me. Well I ‘m envious of those who see their husbands regularly, but I know that, he had already told me that for eight years, this is what I would be doing. It was a bit tough initially. You know, when you are used to sitting down and chatting every evening

For the women project, will you look back and say you‘ve done well? Well, I think I should not be assessing myself. It is actually wrong for me to do so but I know I have done the bit that God has supported me to do. You once spoke passionately about violence against women and children. Do you still feel bad about these social problems? God has always been the driver in most of the things that I do. I don’t believe that there is anyone God has created on earth to go through pains and that is why everywhere that I am, I must bring peace, love and smile to the faces of everyone around me. So I deeply believe in that and that is something I will always work against.

Gov. Fashola and wife, Abimbola

when he comes back home, asking each other: ‘How was your day and on all that. That has not happened in a long while. So, I am looking forward to that. What was your guiding principle? Always learning to prioritise. You can’t be at every place at every time. You need to prioritise you activities and chose which

one is most important for any particular day. There is no doubt that you have passion for women and children. Will you say that after eight years, you have been able to achieve your aims and objectives? One, I am someone who doesn’t really say this what I ‘m setting out to do but it depends on the function that I attend and

As First Lady of the state with estimated 21 million residents, when you look back after June 1 this year, what will you say that you and your husband have been able to achieve that gladdens your heart - just one thing? I wish I am someone who thinks like that. You know what is past is past. I am moving on to new things and that is what I am looking forward to. You know I have an NGO. I have not been there for my NGO in the last eight years. So now I am going to face my NGO and take it to greater heights. I don’t look at the past and say ‘oh! What has happened?’ because it makes you think oh! If I have done it this way or that. I don’t like to bother about the past because I can’t amend it. But I can always think of what the future holds for me. I don’t look back. People talk about your humility, judging by your relationship with people despite beCONTINUED ON PAGE 42

42 CONTINUED FR O M PAGE 41

ing the wife of Governor Fashola. Can you tell us the secret of your humility? There is no secret. I believe that it is who you are. I believe in being myself and that is really who I am inside and outside the house. And those who have known me before my husband became governor of Lagos State know that anywhere I am must bubble with life. I can’t be in place that is quiet. That is not me; there must be something wrong for me to do that. It is either I am not comfortable with the environment or I don’t have like minds around me. I guess it is my nature; it is the way I was brought up. I always tell parents to always radiate love and show love to their children so that wherever they in the world, they are expressing love as well. I have parents who brought me up with love. I grew up in a place where we have so many people from different tribes. So, I’m comfortable anywhere I find myself. That’s who I am. Beyond May 29, 2015, what is your aspiration precisely? I will continue with my NGO. You know my NGO is about impacting positively on the lives of the youths. You know when we were trying to find a name for the NGO, we sat down with my working committee to determine what area could be easily acceptable, what name people would always remember and then I came up with the world LEARN. I couldn’t give any other name for “L.” So, “L” represents “Lagos.” So, we got the approval from the Attorney-General of the state to use Lagos. But looking at it now, because of people who come from outside Lagos to partake in the summer school, people are asking us to replicate the programme in their states. Hence, I have changed the ‘Lagos’ in the NGO’s name to represent “Leadership.” This is exactly what we are doing - empowering the youths to be greater and positive leaders. This is because democracy doesn’t guarantee good governance; it is only when you have great leaders that you will have good governance. So, let us help them to be great leaders. Let’s catch them young so that when they are still in school, they are bold to determine what skills they have passion for and then to build on that Being the First Lady, what has it cost you to be in the limelight? It has cost me my ‘booli’ (roasted plantain). I can’t just park and say ‘get me a roasted plantain and corn.’ I like to eat roasted corn and ‘ube’ (pears). So you can’t just stop and buy those things anymore. It also costs me my going out freely. This is because now everybody identifies me. In the first four years of Governor Fashola, I could sneak out but in the last four years people always say ‘oh! This is Abimbola Fashola,’ and I would tell them ‘it is not Mrs. Fashola, and that people say we look alike,’ but they will follow me until they are convinced that it is me. So, being the First Lady costs me my public appearance. In all, what has been your highest point? Doing things like commissioning school projects for pupils and other things that positively touch lives, impacting on lives and making sure I put smiles on faces. Any regrets or challenges? It is well. How did you meet Governor Fashola? That is no news again now. It was my father in-law that introduced me to his son at my friend’s engagement party and that was how we started it all. I was serving everyone and I just walked in freely, doing my bit as Abimbola and then he just called me and said: ‘Are you married? And I said: “No! The man told me ‘I have a son, he would soon come in. When he comes I will introduce you to him’ and that was it. What is your advice to women like you? We should always be ourselves. We

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Life

‘I miss buying roasted plantain, pear’ It has cost me my “booli” (roasted plantain). I can’t just park and say get me a roasted plantain and corn. I like to eat roasted corn and “ube” (pears). So you can’t just stop and buy those things anymore

should always keep our husbands on their toes with prayers. Usually when our husbands have such roles, our own duty is to be supportive to them. So that when things are not really working, we should seek the face of God to be able to approach them. It is not all men that like criticism-either positive or negative ones. It is not all men, but I thank God for the friend I have. He is my husband and listens when I say this is what is happening and this is what people are saying and all that. We should always hand them over to God, because it is God and God that put them there will always do the right thing for them if they seek His face. We should keep contributing positively to nation building. We should do the right thing every second of our lives, not just do it now, when people are around but also when they are not around we do another thing. Then, we should learn to keep our environment clean. I notice these days that we have obesity among children. We need to go back to the basics. Let us give them healthy foods; let’s do away with all these sweet things for now. I’m trying to manage my own and that of my children too. So, let’s always be positive because negativity will take us to nowhere, rather it will destroy us. So we should work in unity. Anything that is good, let’s support. If the government is doing anything, let’s support it. Like I always tell people, you don’t need a title to be a leader and you do not need a title to do great things in life. Contribute to your own community and see how it is going to transform the country itself. You are leaving legacies for your successor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode. What advice will you offer her? Firstly, she should be herself. Number two, she should look up to God always. She should do all those things that are passionate to her and not what the society dictates for her because the society doesn’t own her life; you will be accountable for your life. So, you should always determine what the society will see and not what they bring to you. You will account for whatever you do while you were there. But don’t you go on vacation? That I don’t know about because going on vacation with your husband is not really the best. I always say it the way it is. Two days into a vacation and you are tired; everybody wants to mind their business. He won’t let you go shopping. I will want to do shopping; that is how I do my vacation. You won’t be able to carry any load. So, why do I want to go on vacation with him? But that will come when God says it will come. But being the wife of Governor Fashola really is God’s blessing. It’s God’s design I guess when God says this is what you will do, He gives you that power and strength to withstand whatever comes your way and I think this is what it is. I am someone who believes in God. I love God and I fear God. I cast everything upon him. If anything comes my way like a challenge, I tell God. This is not me and it is not from me.

Mrs.Fashola

If you are saying it is you or from you, you have to carry your problem. I challenge God every blessed day. I am not afraid to challenge Him. He is my creator. But your passion for public service, few days to the end of your husband’s administration, you are still commissioning projects like your husband? Well, I guess it is because we have always been hard working. I worked with the British Council for 19 years. We resumed at 7:30am to close officially at 4pm. And I don’t leave office until 10pm. That is the way I worked because I had a lot of tasks to do. I was in charge of the examination. I was conducting 10,000 exams in a year. I had to be on my toes. I needed to do the right thing because the English people would not take any excuse. And when something went wrong you must be ready to explain it. I was always on top of my job. I do not like people faulting me. If there is anything I cannot do, I would tell you straight the moment you come to me. I don’t know how to say let us see. No, no! I will tell you the way it is. I guess for Governor Fashola, coming from law background- he had his own law firm where he was working. So, we have both been very hard working and I think that is why we can’t sit down and say this is what I want to do today. If I am resting and I am not going out, I will be opening cupboards and all, tidying up things doing things that I’m ordinarily suppose to do. I must find something to do. I’m a restless spirit. I can’t sit. What are other things being Governor

Fashola’s wife cost you? I don’t sit with him but I wait for him. We don’t go to bed until after 4am or 5pm sometimes. When I ‘m tired he knows that I am tired. If I can’t wait for him I go to bed until after 3am. Sometimes I don’t even. So, my women know when I don’t sleep I tell them. Sometimes I tell them that I slept around 5 am or at 7am and I have to wake up at 10. You know duty calls. I have to support him. I thank God for giving me that energy to be able to support him. What was your childhood like? Beautiful. Are you from Lagos? I’m not from Lagos o! But I have lived all my life in Lagos. I’m from Oyo State, Ibadan, but I have lived all my life in Lagos. I only spent three years in Ibadan when I went to Yejide Girls Grammar School. I started my secondary school in Lagos and I finished it in Ibadan. So, all my life I have lived it in Lagos. I don’t even know Ibadan very well. What is your parting shot for women? My parting shot is that let’s be the best that we can be as women. Let’s love every child around us. Let’s always say the truth to them. Let’s appreciate them when they do good things. Let’s commend them, let’s appreciate and praise them. And when they do wrong things, let’s scold them so that they can be great leaders. We must always learn to say the truth as women and help our children to become the best. We must support every woman who is doing positive and great thing in life.

A major aspect of the Culottes that has us loving it is its high waist â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this makes it easier to rock with a crop top. They provide just enough coverage and exposure to balance your outfit out and still look chic.

Rock it with a Crop top This is your best chance to get your shoes on display! Culottes are usually high up to your knees, so gives you ample room to show off your favourite shoes.

Show off legs in lovely shoes

Try adding some texture, colour and prints to your look. Play with colours and patterns.

Add some colour, texture & print

You can wear culottes with a chambray top and denim for that laid back girl-wanna-have fun-look.

For a casual look on Friday

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

The burgundy suit fashion

Vanessa Okwara

ince men took the colour revolution to a whole new level by enlivening their wardrobe with hitherto ‘feminine’ brights, burgundy has been adopted as a statement colour by men with style. Capable of making a statement both dressed up and down, the burgundy suit is versatile and stylish. It looks regal, confident, mature and flatters just about any skin tone. As an option, it still has a long way to go before it becomes an everyday choice, but it readily serves as a way of standing out and making a statement without straying too far from the norm. Most commonly associated with wine colour, men have begun to accept this colour of suit as a style statement for special occasions. Burgundy pairs well with other on-trend colours and a variety of different patterns, meaning it can easily be adapted to suit your own personal style. Perhaps, you’d prefer to properly shake things up this season? If so, why not take the plunge with a burgundy suit or blazer? Single or double-breasted burgundy suits and jackets are advisable for formal occasions.

Although a burgundy suit is not suitable for the corporate world or a board meeting, it will undoubtedly inject new life into your evening wear wardrobe. Burgundy is also ideal colour for a wedding, either as the groom, groomsmen or just attending as a friend of the couple. Burgundy suit can be worn on any occasion and will take you from day to night and everywhere in between. If you do go down this statement route, just be sure to keep the rest of your outfit firmly on the straight and narrow with a white shirt, black tie, classy shoes and pocket square for a minimal effort with maximum impact. Brown, burgundy or black shoes will all work well with Burgundy suit. You can decide to wear burgundy suit (i.e. the blazer or the trousers) separately. Wearing tailored pieces on their own gives you the freedom to incorporate them with other pieces from your wardrobe. Wear a burgundy blazer for a smart-weekend look with minimal effort. Burgundy blazers can also be worn with t-shirts and bright coloured trousers. Show off your stylish side while maintaining your manly edge by wearing a burgundy suit for a stylish, sharp and preppy look.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Body&Soul

Don’t marry for the wrong reasons

hat is your true motive for being in the relationship you are in right now? What were your true reasons for marrying that man or woman? Are those reasons playing out the way you discerned they would -in good or in bad fate? You see, why I ask these questions is because I have come to understand that people enter into relationships with a lot of ideals and reasons and a good percentage of them do not have LOVE on top of their list. A lot of people are suffering in bad marriages today because they married for the wrong reasons. You see, bad marriages don’t just happen to bad people. They mostly happen to good people who are not good for each other. A bad marriage is an off shoot of wrong choices made while in courtship and these choices are made based on wrong reasons for getting married. In this part of the world, we see a lot of marriages contracted between two people that have no business being together except for the fact that their parents think marriage between their children will seal a business deal or bring more wealth into their homes. I’m not saying that most of these arranged marriages have not worked out over time, yet for some, it has become a living hell as the two people involved had no business staying together from the beginning. They only end up hurting each other and leaving a legacy of hate and bitterness for their children to inherit. So I ask again, what are your real reasons for being in the relationship you are in right now? Do you truly love your partner in the true sense of the word or are you there for financial gratification?

CONNECT NG vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com Women are mostly culprits when it comes to marrying a man for the wrong reasons and they are also the ones who suffer the most when the consequences come to light. These reasons could stem from external pressure from their friends and family, loneliness or financial security. Funmilola’s situation is a typical case of a lady who married a man she hardly knew for the very wrong reasons. She was approaching her mid-thirties and felt her maternal clock was ticking rather fast towards menopause. So she decided to take her fate into her own hands by marrying a man she didn’t love with the hope that she will learn to love him inside the marriage. While in courtship, she saw some character flaws she didn’t like about him such as his drinking and smoking habits but she drew a blind eye to all these with the mindset that she will change him. She reasoned it was not a bad deal since she will be getting financial security and putting an end to her lonely life. Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out as she envisioned. When they got married, her husband’s drinking problem graduated to the extent that he beats her up anytime he got drunk and she dared scold him about it. The last straw was when

he beat her up mercilessly one night he came home drunk and she was six months pregnant at the time. This incident landed her in the hospital and of course, she lost the baby due to complications. Right now her marriage is a living hell and she’s contemplating whether to file in for a divorce or to continue in this charade of a marriage. Men also find themselves marrying a woman for the very wrong reasons. Most men get so bowled over by a woman’s

You see, bad marriages don’t just happen to bad people. They mostly happen to good people who are not good for each other. A bad marriage is an off shoot of wrong choices made while in courtship and these choices are made based on wrong reasons for getting married

physical beauty and sexual prowess that they don’t think straight until they’ve made a commitment to a woman who could be best described as cousin to the proverbial Jezebel. Such women enter into a man’s life like a tornado; destroying every good thing in sight including the peaceful co-existence that may have been existing in that man’s life and family before she entered into it. In any of the cases described above, I can bet you that their instincts sounded off the alarm about the kind of person they were dealing with right from the beginning, but they failed to pay attention to their misgivings. If you have been ignoring those warning signals or pushing them aside, STOP! Take a moment to examine those feelings and ask yourself if you truly want to be committed to someone who causes you so much discomfort. That way, you can save yourself as well as your partner the future pain of marrying someone you will only end up being miserable with. So before you contemplate getting married, here is a checklist to help you determine if you are marrying for the wrong reasons: Don’t marry for sex; Don’t marry because you are of age; Don’t marry because you are getting old; Don’t marry because you are lonely; Don’t marry because you need someone to support you financially; Don’t marry because you mistakenly got pregnant; Don’t marry because you don’t want to lose the person; Don’t marry because of family pressures; Don’t marry because you like the idea of marriage and admire every wedding gown you see and don’t marry because all your friends are getting married. •Send your views to the email above!

Reclaiming the beauty of photography

f there is one art that has suffered more than others from the technological invasion of our social space, it has to be photography. No other time in history has there been that many photographers (or is it ‘selfiers’?) parading the streets and snapping away. I cannot even begin to attempt crunching the data of photographs taken daily and uploaded on social media. What this mean is that when someone comes to you and introduce him/herself as a ‘professional photographer’, you either ignore them as lazy heads who should get a life and a real job or you just move on without acknowledging them. However, a recent festival of photography in my neck of the wood, Peterborough, Ontario, seemingly restored my faith in the art of photography and the storytelling capabilities that it possesses and you can blame my oral background for that. I was particularly drawn to the exhibition by Julie Gagne, a Fanshawe College, London-trained photographer and teacher who was exhibiting jointly with Javier Fonruge. My being drawn to the exhibition was no accident as I had met Julie earlier through Hugh Hodges, my supervisor and a man more knowledgeable about Nigerian literature than most Nigerian academic I have met. At the time, while Julie was photographing members of my class, I was drawn to her attention for details, to position and how light plays a big magical role in how good a picture turns out. That was also the point when I was first introduced to her desire for a narrative in a picture. She wanted the class to do something different and quirky, go

against the norm and be creative with the final product. She gave the class moustaches and described a preferred posture; I wondered at the time what a creative mind she must have to still pay so much attention to details in the photographing of scholars. Therefore, with this introduction, I knew I was about to engage in some creative conversation with Julie Gagne through her photographs at the exhibition and boy, I was not disappointed. The photos were all good and looked like normal photographs at first look -a dingy motel with a rundown fuel station, cane chairs against a backdrop of a sleepy hotel in a lonely desert -just the other crazy arty stuff in a photograph but then when I looked again, deeper understanding engulfed me and she

confirmed my suspicion. Julie told me that some of the pictures were actual impositions. She had taken two totally unrelated pictures and interspersed them to create what I can only described as photographic storytelling genius. With a focus on memory and nostalgia, Julie merged the present with the past to create that happy place we all long for, in the sky or on the ground, and then make us question if we really know what that happy place is. There is even a framed picture of an embossed atlas with various places a man may have visited, and yet will struggle to pick one as where he had the most fun; or perhaps, he had different kinds of fun and so does not even have a basis for the selection. And it seems these are the things that Julie Gagne wanted to accomplish with

The exhibition in many ways also repositioned, at least from my perspective, the artistic nature of photography and reminded (am I nostalgic already?) us all of the beautiful thing that photography was before every phone became a camera

the exhibition as she wrote on the program, ‘I am drawn to images that evoke an immediate but equivocal response, places that seem to be suspended between nostalgia and novelty, objects stamped with personal and collective memory. They’re all part of a vivid world I am trying to reconstruct, a world at once instantly and reassuringly familiar and oddly out of reach’. The exhibition in many ways also repositioned, at least from my perspective, the artistic nature of photography and reminded (am I nostalgic already?) us all of the beautiful thing that photography was before every phone became a camera. No one walks into a phone shop and look at the communication functions of the phone, instead, what you hear now is how many pixels are in the phone? How sharp are the images?’. Those were the conversation you hear in a photo shop in times past but not anymore. It seems everyone is a photographer and yet they miss the true meaning of a photograph, the memories and the narratives evoked from sharing such memories with friends. However, with Julie Gagne, I know that photography is still that endearing art form that can bring joy to people and still provoke meaningful discussion around our existence and relationship with our immediate environment. At least, Toyin Sokefun abandoned her music career at its peak to pursue a career in photography; such is the power of the medium. Julie Gagne is also teaching people to build appreciation for the art as she teaches at Trent University. Perhaps, it is time to look in your closet for that discarded Polaroid.

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul with

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Hakeem

Lagos socialites mourn Hakeem Shodehinde

he ever bubbling Lagos social is yet to come to terms with the loss few days ago of one of its movers and shakers, Hakeem Shodehinde. Known as the king of night life, Hakeem was the owner of upscale and frontline night club on Victoria Island, Movida. The General, as the stoutly built dude was called by admirers, was early last year diagnosed with renal failure. Expectedly, he swung into action by seeking treatment. It was indeed a battle to save his life but he scaled through, bounced back to life and regained his huge frame which had gone lean and frail. It was believed that the renal ailment was caused by alcohol and cigarettes. Towards the end of last year, his health began to fail him again and he shut his club down to seek medical attention. He travelled abroad to seek the best treatment but upon his return, his condition deteriorated. He went off the public space and faced his health challenges in solitude. The entire Lagos social scene woke up to the shocking news that Movida Daddy had passed on in the early hours of May 10. By now, Hakeem would have been committed to mother earth after a service of honour and internment on Friday. In his hey days, young Hakeem took an interest in nightclub business and worked and learnt the ropes at different clubs -from Jabita to a few others on the Mainland. Thereafter, he moved to the Island where luck smiled on him and he made his fortunes. On the heels of his expertise in the nightclub business, Hakeem earned himself the nickname, ‘The General.’ Amiable, accommodating and generous Hakeem, through his exploits at various clubs he operated at different times, had become so influential and his connections were beyond the business of night life. Hakeem, a cousin to Joseph Yobo, had a daughter, Mitchelle, from his girlfriend while his celebrated society marriage to Chioma was shortlived and produced no child. With a penchant for living life to the fullest in opulence, he ran popular nightclubs on the Island that included Extreme, Reloaded, Insomnia and the last one, Movida.

Edwin Clark withdraws into shell

y virtue of his antecedents, he had grown in status to the point where his voice counts in the scheme of things. As an Ijaw leader, his position and personality, however, became more pronounced when his kins-

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Femi Kuti, Funke reunite I

t will be recalled how the once blissful marriage of Afrobeat singer, Femi Kuti, and his estranged wife, Funke, hit the rocks some years ago over allegations of infidelity against the wife. Some years after they went their separate ways, tales have started flying about that they may be looking at the possibility of reconciling. That is if information at our disposal is anything to go by. While Funke has not been pinned to any man, Femi got his fingers burnt when he reportedly discovered that he was not the father of some of the children one of his women presented as his. Reliable sources further revealed that another factor that makes the speculated reconciliation likely is their son, Made. The boy has remained a strong link between them besides the fact that the estranged couple may still be nursing genuine feelings for each other. Pressure from concerned family members and friends is said to be another compelling reason for the speculated come back. Also, Yeni, the elder sister of Femi, who was believed to have played a role in Funke’s exit, may have also consented to her brother giving her another chance.

man, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, became Nigeria’s president in May 2010. His influence on the p re s i d e n t as well as in the scheme of things could Clark not be waved aside. During the buildup to the presidential election, in which Jonathan sought re-election, Clark was in the forefront of those rooting for the return of Jonathan. His stake and interest were not limited to Jonathan’s re-election bid as his wife, Dr Bisola Sodipo Clark, ran for the Ogun Central Senatorial District seat. Many had thought his Ogun State-born wife was going to be victorious at the poll by the virtue of his popularity. With the elections come and gone, the Ijaw leader does not only have one loss to count as Jonathan and Bisola lost. As a consequence, the former federal information commissioner has withdrawn into his shell, probably to nurse his wounds as little or nothing has been heard of him since his party gallantly lost at the polls.

Ambode takes time off

ormer Accountant-General of Lagos State, Akinwumi Ambode, may have become the governor-elect of the state but there is no doubt that the journey to the Promised Land was filled with thorns and obstacles. Despite being seen as the choice of the kingmakers, rotund Ambode did not have it easy securing the Abode governorship ticket as he went through a series of challenges that ranged from state of origin scandal to the gangup by other governorship aspirants. Scaling through that stage, his ambition was faced with Abuja’s determination to ‘capture’ Lagos. While the All Progressives Congress candidate was contending with how to defeat his Peoples Democratic Party rival, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, made some controversial utterances that appeared to pitch Ambode against the Igbos. Having gone through all the troubles and victory recorded on April 11, 2015, the brilliant governor-elect, Celeb Lounge was informed, flew out of the country to cool

off and to revitalise his health. He’s expected to return any moment soon.

Elvina Ibru back to familiar terrain

ntil about one year ago, when Elvina, the famous daughter of multibillionaire, Olorogun Michael Ibru, deElvina buted on radio, many had ignorantly seen her as one of the children of the rich who do nothing but live in the opulence and wealth of their parents. As calm as the girl next door, pretty Elvina does not make a noise about her dealings. The down to earth Elvina has always had her hands in a lot of businesses that make her laugh to the bank. Major among them are production and art. With a background in the electronic media back in her school days overseas, Elvina was persuaded to come on radio by those who know her ability. Interestingly, she became an instant success. Barely one year after getting on board Classic FM, Elvina has become one of

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Body&Soul

Thinking

the most popular listened to On Air Personalities, especially in the evening time belt she operates. While she has been lauded for her contributions to the world of art, she has equally been nominated for awards as a radio presenter. Elvina, who is a song writer, has further returned to her familiar terrain which is acting. Having taken part in movies in the past among which are End Time, by Zik Zulu, she recently returned to acting through a stage performance. Elvina alongside Bimbo Akintola, Kate Henshaw and Joke Silva took part in the widely accepted stage performance themed, Hear Word, which was created by Ifeoma Fafunwa to advocate for gender equality.

Mohammed Bala remains loyal

he popular saying t h a t success has many friends while the reverse is the case for failure, aptly Mohammed describes the events that have been unfolding since the 2015 elections. While many members of the Peoples Democratic Party have moved over to the All Progressives Congress, individuals who lost at the polls have been licking their wounds. The situation is not different with outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan, who openly said he had been deserted by many of his friends. On that note, Celeb Lounge serves you information flying around about the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Mallam Bala Mohammed. According to the information, while friends and appointees are leaving the President in solitude, Bala, who is regarded as one of Jonathan’s most trusted ministers, is said to be upholding his loyalty to his boss, even in defeat. Bala, it was said, is most likely to return to the drawing board in his homestead as it is believed that Jonathan will do all in his power to see PDP bounce back in the 2019 elections. Meanwhile, Bala is said to be warming up to run for governor of Bauchi State come 2019.

Happy times for Biodun Shobanjo

jebu, Ogun State-born Biodun Shobanjo is generally referred to as the doyen of advertising in Nigeria. That obviously could have only been made possible on the heels of his exploits in that field which have put him ahead of many of his peers. However, such great heights are not attained overnight nor on a platter but through years of hard work, commitShobanjo ment and zeal. Shobanjo, the

Aloud

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chairman of Troyka Holdings with subsidiaries like Quadrant, Insight communications among others, according to information at our disposal, has reasons to be excited at the moment and as such, he’s in good mood. Dynamic and visionary Shobanjo, who was the CEO of Insight Communications for many years before stepping down not too long ago, was recently decorated with a recognition award in faraway United Kingdom for his outstanding strides in the marketing world.

Timi Alaibe in the news

resident Goodl u c k Jonathan’s ascendancy to the most coveted seat in the land, no doubt, Timi Alaibe brought to the fore a number of personalities from the South-South. Being in the c o n s c i o u s ness of the public, Timi Alaibe cannot be said to have come with the emergence of Jonathan, as he has from time been one of those flying the flag of that region. Alaibe, who hit the spotlight as the managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, is interested in becoming the governor of his home state, Bayelsa. His dream, however, has not found fertile ground to germinate, and that may have accounted for why he could not clinch the position in 2012 when he ran. Stylish and deep pocket Alaibe, on the heels of his ambition, is in the news again. The facts of the tale are still scanty, but feelers reaching us have it that he may have started considering giving the governorship seat another shot on the platform of the All Progressives Congress in the 2016 Bayelsa election.

Joko Oni’s undying passion

oko Oni needs no introduction, especially in the social circles where she has been able to make herself relevant and become a factor over the years. The socialite has a jewelry outlet known as Goldrush in Ikeja, Lagos. However, despite the fact that some of her peers with whom she has dominated the party scene are gradually relaxing, she is still sighted at different shindigs. Joko, who has become influential in her own right through her exploits on the social scene, was penultimate weekend spotted at a party in Ikeja. However, she shocked many at the party when she walked out of the event centre and made for a weather beaten Peugeot 307. Those who recognised her in the blue lace had expected her to drive in a wonder on wheels. The navy blue Peugeot had two colours, probably due Joko Oni to repairs.

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with Helen Paul

Be careful with that maid

have to be honest, maids play important roles in some homes, particularly when the woman of the house is a career person or the busy type –the service of a maid could be required to assist in doing some house chores. Yet, it is one of the most dangerous mistakes any family can make. A maid can make or mar any home, trust me. My plan was to write on something else this week, but I could not help than change my mind after the social media was awash with the news of three kids who were taken to an unknown destination by their parents’ new maid. According to the information I got on social media, the three kids are Aderemola Orekoya (11 months), Adedamola Orekoya (4 years) and Demola Orekoya (6 years). The maid was said to have been employed less than 48-hours before she took the children away. I hope that by the time you are reading this, they would have been found in Jesus name. The story of the Orekoyas is just one out of the countless ordeals people have passed through in the hands of maids or ‘house helps’. It is like different strokes for different folks. Unlike the Orekoyas, some people have been quite lucky that they didn’t suffer much before their maids are exposed, while some have learnt the hard way. Just like the Orekoyas. I will not blame people who have phobia for house helps –they have their genuine reasons. Sometimes last year, I watched the video of a particular maid who was maltreating and brutalising a little girl she was supposed to be taking care of. While growing up, I have heard series of tales of how housemaids initiate their master’s children into witchcraft and other terrible things. The case of maltreatment is most common, and in some cases, housemaids subject kids to sexual harassments and other vices when their parents are not around. It is only God that can save us. We have also seen cases of housemaids getting pregnant or snatching their madam’s husband. We have also seen and heard cases of housemaids conniving with armed robbers to rob their masters. The lists

of atrocities that have been committed by housemaids are endless. I have a maid too, and before the present one, I had fired many others. Nothing should be taken for granted when employing a housemaid. And there should be no sentiments or complacency when you realise that the housemaid is beginning to ‘grow wings.’ You must act fast! Let me quickly give you some tips that will help you in employing a good maid or maybe let you know who the maid you already employed is. 1: Endeavour to take your time when you want to employ a housemaid. Don’t be too much in a hurry. At least, this will give you the opportunity to make important findings about your prospective housemaids. 2: It would not be a bad idea to know where the maid had previously worked, and the circumstances that led to her exit. Family background and individual character will also be some good things to find out early enough. 3: Make the housemaid your friend and gist mate. Make her feel at home with you and she will unconsciously lead you into her past. You will get to know her real kind of person. Some people may feel it would be disrespectful to make friend with their housemaid, but trust me, it works like magic. 4: Always treat your housemaid well; the same way you would have treated her if she is your biological daughter or sibling. If she is happy, her chance of treating your wards nicely is on the high side. 5: Endeavour to find out if she is facing any challenges or going through some emotional stress. 6: Whenever you come back from work, always make it a point of duty to ascertain if your kid(s) are fine. You should know if they have had a challenging day.

While growing up, I have heard series of tales of how housemaids initiate their master’s children into witchcraft and other terrible things

Body&Soul

GLOBAL FASHION

China-inspired MET Ball 2015 Biwom Iklaki

he MET Ball is an annual fundraiser for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City. The event marks the opening of the fashion exhibit of the Costume Institute. Each year, there is a theme for the exhibition and the guests to the ball are also expected to honour this theme. This year, the theme was China: Through the Looking Glass and it was quite the exhibition yet! Celebrities did not disappoint as we saw a myriad of interpretations of this year’s theme ranging from the battle of the sheer garbs (Kim Kardashian, Beyonce and Jlo), to the futuristic looks of Sarah Jessica Parker’s head gear, this year’s MET ball was fun all the way. Georgia May Jagger in Gucci looked like a contemporary geisha, Karen Elson in Dolce and Gabbana Alto Moda looked like a Chinese ballerina princess complete with a gold headdress and sheer dress. Something weird would have been Cara Delevigne’s body art that looked like some form of l a c e work. T h e

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

colours of the evening were mostly red, gold, black and white; although Solange Knowles arrived the ball looking like she was wearing an underwater seascape in a short, 3D Giles Deacon number. Anne Hathaway blew us away in a hooded shiny gold dress by Ralph Lauren. Rihanna came in a Chartreuse embroidered fur cape with a train that was way over three feet long. Lorraine Schwartz took the record of the most celebrities wearing her jewels for the night (Kim Kardashian, Selena Gomez, Amal Clooney, Kate Hudson, Rita Ora, Fei Fei Sun), while Dakota Johnson had one of the most fun accessories in her doll pendant bag from Chanel.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Wine & Dine

Taste the Whites Ibukunoluwa Kayode

e all drink wine for different purposes, either for personal relaxation or party refreshment with family and friends. Whenever the need arises for wine that refreshes the palate, various options come to mind -red, white to pinks. Whenever there is a need for soft palate rejuvenation, white wine is one of the best options. The white grape wine is palate friendly, lushing the

taste bud with crispy and clean lingering undertone of natural flavour of green apple, pear and lime. White grapes have pleasing mineral qualities that give optimum balanced, smooth finish on the palate. Also, it is structured with an in-depth honey flavour and attractive rich aromas. White grapes are mostly grown in Germany, the Alsace region in France, the finger lake of New York alongside some parts of Australia and Washington State.

The white grape wine can be served both at formal and informal occasions. The whites usually have a flexible undertone of 1115 per cent ABV, which makes it healthy, balanced and palate friendly for moderate alcohol drinkers. This perfect indulgence hold good weight for variety of dishes ranging from continental to locals: spicy foods, barbeque grill, poultry and pork, sausage and meatier pastas.

Perfect fruit platter Biwom Iklaki

ruits have powers that you may not be able to comprehend even in your dreams. It is no secret that they have special nutrients that help our bodies immensely. Whether you love them, tolerate them or hate them outright, you must find a way to enjoy their delicious, juicy pulps. You could try the seasonal variety; chances are that when you see so many people eating them with so much relish, you may be encouraged to do same. Someone said that you begin eating with your eyes. This must explain the need for enticing presentations, not just for food, but fruits and vegetables alike. Perhaps, one hopes that seeing such a beautiful, mouthwatering array will get the hunger juices flowing for the bounty in sight. A few suggestions to get eating those fruits, especially the ones with antioxidant goodness are: Chop your favourite combinations into bite size pieces and chuck in a bowl with a dash of lemon, half and orange and refrigerate to enjoy on a hot day. • Rather than the citrus juice, you could opt for cream instead in your bowl of fruit. • You could also try chopping them into fun shapes (hearts and stars come to mind) with your cookie cutter and make a kebab of them. • Or as is the fad these days, make an elaborate creation of them to work as centerpieces to fit into themes at events like weddings, baby showers, etc.

Body&Soul

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Kidnapping of Snow White

n one kingdom on our planet, living in peace and harmony, were Snow White and the seven dwarves. One day, some ruffians appeared and kidnapped Snow White, leaving a note that said:

“Give us 100 million dollars if you want to see Snow White again. Signed: The Evil Witch.” When the seven dwarves arrived home, they were very concerned, not just because Snow White had been kidnapped, but also because nobody would cook for them, or clean the house while they were working. So they hastily rushed to the police. When they arrived, they were sent to talk to the team which specialized in combating kidnapping. The team was made up of Little Red Riding Hood, the leader who had mental powers; Cinderella, who was responsible for team organisation and computer systems and Pinocchio, who was a ninja expert in martial arts. During the investigation, Little Red Riding Hood used her mental powers to locate the place where Snow White was locked up. Cinderella immediately searched for the address of The Evil Witch on the Internet, and located her by using a GPS system. Meanwhile, the Evil Witch was in her castle watching their steps using her magic mirror. When she realised they were on the way to her castle, she sent her loyal assistant, Peter Pan, to ambush them with a weapon and some hand

grenades. Luckily, Cinderella used her computer to introduce a virus and published a video showing a car exploding during an ambush. When the evil witch saw it, she was very happy as she thought that her plan had worked and so went to relax by taking a bath, feeling very confident. Luckily, Peter Pan failed during the ambush, because “Mobile justice,” that was the name of their armoured Hummer, had no problem passing the ambush. When they arrived at the castle, the team couldn’t get inside, because it was closed. So, they asked Pinocchio to climb over a wall and open the door from the inside. A

Cross word puzzle

Celebrations!!!

big battle then started inside. The Evil Witch and her gang were winning little by little. Peter Pan reached them and began a sword battle against the brave Pinocchio. They had built a special trap for him and suddenly he fell into a hole full of termites who wanted to eat him. Fortunately, Little Red Riding Hood stopped the termites using her mental powers, and when they were about to be defeated, a fast red Ferrari, skidding around the bends, with the music very loud, appeared. Everybody was shocked, because they couldn’t see anybody inside until the door opened and the Seven Dwarves appeared. They began to beat up those who were in the middle of the battle. Finally, they managed to stop Peter Pan and his henchmen. Pinocchio and Little Red Riding Hood went to catch the witch, who was inside her castle, making herself pretty in front of the mirror and it was a very unpleasant moment for the witch when they arrested her. Snow White was freed by the specialist team and thanks to the Seven Dwarves help. The team Grow and shine darling. God bless you all the days of your life. Amen! triumphed one more time and Mom and dad love you. achieved their objective – to rescue Snow Ans: A waist of time White. Why are frogs so happy? Ans: They eat whatever bugs them J.Eduardo Why did the banana go to the Doctor? Lopez.M Ans: Because it was not peeling well What do you get when you cross a cow and a duck? Why is England the wettest country? Ans. Milk and quackers! Ans: Because the queen has reigned there What do you call a sleeping bull? for years! Ans: A bulldozer! Why do fish live in salt water? What do you call a belt with a watch on Ans: Because pepper makes them sneeze! it?

Hurrah! OLUWATUNMISE is 1

Gags

MOYIN & FRIENDS

LITTLE LINDER

By Ayo Oyerinde

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By eei

SUNDAY

Faith 51

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Sermon Let love break forth p.56

Interveiw Don’t use the pulpit to destroy other Christians -Archbishop Ramzi p.53

News Vatican to recognise Palestine p.58

Muslims may be casualties in Buhari’s government –Cleric Presiding Minister of Church of Nigeria (Anglican Church) Bukuru Diocese, Bishop Jean Zhumbes, believes that Muslim fundamentalists might become first casualties in Buhari’s incoming government. He spoke with Tai Anyanwu Could you tell us how Christians in the North fare? In the core Northern states like Kano, Katsina, Jigawa and the rest, you will notice that there is not a single area that you don’t have a good percentage of Northern indigenous Christians. But one of the ways the Christians are oppressed is in the area of administration. Christians are not appointed to political positions in all of those areas; no matter how qualified they are. Christians are not appointed as commissioners and they don’t attain the peak of their careers in the civil service. They are not made permanent secretaries, commissioners or

Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph online.com

Zhumbes

managers of corporations and parastatals. They will never be made vice-chancellors of universities in their states or even in federal universities; and they will never be contemplated in the first place. This is one case I raised with the people who were going round vouching for Jonathan in 2011. I said to them that in all of these states in the North, there are Christians and that every time you appoint people it all means empowerment. I saw all through from Obasanjo to President Jonathan, hardly had any Moslem ever voted any of them. Those are the realities on ground, because a typical core Moslem will not vote for them

The governments in the North, which are more often than not led by Muslims, push Christians away from the centre of cities, and push their worship places outside the centre of the cities

to them to become president. Yet the people who would dare to vote them are the people who would not enjoy the chance at the end of the day. Is there any deliberate policy that discourages Christian fellowships in the core North? Another fact is that inch by inch, the governments in the North, which are more often than not led by Muslims, push Christians away from the centre of cities, and push their worship places outside the centre of the cities. Sometimes, they take over their land deliberately for some reasons that you cannot really define. And they will promise to give them another and never give them any at the end of the day. So worship is frustrated on that side. A lot of impressions state that we are together and we don’t discriminate but that is not true. I was at a dialogue attended by the Sultan of Sokoto. The question was asked about why there is no chapel in Uthman Dan Fodio University, as old as it is. And then somebody came and wanted to make a comparison with some eastern states where he claimed there are no worship places for Muslims. So those are some of their ways. They deliberately will not allow you to have worship places in choice areas in these places. There are areas that a church mustn’t be seen. And then in some places, they appoint traditional leaders for you who will just come and lord it over you. There is no piece of land that is not owned by a traditional leader and you are expected to be a

subject to. There is also this issue of herdsmen. What amount of support did Buhari enjoy from Northern Christians? The issue is that it is a political dispensation and party affiliation is a personal choice. A good number of people will come out and tell you that we should go out of religious sentiments. And how I wish in a country like this where the Muslims are about 100 percent do not vote a Christian; but the Christians are so liberal to vote in a Muslim. Like I said party affiliation is something that gives you freedom of association to join the party you enjoy. It is a choice and another thing is did God allow it or not? The people have made their choice. How did they react to the report that some Muslims chanted jihadist songs while celebrating Buhari’s victory? The followership is the real problem. A bunch of them are illiterate; they see elections as a religious battle that must be won by Muslims. So, that they were chanting jihadist or war songs should not be surprising to us. To them, they have won, they didn’t see Nigeria winning but it was they winning. I am not surprised at that because it was expected. If Buhari remains the kind of man that we know a little bit when he was a military head of state, if he still has that kind of guts and he brings it to play in this administration then the number one casualty of this administration will be Muslims. What are the fears of Northern Christians over Buhari’s presidency? We will approach Buhari’s government with a very positive mind. And we are ready to speak out as Christian leaders because Buhari is alleged to be an Islamic fundamentalist. But it is an allegation against him, until he proves otherwise. Personally, I don’t have anything to hold Buhari as a funCO NTINUED O N PAGE 57

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Faith

Can religion improve national growth and unity? • Loveth Ifeanyi believe there are rules and regulations in different religion because any good person Christian or Muslim, who has the fear of God in him, will always contribute to anything good for the growth of the nation

•Ibrhim Morounkeji When there is no discrimination between Muslims and Christian, religion will bring peace and love. There will be unity in Nigeria when people learn to act without religious biases. For example, I’m a Muslim married to a Christian, I fast when my wife is fasting in their church. She also cooks for me when I am fasting as a Muslim. Parent shouldn’t disagree when their children fall in love with people of different religion background. They should be encouraged; by so doing, you are playing a worthy role in our country. When both Christians and Muslims genuinely love each other, God will help us; as he helped the outgoing president and president-elect.

•Ajibola Ahmed eligion should contribute to the national development when believers embrace the truth. If they avoid discrimination of any sort be it racial, tribal and religious.

•Jude Kennedy n Nigerian setting, culture and religion are highly regarded. Talking about religion, missionaries are highly respected to the point that what a priest tells his members to do something, they would obey religiously. Likewise if an im am should tell his fellow Muslims to act in a particular manner, that is what they will do. Take issue of Isis, Boko Haram, as a case in point. Religion has a vital role to play in our society; it can bring peace, unity, understanding and harmony among people. It can also crystallise into chaos, war, hate and other negative development in any country. It is only when we practice religion in a way that preserved the purity and sanctity of the tenets of love, tolerance, patience, forgiveness and other virtues prescribed by both the Holy Bible and the Koran that we can harness the best that religion has to offer.

•Abimbola Akosile

•ODUNAYE SHERIFF ell, I think religion should be the guardian of people. Why? Since most of our citizens lives are controlled by religion. It should also propel the people to do what is right and shield them from doing what is bad. In this way, there should be change I mean; religion should be able to change people to ensuring that they do what is right.

eligion is a powerful tool for growth and unity of any nation and Nigeria is not different. Religious leaders can preach mutual tolerance and love among different adherents. This in turn fosters unity, which eventually leads to peace, stability and growth.... God bless Nigeria.

•Olorunfemi Sodiq t should encourage our youth to avoid hooliganism; it should preach the word of God not only to our youths but to many people in our society, especially, our leaders to rule this nation with the fear of God.

•Afolabi Gambari n a nation where there is no love and there is no trust, there is little or nothing that religion can do.

•AKINTUNDE ADAMS eligion should provide a kind of guide to our people. It should enhance the growth of the country if it ensures that people taught to cultivate right attitudes.

• Bright John o no no, religion will rather bring us down to ruin

•Carolyn Nwohia eligion has a lot of roles to play in our national development. It can build and also destroy. For instance, religion can make peace, make the nation to move forward and bring down the nation like we have seen Boko Haram cause problems in our country. Religion takes care of the poor masses and protects the masses, A God fearing nation will make tremendous progress, especially when it has a leader that does the right thing without being influenced by the voice of the corrupt people.

R •AYINLA YUSUF I think religion should play a vital role in national development. Religion should be a means of fostering peace among the nationals, thereby giving room for rapid national development.

•Ata Isaac

believe that the role of religion in our national development is to preach the word of God to create changes in our society, and to impact the lives of the citizenry for positive participation and play significant role in the development of the country.

•Olabisi Hamilton he religious heads are the determining factor. It is what they preach that will mould and shape the mind of their followers. Take Boko Haram, for example, they are a sectional religious group. See what they preach.

Josephine Damisa and Damilare Omosanya sought the opinion of readers

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Faith

Don’t use the pulpit to destroy other Christians -Archbishop Ramzi The spiritual head of the Catholic Church of the East, Archbishop Ramzi Musallam, paid his second apostolic visit to the Church in Nigeria. He spoke with Tai Anyanwu What is your mission in Nigeria? I am here to minister the sacrament of Confirmation to the people of God here in Nigeria. Part of my reasons for visiting is to dedicate St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church of the East, Aba, in Abia State; consecrate the Holy Family Adoration Ground and the Marian Grotto built by the Rev. Fr Modestus Chiedozie Chilaka, at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church of the East, Obiohuru in Isiala Mbano, in Imo state. We need peace in the Catholic Church and here in Africa, in the United States and whole world, peace is needed and also in the Holy Catholic Church, we must continue to emphasise the need for peace. You talk about peace, what will be your reaction to what is happening in South Africa now? We have to continue to pray for South Africa and pray for the whole world. What is happening in South Africa is also happening in the Middle East. I come from Palestine and that is the heart of the problem we are facing in Palestine and also in South Africa.We have to continue to support and pray for them so that we can bring them peace, the peace of God. Killing is unacceptable; we don’t want anybody to be killed in the name of God. The church you have come to dedicate in Imo State is quite different from the Catholic Church that we know here. What should Christians in Nigeria expect? First of all, in Jerusalem where Christ instituted the Holy Catholic Church, the church was instituted on the day of Pentecost. We are not away from the Catholic Church. But I ask all Catholics and all Christians ‘Don’t use the pulpit as a weapon to destroy other Christians.’ But I ask that Christians must be supportive of each other. The problem we have in Christendom, whether you are Pentecostal or Catholic, or whoever you are, is that we are not using the love of Jesus Christ to promote the gospel of life. Why we are not the same as the other churches is because we don’t use the media as a weapon to destroy other Christians. We

Ramzi

I grew up with hate, I grew up with the Jewish people, not among the Muslims and I saw the good and I saw the bad but my main focus is to bring love and peace

use the media as a weapon to bring the peace and love of Jesus Christ Himself to the whole world. So we are not the same as the others, because we preach love and we preach peace. And everyone is using the pulpit and I know a lot of priests use more power against love, they preach against love. What I have to tell the Nigerian people of all faith is that we are here to bring people into Christ and if we have to preach evil against love, then we are not Catholics and we are not Christians. So I have come to preach the love of Jesus Christ. Whether you are under the pope and whether the Pentecostals are not under the pope, we are preaching Jesus Christ. Our main hope and main focus is to receive eternal salvation from the one who can help us, our God. I grew up with hate, I grew up with

the Jewish people, not among the Muslims and I saw the good and I saw the bad but my main focus is to bring love and peace. And I am not here to bring any kind of animosity among the brothers in the faith except to urge them to bring and preach peace in the world. Why Catholic Church of the East? We are the Arabic Catholic Church. In America, we use the word ‘East’ because the gospel of Jesus Christ came to us from the east; so we look to the East. Every Catholic Parish is supposed to look to the east like our brothers, the Muslims. When they pray, they look to the East because the east has an important meaning and significance to all of us. How would you react if members of the Roman Catholic Church ask people not to associate with your church? When they say that, it is because they don’t know us. In America, we have the best relationship with the Roman Catholic Church. When you go to ask Nigerian priests about us, they are not going to speak well of us, yet, they continue to call themselves Christians. I remember one of the priests here saying that we are fake, that it is not Roman Catholic Church. If it is fake, it then means that everybody is fake. You as the media, you can go to the bishops to ask about us. Ask them and see who we are. That is all that I can say. I can’t speak for them. What I can tell you is what I am telling you now; we are Catholics, we preach Christ, and we preach peace. Once, the apostles of Jesus Christ came to him and told him, ‘Master, there are those who are healing people in your name and men who are taking evil out in your name. And he had to stop them.’ And Jesus said: if they are for us, they cannot be against us. So the gospel of Jesus Christ is not only for the Roman Catholic Church. The Gospel is for everyone who may come to know the Lord Jesus Christ and receive Him. You see, some priests in the Catholic Church are blocking people from coming in. And Pope John Paul II once said. Open the door wide into Christ. So, we will be compelled, not because I want to be under the pope. I will be compelled by my works. Therefore, the people here in Nigeria are not all Catholics. I am not coming here

just for the Catholics, or to steal away the Catholics. If you are a Catholic, remain Catholic. If you are a Baptist, remain a Baptist. As long as you are practicing your faith in Christ, be whoever you are and let every word that comes out of your mouth be the love of Christ. And we support those people here in the North whose blood was shed because of their faith. Why? Because they were killed as martyrs. So, if the Roman Catholic Church are not going to call them martyrs as other martyrs killed by ISIS, I am here now to declare those who have been killed here as martyrs in the holy faith. What is the significant difference between your church and the Roman Catholic Church? I will be honest with you, the only thing different is just for us to hand over our property to the pope. Our faith is the same thing. We practice the same sacrament. The only thing is that we don’t have the pope, but we pray for him at mass. I once have said to the pope when I met with him: ‘we are one with you in faith’. In administration we are not, and that means our monies, our properties are separate. If, for instance, you want to belong to the Patriarch of Constantinople, you have to throw in your properties, your wealth to him. And then you can be accepted. It is the same way if you want to be under the Pope. The Catholic Church of the East does not reject the Holy Father. We love the Pope of Rome. We love the Roman Catholic bishops. We are Catholics because we uphold the teachings of the Holy Church. Let me tell you something else. Our church is Arabic. Arabic, as you know is being rejected. In America, we have a lot of prejudice. The same way the blacks were prejudiced in America, that is the way our people are being treated. When September 11 happened, our people were being killed. Police officers in America were killing some Arabic people. Some Arabic homes were put on fire in Chicago. So, the Arabic people called upon me to lead them in the faith. Our people are also persecuted in the Middle East. When they came to America, they saw Irish Catholics persecuting the Arabic people. So the people called on me. They asked me: can you lead us? So, I followed the call of my people. They elected me the first bishop and then a Catholic bishop from a Roman Catholic Church in Brazil consecrated me. Now, the Catholic Church of the East is Arabic. It is sad that we have to go that way because of the rejection by other ethnicities. In America, you have the German, Irish bishops, but there is no Arabic catholic bishop. Even the Spanish people in America are becoming Protestants. We had to be bold enough to take the needed steps to uphold and keep our faith. And that is why we care who we are - because we were rejected. With education, people are now trying to understand and accept us as Catholics. Arabic Christians think that everybody is Muslim. And yet there are Muslims and there are good Muslims. And the heart of the faith, like one of you asked, why the East, it is because the Catholic Church did not only come from Rome. That is the problem because people are thinking that Rome is the eternal city. No, it is Jerusalem.

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Let love break forth Firm Faith:

Right Reason Most Rev.

Emmanuel A. Badejo fradebadejo@yahoo.

0803 949 4219 (SMS only)

Bashing religion Most people know a cynical quote about religion being the opium of the people. Some even call religion the cyanide of the masses. Such pronouncements portray religion as an enemy and a curse of man and of society rather than a blessing. What we really need answer is, how come so many people of class, status and means of all professions, languages and interests still cherish religion as they do? The answer is as straightforward as the Bible gives it. God said to his people: “I shall put my spirit within you and move you to follow my decrees and keep my laws” (Ez. 36:27). “As a deer longs for flowing streams so my soul longs for you, O God” (Ps.42;10 The Bible is right on point. Every human being deep inside him longs for a higher being, a longing difficult to deny. Things clamour for their owners. “Our hearts are restless Oh Lord until

they rest in thee,” said Saint Augustine. The truth is that religion has always been necessary to help man better manage himself. Demonising religion for all the oppression and injustice perpetrated by religious people is much like condemning cell phones because they are sometimes used to detonate explosives. One of the positive roles religion plays is to remind man of the constant need to seek reconciliation, reparation, restoration and renewal. To paraphrase Jonathan Swift, the problem is that some people have just enough religion to make them hate, but not enough to make them love other people. The ‘war’ in Nigeria War! That is what elections amount to so far in Nigeria. In spite of all entreaties for civility and decency, elections in our country have yet to become safe and secure in this country. During the recent elections, allegations of arms pile-up by groups and individuals who would prefer the bullet to the ballot box as a way to power, had most people on edge. By God’s grace, however, Nigeria survived the ‘war;’ an electoral contest in which many politicians and citizens threw courtesy and decency out the window in their bid to grab power and position. Out the window, along with civil values, went religious principles as well. We saw emerge even in many highly- placed

As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God” (Ps.42;10. The Bible is right on point. Every human being deep inside him longs for a higher being, a longing difficult to deny. Things clamour for their owners

people the animal called man, in his undiluted raw state; greedy, self centred, brutal and murderous. As is often said that in war, rules and codes of conduct take a back seat; betrayals, backbiting, calumny, became preferred tools of relationship. In spite of the best efforts of the electoral umpire, many otherwise decent people simply became champions of indecency, just to secure victory The ravages of war Since the electoral results came out and jubilation subsided, many people have receded into near-passivity, savouring

the relative peace and simply waiting for the handover day from when “miracles would begin to happen.” But the aftermath of war is never all pleasant. Many contestants in the elections emerged physically and psychologically bruised, maimed or even bereaved from the elections, still lamenting and weeping. Many people’s names and reputations were damaged and they still hurt. Therefore, in this tentative/tenuous peace the future demands to be built and secured. Serious challenges abound and the nation needs all its energies and best resources to overcome them. One of those challenges is that of reconciliation of all who have hurt each other. Without it the nation cannot fully enjoy the fruits of the elections that have just taken place. The texture of reconciliation The task of reconciliation demands honesty, humility and attentiveness to the voice of God and conscience. According to the Midrash, “a reconciliation that does not recognise that error often lies on both sides of a case is not a true reconciliation.” In the murky waters of politics, it is doubtful if a completely innocent party ever exists on any issue. Citizens, especially Christian and Muslim politicians, have a big responsibility in this regard. Reconciliation is needed to provide the platform for the healing that can bring the best out of Nigeria.

It’s time to break new grounds (2) Insight Rev.

Femi Akinola

www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

have not heard your name in the news nor read about you in international papers. The power to get to where you belong, receive it in Jesus name. Your boss has no plan for you; Jacob would have served Laban till death but one day he came to his senses and asked himself, “When will I prepare for my own home?” Where men have calculated and equated you to nothing, God who is the supreme lifter of men will step into your case for a supernatural turnaround in Jesus name. “He lifts the poor from the dust and the needy from the garbage dump. He sets them among princes, placing them in seats of honour. For all the earth is the LORD’s, and he has set the world in order.” I Sam 2:8 (NLT) All those you look up to and admire are not better than you. There is just something they are doing that you have ignored. By reason of this message, you shall receive divine insight to become a business owner in Jesus name. Who told you believers cannot call the shots in the high places of life? This is starting with you this year in Jesus name. Keys to breaking new grounds Forget the past “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old” Isaiah 43:18. The first law of breaking new grounds is in your ability to put the past behind you. The past holds no substance

to guarantee another beginning but your future. God is the beginning of all beginnings and this is the unfolding of your future; hence, the future should be your object of focus, not your past. All that you’re believing God for is in the future, not in the past and it will not pass you by in Jesus name. Dream anew “One night Joseph had a dream, and when he told his brothers about it, they hated him more than ever,” Gen 37:5 (NLT) To break new grounds, to break your fallow ground, you need to dream new dreams, think new thoughts, make new plans, set new targets, take new steps and set new agenda. You can’t do things with the old pattern and expect to get different results. There is a need for overhauling of your productive system and that springs from conceiving new depth, insight and rare initiative that have the capacity to ignite a life-changing revolution. Step out in faith “Then Peter spoke up, ‘Lord, if it is really you, order me to come out on the water to you,’ Matt 14:28 (GNT) Breaking new grounds begins from the very moment you decide to launch out in faith. Do not let fear hold you down; start that business, register that company name, open that shop, wax that record, write another proposal, keep moving, keep thinking. Take that bold step and your life will keep rolling and progressing. Take a step full of faith and stop being idle as it is the mainstream of the devil’s devices. It was not only Jesus that walked on water. Peter also did; he never knew he could walk on water until he took the step. You never know how far you can go or how much you can achieve until you take a step to resign from that

He lifts the poor from the dust and the needy from the garbage dump. He sets them among princes, placing them in seats of honour. For all the earth is the LORD’s, and he has set the world in order.” 1 Sam 2:8 (NLT) job. God will not do anything until you take a step. Though you might not be qualified for the height you are gunning for but God can qualify you and this is when you take the step rather than fold your arms. You need to take a step because God does not inhabit your murmuring. “When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up; and he shall save the humble person,” Job 22:29 Remember that the steps of the righteous are ordered by God. God is waiting for you to take the step and He will order it. As you take a step of faith this week, the Lord will order it in Jesus name. Be violent “And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force,” Matt 11:12 (AMP) The good things of life will not be delivered to you on a platter. You have to fight for them, pay for them and take them violently. There are powers and forces from the foundation of your destiny that do not want you to break new grounds but you need to be violent. In the pyramid of life, the people down do

not want you to ascend likewise those up the pyramid. Every power up or down resisting your easy passage in destiny, let the thunder of the Living God clear them off your way in the name of Jesus. If the heaven suffers violence, then why are you handling destiny issues with levity? Until you get celebrated nobody wants to associate with you no matter how much title you attribute to yourself. Get a word from God “Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: ‘Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan. You will drink from the brook, and I have ordered the ravens to feed you there.’ So he did what the LORD had told him. He went to the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan, and stayed there,” 1 Kings 17:2-5 (NIV). Don’t launch out without hearing from God. Even the newspaper cannot help you break new grounds. Good news doesn’t sell; the Bible is the only carrier of good news that has the capacity to refresh your thought process towards breaking new grounds. What would have happened to Elijah if he had not heard from heaven? He would have been disgraced. My prayer for you is that the word that will sustain you is locating you right away. Where others are dying you will live, where others are selling you will be buying from them in the name of Jesus. Prayer points • Lord I am ready to break new grounds, give me direction! • Holy Spirit, open my eyes of understanding to locate what will announce my destiny! • I resist every negative thought and attitude that can pollute my destiny table!

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

The rapture of the church Mystery ofAnxiety Bishop

John Ogbansiegbe

0803 341 6327

t. Paul talked about the translation of the Church in 1st Corinthians 15 vs. 51-53 and said, “Behold, I shew you a mystery, we shall not all sleep. But we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised incorruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immorality.” In the Old Testament, there was a case of a type of rapture precisely in 2nd Kings chapter 2, when two men - Elijah and Elisha - crossed over the Jordan River. As they continued their journey, God told Elijah that He would take him up by a whirlwind on that day. And as the two men were walking and conversing, suddenly, there appeared a “Chariot of fire and horse of fire, and parted them asunder; and Elijah went up .” The unique difference between Christianity and all other religions is the hope of the resurrection of the dead. St. Paul also said in 1st Thessalonians 4

vs. 13-17. “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope for if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them which also sleep in Jesus will God bring with him, for this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we shall not prevent them which are sleep, for the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangels and with the trump of God , and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” The Bible made us to know that it will be a case of “Absent from the body and present with the Lord.” Many people keep asking: “How can the dead resurrect?” St. Paul answered in 1st Corinthians 15 vs. 35-50, when he said, “Behold how a grain of wheat is planted in the cold dark ground. There it lies and dies. Nevertheless a strange thing happens.” According to St. Paul, if God can cause a seed of grain to spring fourth from death unto life, he will be more willing and readier to raise a dead man to new life. Most Christians will be unready when the rapture will take place. That was why our Lord Christ said in Matthew 24 vs. 40-42: “Two shall be in the field; the one shall be taken and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken and the other left, watch therefore, for ye know

The rapture is not for the hypocritical, unready and mediocre Christians. It is for those classes of people who are foresighted and had overcome all forms of spiritual carelessness and carnality

not what hour your Lord doth come.” Our present generation requires the greatest level of readiness for the rapture. The fulfillment of these signs in our generation, is significant enough to persuade any heaven conscious Christian into a constant state of readiness for the rapture. In Matthew 25 vs. 1- 13, our Lord Jesus Christ told a parable of the five wise and five foolish virgins who went forth to meet the bridegroom. Read the full account in the above scriptural verse. This parable clearly shows that when our Lord Jesus Christ shall come, some of His followers will be ready to meet Him, but others will not be ready. But only those that have the oil of the Holy Spirit in the vessels of their lamps will be ready enough to meet the Bridegroom. The unready ones shall never enter once the door is shut. Time is very short. The challenge before us, therefore, is to sincerely match

Faith

on to readiness for the rapture. The rapture is not for the hypocritical, unready and mediocre Christians. It is for those classes of people who are foresighted and had overcome all forms of spiritual carelessness and carnality. Why not be ready now? Everything in our present world points to the brevity of time. Where are you? Are you in the category of the wise virgins of the foolish virgins that will miss the rapture because of carelessness and unreadiness? If the rapture should take place now, if our Lord Jesus Christ should come now, do you consider yourself a fit, ready and proper person to be raptured? Analyse and examine yourself now before it is too late. Time is short. There is no repentance in the grave. Repent of your sins now. Tomorrow is full of uncertainties. No man can save you. No certificate can save you. Your building cannot save you and your position cannot save you. Your little secret powers are meaningless. At best, they will keep you in perpetual bondage of Satan. “Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” Acts 4vs. 12. You will be making the greatest mistake in your world if you ever imagine that there is any power greater than the power of Jesus Christ the Son of the living God. He is the greatest name and the greatest power in the whole universe. He can save and preserve your life if you repent of your sins and believe in Him.

Three stages of the New Birth the Oracles of God Frank Oboden Olomukoro frankolomukoro@yahoo.com

0703 362 1866

ust like the natural birth, the New Birth goes through three stages – Water, Blood and Spirit. When a woman is giving birth to a child, the first thing that comes forth is water, then blood, then life (Spirit). Being born again is a similar process with three stages: (1) Justification by water, (2) Sanctification by the Blood, and (3) Baptism of the Holy Spirit. We can categorically say that justification alone is not a new birth. Justification and sanctification are also not the new birth. The new birth consists of the combined processes of justification, sanctification and baptism of the holy spirit. The same process goes even for the earth’s redemption. The earth was baptised in water in the days of Noah. It was then sanctified when the blood of Jesus Christ was shed on Calvary’s hill. It will be baptised with the fire of God during the battle of Armageddon, before God can finally dwell in it during the millennium. Just the same way, before God can ever dwell in a person through the baptism of the Holy Ghost (man being a temple of the Holy Ghost), that man has to undergo these three stages - Justification, Sanctification and Holy Ghost Baptism. God will not dwell in a filthy, unconverted sinner. Man needs to repent of

his sins, be forgiven, be cleansed, be justified, be sanctified, before the Holy Ghost, can ever dwell in him. FIRST STAGE – JUSTIFICATION The first work of God’s grace in the sinner’s life is justification. Romans 3:24 tells us that we are “justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Therefore, God sovereignly and freely justifies the sinner by calling him/her by the preaching of the word to acknowledge that they’re sinners, and to repent and receive Christ as their personal Saviour and Lord. Through the blood of His own son, God looks beyond our sin, not laying it to our charge, and offers us (free of charge) salvation and deliverance from the power and influence of Satan and the old sinful nature of our flesh – this is justification. He declares us righteous in Jesus Christ, and through the Gospel He invites us to accept, take possession of His free gift. Justification by faith (Rom 10:17) requires believing (acknowledging, accepting) the word. “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth” (I Peter 1:22), then Repentance and water Baptism must follow. Acts 2:38 gives the process for eternal prescription thus: “Repent, everyone of you and be baptised in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” REPENTANCE is “sorrow for sin;” “a complete turning away from sin,” and such a “regret over one’s sins so as to decide to change one’s ways like the prodigal son;” “laying aside all filthi-

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us

ness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls” (James 1:21-22) Scripturally, repentance has three main elements: (1) CONVICTION; (2) CONTRITION; (3) DESIRE TO BE CHANGED. CONVICTION is the state of being sensible about wrongdoing. (Jonah 3:1-10, Acts2:37). It is God’s red flag of warning to us that we are going in the wrong direction. Being born in sin, we continue in sin, doing that which is right in our own eyes without due regard for what God requires in His word. Therefore, God, through the preaching of the word, brings conviction that we need to change our ways to line up with His

word. I John 1:8-10 states, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” CONTRITION: Brokenhearted for sin, grief of heart for sin. It is a ‘sincere sorrow,’ Godly sorrow and brokenness for our sins (2 Cor 7:10). The Bible says, “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as to be of a contrite spirit.” (Psalms 34:18) Contrition is a sincere regret over past sins and an earnest, humble desire to walk in a new path of righteousness, according to the instructions laid out in God’s word. Contrition includes ‘humbling’ ourselves to God’s ways. When we stand at the cross of Calvary and see what our sins cost God, our hearts should be broken and contrite. We should cry out like the publican did, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13). The Bible tells us that when Peter considered how he had ignored and denied the Lord three times, he went out and wept bitterly because of his sin (Matt 26:75) THE DESIRE TO BE CHANGED: This is to forsake. This is the third element of ‘Repentance.’ It is the desire for God to change your thought pattern, change your attitude (posture), change your ways, change your motives and objectives in life, to conform to His ways and His will for you. In 2 Corin 7:10 the Bible says, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation.”

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Be wise, practice the word you know (2) Taming your Emotions Bishop

Lawrence Osagie 0806 325 0667 www.powerlineministriesinc.org mail:powerlineministries@mail.com

he Bible says when you become wise and have understanding; it will become an ornament of grace. What is ornament? These entire necklaces, precious metals that you use to decorate yourself; nobody wears any piece of ornament and hide it. They are meant for public viewing. Everyone who sees you can tell the quality of the ornament you are wearing because they are visible. So when wisdom becomes your ornament of grace, everywhere you go people will notice it and testify of your godly conduct and exceptional personality. That is what guarantees a life that is disgrace-free. The wisdom of God will make your face to shine all the time and that is will of God concerning you. But don’t be wise in your own consent. The Bible gives us that instruction and it is pertinent that you lean not on your own understanding. Don’t ever think that you are smart, let your trust – your

absolute trust is in God. It is instructive that you do not trust in yourself or in your ability neither boasts of your strength and prowess for you are what you are by grace. There is only one thing that is stable in this life. The dynamism of life and mature does not change it. And that is personified in Jesus – the ancient Word of God. In the gospel of John we read: “In the beginning was the word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness and darkness comprehended it not” (John 1:1-5). In Jesus was all things made and He is the express Word of God made manifest. So when the preacher says attend to the Word, he is telling you to abide in Christ. He is the original wine and we are branches. No branch can hear fruit except it abides in the true vine. He is the life of men. He is the light of men and that light shines in darkness and darkness does not have the power to comprehend it. Darkness here is suggestive of all the negative vices of the evil one. When the light of God is in you, those negative vices cannot comprehend you or control your life. And this is enough to emphasis the efficacy of the word of

In the beginning was the word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life and the life was the light of men God in your life. You cannot compromise the standard of the word of God and expect to avoid being disgraced. One thing I know that have been tired severally and it cannot fail is the word of God. Do you know how many times people have tried to burn the bible and to make use it is no more in circulation? This remains the best book in the word, the best seller. You cannot stop it; more are being printed every day. Good people seek the word. If you retain the word in your spirit you become indestructible, you become indomitable, you become invisible. In Romans 10:11, the scripture says: “Whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed. Hear that emphasis on the word ‘whosoever

‘categorising properly that the blessing of God is not for a certain class or race or colour of people but anyone who dare believes on Him. The question is do you believe oh Him? If your answer is yes, then expert nothing that brings shame. You will not be ashamed. The truth may be bitter but say it. You will not be put to shame. God stands by you to defend you. When the Hebrew trio made up their minds not to compromise, at the nick of time; the fourth man was seen in the furnace of fire with them. He will appear to take away your shame in Jesus name. The Psalmist writing said: “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he mediate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of waters that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither and whatsoever he doeth shall proper.” (Psalm 1:1-3). If this message has blessed your life, you can get more at the Powerline Bible Church. We invite you worship with us at Powerline Bible Church Glass House, Odolowu Bus Stop, Ijeshatedo, along Mile2- Oshodi Expressway, Lagos.

Engaging the unlimited power of faith for settlement! The Voice of Dominion by

Bishop David Oyedepo

7747546-8 (SMS only)

very prophetic word from God is designed for fulfilment. This is because prophecies are not psychological predictions, but the unveiling of divine plan. We must also understand that God speaks according to His resources and not our scarcity. He speaks according to His integrity and not our fallibility. He also speaks according to His size and His unlimited capacity to make it happen (Isaiah 55:11; Number 23:19; Deuteronomy 18:22; Haggai 2:8; Psalms 50:9-11). In addition, it is important to know that only God’s hand can perform whatever He says. However, without our faith, we cannot take delivery (Isaiah 14:24).

What, then, is Faith? • Faith is the master key to a world of unlimited possibilities: Through faith, every believer possesses the ability to do the things that only God can do. However, we must understand that it is our level of faith that determines our level of command on earth (John 14:12; See also John 11:40; Mark 9:23). • Faith is a spiritual engraftment of humanity into divinity thereby commanding supernatural feats: For instance, when you graft a guava branch to an orange tree, it bears orange fruits. This is because the guava branch has aligned with the nature of its new root. Similarly, when we engage our faith, we are grafted into God and partake

of His divine nature; thereby, commanding divine authority over the issues of life (Romans 11:19-23). But, what makes Bible Faith Unique?

• Bible faith turns trials into testimonies: We understand from scriptures that it was the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego that turned their trial in the fiery furnace into a testimony (Daniel 3:28; See also Hebrew 11:33-34; Matthew 9:27-29; Luke 21:13). • Bible faith is a driving force: This driving force propels its carriers to take delivery of their desires (Hebrew 11:7). It is, therefore, not enough to embrace and treasure prophetic words, we must engage in faith driven actions to see them actualized in our lives (James 2:18; 1 Samuel 2:3; See also 1 Samuel 1:18). • Faith is our covenant gateway to a world of settlement: First, we must recognize that the Bible is a book of covenants (Jeremiah 33:20-22; Psalms 89:34). This is because God’s Word is based on welldefined terms and sealed with an oath to deliver. However, it is our faith in the settled Word of God that guarantees our settlement in life (1 Peter 5:8-10; See also Psalms 119:89). When we engage the terms of the covenant of settlement, we commit God’s integrity to perform (Isaiah 34:16). What are the terms of the cov enant of settlement?

• We must fully return to God: For instance, life was a miserable adventure for the prodigal son until he returned. When he did,

Lord Jesus, I come to You today. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. From today, I accept You as my Saviour and Lord. Thank You for saving me. Now I know I am born again!

he was settled and his dignity was restored (Luke 15:17-24; 2Chronicles 15:3-6; 11-15; Malachi 3:7). In addition, we must understand that being away from God is a curse (Psalms 16:4; Exodus 34:13; James 1:6-8). • We must be planted in the house of God: When we are planted in the house of God, we are ordained to flourish in all areas (Obadiah 1:17; Hebrews 12:22-24; Psalms 84:4-7; 132:13-18). God has an appointed place of worship for every believer and until we locate and abide there, our settlement is not guaranteed (Psalms 92:12-15; 2 Samuel 7:10; Deuteronomy 12:13-14). • We must make a covenant to serve God: When we serve God and the interest of His Kingdom, He adds to us what others are dying to get (Matthew 6:33; 2Chronicles 15:1-4, 12-15; Joshua 24:15; Deuteronomy 30:19; Exodus 23:25-26; Job 36:11; Matthew 10:10; Luke 10:7; 1 Timothy 5: 18). • We must pray for our desired

settlement as men and women did in Bible days: When Jacob, Jabez, Hannah, Blind Bartimaeus and the Canaanite Woman prayed in faith for their settlement, the Bible says that God heard and settled them immediately (James 4:2; Genesis 32:24-28; 1 Chronicles 4:9-10; 1 Samuel 1:13-19 Mark 10:46-52; Matthew 15:13-28). • Raise an altar of sacrifice: We can also enforce our settlement by rearing an altar of sacrifice as prompted by the Spirit of God (Psalms 126:1-6; Genesis 8:20-22; 2Samuel 24:18-25). Friend, I want you to know that settlement is the exclusive reserve for God’s children. As such, you can only become a child of God by accepting and confessing Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. If you are not yet a child of God, you can do so right now, by saying this prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. From today, I accept You as my Saviour and Lord. Thank You for saving me. Now I know I am born again!” I will see you next week, if Jesus tarries! Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, you can get my books: Unlimited Power of Faith, Exploits Of Faith, The Law Of Faith. I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have four services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 7:50 a.m., 9:40 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. respectively. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 77475468; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Faith

Boko Haram kills 5,000 Catholics – Report

Stanley Ihedigbo ore than 5,000 Catholics have been killed by Boko Haram in a single Nigerian diocese, a new report has revealed. According to the ‘Situation Report on the activities of Boko Haram in the Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri’, up to 85 per cent of the diocese, in the NorthEast of Nigeria, is currently controlled by Boko Haram. It would be recalled that the Islamist group began

its insurgency in 2009, and has been largely active in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states, all of which fall within the Maiduguri constituency. The report from Christian Today Journalist stated that at least 100,000 Catholics in the area have been displaced, and more than 350 churches have been attacked. Some 7,000 women in the diocese are now widowed, and nearly 10,000 children orphaned by the violence, which has spread to neighbour-

King James ‘She Bible’ found in village church

rare version of King James ‘She Bible’ dating from 1611 and worth £50,000 has been discovered in a village church in Lancashire, United Kingdom. The Bible, which was found by parish clergy, Rev. Anderson Jeremiah and Rev. Alexander Baker, has been slated for display at St Mary’s Parish Church, Gisburn in the Blackburn diocese. Christian Today gathered that the ancient version was known as the ‘She Bible’ because Chapter 3 verse 15 of the Book of Ruth incorrectly reads: “And she went into the citie.” This was an error introduced to the King James Bible of an earlier edition which had other errors, but which is known as the ‘He Bible’ because this line from Ruth is correct. The Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association has authenticated the find. The Bible is rare, and other editions exist at Oxford and Cambridge universities and at Salisbury, Exeter and Durham cathedrals.

“It was a really exciting thing to discover - it looks just like something out of Harry Potter. One of the wonderful things about worshipping in a church as old as ours is the sense of history that oozes from its walls and discovering the treasures it has to offer.” “But we were stunned to discover a treasure as rare as this. We knew as soon as we saw the date of the New Testament it was a significant find,” Baker said. Jeremiah added: “It’s amazing to think we are able to hold a book printed as the direct result of the command of King James 400 years ago. “This English language version of the Bible was created to encourage ordinary people to discover the Good News of Jesus Christ for themselves and it is likely that it was the book that first took God’s word into many people’s homes in this part of Lancashire. Now we hope to encourage the people of Lancashire and elsewhere to visit our church and discover this Bible for themselves.”

Excel 2015 of RCCG Apapa family holds in June

he eight series of the annual music, worship and celebration of the word of God of the Apapa Family of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has been slated for Sunday. The event tagged Excel 2015 comes up on June 7, 2015 at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos. Pastor incharge of the region, Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, explained that the focus of this year’s event is on harnessing the thrust of change championed by the Apapa Family since the 2010 edition, which had the theme: ‘Leading

Change.’ The General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor E.A. Adeboye, will be on hand to minister on the theme, ‘Riding on the Wings of Change.’ Notable gospel entertainers like Wale Adenuga, Frank Edwards and Nathaniel Bassey will be around to excite the gathering. Other features of the event include free medical check-up and food for attendees. The Apapa Family is the group of churches that grew out of the old Apapa Parish of the church.

ing Chad, Cameroon and Niger. According to Aid to the Church in Need, the report also revealed that over half of the diocese’s 40 parish centres and chaplaincy centres have been abandoned by the faithful, and several are now occupied by Boko Haram militants. Four of five convents have also been closed. Speaking on the development, Director of Social Communications in the diocese, Father Gideon Obasogie, told ACN that, “People are very scared and those

who are able to return home find there is nothing left.” However, the Catholic priest said his faith was being strengthened in the midst of adversity. “The good Lord has always been on our side. He has seen us through thick and thin. Our faith has been purified through persecution.” National security became the central talking point of Nigeria’s presidential election in March, after the date was postponed by six weeks while the government tried to curb Boko Haram’s insurgency.

President-elect Muhammadu Buhari is due to take office later this month and has promised to tackle the ongoing problem. Boko Haram would “soon know the strength of our collective will,” Buhari vowed in a televised speech. “In tackling the insurgency, we have a tough and urgent job to do. Boko Haram will soon know the strength of our collective will. We should spare no effort until we defeat terrorism.” On Monday, Buhari met

with Chadian President Idriss Deby to discuss a combined effort to restore stability to the region. “If we want to continue the fight we’ll have to make sure that our two armies work together. This is the only way that we can get results,” Deby said. “We discussed issues of common interest which we will pursue together and to have a joint action to handle the issue of Boko Haram and will overcome it and by the grace of God, peace and security will prevail in the sub-region,” he added.

L-R: Senior Pastor of God’s Power in Action Evangelical Church, Pastor Isaac Adelugba; his wife;Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mrs. Titilayo Tomori (middle) and other dignitaries at the second anniversary thanksgiving of the church in Victoria Island, Lagos recently.

Muslims may be casualties in Buhari’s government –Cleric CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 5 1

damentalist except some of his previous utterances which we at a point held him to. To the best of my mind, it is not the man himself. It is his followers and his ability to contend with his followers. We are watching carefully, monitoring, and to see what is happening. If he wants to continue in power then he must do the right things. If he doesn’t, I am sure Nigeria is beyond when they just watch things going the way they shouldn’t and keep quiet. People will speak out. You sound like you are anticipating some problems. There is the possibility that someone may take advantage of Buhari being president of this country. Some Muslims will want to take advantage of it to unleash mayhem on people who are not Muslims. If he is unable to stand his ground, if he allows them, if he gives them an inch to

do the things they want to do, then they are sincerely going to make life for the Christians in the North, particularly where they are in the majority in the core north, very difficult. There is no doubt about that. In your opinion, how can this be checked? If measures are put in place, assuming that the government means well for all Nigerians, assuming that our assumptions about Buhari are not as we think and that it is otherwise contrary to our own assumption of him being a fundamentalist and all of that, then it may well be the situation where we may begin to relate better than ever before. Because some of the things they have done in time past was in their desperation for the leadership of this country. I am very optimistic about life. I don’t start with pessimism at all. Yes, mischievous people may come out to make life very unbearable for others. I want to sincerely say that

Zhumbes

Nigeria is not an accident at all. I believe sincerely that Nigeria may be an idea of men but it is also a deliberate conception of God. No matter what man is thinking, whatever man is planning and whatever man is maximising, God still remains the one who is on the throne. If it were not God, this election wouldn’t have come out the way it came.

What are your expectations of the incoming administration under Buhari? I am delighted that the President-elect and the APC are looking into some affairs. Let us take sentiments out of governance and encourage relationships with people all over the place. That is the only way things will be better for us as a country.

Faith

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Vatican to recognise palestine

he Vatican concluded its first treaty that formally recognises the State of Palestine, a move that gives legal weight to the Holy See’s yearslong recognition and that drew fast criticism from supporters of Israel. The agreement, which the Vatican said aimed to “enhance the life and activities of the Catholic Church and its recognition at the judicial level,” comes days before Pope Francis is due to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and is likely to solidify relations between the Vatican and Palestinians. The text of the treaty, covering Church activities in areas controlled by the Palestinian Authority, has been concluded and will be officially signed by the respective authorities “in the near future,” said a joint statement released by the Vatican. Abbas is due to attend a Mass at the Vatican

“We have recognised the State of Palestine ever since it was given recognition by the United Nations and it is already listed as the State

Pope-Francis

on Sunday to make saints of two 19th and 20th century Palestinian-born nuns. Vatican officials stressed that the Holy See had given official recognition to the State of Palestine since 2012. The Vatican’s deputy foreign minister, Monsignor Antoine Camilleri, said in an interview with the Holy See’s official newspaper that he hoped the agreement would indirectly help the Palestinian State in its relations with Israel. “It would be positive if the accord could in some way help with the establishment and

recognition of an independent, sovereign and democratic State of Palestine which lives in peace and security with Israel and its neighbours,” he told l’Osservatore Romano. But European Jewish Congress President Moshe Kantor called the move “unfortunate” and said it would “diminish the chances of a negotiated peaceful resolution of the conflict and embolden extremists”. Abraham Foxman of the Anti-Defamation League said the treaty was “premature” and said it would undermine a negotiated, twostate solution to the conflict. The U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution on Nov. 29, 2012 recognising Palestine as an observer non-member state. This was welcomed at the time by the Vatican, which has the same observer non-member status at the United Nations. “We have recognised the State of Palestine ever since it was given recognition by the United Nations and it is already listed as the State of Palestine in our official yearbook,” Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi said. During a visit to the Middle East a year ago, Francis delighted his Palestinian hosts by referring to the “state of Palestine” and giving support for their bid for full statehood recognition. •culled from London Independent

Christianity weakening in America

nited States of America, usually described as God’s own country, is becoming less Christian, a recent study conducted has shown, Washington Post reports. The share of Americans who do not identify with a religion has grown dramatically and now surpasses every affiliation except evangelical Protestants, according to a survey released recently. The Pew Research Center found that 22.8 percent of Americans were religiously unaffiliated last year — up from 16.1 percent in 2007. That group includes atheists, agnostics and those who chose “nothing in particular.” Evangelical Protestants made up 25.4 percent of the adult population, went down slightly from 26.3 percent in 2007. Catholics declined to 20.8 percent from 23.9 percent, and mainline Protestants to 14.7 percent from 18.1 percent, the study revealed. In all, roughly seven in 10 Americans identified with some branch of Christianity, down from almost eight in 10 in 2007. The share of Americans who identify with a non-Christian faith grew to 5.9 percent, with pronounced growth among Muslims and Hindus. Pew found that the drop in Christian affiliation held for all age groups but especially among young adults. The survey was conducted over four months last year and included 35,000 adults.

SUNDAY

Sport 59

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

Football

Man Utd v Arsenal: Gunners target away win since 2006 p.62

Golf

My golf now better, thanks to Fowler – Runsewe p.61

Football

Femi Ilesanmi: Disappointed over surplus tag p.60

Marathon

Kenyans dominate Okpekpe Road Race in Edo p.62

Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu

Taribo: As a pastor, I am a coach

Titus Anyanwu

ormer Super Eagles defender, Pastor Taribo West, has declared in an interview with Sunday Telegraph that his dream is to become the Chairman of the Rivers State Football Association in the nearest future, just as his former teammate Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha has risen to become the chairman of the Delta Football Association after serving under Amaju Pinnick as vice chairman for four years. Taribo who played in two FIFA World Cup finals for Nigeria at France 98 and Korea/Japan 2002 said he has decided to go the way of football administration instead of coaching because, football coaching is the same thing with the work of a pastor which he has been doing even before he hanged his soccer boots. He said: “I can’t be a coach but I can be an administrator. Coaching and the work of a pastor are the same. You must give everything to achieve results. But in the area of administration I have resolved to contribute my ideas while playing a major role in the Rivers state Football Association in future. “I have been quietly working on the actualization of my long term dream to head the Rivers FA board as chairman. “Aside from my dream to become the chairman, I have been working very hard to build an international standard football academy which would groom upcoming Nigerian footballers to stardom. I have those dreams and vision in my heart and I have been praying fervently to God to help bring them to reality.” West, a member of the Nigerian team that won the gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, noted that, though the future remains bright for Nigerian football because of the abundant talents which abound within and outside the country, the problem of football administration is lack of vision. He added that, the lack of organisation has also been a major problem over the years. “Something tells me that the new president of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Amaju Pinnik, he has a lot of good ideas

Aside from my dream to become the chairman, I have been working very hard to build an international standard football academy which would groom upcoming Nigerian footballers to stardom

for the federation; but I don’t know if he has the required support staff to actualise this. “I have spoken with him a couple of times before and had found out that he has a vision to take Nigerian football to greater heights backed by a quality and world class structure that would help progress the country’s football. I believe strongly that Amaju with his expertise coupled with a very tight corporate backing can take us to the next level if he can put together everything we have been talking about. God will help him. The poor management of the NFF made the Super Eagles a very weak team sliding down the FIFA world ranking to all time low but I am sure the team would get better with the new regime.”

The former Julius Berger FC of Lagos star who is one of the few professional players in the world to play for the two Milan teams - Inter Milan and AC Milan- told Sunday Telegraph that towards ensuring a strong footballing structure for Nigeria he has told the NFF president to build a strong domestic league that would make the country the number one in Africa. “I have also told him to try his best to improve the standard of the Nigeria Referee’s Association a move that would make the league worthy of pulling back the crowd which had earlier stayed away because of partial and controversial officiating. The referees were often times owed match indemnities which forced them to receive bribe that has been renamed ‘tactical’ in the Nigeria football circle. If they are paid they won’t accept tactical from any of the clubs and biased officiating would be eliminated. “I am also discussing with the NFF president on ways to buy back the confidence of the people to love our domestic league again because those days when I used to play for a Lagos-based amateur club Ibukunoluwa FC and a professional club Julius Berger FC the stadium is always jammed packed. And earlier before then when I used to watch players like Stephen Keshi and Emmanuel Okala play at the National Stadium, in Surulere as a young boy, while working as a ball picker, if a match is for 4 pm, by 12 noon, the stadium is full. You can’t even see space to enter the stadium. We don’t have any of that now. Today everybody in Nigeria watch the English Premier League teams Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. Some also supports Barcelona FC to the detriment of the domestic league.” Taribo, who had 41 caps for the national team disclosed that he told the NFF boss what could be done to attract the crowd back to stadia again. “The officiating I stressed must improve. We must get a standard league that would attract all kinds of foreigners to our league to play. Amaju has a lot of concept but I pray that God will help him to accomplish them all.”

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport

PROFILE Full name: Oluwafemi Abayomi Alaba Ilesanmi Date of birth: 18 April 1991 Place of birth: Southwark, England Height: 6 ft 1 in Playing position: Defender Current team: York City Number: 3 Youth career: 2007 AFC Wimbledon Senior career: 2007–2008 AFC Wimbledon 2008–2009: Queens Park Rangers 2010: Ashford Town 2010–2014: Dagenham & Redbridge 2010: Histon (loan) 2014 till date: York City

Dapo Sotuminu hen Nigerian-born Femi Illesanmi joined English professional side, York City Football Club from Dagenham and Redbridge FC where he played 33 worthy games, he never knew he would be thrown in a transfer market one year down the line. Illesanmi, who was declared a surplus by York City coach Russ Wilcox during week, expressed his disappointment as he still believes strongly that he can continue to contribute positively to the fortunes of the club. The Nigerian-born defender’s eye-catching displays last year in the colours of York City saw him voted as the ‘Press Player of the Month’ in two straight months - October and November an indication that he was on top of his game. He was however surprised that the club’s coach could place in the transfer market. Femi Ilesanmi shockingly thrived under coach Russ Wilcox’s stewardship initially during the autumn months, but lost his way and never looked as confident going forward or as combative defensively.

Femi Ilesanmi: Disappointed over surplus tag The switch to 3-5-2 playing pattern looked tailor-made for Illesanmi but overlooked by the manager, who often preferred to play others out of position in the left-wing back role. This caused so much disaffection between the coach and the defender who said: “I feel I can play every game this season most definitely. I have not had any long-term injuries during my career I’m hoping I never get any. I have been out a couple of times with things like minor ankle injuries for about a fortnight which made me play four games as substitute. It was a big surprise when the manager called me to a meeting to break the bitter news of placing me in the transfer market. I believe my place is in the regular starting line-up.” Oluwafemi Ilesanmi, an English professional footballer was born April 18, 1991 in Southwark, London to Nigerian parents. He was educated at St Joseph’s Academy, Blackheath. He plays as a defender for York City until Wednesday May 13 when he told of his new status. He has previously played for AFC Wimbledon, Queens Park Rangers, Ashford Town, Dagenham & Redbridge and Histon. Ilesanmi started his career with AFC Wimbledon’s youth system, making his first team debut in 2007 before transferring to Queens Park Rangers in 2008, where he played for the Under-18 team. He spent a year at QPR where he also played for the reserve team, before his

release. He spent time on trial at League Two side Dagenham & Redbridge and Conference Premier side Salisbury City, featuring in friendlies. He then signed for Isthmian League Premier Division side Ashford Town in February 2010. His form prompted newly promoted League One side Dagenham to sign him on a free transfer in May 2010. He spent three months on loan at Conference Premier side Histon in 2010. In February 2010, he signed for Isthmian League Premier Division side Ashford Town, where he spent a short spell. Ilesanmi who has scored only three goals in his entire career scored the first in the series for Ashford FC in a 2-1 home defeat to Carshalton Athletic. During the last few months of the 2009–10 season, Dagenham & Redbridge monitored Ilesanmi’s performances. His last goal for the club came in the final game of the season, when he scored a bizarre goal from an attempted cross which put Ashford in the lead against Harrow Borough. However, Ashford went on to lose the game 6–2 and were relegated for the first time in their history. Ilesanmi made 12 appearances for Ashford, scoring two goals. The defender cannot particularly say where he would be moving to after his stint at York City, but is optimistic that, he would join a better team where he would get the opportunity to express himself better.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015

Golf Weekly My golf now better, thanks to Fowler – Runsewe F ormer Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Commission (NTDC), Otunba Olusegun Runsewe has credited his current ranking as the top amateur golfer at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja, to the encouragement he got from American golfer, Rickie Fowler. Twenty five-year-old Fowler is one of the most respected players on the professional tour and, before turning pro in 2009, was the number one ranked amateur golfer in the world for 36 weeks in 2007 and 2008. He recently won his first major championship on May 7 at the Players Championship, a year after finishing joint second at both the US Open and the Open Championship. “My secret is just commitment to the game. Whatever I find myself doing I try to give my all to it and that is the same with this. But I will credit more of my

present form to inspiration from Rickie Fowler,” said Runsewe. Runsewe added that a recent meeting with Fowler in the United States offered a chance for the former world number one ranked amateur and 2010 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year winner to give some remarks about his game that has seen the trajectory of his performance on the rise. “I have respect for professional golfers, both at home here in Nigeria and abroad, but I can say specifically that Rickie has made some impact in my game of late,” continued Runsewe. “I have also become a huge fan of him too.” The former NTDC boss also said there are quite a lot of development in the world of golf that he is presently working on with the aim of developing the local golf scene; something he feels can help a lot of amateur golfers improve on their game. “I am presently working with

American golfer, Rickie Fowler and Otunba Runsewe

a private team of researchers in the game and we are doing a study across developed golf

communities in South Africa, the Unites States and Scotland,” continued Runsewe who, pas-

McIlroy and co urged to get married

Scott downplays importance of Olympic golf

wice major winner Tony Jacklin believes marriage would help Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler to settle down off the golf course and aid their bid to dominate the sport for the next decade. Jacklin, who is also the most successful European Ryder Cup captain of all time, says the three young golfers should emulate Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player by finding a long-term partner early in their careers. “I got married at 21, Gary was married at 20, Jack at 20, Arnold very early, it’s a lonely business winning golf tournaments and you need a companion to confide in,” the 70-year-old Englishman said. “You can go off like a rocket and burn out very quickly. It soon gets boring unless you get support and have a balanced situation at home. “Rory, Jordan and Rickie are all very young. None of them are married, none has a permanent partner right now and they need to find a companion who will support them in their efforts to be as good as they can be.” Four-time major winner McIlroy ended plans to marry tennis player Caroline Wozniacki 12 months ago but Jacklin, who led Europe to two wins and one tie in four matches in charge of the Ryder Cup team, said a stable partner was integral for his future. “I think a long-term relationship is going to be very important for Rory to be totally stable,” he added. “A growing family, for instance, would keep him well grounded. “He’s not going to be able to maintain the kind of standard he’s achieved for a long period of time on his own. The human element comes in.”

sionately, noted: “I am ready to use my knowledge and findings to benefit the country.”

Mcllroy

dam Scott has taken a swipe at the golf event of the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, describing it as nothing other than an exhibition. Golf is slated to play a role in the 2016 Olympics for the first time in more than 100 years. And speaking to Reuters, the 2013 Masters champion, who has a habit of picking his events, said he’s not overly-concerned about missing it because it’s only an “exhibition:” “I’m planning my schedule around playing majors the best I can. If I can fit going to the Olympics into that, it might be a bit of fun, then lucky me if I qualify,” said Scott. “But if not, I’m not going to miss it, that’s for sure, and I’ll enjoy watching (the major Olympic sports). “Whether I win an Olympic medal or not is not going to define my career or change whether I’ve fulfilled my career,” he continued. “It’s nothing I’ve ever aspired to do and I don’t think I ever will. It’s all about the four majors and I think that’s the way it should stay for golf. “To go and play an exhibition event down there to meet some athletes (in other sports) in the middle of the major season, I don’t think any other athletes in their sport would do that.”

SUNDAY MAY 17, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport / News

Foreign based stars for Nigeria Rugby Sevens squad

ichmond Rugby Football Club winger, Danjuma Mshelia, and Gravesend RFC scrumhalf, Temitope Okenla have been called-up to the Black Stallions Sevens squad for the All Africa Games and Olympics pre-qualifiers in Lome, Togo next month. Both players play in the UK and were involved in the Black Stallions team back in 2013 at the Mombasa Sports Club, Kenya when Nigeria reached the plate semi- finals at The CAR 7s in which Danjuma scored a try against Kenya Shujaa and helped Nigeria reach the plate semi-final in the Tournament. The NRFF had earlier extended an invite to University at Buffalo junior; Ike Onwukanjo who holds dual United States and Nigerian citizenship. The Nigerian Rugby Football Federation has been looking for overseas players eligible to compete for Nigeria as a way to boost their efforts to qualify for the Rio Olympics and they are happy to have Danjuma and Temitope back in the team. Nigeria will face Ghana, Morrocco, Cote d’ Ivoire, Mali and host Togo in the Tournament to that would start on Saturday, June 6, 2015.

Obafemi’s injury not serious

-rays carried out on former Nigeria international, Obafemi Martins, have revealed that the Seattle Sounders forward injury is not serious as there is no fracture, but he has suffered a “tibia contusion.” Seattle Sounders coach Sigi Schmid said the Nigeria striker is as good as out of the trip to Vancouver Whitecaps. “He’s still in a little bit of pain. It’s a leg injury,” Schmid disclosed. Martins has scored six goals in the Major League Soccer (MLS) this season.

RESULTS

Barclays Premier League Southampton 6 - 1 Aston Villa Burnley 0 - 0 Stoke City QPR 2 - 1 Newcastle Sunderland 0 - 0 Leicester Tottenham 2 - 0 Hull City West Ham 1 - 2 Everton Liverpool 1 - 3 C/Palace Germany - Bundesliga Augsburg 1 - 2 Hannover Leverkusen 2 - 0 Hoffenheim Freiburg 2 - 1 Bayern Hertha Berlin 0 - 0 Frankfurt Mainz 2 - 0 FC Cologne Schalke 1 - 0 Paderborn Stuttgart 2 - 1 Hamburger Wolfsburg 2 - 1 Dortmund Bremen 0 - 2 Mo’gladbach Italy - Serie A Inter1 - 2 Juventus Scotland Premiership Dundee FC 1 - 1 Aberdeen Inverness 3 - 0 Dundee Utd Partick Thistle 1 - 4 Kilmarnock Ross County 2 - 1 Hamilton Academical St. Mirren 2 - 1 Motherwell

Man Utd v Arsenal: Gunners target away win since 2006

rsene Wenger has stressed the importance of avoiding a UEFA Champions League play-off spot as Arsenal visit Manchester United in the Premier League today. Wenger’s men travel to Old

Trafford today knowing that a first away league win at United since 2006 will see them secure a top-three finish ahead of Louis van Gaal’s side. Arsenal, who will take heart from triumphing 2-1 at United in

the FA Cup in March, have contested a play-off in seven of their last nine Champions League campaigns and squeaked through 1-0 on aggregate against Besiktas at the start of 2014-15. Victory over United would see

England striker Harry Kane holds off a tackle from Hull’s Stephen Quinn as Tottenham piled on the misery for Steve Bruce’s side...on Saturday

Emenike stays back in Europe

uper Eagles striker, Emmanuel Emenike, has rejected the deal to join Qatari club Umm Salal. It was gathered that, though plans have been concluded to leave the Turkish league giants, Fenerbahce, but the player is not ready to leave Europe just yet. “Emenike is not going to join any team in Asia, one thing that is certain is that he will leave Fen-

erbahce this summer, but he will remain in a top league in Europe,” our source disclosed. The 2013 Africa Nations Cup top scorer has netted four goals in an indifferent season that has seen him lose the favour of the Fenerbache fans. He is now being linked to several clubs including former club Spartak Moscow.

he third edition of IAAFsanctioned Okpekpe 10 kilometer Road Race took place on Saturday with five athletes from Kenya dominating the event which was held at the Etsako East Local Council Area of Edo state. The Okpekpe Race which falls

under the Bronze category of the International Athletics Federation events saw the Kenyans having a clear-out in the top three positions in the female category and two of the three in the male class. Fast runner, Tanui Aifele, won the gold in the female category breasting the tape at 33.34 minutes. She was followed by Rion-

Code of conduct returns to Eagles

he Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has re-introduced a code of conduct designed to ensure players and officials adhere to same set of rules while representing the West African country. The code has been devised by the NFF and the 18-page document spells out the obligations of the football authority, coaches and players called up to the national team at all levels. It also sets forth expected standards of behaviour for all players and makes it clear that violations could result in disciplinary action, fines, suspensions or even expulsions. An attempt to introduce it ahead

of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil was met with stiff resistance from players. But the NFF is desperate to avoid a repeat of the bonus rows that led to players boycotting training at last year’s World Cup in Brazil, and before that almost caused the Super Eagles to miss the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup. “In the interest of the nation and as a means of regulating the conduct of players and officials representing the country at any point in time, the NFF Executive Committee endorsed a proposal for all players and officials of the National Teams to sign a Code of Conduct,” the NFF said in a statement.

Flying Eagles: Awoniyi’s unstoppable

Kenyans dominate Okpekpe Road Race Cajetan Mmuta Benin

them seal direct qualification for the group stages. Wenger said: “It’s very important for your season preparations to not have that kind of stress about the Champions League qualifier over your head from the first day you start again - it’s vital. “The consequences are always dramatic if you don’t qualify. What is even more important now is that the international competitions force you most of the time to start the new season without your players. You cannot give them a long enough rest when they have played international games. You know that in England we have no break in the winter. That’s sometimes difficult to deal with.” Arsenal are two points clear and have a game in hand on fourthplaced United, who overcame Crystal Palace 2-1 last weekend. Only a huge swing in goal difference can see United miss out on the top four due to their six-point advantage over Liverpool with two games left and Van Gaal’s men appear well set to challenge for the title next season following the signing of striker Memphis Depay last week.

oripo, while Mary Wacere came third the duo winning the silver and bronze medals respectively. Master Alex Korio came first in the male category after finishing at 29.20 minutes to beat other runners and was followed by Leish Gabreselaise of Ethiopia while Amos Mutei (Kenyan) came third. Korio who was elated by his feat had commended the organisers of the event for their consistency in packaging the world class race. He also pledged to participate in future events. In his words, “I am very happy and this is a race for Africa. I thank the organisers. It is to motivate us Africans as the race was very competitive.” The top winners in both male and female categories took home $25,000, $15,000 and $10,000 respectively. In his speech Governor Adams Oshiomhole who also participated in the Executive (VIP) category called on the private sector to shift their attention towards exploiting the sponsorship of sports competitions. He added that, huge potentials are available in the sleepy Okpekpe community.

he Flying Eagles won their second straight test game in Germany convincingly when they trounced Nurnberg U-19 team 5-0 with Taiwo Awoniyi grabbing another hat-trick. Awoniyi scored thrice in Tuesday’s first test game win against Hoffenheim U-23 team and he was again the tormentor-in-chief with three first-half goals against a team who the Flying Eagles overpowered, out ran and out thought for all 90 minutes at the weekend. Team’s coach, Manu Garba, lined-up his strongest team in the first 45 minutes and they began to deliver as early as the third minute when Awoniyi cashed in on a loose ball to hit target. Awoniyi was then denied by the Nurnberg goalkeeper on 13 minutes in a one-on-one situation. The lanky striker from Imperial Football Academy made it 2-0 in the 18th minute when the goalkeeper mistimed a long ball by Ifeanyi Ifeanyi and he literally strolled home to score. Awoniyi was the last man to touch the ball as Kingsley Sokari fired at goal in the 28thminute to complete his treble. A minute later, Sokari came close, before on the stroke of half time skipper Musa Muhammed made it 4-0 when he scored from a free kick after Godwin savior was fouled on the edge of the box. Flying Eagles made four changes at the start of the second half – Chidiebere Nwakali for Musa Muhammed, Musa Yahaya for Bernard Bulbwa, Alhassan Ibrahim ‘Muazam’ for Awoniyi and Abdullahi Alfa for Sokari.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 17 MAY, 2015

A DV ERT R AT E S BLACK & WHITE

COLOUR SIZE F/Page H/Page Q/Page 14x5 14x4 14x2 13x5 13x3 12x4 12x2 11x5 11x4 11x3 10x6 10x5 10x4 10x3 10x2 9x5 9x3 8x2 7x5 7x2 6x6 6x3 6x2 5x5 5x3 5x2 4x2 3x6 3x2 2x6 2x2 2x1 1x1 2x6 FPS 2x6 BPS 2x2 Ear Piece

RATE 532,000 315,000 172,000 455,000 364,000 182,000 422,500 253,500 312,000 156,000 357,500 286,000 214,500 390,000 325,000 260,000 195,000 130,000 292,500 175,500 104,000 227,500 91,000 252,000 117,000 78,000 162,500 97,500 65,000 52,000 126,000 39,000 84,000 26,000 13,000 6,500 585,000 550,000 225,000

VAT 26,600 15,750 6,600 22,750 18,200 9,100 21,125 12,675 15,600 7,800 17,875 14,300 10,725 19,500 16,250 13,000 9,750 6,500 14,625 8,775 5,200 11,375 4,550 12,600 5,850 3,900 8,125 4,875 3,250 2,600 6,300 1,950 4,200 1,300 650 325 29,250 27,500 11,250

TOTAL 558,600 330,750 180,600 477,750 382,200 191,100 443,625 266,175 327,600 163,800 375,375 300,300 225,225 409,500 341,250 273,000 204,750 136,500 307,125 184,275 109,200 238,875 95,550 264,000 122,850 81,900 170,625 102,375 68,250 54,600 132,300 40,950 88,200 27,300 13,650 6,825 614,250 577,500 236,250

LOOSE INSERTS Rate / 1000 copies (1 Sheet) Rate / 1000 copies (Magazines) Handling Charge / 50000 copies Change of Name/Box

RATE 45,000 90,000 250,000 4,500

SIZE F/Page H/Page Q/Page 14x5 14x4 14x2 13x5 13x3 12x4 12x2 11x5 11x4 11x3 10x6 10x5 10x4 10x3 10x2 9x5 9x3 8x4 8x2 7x5 7x2 6x6 6x3 6x2 5x5 5x3 5x2 4x6 4x2 3x6 3x3 3x2 2x6 2x2 2x1 1x1

PRODUCT RATE VAT 398,600 19,930 230,000 11,500 118,500 5,925 308,000 15,400 264,400 12,320 123,200 6,160 286,000 14,300 171,600 8,580 211,200 10,560 105,600 5,280 242,000 12,100 193,600 9,680 145,200 7,260 264,000 13,200 220,000 11,000 176,000 8,800 132,000 6,600 88,000 4,400 198,000 9,900 118,800 5,940 140,800 7,040 70,400 3,520 154,000 7,700 61,600 3,080 187,200 9,360 79,200 3,960 52,800 2,640 110,000 5,500 66,000 3,300 44,000 2,200 124,800 6,240 35,200 1,760 93,600 4,680 39,600 1,980 26,400 1,320 62,400 3,120 17,600 880 8,800 440 4,400 220

VAT 2,250 4,500 12,500 225

TOTAL 418,530 241,500 124,425 323,400 258,720 129,360 300,300 180,180 221,760 110,880 254,100 203,280 152,460 277,200 231,000 184,800 138,600 92,400 207,900 124,740 147,840 73,920 161,700 64,680 196,650 83,160 55,440 115,500 69,300 46,200 131,040 36,960 98,280 41,580 27,720 65,520 18,480 9,240 4,620

SIZE F/Page H/Page Q/Page 14X5 14X4 13X5 12X4 11X4 10X6 10X5 10X3 9X4 8X3 8X2 7X4 7X2 6X3 6X2 5X2 4X2 3X6 3X2 2X6 2X2 2X1 1X1

RATE

5% VAT

TOTAL

20,000,000.00

1,000,000.00

21,000,000.00

10x6 FP

8,500,000.00

425,000.00

8,925,000.00

Half Page FP

5,750,000.00

287,500.00

6,037,500.00

4x6 FP

2,800,000.00

140,000.00

2,940,000.00

2x6 Under Masthead

1,550,000.00

77,500.00

1,627,500.00

10x6 BP

7,200,000.00

360,000.00

7,560,000.00

Half Page BP

4,850,000.00

242,500.00

5,092,500.00

4x6 BPS

1,425,000.00

71,250.00

1,496,250.00

Full Wrap

TOTAL 446,250 257,250 143,430 411,600 329,280 382,200 282,240 258,720 252,800 294,000 176,400 211,680 141,120 94,080 164,640 82,320 105,840 70,560 58,800 47,040 111,510 35,280 74,340 23,520 11,760 5,880

PROPERTY / ICT / VACANCY ADVERTS F/Page H/Page Q/Page 14x5 13x4 10x5 9x3 2x6 6x2 2x2 1x1

TOTAL 47,250 95,000 262,500 4,725

WRAP AROUND SIZE

PUBLIC NOTICE RATE VAT 425,000 21,250 245,000 12,250 136,600 6,830 392,000 19,600 313,600 15,680 364,000 18,200 268,800 13,440 246,400 12,320 336,000 16,800 280,000 14,000 168,000 8,400 201,600 10,080 134,400 6,720 89,600 4,480 156,800 7,840 78,400 3,920 100,800 5,040 67,200 3,360 56,000 2,800 44,800 2,240 106,200 5,310 33,600 1,680 70,800 3,540 22,400 1,120 11,200 560 5,600 280

DESCRIPTION Pages 2 & 3 (75% surcharge) Pages 4- 8 (50% surcharge) Pages 9-11 (25% surcharge) Back Page Centrespread Doublespread Halft Centrespread Half Doublespread

350,000 185,000 95,000 294,000 218,400 210,000 113,400 54,000 50,400 21,000 4,200

17,500 9,250 4,750 14,700 10,920 10,500 5,670 2,700 2,520 1,050 210

367,500 194,250 99,750 308,700 229,320 220,500 119,070 56,700 52,920 22,050 4,410

SERIES DISCOUNT 5-10 Insertions 2.5% 11-15 Insertions 5.0% 16-20 Insertions 7.5% 20-30 Insertions 10% INSIDE PAGES RATE 931,000.00 798,000.00 665,000.00 5,000,000.00 1,330,000.00 1,197,000.00 831,500.00 750,000.00

5% VAT 46,550.00 39,900.00 33,250.00 250,000.00 66,500.00 59,850.00 41,575.00 37,500.00

TOTAL 977,550.00 837,900.00 698,250.00 5,250,000.00 1,396,500.00 1,256,850.00 873,075.00 787,500.00

OTHER SPECIAL REQUEST ATTRACTS 25% SURCHARGE OF THE SIZE VALUE

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SPORT Taribo: As a pastor, I am a coach

THE SUNDAY MAGAZINE

Sanctity of Truth

SUNDAY

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

}59

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015

N150

Soldiers didn’t allow us open our father’s coffin – Tafawa Balewa’s son }5

Era of decampment (2):Carpet-crossing The Nigerian C Project MEANING OF CARPET CROSSING

arpet crossing is actually a Nigerian coinage for “crossing the floor”. According to Wikipedia, crossing the floor has two meanings referring to a change of allegiance in a Westminster system parliament. The term originated from the British House of Commons, which is configured with the scenario of the Government and Opposition facing each other on rows of benches. An MP who switched parties would naturally need to cross the floor. A notable example of the latter is former Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, who crossed the floor from the Conservatives to the Liberals in 1904, before later crossing back in 1924. In the United Kingdom, Canada, and other Western countries, the term is also used to describe leaving one’s party entirely and joining another party, such as leaving an opposition party to support the government (or vice versa); or even leaving one opposition party to join another. In both Canada and the United Kingdom, the term carries only this meaning, and is not used for a simple vote against the party line on a bill. In April 2006, the premier of Manitoba, Canada, Gary Doer (NDP), proposed a ban on crossing the floor of the Manitoba legislature. According to Mr Doer, this move came in response to “the concern some voters have expressed over the high-profile defections of three federal MPs from their parties in just over two years.” According to Macafee, Michelle, the resulting legislation, which amended the provincial Legislative Assembly Act, mandated that Members of the Legislature who quit their political party to serve out the remainder of their term as independents. An extraordinary example occurred in Alberta, Canada, in December, 2014, when Danielle Smith, the leader of the official opposition Wildrose Party, and eight of her MLAs crossed the floor together to join the governing Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta. Crossing the floor or Carpet-Crossing by politicians in Nigeria did not just start yesterday. It has been a part and parcel of the Nigerian politics even before the country’s independence. The only difference is that it was recently re-enacted with such swagger, panache and flamboyance as if it was a virtue to be celebrated. HISTORY OF CARPET CROSSING IN NIGERIA THE FIRST REPUBLIC In Nigeria, nine years before independence, that is, in 1951, led by the Great “Zik of Africa”, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, several members of the now defunct NCNC, National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons played a political gimick by decamping overnight to the old AG, Action Group, for the purpose of denying NCNC the majority in the Western Region House of Assembly as a result of which the AG was able to form the ruling Government. This political gymnastics, led Dr. Azikiwe to tactically relocate to the Eastern Region to form the ruling Government. According to Ademola Adewale, this singular political event was to lead to permanent mistrust not only between the two great and illustrious nationalists, Awolowo and Azikiwe, but even between their kinsmen, the Igbos and Yorubas, which mutual feeling still persists till date. The suspicion of historical antiquity.

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only)

Wiliams

there were a number of high profile carpet crossings. Chief Akin Omoboriowo moved from UPN, Unity Party of Nigeria, led by Chief Awolowo, to NPN, National Party of Nigeria. There was also the Carpet crossing by Chief Fagbamigbe also of former Ondo State from UPN to NPN. Late Senator Lai Joseph from Old Oyo State, moved from UPN to NPN. Senator N.N. Anah, SAN, of the defunct Nigeria Peoples Party, moved from NPP to NPN. It is pertinent to state that these Carpet-crossings were not without some regrettable incidents. First, in former Ondo State, notable publisher, Chief Fagbamigbe was hacked to death and Chief Akin Omoboriowo, former Deputy Governor Old Ondo State under UPN barely escaped death, leading him to swiftly relocate to Lagos. THE THIRD REPUBLIC It is to be observed that although there were carpet crossings during the first and second republics, the rate of such has dramatically increased and reached a frightening crescendo since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. Some have been more than a hand-

ful, although with less dramatic results in comparison with the second republic. For example, Senator Wahab Dosummu from Alliance for Democracy, AD, moved to the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Musuliu Obanikoro moved from AD to PDP; Dr Kingsley Ogunlewe from AD to PDP. Late Funsho Williams also defected from AD to PDP. Former Governors Bola Tinubu, Lam Adesina, Bisi Akande cross-carpetted from AD to AC (Action Congress), and Tinubu later returned to All Prgressive Congress (APC). Which he co-founded. Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar defected from PDP to AC, and then back to PDP and now to APC. Governor Segun Mimiko decamped from PDP, to Labour party and back to PDP again, whilst Governor Rochas Okorocha defected from PDP to ANPP, to APGA, then to APC. President Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari carpet crossed from ANPP to CPC, and then to APC; former President Olusengun Obansanjo tore his PDP card and became a defacto member of APC, amongst others. While some of these cross-carpetings or carpet-crossings, or defections were roundly condemned, particularly the defection from the smaller parties like AD or AC to PDP, the defections from the PDP to smaller parties or of so called progressives from either the PDP to the smaller parties, or from one party to the other, were greeted with much approval and celebrations. It is usual amongst the nation’s progressives and their supporters to denounce carpet crossers in the strongest terms possible as political prostitutes and opportunists who do not have the interest of the electorate at heart, except their own selfish interests. But, the so called progressives themselves having been caught up in the recent wave of defections from their original parties to others, it no longer lies in their mouth to freely sermonize and poutificate on the ills of carpet crossing. In the build up to the 2007 elections, there was wholesale defection of self-styled progres-

BUSY BODY

sive from the otherwise progressive AD to form a new party called Action Congress (AC), with no ideological basis for the shift except positioning to capture power, which is however legitimate. However, the “progressives” having carried on for long as if all defections were evil, it did the reputation of the progressives constituency, no good that they could engage in large scale defections on a scale even their opponents would have been embarrassed to contemplate. REASONS WHY POLITICIANS DEFECT OR CROSS CARPET According to Ademola Adewale, Nigerian politicians carpet-cross for a number of reasons: • To have better access to power and the spoils of office. • To escape political oppression and persecution. • As a result of a breakdown in the aims and objectives amongst the founding fathers of a party. • As a tactical and strategic political retreat to re-launch a political agenda on another platform. • For ideological reasons, when the initial platform has derailed from the ideals which inspired like minds to join the party and bring to bear these lofty ideals in the service of the people. Defections based on these ideal are few and far between in Nigeria. Defections in Nigeria are mainly amala, gbegir, akpu and tuwo shinkafa – driven. I am again, in agreement with Ademola Adewale, who opines that one of the reasons for the reckless carpet-crossings by Nigerian politicians is that principally, there is no ideological difference between Nigerian political parties. Even parties that make a big show of being radical and progressive, when it comes to the nitty-gritty, show a totally abysmal lack of understanding of the basic tenets of democracy. Other reasons adduced for such shamelessness are absence of free and fair primaries, imposition of candidates, lack of internal democracy and transparency. The Saving grace for a handful of credible parties is the presence of a few visionary leaders who come to personify the parties and whose exemplary leadership above the general rot is extrapolated to give the impression that the whole party is progressive and forward looking, whereas the differences between the parties, if any, is more cosmetic than substantive, more like the difference between six and a half-dozen.

• Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

By Aliu Eroje

THE SECOND REPUBLIC In the 2nd Republic, between 1979 and 1983, 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 Hotlines: (Lagos 0902 928 1425), (Abuja 0805 5118488), Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: EMEKA MADUNAGU.