Saturday, april 11, 2015

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SATURDAY Saturday, April 11, 2015

Vol. 2 No. 416

Sanctity of Truth

N150 /newtelegraph

Chinelo Ikeme

From banking to selling natural hair

} 13

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

FUNNYBONE

} 19

A comedian’s rough ride to fame

GUBER WAR Across the states, candidates of opposing parties battle for number one slot

lFactors that would shape the governorship and Assemblies elections lThe battleground states } 5

AKINWUNMI AMBODE LAGOS

JIMI AGBAJE LAGOS

IFEANYI OKOWA DELTA

GREAT OGBORU DELTA

UDOM EMMANUEL AKWA IBOM

UMANA UMANA AKWA IBOM

MUKHTAR YERO KADUNA

NASIR EL-RUFAI KADUNA

IBIKUNLE AMOSUN OGUN

GBOYEGA ISIAKA OGUN

NUHU RIBADU ADAMAWA

MUHAMMAD JIBRILLA ADAMAWA

ABDULLAH WALI SOKOTO

ROCHAS OKOROCHA IMO

EMEKA IHEDIOHA IMO

NYESOM WIKE RIVERS

DAKUKU PETERSIDE RIVERS

AMINU TAMBUWAL SOKOTO

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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Contents | 11.04.15 CONVERSATION

Banking on Hair Chinelo Linda Ikeme, founder of the upscale Lagos-based hair shop, My Hair Limited, talks about quitting her banking job for the hair business

}13

INSTYLE

Shimmering Sequins With sequin gowns, you can have a flamboyant look, but you have to be careful when accessorising because with sequins, less is more

}15

SHOWBIZ

Funny Tales Stanley Chibuna’s (Funnybone) rise to fame as a comedian is credit to his grit and creativity.

He speaks about his rough road to stardom

}19

TV&RADIO

Giving the Talk Some Push Walk the Talk, a programme on Channels Television that seeks to use personally affirming message to inspire lifestyle is becoming an audience favourite since its debut

}18

SPORT

No Fears over Zambia Nigeria’s U-23 coach, Samson Siasia, said despite the scoreless draw against Zambia in Abuja, he’s confident his team would triumph in the second leg

}25

DESTINATION

Mozambique’s Allure From enchanting and alluring beaches to bewildering wildlife, a Saturday Telegraph’s correspondent recounts a visit to Mozambique

}22 Plus: Perspectives 53 | Investigations 54

SATURDAY

T

Comment

Let our votes count

he statesmanship displayed by President Goodluck Jonathan on March 31, following his loss to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari in the Presidential elections will live with democracy for a long time.

In an unprecedented move, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag bearer, called his All Progressives Congress (APC) opponent, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, on the phone, to congratulate him.

Dr. Jonathan made it clear before the poll that our votes must count. And he lived up to his word by that most commendable move which not only restored confidence in the polity but also showered flakes of calm all over the country.

That the world is eulogising Jonathan today, shows that all eyes were on the country, as we went to cast our votes at a time there were sundry predictions of chaos and disintegration. It actually sounded like there would be no Nigeria after March 28.

The import of the president’s position is that whatever the people decide through the ballot box, should stand.

Others in his position could have decided to distort the figures, in the bid to hang on to power even if it meant setting the entire nation on fire.

As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Dr. Jonathan could have used the military to advantage, irrespective of what their involvement would bring. It is unNigerian for a sitting president to give up in a fight before the final whistle.

Compatriots must therefore learn from Jonathan, as we go for another round of elections today. No politician, no matter how highly placed, has the right to deny voters the power to exercise their civic responsibility. Nigerians will choose their leaders, that is why we are in a democracy.

It is one man, one vote. The era of thumb-printing in the guarded home of one local government chairman or in the distant guest house of a governor is over. The ballot boxes belong to voters.

Thugs who always look for opportunity to snatch them, should not be given any breathing space.

While accredited security officers

are duty bound to provide security, those who have no business around the polling booths should either stay home or stay away completely. It is the duty of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide logistics.

Political appointees, from Local government councilors to ministers and governors, if truly they are democrats and believe in what they are offering the people, should also feel free with their constituents. Therefore, it is offensive for such office holders to move around with escorts today, in the guise of monitoring the exercise.

In the past, such convoy movements were used as cover to manipulate voters and concoct results. Voters must make sure that their polling booths are not populated by siren-blaring vehicles and questionable characters who do not belong to the neighbourhood.

We understand our peculiar circumstances and the corollary handicap.

INEC officials may have challenges especially in somewhat difficult terrains. Voters should remain calm while awaiting the arrival of personnel and material. And when such delays occur, they must not dampen the enthusiasm of people who would have waited for long hours, come rain, come shine.

For those who have sold their souls to thuggery, they deserve to learn from recent events. Some of the politicians who plan to use them, do not in any way have any feelings for them. At best, a thug is used and dumped at will.

Anyone who dies in the process, is gone for good while those who hired them go about making peace with the so-called opponents, win or lose.

It is crazy for a youngmen to break their heads for politicians whose children do not even stay around to witness the elections. No office seeker or holder is worth the blood of any Nigerian.

President Jonathan has shown us the way. A leader blazes the trail, followers join the train. On March 28, our votes counted. Let the trend continue. Your vote is your right. Nigerians, our votes cannot be bought with bowls of rice.

Let us arise and put the right people in right places.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

SATURDAY

Nigeria

5

Decision day for PDP A

The outcome of today's gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections will decide the future of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). ONYEKACHI EZE looks at the chances of the party in retaining some of the states under its control or even winning more.

fter losing the presidency for the first time in 16 years, another opportunity beckons on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to redeem its image. Today's governorship and House of Assembly elections present an opportunity for the party to continue to be relevant, for the next four years despite the gale of defections that hit it in the past one week.

PDP is presently in control of 17 out of 29 states where today's governorship election will hold while the in-coming government at centre, the All Progressives Congress (APC) controls 12 Elections will not hold in seven states, four of which are under PDP, APC has two while the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) is in control of one.

The ability of the party to win more states or even retain the number it presently controls will keep the hope alive that it might form the government at the centre in 2019.

In the March 28 presidential election, PDP lost in 11 out of the 21 states it has a sitting governor while APC lost four of its states to PDP. If the result of the presidential election is anything to go by, PDP may likely lose most of its states in the governorship.

Again, given the number of people who left the PDP for APC, the chances of the party to do well in today's elections is very slim. Members of the party are yet to recover from the shock of losing the presidency, and the fear of being in the opposition has forced most of them to jump boat.

APC is also trying to boost its chances by drafting the President-elect, Major-General (rtd) General Muhammadu Buhari, to the campaign hoping that his presence will attract more electorate to its governorship candidates.

But there are some factors that might affect the outcome of the elections. Of course, APC knows that there is much difference between presidential and governorship elections, at least in Nigerian contest.

In 2011, Buhari, who ran on the platform of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) won in most of states in the North but the party won only one state, Nasarawa in the governorship two weeks after.

Incidentally, Buhari lost in the state in 2015.

The rest of the states were shared between PDP and now defunct All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP). PDP won 15 while ANPP won three.

South-East/South-South At present, the strength of PDP is in the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones. APC is in control of three states in these two zones - Edo, Imo and Rivers.

Today's governorship election will hold in Imo and Rivers states while only House of Assembly will hold in Edo State.

The contest in Rivers will be stiff and competitive. Though, PDP scored 1, 487, 075 votes to APC's 69, 238 in the presiden-

aspired to go to the Senate lost.

The party may give a good account of itself but whether this will be enough to win Niger and Benue states is different thing altogether.

PDP had be in control of Kwara State since 2003 until the defection of Governor Abdulfatai Ahmed to APC in 2013. This time, it is doubtful if the party will recover the state from APC. The combined forces of the governor and Senator Bukola Saraki, a former governor of the state will be difficult to handle.

The only hope left for the party is Plateau and Nasarawa states. Although, PDP won the two states in the presidential election, it could only boast of Plateau. Despite the adoption of APC governorship candidate by other political parties, the people of the state may not be too willing to align politically with Hausa/Fulani elements, which to them APC now represents.

If PDP loses Nasarawa State in the governorship election it may be because of bandwagon effect not because of the performance of Governor Tanko Al-Makura who is seeking a re-election.

Plateau is the only state PDP will win the governorship election today.

A voter casting his vote in the last presidential election

tial poll, the outcome of the election is still being contested. APC accused the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Ms Gesilia Khan of colluding with PDP to rig the election.

The governorship election will be different. APC's undoing was the boycotting of the presidential election for alleged absence of result sheets. It may not make such mistake during the governorship.

Though APC is in control of the state, PDP is likely to win the Rivers State governorship for a number of reasons.

First, Rivers is a PDP state. Again, Governor Chibuike Amaechi and APC governorship candidate, Dakuku Peterside may not be able to contain the coalition of forces comprising former governors Peter Odili and Celestine Omehia and former deputy speakers of House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche and Austin Okpara among others who had thrown their weight behind the PDP governorship candidates, Nysom Wike.

The election may turnout bloody on both sides but PDP will carry the day.

Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State who worked so hard to singlehandedly deliver 133, 253 votes to APC in the presidential election despite allegation of intimidation by the military may prove his mettle in the governorship. His chances are further boosted by the support drum for him by the caretak-

er committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. This will attract some undecided voters to his side.

The situation in Imo State is however, still uncertain. It is a three-horse race between the APC, the PDP governorship candidate, Emeka Ihedioha and the candidate of APGA, Captain Emmanuel Iheanocho.

APGA supported PDP in the presidential election, which got 559, 185 votes. It may be a different ball game in the governorship when the parties will go its separate ways.

APGA may try to prove that its victory in 2011 in Imo State was not a fluke by reclaiming its mandate taken to APC by Okorocha.

PDP on the other hand will attempt to prove that it has the number to swing victory to its side.

Apart from these two states, the remaining six states where governorship election will hold in the South East and South-South geopolitical zones will go to PDP. North-Central PDP had been in control of most states in this zone since 1999 but recent events may prove otherwise in this election. For instance, Benue and Niger States might go to APC in this election owing to bad governance. A foretaste of what to expect happened during the National Assembly election. APC won most of the seats in these states. Even the two outgoing PDP governors, Gabriel Suswam (Benue) and Babangida Aliyu (Niger) who

South-West Winning any of the three states in SouthWest where governorship election will hold will be a tall order for PDP. The situation in Lagos State is still dicey.

PDP had been unable to win a seat in Lagos State until this year. The party's performance in the last National Assembly election where it won five House Assembly seats gave the PDP hope that with little effort it can win the state.

The party is banking on non-indigenes to win the governorship. PDP is capitalising on the threat credited to Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Akiolu against the Igbo in the state to mobilise non-indigenes to vote for its candidate, Jimi Agbaje.

Governors Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) and Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) are likely going to be re-elected today.

House of Assembly elections will only hold in Ondo, Ekiti and Osun states.

North-West The North-West will go to APC despite the fact that PDP is in control of four out of seven states in the zone. If there is any state PDP will win in the zone it is Jigawa because of Sule Lamido. But this is doubtful.

North-East Except Taraba State, North-East will probably vote for APC in the governorship election. Gombe State where PDP was also hoping to win because of the governor is seeking a re-election but the massive defections of members to APC may rob PDP victory in the state.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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11 april 2015

It's Wike, Peterside in Rivers Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

A

s far as today’s governorship election is concerned in Rivers State, three candidates stand out. In no particular order, the candidates are Dr. Dakuku Peterside of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Tonye Princewill of the Labour Party (LP) and Barr.

Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

At a point in their political careers, Peterside and Princewill were members of the PDP; unlike Wike, who has remained with the party from the period he was the council boss of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area from 1999 to when he finished serving as a minister in late 2014. While Peterside joined the APC with Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and others in 2013 after Felix Obuah had taken over the leadership of the PDP from Chief Godspower Ake, the governor’s right hand man. Wike, who is now addressed as party leader, wants to prove that Rivers is a PDP state.

For Princewill, who contested in 2007, lost to Amaechi, but later teamed up with the governor rather than going to the tribunal, his major selling point is job creation, and human capacity development. He has distinguished himself in some of the debates with his notion of purposeful leadership, which he argues has eluded the state.

He has not been silent despite the presence of Wike and Peterside, and feels he has a good chance to prove that he is more popular than people think. He is youthful, energetic and appears to know the necessary steps that should be taken to move the state forward.

Princewill knows that it will be difficult to win the governorship election despite his bright chances. The realities on the ground prove that the governorship race is strictly between Wike and Peterside. In the state’s history, according to observers, no governorship election has generated the kind of animosity that today’s election has generated in terms of divisions, hate messages and violence. Dozens of party members across divides have been murdered and injured.

On April 8, exactly three days to the election, the leadership of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and some Ijaw elders rained insults at each other and almost fought at Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, on who the Ijaw should vote for. Problem started when INC’s President General, Barr.

Boma Oboforibo, endorsed Peterside on behalf of the Ijaw at an event he and some Ijaw leaders organised. But some Ijaw elders charged straight to the high table, and expressed their displeasure over the endorsement.

They equally exchanged harsh words with Oboforibo, arguing that there was no time the Ijaw agreed to vote for Peterside.

They also accused Oboforibo, and others of sell-out, because Peterside did nothing for the Ijaw throughout the years he spent in government.

Oboforibo had argued that the Ikwerre have had their opportunity at governance, and that based on the principle of zoning, the Ijaw and other tribes in the state should vote Peterside, and not Wike, the governorship candidate of the PDP. He had ordered one of the elders on the high table to read a communiqué, which the Ijaw had issued to endorse Peterside almost two years ago. Parts of the communiqué read:

Wike

“Following the resolutions and communiqués of the INC Eastern Zone, in past programmes held in October 2013, June and September 2014, we hereby reiterate our resolve to endorse a governorship candidate of Ijaw extraction without prejudice to the political party, in the spirit of fairness, good faith and conscience which have guided Rivers people in electing our past leaders.

“In the light of this, and in line with the time-honoured principle of power rotation, the Ijaw National Conference, Eastern zone, the authentic voice of Ijaw people, Ijaw elders, have endorsed Dr. Dakuku Peterside of the APC as the preferred, most viable and qualified candidate of all.”

The most vocal of them, Elder Marcus Anga, who is the secretary of the INC in Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, and coordinator for the creation of Oil Rivers State, said that Peterside stands for anything Ijaw, adding that as a commissioner, Peterside demolished the only school in Ogu for reconstruction, but failed to keep his promise.

“They just send us a text to attend this event. They refused to support Jonathan an Ijaw son, and now they are saying that the Ijaw should vote for Peterside. What has he done to deserve our votes? Wike built a school for us and many other Ijaw communities as the minister for education, and you are saying that we should not vote for him.”

Wike recently told his supporters not to lose sleep over today’s election because “nobody can stop us from winning.” He added: “Let them (APC) be in charge of the Army, Navy or anything, they cannot win this election. If (Governor Rotimi) Amaechi likes, let him bring secretary general of the United Nations (Ban Ki moon) or (Attahiru) Jega, the chairman of INEC to conduct the election, APC will fail again today.”

Wike also warned that if the APC rigs the governorship election, “they will rig their lives,” alleging that the

Peterside

In the state’s history, according to observers, no governorship election has generated the kind of animosity that today’s election has generated

state government was scheming to shift the election until the Presidentelect, Major-General (rtd) Muhammadu Buhari is sworn into office.

“They don’t want election to be conducted until Buhari is sworn in.

It will not work. We must hold election in Rivers State,” he said.

At a pact signing supervised by the police a few days to the election, Wike, Peterside and their supporters threw allegations back and forth, so much so that the Commissioner of Police, Hosea Kamas, had to intervene to prevent it from escalating to fisticuff.

Temper rose when Wike responded to comments made by the APC chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, who said that the APC had lost confidence in Mrs. Gesila Khan, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), because she works for the PDP. Ibiamu also alleged that Khan had recruited card-carrying members of the PDP as INEC ad-hoc staff so that they can manipulate election results in favour of the PDP, and that Khan had repeatedly turned down the party’s request to “properly identify the genuine youth corps members.”

Ikanya stated: "She has repeatedly turned down our request to verify the list of the ad-hoc staff. She has substituted 50 per cent of the original names with members of the PDP. At the presidential election, we did not see result sheets. How can there be peace when she has bluntly refused to listen to our complaints."

But Wike, who dismissed Ikanya’s allegation, equally alleged that he has information that the security agencies had concluded plans to collude with the APC to postpone the election, and conduct it after Buhari, would have been sworn in. "We need assurance that the security agencies and the APC are not planning to postpone the governorship election.

We also need assurance that the security agencies and the APC are not planning to do something that will

lead to the cancellation of the election that may lead to the election being conducted again under Buhari administration.

"We are fully prepared for the election. If they like let them bring the chairman of the APC to conduct the election, we will still win," he said.

The police commissioner who ensured the pact was signed, urged Wike and Peterside, to work on their supporters to be peaceful during the election.

He stressed: "Please tell all your supporters and followers to protect youth corps members. Ask your supporters to conduct themselves well. I urge you to guide against unguarded utterances.

Murder is murder, any of your supporter who kills anyone will be never go scot free. Whoever commits murder will be arrested and prosecuted."

Also present at the event were: Senator Magnus Abe; Dr. Tammy Danagogo, Minister of Sports; Kenneth Kobani, Minister of Trade and Industry; Desmond Akawor, director-general of Wike's campaign and Victor Giadon, director-general of Dakuku's campaign.

However, it may be difficult to predict the outcome of today’s election. Wike goes into the contest with the confidence that he mobilised other party stalwarts to ensure that the three senatorial seats, and the House of Representatives seat were cleared by the party. That is a big plus, and a confidence booster.

But there is a renewed resolve and confidence by Peterside and his supporters that the APC will win the state based on the victory of Buhari.

The Amaechi factor also counts, even though, one observer said that he was disappointed in the presidential election. In the last few days before the election, he launched a fresh campaign, telling the people of the state that the security operatives, who allegedly worked against the APC two weeks ago, had repented.

Yet, the biggest factor and determinant of today's election may be the people. They have the final say.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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hree political parties in Benue State are fielding candidates for today's governorship election.

They are the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP). The APC has former Minister of State for Industries, Trade and Investment, Dr. Samuel Ortom as its candidate, the PDP is presenting former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mr. Terhemen Tarzoor, while the Labour Party has Dr. William Iorwuese Ligom, as its candidate.

Benue, being the hotbed of Middle Belt politics, promises to be explosive as the main political gladiators are pitched against one another for the soul of the state. While, the ruling PDP is struggling to retain the Makurdi Government House, the biggest opposition party, the APC, is poised to wrestle power from the PDP that has led the state since 1999. It is therefore a straight fight between the PDP and the APC. The Labour Party does not stand any chance of winning the election as the party is not onground in the state.

Ortom Ortom became a minister in July 2011.

He had served as the National Auditor of the PDP from March 2008 to June 2011.

He also served as chairman, Board of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) from 2009 to June 2011.

In the 2011 presidential election, Ortom was the director, Administration and Logistics, Goodluck-Sambo Campaign Organization.

In various other capacities in the past, he served as deputy chairman of the state chapter of the PDP from 2004 to 2008, at a time where he was part of a team that successfully midwifed the success of the party at different elections at all levels of government. In 2007, he also served the state chapter of the PDP as director of organisation, Suswam/Lawani Campaign Organisation, a gubernatorial electioneering effort that brought the present government to office in the state.

The former minister, who was born on April 23, 1961, was also at various times the state secretary of the PDP, state publicity secretary, National Centre Party of Nigeria (NCP) and state treasurer, All People’s Party (APP). His foray into governance started in 1991 when he was elected local government chairman. He served Guma LGA as thebchairman from 1991 to 1993, an office where his legacies became the cornerstone on which future administrations have built on.

The man Tarzoor Prince Tarzoor was born on January 26, 1972, and hails from Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State. In 2007, he was elected into the Benue State House of Assembly representing Makurdi North State constituency in the 2007 general elections. In the House, Tarzoor was first appointed House Committee chairman on agriculture and natural resources, during which period he also served as member, House Committees on Appropriation and Business and Rules.

Tarzoor was later appointed as the acting majority leader in 2009 while in 2010, he was appointed to chair the Ad-hoc Committee on Civil Service Pensions, Gratuity and Death Benefits. He ended the 6th Assembly as the chief whip of the House.

In 2011, Tarzoor sought a second term in office to return to the Assembly. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared him winner of the House of Assembly elections of April 2011 in his constituency. Back in the House, Tarzoor was unanimously endorsed by the elders of MINDA Intermediate Area as their preferred choice for the position of Speaker of the House. His second coming was however cut short as the Appeal Tribunal sitting in Makurdi later nullified the election.

Consequently, Tarzoor left the shores of Benue after his speakership. It was therefore hard to believe that he would win the

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Nigeria

11 april 2015

Ortom

Tarzoor

Ortom, APC set to take over Benue The All Progressives Congress (APC) leverages on the onslaught against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in today’s election in Benue State, PHILIP NYAM and CEPHAS IORHEMEN report. primaries. When it was time for Prophet Samuel to anoint a king, all the aspirants came out parading tall resumes, staggering wealth, and worldwide connections. Like David, it was the then younger Tarzoor who had no money to share that the delegates choose to fly the flag of the PDP. Most of the delegates confessed that they saw hope and a greater Benue in him.

Prior to the PDP primaries, a lot of people underestimated the candidature of Tarzoor. They were carried away with the giant aspirants.

Strengths and weaknesses The two leading gubernatorial candidates have their various strengths and weaknesses.

For Ortom, it is palatable to say that he has a strong war chest and his background as an old political warhorse has given him the edge over his PDP rival. Aside confessing a strong Christian he has the wherewithal to take the state to enviable heights if given the mandate to govern the state.

Most importantly, the perceived poor performance of the outgoing governor, Gabriel Suswam, has given Ortom a major boost in his bid to rule the state. Public servants in the state are at loggerheads with the governor for owing several months of salaries including pension. This has become the key campaign issue for the opposition APC. Benue is a predominantly agrarian and civil service state and political analysts said for a governor to have ignored such a large chunk of the state population means he has dug the grave of the PDP in the state. Suswam’s misunderstanding with civil servants became so glaring that he is reported to be jeered at public events including campaign rallies with the shouts of “pay our salary, we don’t want to hear anything.”

Ortom’s chances are also rooted in the fight of the titans between Governor Suswam and the duo of the Senate Minority Leader, Senator George Akume, and former national chairman of the PDP, Senator Barnabas Gemade. Many have agreed that this fight is the cause of the fall of PDP in Benue. Akume was instrumental for the emergence of Suswam as governor in 2007 but by 2011, Suswam forced Akume

The greatest beneficiary of these miscalculations

by Suswam is Ortom who was equally denied the PDP’s gubernatorial ticket by the governor, who preferred Tarzoor

out of the PDP; while the former governor moved over to the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and brought in Prof. Steve Ugbah who is largely believed to have defeated the governor at the April 2011 polls. Many believe that Akume is a force to reckon with and in fact the political leader of the state today.

Not done, Suswam again snatched Gemade’s senatorial ticket in a manner that was described as ‘embarrassing’ by the latter supporters. The bitterness between Gemade and Suswam cost the governor his senatorial bid even as the PDP lost both the presidential and National Assembly elections to the opposition for the first time since 1999. The greatest beneficiary of these miscalculations by Suswam is Ortom who was equally denied the PDP’s gubernatorial ticket by the governor, who preferred Tarzoor.

Akume being master strategists handed the APC ticket to Ortom, who is equally a grassroots man who started from a very humble background as a motor park tout.

Presidential/ National Assembly elections Following the outcome of the Presidential and National Assembly elections in the state and with the victory of General Muhammadu Buhari, the chances of Ortom winning the governorship election are now crystal clear. Since March 28, gladiators in the PDP from different zones in the state have been defecting to the APC. Zone C,

which is the stronghold of the PDP, has lost key members to the APC in the last two weeks including Gen. Lawrence Onoja.

Other renowned politicians in Idoma land such as Chief Obande Obeya are all with the APC and it is becoming clearer that the PDP will fall. Zone C is Senate President David Mark’s senatorial zone that has been delivering for PDP. But as things stands today, the APC is set to clear that zone thereby leaving PDP on a cliff hanger. Mark, is a national figure, but unfortunately very unpopular among his people and indeed the state. Hence, he cannot change the wave of change blowing across the state, which is being driven by Akume.

The defections are not limited to Zone C but they are across the entire state. In Zone A, where Suswam lost to Gemade, most of the political forces that supported him have changed ship to the APC. They include Major. Uke Wende (rtd), a retired permanent secretary, Hon. T.T. Ugese and a host of former chairmen of local governments including Gboko.

Tarzoor’s chances The PDP candidate’s case is akin to ‘paying for the sins of the father”. Tarzoor is likely to lose the election because of the disappointment of the average Benue man with the Suswam administration. And for the fact that the ruling party in the state failed to deliver the state to Jonathan on March 28; it's a minus against him. Tarzoor’s youthfulness and depth of exposure may have put him in a vantage position, but for the failures of PDP, he may be crushed by the APC. Both Tarzoor and Ortom are from the same area but the APC candidate is miles ahead of the former lawmaker in terms of political popularity. Tarzoor is indeed a minnow when it comes to politics and with Suswam heading his electioneering, he is as good as dead on arrival. Another factor is that if he wins, Benue will automatically become an opposition state, a development that has given Ortom an upper hand.

And with the eventual take-over of the state by the APC, the shape of the state House of Assembly has also been defined as the majority of seats are expected to be won by the APC.

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11 april 2015

Okowa, Ogboru, Emerhor for Big Heart Dominic Adewole ASABA

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ut of the nine candidates that were cleared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the governorship race in Delta State, only three can be considered highflying.

They are the Labour Party’s Great Ogboru, the All Progressives Congress’ O’tega Emerhor and the Peoples Democratic Party’s Ifeanyi Okowa.

Others are, Chief Emmanuel Ibordor of the All Peoples Grand Alliance (APGA) and Prince Joe Chukwu of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Oke Idawene of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Mr. Isamade Paul of the Allied Congress Party Nigeria (ACPN).

Okowa Senator Okowa hails from Owa-Oyibu in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state. Because of his antecedent in the surprises that are associated with partisan politics in the Big Heart state, he was nicknamed “the Ekwueme of Delta politics.”

In preparation for the return of the country to democratic rule in 1998, Okowa, who pitched tent with the PDP, coordinated the Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) for ex-governor of the state, Chief James Onanefe Ibori's campaign organisation.

He has an unbroken service as the council chairman of Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state and later commissioner for agriculture and natural resources, water resources development, health, in the Ibori administration. He was appointed

by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as the Secretary to the State Government in 2007, the position he held until 2011 when he resigned and picked the party’s ticket for the Delta North senatorial race to replace Senator Patrick Osakwe who spent 12 years in the Senate.

As the outgoing chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, he is viewed in Abuja and across the three senatorial districts of the state as someone who has a clinical understanding of the state.

Prior to his appointment as SSG by Governor Uduaghan, he contested the 2007 governorship election in the state but had to step down for the incumbent governor when he was to engage him in a run-off.

He has since been canvassing for votes and telling those that care to listen about his "prosperity for all Deltans".

Okowa’s strengths/weaknesses Okowa’s chances of winning the governorship race are very high, owing to his

Okowa

participation in the politics of the state since 1999.

Besides that, Delta is a PDP-controlled state. This was evident in the 1.2 million votes President Goodluck Jonathan scored during the just-concluded presidential election to beat his closest rival, General Muhammadu Buhari in the state.

Moreover, the chairmen of the 25 council areas in the state and 95 per cent of current House of Assembly members, are PDP supporters, and they have been mobilising for his victory.

The numbers of registered support groups under his campaign organisation have greatly surpassed those the other political parties boast, even as pundits have adjudged his campaign blueprint for the development of the state as one of the best for now.

The clamour for power shift to Delta North, where he hails from favours him.

And being a member of the incumbent governor’s party, he has Uduaghan's backing.

That the Urhobo can no longer speak with one voice, following polarisation of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) may have enhanced Okowa’s chances of winning.

His soaring endorsement was, however, cut short by the defeat of President Jonathan by Buhari. Okowa had envisaged a walk-over in the state before he was boxed to a tight corner by the APC’s wind of change on March 28. The defeat of his party at the national level has now weakened his chances, forcing him to embark on another round of campaign. Okowa may possibly win the election, owing to his firm grip on Delta North axis of the state, the Ijaw, partly the Isoko and the Itsekiri, where Uduaghan hails from.

Ogboru Chief Great Ogboru, formerly of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) is the governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the state.

He hails from Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta Central Senatorial District and holds the highest record of governorship election disputation in Nigeria.

Between 2003 and today, he has contested four times and lost the governorship seat in Delta State. He is currently in the race for the April 11 election.

His political career started in 2003 when he slogged it out with former Governor James Ibori, who was then seeking reelection. He dragged him to the Election Petitions Tribunal, thereafter, having alleged that the exercise was characterised

Ogboru

The political structure of the state still lies in the hand of the PDP but the outcome of last month's presidential race has altered the voting pattern

by fraud. He refused to accept defeat until his petition was thrown out at the Court of Appeal in Benin, Edo State, two years after.

He took up the challenge against Ibori’s successor, Governor Uduaghan in 2007. Immediately the INEC chaired by Prof. Maurice Iwu, declared Uduaghan as the winner of the contest, Ogboru filed a lawsuit. The unrelenting manner in which he pursued the case to the Court of Appeal in Benin, saw to the ousting of Uduaghan on November 9, 2010 when the court declared a rerun within 90 days. He lost again when the rerun was conducted on January 10, 2011. He vied again for the governorship seat during the April 24, 2011 general elections when Uduaghan was seeking re-election. Not until last year after the Supreme Court in Abuja threw out his case, Ogboru still laid claimed he won the election.

Ogboru’s strengths/weaknesses Ogboru, a.k.a the People’s General, is popular enough to coast to victory but the emergence of Emerhor as the APC governorship standard bearer from his Delta Central Senatorial District has weakened his chances. They would now both share the massive votes from the axis.

Secondly, the fact that Ovie Omo-Agege, a former SSG during Ibori’s era joined forces with him when he picked the Delta Central Senatorial ticket of the Labour Party, does not guarantee him victory. The clamour for power shift to Delta North is a clog in his wheel of progress.

Ogboru does not have firm grip on House of Assembly members and the 25 council chairmen. The few Assembly seats his defunct DPP won have been lost after the legislators defected to the PDP, not LP. He has no council chairman to look up to.

The factionalisation of the UPU has not only deepened the setback but weakened

Emerhor

his chances.

Moreover, the new song in the politics of the state is the APC and the fact that his party has been sarcastically dubbed a branch of PDP are sore points. Except Emerhor steps down for him, he may not win the election. He threatened court action if he is rigged out at the just-conducted INECSelect Emergency Meeting held in Asaba.

Emerhor Olorogun O’tega Emerhor is from Delta Central Senatorial District. O’tega, contested the Delta Central senatorial seat under the platform of the APC to replace late Senator Pius Ewherido, who died in 2013, but lost to PDP’s Senator Emmanuel Agwuariawodo.

He has since accepted defeat and shelved the senatorial ambition for governorship.

He is now one of the big three in the race to succeed Governor Uduaghan.

O’tega, a former banker, has the financial muscle to slug it out with Okowa and Ogboru on today.

The senatorial by-election he last contested has made him popular, especially in Urhobo land. Although, his party has underscored the clamour for power shift to Delta North, the philosophy behind the political arrangement will still militate against him because his kinsman (Ibori) from Delta Central, governed the state for eight years before handing over to Uduaghan (Delta South) who is about completing his district’s slot. Power is therefore expected to shift to Okowa’s Delta North.

Emerho’s strengths/weaknesses The political structure of the state still lies in the hand of the PDP but the outcome of last month's presidential race has altered the voting pattern. It has no doubt boosted the chances of Emerhor. The singsong now is "Should Delta be an opposition state?"

Another setback to Emerhor’s victory was the rejection of his running mate, Ogbueshi Vander-Puye Osoloka Abanum, by the people of Emu Kingdom in Ndokwa West Local Government Area where he hails from, even as 95 per cent of the House of Assembly members are currently working for Okowa.

The polarisation of UPU has not only deepened the setback but weakened his chances.

The unexpected may happens. Emerhor has held Ogboru to ransom, beseeching him to step down. Ogboru has allegedly refused. Peradventure the merger plot hits the right cord, Okowa may lose the contest because the alliance will definitely weigh the PDP down.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Ajimobi

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Alao-Akala

Ladoja

Folarin

Ajimobi, Ladoja, Alao-Akala, Folarin battle for Agodi House

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ive major parties in the Pace Setter State are poised to slug it out with one another today in their bid to occupy the Government House. Aside Abiola Ajimobi of the All Progressives Congress (APC), other major candidates and their parties are: Senator Teslim Folarin of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Rasidi Ladoja of Accord Party (AP), Otunba Adebayo AlaoAkala of Labour Party (LP), and Engr. Seyi Makinde of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The candidates The 65-year-old Ajimobi was former managing director of National Oil before he forayed into politics in 1999. As an Ibadan man from Ibadan South West Local Government, Ajimobi won the senatorial seat for the Oyo South in 1999 on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) before he became the state governor in 2011 having defeated Alao-Akala of the PDP. He is the incumbent governor and he is the governorship candidate of the APC, striving to break the second term jinx that had for ages eluded the past administrations.

Senator Folarin, 50, is the governorship candidate of the PDP in today's election.

Another Ibadan man from the Ona Ara Local Government, he was elected senator in 2003 and got re-elected in 2007. He became the Senate Leader.

Folarin emerged the governorship candidate of the PDP in the December 2014 Congress conducted at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan, which was boycotted by many of the cocontenders who felt short changed in the arrangement allegedly manipulated by some powers that be in Abuja. His controversial emergence led to the fragmentation of the party with Alao-Akala and Makinde defecting to LP and SDP respectively.

Senator Ladoja of the Accord Party was former governor of the state on the platform of the PDP. He rode to the Agodi Government House through the political influence of late Lamidi Adedibu but upon winning, he cut the political umbilical cord that tied him to the control of Adedibu, an action that earned him an impeachment in 2005.

Though, he was reinstated by the Supreme Court after 11 months when his then deputy, Alao-Akala, ruled as governor, Ladoja lost the second term bid to his

An incumbent governor, two former governors, and a former Senate Leader, are locked in a battle of wits today for the Agodi Government House in Oyo State. SOLA ADEYEMO reports deputy who reigned till 2011 before he was defeated by Ajimobi.

The septuagenarian former governor floated Accord Party four months to the 2011 election. He lost the governorship seat but won eight House of Assembly seats and one House of Representatives seat. He is currently the governorship candidate of the party and is optimistic of being the first ex-governor to break the second term jinx.

Alao-Akala was former local government chairman in Ogbomoso, former deputy governor and later governor of the state on the platform of the PDP. Following his perceived maltreatment in the last December's state congress of the party, the 64-year-old Alao-Akala defected to the Labour Party where the other governorship aspirants stepped down for him to emerge as the standard bearer.

Alao-Akala's party won one House of Representatives seat in the last National Assembly election. He is slugging it out with Ajimobi, whom he said has not got the requirements to win second term in the state.

Seyi Makinde, 47, is a grass roots politician and philanthropist of note in the state. He contested the senatorial seat for the Oyo South on the platform of All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) in 2003, but could not make it. He later defected to the PDP where he also tried his luck but was not successful. Against the expectation of many people that he would retry the senatorial slot in the current dispensation, Makinde took a shot at the governorship, swelling the rank of aspirants in the PDP then to 13.

Upon his failure to clinch the ticket and in the belief that the process that produced Folarin was undemocratic, the businessman defected to the SDP. As its governorship candidate, Makinde is contesting along with others today for the Agodi Government House.

Will Ajimobi breaks second term jinx?

From all indications, APC and Ajimobi appear to have got a head start over oth-

er political parties as an incumbent that wields the enormous power of control of the state resources. More importantly is the advantage it has in the victory of Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.) in the March 28 presidential election.

Many of the electorate who felt that being in the opposition is not too advantageous for any state, have recently been buying into the campaign strategy of Ajimobi that if he could win in today's election, paucity of funds or intentional pauperisation of the state like the outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan had allegedly done to all APC-controlled states, would be erased.

Aside this is the recent defection of some politicians in the PDP and Accord to the APC where they think their bread could be buttered since the federal might has been lost. Such step has continued to dwindle the population of the opposition parties.

Just on Wednesday evening, a serving member of the House of Representatives, two former House of Representatives members under the Accord and PDP, a PDP gubernatorial aspirant, a PDP Women leader, former local government chairmen of the PDP and thousands of their supporters joined the APC claiming that their future political destinies would be better served under the party.

That the APC swept the three senatorial seats of the state as well as 12 of the 14 House of Representatives’ seats also speaks volume of the strength of the party over others. Even though the Labour and Accord parties have alleged that the APC rigged the last elections through cloning of some PVCs and use of the uncollected ones by the members, the APC winners in the various constituencies would not rest on their laurels to repeat the same feat in today's election.

How far the strategy of other opposition parties could go to checkmate Ajimobi's chance is however left for imagination.

Folarin and fragmented PDP Folarin's PDP is faced with myriad of challenges including the fragmentation

of the party's initial composition by AlaoAkala, Seyi Makinde and others who defected to other parties. Added to this blow was the loss of President Jonathan to Buhari in the last presidential election, leaving the Oyo PDP with the status of an orphan. The party won only one House of Representatives seat in the last election, thus reducing its chance of winning today's election.

Ladoja’s depleted fortunes Ladoja is loved by many civil servants in the state being a former governor that took their welfare with passion. He is believed to have the capacity of repeating the same welfaristic gesture if voted in. This serves as strength for his party.

However, the manner he allegedly hand-picked his candidates without open congress, which left many of the aspirants aggrieved, is a sore point for the party's success in today's election. That it lost all the elective positions in the last election is equally a disadvantage.

Three units in Ilora, Afijio local government area of Oyo where Ladoja's former Speaker and Director General of his campaign organisation hails from, did not get PVCs for their eligible voters. Even, the House of Representatives candidate did not have. This singular logistic irregularity also constitutes a weak point for the Accord party.

Alao-Akala’s Labour Alao-Akala's Labour Party is making waves considering the fact that the former governor is a political warhorse, who has deep pocket and is deeply connected to the grass roots by virtue of his friendliness and open-handedness. His deputy, Sarafadeen Alli, a lawyer and former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), is also popular as an Ibadan grass roots politician and President of the Omo Ajorosun Club. These are plus marks for the party.

However, the fact that the party is new in the state, and that it is a product of defections of people from APC and PDP coupled with the fact that Alao-Akala had lost many of his loyalists who refused to defect with him, may be a weak point for the party in the election. Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi, who determines who is what in the Oyo town politics, is supporting Ajimobi and no other candidate.

10 The race for Lagos House has reached its crescendo. In this piece, WALE ELEGBEDE previews today’s governorship election in the state.

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ince the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been playing second fiddle in Lagos State. At every of the four elections held so far in the state, the bane of the party in the state has largely been internal wrangling, thereby allowing the opposition a roller coaster ride at the elections.

Its worst outing in the state was in the 2011 election when it lost all the 20 local governments to the then Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). In fact, the party nearly went into tatters after the election but for the intervention of its national headquarters.

However, the party is, perhaps, for the first time facing the APC with a near full strength, which may have been slightly decimated with the defeat of President Goodluck Jonathan at the March 28 elections. But the endearing personality of its candidate, Jimi Agbaje, seems to be the last card in the party’s pocket.

For the APC, it is all about continuity and consolidation. While still savouring its victory at the federal level, the party is not leaving any stone unturned in ensuring that the state does not leave its grip. With Akinwunmi Ambode as its candidate, the party believes that it cannot put any foot wrong.

The candidates In all, 17 political parties presented governorship candidates and running mates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) but with less than eight days to the election, 10 of the candidates backed out of the race and declared support for the candidate of the APC, Ambode.

According to a statement released on April 3, the 10 candidates said they have joined hands with Ambode to give Lagos a deserving government.

The candidates, who made the U-turn days to the gubernatorial elections include; Adeshina Buruji of Accord Party (AP), Obadia Akinola of Independent Democrats (ID), Ishola Aregbesola of Action Alliance (AA) and Babatunde Sarumi of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN).

Others include Abiodun Oyegunle of the African People’s Alliance (APA), Victor Adeniji of KOWA Party, Adeshina Olayokun of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Sesan Olatunde of New Nigeria’s People Party (NNPP), Sylvester Eze of the Citizens Popular Party (CPP), and Pauline Ojochide of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA).

Though the governorship candidates and their endorsements could be seen as lightweights in the real contest, but rolling their miniature political structures behind the APC candidate may be the difference in the jostle for the Lagos House in the long run.

Meanwhile, the remaining seven candidates in the race are Ambode of APC, Agbaje of PDP, Ayodele Akele of National Conscience Party (NCP), Ademola Razaq of Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD), Olurotimi Olulana of Labour Party (LP), Bolaji Ogunseye of Alliance for Democracy (AD) and Kayode Jacobs of Mega Peoples Progressive Party (MPPP).

Of the lot, it’s a two-horse race battle between Agbaje and Ambode with the remaining five just making up the numbers.

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The raging battle for

Ambode

Agbaje's strength For Agbaje, his endearing personality and the likely toga of being known as 'Mr. Integrity' from his first shot in 2007 is still working for him. Many who witnessed how his campaign was seamlessly structured in 2007 see him as another Fashola owing to his appealing nature and deep understanding of issues in the Centre of Excellence. Also, his analytical and oratory prowess are also giving him an edge. He is a popular brand among Lagosians, especially the middle class and he is the reason many of them are queuing behind the PDP. For a larger per cent of non-indigenes in Lagos, he is their choice for the office and he could always count on their support as they perceived him as a man of the people.

Also, the furore generated by the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, when he warned the Ndigbo in Lagos to vote for Ambode or perish in the lagoon, appears to be a plus for the PDP candidate. Already, with some House of Representatives tickets in their pocket, the PDP will want to push further their luck today. With the impressive showing of the PDP in the March 28 elections in Lagos, Agbaje is expected to put up a spirited fight against Ambode in today's clash of the titans.

Agbaje’s weakness Prior to the presidential election, the calculations was that if President Jonathan wins the election, Agbaje's chances of clinching the Lagos seat may stand at 80 per cent. However, with the outcome of the election not favouring the PDP, many affirm that Agbaje was only beating the air in the race as he has no chance. Severally, the pharmacistturned politician has been described in some quarters as a good candidate in a bad party. In fact, some made allusion to his emergence as PDP candidate to be the handiwork of Chief Olabode George, thereby branding him as likely stooge of the former deputy national chairman of the PDP. Thus, he has the PDP burden on him and the defeat of Jonathan may have added extra luggage to him.

Agbaje

Also, the morale of PDP members is presently low and less than two weeks after the presidential election, many of them are still sucking the loss to APC. For them to be proactive in today’s election, measures of motivation would count. Similarly, the threat of Oba Akiolu to the Ndigbo may in another thread work against Agbaje as some of the non-indegenes may totally boycott the election. Also, it is feared in some quarters that Agbaje and PDP did not really reach out to the people like APC did, especially after the March 28 election.

Ambode’s strength He is the candidate to beat, especially after the victory of Buhari. He is seen as polished, amiable and unassuming. More than his opponents, he has a strong and tested political structure backing him and he is also not taking any chances despite the waxing supports he gets daily. Though, this is his first shot at politics, he has been able to learn fast the rudiments and carriage of politicking within a short period. Aside enjoying the massive support of Bola Tinubu, the incumbent, Governor Babatunde Fashola, has also rolled the state machinery without him. Clearly, there is no excuse for him.

Ambode’s weakness Up until Sunday, the coast was getting clear for Ambode. However, like a tornado, the bombshell from Oba Akiolu on the Ndigbo in the state became a bad press for the APC and its candidate. In fact, the various damage controls to mop up the vicious attack on the Igbo people couldn’t achieve much as the social media feasted on the crisis. On Twitter, #AkioluGate became a trending issue around the world and the PDP also blown it out of ordinary in the mainstream media. Also, some residents see Ambode as another front for the expansion of Tinubu’s empire in the state, and for these sets of people, the grip of Tinubu in 16 years should be stopped by not voting Ambode. The APC candidate is also set to battle for

votes from the unwilling non-indigenes residing in parts of Lagos like OshodiIsolo, Amuwo Odofin, Ajegunle, among others.

Who is Ambode?

Born on June 14, 1963 at Epe, Lagos, he began his primary education at St. Jude’s Primary School, Ebute Meta, Lagos. He passed the National Common Entrance in Primary 5 and gained admission into Federal Government College, Warri, where he made history recording the second best result in the entire West Africa in the Higher School Certificate (HSC) Examinations in the Social Sciences in 1981.

For his tertiary education, he attended the University of Lagos, from where he graduated with honours in Accounting at the age of 21 in 1984. He became a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) at 24 and had a Master’s in Accounting specialising in Financial Management, also at the University of Lagos, via a Federal Government scholarship.

In 1998, he was awarded the United States’ Fullbright Scholarship for the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship programme at the Boston University, in Massachusetts on Public Leadership with emphasis on Finance and Accounting, as a result of his commitment to public service.

Ambode began his career, all which he had with Lagos State government at the Lagos State Waste Disposal Board, Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), in 1985 as Accountant Grade II and joined the Local Government Service in 1988, as Assistant Council Treasurer, Badagry Local Government. Between 1991 and 1996, he worked in various capacities as Auditor, Somolu Local Government, Council Treasurer, Alimoso, Somolu, Mushin and Ajeromi-Ifelodun local government areas.

In December, 1999, he was transferred to the Lagos State Government Civil Service and was appointed acting Auditor-General for Local Governments in 2000, an appointment which was

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Fashola’s seat in 2001 confirmed by the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2001, going down in history as the youngest person to be appointed Auditor-General in Lagos State at the age of 37.

He became the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance in 2005 and was in 2006 given additional responsibility as Accountant-General for Lagos State, thus putting him in charge of all the state’s financial activities. Ambode voluntarily retired from the Lagos State Civil Service in 2012 as the first ever Permanent Secretary/AccountantGeneral to do so and upon retirement, found Brandsmiths Consulting Limited, a public finance management consulting firm providing public finance and management consulting services to government at all levels.

Who is Agbaje?

Jaykay, as he is popularly known,

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was born on March 2, 1957. He is an alumnus of the prestigious University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, he founded his own company, JAYKAY Pharmaceutical and Chemical Company Limited in 1982, which he ran till 2005, when he decided to go into politics. Agbaje, a consummate professional is a Fellow of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN) and West African Post Graduate College of Pharmacists, WAPGCPharm.

He has held various professional positions, among which were: National Secretary, Nigerian Association of General Practice Pharmacists, NAGPP, between 1987 and 1990; National Chairman, NAGPP between 1990 and 1993, chaired the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, from 1994 to 1997 and was also chairman of the 1994 National Conference Planning Committee of the PSN. He served as a member of Lagos

State Task Force on Fake and Adulterated Drugs between 1989 and 1993; National Drug Formulary and Essential Drugs List, from 1986 to 1993 and Lagos Hospitals Management Board between 1994 and 1997.

Agbaje also sits on the board of other organisations, including Oakwood Park Limited, Vigeo Holdings Limited, Atlantic Hall Secondary School, Epe and Jimi Agbaje Outreach, an initiative dedicated to helping the less privileged in the society and has also served as business mentor at Fate Foundation.

Agbaje became involved in politics in the aftermath of the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election presumed to have been won by the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O) Abiola and joined resistance groups.

His activism made him join the panYoruba sociocultural group, Afenifere, which he served as National Treasurer.

He was once a member of the defunct Action Congress (AC), a party he aspired to contest the 2007 election but left with some other aggrieved aspirants and joined the defunct Democratic Peoples Alliance (DPA), on whose

platform he contested for the 2007 election.

Exciting contest From the outcome of the March 28 elections, out of the 5.8 million registered voters in Lagos, only 3.8 million were able to collect their permanent voters’ cards (PVCs) and of this number, only about 1.5 million turned out to vote during the Presidential and National Assembly elections.

For some analysts, the number may even drop today given the various tantrums and playing of ethnic cards by both parties. Aside the two candidates, the influence of George and Tinubu may also count in the long run as both political warlords have always had scores to settle each election year.

However, beyond the governorship race, the exciting House of Assembly election, which has been termed ‘community poll’, will be a clear departure from what obtained in 2011 where the APC carted the whole 40 seats in the House. This time, it is expected that the PDP and other political parties would give the APC a good run for its effort.

Odds favour el-Rufai in Kaduna The popularity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State, General Muhammadu Buhari’s direct appeal to the electorate to vote Malam Nasir El Rufai in today’s election, including the APC gubernatorial candidate’s populist programmes in education and health as well as his antecedents in building infrastructure, will combine to give el-Rufai victory in today’s polls as IBRAHEEM MUSA noted.

C

ocky, confident and upbeat, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is already singing the victory song in Kaduna State. On March 28, the party clinched two out of the three senatorial seats, got two thirds of the House of Representatives tickets and defeated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) roundly in the presidential election.

Specifically, APC got 1, 127,760 million votes as against PDP’s 484,085 votes at the presidential poll. Consequently, pundits, APC members and the general public, by simple extrapolation, are predicting the APC’s victory in today’s gubernatorial election. Instructively, Malam Nasir elRufai, APC’s gubernatorial candidate, is also optimistic but has not been resting on his laurels. Last Monday, he was all over the airwaves in Kaduna, moving from one radio station to the other, explaining his policies and asking for votes. In addition, he raised the dark spectre of rigging and accused an unnamed PDP chieftain of spearheading the plot.

Similarly, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari, the president-elect, has been appealing to voters to vote el-Rufai and all APC state House of Assembly candidates in a radio jingle. Last Tuesday, el-Rufai was in southern Kaduna, the stronghold of the PDP, where he did some retail politics. He canvassed for support, allayed fears and generally calmed nerves in the area. For effect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, the

Yero

El-Rufai

Vice President-elect, spoke to the Christian leadership in Kafanchan, the political headquarters of southern Kaduna.

Essentially, in spite of apparent victory, el-Rufai is not sitting pretty but pulling all the stops, cementing every crack and wooing traditional PDP supporters to his camp. Significantly, these junkets paid off in southern Kaduna as 5,000 PDP members defected to the APC last Tuesday, including Major-General S.B.S. Biliyock (rtd), Hon. Ruth Jummai Ango, a former House of Representatives member and exAttorney-General, Zakari A. Sogfa.

In addition, 114 immediate past councillors from eight local government areas of the zone have also crossed over to the APC. In addition, the political elite are keying into the new realignment of forces and for this reason, they are willing to join the APC train of change.

On his part, Governor Muktar Ramalan Yero, the PDP candidate, has criss-crossed the state and met with traditional rulers, key stakeholders and religious leaders.

Last Tuesday, Yero had appeared on DITV where he clarified some issues, including his alleged plans to rig elections.

The governor, in the television inter-

view, sounded conciliatory and more level headed. However, he had earlier flexed his muscles, according to reports, in southern Kaduna where he allegedly directed traditional rulers not to meet with Osinbajo.

The directive, according to Ben Kure, the director-general of el-Rufai Campaign, had come as the royal fathers were about meeting the vice president-elect. Expectedly, the APC criticised this directive as it negated the royal fathers’ freedom of association.

However, in spite of this strong-arm tactics, Yero’s foot soldiers have campaigned vigorously, in the last one week, almost neighbour-to-neighbour, pleading for forgiveness and asking for votes. Significantly, Governor Yero has been very jittery as retaining his seat, going by previous elections, seems increasingly dicey.

In particular, his party had trailed the APC in the last National Assembly and Presidential elections as earlier mentioned.

The southern Kaduna, his PDP support base, has been slipping away steadily. In 2011, the area had over 900,000 registered voters and PDP got about 90 per cent of the votes in the gubernatorial election. But, with the Smart Card Reader, PDP got just

about 200,000 votes from the area in contrast to the earlier figures. The governor, according to reports, became frightened by this wide disparity between expectation and reality in southern Kaduna.

Similarly, if past precedents are a guide, APC will win in Zaria, Igabi, Sabon Gari, Kaduna North and Kaduna South local government areas, traditional homelands of the opposition. These five area councils, according to INEC’s figures, had 1,341,575 voters in 2011, out of the total 2,209,976 voters in the state.

Roughly, they control more than half of the total number of voters. APC’s dominance in these local governments and the southern Kaduna’s frosty relationship with Governor Yero, will tip the scale in el-Rufai’s favour.

However, in spite of these figures, elRufai did not relax his guard for less obvious reasons.

The contest, according to him, is not a straight fight between Yero and himself.

Rather, el-Rufai will be up against President Goodluck Jonathan, Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Yero, according to his analysis. Jonathan, having lost almost everywhere in the North, will like to win Kaduna, the political capital of the North, as a consolation prize.

Sambo will soon be out of work, according to el-Rufai, so he will want to continue living off the state. Likewise, having tasted power, Yero will not like to give it up without a fight. Consequently, this three-versus-one race, going by el-Rufai’s analysis, has made the APC gubernatorial candidate unrelenting in his quest.

However, the dominant effect of the last elections, where PDP lost the presidency and the majority status at the National Assembly, including the raft of defections to the APC in the state, will have a bandwagon effect on the electorate. From all indications, el-Rufai will coast to victory in today’s election owing to APC’s popularity in the state. Buhari’s direct appeal to the electorate to vote him, including the APC candidate’s populist programmes in education and health as well as his antecedents in building infrastructure, sure will count for him. Significantly, the expected victory will end the 16 years of PDP’s unbroken rule in the state.

• See more on page 37

SATURDAY

Voices SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2015

12

Do you think the outcome of the presidential election would affect today’s election?

We are wiser now I look forward to positive change regardless of the outcome. We are wiser now so we know the votes do count.

– Nomoreloss, singer

I don’t think it would affect the outcome It won't affect anything because people have already made up their minds. The outcome of the presidential election will not affect the governorship election.

– Brain Efa, tourism and hotel consultant

Sure, it will Sure, with the gale of defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress (APC), the wind of change is blowing hard.

APC will be favoured

It shouldn't

– Yusuf Olatunji, civil servant

PDP, APC will slug it out in Lagos

Yea, it will affect the outcome. The APC believe their time has come to dominate at the federal and state level. Also, PDP will strongly desire to win Lagos State so they can be relevant in the scheme of things. So, both parties will go all out to do whatever they can to make a difference.

– Anthony Esene, works with a telecom firm

Nigerians have given up on PDP

– Oludare Mayowa, journalist

It seems it will It looks like it will affect the governorship election, but the youth have a strong verdict on this.

– Ebele the Flutist

I think so because Nigerians seem to have given up on the PDP that lost. And for a while now the APC has had a good track record. But I think the statement by the Oba of Lagos might affect the chances of the APC in Lagos State.

– Falade Faderera, NYSC member

Many people have been influenced

It may affect it Yes, it might because with the way some of the political parties are taking it, they make it look like it's a do-ordie affair. With all these, if proper security measures are not put in place, we don't know what the outcome will be.

Yes it will. More people will vote the All Progressives Congress (APC) since the party won the presidential election.

– Monalisa Azeh, shoe designer

I don't think it should except if any of the parties involved is not confident of itself. And even if any of these parties don't emerge winner, there shouldn't be fighting because politics is a game of luck that requires one winner and many losers.

I will say yes because I think many people have been influenced and they have come out for change. So from my own point of view, I think it will go a long way in affecting the governorship poll.

– Tanmowo Funmilayo

Yes, in some states In some states the euphoria is still strong while some others will witness change rather than continuity. People are getting wiser but the main ingredients of Nigerian politics still subsist, the wolves are at their best jumping ships for crumbs.

It will be landslide victory in the North for APC, only the South- South and South- East will remain the fortress of PDP. – Marlyn Emuka, self-employed

It will be a

bandwagon effect

Most times it does in Africa but naturally it is not suppose to. You must have heard how members of PDP have been defecting to APC in droves, high ranking members included. So, there is no way the outcome of the presidential election will not affect today’s poll. It is called bandwagon effect.

– Tayo Olatoye, consultant

I don’t think so The presidential election was almost bloody if not for God’s mercy. But I don't think the governorship election will be affected by the recent presidential election’s result since one is federal while the other is state.

But all the same, we all have to be very careful.

– Tony Benjamin, civil servant

– Angel Ogunlana, businesswoman

It won’t

No, it wouldn't and I so much believe this governorship election will be more peaceful and organised than the presidential election.

Looking at the way each state is coordinating itself, I don't think there will be any issue or fighting.

– Laolu Ibitoye, self-employed

It won’t have any bearing on today’s election

It will play a huge role

Yes, I think the outcome of the presidential election will play a huge role in today's governorship poll because I think many people have been won over.

– Chizoba Kennedy

compiled by

ANGELA DAVIES, RICKETTS OLUSHOLA, JOHN EDU AND AYILARA DAYO

To me the presidential election will not have any bearing on today’s elections because I think what many Nigerians want now is change of power.

– Adeoye Deborah

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2015

SATURDAY

WeekendDelight 13

Instyle Wallets ain’t for ladies only p.16

TV & Radio

Giving the talk some push p.18

Love & Living ‘We found love at a police checkpoint’ p.33

Chef’s Corner Making some carrot cake p.21

C o n v e r s at i o n

Chinelo

ikeme

banking on the hair trade Chinelo Linda Ikeme is the owner of the upscale hair shop, My Hair Limited, with branches in Lekki and Yaba, both in Lagos. The banker turned hair purveyor has among her customers top female celebs due to the quality of natural human hair she sources from across the world. In this interview with LANRE ODUKOYA, she speaks about the fad in luxury hair, the essentials and how she hit the goldmine.

How did the transition from banking to hair business happen?

Sorry, let me ask. Are you on Instagram?

Yes, I am...

I asked because we had an event yesterday and I’m actually and it was something similar to what you’re asking me about. It was an event organised by me and two other ladies tagged 21st Century Women in Business.

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

It was just basically a networking and mentoring programme. We were all ladies and talked to one another, motivated one another and we had speakers like Ndidi Obioha and a medical doctor who came to talk to us on breast and cervical cancer. Essentially, we spoke about how people are scared of taking that bold steps to starting their private businesses after being so comfortable working for others for so many years earning salaries.

My transition was borne out of the desire to do something different, the desire to use the zeal and strength I had in me for achieving result to doing something for myself because when you work in a corporate organisation, you’d find out that you’re putting in a lot of hard work. I was a banker and I realised that most times people don’t enjoy what they’re doing but they had to work hard to earn that salary. Instead of doing something I didn’t enjoy, I decided to go into hair business.

In fact, the hair business wasn’t even the first thing I ventured into, I went into kiddies’ birthday parties before I eventually settled on hair. I quit the kiddies’ party business because when I was doing it,

Most times people don’t enjoy what they’re doing but they had to work hard to earn that salary. Instead of doing something I did

I thought I would be able to do it only on Saturdays because those parties are usually on Saturdays but I realised that I didn’t have that much time because it was creeping into my work time.

Were you still working in the bank then?

Yes, I was working in a bank. I worked in two different banks for six years. I noticed that most mothers would cut cost on the cake, the drinks and even the party packs but they want to look good, fabulous and the best dressed on that day. I said to myself, if women are bent on looking good why don’t I do something that will meet that end of the market? So, I started considering doing something ladylike. I wasn’t sure of what it was but I wanted to do something along that line.

So, one Sunday I went to Shoprite and there was an Indian man selling hair there. He was standing because he had a table along the walkway and was asking people, ‘come and buy’. So, I bought a few things because he didn’t have everything I wanted. But later he sent his driver to deliver to me.

And another time, he came to my office and told me: ‘why don’t you consider selling to the ladies in your office? There are so many ladies here’. I told him I wasn’t interested that I just wanted to face my job and didn’t want any distraction. He persuaded up to a point and I told him, ‘okay, I don’t have money’. He told me: ‘I’ll give them to you free, sell and pay me at the end of the month’. I honestly don’t know why he trusted me that much and that was how I started. The rest is history.

Did your mother play any role in this?

Actually, my mom motivated me a lot in the sense that she’s a widow; my dad is late and the business my dad used to run is run by her now. And she also greatly motivated me to quit the banking job and join the family business which I have also done.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

14

Weekend Delight

| Conversation

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

‘I love Las Vegas... there’s so much to feast the eyes on’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

What’s the family business?

We import chemicals from a company in Italy. The chemical is used for body works for cars, boats, ships and metal works generally. She kept on encouraging me. At first, she didn’t want me to leave banking because she knew the experience I was getting there was quite vital but eventually when I was ready to quit, she welcomed me into the business. So, right now I’m an executive director in Moore Enterprises (our family business) and I also do my hair business.

My mom turned the business around after my dad died because my dad wasn’t very educated, but mom did a wonderful job in growing the business from zero to where it is today. She has always been a fashionable woman, right from when I was growing up. She had this hair she used to wear whenever there was a special occasion. She would wear it and people would be asking, ‘is this your hair?’

At that time, I was always thinking that whenever I get to secondary school, I will use the wig, the hair has been with her for decades. I think I still have a photograph of it. So, at that time, I didn’t know I was ever going to do hair business. I just learnt the fashion side of life from my mom, being able to coordinate the dressing, jewellery and so on. I remember that she had Christian Dior and Gucci bags. I didn’t really know what they were then but I knew they were nice.

So, those things grew in my mind and they are all manifesting now in everything I do including my business. I just hope I pass it on to my daughter as well.

pensive. The first is the exchange rate and after getting that hair, you don’t sell it like that, you have to wash it, treat it, put the weft (the base of the hair where we sew unto our African hair) on it. That part of the hair (weft) is very important and if you don’t do it well, it will mess up everything. If the weft is not well done, it will ruin the hair entirely. Some people sell cheap hair because the weft may not have been properly done. We’ve heard some people complain of having some strange stuffs in the hairs, but in the hair I sell, I make sure that everything is properly done by the companies that do it and if there’s any complaint, I’d return to them and my customers won’t have any complain.

You’re a mother of three, how did you achieve this trim shape?

I’m a mother of four actually (chuckles). I’m a very active person and I exer-

cise every day. I relax by swimming, it helps me relax and calms me. I live in Lekki and we have our popular Lekki-Ikoyi bridge where I jog and I also have a treadmill at home.

How do you joggle roles as a mother, wife and an entrepreneur?

I live in Lekki and My Hair Limited outlet is there, I wake up early enough, prepare the last boy who is

Indian hair are actually very versatile because you can do a lot of things with it but my best is still Argentina

about 10 months old and hand him to the nanny. After spending some time at Lekki, I just go straight to My Hair Limited outlet in Yaba. And by 5pm, I’m already on my way back to Lekki because I have capable hands at both outlets whenever I’m not on ground to attend to customers.

With four kids, how do you pamper yourself when you feel the need to?

My husband and I travel every year, we don’t joke with it. Sometimes we go with the kids and sometimes we also go alone. I keep the kids with my mom who is very gracious enough to look after them till I return.

Where are your favourite holiday spots?

Malaga in Spain is a beautiful place to be. It’s devoid of the hustle and bustle of busy cities. You would love it as you watch people go hand in hand quietly enjoying splendid access to nature. It’s so beautiful. I also love Las Vegas, there’s so much for one to feast their eyes on.

Natural hair are sourced from all over the world, where are you preferred locations and what are the things you look out for?

The very first hair I started selling was Indian hair. India has the best hair because it grows long very fast. Many of us in the business had sold Indian hair one time or the other, after I lost contact with the Indian man who introduced me to the business, I fell into the hands of fraudulent people who sold fake hair to me. And the way it runs is that you must pay before they send them to you. After the transaction, it was all stories because nobody was willing to take the bad hair back from me. I lost a lot of money but I also maintained a policy of giving a guarantee, so when customers brought the hair back, I exchanged it for them with better quality ones. Now, I have people I call ‘hair sourcers’, they source for good hair and I pay them to avoid falling into the hands of fraudsters. I test them because I have a few clients who are ready to test hairs for me to confirm if they’re okay. If they are not okay, I’d return it to my ‘hair sourcers’. They source for hair all over the world for me.

Which particular areas around the world do they get the finest from?

We have Argentine hair and they’re sourced from very remote parts of Argentina We get South American hairs, specifically from places like Brazil and Peru. We also get from Vietnam. Most of these countries where we source hair from are places where people are living below the average and want to sell their hair to make some money. These are countries where you find hairs in large quantity. India has the highest number of willing donors and their hair grow very fast.

If you have a good company that can treat them and weave them for you, you’ll actually get very good hair from them. Indian hair are actually very versatile because you can do a lot of things with it but my best is still Argentina.

Does that make Argentine hair the costliest?

There are so many things that make it ex-

Ikeme and models displaying her products

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 april 2015

Shimmer all through with sequin gowns

S

Angela Davies equin gowns are sure to draw attention and impress at any formal event because of its shimmer and shine.

And all over shimmering sequins create a sensual silhouette.

With sequin gowns, you can have a flamboyant look, but you have to be careful when accessorising because with sequins, less is more.

Designers have come up with different styles of floor-length sequin gowns in varied fabrics, colours and necklines which are not limited to sleeveless, halter neck, embellished neckline, deep V-neckline, low back, short, long and quarter sleeves. While some of these gowns have all over sequins, others have sequined embellished bodice.

The sequins could be large or small; your choice depends on the fashion statement you want to make.

Floor-length sequined gown styles are appropriate for formal evening events like cocktail and award nights. And since they are sassy, they can definitely make any woman look confident and full of attitude.

Hence, any lady can stylishly wear them as long as you can pull it off.

Tips l The first thing you need to know about accessorising floor-length sequin gowns is this: you must avoid intricate accessories. So, it's important to adopt the minimalist approach when accessorising. l When it comes to choosing shoes, you should avoid wearing sparkling shoes.

Instead opt for high heel shoes in colours that complement your outfit even though they will not be visible. l Wear lovely drop earrings. l Your makeup should be gorgeous and dramatic. l When it comes to bags, a minimalist clutch is the best option. l You can also wear simple but unique cocktail rings and bracelets.

So be a showstopper at your next evening event in a stunning sequin gown. But, remember, you only want the dress to stand out, so accessories minimally and speak glamour and sophistication.

Instyle

15

16

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 april 2015

Accessories to live for

Wallets ain't for ladies only Although wallets weren't such a necessity in the past, they have nonetheless become an almost indispensable accessory for men today.

ANGELA DAVIES writes.

A

woman carries her world in her bag while a man carries only bare essentials in his wallet. Hence, Wallet has become one of the necessary accessories for men.

A wallet can indirectly be said to be a man’s best friend because between them, they know how much he is worth and can actually spend, what his true identity is and holds pictures of loved ones to will give his wallet a personal touch.

So that is why a gentleman’s wallet essentials should include cash, picture of loved ones, identity cards like driver’s license, credit cards and business cards stacked together in one section of the wallet. But, just ensure it’s not bulky.

Most wallets usually come in leather, as it is the most durable and strong fabric for this accessory. They also come in different styles. However, the billfolds which are the most common type of wallets are thinner and can carry fewer

items. But they are portable pocket wallets. On the other hand, the tri-folds are usually bigger with more space and compartments but become bulky when over loaded with unnecessary items.

Most wallets come in brown or black colours. But there are many wallets that come in more diverse colours you can also choose from.

Wallets are a great way to add a touch of style to your personality as well as show your level of organisation. That is why everything in your wallet should be well arranged.

The wallet you carry speaks volume about you.

So, it is appropriate to make a direct or indirect statement with your wallet. In the world of wallets, less is more.

So, stuffing your wallet with various things and tucking it in your pocket would make your pants bulge, which is a big turn-off.

Remember, the wallet should fit snugly into your pants' pocket and also make you feel comfortable.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 april 2015

MY STYLE

Striving to be different Elegance and simplicity may be one of fashion's best oxymoron, but artiste Beauty Aghedo (B’Dash) manages to reflect these diverse philosophies in her style.

ANGELA DAVIES writes.

How would you define your style?

My style is unique and accepting.

What determines the kind of outfit you wear?

It is determined by the weather and the occasion I am attending.

Which outfits takes up the most space in your wardrobe?

They are sheath skirts and dresses, these outfits give me an elegant and smart look.

Is there a particular fashion rule you live by?

To be different; so I always buy unique clothing’s no matter the cost.

Most expensive fashion item you have ever bought That would be Torcs Jewelry.

Outfit you’re unlikely to be caught wearing?

It is gored skirt because it will make me look like a member of the girls scout.

Fashion item you cannot do without My footless tight, jeans, shorts and bikini.

What kind of jewelry appeals to you?

Diamond and pearls; they blend well with any kind of outfit.

Beauty M

Signature perfume Lancôme La Vie est Belle is the fragrance that makes life more beautiful. I like Fairy drops as well.

How do you love your makeup?

It depends on the event I am attending. But most times, I love smoky eye with red, pink or orange lipstick or gloss.

How do you love your hair?

I love my hair in rock n roll with a side swept quaffed downdo with lots of oomph.

Best designer I love Louis Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana as well as Rock and Republic.

What kinds of shoes hold a special appeal to you?

I will say classic pumps because it lengthens my legs. I also love sneakers.

If you were a fashion item what would you love to be?

I would be a wedding ring because I admire true and honest commitments in marital relationships.

Best colour I really don't have a specific one. But some colours that appeal to me include pink, blue, white, black and orange.

Instyle

17

Facts Uju Offiah, creative director of Meena started the brand in 2010 as a trendy, ready to wear fashion line.

She started her career as a protégé of established Nigerian designer, Ituen Basi.

Her collections are timeless and she infuses different historical times into her pieces in very bold yet conservative forms.

Ralph Lauren’s polo line is one of the most recognisable brands in the world.

Silver was used as a jewelry material for over six thousand years.

The first lady’s boot was designed for Queen Victoria in 1840.

Avoid makeup mistakes that make you look older

akeup is meant to enhance your natural beauty. However, if it is making you look older, then there are some blunders you need to avoid to achieve that youthful glow you deserve. Here are some makeup mistakes to avoid.

Using liner and mascara on your lower lashes Playing up your lower lashes can make your eyes look fatigued and draw attention to dark circles. Instead, curl your upper lashes and use mascara into their roots and slowly through the ends for the most uplifting effect.

Wearing black eyeliner You do not need to skip using eyeliner.

However, you should opt for brown over black colour. It defines the eyes with softness. Using black eyeliner will leave the upper lids looking heavier than they are.

So, for a younger look, trace a brown pencil liner along the upper lash line focusing on the outer corners.

Using too much foundation When buying foundation, you should choose look for sheer liquid formulas with light-diffusing pigments. If you have dry skin, foundation can look patchy and emphasize discolouration, so exfoliate two to three times a week and always apply a moisturizer after cleansing. And always use foundation where you need it to even out discolouration.

Applying lipstick straight from the tube You should know that the borders of the lips soften with age, therefore bringing out extra lipstick easily. To avoid bleeding colour, use your finger or a lip brush so that you don't leave too much pigment.

Concentrate the lipstick in the center of your mouth, and blend it out with your

Skipping blush Using blush on your cheek correctly will bring instant life to your face. So, find the fleshiest part of your cheek and apply colour just slightly above it. Blend the colour out toward your temples in circles, not a line, using a big fluffy brush. Never skip using your blush.

Avoid applying lipstick straight from the tube

Ebube Nwagbo looking older with too much makeup

finger. Top it with a moisturizing lip gloss.

your lipstick.

Using too much lip liner A lip liner can define your lips and prevent colour from feathering into any lines around the mouth but choose one very carefully. If you line your lips too heavily, or with a colour that is too dark, they will look tight and squeezed. For the most natural effect, your lip liner should match the colour of your lips, not the colour of

Wearing deep, dark lip colours To make your mouth look fuller for a youthful face, choose bright colour lipsticks and glosses like peach, pink and vibrant red over deep shades like burgundy, wine and brown. And before applying colour, trace a highlighter pencil along your upper lip line, then buff it out with your finger.

Ini Edo looking youthful in her makeup

TV & Radio with Angela Davies

SATURDAY, 11 APRIL, 2015

18

This weekend STV

Presenters Tabia Princewill and Helene Ibru (both centre) with guests

Giving the talk some push

W

alk The Talk (WTT) is a ‘Chat fest’ that provides female perspectives on the day’s topic, currents events, food, fashion, politics and health. The hosts also interview a wide range of celebrities and decision makers and occasionally introduce music performances.

The show aims to reach a national audience and use its optimistic, personally affirming message to inspire the lifestyle of everyday Nigerians.

In the last episode, hosts, journalist, Tabia Princewill and lawyer turned educationist, Helene Ibru, had on the show two female guests and the topic of discussion was, ‘Knowing your rights’. The first guest, human rights activist, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, painstakingly talked about the importance of Nigerians knowing their rights instead of agonising because of their failure to enforce the rights.

Okei-Odumakin stressed that if people do not know their rights, then, they couldn’t enforce the rights. “Peoples’ rights are continuously been eroded, they don’t do anything but just keep quiet because they do not know their rights.”

She further added that even those who are educated and are conscious of what is happening, look the other way expecting a messiah to come and give them the leeway to what they expect instead of doing the right thing. “Our lives begin to end the day we keep silent. People need to change and that change is a gradual process. However, it should start from the scratch, the grassroots. Nigerians have to be conscious of the fact that they don’t have any other place except Nigeria and things must be done right. The change that we all desire is the responsibility of all of us. For those who do know their rights, we try and educate them and make them understand through several enlightenment programmes such as education, transcribing into the local dialect, taking drama to marketplaces as well as motor parks. This is because our people do not like to read, some of them cannot even view television.

At the end they change their mind set but it has to be a continuous process.”

In conclusion, she called on Nigeri-

ans to unite and shun selfish tendencies and hypocrisy.

Kathleen Ndongmo, human rights activist and founder GenVoices, spoke about ‘‘knowing your rights in the corporate world especially in customer service.’’ Articulating from the perspective of a former employee, she said the major thing with working in many organisations in Africa is principle. She highlighted that a lot of employees do not know what their organisational duties are and what their own rights are because they do not take the time to read and understand their organisational codes or handbook. She advised employees to do so in order to exercise their rights appropriately.

She also added that there was a lot of consciousness in terms of consumer protection, as a lot of people had begun to seek information from the Consumer Protection Agency website and other sites since there is more accessible information online. She concluded by saying, “When you have no access to

information, then, it is difficult to get educated.”

To make viewers understand the topic being discussed, identify and be conscious of their fundamental human rights, one of the presenters read chapter IV of the Nigerian Constitution which enumerates the fundamental rights which include but not limited to right to life, right to dignity of human persons, right to personal liberty, right to fair hearing, right to private and family life, right to freedom of expression, right to freedom of movement. This preceded the discussion.

Walk The Talk which runs for 30-minutes on Channels Television on Sundays airs at 7:30. It is original, informative and educating. In her closing remarks, Princewill encouraged viewers to read up on their rights.

So, for fresh and innovative ideas on how to tackle issues while discussing issues in an entertaining and exciting new way, keep a date with Walk The Talk.

FACE BEHIND THE VOICE

Kaylah

C

ool FM’s on-air personality, Kaylah Oniwo, has always loved to talk. But her love for radio began in the early 90's when she started listening to the radio, recording shows and songs and then playing back the songs so that she would get the lyrics right.

The graduate of Banking and Finance from Bowen University decided that she would settle for the radio and it had to be Cool FM. She loves to shop, travel and meet people. She draws inspiration from absolutely everything and anyone she

comes in contact with. She describes herself as an example of a go-getter, a dream chaser and someone who never gives up.

The White House (LTV)

Tee Tee’s Tea Break

It is a drama series which highlights the different daily plights faced by tenants in the hands of their landlord known as Old Soja.

The three-hour show is filled with special requests from the letter of the day, interviews, information and great selection of music.

Saturday @ 4:30 pm

Saturday 7:00 Kid Zone 8:00 Castro Comedien 9:00 Brights 10:00 Catholic Mass 11:00 Crack in the wall 11:30 UAC Soccer Lafflines 12:00 Boom Town Specials 12:30 Patito’s Gang 1:30 Local Movie 2:30 Play On Repeat Now 3:00 Dawn in the creeks 3:30 Boom Town 4:00 Local Movie 5:30 Two Sides of a Coin 6:00 MTV Base 7:00 News 7:30 Secrets and Scandals 8:00 My Wedding Story 8:30 Fanz Championship 9:00 Boom Town 9:30 Nigerian Idol 10:00 News 11:00 MTV Base Sunday 7:00 Insight For Living 7:30 Looney Tunes

8:30 Brights 9:30 Gospel Rhythms 10:00 St. Dominics 11:00 Gospel Symphony 11:30 Body Works 12:00 Walking with God 1:00 The advantage 1:30 Love, Dating & Marriage 3:00 Quantum leap 3:30 Singles and Married 4:30 Elevation Church 5:00 Gospel Rhythms 8:30 Nigerian Idol 10:00 News

Inspiration FM 92.3 Mon – Fri @ 10 AM

TVC

Saturday 7:00 Hossana Hour 8:00 Boombox 10:00 On The Town 11:00 Between The Lions 11:30 Sports Week 12:00 News 12:30 Video Fashion 1:00 The Big Issue 2:30 Fireworks 3:30 Golden Chance Lotto 4:40 Boom Box 5:00 Hypochondraic 5:30 Stand by Me, My Beloved 6:00 Boom Box 6:30 Project Your Poise Show 7:00 The Teju Babyface Show

8:00 Nigerian Idol 8:30 Fanz Championship 9:00 Silent Noise 9:30 Events Diary 10:00 News 11:00 Play On Repeat Now Sunday 7:00 Hosanna Hour 8:00 Nollywood English 10:00 News 11:30 Sports Week 12:00 News 12:30 Nollywood English 2:30 The Sunday Interview 3:30 Golden Chance Lotto 4:30 Excellent Leadership 5:00 Hitlist N Cruzin 5:30 Vivid View 6:00 Stand Point 7:00 Nigerian Idol 9:00 Pastor Chris Teaching 9:30 Ogun 10:00 News

City FM 105.1 Saturday 6:00 Saturday Breakfast Show 8:00 Weekend Update 8:30 Growing Up Matters 9:00 City Talks 10:30 Don-Diggy’s Corner 12:15 The City Kids Show 2:00 Fan Zone 3:30 Soccer Wrap 7:00 Encounter With Grace 8:00 Round Table 11:00 Elisha Baza Show

EKO FM 89.75

Programme summary

TELEVISION

Saturday 08:30 Weekenders sport 09:00 Music 10:00 The news 11:00 Eve 12:10 Our circuit 2:00 News update 4:10 Woman tori 8:00 P.P.A. 8:05 La Musioue Du Monde 9:00 World news 9:10 Interlude 10:00 Radio party 11:00 Music 12:00 Webcast

Sunday 5:00 Praise In The City 5:30 Christ Embassy 6:00 Sunday Praise Show 3:00 Music Culture 6:00 Singspiration 8:00 Only the hits 9:00 Once Upon A Time 10:00 Refresh

Sunday 8:10 Tunes this Sunday 10:00 News 12:05 Havin u in mind 1:00 News maker 2:00 News update 2:15 Passing glance 2:30 Royal palace 3:05 Rhumba jamz 4:00 Music 5:10 Make it happen 7:00 African news 8:30 Sunday night at the organ 9:10 Something for singles 11:00 Who’s on Your Mind

SATURDAY

ShowBiz

Hilarious moments at AY Live 2015

p.20

SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2015

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Funnybone No marriage for me in the nearest future Stanley Chibuna's (Funnybone) rise to fame as a comedian is credit to his grit and creativity. He speaks with LANRE ODUKOYA about his rough road to stardom.

You grew up in the north and you’re Igbo, was your dad a civil servant?

No, my dad was a driver with a company and we grew up in Kaduna.

That is why I speak, Igbo and Hausa fluently.

How many are you in the family?

We’re six and I’m the fourth child.

You always praise Julius Agwu for being part of your success story.

How did he impact your career?

First of all, I must commend him for being nice and humble enough to listen to me. When I was growing up, all I wanted was to be an actor. But along the line, I started hearing and watching the comic works of Julius Agwu, particularly the music-comedy song, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday which he sang in Awilo’s voice. I rehearsed the dance steps and I was doing just that. Julius Agwu was famous in Lagos and I had always looked forward to meeting him one day. Lo and behold, the dream came true when he brought his comedy show to Kaduna. The event was to hold at 10pm but I was already there at 8 am. I just wanted to see him before he goes on stage. I was running after all the vehicles entering the premises to know if any was conveying Julius Agwu. At last, at about 12pm, he was driven into the venue. As I made to reach him, the orderly hit me and I fell down. From inside his vehicle, he alighted and asked the orderly to apologise to me.

He took me into his car and asked me what I wanted. We spoke and he encouraged me. He handed me N30,000 worth of CDs to sell at the venue. I sold everything and he even gave me N5,000 which was a huge money then.

Maybe if he didn’t encourage me that day, maybe the Funnybone dream would have died. He asked me if I’d gone to school, I said, 'no'. He gave me his number and implored me to go to school first. Back then, I used to buy Night of a Thousand Laughs CD and I discovered that his jokes are really different and his was the type I could identify with most. By the time I finished at the University of Jos, I came to Lagos and also had new hurdles to cross. Opa Williams first of all gave me a platform when nobody thought I was mature enough to do professional comedy. Basket Mouth also helped me with a lot of scoops, Seyi Law was generous to me - I squatted with him for almost two years before I got my

apartment. AY gave me the support when Lagos was ready to hear me out. Yaw gave me the platform as an actor on TV with his drama, Yaw’s and Mine. Ali Baba gave me the best advice a comedian can ever give a colleague. He told me that as an Igbo who grew up in the north, I should let my jokes tell where I’m coming from. In all, I learnt from everyone of them and I am grateful.

How did you come about the trade name, Funnybone?

I got it from my bow legs. When I was a bit slimmer, not now that I have added so much weight, what you saw then were my legs. A friend actually gave me that name. There was this occasion he saw me coming and he was like, see your funny bowlegs.

That was how I got the name Funnybone. Initially I was using Okonbo as my stage name. Okonbo means bowleg in Ikwere, and that is where my boss, Julius Agwu is from. But when I needed to create my brand, I adopted the stage name, Funny Bone.

You studied theatre arts; what influenced that choice?

Money wasn’t in the picture when I was considering my career choice. I wanted to be an actor, so I had thought that I would study law, after graduation, I would just veer into acting. I had an F9 in mathematics because I never liked it and as an arts student, I could only study other arts or humanities course. To God be the glory today, there are broke doctors, lawyers and so on and I’m here enjoying what I’m doing and making money as well.

Now that you’ve struck fame and fortune, how do you hope to find true love?

Well, I’m sure you know when women have started appreciating you and your art, you’re on your way to greatness. But as much as I appreciate these wonderful ladies, I discern how to draw the line without necessarily hurting anyone. But I’m in a healthy relationship now.

Are you giving marriage a shot soon?

Marriage is not in my plans for now, at least, not in the nearest future.

Money wasn’t in the picture when I was considering my career choice

What was your first kiss like?

I can’t really remember that, but I think my first kiss came from an actress. I think I had something to do with her in a movie, I wouldn’t want to mention her name because she’s a big shot now. But it was fun all the way. I thought I could do it again with her but I am now a born again Christian.

How do you get your jokes?

It comes effortlessly. It is a mental thing. I observe a lot, I’m a wild thinker, see things different from the way other people see or understand them. Sometimes I take a whole week to build a joke, other times it comes spontaneously, and when it does, I make good use of it. I don’t write my jokes.

How much was your first payment as a comedian and what did you do with it?

It was N500 and I was still at the university then. I spent it immediately I got it.

Have you ever been embarrassed on stage?

Yes, I have. It was when I cracked a joke about former president, Obasanjo.

The organiser didn’t find it funny at all, so she pulled me off the stage immediately. I guess it was because Baba wasn’t comfortable with the jokes. But in all, I think comedy has gotten to a level it is not just to make people laugh; it is now used as social commentary.

We are social commentators, we say things the way we see them.

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Showbiz

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigeria

11 april 2015

LANRE ODUKOYA

SHOWBIZ TODAY

08059296445 lanre.odukoya@newtelegraphonline.com

Hilarious moments at AY Live 2015

O

ne of the most anticipated shows of the year, the AY Live show, held last Sunday night and it surpassed expectations of many. Many thought that given that Ayo Makun had lost so much to pirates with regard to his high budget movie, 30 Days in Atlanta, he’d be unable to pay for quality acts to perform at the annual gig. But, surprisingly, the humour merchant delivered beyond expectations.

This year’s edition was themed Happiness Reloaded and hosted

by Cool FM’s Freeze.

Typical of many Nigerian events, the show scheduled to commence at 6pm kicked off two hours and 20 minutes behind schedule. Here are some of the exciting takes from the show.

KSA’s absence When many tagged this edition of the show Old and New Testament, it was largely due to the fact that King Sunny Ade (KSA) and Onyeka Onwenu were expected to thrill fans alongside a clutch of younger acts. Alas, the acclaimed King of World Beats didn’t show up. That sparked off speculations that the super star boycotted the show at the 11th hour over disagreement on appearance fee.

Standing Ovation for President

Ajebo and the Timaya joke Ajebo, another wave-making comedian made Timaya his subject of humour and it got many laughing. ‘‘Timaya needs to clearly define to us what he wants to be; whether na gospel artiste abi na ukwu artiste. ‘Imagine, my mum, who is a minister heard his song ‘Never Bow Down’ and entered the spirit. I tried to warn her but she insisted Timaya is a man of God indeed, until she heard the last track on the album: Ukwu!’”

AY posing as Prof Attairu Jega, INEC Chairman at the just concluded AY Live show

Goodluck Jonathan One of the high points of the night was when Ayo Makun a.k.a AY gave a shout out to Nigeria’s outgoing president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. He urged everyone to give a round of applause to Jonathan, acknowledging that he is the reason the event could hold in peace.

“Goodluck is a true epitome of what a statesman should

E-BRIEFS

Sunny Melody

J

The Beat goes on for Onyeka Onwenu It was amazing the manner Onyeka Onwenu still got the audience dancing to songs unarguably evergreen. Little wonder some highly impressed fans stormed the stage to appreciate Onwenu with crispy naira notes.

uju music exponent, Sunday Adeola Ogunyemi known by the showbiz moniker, Quintessential Sunny Melody, has established a foundation for budding music talents in Nigeria, especially the ones from his home state, Ogun.

Speaking about the new initiative, which he calls The Sunny Melody Foundation, he said: “Music is not just about singing alone, some define music as vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) combined in such a way as to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion, others define music as "The art of arranging sounds in time so as to produce a continuous, unified, and evocative composition, as through melody, harmony, rhythm, and timbre or Vocal or instrumental sounds possessing a degree of melody, harmony, or rhythm." Therefore, as part of our desire to lend our voice and contribute to youth

be, and a real reflection of the change this country needs. He put the peace and wellbeing of this country before his ambition, and I can liken him to Jesus Christ today who sacrificed himself for us all and resurrected today,” his words read in part.

Gordons' jibes at Mode 9 While churning out humour,

Sunny Melody set to empower budding singers empowerment,, Sunny Melody Organisation is engaged in a project that helps to harness talents in the music industry and bring same to the fore, this is done though training of these talents in music such as voice training, major musical instruments training (keyboard, guitar, sax, drums), sound engineering, stage management etc. This programme is conceived mainly to help youths especially of Ogun State extraction in other to live the saying 'charity begins at home'.

"The objective of this charity project is to develop talented Indigenes of Ogun State origin towards actualising their dreams in the area of music, by developing their music skills, to further learn to play a wide range of instruments (or further develop their skills) learn or improve on the elements of music, general musicianship, improvisation, composition (including song writing), music theory, aural, harmony skills, performance, music analysis and music technology.. We are passionate about helping highly motivated potential musicians actualise their dreams” Ogunyemi’s Sunny Melody Entertainment Limited is a music band based in the United Kingdom. The band performs across the world, from Lagos to the, United States, Holland, Belgium, Germany, France and Republic of Ireland. Sunny Melody has performed in major concerts all over the world, and he is one of the best in terms of stagecraft, he combines Makossa with the contemporary juju and highlife music.

Gordons threw an epic jibe at rapper, Mode 9, implying his rap career is dead.

“For you to be a successful rapper in this world, you have to die. 2pac was a good rapper; he died and became great. Biggie rap so tey, he rap till he die.

Mode 9 is still alive but his career is dead; at least something don die’, the joke expectedly aroused deep laughter.

Re-enacting the Jega-Orubebe drama Remember how former minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe, attempted to disrupt proceedings during the announcement of the presidential election results last week? Comedian AY and his crew recreated the act almost flawlessly to the admiration of all and sundry. It was the most applauded outing that night.

OC Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, others star in Airtel’s before 30

A

irtel Nigeria is sponsoring a new TV series dubbed Before 30. The show premiered on March 20 at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, the same location where most parts of the series was shot. The drama is centred on the lives of four young and urbane career women in Lagos as they face pressures from society and culture, their peers and family members on the condition to be married before they turn 30.

With the aim of being the most loved brand in the daily lives of Nigerians, Airtel is a proud supporter of culture and the arts through television, thus its sponsorship of Before 30. The show which touches on social, financial, physical and religious matters is profoundly entertaining and applicable to ladies of today.

The series stars Damilola Adegbite as

the lead actress and narrator with Beverly Naya playing the role of a sexy career woman who believes men are simply playthings; while Meg Otanwa is the conflicted northern housewife who is married to a billionaire and Anee Icha, the sweet and cheerful friend and the youngest in the group.

Their stories are told through these relatable characters depicting them in recognizable situations and familiar story lines.

The drama series started airing on the March 29 across Africa on Africa Magic.

It is also aired on Ebony Life, Silverbird, Sound City and a few other channels.

This series directed by Morin Akinola also features OC Ukeje, Gideon Okeke, Kabiri Fubara and a host of others. First Bank Nigeria and Guaranty Trust Bank are co-sponsors of the drama series.

L-R: Meg Otanwa, Damilola Adegbite Attoh, Anee Icha and Beverly Naya

SATURDAY

Travel &Tourism Destination

Mozambique: Basking in nature’s bowels p.22

CHEF'S CORNER

Carrot cake Managing director of Esperanza Cakes in Surulere, Lagos, Chika Ani, shares a recipe for carrot cake.

T

SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2015

oday is a special day as the country holds governorship and state assemblies polls across the 36 states (29 states for governorship election) of the federation. One of the significance of the event is the fact that is it holding a week after the Easter celebration and given that many are still in the Easter mood, it would not be a bad idea to bake some carrot and cupcakes for your family.

Easter time is a time of cel-

Carrot cake: Ingredients

500g peeled carrots 300g flour 11/2 teaspoon cinnamon 3/4 teaspoon ginger 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 175ml of vegetable oil 200g brown sugar 4 eggs 100ml milk 200g mixed fruit

Procedure: Measure the brown sugar and place in a large bowl, add eggs and cream until creamy. Pour in the oil and milk, gently fold in the flour and all other ingredients except the carrot and mixed fruit. When all dry ingredients has been incorporated into the liquid ones, add your carrot and mixed fruits.

Fold in very well, then pour into your

21

ebration for Christians. Bunnies are used for the decor just like Santa is to Christmas. Now, in the world of cake and pastry, we incorporate carrots which signifies bunnies to our treat. We have carrot cake, spring rolls with lots of carrot, carrot and cupcakes.

Today, for our Esperanza Easter specialties, we are going to be teaching you how to make a lovely carrot cake and a carrot cupcake. already prepared baking pan and bake.

To know if it's properly baked, insert a toothpick in the middle of the cake, if it comes out clean, it means your cake is ready to be eaten.

Cupcake

Ingredients 250g butter 250g flour 150g sugar 4 large eggs 250g grated carrot 1teaspoon baking soda 150g soaked mixed fruit

Procedure Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Crack in your eggs one after the other and continue creaming. Fold in your flour and baking soda then add the carrot and mixed fruit lastly. Pour into the cupcake tins and bake in moderate temperature until it is baked.

Send feedback on your experience at experimenting with it and your special recipe to iroandy@yahoo.com

Carrot Cake. Inset: Ani

TRAVEL BEATS

ICTP calls for action on climate change

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

AS the global climate change continues to attract discourse, the president of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners, Professor Geoffrey Lipman, has called on the world to act now to check global warming. He made this call at the recently held International New York Times Qatar Conference.

“We must act now on climate resilience. Climate Change is an existential threat, but we can abate its harshest impacts if we prepare well with a new norm of green growth.”

Lipman called for broad-scale collaboration to measure, control, and reduce carbon impacts across the travel and tourism value chain.

In a session with the Chair of the Qatar Tourism Authority, HE Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, Lipman detailed the SUN Project, recently adopted as a global pilot by the Vanilla Islands, with the first delivery scheduled for Mauritius in June 2015. He described it as a “glocal” initiative aimed at bringing worldwide Green Growth strategies, national regulation, and local innovation into a new dedicated interconnected and interactive framework. Core components will be.

The ICTP president further stated that the art and cultural community was interlinked to travel and tourism, and it had a major stake in low carbon

adaptation/climate resilience. He invited the conference participants and their broader constituency to engage fully with the SUN Project team.

ICTP is a grassroots travel and tourism coalition of global destinations committed to quality service and green growth. ICTP engages communities and their stakeholders to share quality and green opportunities including tools and resources, access to funding, education, and marketing support.

ICTP advocates sustainable aviation growth, streamlined travel formalities, fair coherent taxation, and investments for jobs. ICTP supports the UN Millennium Development Goals, the UN World Tourism Organization's Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, and a range of programs that underpin them.

Lipman

Africa entrepreneurs to hold world congress in 2017 Global Entrepreneurship Network is to stage the first ever Africa’s entrepreneurship world congress Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) in 2017. Johannesburg is to host the congress as announced during the opening ceremony of GEC 2015 in Milan, Italy.

South Africa’s Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu, said, “I am confident that this award will help sustain the momentum of an entrepreneurial revolution that was given impetus by President Jacob Zuma when he announced the establishment of the new Ministry of Small Business Development. GEC 2017 will ensure that small business development remains firmly on the national agenda and the radar screen of all stakeholders.”

The Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) is an inter-disciplinary gathering of start-up champions from more than 150 countries and attracts over 4000 delegates.

These delegates represent distinct components of their entrepreneurial ecosystems and are focused on how best to help entrepreneurs start and scale new companies.

The Congress has previously been held in the United States, UAE, China, UK, Brazil, Russia and Italy. South Africa is now proud to be the first African country to host the event.

“The Global Entrepreneurship Network continues to expand its involvement in Africa in support of helping the next generation of entrepreneurs there to rebrand the continent and permanently shift perceptions,” said Jonathan Ortmans, president of the Global Entrepreneurship Network.

“Johannesburg will provide an important backdrop for startup champions everywhere to come together in building one global entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

At the GEC in Milan, Minister Lindiwe Zulu praised the efforts of all bid partners, which were instrumental as a team to ensure that the bid came to South Africa.

“This is a great opportunity for South Africa and Africa as a continent to showcase its entrepreneurial prowess to the world. The GEC is a platform that would open doors for our youth, ignite entrepreneurship and put our youth in the global arena” emphasised the Minister.

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Travel & Tourism

11 april 2015

Mozambique: Basking

DESTINATION

Mozambique writes ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA, simply charms and serenades visitors with its vast and rich natural offerings ranging from enchanting and abundant marine life, alluring beaches to bewildering wildlife.

Add to the bargain its people of diverse culture and tradition, arts and crafts and cuisine.

T

Background he Republic of Mozambique otherwise known as Republica de Mocambique in Portuguese is located in Southeast Africa. The country is bordered by Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west and to its southwest is South Africa and Swaziland while to the east is the Indian Ocean, which has given the country its most prized attraction and sets it apart as a destination of choice for many.

Maputo, which used to be known as Lourenco Marques is the capital of the country, which thrives on its culture and people. It is the largest city in the country and is endowed with different attractions, natural beauty and the good life, which easily attract visitors to the city, especially first time visitors who find the city quite relaxing and colourful.

Mozambique has a rich and chequered history from the pre–colonial to the colonial and republican. It is made of mainly the Bantu people with other minorities to the mix while Portuguese is the official language of the country. The country has a thriving economy with agriculture as one of the leading sectors. Others include manufacturing, petro-chemical and, of course, tourism.

Tourism The Mozambican economy is on the ascendency as the government since the cessation of civil war has focused intensively on building its economy and attracting the attention of the world. One of the sectors currently attracting attention and putting the country on the global map is its tourism sector. Judging by development, it has significantly risen to the consciousness of the travelling public as the country now has a thriving tourism which is on its way to becoming a global destination of sort.

Part of the tourism attraction of the country has to do with the richness of the Indian Ocean, which runs its course across the country. It has bequeathed the country with a number of beaches, which

A market in the capital

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

in their own rights are quite beautiful and attractive, presenting choice options for exploring the sand and sea in a naturally serenading enclaves.

The country’s tourism minister, Carvalho Muaria in making a pitch, said: "Experience our delicious local foods, visit a nearby village and experience firsthand their legendary hospitality, trek the wilderness, filled with our share of wildlife, climb mountains, dance to the local music, select a locally made souvenir to name a few of the experiences that will make your travels to our country unforgettable and lasting. I extend a warm welcome to Mozambique, I am confident that you will share the beautiful memories of your stay with your friends and family, and come back for more."

The country has 11 provinces, which are grouped into three regions – Southern Mozambique (Maputo, Cidade de Maputo, Gaza and Inhambane), Central Mozambique (Manic, Sofala, Tete and Zambezia) and Northern Mozambique (Nampula, Niassa and Cabo Delgado).

Each of the region has it particular tourism offerings, which a visitor should look forward to exploring.

As highlighted by the tourism minister, the endless list of attractions include the following: Maputo: The country’s capital city, which is located on southeastern part of the country, holds a lot of attractions for the visitors and it is actually the starting point of exploring this country, which was once a Portuguese colony and famed for its slave trade among others. The city has a vibrant outlook and presents an interesting mix of cosmopolitan and local features.

Its beauty is made alluring by its people, its bustling nature and the natural feel, which is accentuated by the acacias and lilac jacaranda trees that line its wild avenues.

The best way they say to absorb all of the city’s offerings and feel its intense pulse is take a walk round it for a day or two. But if that is not possible then just a city day tour would do as your guide would enthral you with all the tales and beautiful sights and sounds of the city, which include: Historical statues with the Praca de Independencia, a statue of the country’s first president, Samora Machel serving as an attraction. Other spots include Jardim Tunduru Botanical Garden, which apart from its natural retreat pull, it offers insight to the country’s once grandiose history; The Cathedral of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Saint Anthony’s Church, Train Station, a dome–like structure that is very alluring; Fort and The Yellow House (National Money Museum).

Others are the Central Market and the Fish Market.

Maputo is well developed and struc-

Benguerra Island

Plaza Independencia. Inset: Immaculate Conception Cathedral

tured and unlike most parts of the country, it offers wide options in dining/wining, shopping, entertainment/leisure and hospitality as well as night life.

able to take you on while you can also enjoy the catch of the day during the game fishing, which is regarded as one of the most suffusing angler experiences there is.

Marine life This is perhaps the most appealing and enchanting attraction of the country, which yearly draws hundreds of visitors to it shores with its array of beaches and waters harbouring a number of marine life. These offers an opportunity for water related leisure activities courtesy of the Indian Ocean, which bequeath to the country vast coastline inhabited by awesome marine life. These are whales, sharks, dolphins, whale sharks and mantra rays. There is also the dugong with rich array of fish life and sea turtles to excite the visitors and lovers of the sea.

Some of the activities to engage in include boat cruise, surfing, diving, snorkeling, fishing, whale watching, horseback riding, bird watching and Dhow boat tours with specialised Dhow – traditional sailing boats, divers and operators avail-

Islands Mozambique boasts rich pockets of islands with exciting attractions and activities for visitors. The most famous and celebrated of these islands include: Quirimbas Archipelago: This islands host over two dozen islands and islets stretching across 400 kilometres of coastline between Pemba and the Rovuma River. Ibo is of one of the most beautiful and widely known of the Quirimbas islands and it is an enchanting place. Its quiet streets are lined with dilapidated villas and crumbling, moss-covered buildings, and echo with the silent, hollow footsteps of bygone centuries.

The archipelago has an amazing natural beauty with white sands surroounded by awesome hues of turquoise and azure waters as well as green luscious landscape of dense mangrove channels, which

Travel & Tourism

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 april 2015

in nature’s bowels

23

BUDGET TRIP For any Nigerian wishing to visit the country to savour its rich offerings, a talk with your tour operator or any registered tour operator, especially tour operators who specialize in selling packages to Southern African region would help you with the different options available.

But note that there is no direct air link between Nigeria and Mozambique, so you would be required to transit from any of the Southern African countries, notably South Africa.

Of course, you can also transit from either Ethiopia (Addis Ababa) or Kenya (Nairobi).

Mozambique has a national airline, LAM, which operates from its base in Maputo to different regions of the country and some parts of Southern Africa.

Depending on your choice, one would need on the average between $2,000 and $3,000 (N500, 000), all inconclusive (tickets, visa, accommodation, feeding and tours) weekend package for single.

You also would need a visa and perhaps a transit visa if you are flying through South Africa.

savouring its architectural pull, which is an admixture of Portuguese, India, Arabian and traditional, all of which have impacted on the island.

Inhaca Island: Located close to Maputo, the island is noted for its weekend getaway offerings and was not too long part of the mainland area. It is a noted settlement for marine researches particularly its coral reefs, which is a major attraction. It is about 30 kilometres from Maputo with 15 minutes fly time and boat ride of between one and two hours.

makes it an adventurous sight to explore.

This Southern islands is home to the Quirimbas National Park while some of the activities possible here include diving and safari.

Bazaruto Archipelago: Is made of five islands – Bazaruto, Benguera, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue, all offshore and straddled between Vilamkulo in the South and Inhassoro, north of the country while the attraction here is the clear turquoise waters, which is home to a number of colourful fishes. One can explore some adventurous activities such as diving and snorkeling. Bird watch is also a common activity here because of its rich bird life.

The archipelago is also home to the Bazaruto National Park.

Mozambique Island: Inscribed as World Heritage Site in 1991, the island is situated in the Nampula Province and it is also a former Portuguese trading post enroute to India and houses the country’s fortified city. It is known for its historicity and take one back in time, especially just

A lodge in Mozambique

Beaches Given its vast coastal line, the country offers rich beaches of various sizes and varieties for tourists to enjoy the bliss of nature and water related leisure. The list includes: Zavora, Tofo, Barra, Linga Linga, Morrungulo, Pomene, Vilankulo and Inhassoro, all well developed with appointed facilities and activities for the pleasure of the visitors.

Nature and wildlife The country also rates top in this wise with its ample wilderness and safari experience on offerings across the country, especially within the local communities, which still maintain their pristine and natural appeal.

Lake Niassa: This is a naturally beautiful enclave though not yet developed but it thus offered interesting pristine atmosphere and a window to have a bird eye view of how glorious the countryside is.

There is also Niassa reserve, a wildlife enclave, which borders Tanzania and is home to a number of wildlife with its elephant population put at about 16, 000. Others in-

Seafood

An art and craft...A popular attraction for tourists

Mozambique's president, Filipe Nyusi

Tourism minister, Carvalho Muaria

clude lion, antelope, buffalo and zebra.

Limpopo National Park: With rich and abundant wildlife resources, the park, which joining with South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Zimbabwe’s Gonarezhou National Park forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, beckons the visitor.

Other nature and wildlife enclaves to explore while in the country include – Maputo National Reserve, Banhine National Park, Zinave National Park, Pomene National Reserve, Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, Gorongoza National Park, Marromeu National Reserve, Chimanimani National Reserve, Gile National Reserve, Quirimbas National Park and Niassa National Reserve.

Arts and crafts Like most African countries, Mozambique is equally endowed with a rich and colourful array of arts and craft of diverse nature and make. The range is quite wild and enriching, from sculpted pieces, bodily ornaments, carvings, paintings, hand-woven materials, decorative items to household materials are all available and on sale on streets and shops across the country.

Some of the most outstanding and common items include the Capulanas, which are traditional sarong material worn by the women. The Capulanas with its vibrant and bright colours; Missanga necklaces, which are made from exotic missanga beads are also available while Makonde sculptures are also popularly sought after by tourists.

Cuisine The country also offers tourists a rich and wide selection of palates, all of which has roots in its deep historical backgrounds, from India, Portuguese and African. Top on the list perhaps is seafood such as prawns, crabs, crayfish, lobsters and lulas (calamari) as well as the popular grilled catch of the day, which is in the local parlance called peixe grelhade.

The local palate is also a rich one for those who dare to be somewhat adventurous, these are made of either maize or cassava-based staple. Matapa is a special local delicacy, which is made of cooked cassava leaves in a peanut sauce and served with either prawns or crabs and is more popular in the southern regions of the country.

Marine life

24

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

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Sport Splash 25

Interview

'It's a shame I couldn't earn a living with my accountancy degree' p.26

News

U-23 team needs focus, says Onigbinde p.27

EPL

City seek succour as United set to consolidate p.28

Interview

I can't bear being cheated on by my husband – Otu p.31

U-23 star, Efeteboh Oghenekaro, and team coach, Samson Siasia

AAG qualifiers

Zambia should be scared of Nigeria, says Siasia S Vincent Eboigbe

The Team Vincent Eboigbe l Assistant Editor Ajibade Olusesan l Correspondent Charles Ogundiya l Correspondent © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

amson Siasia has allayed fears regarding the qualification of the national U-23 team for the All Africa Games scheduled for Brazzaville, Congo, later in the year.

He said Nigeria had nothing to fear and that it was Zambia, the team’s opponent, who should be scared.

The U-23 side could only manage a 0-0 draw in the first leg of the final round qualifier against Zambia in Abuja, putting qualification for the quadrennial games in doubt.

The fear has led to the inclusion of some

members of the Flying Eagles, who recently won the African Youth Championship in Senegal, into the U-23 side to strengthen it. Players like Taiwo Awoniyi, Mustapha Abdullahi and Bernard Bulbwa have been drafted into the Olympics team to help in securing the ticket.

But Siasia, who has had a charmed career at age-grade championships in the past, winning the AYC in 2005 and getting to the final of the U-20 World Cup later that year, as well as picking a silver medal at the football event of the 2008 Olympics Games, is however not overly disturbed.

“No, I am not bothered, why should I be?”

Siasia replied to a query by Saturday Telegraph.

The former Super Eagles coach was similarly dismissive of the home advantage the Zambians will enjoy during the second leg on Sunday. He noted that the name of the game was goals regardless of where a match was played, whether at home or away, in an oblique reference to and criticism of his players’ inability to get the goals in Abuja in the first leg three weeks earlier.

“We played at home too but look at what happened. If you don’t score goals you don’t win matches whether you are playing at home or away. It is as simple as that,” said an unusually reticent Siasia.

26

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

Oyegbata lines up a javelin throw

'It's a shame I couldn't earn a living with my accountancy degree' How did you get into sports?

I can recall that it was very difficult for me to get a job after I graduated from the University of Lagos. I studied accountancy but it was quite a challenge getting a job just as it has been and continues to be for so many physicallychallenged graduates. After a number of failed attempts at getting a job, and since I couldn’t even bear the thought of begging on the streets, a friend of mine urged me to go into sports. I have since been throwing the javelin and also playing wheelchair basketball.

How frustrating was it not getting an opportunity to use your hard-earned degree?

It was very frustrating. It never occurred to me how myopic a lot of people can be. I had very high hopes of getting a good job after completing my studies but because of my disability, companies would not employ me. After interviews I’d be told that they would get back to me but that never happened. It is very difficult for physically-challenged people to be gainfully employed in this country. And that is why I now do sports as it is the only place where I have been accepted. But I still get discriminated against, especially when heading to training.

I wake up every morning before 5.00am to prepare for training. But by the time I get to the bus stop there is no way of getting to the stadium on time because of the multitude of people waiting to get a bus to their respective places of work; and so many of them don’t give a damn about us. Nobody wants to help us to get on a bus. Our people are so insensitive to our plight.

So how do you make ends meet?

I have a keke (motorised tricycle) that I ride. I bought it from the money I got from Rivers State as a reward for winning a medal at the last National Sports Festival in Lagos. I have been riding it for some time now and it is what I use to take care of my family. Other than that

Kola Oyegbata, a paraplegic, is one of the athletes Nigeria will be looking up to for medals at this year’s All-Africa Games. In this interview with Ifeanyi Ibeh, the javelin thrower, who got married to former Nigerian gymnastics star, Faith Chinedu Ajelo, in 2014, speaks, among other things, on the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Bill that has yet to be signed into law. Excerpts…

I have nothing else besides my family.

But even when able-bodied drivers see me riding my keke on the highway they try to ram me off the road with their cars for reasons best known to them. And the government is not sympathetic to our plight. But it is only the government that can help to bring about a change.

For example, it won’t be a bad idea if at the end of every month a certain sum is handed out as a welfare package to physically-challenged citizens of Nigeria who are not gainfully employed, even if it is the N18,000 minimum wage. It might seem small but it would go a long way in easing some of the problems we face on a daily basis.

Oyegbata

You have been riding your tricycle since 2012. What has been the major challenge you have faced between then and now?

I cannot really pick out a specific one for there have been so many challenges.

Let me start with the police and other security agencies because they have been a terror to me. They are in the habit of harassing and arresting me simply because I ride a keke. And it is not limited to me alone as they also do likewise to other riders. The very first time they stopped me, one of them came very close to insinuating that I may have stolen the keke; that how could a physically-challenged

person like me own a keke. I really felt bad about it and wondered what he would have said if I had mentioned that I have a university degree. At the end of the day they refused to release me until I parted with most of the money that I had on me and the harassment have not ceased to this day. They still come around to extort money from me and other riders here in Surulere.

I also face a lot of hassles from agberos (motor park touts) who are always looking for an excuse to extort money from me. Not that I am looking for anyone to take pity on me, but isn’t it quite obvious to any of these guys that I am physically-challenged? Unfortunately, some of them don’t have a conscience and would look for the slightest excuse to break my rear lights or crack my windshield.

But like I said earlier, it is only the government that can rescue us from these people because I believe that if the government does not look into the attitude of security personnel towards the physically-challenged, a day would come when we would mobilise ourselves and storm Aso Rock and the National Assembly to press home our demands. The Senate passed a bill targeted at helping the physically challenged (the ‘Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Bill’) since March 2014 but Mr President hasn’t signed it into law. I don’t understand why he hasn’t, but I pray he does.

I hope so too, but how do your passengers react upon realising that you are physically-challenged?

Most of the time, I see surprise written all over their faces. Some of them try to encourage me in any way that they can and oftentimes don’t bother to collect their change after paying their fares.

But quite a number of people, upon realising that I am physically-challenged, would wait for another rider to take them to their destinations for reasons best known to them.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

Gaiya: Give new Eagles a chance

T

Gaiya

27

S'Eagles' doctor off to London I

Charles Ogundiya he chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Sports, Godfrey Gaiya, has urged Nigerian fans to give new players in the Super Eagles a chance to excel.

Speaking with Saturday Telegraph, he said the players should not be judged with recent results especially the two friendly matches against Uganda and South Africa.

“Kudos must be given to the technical crew for giving opportunities to some of these young players, and I want the fans to give them a chance too,” he said.

“Many of these boys are just coming into the team and with time they will become great assets that Nigerians will be proud of.

“What remains now is for them to get the confidence to play together as a team; we should not be too quick in condemning the team.”

Speaking further, Gaiya said the era of depending on some big players should be over with more opportunities given to young and committed ones.

He said: “We can’t continue to depend on a particular set of players that have been failing us and sometimes hold the country to ransom.

“There are so many young players out there that if given the opportunity will excel for Nigeria, rather than waiting on some of these over celebrated stars.”

Sport

Two of Team Nigeria's medal hopeful at the championship, Omotayo Abolaji (left) and Alphonsus Aniekeme

African Youth Athletics Championship

Lack of funds threatens Team Nigeria’s participation D Charles Ogundiya

efending champions, Team Nigeria, is on the verge of missing out of the 2nd edition of the African Youth Athletics Championship in Mauritius due to lack of funds.

Speaking with Saturday Telegraph, an official of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria who wanted anonymity, said the federation was waiting for the National Sports Commission to approve the proposal submitted to it since the beginning of the year.

“We are yet to call the athletes to camp with less than two weeks

to the championship,” the official said.

“The last championship we attended was like going through hell and we cannot afford to go through the same harrowing experience again.

“If the NSC cannot make funds available, then Nigeria will not be going for the competition. We are tired of begging anytime we are going for a championship.”

One of the athletes who also spoke with our correspondent said the athletes were in the dark as nothing has been said about camping.

He said: “I saw my name in a newspaper that I have been in-

U-23 team needs focus, says Onigbinde Adekunle Salami

A

former Super Eagles coach, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, has said that the U-23 team seeking a ticket to the football event of the All Africa Games needs focus to excel.

The team under Samson Siasia will take on Zambia in the second leg of the final qualifying round for the continental competition.

Onigbinde said the 0-0 score recorded in Abuja was enough for the Zambian team to confidently swoop on the Nigerian team.

The FIFA and CAF Instructor stressed that the Siasia boys were still on course to grab the ticket if they play for one another.

He said: “Sometimes, an away match like this could be an advantage because with focus, our team will get the result easily. The home team will rush out for goals and if they are checked with good defending and counter play, the match will be open enough for Nigeria to get goals.

“It will also be a boost if our team could manage to score first to throw Zambia into confusion. We have a good team and the coaches need to talk to the players to be alert throughout the match. Any loss of concentration could be costly.”

Nigeria need to avoid a defeat in any form to qualify. Any score draw or outright win will be good enough to land the team in Congo.

Musa Muhammed (left) drafted into the U-23 team for a rescue mission

vited to join the other athletes in camp but I am yet to hear anything.

“I have contacted some of the other athletes and they said they are yet to receive any information. I don’t even know if we are still making the trip.”

Team Nigeria won the first edition of the championships in Warri, Delta State, two years ago and was expected to retain the title in Mauritius.

The competition scheduled to run from April 23 to 26 in the island nation will see more than 15 African countries competing for honours in more than 30 events.

brahim Gyaran, medical doctor of the Super Eagles, is off to London to be part of a capacityenhancing sports science and medicine programme.

The programme, Football Medicine Strategies for Player Care and Science Football Summit, is organised by world football governing body, FIFA, in conjunction with the Isokinetic Group.

An elated Gyaran on Thursday expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation for facilitating his participation in the programme, and promised to use the knowledge gained from the summit maximally for the development of Nigerian sports.

“I will ensure that the knowledge I acquire is used to impact positively on Nigerian sports. I am also aware and delighted that the thinking of the new NFF leadership is to see doctors and physiotherapists working with the national teams transfer some of their knowledge to the medics at the club sides.

“This is commendable and I will be looking forward to sharing some of the knowledge I have and will soon acquire with colleagues at the clubs.”

The Sports Medicine and Science Summit will hold at the Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre in London between April 11 and 13.

It will take more than Novak Djokovic's spectacular form to knock Rafael Nadal off his clay court perch, believes Mark Petchey.

The clay season is set to begin next week with the Monte Carlo Masters from Monday, and culminating with the French Open.

The dominant Djokovic has already won the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Miami Open this year and has been backed by Sky Bet to continue in Monte Carlo - but Petchey insists clay court master Nadal remains the one to watch.

"It's a big call whoever says that Nadal is not the favourite. I can see why people back Djokovic because of the recent success he's had but I've still got to go with Rafa,” he said.

Rafael Nadal

World champion Lewis Hamilton promised that Mercedes would strike back at this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix after being ambushed by Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel in Malaysia.

Vettel’s stunning victory in the heat of Sepang has raised hopes of a genuine battle for the Formula One championship after Hamilton and Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg won 16 of 19 races last year and romped to a one-two finish in this season’s opener in Melbourne.

“As far as I’m aware, I don’t think we have any concerns,” the Briton told reporters. “We’re just focusing on doing a better job. It was an untidy weekend collectively as a group. We could have done a better job, including myself and maybe Nico, I don’t know.”

“We are just trying to understand how we can do better and trying to implement it here,” added Hamilton, who won in China for the third time last year.

Lewis Hamilton

SPORT BRIEFLY

www.newtelegraphonline.com

NEW TELEGRAPH

anchester City have won the last four league meetings with

M

with Willy Sagnol's sixthplaced side only four points outside of a UEFA Europa League spot.

They can also close to within three points of Marseille with a win, and they have a good record at home against them.

Bordeaux have not lost at home to their upcoming opponents in their past 19 matches against them at the Stade Chaban Delmas.

Fight at Old Trafford

But with the two sides above them not playing at the weekend - PSG take on Bastia in the Coupe de la Ligue final, with Lyon's match against the same opponents therefore pushed back to next Wednesday Marseille can close the gap with victory at one of their least-favourite grounds.

Bordeaux, though, also have plenty to play for in the European spectrum,

league wins, Manchester City's late season goes from bad to worse. The champions have lost three of their

weekend. Those are two sides fighting for survival, and they both beat what is supposed to be a very strong

very well, thrashing Tottenham 3-0 before taking revenge against Liverpool with a 2-1 win to complete

City seek succour as United set to consolidate

Time: 4:00pm

Gignac

arseille can capitalise on top two PSG and Lyon's inactivity at the weekend, and close the gap at the summit of the Ligue 1 standings.

Marcelo Bielsa's men occupy third place and a UEFA Champions League qualifying spot in the French top flight on 57 points - five adrift of leaders PSG and four behind Lyon.

Marseille look to end Bordeaux hoodoo M

Olic calls for reaction ahead of Wolfsburg

evilla midfielder Vicente Iborra has stressed the importance of his team playing at home against Barcelona on Saturday.

The 27-year-old former Levante player believes the Andalusians must show Barca the respect they deserve but intends to help his side maintain an unbeaten run at the Sanchez Pizjuan that has lasted over 12 months.

“We know if we play well and do things correctly we are capable of beating anyone,” Iborra told Sevilla’s radio station.

“The current leaders are coming to visit us and they are a team we respect, as we do all others, and we know it’s going to be difficult to win.

“But don’t forget that we are at home, in front of our own supporters, which makes it an extra player for us and we’ll make it tough for them.

“I’m sure we are going to leave everything out on the pitch and make the fans proud of us. I think this will be a game to enjoy, to see what level we are at and try to beat one of the greats.

“We want to maintain our unbeaten record because it’s important to achieve our ambitions and objectives.”

S

‘Sevilla can shock Barca’

Iborra

Global Football Special Sport SKA’s Ahmed Musa may score his 10th league goal of the season when

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Musa chases goal No 10 to Amkar Perm

Ideye

oach Mark Hughes could call winger Victor Moses into action when Stoke City face West Ham at the Upton Park today (Saturday).

The Chelsea loanee has been sidelined for about three weeks due to injury and was not part of the squad that lost 3-1 to Chelsea last weekend but reports suggested that the Nigerian has returned to full fitness and maybe handed a role at the Upton Park today.

Moses has been in fine form recently scoring two goals in his last four matches for the Potters and his availability will delight the club’s supporters.

After an uninspiring performance, including missing a sitter in West Brom’s 4-1 loss to QPR last weekend, Brown Ideye will be desperate to return to scoring ways when the Baggies host Leicester City also today.

C

Stories by Ajibade Olusesan

zz Ideye, Anichebe welcome Leicester

Moses set to return for West Ham tie

EAGLES FOCUS

28 SATURDAY N 11 ap

teve Bruce has warned his relegationthreatened Hull City side that there can no repeat of their dismal display at Swansea City when they travel to Southampton on Saturday.

Hull are hovering perilously just above the Premier League relegation zone after picking up only two points from their last five matches ahead of their trip to St Mary's Stadium.

They must attempt to deny Southampton a third consecutive home win and Bruce knows his side can ill afford another setback on the south coast, as they sit just two points above the drop zone.

"We have to be better at Southampton. To get a result in the Premier League, you usually have to play well," Bruce is quoted as saying in the Hull Daily Mail.

"Sometimes it happens when you have an off day and you don't produce a result.

But we can't afford any more now.

"The previous seven games tell me it was a one-off, especially the way we played against Chelsea [in a 3-2 defeat].

We set high standards and need to get back to them."

Bruce demands Hull's response S

Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe has rubbished suggestions Floyd Mayweather Jr versus Manny Pacquiao is in jeopardy.

Fraught negotiations have been a constant subplot in the making of Mayweather versus Pacquiao over the years. Another possible hitch was put forward by the Filipino's promoter, Bob Arum, who told Yahoo Sport on 8 April that the lack of a signed contract between MGM Resorts – the venue – and the respective promoters had left what will be the richest fight in boxing history in doubt.

But Ellerbe has furiously hit back at Arum, indicating his counterpart is attempting to create problems where there are none just because he is not the "lead promoter".

"The reason this fight is in Las Vegas is because Floyd Mayweather insisted it be in Las Vegas.

It is no secret that Bob is the one who wanted to shop the fight around," he said. "You have to remember, he went on a profanity-laced tirade ridiculing the MGM and its management.

We are not falling for those tactics. Every time he doesn't get his way, he goes running to the press misrepresenting the facts.”

Mayweather/ Pacquiao

last five league games, and the worrying thing is, the opposition has been poor.

Man City lost 2-1 at Liverpool, which can be forgiven, but the 1-0 loss at Burnley really was a shocking performance by the title holders, and they proved it was no one-off when they lost 2-1 at Crystal Palace at the

Wenger

lint Hill has praised the impact of QPR boss Chris Ramsey and asked fans for a "cauldron of fire and hate" against Chelsea on Sunday.

QPR welcome Premier League leaders Chelsea to Loftus Road on Sunday, a game that never fails to serve up a ferocious atmosphere between the London neighbours.

The Blues suffered a surprise defeat there un-

C der Andre Villas-Boas in October 2011 when they had two players sent off, and John Terry was later banned and fined for racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.

Hill believes the home supporters have an important role to play on Sunday, when Jose Mourinho's side will be expected to collect another comfortable three points in their quest for the league title.

“Everyone expects

Chelsea to win it and steamroll us but we were there a few years ago [when QPR beat Chelsea 1-0] and if we could just replicate that same kind of atmosphere and cauldron of fire and hate, to a certain degree, that the fans give Chelsea. If we can try and get anything near what happened that day, we pulled off an absolute miracle.

I’m sure we could do it again with that same support,” he said.

ogo national team forward Dove Wome says their Africa Cup of Nations 2017 qualifying group will be tough but challenging, and he is positive of advancing to the finals to be staged in Gabon.

Togo were pitted against minnows Djibouti, Liberia and Tunisia in Group A, but Wome says Djibouti and Liberia will be their main concern as they could offer more reward in the end.

“For us it’s a tough draw, with Tunisia there,” Wome tells KickOff.com. “But we can’t focus only on Tunisia, because for us to qualify we have to start well against Djibouti and Liberia, so we’ll focus more on them in order to collect points.”

After missing out of this year’s AFCON, the SuperSport United attacker reflects on their previous qualifying campaign in which Togo lost out to Ghana and Guinea after failing to win their first two matches at home.

“Last AFCON [qualifiers], we never started well, but now we have to collect maximum points in our first two group games. I think [if we do that], we will be first Wome in the group.”

Wome reflects on tough draw T

uventus are planning a shock move for Espanyol centre-back Hector Moreno, according to reports in the player’s native Mexico.

Radio Formula believes the Serie A giants are set to swoop for the 27-year-old as back up to Andrea Barzagli for next season after the Italian international missed the first half of this term through injury.

Moreno, who has won 58 caps for Mexico, has recovered from a broken leg to make 12 starts for Los Pericos this term, while the Old Lady see him as similar in playing style to Barzagli as he can operate in a back four as well as a three-man defence.

J

a league double.

Last weekend, Man United beat Aston Villa 3-1. And all this without Robin Van Persie or indeed Falcao's input. In Wayne Rooney, they have a striker who is loving his football at the moment, scoring for club and country with ease. He's going to be a nightmare for City.

Juventus plot Moreno move

team.

Thing is, City have lost their edge, and there may well be enough confidence problems to ensure another long day against what should be a very motivated Manchester United.

After losing to the Gunners in the FA Cup, Manchester United have responded

Let’s attack Chelsea, QPR star tells mates

rsene Wenger knows in-form Arsenal must be ready to roll up their sleeves and win the battle when they travel to Premier League strugglers Burnley on Saturday.

Seven consecutive top-flight victories have resulted in Arsenal moving up to second in the table with seven games remaining.

Wenger's side is seven points behind Chelsea, who also have a game in hand, and it would appear unlikely their London rivals will be denied a first Premier League title for five years.

Arsenal have not given up hope, though, and they will be expected to secure all three points at Turf Moor this weekend to complete a league double over Burnley following their 3-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium in November.

A shock 1-0 victory over champions Manchester City last month was secondbottom Burnley's only win in their last 10 league matches, but Wenger is not expecting an easy ride against Sean Dyche's men.

He said: "Burnley are quite efficient at home, therefore we have to make sure we produce the expected performance.

"You have to be at their level of physical performance and then we want to produce our level of technical performance."

Wenger up for Burnley battle A

rivals Manchester United and are bidding to become the only team to beat the Red Devils in five straight league matches, but they come to Old Trafford in very wobbly form, to say the least.

While Manchester United have bounced back from their 2-1 home defeat to Arsenal to reel off three straight

11am 4pm 6pm 8pm

NO TEAM P PTS 1 Barcelona 28 68 2 Real Madrid 28 64 3 Valencia 28 60 4 Atletico 28 59 5 Sevilla 28 55 6 Villarreal 28 49 7 Malaga 28 44 8 A. Bilbao 28 39 9 Sociedad 28 36 10 Celta Vigo 28 35 11 Vallecano 28 35 12 Espanyol 28 34 13 Getafe 28 29 14 Eibar 28 28 15 Elche 28 27 16 La Coruna 28 26 17 Almeria 28 25 18 Levante 28 25 19 Granada 28 23 20 Cordoba 28 18

La Liga P PTS 26 64 26 54 26 47 26 45 26 39 26 38 26 37 26 34 26 34 26 33 26 30 26 30 26 29 26 27 26 25 26 25 26 24 26 23

Bundesliga NO TEAM 1 Bayern 2 Wolfsburg 3 Gladbach 4 Leverkusen 5 Schalke 6 Augsburg 7 Hoffenheim 8 Frankfurt 9 Bremen 10 Dortmund 11 Mainz 12 FC Cologne 13 H. Berlin 14 Hannover 15 Freiburg 16 Hamburger 17 Paderborn 18 Stuttgart

NO TEAM P PTS 1 Chelsea 29 67 2 Man City 30 61 3 Arsenal 30 60 4 Man United 30 59 5 Liverpool 30 54 6 Souton 30 53 7 Tottenham 30 53 8 Swansea City 30 43 9 West Ham 30 42 10 Stoke City 30 42 11 C. Palace 30 36 12 Newcastle 30 35 13 Everton 30 34 14 West Brom 30 33 15 Hull City 30 28 16 Aston Villa 30 28 17 Sunderland 30 26 18 Burnley 30 25 19 Q.P.R. 30 22 20 Leicester 29 19

PREMIER LEAGUE

TABLES NO TEAM P PTS 1 Juventus 28 67 2 Roma 28 53 3 Lazio 28 52 4 Sampdoria 28 48 5 Napoli 28 47 6 Fiorentina 28 46 7 Torino 28 39 8 AC Milan 28 38 9 Inter Milan 28 37 10 Genoa 27 37 11 Palermo 28 35 12 Udinese 27 33 13 Empoli 28 33 14 Sassuolo 28 32 15 Chievo 28 32 16 Verona 28 32 17 Atalanta 28 26 18 Cagliari 28 21 19 Cesena 28 21 20 Parma 26 9

Serie A

Amkar Perm' host his club on Monday.

Musa has not scored since he hit a double in the 4-2 win against Grozny more than a month ago and he will be delighted to end the drought against Perm who also have Nigeria’s Fegor Ogude in their fold.

Anthony Ujah of Cologne has also not scored in the last three German Bundelsiga matches for his club and will fancy his chances when his side welcome Hoffenheim tomorrow (Sunday).

Ujah has scored nine goals in his last 26 matches for Cologne. He has two assists to his credit.

After failing to score in two consecutive matches, Moses Simon recorded his seventh goal from 10 games for Gent as they beat Kortrijk 2-0 and the Nigerian will want to continue in that fashion when they travel to face Sporting Charleroi in the Belgian league playoffs today.

The newly capped Super Eagle forward who has won six man-of-the match awards, has also been nominated for the Ebony Shoe award given to the best player of Africa origin in Belgium.

EPL Saturday Swansea v Everton 12:45pm Southampton v Hull 3pm Sunderland v Palace 3pm Tottenham v Aston Villa 3pm West Brom v Leicester 3pm West Ham v Stoke 3pm Burnley v Arsenal 5:30pm Sunday QPR v Chelsea 1:30pm Man Utd v Man City 4pm

Getafe v Villarreal Espanyol v Bilbao Sociedad v Deportivo Córdoba v Elche

Sunday

Real v Eibar 3pm Málaga v Atletico 5pm Sevilla v Barcelona 7pm Almería v Granada 9pm Celta de Vigo v Vallecano 9pm

La Liga Saturday

SERIA A Saturday Genoa v Cagliari 5pm Parma v Juventus 5pm Verona v Inter Milan 7:45pm Sunday Cesena v Chievo 11:30am Atalanta v Sassuolo 2pm Lazio v Empoli 2pm Napoli v Fiorentina 2pm Torino v Roma 2pm Udinese v Palermo 2pm Milan v Sampdoria 7:45pm

Bundesliga Saturday Mainz v Leverkusen 2:30pm M’gladbach v Dortmund 2:30pm Bayern v Frankfurt 2:30pm Schalke v Freiburg 2:30pm Paderborn v Augsburg 2:30pm Hamburger v Wolfsburg 5:30pm Sunday Köln v Hoffenheim 2:30pm Stuttgart v Bremen 4:30pm

FIXTURES

s Ivica Olic prepares to line up against Wolfsburg for the first time since joining Hamburg, the Croatian says his teammates need to start producing results.

After appointing Peter Knaber as interim replacement for Josef Zinnbauer last month, fortunes have not improved for the Bundesliga strugglers who have taken just two points from their last possible 21.

Therefore, Hamburg are in the midst of a relegation battle for a second season running with Saturday's visit from second-placed Wolfsburg likely to prove a daunting task.

Olic swapped Wolfsburg for Hamburg in January, having scored the opener in November's reverse fixture as his former employers ran out 2-0 winners.

A

reunion NEW TELEGRAPH pril 2015

Sport

29

30

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

Nigerian League Rendezvous

New Shooting players yet to find rhythm – Olabiyi

Stories by Charles Ogundiya

S

hooting Stars of Ibadan midfielder, Rasheed Olabiyi, has said the inability of some of the new players in the team to strike an

understanding has contributed to the dismal start to the new season by the Oluyole Warriors.

Speaking with League Rendezvous, the former Enyimba of Aba player said he would not have joined the team if he was not sure of their ambition for

the season.

“Some of the new players are yet to find their rhythm but with the break, the coaches have been working on the players and we now have a semblance of a team,” Olabiyi said.

“The players are ready to

show the rest of the teams that Shooting Stars are not just in the league to complete the number.

“I joined this club because I believe in the team and nothing has changed. It is just for the players to find their rhythm and Shooting will become the team

Enyimba to concentrate on the league – Udoji

E

nyimba International of Aba captain, Chinedu Udoji, has said the players have resolved to concentrate on the league after their ouster from the CAF Champions League.

Speaking with our correspondent, Udoji said it was unfortunate that the team crashed out from the Champions League but added that they have put that behind them.

“We wanted to get to the group stage of the Champions League, but it is unfortunate that we are out of the competition,” he said.

“After the loss, we agreed within ourselves (the players) to focus on the league and win it after a long time.

“We lost out to Kano Pillars in the last two seasons but now we want to win it. To achieve that the players need to put in 100 percent with the management expected to do their part too.”

The Federation Cup champions will be away to league defending champions, Kano Pillars, when the league resumes on Rangers' Razaq Adegbite challenges Gabros' Chibuzor Okonkwo during a league match April 19.

to beat.”

The Ibadan side will be playing away to Nasarawa United when the league resumes on April 19, with Olabiyi calling on his team mates to go all out for an away win against the Lafia based outfit.

No.

Team

P

W

D

L

PTS

GF

GA

GD

1

Taraba FC

3

2

1

0

7

4

2

2

2

Heartland FC

2

2

0

0

6

7

3

4

3

El-Kanemi

3

2

0

1

6

5

3

2

4

Gabros Utd

3

2

0

1

6

4

2

2

5

Kwara Utd

3

1

2

0

5

3

2

1

6

Enyimba

3

1

2

0

5

2

1

1

7

Wikki

3

1

1

1

4

3

3

0

8

Sharks FC

3

1

1

1

4

2

2

0

9

Sunshine

3

1

1

1

4

2

2

0

10

Abia Warriors

3

1

1

1

4

3

4

-1

11

Giwa FC

3

1

1

1

4

1

3

-2

12

Kano Pillars

1

1

0

0

3

2

0

2

13

Warri Wolves

2

1

0

1

3

3

2

1

14

Lobi Stars

3

0

3

0

3

2

2

0

15

Rangers

3

1

0

2

3

4

5

-1

16

Nasarawa

3

1

0

2

3

4

6

-2

17

Dolphins FC

2

0

1

1

1

1

2

-1

18

Akwa Utd

3

0

1

2

1

0

2

-2

19

Bayelsa Utd

3

0

1

2

1

1

4

-3

20

Shooting

2

0

0

2

0

1

4

-3

Sunday, 19.04.2015 - 4. Matchday Kano Pillars vs Enyimba Bayelsa Utd vs Taraba FC Kwara Utd vs Heartland FC Lobi Stars vs Sharks FC Akwa Utd vs Gabros United Rangers vs Giwa FC Sunshine vs Dolphins FC Warri Wolves vs El-Kanemi Warriors Abia Warriors vs Wikki Tourists Nasarawa Utd vs Shooting Stars

'It's an advantage playing on beach and grass' Warri Wolves striker, Abu Azeez, in this exclusive interview with League Rendezvous, says his best brand of car is Honda. He also talks about his exploits in the colours of Wolves and sundry issues. Excerpts…

What was your experience in the CAF Confederations Cup in Ethiopia?

I really enjoyed my trip to Ethiopia.

It was fun despite the cold climatic condition, a very nice place to be. The people were hospitable.

Are you enjoying your game at Warri Wolves?

I have to admit I am having a great time playing for Warri Wolves, a great team with good players and some of the best coaches in the country.

How did you come into football?

I grew up in Lagos, Sabo Ajangbadi around Ojo Iyana Iba. Every normal kid wanted to play football as pastime, while some of us grew up aiming to

become stars. That was how I became a footballer.

Professionally, which clubs have you played for?

I started with Owibeseb FC of Lagos before moving to Julius Berger which became Bridge FC. In 2012. I moved to Kwara United of Ilorin before joining Warri Wolves last year.

Did your parents support your choice of career?

My parents didn't support my choice of career. My father wanted me to concentrate on my education, same as my mother. But I stuck to my decision.

What can you say was the greatest challenge of your career?

That was when I was playing for Kwara United. I was unable to play up to my full potential.

What has been your biggest achievement as a player?

That will be when I won the highest goal scorer award in Morocco during the Africa Beach Soccer championship.

Do you have a favourite car?

I love Honda products.

If you were not a footballer, what would you be?

I would have been in entertainment.

Maybe a Disc Jockey, a producer or a director. That’s my other passion - entertainment.

Are you happy that you chose football as a career?

I am so happy playing football, because if not for football, I am not sure I would have achieved what I had today.

Can you compare beach football and grass football as someone who currently plays both?

Grass football is completely different from beach football. Playing on the sand you have to be technically gifted and full of energy to be able to succeed. Playing beach football is a big advantage to most of us combining both.

Which of the coaches that you played for actually made an indelible impact on your career?

Coach Audu Adamu Ejo, the Beach Eagles coach, is the first to have the most long-lasting impact Azeez playing for Beach Eagles on my career as a footballer.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

Sport

31

I can't bear cheating by my husband – Otu

All Africa Games gold medallist in table tennis, Cecilia Otu-Akpan, in this interview with Ajibade Olusesan, says the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation still needs to do more for the total revival of the game in the country.

You won the maiden edition of the Lagos Open in 2013 but you crashed out early this year. What happened?

I think I was unlucky with the draw this time, although lack of training is another major factor because where we are training in my state is not conducive. We are using just one board, a local board. But in Lagos we were struggling to cope with the board and the speed of the balls, while other players were battling maybe with the atmosphere, so it was tough.

The Egyptians have been dominating the game in Africa. They have completely taken over from Nigeria what do you think the problem is?

I think the Egyptians were already grooming the players they have now back then when we were dominating in Africa.

Most of their players are 17, 18 years old and that is why even their top players are still playing U-21 tournaments while we have 27, 28-year-old players in our senior national team. It is not that the age of the Nigerian players is affecting our game, but the Egyptians have good training programme, good trainers and coaches and are disciplined people.

We need quality training and encouragement. What we need for training is difficult to acquire by individual players; rubbers, boards and things like that are expensive, they need to support us. We need to be encouraged, they need to call us regularly to know if we are doing well mentally, financially because you cannot be unhappy and want to go and train. If they want us to be winning, let them take care of us. I came to the Lagos Open with my money, they don’t even know where I am staying. I paid for my hotel and everything and nobody came to ask me what was happening. It is annoying, I felt like I have been left alone.

There are facilities in Lagos but are you suggesting the NTTF should also provide some in other states?

Oh yes! Most of us playing in the main team are not staying in Lagos and we cannot leave our various homes to reside in Lagos. So what I am saying is that let them identify places where we have more players and provide facilities in the states where they are training.

Nigeria did not do badly at the last All Africa Games in Maputo, but do you think we can improve on that performance in Congo 2015?

We have the capacity to defend our titles if they can take care of us. I can assure you that we will deliver good results in Congo.

We should have won the gold in the Women’s team event of the last International Table Tennis Africa Senior Championship in Cairo if you had not lost the final

match against Egypt. What happened in the game?

I like to say the truth, I did not prepare well for the tournament. On January 16, I got a call from the secretary that I should send my international passport for the Cairo trip. I was not informed that we would be going to Cairo or I would be among the players that would go there and I was still having my Christmas holiday. So I was not really in good shape for the tournament unlike Edem Offiong, for instance, who was training in Portugal up to that point and did not have the kind of problem that I had. I know my colleagues who are based abroad were taken care of by their clubs; they have the facilities and were in good shape. But if you watch that match you will discover that the result was so close despite the fact that I did not train very well.

You have been around for about 10 years, what has been keeping you going?

It is training and the love for the game. I really love table tennis, it is not like boxing, taekwondo or other combat sports, it is not like football that you will train and become masculine. If I tell you that I am into sport you will doubt it because I maintain my feminine shape.

You came back from maternity to win the maiden edition of Lagos Open in 2013.

What was the motivation?

After coming back from maternity, I noticed that it was difficult for me to break into the national team because they thought I was not fit. There was a competition in France for which I wasn't picked.

There was another one in India and they simply told me I won’t go and there was nothing I could do about it. So, I told myself that I had to prove to these people that I was still a top player and waited until when we had a competition in Nigeria to prove my point. They seeded four Nigerian

If I tell you that I am into sport you will doubt it because I maintain my feminine shape

players and I was not included and they even told me to go and play qualifiers and I told myself these people were looking down on me and I was not going to come.

But the vice president of NTTF who is from my place intervened and he offered to pay my entry fee. That is why I participated in that tournament and defeated everyone that came my way.

You were selected for the next big tournament thereafter but you did not do too well in Glasgow 2014 I met the champion in the first round because of lack of exposure. If you don’t go out and play in pro-tours and championships you will not get good rankings and you could face even the world number one in the first round of that kind of competition. Although I fought so hard in that game, but I did not have enough experience to defeat my opponent who went all the way to win the gold.

Your friend and partner, Offiong Edem, is playing abroad and we have some other big stars plying their trades for clubs in Europe, why have you not gotten one?

It is difficult to get a club abroad because you have to be visible in international competitions. They have to know

you and what you have done in pro-tours and big championships. But we are not attending so many big tournaments and that makes it difficult.

What attracted your husband to you?

Maybe because I am a star. He is older than me with about 13 years and I married him when I was just 22 years old. I observed that he was God-fearing and when I was much younger I usually prayed to have a husband that was God-fearing, that will not cheat on me because I am very jealous. When you don’t cheat on me, I will have peace.

What were those things he said to you before you agreed to marry him?

He said that I was so beautiful, that he liked my eyes and complexion and he wanted to marry me because I was much younger than him so that he can continue to enjoy the marriage even when he is old. And, more importantly, he said he loved me.

You are really beautiful, so how did you handle male admirers before you got married?

I did not give anybody any chance to try to do something funny with me. I am an ‘indoor person’ and those who would have wanted to do that with me were those I was close to and looked up to as my brothers.

So it was difficult for them to start any rubbish with me because they knew I will cut off the platonic relationship that we had. I don’t like sex. And again, you cannot entice me with money because as a young player I also was making some money from the allowances we were getting from the federation. I also know that it is difficult for men to give you money without wanting to sleep with you and you lose your honour and dignity once a man has had sex with you. I was conscious of that until my husband came.

32

Sport

Lifestyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

Porn star

offers Dynamo striker sex for scoring

M

ost players are usually offered money as an incentive to keep finding the back of the net, but not Dynamo Moscow’s Alexander Kokorin, who has been offered a marathon 16-hour sex session with porn star, Alina Henessy, and all he has to do is score FIVE more goals!

Yeremenko

According to the Metro, the Russian porn actress Alina Yeremenko, whose stage name is Alina Henessy, is so desperate to see her side do well that she has offered herself up as the prize.

Dynamo are currently fighting to get into next season’s Europa League, and sit three points off in fifth place. With 10

games to to, Kokorin has seven goals to his name so far.

And in a interview with a Russian sports magazine, she revealed that she has a little crush on the striker – rating him 10/10 for looks. “Football is like porn because it is full of pretty boys,” she said. “If before the end of the [Russian]

Lewandowski, wife in hot photo

Michael Jackson’s daughter is American soccer star's WAG

P

aris Jackson, daughter of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has now joined the legions of football WAGs by dating American soccer youth Chester Castellaw, according to the Daily Star.

The 16-year-old apparently informed pals on a private Facebook page she set up to avoid internet trolls from baiting her since the death of her father six years ago.

The young man in question is 18-year-old Castellaw, who turns out for amateur side Real So Cal, and their relationship was confirmed after she posted a picture of them together with the caption “My fav” alongside a love heart emoji.

She has since uploaded a number of follow up selfies of both of them huddling close together looking happy and loved up.

Contrary to the flashy lifestyle her father used to live, the pair are said to be keen on keeping their relationship low-key, and enjoy working out together in the local park and enjoying down to earth dates.

Castellaw’s family, are also millionaires, thus ending any talk of him only being with her for her money, and an anonymous source close to the pair said; “Staying under the radar has done wonders for Paris. It has allowed her to work through her issues in peace and live a happy, private life.

“Chester might be a long-term boyfriend, or just a flash in the pan, but it’s good to see Paris enjoying the Paris same everyday life as a normal teenager.”

championship Alexander Kokorin scores five goals, I promise to hold a 16-hour sex marathon with him as a thank you.”

And if that wasn’t incentive enough, Henessy is the most recent recipient of Adult Video News’ Porn Oscars Award for best sex scene in a foreign movie. Alexander, shoudn’t screw this up!

A

It's hard to wait around for something you know might never happen; but it's harder to give up when you know it's everything you want.”

- Unknown

Stories courtesy Dailymail

Lewandowski with wife, Anna

s a professional footballer, it is no surprise that Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski is incredibly fit and that he has a body made of muscles.

His wife is even fitter though! Anna Lewandowska is a real health freak.

The Polish athlete is a graduate of Warsaw’s Academy of Physical Education.

She is also a specialist in nutrition and a karate star who has won international medals.

The husband and wife did a sexy photoshoot together recently.

SATURDAY

Dear Love Doctor, 'My wife calls any number she sees on my phone'

p.35

Life Experience

'I lied about cheating on him just to breakup with him'

p.34

L ve&Lv ng SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2015

33

'We found love at a police checkpoint' Confession

As I watched the passengers of the second bus alight from their vehicle, my eyes met with those of a pretty young lady

It is said that love works in a sweet and mysterious way.

That is why anybody can find love at any place and at any time.

In this story, a little inconvenience on a journey due to police stop-and-search operations leads a man into finding his life partner.

A

few years ago, the Inspector General of Police issued an order dismantling roadblocks across the country which many people considered as a good one. Police ought to patrol the roads instead of mounting road blocks.

Traveling on Nigerian roads is largely regarded as a horrible experience because Nigerian roads are very bad.

In those days of checkpoints you couldn’t travel even a range of 100 meters without coming in contact with a bad spot on the road or a police checkpoints.

However, it is said that every disappointment is a blessing. I met the love of my life when the bus I was traveling in was forced to stop at a police checkpointyears back.

I’m a businessman and traveler. A few years ago, I was traveling a bus which took off from Lagos. The bus was headed for Onitsha.

It was one of the regular trips I made to the east in other to supply products to my customers across the Niger, meet with my business partners and purchase some important goods for sale back in Lagos.

I silently prayed for the police not to delay us for too long so that I wouldn’t miss my appointment with my customers and business partners.

The police ordered the driver to stop and park by the side of the road for a search. All the passengers of the bus had to come down and the police began to search everyone’s bag.

Many passengers complained loudly that their time was being wasted by the police. They gathered in small groups close to the bus and patiently watched the policemen search the bus thoroughly.

We thought that our bus was the only one the policemen were going to

search that afternoon.

But to our surprise, as our bus was being searched, the policemen ordered another traveling bus to stop for a search and the passengers in that bus had to come down too.

As I watched the passengers of the second bus alight from their vehicle, my eyes met with those of a pretty young lady who was among those alighting from the bus.

Her face looked so familiar. It was as though we had met somewhere before. But I couldn’t quite figure out where. I walked up to her and we got talking.

She was nice and friendly and before our buses resumed their trips, we exchanged phone numbers and addresses.

And of course, by the time I returned to Lagos, I first went in search of Nkechi using the Festac Town address she had given to me.

When I got to her place in Festac Town, Nkechi received me very warmly as if she had been expecting me all along. She prepared a very sumptuous dish of pepper soup with pounded yam for me and I ate to my satisfaction.

After the meal, Nkechi said to me: "I know very well that the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach.

That's why I wanted to show you that I am a very good cook. In fact, if you need a woman in your life who can cook, you can surely count on me."

It was as though she was openly offering me her love and friendship and waiting to see my reaction. To tell the

truth, I was overjoyed to hear her speak to me in this manner because she had now clearly revealed her mind concerning me.

Previously, I had been a little afraid to open up to her and tell her that I wanted her for a wife. I was scared that she might turn down my proposal. But now, after hearing her words, I felt great relief in my heart and that encouraged me to open up and express my feelings to her.

One of the things I told Nkechi was that I am not a womanizer and that she should not think that the way I fell in love with her is the same way I fall in love with other women and flirt around.

I told her that I am a one woman man, which simply means that I date and remain committed to one woman at a time. I told her that since the first time I set eyes on her, she stirred something deep within my soul and I know that I have found my life partner in her.

After only six weeks of knowing Nkechi, I made up my mind completely to marry her. My family members said that I was being too hasty with my decision to marry her.

They claimed that I was in too much of a hurry to marry her and warned me that if I rushed to marry her, Nkechi could just disappoint me in the end.

I remember that during our family meeting, my elder brother warned me, saying: "Do not rush into marriage. If you rush into marriage, you will end up rushing out."

However, even though some members of my family and friends advised me to postpone the marriage and allow for some more time to know her better, I refused to postpone the marriage because I knew that Nkechi was certainly not going to disappoint me.

And I was right. I went ahead to wed Nkechi and ever since I have known peace. We now have three children and are living happily ever after.

34

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 april 2015

Miley Cyrus enjoys a getaway to Northern California without boyfriend Patrick Schwarzenegger Love News

I

Real Love

[Chorus:] Real love I'm searchin' for a real love Someone to set my heart free Real love I'm searchin' for a real love

because of their religious beliefs and the customer's sexual orientation.

Cotton said: 'These laws are modelled on that and a lot of the concerns of discrimination haven't been borne to bear over the last 20 years. But I also think it’s important that we have a sense of perspective about our priorities. In Iran they hang you for the crime of being gay.'

Miley responded in her own unique way 'Senator Cotton thinks gay community needs to get “perspective” cuz “In Iran they hang you for the crime of being gay.” Let's stir some s**t up! Senator Cotton (202) 224-2353 !!!! Happy Hippies call & express why freedom is important to us & our country!'

With much attention placed on the legisation, Governor Mike Pence of Indiana - who Miley called an 'a**hole' - has since 'fixed' the

Religious Freedom Act to no longer allow employers, landlords or public accommodation and restaurant owners to cite their religious beliefs to refuse service or custom.

However, LGBT activists are still unhappy that in healthcare a private pharmacist could still deny legitimate prescriptions and in education a parent could sue a teacher if they intervene when their child harasses a perceived to be LGBT child.

No doubt Miley's political activism is something her boyfriend's mother Maria Shriver and father Arnold Schwarzenegger could get behind.

The Terminator was previously Governor of California, and his estranged-wife is the niece of the late former President John F. Kennedy and senator Robert F. Kennedy.

Miley has been dating their son Patrick for around six months.

'I lied about cheating on him just to breakup with him' met David three years ago at my local park.

We both had an instant attraction to one another and it didn’t take long until we were meeting at the park every day.

David had the most amazing smile I had ever seen and I dreamt of what it would be like to kiss him every night. Finally, a month later, we went on our first date to the movies.

It was a magical evening that ended in our first kiss. It was even a better kiss then I had imagined.

The first six months went in a whirlwind of amazing sexual encounters and lots of new experiences. We had both fallen in love with each other, but somehow I knew David loved me more.

It wasn’t that I didn’t think he was a great guy, I just wasn’t sure he was “the one”. A year into our relationship, he started mentioning marriage and kids. This freaked me out big time as I was still only 21 years old and didn’t even know if I wanted kids yet.

The more he fell in love with me, the more I became unsure. It was horrible watching him put his whole heart into our relationship, while I just went with the flow.

My friends and family started to notice I wasn’t as enthusiastic about David as I once was, yet he remained clueless. Once we hit our two-year mark, I knew it wasn’t fair on David anymore and attempted my first “break up” conversation.

It didn’t go to plan and I ended up agreeing to let him move into my flat, so we could finally start our lives together.

David had a way with words, matched with those adorable puppy dog eyes, and I had a soft spot for him because deep down inside I did still love him, I just wasn’t sure I was in love with him.

Mary J. Blige

We are lovers true and through and though We made it through the storm I really want you to realize I really want to put you on I've been searchin' for someone To satisfy my every need Won't you be my inspiration Be the real love that I need

M

iley Cyrus is enjoying a getaway to Northern California, but this time her boyfriend Patrick Schwarzenegger wasn't in tow.

The couple recently put his Spring Break antics behind them after he was caught on camera looking rather flirty with a university pal and doing body shots off her stomach.

Patrick denied any wrongdoing - saying the girl was a pal's girlfriend - but he was back home in Los Angeles while Miley was further North in the state on Tuesday.

Last week the singer's tweets served to cause havoc at the office of one particular Arkansas-based senator who made controversial remarks about the gay community in relation to the Indiana Religious Freedom Reformation Act. Miley, 22, was dressed like a hippie as she enjoyed Big Sur with her PA best friend Cheyne Thomas.

Cyrus stepped out on the sunny day wearing a striped maxi skirt with a cropped gypsy top and beanie hat.

She wore an Eighties-style bomber jacket over her shoulders and black boots on her feet as she and her pal checked out the local town.

Last Thursday, Miley took to Twitter to incite her followers against Senator Tom Cotton who had made emotive comments in regard to an Indiana law which would allow certain businesses to deny services

Love Songs

Life Experience

A week before he was going to move into my flat, I tried to have the “break up” conversation again, which ended with him moving in a day earlier.

These types of events followed for the next five months and I was getting really frustrated with myself for not having the strength to be honest with David. By now he had mapped out our whole lives together and I didn’t want a bar of it.

One night when I was over at my girlfriend’s house, I confided in her about the whole situation. That was the night we came up with the plan.

In David’s eyes I was complete wife material, I could do no wrong.

Even if I did get around to breaking up with him, he would continue to chase me until I went back. That was when my friend suggested I pretend that I had cheated on him. That way it would take me off the pedestal David placed me on and hopefully end the relationship for good.

The thought of crushing him like that broke my heart more than the thought of not being with him anymore, but I had to do something drastic in order for David to move on. So I organised a night out on the town with a bunch of my girlfriends.

Already David was shady about

Of course, I was never going to actually cheat, but I did need to get very drunk so it was more believable

the idea, seeing as I barely went out for drinks with them anymore, but he still wanted me to have a good time.

I think he sensed something was wrong because as I was leaving he whispered in my ear, “Darling please don’t drink too much. I worry about you, be good”.

I cried as soon as I got outside the door, but straightened up by the time I reached the pub.

Of course, I was never going to actually cheat, but I did need to get very drunk so it was more believable.

During the night, David texted me three times and it was hard not to just text him back because I knew he was worrying, but I had to remind myself, that was the point.

Seven drinks later, I stumbled home at 2am, which was highly unusual for me and found David asleep on the couch, obviously waiting for my arrival. He woke to my footsteps and ran straight over and hugged me.

“What happened, baby? I was so worried,” he said. That was my cue for the waterworks. I cried and cried, real tears and some fake ones too. “I’m so sorry David, but I cheated on you.”

Those words were the saddest but most freeing words I had ever said in my life. The next few days went in a blur. David moved out and barely spoke to me.

I didn’t regret my decision for the first few months, I just wished I didn’t have to use such a terrible lie. I have seen his family and friends around since and the looks they give me could kill.

Lately though, I do find myself missing him more and more. I think we could have really made it as a couple, if we had met later in life. I guess I will never know now because why would he want a cheating girlfriend back. I dug myself quite a hole.

Courtesy: Cosmo

Oh, when I met you I just knew That you would take my heart and run Until you told me how you felt for me You said I'm not the one So I slowly came to see All of the things that you were made of And now I hope my dreams and inspirations Lead me to want some real love [Chorus] I got to have a real love Loves so true and oh baby I thought your love was true I thought you were the answer to The questions in my mind But it seems that I was wrong If I stay strong maybe I'll find my real love So I try my best and pray to God He'll send me someone real To caress me and to guide me towards A love my heart can feel Now I know I can be faithful I can be your all in all I'll give you good lovin' through the summertime, Winter, spring, and fall

Love Poem

Gabor Timis

My Tears I feel the tears streaming down my cheeks.

My heart so broken and so very weak.

My mind confused, not knowing what to do.

It is so painful without you.

My tears flow so bitter and blue, My sad tears are all for …

*Send your love poems along with your name and number to ireto007@yahoo.com

Romantic Joke

Beware of what you say!!!

This is a great example of "did I say that out loud???

This happened at The University of Western Ontario last year. In a biology class, the professor was discussing the high glucose levels found in semen, which gives the sperm all the energy for their journey.

A female freshman raised her hand and asked, "If I understand you correctly, you're saying there is a lot of glucose, as in sugar, in semen?"

"That's correct," responded the professor, going on to add statistical info. Raising her hand again, she asked, "Then why doesn't it taste sweet?"

After a stunned silence, the whole class burst out laughing. The poor girl's face turned bright red, and as she realized exactly what she had inadvertently said (or rather implied), she picked up her books without a word and walked out of class, never to return.

However, as she was going out the door, the professor's reply was classic.

Totally straight-faced he answered her question. "It doesn't taste sweet because the taste buds for sweetness are on the tip of your tongue and not the back of your throat. Have a good day."

11 april 2015

Relationships & Love Advice

'My wife calls any number she sees on my phone' Dear Love Doctor, I am a married young man in my late thirties. I have this problem of having to see my wife frown each time I receive a phone call. My wife is always very anxious to find out who I was on the phone with, and if the person was a female you would see anger visible on her face. It got to a point where she would call any female number she saw stored on my phone, warning the person to stay away from her husband. That is after calling the person all sorts of names.

How do I handle this?

From Patrick Love Doctor’s Advice: Dear Patrick, Your wife appears to fall into the category of a jealous and possessive spouse or lover. She is apparently having feelings of insecurity and distrust in her marriage with you. She is afraid that you might be dating some other woman outside. She might have a good reason to suspect your activities. As a result, she does not trust your every move. This kind of situation is a time bomb waiting to explode. Jealous and possessive spouses constantly need assurance that they are loved and will always be loved. You need to constantly assure your wife of your love and care. Make her realize that your feelings for her will never go away and that you will never love another woman besides her. Again, stop doing anything that would make her suspect you or question your loyalty to her. Stop cheating, if you’re cheating on her. You need to build trust in your marriage by keeping away from women, as even the slightest trace of flirting on your part might cause a row with your wife. If your job brings you in contact with many females, try to make your wife understand so that she can put herself in your shoes and back down from her confrontational posture.

It is definitely wrong for your spouse to call any female number in your phone, warning the person to stay away from you.

Supposing the person is your business partner? Do you think

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

such a person would like to retain your services after what your wife has done? This kind of attitude can cause great embarrassment to you and push you emotionally further away from your wife. In the long run, such an unruly attitude from your wife would only help destroy your marriage rather than build on it. Make your wife understand that she is over-reacting and that her over-reaction will not help matters, but will only compound whatever problems already exist between both of you. She should employ dialogue with you in order to resolve issues. Communication is the key in marriage. Your wife ought to devote herself to doings things that please you, rather than things that displease you.

The fact is this: if a wife continues to shower her husband with love and care and do the things that make her man happy, it would be practically impossible for any other woman outside to snatch her husband. Your wife should wake up to her responsibilities as a good lover to you, instead of fighting people outside. That is because no matter how hard a wife fights, an unfaithful husband will always be unfaithful to her if he is not happy in the marriage. Self-examination would help both of you at this point.

The two of you ought to look inwards now. You should concentrate on building up your affair and spicing up your marriage. If you look inwards and spice up your marriage, the fear of insecurity will go away, at least to a large extent. Your wife should only be concerned about making you happy, and you too must always assure her of your constant love and loyalty in marriage and stop cheating on her, if you’re cheating. That way, both of you would rest assured of each other’s love and fidelity. Good luck! *Send your comments/stories to Love Doctor. E-mail: ireto007@yahoo.com. For free marriage/relationships counseling, call Love Doctor Mike 07031028714, 08131161840.

Visit lovedrmike.blogspot.com

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Odd News

Revealed, the terminally ill man set to undergo first full HEAD transplant

A

man with a fatal medical condition has spoken exclusively to MailOnline about how he is set to become the first person to undergo a head transplant and hopes it could be as soon as next year.

Valery Spiridonov says he is ready to put his trust in controversial surgeon Dr Sergio Canavero who claims he can cut off his head and attach it to a healthy body.

Mr Spiridonov, 30, a computer scientist from Russia, said: 'My decision is final and I do not plan to change my mind.'

As a lifelong sufferer of the rare genetic Werdnig-Hoffman muscle wasting disease, he says he wants the chance of a new body before he dies.

'Am I afraid? Yes, of course I am. But it is not just very scary, but also very interesting,' said Mr Spiridonov from his home in Vladimir, a city 120 miles east of Moscow.

'But you have to understand that I don't really have many choices', he said. 'If I don't try this chance my fate will be very sad. With every year my state is getting worse.'

Dr Canavero and Mr Spiridonov have talked via Skype though they have not met yet and the doctor has not reviewed his medical records.

The Italian told CNN he has received many email and letters from people seeking the procedure but he insists the first patients will be people suffering from a muscle wasting disease.

Dr Canavero has named the procedure HEAVEN, which is an acronym for head anastomosis venture. Anastomosis involves the surgical connecting of two parts.

He insists all the necessary techniques al-

ready exist to transplant a head onto a donor body.

The first monkey head transplant was performed 45 years ago and a basic operation on a mouse was carried out in China recently.

But critics say Dr Canavero's plans are 'pure fantasy'. The Italian has been compared to the fictional gothic-horror character Dr Frankenstein.

And Arthur Caplan, the director of medical ethics at New York University's Langone Medical Centre, has described Dr Canavero as 'nuts'.

Dr Hunt Batjer, president elect of the American Association for Neurological Surgeons, told CNN: 'I would not wish this on anyone. I would not allow anyone to do it to me as there are a lot of things worse than death.'

The cost of the 36-hour operation, which could only be performed in the one of the continued on page 38

36

Love&Living

True Story

M

y husband Eric is amazing. He is very organised, healthy, thoughtful, sensible with money and very handsome. He ticks all the boxes.

We met through a dating site and clicked on the very first date. I have a good job and also earn good money, but at the beginning of our relationship I was not very sensible with my money and overspent regularly.

When I was single I didn't care as I only had myself to consider, but when I met Eric, I became ashamed of my spending habits and my ever mounting credit card debt. Worried I would lose him, I decided to keep my huge credit card debt a secret, but I did decide to change my habits.

I consolidated my credit cards into a personal loan and chopped them up, and started using debit cards instead. It was difficult to cut down my spending at first, but I soon found it to be a fun challenge. Once I stopped spending and thought about just how much money I wasted each week on lunches, coffees and gossip magazines alone, I was horrified!

I felt very proud of myself, and for the first time in many years I was starting to save money. Things were going well with Eric and we decided to open a joint account to save for a house. With Eric as my motivator, there simply was no option to withdraw money or skip instalments. It felt great.

As we were rapidly coming close to approaching a bank regarding a

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 april 2015

I sold my engagement ring to pay my secret debt

loan I knew my secret would soon be out. There was no way I could pay off my large personal loan in time without Eric finding out.

I began to panic and would wake up at night, wondering for hours on end what I was going to do. I knew Eric would have been disgusted in me for lying to him for so long and that

Revealed, the terminally ill man set to undergo first full HEAD transplant c o n t i n u ed f r o m pa g e 3 7

world's most advanced operating theatres, has been estimated at £7.5million.

The new body would come from a transplant donor who is brain dead but otherwise healthy.

Both donor and patient would have their head severed from their spinal cord at the same time, using an ultrasharp blade to give a clean cut.

The patient's head would then be placed onto the donor's body and attached using what Canavero calls his 'magic ingredient' - a glue-like substance called polyethylene glycol - to fuse the two ends of the spinal cord together.

The muscles and blood supply would be stitched up, before the patient is put into a coma for four weeks to stop them from moving while the head and body heal together.

When they wake the patient should be able to move, feel their face and even speak with the same voice.

Powerful immunosuppressant drugs should stop the new body from being rejected.

Critics say Dr. Canavero has simplified the difficulties involved in reattaching a spinal cord.

The Italian doctor has also so far failed to secure funding for the staff of 150 doctors and nurses he believes are required to complete the procedure.

I would not wish this on anyone.

I would not allow anyone to do it to me as there are a lot of things worse than death. Dr. Hunt Batjer However, the Italian is confident he can successfully transplant a head on to another body.

And if successful, his pioneering procedure could give new hope to thousands of paralysed and disabled people.

he would end our relationship. I just couldn't risk losing him.

After weeks of thinking I finally worked up the courage to come clean.

We were at home sharing a lovely dinner discussing our plans to buy a house when Eric surprised me and proposed. He popped the question with a beautiful BIG diamond ring.

I was shocked and of course said yes, but in the back of my mind, panic was rising in me as I remembered what I was about to confess.

The next week as I gazed at my beautiful ring, I formed a plan. After work I raced into a shop that specialised in good quality, but fake jewellery and I had my ring replicated. I sold my beautiful, expensive ring and started wearing the fake one instead.

Eric never noticed the difference.

With the money I got from the sale of my real engagement ring plus some money that I borrowed from my brother, I was able to pay off my loan and Eric has never found out.

We have been married for four years now and I still get regular compliments on my beautiful, but fake, diamond ring. I hate what I did and feel so guilty, but I know it was for the best. I also know I will never allow myself to get into credit card debt ever again.

Mr. Spiridonov was diagnosed with the rare muscle-wasting condition, Werdnig-Hoffman disease, at the age of one. Tragically the disease progresses every day.

He told MailOnline: 'I can hardly control my body now. I need help every day, every minute. I am now 30 years old, although people rarely live to more than 20 with this disease.'

He continued: 'My muscles stopped any development in childhood. Because of this, they do not grow and the skeleton gets deformed. The back muscles cannot support the skeleton.'

With his condition worsening each day, Mr Spiridonov is desperate for the technique to work. He told MailOnline: 'If you want something to be done, you need to participate in it.

'I do understand the risks of such surgery. They are multiple. We can't even imagine what exactly can go wrong. I'm afraid that I wouldn't live long enough to see it happen to someone else.'

He said his family fully support his decision to be the first human to undergo such surgery.

Mr. Spiridonov added: 'What's more, there's already a lot of effort invested in this idea and that's why it's too late to back out.

'I came up with this idea quite some time ago. I read many scientific articles on this topic.

'The idea to transplant not only organs but the head has been studied for a long time even by Russian specialists. But an actual transplantation of the human head was never conducted.'

Mr Spiridonov contacted the controversial doctor, who is based at the University of Turin in Italy, after reading about his ambitious medical claims.

Courtesy: nine.com

Wedding Traditions

Painting the hands and feet of the bride: India

I

ndian weddings are traditionally multiday affairs, and involve many intricate ceremonies, such as the painting of the hands and feet of the bride called a mehndi. Garlands are presented to guests of honor instead of corsages, and lots of flower or rose petals are thrown for good luck.

The wedding is typically divided into three parts: pre-wedding, main, and postwedding. The pre-wedding includes all the preparations and a party the night before where each side of the family can meet each other and dance and have fun.

A Pandit, who has selected the day of the wedding based on the bride and groom’s horoscopes, conducts a prayer with family members to provide the couple with a happily married life.

Courtesy: Irish Central

Love Education

What is Sexually Transmitted Disease?

S

exually transmitted diseases (STD), also referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STI) and venereal diseases (VD), are illnesses that have a significant probability of transmission between humans by means of human sexual behavior, includingvaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex. While in the past, these illnesses have mostly been referred to as STDs or VD, in recent years the term sexually transmitted infections(STIs) has been preferred, as it has a broader range of meaning; a person may beinfected, and may potentially infect others, without having a disease. Some STIs can also be transmitted via the use of IV drug needles after its use by an infected person, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding. Sexually transmitted infections have been well known for hundreds of years, and venereology is the branch of medicine that studies these diseases.

Classification Until the 1990s, STIs were commonly known as venereal diseases, the word venereal being derived from the Latin word venereus, and meaning relating to sexual intercourse or desire, ultimately derived from Venus, the Roman goddess of love.

Social disease was a phrase used as a euphemism.

Sexually transmitted infection is a broader term than sexually transmitted disease. An Infection is a colonization by a parasitic species, which may not cause any adverse effects. In a disease, the infection leads to impaired or abnormal function. In either case, the condition may not exhibit signs or symptoms. Increased understanding of infections like HPV, which infects most sexually active individuals but cause disease in only a few has led to increased use of the term STI. Public health officials originally introduced the termsexually transmitted infection, which clinicians are increasingly using alongside the termsexually transmitted disease in order to distinguish it from the former.

STD may refer only to infections that are causing diseases, or it may be used more loosely as a synonym for STI. Most of the time, people do not know that they are infected with an STI until they are tested or start showing symptoms of disease.

Moreover, the term sexually transmissible disease is sometimes used since it is less restrictive in consideration of other factors or means of transmission. For instance,meningitis is transmissible by means of sexual contact but is not labeled as an STI because sexual contact is not the primary vector for the pathogens that cause meningitis. This discrepancy is addressed by the probability of infection by means other than sexual contact.

In general, an STI is an infection that has a negligible probability of transmission by means other than sexual contact, but has a realistic means of transmission by sexual contact (more sophisticated means—blood transfusion, sharing of hypodermic needles— are not taken into account). Thus, one may presume that, if a person is infected with an STI, e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, it was transmitted to him/her by means of sexual contact.

Source: en.wikipedia.org.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

37

Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

Pwajok, Lalong test might on the Plateau Musa Pam

A Jos

s Nigerians go to the poll for another round of elections today, Plateau State is set to be a battle royale between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its challenger, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

No doubt, the PDP is the ruling party on the Plateau at the moment and it is the party to beat, but again, the APC is not relenting in its effort to upstage it from the corridors of power as it is poised to give the ruling party a good fight in today’s elections.

The ruling PDP is fielding Senator Gyang Pwajok as its standard bearer while the APC has former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Simon Lalong, as its candidate. These two are, incidentally, alumni of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Lalong is a lawyer while Pwajok is a political scientist.

Both of them are also alumni of the defunct School of Preliminary Studies, Keffi.

Pwajok flaunts “Greater Together”, a slogan political pundits say “evolved into a movement for unity and positive change and the pivot for generational shift and progress of Plateau State.”

GNS, as Pwajok is popularly called, has an intimidating resume.

He earned a Master of Science Degree in Political Economy and Development Studies in 1991 at the age of 24 from the University of Jos. He was a teacher at Zang Secondary Commercial School, Bukuru; Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin-Ladi and the University of Jos where he taught Public Enterprise Management.

Governor Jang appointed him Director General, Political, Research and Planning in 2007. He actively participated and served as Secretary of the Transition Committee that produced the four-year Strategic Development Plan of the Jonah Jang administration shortly after its inauguration in 2007.

Under the tutelage of Governor Jang, the PDP candidate has continued to gain public recognition as a loyal, humble, supporter and advocate of the Jang vision which is anchored on bringing about a new Plateau State in the hands of God and a people working together patiently towards responding to the development challenge of building a new era of progress.

Pwajok is the man to beat in the election. He has the mien, comportment and a youthful energy to give his opponents a tough fight. Apart from this, he has the strong support of the incumbent governor of the state who has already anointed him to be his successor.

However, he may not find the contest easy because his emergence as the standard bearer of the ruling party did not go down well with some top echelons of the party and have decided to look another way, to get back at Jang.

Pwajok

Pwajok’s stronghold is the Northern Senatorial Zone of the state. He may not be too accepted in the other two zones, especially the Southern zone that is feeling short-changed after the ‘gentleman agreement of rotation and zoning’ was not obeyed. If truth be told, he is more popular among the youth population in the state, and has the resources to execute this project.

For Lalong, the APC candidate, he resonates the slogan “Change and allinclusive governance” as his selling point. He holds a Master's Degree in Law (LLM) from the famous University of Jos, having earlier studied Law in Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and later called to bar after the compulsory Nigeria Law School in Lagos. He also presided over as the Speaker of the state House of Assembly and was elected two times to represent his people of Shendam Constituency in the state House of Assembly in1999 and 2003.

However, Saturday Telegraph learnt that the deputy governor, Mr Ignatius Longjan, Senator Joshua Dariye, Gen. Jeremiah Useni and former Minister of Industries, Fidelis Tapgun, among others, secretly resolved with top politicians across the 17 local government areas of the state, to forge an alliance against the PDP by canvassing votes for the APC candidates for the two elections.

Investigations revealed that Dariye and Useni, who were elected on the platform of the PDP have, directed their supporters to defect formally to the APC to bring government closer to the people at the grass roots.

Meanwhile, the governorship candidates of the Labour Party (LP), Ambassador Bagudu Hirse and that of the MEGA Party, Mrs. Elizabeth Samson

Lalong

Yirse, officially defected to the APC to support Lalong for the governorship and state House of Assembly elections.

The opposition parties alleged that Hirse is sponsored by Jang, an allegation Hirse has since denied, describing it as baseless and a calculated attempt to scuttle his desire and ambition to rule the state.

Reacting to the development, the Executive Assistant to the the state governor, Clinton Garuba, said the APC has no stronghold in the state, saying, “their gang up with other opposition parties will fail.

As the gang up against the candidature of Pwajok before the elections mounts, Governor Jang urged all candidates contesting the election in the state to emulate President Goodluck Jonathan's example by exercising the spirit of sportsmanship even in defeat irrespective of personal ambition for the good of the state.

The governor, who spoke through the Director-General of the Campaign Organisation, Mr. Moses Nathaniel, urged aggrieved politicians to take legal action to address their grievances so that the fragile peace in the state is not compromised.

However, a group under the name Socio-Political and Development Organisation, said that the PDP governorship candidate, Pwajok, stands a better chance to win today's gubernatorial election.

A statement signed by the group’s leader, Mr. Yahaya Joshua, described Pwajok as someone with exposure in politics and policy and understanding state’s contemporary challenges.

Saturday Telegraph learnt that the PDP strongholds in the election is Jos North LGA, where the PDP governorship candidate hails from and which

also has Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, and other non-indegene communities.

In these areas, Pwajok is the preferred candidate.

Other local government areas where the PDP is sure of winning in both the governorship and state Assembly elections include Barkin Ladi, Jos South, Riyom and Bassa LGC's from the Northern zones.

In the Central zone where Senator Dariye and Pwajok’s running mate, Yilji Gomwalk, comes from, the battle will be fierce between both parties but the PDP will have upper hand in places like Bokkos, Panshin, Kanke and Kanam.

In the Southern zone where the APC candidate comes from, information has it that the PDP may likely win Quapan, Mikang and Langtang South local governments respectively. With this assumption ,many PDP supporters in the state are having hope of defeating the APC during the elections.

But report showed that after the Presidential and National Assembly elections in the state the APC and other parties in the state have ganged up against the PDP government in the state. Already many groups from the southern zone are working hard especially the stakeholders to defeat Pwajok in order to shame Governor Jang.

Among the local government areas that have embraced the APC are Shendam where the APC candidate, Lalong, hails from. Mangu where Lalong’s running mate, Professor Sonny Tyoden, hails from is up for grabs for the APC. There are also indications that Wase, Langtang North and Kanam might also get the strong backing of the APC As it is, the odds still favourthe PDP.

38

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

Umahi, PDP dominate Ebonyi

G

overnorship election in Ebonyi State used to be one-party affairs in the past. But the game has changed, this time around, with four contenders: Senator Julius Ali Ucha of the All Progressives Congress (APC); Senator Anthony Agbo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Chief Edward Nkwegu of Labour Party (LP) and Chief Dave Umahi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are battling to succeed Governor Martin Elechi , come May 29.

Apart from the four major parties that are participating in the governorship election, the SDP, ACPN and UPP also fielded candidates for the poll.

Dave Umahi (PDP) The state Deputy Governor and PDP standard bearer, Umahi, remains a candidate to beat. He is from Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area and was the former chairman of the party in the state.

Umahi is a grass roots politician.

He was instrumental to the re-election of Elechi in 2011, when he was picked by the governor as his running mate and both of them have been having cordial relationship until he declared his intention to succeed the governor.

The relationship between the two got more sour during the PDP primaries conducted last year which the deputy governor’s faction held sway, producing all the candidates of the party for the general elections.

Strength: Umahi has so many things working for him. He has the support of the Presidency even though such support may have petered out following the defeat of President Jonathan by Buhari during the presidential election.

He also has the support of the national secretariat of the party and many stakeholders of the state, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim; former governor Sam Egwu, Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu; the Minister of State for Health, Fidelis Nwankwo, who is the Director General of his Campaign Organisation, the Divine Mandate; Senator Emmanuel Onwe; former deputy governor of the state, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, and Senator Nguji Ngele. All these personalities command followership in the state and campaigned for him.

The much-talked about charter of equity in the state is an edge Umahi has over all his rivals. This is because the north and central have produced governors of the state, leaving only the South where Umahi comes from.

Umahi is seen as a ‘fighter’ and he demonstrated this during the PDP primaries by emerging the candidate of the party even as Governor Elechi, fronted former Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, to succeed him.

He was able to contend Elechi, even as a sitting governor and hijacked the party structures when the governor failed to honour the alleged gentlema’s agreement they reached for Umahi to succeed him.

Sweeping three senatorial and six House of Representatives seats in the state by the PDP has undoubtedly boosted Umahi’s chances. PDP has structures across the state.

Under a free and fair poll, the PDP should win most of the House of Assembly seats.

Weakness: The defeat of President Jonathan by Buhari during the presidential election is a challenge facing the PDP for the governorship election. Since the announcement of the result of the presidential election, the morale of the members and supporters of the PDP in the state has

The governorship election in Ebonyi State promises to be interesting and will be keenly-contested among the four major political parties in the state. UCHENNA INYA reports

Umahi

Ucha

Agbo

Nkwegu

taken a real battering.

Julius Ali Ucha (APC) Ucha hails from Ezzagu community in Ishielu Local Government Area. He was the pioneer speaker of the Ebonyi state House of Assembly and was elected the senator representing Ebonyi Central Senatorial zone in 2003, a position he occupied till 2011.

The APC standard bearer contested the 2011 governorship election under the defunct ANPP and lost to Governor Elechi. He won in two out of the 13 local government areas of the state; Ezza North and South and proceeded to the court to challenge the outcome of that election.

Since then, Ucha disappeared from political circle until this year’s general elections when he declared his intension to contest the election.

Strength: The victory of General Muhammadu Buhari during the March 28 presidential election has ‘resurrected’ the APC in the state.

Political analysts wrote the party off in the state governorship election because of the structure of the party and the candidates’ selection. But immediately Buhari was declared the winner by INEC, the party came to limelight and Ucha who was widely believe by political watchers as a pretender suddenly became a ‘beautiful bride’.

APC may win some House of Assem-

bly seats, especially in Ezza North and some parts of Ishielu where it is more popular.

Weakness: Despite the victory of its presidential candidate, there is serious division in the APC which has forced some chieftains out of the party. These chieftains have already pitched tent with the PDP and LP. The division in the party was as a result of the party congress and the party primaries which Ucha was elected as the party’s standard bearer for the governorship election.

Anthony Agbo (APGA) Agbo was a former speaker in the old Enugu State House of Assembly. He was also a former senator. He is from Ebonyi North, precisely Ohaukwu LGA. He was former Commissioner for finance and works during Egwu’s administration.

Agbo was one of the founding members of PDP. He defected to the APGA last year to contest the governorship election.

Strength: Agbo is believed to be a grass roots politician. The platform he is running for the election which is seen as Igbo party is an added advantage on his aspiration. For running issue-based campaign and his philanthropic gesture for the down trodden, Agbo may pull surprise in the governorship election.

Weakness: APGA in the state has no structure, no political bigwigs like that of the PDP, LP and APC and it remains

one of the biggest challenges the party is facing in the general election. Agbo is facing the challenge of zoning just like Ucha of the APC. The North zone where he comes from has governed for eight years.

Not only is he from Ebonyi North zone, he is also from Ohaukwu Local Government that occupied the seat for Ebonyi North when Egwu was on the saddle.

Edward Nkwegu (LP) Nkwegu is from Izzi Local Government Area in the North Senatorial zone.

He is an Architect who has handled many contracts for the state government.

He is a multi-billionaire and is the CEO of Edon conglomerate. He is also a philanthropist.

Politically, he was not known and has never occupied any political position either locally or nationally though he is popular, especially in Izzi clan where he hails from. He has been nursing the governorship ambition until Elechi called the stakeholders of the Izzi clan and asked them to shelve their interest in the governorship race to enable power to shift to the South in the interest of justice and equity.

Edon, as he is widely called by friends and associates, agreed but suddenly resurrected his ambition when Chukwu ,who was anointed by Governor Elechi to succeed him, lost out at the PDP primaries.

Because Chukwu could not sail through the primaries, Nkwegu was picked as the LP guber candidate in protest of the PDP primaries in which the governor lost the party structure to his deputy, Umahi, and moved his loyalists to the LP. Strength: Nkwegu has the government machinery at his disposal, the 13 Caretaker Committee Chairmen and 64 Development Centre Coordinators who hold the grass roots are all in Labour Party.

He has the support of the majority of Izzi clan where he hails from though all the political stakeholders of the area are in PDP. A typical Izzi man believes that it is time for his area to produce the next governor of the state despite the charter of equity said to have been agreed upon by the founding fathers.

Governor Elechi’s support for Nkwegu may be an added advantage to his aspiration. Since he joined the race, the state government has been funding his campaign.

In a free and fair election, the Labour Party will win some House of Assembly seats especially in Abakaliki, Izzi, Ebonyi LGAs and some in Ebonyi South and Central zones where it is most popular.

Weakness: Nkwegu is relatively new in politics. He has not held any political position in the past unlike the other contenders and this may affect his chances.

His party, the LP, is also new in the state and was formed after the PDP primaries and two months to the general elections.

The outcome of the National Assembly election in the state in which the PDP was declared winner of all the three senatorial positions and six House of Representatives seats has affected the morale of the LP supporters in the state.

Most of stakeholders of Izzi clan like the Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Chief Elias Mbam; Minister of State for Health, Chief Fide Nwankwo; former Minister of State for Power and Steel, Chief Goddy Ogbaga and others are not supporting the Labour Party.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

39

Nigeria

Shettima

Shettima favoured in Borno

G

overnor Kashim Shettima of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will today confront Alhaji Gambo Lawan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in his re-election bid for the Borno State governorship poll.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) approved the participation of 13 governorship candidates in today’s election in the state. The candidates, apart from Shettima and Lawan, are Habu Sakwa of Citizen Popular Party (CPP), Ajiya Bukar Auno of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Babagana Musa of Progressives Peoples Alliance (PPA) and Ahmad Kasim Amin of People for Democratic Change (PDC).

Others are Hon. Umar Kumshe (KOWA), Ahmad Bulam of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Abba Modu of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Samuel Waziri of Accord Party (AP), Alhaji Rufai Monguno of Independent Democrats (ID), Babagana Bakomi of Labour Party (LP) and Saleh Goya Abubakar of Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN).

But eight of the governorship candidates on Thursday withdrew from the race and endorsed Shettima. 17 PDP House of assembly candidates also pulled out of the race to support the APC. Governorship candidates of ACP, CPP, APGA, PDC, PPA, ACPN, SDP, LP and Accord all stepped down for Shettima.

Despite the array of candidates in the gubernatorial race, the battle for the Government House has been narrowed to the APC and the PDP, which are the strongest parties in the state. Political analysts believe that other political parties are just in the race for the sake of participating in the election because most of them are not on the ground in Borno; they only exist on paper.

AHMED MIRINGA reports that Governor Kashim Shettima looks set to be re-elected today in Borno State Governor Shettima and Lawan are the major contenders in today’s governorship election.

Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in May 29, 1999, Borno State has never been governed by the party at the centre. The opposition party has always been producing governors of the state.

With the outcome of last month’s presidential election, political observers are of the view that two options are open to the people of the state in today’s governorship election: it is either to break the jinx of being in opposition to the centre or continue the 16-year-trend.

The state is one of the northern states where the APC got block votes during the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections, and therefore, there is a strong perception that the emergence of General Muhammadu Buhari as the President-elect will be of great advantage to Shettima’s re-election bid. The APC won all the seats available in the state.

The incumbency factor will also count in favour of the governor.

Some schools of thought are also of the view that the APC governorship candidate will enjoy the support of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the state, who are largely victims of Boko Haram insurgency in the state. The IDPs camps, established and run by the state government, may influence the decision of the people who are taking refuge in the state capital to re-elect the governor today.

It is also believed that the alleged link of the state former governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, to Boko Haram insurgency

and the removal of his candidate, Alhaji Mohammed Imam as the PDP governorship candidate will make it easier for Governor Shettima to sweep the poll.

In spite of the factors in favour of the governor, some people are of the view that Shettima’s style of leadership may affect his chances. Many people have accused Governor Shettima of running a government of family and friends. He has also been alleged of marginalising the people of Southern Borno.

Shettima was born on September 2, 1966, in Maiduguri, state capital. He attended Government Community Secondary School, Biu and Government Science Secondary School, Potiskum, Yobe State.

He graduated in Agricultural Economics from the University of Maiduguri in 1989.

He did his master’s at the University of Ibadan in 1991 in the same field.

Shettima left the banking sector as general manager to take up appointment as Commissioner in the ministries of Finance and Economic Development, Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Education, Agriculture and Health in the Sheriff administration. He was elected governor in 2011 on the platform of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP).

Lawan, the PDP candidate, was a one time chairman of the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and former National Chairman of the defunct Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM). His political experience and connection may likely work for him. The PDP may be an alternative for those who do not want to vote for Governor Shettima.

However, his late replacement by the

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) few days to the election will affect his chances. His replacement with Alhaji Imam, the preferred candidate of Senator Sherriff is a minus for the PDP candidate as he may not likely enjoy the support of the former governor, who is one of the leaders and financiers of the PDP in the state.

The defeat of President Goodluck Jonathan in last presidential election will also affect Lawan and other PDP candidates’ chances in today’s election. The Borno PDP may not likely get the full support of the president, having failed to deliver the state to him during the March 28 presidential election.

Without any iota of doubt, the victory of the APC in the last month presidential and National Assembly elections will be of great advantage to Governor Shettima and all the APC House of Assembly candidates in today’s elections Almost all the APC candidates in the state House of Assembly are seeking reelection and they may likely get re-elected today. The two members of the House of Assembly, whose chances of victory in today’s state assembly elections in the state are very slim, are Damboa Alhaji Ayamu Gosha and Idrisa Jidda of Ngala State constituency, who defected to the PDP along with Sherrif.

All APC House of Assembly candidates may likely win their position, as incumbency, voting in IDP camps and Buhari factors will be an added advantage for them. The failure of the PDP-led government to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency will affect the party’s chances in the state.

The dominance of the APC as the ruling party in the state and influence of the state government over the IDPs is a clean chance for all the APC candidates.

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A

fter months of marketing themselves and their manifestoes; months of campaigns and rallies; confrontations and intrigues, poaching and horsetrading; the time has finally come for Imo State governorship candidates to indeed put their popularity to a test.

In the case of the House of Assembly elections that would hold simultaneously, Imo has a pattern since 1999; the party that eventually produces the winning governorship candidate also produces the winning House of Assembly candidates.

Hence, the chances of the governorship candidates often reflect the chances of their House of Assembly candidates.

In all, the credentials of the governorship give a clear insight into the expected outcome of the election. Incidentally, the crowd of governorship contestants have since thinned down to a few frontrunners, who are believed to hold the brightest prospect in the Imo governorship poll Emeka Ihedioha Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives is the governorship candidate of what until a fortnight ago, used to be the strongest political platform in Nigeria since 1999, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Ihedioha is one of the few thirdterm members of House of Representatives. Winning three successive federal constituency elections cannot entirely be by chance. It either signposts a measure of ingenuity or a clear case of political dexterity in the electioneering process.

A strong party man, Ihedioha could not have attained his present political height without a viable political structure built advertently or inadvertently over the years. He has to his advantage over the years instituted structures to empower members of his federal constituency and had sustained and spread same long before voicing his desire to govern Imo State. He has leveraged on his position to impact his constituency with various developmental projects that have been completed with several others under construction.

Ihedioha has run a robust campaign and engaged the incumbent on all fronts.

He has shown depth in the knowledge of the core needs of Imo State and the basic modalities that should be put in place to ‘reclaim Imo.’ Ihedioha comes from the very populous Mbaise axis of Owerri zone, an area known over the years as his strongest fort.

The Mbaise nation is known for casting the largest bulk of votes for any of its choice candidates.

The Deputy Speaker’s biggest challenge has been how to rally some aggrieved leaders of the PDP to close ranks and work together with him. In this area, he has made remarkable progress placating angry leaders and stakeholders.

Though, Ikedi Ohakim and Senator Ifeanyi Araraume have suits in court against the candidature of Ihedioha, both have maintained their support and mobilisation for the PDP in Imo State, in spite of rumours of defection. Also, Senator Hope Uzodinma, who defied the influence of the incumbent in his Orlu enclave to win the Senate election landslide in the 12 local governments of Imo West, has also thrown his weight behind the PDP and its candidate in today’s governorship polls.

He maintains that losing the presidential election does not in any way translate to losing a state election.

That notwithstanding, Ihedioha’s chances in the April 11 governorship election would be largely threatened if the PDP family goes into the election without putting their house in order, after the several defections from their party to the APC following the victory of APC at the presidential poll. As a matter of fact, if the PDP had won the presidential election, Ihedioha may only have needed to just

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

Imo: The final test of supremacy Today’s governorship battle in Imo State is being fought by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC) and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), writes STEVE UZOECHI in Owerri.

Okorocha

go through the motions to win his election but the odds have changed and clearly not in favour of the PDP. Most of the PDP stakeholders who have gotten used to being politically pampered from the centre have little or no fight left in them. They quickly jumped ship. While there are those that need stirring back to speed, there are also those who at the core of their being, still believe in the PDP brand.

Ihedioha is also grappling with the fact that of all the candidates – frontline and fringe contenders – running for the governorship seat, about 95 per cent are from Imo East (Owerri zone) with nine council areas while Okorocha is the only candidate from Imo West (Orlu zone) with 12 council areas. Efforts and parleys by leaders from Imo East to streamline their bid for Douglas House and present one formidable candidate for the race has repeatedly ended in deadlocks.

Be that as it may, Ihedioha is a force to reckon with in the Imo governorship election. He remains a frontline contender and about the biggest threat to the re-election of the incumbent.

Rochas Okorocha Okorocha as the incumbent governor of Imo State enjoys a good measure of support from quite a great portion of the Imo public but has largely lost the Imo upper class who though, a minority, still dictate politics and business in the state.

Long term strategic planning may not be Okorocha’s strongest point but he has been able to put some landmark structures in place - whether qualitative or not; people-oriented or not; purpose-driven or egodriven; futuristic or impulsive – there are some new infrastructures in place in Imo that people can point to Okorocha’s credit.

Much as some extol the governor for this, very many others would easily accuse the governor of indiscriminately erecting structures that bear little or no relevance to the welfare of the people. In spite of these, Okorocha still has an imposing influence

Ihedioha

on the politics of the state and the opposition indeed takes the governor’s re-election bid very seriously.

Okorocha is a daring politician with a heart large enough for adventure. He understands the intricacies and manoeuvrings of the electioneering process. A dominating personality with immense oratorical power, the easiest way to lose an election to Okorocha is to take him for granted. He understands street life and ordinary people and is adept at weaving compelling political sentiments to his favour.

Recent political development in Nigeria has seen Okorocha’s support base increasing by the day in Imo. Some PDP stalwarts who would have been assumed the last people that would baulk in the face of the APC victory at the presidential poll, have recently defected in a haste to the APC swelling Okorocha’s ranks. For those who had been seating on the fence, Major-General (rtd) Muhammadu Buhari’s victory tilted the balance for them, forcing them into the APC in Imo State. More than two dozen members of the PDP have since cross the carpet to boost Okorocha’s chances of retaining his seat after today.

Furthermore, the APC in Imo may have lost the state during the Presidential election, but they won a psychological battle with the victory of the party at the centre to the extent that most of its loyalists in the state are approaching the governorship election reinvigorated, with bolstered morale. The psychological intimidation was further sustained by the APC with the visit of the President-elect to the state on Tuesday to send home the new mantra of the state governor, which is basically on the need to vote APC into power at the state level and so as to be in the same page with the party at the centre.

How much people are buying into this ideology remains to be seen. Though there has been a seeming silence over

this, one of the things that may work against Okorocha in today election is the zoning question in the state, popularly referred to as the Imo Charter of Equity.

In 2011, Okorocha demolished the perceived zoning arrangement in the state by emerging governor so soon after his kinsman, Chief Achike Udenwa, had served as governor of the state for eight years. Both Okorocha and Udenwa are from the Orlu zone of the state, while the Owerri zone is yet to get a shot at the governorship seat of Imo since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.

With Okigwe zone also kicking that they are yet to have a full share, zoning will definitely be an issue in the 2015 governorship election in Imo. Though the governor has tried severally to dismiss zoning as fostering mediocrity, it definitely remains one of Okorocha’s major disadvantages in the governorship election.

Whatever is the case, Governor Okorocha is the man to beat and it will take immense effort in strategic planning, coordinated sensitisation of communities and mobilisation of qualitative human and material resources to oust him. Okorocha has since initiated an aggressive outreach to a cross-section of Imo residents including members of the opposition, artisans, clerics, business owners, political elites and anybody or group that wields any form of influence over people. Consequently, the reality on ground leaves no one in doubt that the Ogboko-born politician is running to win.

Emmanuel Iheanacho Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho in an ideal society is the epitome of what a governorship candidate should be.

Not a few people have averred that the quality of the candidature of Iheanacho and his deputy, Ike Ibe, may be yet unsurpassed since 1999.

Iheanacho may not be a regular politician but the human face he brought to politics has gained him large space and followership in the Imo political landscape. For him, credibility and competence is everything. He maintains that Imo is so blessed with qualitative human resources to be ruled by what he described as ‘emergency governors’.

Iheanacho insists governance should move from winning an election, proliferating arbitrary structures to evolving qualitative policies that will endure beyond the lifespan of an administration to impacting the society for posterity.

The shipping magnate is clear-sighted on his vision and leadership trajectory for Imo. A vast majority of the Imo electorate perceive him as sincere and committed to the rejuvenation of Imo across all sectors as he has promised.

Iheanacho is readily remembered for his brief stint in the federal cabinet as Minister for Interior. He did not miss the opportunity provided by his appointment to impact the state with his goodwill and qualitative character.

Iheanacho’s major challenge as the candidate of APGA had been the distraction posed by one of the rivals at the party primaries level, Chief Okey Ezeh, who is kicking at an Iheanacho candidature with everything he has.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Orji

41

Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

Udensi

Ikpeazu

Abia: Orji’s performance dents PDP’s chance

T

he tension and anxiety generated by today’s governorship and House of Assembly elections is understandable. On the part of government there is fear and apprehension that if the pattern of the March 28 voting is repeated the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) might be on its way out.

Since the Presidential and National Assembly polls on March 28, protests have trailed the result of the elections.

The allegation of complicity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and security agencies to aid the PDP candidates rig the election has not been refuted.

For the first time in the history of Abia State, people came out openly against the ruling party and its candidates.

Till today, people have not stopped wondering how the PDP candidates including Governor Theodore A. Orji, was declared the winner when they voted overwhelmingly against the PDP. In Aba federal constituency, for instance, the people’s will expressed itself in the victory of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate against Hon. Uzor Azubuike of the PDP. That was the pattern all over the state. The INEC officials and security agencies could not intimidate Aba electorate, so the true result was declared and no one has contested it.

Though there may be little known candidates for today’s governorship election in the state, the race is clearly for the candidates of APGA, Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), All Progressives Congress (APC) and PDP. The candidate of APGA, Dr. Alex Otti, is the most favoured of all the candidates and the voting pattern already seen in the presidential and National Assembly elections confirm this.

The hatred and disenchantment of the people with the PDP is un-

Today’s governorship election is being hotly contested by four candidates.

But findings by IGBEAKU ORJI indicates that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may find it difficult to survive given the poor performance of the incumbent governor, Theodore A. Orji.

precedented. Even in the governor’s polling booth and others in his community, he lost the election there. The embarrassing loss has been interpreted by many as the reason for the removal of the four local government transition chairmen where the loss was most pronounced.

Otti, the former managing director of Diamond Bank, has garnered sufficient goodwill to endear him to the people. And because of his coming to the APGA, the party was seen as a credible alternative to the ruling PDP. Otti hails from Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

The PPA governorship candidate, Sir Chikwe Udensi, was, prior to his foray to mainstream party politics, the secretary of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).

Before coming to PPA as its governorship candidate, he had a brief stint at the APGA. He hails from Arochukwu in Abia North Senatorial District. He has pursed his campaign with passion and is particularly irked by the “mismanagement of the state by the PDP.” He depends on the vast PPA and Reality Organisation structure that held sway in the days of the former governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, and the same structure that delivered incumbent governor in 2007 before the estrangement with his benefactor.

The APC candidate, Chief Chinenye Nyerere Anyim, is by all means the most humane and accessible of them all. He hails from Obingwa Local Government Area in Abia South

senatorial zone. He seems to be more tactical in his campaigns. Beneath his massive exterior is a calm and unruffled mien. He hardly betrays any emotion but always composed.

The result of the Presidential election in which the APC candidate, Major-General (rtd) Muhammadu Buhari, won has boosted his chances.

Though, the APC as a party has not been popular in the state, being relatively new. Nyerere has, nonetheless, become the cynosure of eyes, overnight. Politicians are jumping over to the APC in droves.

Their stakeholders’ meeting last week in Umuahia was attended by the former deputy governor of the state, Comrade Chris Akomas; former PPA national chairman, Chief Sam Nkire; newspaper columnist, Ralph Egbu; the former governorship candidate of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state in 2011, Paul Ikonne. Also, some of the political parties including the NDP were led by its state chairman to the meeting for possible discussion on alliance.

The PDP governorship candidate, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has the advantage of the incumbent governor behind him. But that is all and if the wishes of the people are respected he may not survive the combined onslaught against him and his party. The people appear to be fed up with the PDP perceived culture of impunity, recklessness and corruption. With what the people have seen in the last 16 years, it is difficult to convince them that an-

other candidate of the party would be any different.

People have openly questioned the result of the National Assembly posted by the INEC, which they insist was the reverse of the pattern of voting. It is likely that the people may harbour no ill will against Ikpeazu as a person but he may be suffering because of his identification with the governor, who is seen by many as greedy for power.

The choice positions are reserved for himself even after eight years as governor, his son and candidates.

Besides, the people have complained loudly that in the last eight years, they have hardly seen any government presence in their localities. He was under the delusion that the projects he cited in Umuahia will endear him to the people but he was shocked beyond words that he lost the National Assembly election in his own community.

Again, Orji thought that the people will remain blind to the reality of the brigandage of eight years just because he flew the kite of being in bondage.

Already, the governor and his candidates, have seen the handwriting on the wall just as it was in the days of Biblical Nebuchadnezzar ’s son and successor, Belshazzar, who was weighed in the balances and found wanting. For this, the governor and his camp are desperate now more than ever before to win because so many factors are at stake but even if fraud and malpractices abound, it will not be long before the truth will prevail.

The reason for the governor’s travail is not far-fetched. The people were worried that a seemingly heartless and insensitive government that owed workers several months’ salaries, will, like a dangerous snake, reproduce its kind.

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Jigawa: Buhari’s victory alters calculation

There is no doubt that the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faces an uphill task, retaining the Jigawa governorship seat in today’s election as the wind of change occasioned by the All Progressives Congress (APC) victory in the presidential election has altered the political calculation in the state. DAHIRU SULEIMAN reports

T

he political experience of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in Jigawa State, Mallam Aminu Ringim, dates back to 1978, when he was appointed by the administration of Governor Ali Saad as Commissioner for Agriculture.

Thereafter, he became the Executive Chairman, Jigawa State Independent Electoral Commission during the administration of former Governor Saminu Turaki. He was later elevated by the same government to the status of Chief of Staff to the governor, a position he retained in the present administration of Governor Sule Lamido for eight years.

Given this experience in politics and governance, Ringim believes he has all it takes to defeat his main opponent in today's governorship election, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

To Ringim, victory at the poll would be nothing short of continuity of Lamido-led PDP administration in the state. “If given the mandate, we assure you we will do our best in forging our younger state to progress and development devoid of any prejudice," he said.

He also assured of unflinching loyalty to his boss (Governor Lamido), promising to involve him in state policies. While the PDP candidate is optimistic that his party will retain Jigawa for continuity, a fundamental factor that may thwart this noble cause is "the Buhari wind of change" which has altered the political calculation in the state.

This is made worse by the fact that Ringim lacks a strong political structure unlike Abubakar of the APC who is an astute politician with vast political experience.

Also, the exodus of PDP supporters in the state to the APC is another factor that may weaken Ringim’s chances at the poll.

Reports have it that over 5,000 PDP supporters led by former Governor Turaki; present Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ahmad Mahmud Gumel among other top government officials dumped the PDP for APC. On his part, the APC candidate, Abubakar, has pledged to transform Jigawa if elected. The immediate past National Chairman of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) is well connected and believes he has what it takes to take Jigawa State to a greater height if given the mandate.

Unlike Ringim, who is relatively new in politics, Abubakar’s political career started in 1978, and he has, since then held various positions in different political parties and associations, notably the defunct Peoples Redemption Party (PRP); Social Democrat-

Lamido

ic Party (SDP); Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) among others. He contested the 2011 governorship election against Governor Lamido on the platform of the ACN and performed creditably well although he lost.

In one of his campaign tours, he was quoted as saying: “We in the APC, if given the mandate pledge to uphold probity and accountability as our watchdog in governance. So, we promise to run a people’s mandate government that will cater for all and sundry devoid of any indifference in sex, race, religion or ethnic affiliation.”

Another thing going for the APC candidate is the crack in the PDP following the expulsion of the state’s deputy governor from the ruling party over alleged support for APC during the presidential election.

Responding to the development, Abubakar described it as a welcome development, adding that it will further ginger the APC to snatch Jigawa from the PDP. The embattled deputy governor on his part said what the PDP did to him by the expulsion was undemocratic. He however added that as a Moslem, he had accepted such in good faith as an act of God, but resolved to embrace the APC as his political base.

The Jigawa PDP has for long not been comfortable with Gumel, as he was accused of being a mole in the party. So, it was not surprising that his expulsion was promptly approved and ratified by PDP stakeholders in his council.

Announcing the expulsion, the Gumel council chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Ibrahim Dogo Kafinta said the deputy governor’s exit from the party is as a result of anti-party activities during the recent Presidential and National Assembly polls in Jigawa State.

He said: “Our resolve in expelling the Jigawa deputy governor from our midst was inform by his anti-party activities exhibited during the just-concluded presidential elections.”

But at a rally to receive the deputy governor to the APC fold, the party’s governorship candidate Abubakar, described Gumel as an astute politician whose action was a clear testimony that the ruling PDP is dead.

According to Abubakar, “coming into our fold by the Jigawa State deputy governor, Alhaji Ahmad Muhammad Gumel is

Abubakar

a welcome development, since it will wax our party stronger, going by the high calibre of people accompanying our August visitor.”

In his remarks, Gumel pledged to work tirelessly for the success of the party in subsequent elections. “We resolved to embrace the APC based on the party’s cardinal objectives of true democracy, good governance, upholding of social justice, and above all belief in internal democracy, qualities that PDP lacks,” he said.

It is against this backdrop and the success of the APC during the Presidential and National Assembly elections in which all the three senators of the PDP were defeated by the APC that many insist that the strength of the ruling party in the state has waned.

Unlike in the past when the PDP in the state found it easy to persuade weaker political parties to enter into alliance with it for more strength and to attract massive votes,

the situation in which it has found itself has made it difficult to get such support, as most supporters of such weak parties have already embraced the APC. The state chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Salisu Mamuda, who debunked the claim said it was the making of the opposition which has lost hope of winning the gubernatorial and state Assembly elections.

He contended that PDP as a party is set for the elections, and is not afraid of any intimidation or harassment, adding that no mischievous thoughts of the opposition will deter it from winning the elections this time around despite the massive defeat of the party in the presidential election.

Also reacting, Deputy National Chairman (North West PDP), Ambassador Ibrahim kazaure, said he is confident that the party will sweep the elections based on laudable achievements of Governor Lamido’s administration in the last eight years.

His words: “PDP will beat the APC hands down, as we are fully prepared for any of the participating registered political parties in the elections. Certainly, what our party, the PDP, delivered is enough for the party to attract success.”

Governor Lamido on his part enjoined voters in the state not to forget to differentiate between a party that is interested in their progress and development from a party of deceit, with large formation of betrayals.

A former Minister of Commerce in the Second Republic, Senator Bello Maitama Yusuf, who also drummed support for the PDP, said “before the advent of the present administration, Jigawa State was far below sea level, ranking among the least backward states in the federation, but today it has been transformed to a point that it is a reference point to others.”

He therefore called on Jigawa people to reciprocate this good gesture by re-electing the ruling PDP for continuity, saying he has confidence in the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Ringim. “With Ringim’s outstanding qualities, expertise and public exposure, I doubt if he can let Governor Lamido nor the state down,” he said

Will Yuguda reclaim

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Mohammed Kawu he outcome of the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections will ultimately determine today’s governorship and House of Assembly elections in Bauchi State.

During the March 28 elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Major General Muhammadu Buhari won with wide margin in Bauchi State. Apart from winning the presidential poll, APC also cleared the National Assembly seats in the state.

In today’s governorship election, seven out of the 26 registered political parties in the country are fielding candidates in the state but the contest has been narrowed down to APC and the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Other parties include KOWA Party

(KP); Labour Party (LP); United Progressives Party (UPP); All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The PDP has governed Bauchi State in the last 16 years. Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, the present PDP National Chairman, was elected as governor in 1999 and after completing his two terms, he handed over to the incumbent governor, Isa Yuguda. Yuguda’s second term will end on May 29.

Yuguda lost his bid to go to the senate in the March 28 election. He was defeated by the APC candidate.

Governor Yuguda has already anointed Mohammed Auwal Jatau, the PDP gubernatorial candidate as his successor.

Jatau hails from Bauchi North; the zone said to have allegedly been marginalised and deprived of the leadership of the state for almost 16 years. Mu’azu was from Bauchi South and many people

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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11 APRIL 2015

Odds against Ribadu in Adamawa IBRAHIM ABDUL writes on the governorship contest in Adamawa State

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he outcome of the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections in Adamawa State indicate that the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has become an underdog having lost all the senatorial seats in the state in one fell swoop to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party equally conceded six House of Representatives seats to APC while Social Democratic Party (SDP) managed to go with one while the remaining result of one seat was declared inconclusive.

The conduct of the elections has suddenly exposed the ruling party as the weakest in the chain next to the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) having lost the presidential ticket as well as all other contested positions. Before the Presidential and National Assembly elections were conducted, four political parties were in reckoning in the state with pundits projecting each one to have solid support base and a good chance to clinch the gubernatorial ticket. The political parties are PDP, APC, SDP and PDM. The permutations The option for the people of Adamawa State in today’s election are as clear as the crystal. The contest, which in reality is between four contenders, is at the same time a two-way game between what is right and its opposite. The four frontline candidates are Mohammed Jibrilla Bindow of APC, Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Modibbo of PDM, Engr. Marcus Gundiri of SDP, and Mallam Nuhu Ribadu of PDP. Already, the ideal choice, from the roll call, is very clear, particularly with the recent defection across the party. Sparked by the presidential election, which saw the change of baton from the PDP to APC at the national level, a lot of political realignment of forces had taken place in the build-up to the governorship election.

Reports indicate that out of the four

leading political parties in the state, the gubernatorial contest will be narrowed to two political parties namely APC and the SDP as the highly volatile PDP that has been bedevilled by internal strife. The party has been fragmented into two factions with some lending support to APC while some are lending support to SDP. Sources close to the governor that has lost his senatorial election and the state party chairman of the PDP, Chief Joel Madaki, indicate that the two PDP stalwarts have since lost faith in the party. They seem to have settled to lend their support to the gubernatorial candidate of the SDP who was also a member of the PDP before the party primaries that produced Ribadu in Abuja made him to seek alternative platform to fulfil his gubernatorial ambition elsewhere.

Though, some other sources close to the ruling party also confided that following the glaring and imminent defeat which stares the party in the face, several moves were made to pacify the gubernatorial candidate of SDP, Gundiri, to shelve his political ambition in support of the gubernatorial ambition of the PDP with a move to enhance the chances of Riabdu in the state.

“If that move sees the light of the day, then the strength of the PDP in the contest may be revived, although it may still suffer lethargy from members of the party who vowed to frustrate Ribadu’s ambition following the way he emerged as the party’s candidate,” Usman Garba Santurakia, a Yola-based commentator, argued.

In the build up to the presidential poll, President Goodluck Jonathan, had put in a lot of energy at ensuring that the internal wrangling within the party was resolved for the party to emerge victorious in the polls. This eventually culminated in the stakeholders’ meeting that took place at the Government House, Yola.

Ribadu

Odds favour APC One of the PDP stalwarts, Senator Grace Bent, who did not mince words in telling whoever cares to listen had last week, said despite the presidential intervention, most of the PDP chieftains have resolved not

Bauchi for PDP? have thought that in the principle of rotation, Bauchi North will produce the governor in 2007, but the calculation changed as incumbent governor, who is from Bauchi South, contested on the platform of the All Nigerian People’s Party (ANPP) and won the governorship election. If power shift is anything to consider in today’s election, Jatau may have a good outing.

Jatau is a grassroots politician, onetime member and Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly and currently member of the House of Representatives. Despite his political experience, some people believe that he is not popular to win the governorship poll despite being anointed by the state governor.

Also stakeholders in Bauchi North are not in support of the PDP candidate and, invariably, power shift from the South to the North. Jatau’s only card in

the elections may not be enough to swing the votes in his favour.

Now that the APC has conveniently won the presidential election and swept the three senatorial and 12 House of Representatives seats during the March 28 elections, there is a strong possibility that the APC governorship candidate, Barrister Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, would rely on Buhari’s victory to emerge victorious in today’s poll.

Abubakar, a technocrat and politician, worked both in Bauchi State and at the federal level.

If the APC wins today’s governorship poll, it means that a precedence has been set that the party of an incumbent governor loses election after eight years. Yuguda, then of the ANPP, defeated the PDP candidate in 2007.

Yuguda

to support any candidate imposed on the party. It was learnt that all the candidates who contested senatorial and House of Representatives positions may support the APC candidate following the alleged role played by Ribadu in their imminent defeat.

Already, the group which was alleged to be led by Senator Jonathan Zwingina has defected to the APC. A member of the group, Alhaji Umar Bello Jada, who was at Buhari’s rally in Yola on Wednesday, said that the group of aggrieved contestants in the party took the decision to leave PDP following the betrayal by Ribadu.

Jada alleged that Ribadu has consistently worked against their victory by starving them of campaign funds available to the party while at the same time supporting the candidates of opposition political parties.

But while the PDP remained in perpetual disarray, the APC on the other hand seems set to consolidate on its early victory as it renews its plans to go ahead and win the

gubernatorial for its candidate, Bindo, and House of Assembly polls in the state.

The possibility of the party’s victory came in the wake of the covert and overt support it has been gaining since it won the presidential and National Assembly polls in the state as a stalwart in the state, Alhaji Uba Danarewa, said on daily basis the party received influx of defectors.

No doubt, Ribadu is qualified for the job. He was a former chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and retired as Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police. But the odds are against his party, the PDP. With the result of the last presidential and National Assembly elections, APC is set to clinch the governorship seat today. Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar and impeached governor, Murtala Nyako, are bent on ensuring that the APC wins today in the state.

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Emmanuel set to succeed Akpabio singular employer of labour outside the state government with over 1,000 staff on her payroll.

Esuene’s desire to govern the state under Labour Party had received significant boost from a cross section of women in the state who saw her as one of their own. She has a pro-people manifesto and appears to be funding her campaign singlehandedly, which makes funding of her activities a lot more herculean.

However, her sojourn under LP may be her biggest setback as the party has no structure outside Uyo, the state capital.

Labour Party in the state has minimal membership strength and Esuene’s efforts so far to make the party a household name in the state has yielded very little dividends.

She is unlikely to go far in the race.

Governor Godswill Akpabio is set to deliver Akwa Ibom State to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in today’s election to his anointed political godson, Udom Emmanuel, writes TONY ANICHEBE.

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istory beckons today as Akwa Ibom State electorate go to elect Governor Godswill Akpabio’s successor. The people of Akwa Ibom will chose from four candidates namely Mr. Umana Okon Umana of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bishop Samuel Akpan of Accord Party (AP), Senator Helen Esuene of Labour Party (LP) and Mr. Udom Emmanuel of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Akwa Ibom State since 1999 has been under the control of the PDP and incidentally all the flag bearers of the APC, Labour and APC were former members of the party but defected to their present parties to realise their ambition of governing the state.

However, PDP appears to have remained strong and perhaps the party to beat in today’s gubernatorial election judging from the over 90 per cent of the votes the people in the state gave the party in the last presidential election. This could be attributed to the structures of the PDP across the state.

APC is under the control of Umana, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG). Umana took over the control of the APC from Senator John James Akpan Udoedehe who many believe nurtured the party from Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to APC. Though the party has become an alternative platform for all those that have political scores to settle with Akpabio-led PDP, Udoedehe’s venom on the way and manner he lost the party’s guber ticket and structures to Umana in the state may be their nemesis.

APC enjoys considerable followership in Oro nation of Akwa Ibom State because the ethnic group that prides itself the third largest in the state felt marginalise when the PDP machinery failed to pick one of their own as candidate of the party. The Oro people believed in the tripod of ethnicity against the tripod of senatorial district employed by the PDP in picking its candidate and had since moved en masse to APC. That appears to be where APC has considerable presence.

The Labour Party, led by Mrs. Esuene, a serving senator elected on PDP platform, has virtually no structures across the state and the same applied to Accord party led

by Bishop Akpan, a former deputy chairman of PDP in the state.

Umana’s APC Umana emerged the flag bearer after a disputed primary at Uyo Township Stadium with Senator Udoedehe, a former SSG, Finance Commissioner and Permanent Secretary in the state. Umana served under Akpabio administration for six and half years before they parted ways over his ambition to govern the state.

He has brought his influence and resources to turn around APC in the state and has considerable followership mostly among aggrieved PDP members. He is from the same senatorial district with for-

Akpabio

Emmanuel

Udoakaha-Esuene

Umana

Akpan

mer governor Victor Attah but Akpabio’s administration insists that power must shift to Eket Senatorial District.

The outcome of the Presidential and National Assembly elections in the state, which was won by the PDP, may have dampened his moral, prompting him to lead a protest for the removal of the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) and Commissioner of Police. APC may find the PDP a hard nut to crack in today’s gubernatorial election.

Odds favour Emmanuel Udom Emmanuel is a former executive director of Zenith Bank and former SSG. He came into the political mainstream of Akwa Ibom State when Akpabio relieved Umana of his SSG position.

Notwithstanding the protests that

greeted his nomination as PDP flag bearer, Emmanuel had carried out a flamboyant campaign across the state. With Akpabio’s support and solid structures on ground, Emmanuel looks good to clinch the converted seat. He had virtually met all the groups in the state to canvass for votes and had received more endorsement than any other candidate in the race. He looks set to take over the Hilltop mansion from Governor Akpabio on May 29.

Esuene’s luck with Labour The incumbent senator representing Eket Senatorial District, Esuene, was a former first lady of the defunct South-Eastern state; a former Minister of Environment and a big player in the oil and gas industry. She is equally in the hospitality business and has a record of being the biggest

Akpan’s Accord Bishop Samuel Akpan, a former lawmaker, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to Governor Akpabio and formal deputy chairman PDP was the leader of the defunct Akwa Ibom Peoples Forum, a massive political structure that brought Governor Akpabio on board in 2007 as governor.

Akpan became the most powerful politician then in the state and decided who got what at the outset of the administration.

However, Akpan’s influence was greatly whittled when Akpabio’s cousin, Ibanga Akpabio, formed a parallel group, Akwa Ibom Democratic Voice (ADV) and both groups engaged itself in supremacy battle.

Political intrigues saw the dismantling of both structures before Akpabio’s second term and Akpan went into political oblivion. His efforts to stage a comeback in 2011 with a senatorial ambition were frustrated by Akpabio’s men in favour of Helen Esuene.

Akpan was later appointed into the new State Road Maintenance Agency as chairman, an appointment he abandoned later alleging frustration and non-funding of the agency by government. Today, he has abandoned the PDP for Accord party to realise his governorship ambition.

Before his switch to Accord party, the party has no visibility in the state and his sojourn in the party has not made any serious impact either. Akpan biggest hiccups is the massive financial resources needed for big project like the governorship election and in the state every political meeting goes with lavish entertainment and money for politicians. Unlike others he has not had any public rallies but his supporters said he devoted energy to consultations with stakeholders.

Accord has no structures in the state but Akpan has some fanatical supporters who are raising funds to finance his ambition. His ambition to govern the state from 2015 may still be a mirage even as his party could not field enough candidates for the state House of Assembly election.

In the state House of Assembly elections, the ruling PDP is favoured to clear the 26 state Assembly seats today. The ruling party had won the three senatorial and 10 House of Representatives’ seats in the state. As it stands, PDP and Emmanuel are sure of coasting home to victory in today’s election.

Governor Akpabio is sure of delivering the state for PDP again as he did in the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections.

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Nigeria

PDP poised to maintain grip on Cross River politics today The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is poised to maintain its grip on the Cross River politics today, writes CLEMENT JAMES.

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he race to the Cross River State Government House is most likely to be a two-way race between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). The victory of the APC at the centre has once again galvanised the party and its outlook is taking a different shape in the state. Although the Labour Party (LP) and Independent Democrat (ID) also have some presence in the state, PDP remains the party to beat in the state as it has all the structures on the ground, coupled with its incumbency power.

Four candidates are competing for the governorship in the state. They are Ben Ayade (PDP), Odey Ochicha (APC), Fidelis Ugbo (LP) and Philip Ogbor of the Independent Democrat.

Strengths and weaknesses of parties/ candidates Ben Ayade (PDP): He is the Senator representing the northern senatorial district of the state. Ayade is known to be an astute businessman. His emergence as the governorship standard bearer of the party was a happenstance as he was not originally pencilled down for the position. Notwithstanding the change of fortunes at the centre, which tends to put the PDP under intense pressure, Ayade remains the man to beat in the state.

A lot of factors are likely to contribute to his emergence, first among which is the incumbency factor. Although these factors did not work at the centre, the situation in the state is likely to be different as the ruling party is capable of maintaining a grip on the state. Secondly, other parties have struggled to fund their campaigns, which saw the ruling party traversed the nook and cranny of the state. Other parties limited their campaigns to muffled movement.

Odey Ochicha (APC) Until this political dispensation, he was not known to the people. However, the search to have a candidate from the northern senatorial zone in order to give the opposition party a fight for their money took the APC to Bekwara Local Government Area, where the former employee of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) comes from.

A self-styled philosopher, Ochicha’s campaign was robbed of popularity until Major-General Muhammadu Buhari won the presidential election. APC used the victory as its campaign slogan. To APC, Cross Riverians must not play opposition politics, which it says, will deprive the state of social amenities. To be in the mainstream, the party is appealing to the indigenes to vote it into power today. Besides, fresh report says APC is into alliance talks with the Labour Party (LP) in the state. Although this is not confirmed, Labour Party may be willing to align with the foremost opposition party if only to take its pound of flesh from the ruling party.

Fidelis Ugbo (Labour Party) At one time, he was the Secretary to the State Government under Senator Li-

yel Imoke. Then, he was seconded to the National Planning Commission (NPC) as its Executive Secretary. The Obanlikuborn economist-banker however fell out of favour with elements in the PDP when he refused to put in abeyance his ambition to govern the state. This led him to little known Labour Party which had no resources and structure. He has since been struggling, along with the senator representing the southern district, Prince Bassey Otu and the former Chief of Staff to Imoke, Dr. Alex Egbona, to reposition the party. But with Senator Otu losing the senatorial election to Chief Gershom Bassey and Egbona capitulating to Hon. Bassey Ewa, the fortunes of the party have certainly dipped and the option is the rumoured alliance talks. Whether the talks will succeed or not is a different matter altogether.

Philip Ogbor (Independent Democrat) Until the last debate organised by the state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists at the Transcorp Metropolitan in Calabar, nobody knew there was a party like Independent Democrat in the state. It was at the event that a young man in his late 30s presented himself as the “governorship candidate” of ID. But since that debate, neither has Ogbor been seen again nor his party heard.

Bandwagon effect Even though APC won at the centre, Cross River State contributed to the modest showing of the PDP by giving 414,863 votes to the ruling party. To effectively narrow the political space in the state, PDP won all the three senatorial seats, including the northern senatorial seat where the eventual winner, Dr. Rose Oko, has been holed up in an Indian/London hospital since October last year, and all the federal constituencies in the state. Although PDP may likely lose some supporters to APC given the latter’s new found strength, the ruling party will go all out for victory.

Apart from the fact that incumbency power could play an important role in Saturday’s election, APC in the state is sharply divided over many issues, key among which is the management of resources by principal officers of the party in the state in the last election. Again, the party’s candidate, Ochicha, has been doing the yore-man’s job of campaigning alone, while blames continue to fly back and forth on who is supporting him or not in the present state executive committee. For Labour Party, if it fails to strike a deal with APC, it is most probably going into extinction because even APC is accusing the LP of asking its supporters to vote for PDP candidates in the last election.

Factors that will shape election Sentiment: There still remains a strong sentiment about the strength of PDP, especially in the rural area. While some citizens in the city may be tempted to pander to the APC, the umbrella remains symbolic in the villages. The achievements of the state government in transforming the rural areas will also count during the election. Besides, having been on the saddle for the last 16 years, it is difficult to think that any other party can win the state.

Incumbency power: Governor Imoke is, by nature, a very practical person. Since Ayade emerged as the standard bearer of the PDP in the

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Protest votes are anticipated and this, if nothing else, will reduce the voting strength of PDP

Ayade

Ochicha

Ugbo

state, he has been consistent in calling on the people to vote for him. There is no doubt that the APC victory at the centre is demoralising to him, being the South-South coordinator of the Jonathan Presidential Campaign, but he would rather not dent his political career by losing in the state he has governed for eight years. This is a challenge that the governor is likely going to take seriously. Having laid his hands on the plough, looking back is not an option for him.

APC: However, the APC is also going to give the ruling party a fight for their money. With some PDP supporters dumping the party to Labour Party and the attempt to forge an alliance between APC and Labour, protest votes are anticipated and this, if nothing else, will reduce the voting strength of PDP. The effectiveness of this protest votes will, however, be tested today.

House of Assembly The election into the state House of Assembly will take a different shape. In 2011, despite the overwhelming dominance of the PDP, the Action Congress (AC) won the Obubra II state constituency. Hon. Alex Irek, the lone opposition member continued until the merger between AC, CPC and ANPP. Today, Irek is a key issue in Obubra politics.

The state is not likely going to see an Assembly entirely dominated by the PDP in the next legislative session. Although it is difficult to put a finger on any figure, PDP will still dominate the House, especially given the fact that the governor still holds the ace in the state.

But Labour Party and the APC are likely to produce lawmakers as some of them who ran on the platform of the PDP had since defected to either of these parties.

All said, today’s governorship and House of Assembly elections in the state will be reminiscent of the 2003 election when Donald Duke of the PDP contested against his former deputy, the late John Okpa. A lot of sentiments as well as advantages would be brought into play, just as others will fight for pride. Ultimately however, the pendulum may swing in favour of the ruling party as it has all the structures and the wherewithal to ensure that it leaves nothing to chance in the state.

Although prior to this time, the PDP had viewed other parties, especially the APC, as none-existent, the upset created at the national level has forced it to accept that complacency could be dangerous. This being the case, while other parties would be struggling to make a statement in all the remaining elections, the ruling party will be on a journey to consolidate its hold on the state today.

46

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

And Enugu goes for Ugwuanyi…

Uwakwe Abugu Enugu

T

he battle for the governorship position in Enugu State today will be a straight fight between two candidates – Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Chief Okey Ezea of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Already, the political environment of the state has been charged as the leadership of the two parties, the candidates and their supporters are at their wit's end in employing deft moves to gain better grounds.

Ugwuanyi, now serving out his third term in the House of Representatives, has been permanent on the political turf of Enugu State in the last 12 years. A holder of three Masters degrees both from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Ugwuanyi is seen as a philanthropist who may have honed that disposition from his membership of the Rotary International. As a member of the House of Representatives, he has been the chairman of the House Committee on Marine Transport. He recently used that platform to attract a N5 billion project for the establishment of Institute of Marine Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He is seen as a man of immeasurable humility, a trait that has earned him the support of many across the state.

On his part, Chief Okey Ezea, governorship candidate of the APC in the state, is a lawyer who has cut his teeth in the maritime industry. Ezea, who studied Law at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, plies his maritime business in Rivers State. In the realm of partisan politics, he has been regular on the state's political scene in the past decade and his present challenge to the PDP governorship candidate is his third mission to wrest power from the ruling party in the state. He lost fatally in the first two attempts. In the present adventure, especially since his party's presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, won in the March 28 election, he has stepped up his campaigns massively and creating the impression that he is hoping to make it this time around.

PDP is the party to beat in Enugu hav-

Ugwuanyi

ing been the ruling party in the state since 1999. In fact, in the South-East, Enugu has remained the safest haven of the PDP. At the moment, the party has all three serving senators and eight House of Representatives members, all 24 members of the State House of Assembly, all 17 local government chairmen and all 260 councillors of the local government councils. In addition, Governor Sullivan Chime was elected on the platform of the party and he has always, even now, continued to deploy all resources during general elections sweep maximum votes for his party.

Therefore, it seems the lot of APC or that of any opposition party may not improve so significantly as to get an outright victory over PDP in this dispensation. For APC, what stands in its favour and which may likely improve its performance during the governorship election today is the current mode of campaign of its leaders who have been courting the electorate by warning them of the imagined consequences of the state being in opposition.

However. PDP had directed much of the energies of its leaders and canvassers in

In the SouthEast, Enugu has remained the safest haven of the PDP the state to countering the theory of alleged adverse effects of being in opposition, saying what was important is the performance of the governor who would be elected.

For the candidates, Ezea is certainly the underdog in the contest. It would be difficult for the APC candidate to effectively match his PDP counterpart. During the presidential election, reports from some parts of the state had it that the APC could not even field its agents in some polling units, perhaps, owing to lack of resources.

Again, on Wednesday, Enugu North Leaders of thought converged on Nsukka and during the well-attended assembly at the Adada which is the centre of all activities of the people of the zone, unanimously issued a communique adopting Ugwuanyi and reaffirming their earlier stand to get all the people of the area to vote for him.

All traditional rulers, political office holders, opinion leaders, associations and trade unions, market union leaders attended the event and made their respective affirmations. Since the zone counts for nearly half the voter population of the state, the

latest endorsement of Ugwuanyi is likely to worsen the chances of Ezea in today’s election if the voters would toe the line of the leaders of thought.

At the expanded meeting of the Enugu North leaders on Wednesday, traditional rulers at the meeting informed that at the state level, the natural rulers have endorsed Ugwuanyi and that they would not shift ground from that not minding the coming change in the politics at the centre.

Yet, at that meeting representatives of all market unions in the state led by Festus Onogwu, one of the leaders of the market unions in the state informed that “we have started shop to shop canvassing among the over 600,000 shops with over 600,000 voters in the markets in the state and we are doing it for Ugwuanyi.”

In the same vein, Hyginus Makata, chairman of the Forum of Councillors of local council areas in the state numbering 260 announced to the stakeholders that having shown their support for the PDP candidate earlier last year, they still stood by that affirmation of support.

Hence, if all these would come into play and deployed effectively even as the local council chairmen of the 17 local governments work for the PDP candidate, then, it would be difficult for the APC candidate to outperform his PDP counterpart in the election. Yet, there could be elements of surprises by those who seem to cling to the belief that since the APC has the presidency, Enugu people should vote in an APC governor on Saturday. What seems too Herculean a task for the APC is the factor of a clear overwhelming support for the governorship candidate of the PDP, a feat he seems to have built and achieved over time well ahead of the election.

For the House of Assembly election, but for Igbo-Eze South local council, home base of Ezea, APC could spring a surprise in the state assembly election, but the PDP looks good enough to either sweep the polls or maintain a comfortable majority in the House. As at the moment, it is an all-PDP House of Assembly.

In the past two elections in which Ezea was governorship candidate, his party never made any good showing in his local government area but he has always complained of being robbed of votes that could have made the difference.

Nasarawa: Agabi threatens Cheke Emmanuel

T Lafia

Al-Makura

wo leading governorship candidates, Alhaji Yusuf Agabi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) are squaring up against Governor Tanko Al-Makura of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in today’s election in Nasarawa State. The candidates have perfected last minutes strategies to emerge victorious at today’s polls.

The battle for the soul of Nasarawa State by contenders for the Shendam Road Government House, Lafia, has created tension and anxiety amidst intrigues, accusations and counter accusations by the major political parties. The PDP had engaged the ruling APC in war of words, accusing the party of plans to rig the election. APC

on the other hand had accused the PDP of also planning to rig the election in its strongholds.

But, if the result of the presidential election is replicated during the governorship and House of Assembly elections, then the re-election bid of Governor Al-Makura is a forgone issue. This is because President Goodluck Jonathan defeated Major-General (rtd) Muhammadu Buhari in the presidential election.

AL-MAKURA Al-Makura is the incumbent Governor of Nasarawa State. He won election on the platform of the defunct Congress for Progressive (CPC), having defeated former governor Aliyu Akwe Doma of the PDP in 2011. A quantity survey, Al-Makura is seeking re-election. His impressive performance, especially in the areas of education and road construction has endeared him to the people within and outside the state.

His leadership style has also added value

to the governance. His party, the APC, is rooted in the state and is well-structured enough to win governorship election.

However, the governor’s inability to check persistent crises in the state where innocent blood are being shed almost frequently appears to be a major factor that will likely work against him today.

Lack of human capital development and unfriendly labour posture of his administration, which many described as ‘familyand-friends’ could also pose great threat to his re-election bid. The performance of APC in the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections where PDP polled majority of votes against APC in the state has further reduced his chances of making it at the polls.

MAKU Labaran Maku, a former Minister of Information and journalist, defected from the PDP to APGA to pursue his ambition when he failed to pick PDP ticket.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

Ex-military officers’ sons battle for Power State DAN ATORI examines the serious fight between the sons of two retired military officers, Alhaji Umar Nasko of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello (Abu Lolo) of the APC.

T

oday’s governorship election in Niger State will be dicey as the aftermath of the presidential election, in which MajorGeneral Muhammadu Buhari (retd), emerged as winner of the election has great influence on who emerges victorious in the governorship race in Niger State. There is also a third contender, a female, Zuliyu Hassan Iman, who is vying for the number one seat on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Iman is the first female governorship candidate to be fielded by any political party in the history of the state.

She and her party have no stronghold in the guber race as the battle is between the PDP and APC in the state even though she is from Zone C. Umar Nasko is the son of former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, under the General Ibrahim Babangida military regime, General Gado Nasko. He has served in various capacities in the Governor Babangida Aliyu-led administration, which included his most recent position as the Chief of Staff.

Abubakar Bello is the son of former Military Governor of old Kano State, Col. Sani Bello, a former Commissioner for Commerce and Investment in the Aliyu administration. However, with the recent underground campaign and lobbying going on by

Nasko

Bello

both the PDP and the APC, there could be some sort of surprises as the 'Buharism' factor may have ended at the March 28 presidential election.

Some major interesting facts about the contenders set to battle for the soul of the 'Power State', is that they are all from zone C, where all the parties zoned the governorship position.

Apart from the SDP, which has not carried out any major campaign, the PDP and APC have intensified doorto-door lobbying to ensure they win the state.

While the APC basks in the euphoria of Buhari's victory and rely on the

mercy of the 'wind of change' to defeat the PDP's candidate, there are feelers that the PDP is bent on winning the election in the state.

Nasko and Bello have traversed the nooks and crannies of the 25 local government areas of the state to woo voters to their sides and subsequently, confront each other in the governorship election. The PDP is obviously now the opposition party with APC clearing all three senatorial and 10 House of Representatives’ seats in the state, including delivering maximum votes for its presidential candidate.

Invariably, if Nasko continually

Al-Makura’s re-election He hails from Nasarawa North senatorial zone which has been agitating for power shift since the return of democratic rule in 1999. APGA in the state has the required structure to win the governorship election. His firm control of youths, men and women especially at the grassroots in the state is capable of earning Maku victory at the polls couple with his physical and mental agility. His wide acceptability by most prominent politicians within and outside the state is an added advantage to him.

Maku has been accuse of promoting ethnic, religious and political divides. Also coming from Eggon extraction where Ombatse emanated from is another threat to his success at the polls. The fear of APGA and PDP splitting election votes is generally considered as one of the biggest hurdles counting against his victory at the polls. His chances is slim.

AGABI Agabi is a retired accountant in the fed-

eral civil service. He has huge financial muscles. He is contesting for the governorship position in the state for the first time.

In spite of that, Agabi’s PDP is well structured to battle Al-Makura’s APC at the polls. With the highest number of elected political office holders coupled with the impressive performance of PDP at the presidential and National Assembly elections, Agabi’s chances are brighter in the election. His chances of emerging victorious at the election is high.

However, in-fighting in PDP and Agabi coming from a minority tribe of Akye is considered by many as a major factor that may likely work against him at the polls.

While the outcome of elections in the state are somehow unpredictable, the race, it seems, is strictly between Al-Makura and Agabi. Maku appears to be trailing behind these two strong contenders.

Maku

rides on the back of his Principal (Aliyu), then he is likely going to lose because the governor has lost his popularity in the state.

One major factor that has hit the PDP and could affect the chances of Nasko is the fact that majority of the aggrieved governorship aspirants during the PDP primaries are the bigwigs in Zone C who have also defected to the APC. Among them are the Deputy Governor, Mr. Mustapha Bello, former governor of Kano State, Col. Aminu Isah Kontagora, Alhaji Sahabi Darangi and former Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Senator Nuhu Aliyu.

Analysts in the state bemoaned the effect of the unending defection from PDP to APC as Nasko's candidature may not get the support of the people as more PDP members are decamping to the APC owing to unfair treatment

by Aliyu. Most recently, APC received over 5,000 members of the PDP including ex-Secretary to the State Government (SSG), 10 immediate past local government chairmen and their supporters into its fold. The chances of Abu Lolo, the APC candidate, in winning the governorship election may be dampened if the three major tribes of Gbagyi, Nupe and Kamberi in the state team up to work against an Hausa.

Aliyu is from Sokoto State (Hausa) and it is believed that Abu Lolo is from Kano State. And if he emerges, it then means the Hausas, who are viewed as settlers would have ruled the state for 16 years while the indigenous candidates are left in the shadow.

It was alleged that the governor had dumped his anointed candidate, Nasko, for the APC candidate, Bello, thereby buttressing the claims that there are strong plans on ground to ensure the 'Hausas' remain in power in Niger State. He however denied the rumour, saying "it is a lie."

Majority of analysts interviewed by our correspondent said that Buhari’s factor may favour Abu Lolo since this sentiment is high as witnessed in Niger State before, during and after the presidential election. Mallam Adamu Umar, a civil servant, said the presidential election is different from the governorship poll and that the people will vote for their choice candidate and not allow the Buhari factor come in.

According to him, "it is the same change Niger people are clamouring for in governorship election. The youth prefer Nasko but they do not like PDP. So, I am sure there will be a remarkable change in the state.”

Except for Iman (the female candidate), the other two players, Nasko and Bello are tough. They have the political connection, power and resources required to fight the battle.

Even though the Buhari sentiment may play out in favour of the APC, it is now left to the electorate, who are the backbone of democracy to decide the number one citizen of the state.

If the outcome of the March 28 presidential and National Assembly elections are to be used as the yardstick for today’s election, then APC will coast home to victory.

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11 APRIL 2015

Saraki dynasty consolidates with Ahmed In the build-up to the general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to reclaim Kwara State from the All Progressives Congress (APC). But BIODUN OYELEYE reports that no serious threat is seen for the Abdulfattah Ahmed’s seat.

F

ourteen gubernatorial candidates are taking part in today’s election in Kwara State.

According to the list released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the contenders are: Senator Simeon Ajibola (PDP), Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed (APC), Oyewumi Ajibola (AA), Comfort Kayode (UPP), Musa Kolawole (AD), (KOWA), Oshin David (UDP), Alabi Kolawole (SDP), Babatunde Tayo (MPPP), Dr. Mike Omotosho (LP), Tiamiyu Kamarudeen (PPA), Adigun Adewale (PPN), Ayinla Oloruntoba (NCP), Bamidele Omotosho (CPP) and Abraham Babatunde (ACPN).

Profile of leading candidates Out of the lot, only three are at the forefront in terms of visibility, popularity and perceived seriousness to take part in the election. They are Governor Ahmed (APC), Ajibola (PDP) and Omotosho (LP).

Ahmed: Born in 1963, the APC candidate is the incumbent governor.

He is from Share in Ifelodun Local Government Area, Southern Senatorial District of the state. A former teacher before becoming a banker, Ahmed has been in government since 2003 and served as Commissioner in the ministries of Finance and Economic Development as well as Planning under ex-governor Bukola Saraki. This was before he secured the gubernatorial ticket in 2011.

Ajibola: Born in 1953, the PDP candidate has been in the Senate since 2004 and currently chairs the Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa/NAPED. He is a Quantity Surveyor by training and was a delegate to the 1994/95 National Constitutional Conference. He has also been a federal commissioner with the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). He is from Isapa, Ekiti council, Southern Senatorial District of the state.

Omotosho: A Harvard trained Programme Manager; Omotosho hails from Obbo Aiyegunle in Ekiti Local Government, Southern Senatorial District of the state. He is a Pharmacist by training and is Chief Oversight Officer at Sustainable Healthcare Initiative-Logistics under the Federal Ministry of Health. He is also Governor, District 94P/ West Africa for ToastMasters International. He is founder of Mike Omotosho Foundation. He was North Central Coordinator of Jonathan Actualisation Movement (JAM).

Strength and weaknesses of parties/candidates APC/Ahmed: APC is the strongest among the three. Apart from being the government in power, it is the party of the Saraki political dynasty,

Ahmed

which so far appears unbeatable in the politics of Kwara. In the presidential election, APC secured 68.8 per cent of the total 440,080 votes while the PDP secured 30.13 per cent of the votes even when it got support from the LP, which had adopted President Goodluck Jonathan as its candidate.

The defection of Senator Gbemisola Saraki to the APC has also given the party additional strength because the largest chunk of the Saraki political dynasty is now under the same roof. Another strength is in youth mobilisation and empowerment of artisans. Ahmed is known to be very intelligent, humble and loyal. His opponents accuse him that the two virtues are his weakness because he refused to join them against Saraki.

PDP/Ajibola The initial strength of the party was in its appeal to a coalition where individuals would be free to pursue their political dreams without submitting to a central leadership. It thus became attractive particularly to anti-Saraki

The presidential poll has given APC a comfortable lead and physiological relief to boost the determination of its members. It has apparently demoralised the PDP whose leaders, unhappy with the way the party handled the initial campaign, are now leaving to the APC.

Omotosho

Ajibola

elements in the state which seeks to institutionalise a new political paradigm different from the one left behind by the late political kingmaker in the state, Dr. Olusola Saraki.

The emergence of Ajibola, a Christian from the south, is also a source of attraction to voters from the southern district, who argue on the need to give a christian the oppotunity to also lead the state since the threemonth reign of Chief Cornelius Adebayo in 1983.

The party’s weakness is in its seeming divided house, which made it enter the campaign very late and ensure most leaders did not put in their best to the campaigns. The party also chose a wrong campaign theme with its slogan of ending 40 years of alleged slavery under Saraki while one of Saraki’s priced inheritors, Gbemisola, was a leading member.

Although it had money, PDP spent it on wrong people and projects in the state. Its choice of candidates was also not sensitive to ethnic configurations. Ajibola has a gift of swinging surprises so far in his political career but many see him as not being able to demonstrate enough grit needed for a guber campaign.

He does not appear to have much interest in the media.

LP/Omotosho Labour Party has presence in all the local government areas. Omotosho's billboards are to be found in almost every community in the state.

Since he defected from the PDP, he has given LP both colour, glamour, mention and acceptance.

The slogan of "Omo to Sure" is widespread in the state even more than the identity of his party, which is not well known in the state. He is acceptable across political platforms.

Through his Foundation, he has empowered several women and youths across the state.

Even PDP elders who are not happy he is contesting to reduce Ajibola’s chances still see him as a future hope for the state. He has a people-friendly campaign. His “weakness” seem to be that he is playing politics in a refined way; focusing on empowerment instead of doling out cash in an environment where many see cam-

paign period as the only opportunity to make money from politicians.

Chances APC/Ahmed: Both the party and its candidate have the best chance among the lot. Apart from the structure, a gale of defection is currently going on in its favour in the state.

Also, 11 candidates have stepped down for him.

PDP/Ajibola: Going by the outcome of the presidential election and the rush by many leaders out of the party, it will be a miracle to secure up to 20 per cent of the votes in this election. For a party facing a crucial election to lose the likes of Gbemi Saraki, Segun Olawoyin (Youth Leader), Nimota Ibrahim (Women Leader), Rafiu Ajiboye, a grassroots man from Ifelodun and a host of other young professionals across the state, does not give it a chance of winning.

Omotosho/LP: The LP candidate is a fresh starter and many believe he is only out to make a strong name for himself in this election, which he has achieved. He does not have what is needed to win this election but he has cultivated a lot of relationship that will position him very positively in the years to come. Apart from the gubernatorial candidate, not much is heard about other candidates being fielded by the party.

Likely effect of presidential poll on election The presidential poll has given APC a comfortable lead and physiological relief to boost the determination of its members. It has apparently demoralised the PDP whose leaders, unhappy with the way the party handled the initial campaign, are now leaving to the APC. The LP has never really tested its strength in this election as it voted PDP in the presidential election but it is likely most of its members will think APC before casting the ballot today.

Shape of the House of Assembly: Just as it is currently constituted, the 24 seats in the State house of Assembly are likely going to be filled by APC members.

Prediction: APC is likely to win with about 80:20 percent margin.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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Nigeria

11 APRIL 2015

Kano: Kwankwaso, Shekarau’s anointed test might T

Muhammad Kabir Kano

he race to the Kano State Government House is a two-horse race between Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Salihu Sagir Takai of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ganduje, who is the incumbent deputy governor of the state, was anointed by his principal, Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, while Takai is the political son of a former governor of the state and present Minister of Education, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau.

Although there are other candidates in the race like Alhaji Bashir Ishaq Bashir of the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) and Muhammad Kamakasa of Accord Party (AP), it is certain that their strength are lower in the scheme of things compared to that of the candidates of the APC and PDP. Ganduje The Deputy Governor has been so loyal to Kwankwaso all through their tenure. Although both men hold doctorate degrees in their respective fields of study, Ganduje had never for once allowed ego to rock his relationship with his principal.

Even when it was obvious that Kwankwaso was losing out in the 2003 elections, Ganduje chose to remain with him and gave him all the necessary support he so much required.

Before coming to work as deputy governor of state for the first time in 1999; both men contested the PDP’s governorship ticket, which was won by Kwankwaso. Despite the keen contest, Kwankwaso still picked Ganduje to deputise him, whereas in most states, it was a game of a winner-takes-all.

Ganduje is going into today’s election on the strength of his years of experience in politics, which dates back to his days as the council chairman of Garki council, Abuja.

While that is not the beginning of his political career as he had earlier served as commissioner for works during the military era, where he earned the nick name, “Ganduje Gadun Aiki” he came to political limelight in the state in 1999.

But after losing out with his boss in 2003, Ganduje was appointed by Kwankwaso as his special adviser when he was appointed Minister of Defence by the government of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

This ensured that Ganduje continued to wax stronger in the political arena of not only Kano but the country in general.

Similarly, he was appointed a special adviser by the late former president Umaru MusaYar’Adua’s government on Chad River Basin Development Authority, where his stay was brief. And when Kwankwaso came back in 2011 for his second term, he didn’t hesitate to quickly invite Ganduje as his running mate.

And with the open show of strength by the APC in the Presidential and National Assembly elections, where General Muhammadu Buhari almost polled all votes cast in the state (1.9 million votes), it is likely that the APC will sweep the governorship and state Assembly polls.

Basking in the euphoria of APC victory in the last elections, Ganduje said: “With the victory of my party in the elections, where we had 24 House of Representatives, three Senators; God willing, we are going to repeat same in

Takai

the Saturday elections with me becoming governor and a House of Assembly without even one opposition person.”

While the Buhari factor gives Ganduje edge over other gubernatorial candidates, more specifically Takai of the PDP, a major impediment on the deputy governor’s way is that some of his party members who have issues with Kwankwaso may work against his ambition.

Takai The PDP candidate who came to political limelight in 1999 is a dogged fighter who always stands by his political convictions.

An attestation to this was the fact that he contested his Takai Local Government Area chairmanship seat on the platform of opposition All People’s Party (APP) despite the fact that the pendulum was swinging in the PDP's direction then in 1999.

Takia and his long-time political ally, Abdullahi Rogo, then chairman of Rogo council maintained their stand and remained in the opposition even when Kwankwaso emerged governor of the state on the platform of the PDP. This earned them the respect of the state government and they were carried along in everything that happened in that government.

And when in 2003, Shekarau defeated Kwankwaso in the governorship election with the help of Takai and his allies; he was rewarded with an appointment as Commissioner for Water Resources, a position he held all through the tenure of that government.

However, Takai's political misfortune started when Shekarau insisted that he must succeed him in 2011, a development that led to all sorts of in-fighting and eventual failure of the party. But when Shekarau defected to the PDP, the belief was that he would impose his loyalists on the party and finally takes over its structures. That came to pass when Takai emerged the flag bearer of

Ganduje

the party after defeating the likes of Muhammad Abacha, Abba Murtala Risqua and Dr. Akilu Indabawa.

His alleged imposition caused disquiet among party members with many loyalists threatening to work against the party while some are even saying they are jumping ship to the APC. Despite internal wrangling, Takai is capitalising on issues of religion, just like Shekarau did in 2003, to win the governorship poll. His campaign slogan is “Kano sai mai Adini,” meaning “Kano: only a religious person can make it.”

However, many believe this is an old fashion of campaign because according to some analysts in the state, Shekarau employed the same tactics but ended up being something else.

Bashir The PDM candidate is another dogged fighter though with a low rating. He has managed to control some sections of the

Kwankwaso

media in the state, particularly the local radio station. He always wants people to believe that he is the right person for the job, and he seems to have sound policies that will propel the state to its greatness.

However, the fact remains that not many in the state are aware of his capability. What many know about him is that he organised series of visits to churches in the state in the wake of bombings in Kano, asking non-Muslims to have confident in living together with other persons.

He noted at the churches that his reason for embarking on the mission was to unite both Christians and Muslims because Nigeria at the time was facing serious inter-religious disharmony.

That mission truly worked, because many non-Muslims keyed into it, but whether that will work for Bashir in today’s election remains to be seen, as only a few are aware of those efforts by Bashir to create religious harmony among Nigerians living in the state.

Shekarau

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

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11 april 2015

Sokoto, Zamfara, Yobe, Katsina, Kebbi for APC

With the outcome of the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections the All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to win today’s polls in Zamfara, Sokoto, Yobe, Katsina and Kebbi, write UMAR ABDULLAHI (Sokoto), IDRIS SALISU (Gusau), HASSAN JIRGI (Damaturu) and ABUBAKARI ABDUL (Birnin Kebbi).

The battle in Zamfara

I

n Zamfara, three political parties are in serious contention for the Gusau Government House. They are Governor Abdul’azeez Yari Abubakar of the APC, former Governor Mahmuda Aliyu Shinkafi of the PDP and Abdullahi Shinkafi from the APGA. In the March 28 elections, the APC cleared all the legislative seats and won the presidency.

Yari in the last three years of his administration has succeeded in implementing developmental projects which by all standards and definitions have superseded the achievements of his predecessors, Ahmed Sani Yarima and Mahmud Shinkafi.

The APC’s victory in the presidential poll has helped to boost the chances of the governor with the gale of defection of top politicians across the state into the APC. Former governor of the state, Senator Yarima, has mobilised support for the governor such that there is no serious threat from the PDP. Before the March 28 polls, Shinkafi was a front runner for the governorship seat, but the defeat of the PDP has weakened his political base.

The APGA governorship candidate, Abdullahi Shinkafi, is not expected to pull surprises at the poll.

(APGA) Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi is astute politician who carved a niche for himself as the national secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Abubakar

Shinkafi

Katsina: Odds favour Masari

With the victory of General Muhammadu Buhari in the presidential election, the odds favour the APC governorship candidate in Katsina State, Aminu Masari.

Masari, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, is contesting against Governor Ibrahim Shema’s ex Commissioner of Works, Engr. Musa Nashuni, of the PDP. One major factor that will aid Masari’s victory is Buhari’s election as the president-elect. Katsina is the home state of the president-elect. The defection of political heavyweights in the state to the APC will also bolster the chances of Masari. Just on

Thursday two former PDP gubernatorial aspirants, Alhaji Kabir Barkiya and Alhaji Tukur Jikamshi, former military governor of Borno, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (rtd.), eight serving members of the state House of Assembly and two former commissioners, Nasidi Danladi and Aminu Jamo, defected to the APC. However, Governor Shema will work towards delivering the state for the PDP and its candidate.

So, with his party solidly behind him, coupled with the Buhari factor and the fact that PDP is divided down the middle, Masari expected to win.

Tambuwal

Wali

Battle in the Seat of Caliphate

mad Ahmad Jao (APA), Aliyu Bako Goronyo (ACPN), Nasiru Aliyu (SDP), Aminu A.Sala Tauma (PDC)and Abubakar Babajo Ahmed (ID).

Tambuwa and Wali are the two leading contesters in the election.

Governor Aliyu Wamakko is a major political force in Sokoto. It is expected that APC’s Tambuwal will coast home to victory in today’s governorship poll.

In the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections, General Muhammadu Buhari polled 671,926 votes against President Goodluck Jonathan’s 152,199 votes. The APC also cleared all the three senatorial and House of Representatives seats.

At a recent stakeholders’ meeting, Governor Wamakko charged the electorate to ensure that Tambuwal polled more than one million votes in today’s poll.

In Sokoto, the odds favour Tambuwal against his former boss, Senator Wali.

In Sokoto, the Seat of the Caliphate, 22 candidates are billed to participate in today's governorship election.

The Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ambassador Abdallah Wali of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are leading the pack of other governorship candidates.

Others are Muhammadu Dan-Ige (PDM), Nasiru Alhaji Larabawa (PPN), Muawuya Aliyu Husaini (LP), Salmanu Mikailu (CPP), Suleiman Aliyu (AD), Muhammad Wadata Bello (APGA), Abubakar Ahmed (UDP), Ibrahim Yaha Alkammawa (NNPP), Umar Faruk (UPN), Hajiya Salamatu Isah Abdullahi (PPA), Umar Bello (UPP), Abubakar Alhaji Audi (ADC), Sidi Almustapha Ahmed (NCP), Bello Abubakar (AA), Abubakar Aliyu (Accord), Ah-

Waziri confronts Gaidam in Yobe

Gaidam

In Yobe, the governorship battle is strictly between Governor Ibrahim Gaidam of the APC and former Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, of the PDP. With the outcome of the Presidential and National Assembly elections, where the APC won the presidency, two senatorial seats and the majority of House of Representatives’ seats, Gaidam is sure of coasting home to victory today.

Incumbency factor will work in favour of the governor while the Boko haram insurgency will count against the PDP and its candidates.

The forerunner of the APC in Yobe, the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) has been in control of the state in the last 16 years.

As it is, the odds favour Governor Gaidam in today’s election.

Kebbi goes for APC’s Bagudu

Masari

Nashuni

In Kebbi State, the APC is poised to take over governance in the state. Although the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved 18 governorship candidates to participate in the election, the real contest is between the APC and PDP. The PDP is the ruling party in the state, but with the outcome of the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections, the APC will likely sweep the governorship and House of Assembly polls.

Even Governor Usman Dankingari did not survive the APC’s onslaught in the senatorial election as his ambition to go to the Senate was truncated by the APC candidate.

The APC won all the National Assembly seats and its presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, defeated President Goodluck Jonathan with a wide margin.

Senator Atiku Bagudu of the APC stands a better chance than the PDP governorship candidate, Gen. Bello Sarki Yaki (rtd.)

Bagudu

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Ishaku

51

Nigeria

11 april 2015

Kente

Alhassan

In Taraba, it's a slugfest between APC, PDP Rabiu Mustapha

O JALINGO

n paper, no fewer than 11 candidates are vying for the Taraba State governorship seat in today’s poll, but on a realistic note, only three candidates are serious contenders in the battle for the hot seat.

The real contenders are: Alhaji Darius Dickson Ishaku of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief David Sabo Kente of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Senator Aisha Jummai Alhassan of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Like in many other states, the choice of who becomes governor amongst these three candidates today will be determined basically by the electorate. However, one of the key deciding factors in the gubernatorial race has been religion.

Ishaku and Kente are Jukun by ethnic group and Christians by faith, again, both of them hail from Taraba Southern Senatorial District, while their Muslim main challenger, Alhassan is a Fulani who hails from the northern zone.

In Taraba, it’s difficult to term any religion as the majority because of the heterogonous nature of the state, nonetheless, the state has 16 local government areas and every local government area has its dominated religion, whether Christianity or Islam.

Furthermore, Christians dominate the southern zone, while Muslims dominate the central zone, whereas the two faiths share local governments in the northern zone.

Religion will definitely influence today’s election in the state as the two different faiths vow to vote for their own.

Darius Dickson Ishaku, PDP The former Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Ishaku, was anointed to clinch the PDP ticket by the state power broker, Gen. TY Danjuma.

Ishaku was said to be relatively new in the state’s politics but has been able to play his card well thereby growing a huge support base within a short period.

He has been flaunting his achievements as a minister as part of his track record to woo stakeholders in the state.

The former minister started his career as an architect in 1980 with Inter De-sign Partnership and would later work with various architectural companies until he opened his own company and became the managing director of Exchanger Partners,

an architectural, planning and engineering firm. In 2011, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed him as Minister of State for Power, he became the acting Minister of Power in October 2012, and later Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, following a minor cabinet reshuffle.

Strength: As Danjuma’s candidate, the retired general has vast resources that he can deploy in making sure that his candidate (Ishaku) succeeds in the election. He is also a candidate of the state ruling party; therefore, he has a strong backing from the government.

Similarly, he is the consensus candidate of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and this gave him a strong advantage over others.

Ishaku picked his running mate, Haruna Manu, from the central district, a zone that was predominantly occupied by Muslims and has the highest number of registered voters; this will also help him to get the votes of some Muslims in the area.

Weakness: There was apparent incompetence in Ishaku's campaign team especially in the media section, so he was not sufficiently publicised to the electorate.

Aisha Jummai Alhassan, APC Mrs Alhassan is the senator representing Taraba North in the Senate. She is bold, fearless and outspoken. The only woman candidate for the Taraba governorship, she is fondly referred to as "Mama Taraba" by her admirers.

A lawyer by training, Alhassan was onetime attorney-general and commissioner for justice in the state. She also served as chief registrar of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). After her retirement in 2009, she joined politics.

In the January 2011 PDP primaries, she defeated the then incumbent senator of Taraba North, Ambassador Manzo Anthony. It was alleged that she was a protégé of former Governor Jolly Nyame who wanted to use her to get the senatorial seat. When she eventually won the primaries, Alhassan ran an energetic campaign, managing to gain support from the electorate and subsequently won the April 6, 2011 polls with a landslide victory defeating former Governor Nyame of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). She defected to the APC in 2013 where she eventually won the party’s primaries and became the APC’s standard bearer.

Strength: She is contesting on the APC platform and many argue that Tarabans are tired of PDP 16 years’ rule in the state with-

out meaningful development, so people may decide to vote out PDP and try APC. Recently, 12 opposition political parties formed a coalition to work for her against PDP. This is also a plus for her.

She would likely have the votes of most all the Muslim voters and this can put her ahead of the other two Christian candidates who will split the Christian votes.

She has also done well for the people of her senatorial zone and this may be counted as a plus for her gubernatorial ambition. She seems the aspirant to beat in the governorship poll.

Weakness: Alhassan is a Muslim and Christians may vote against her. Again, she is in an opposition party (the APC) therefore she has no government support.

David Sabo Kente, SDP Kente popularly known as DSK, like Ishaku, is from the southern zone. He hails from Kente village in Wukari local government area. He was among the PDP aspirants that sought governorship ticket but lost out. DSK dumped PDP for SDP out of frustration as a result of the PDP primaries that took place in Wadata Plaza Abuja, where Ishaku was announced as the winner of the primaries. Kente refused to accept the results and, subsequently, became the governorship candidate of his new party, the SDP. DSK is immensely popular in the state owing to his philanthropic activities. He has floated a foundation where he has been able to galvanise support throughout the state via his empowerment programmes.

He served in the state civil service for many years until he transferred his service to the Federal Civil Service as an Assistant Director, Finance and Head of Internal Audit Division with the National Assembly in May 2005. In September of the same year, he became the Assistant Director of Finance Central Pay Office of the Senate Account and also doubled as Head of Legislative Aides Account Division in the National Assembly in 2006.

Strength: Kente is popular amongst women and youths who have benefited immensely from his benevolence. He will definitely attract a chunk of votes from those cadres. Also, being a Christian from the southern senatorial zone is additional advantage to him.

Weakness: Kente has never contested any election. Although he has a lot of money to play around with, he is up against an entrenched interest such as Ishaku and Alhassan. He may not find it easy cracking

the nut of these contenders.

He is also considered by many as a philanthropist and less of a politician.

Again, Kente is not the consensus candidate for the state chapter of the CAN therefore that decimated his popularity amongst Christian electorate which gave him a huge setback in his ambition.

Chances of the candidates Since religion is going to shape the Taraba governorship election, and Ishaku was chosen by CAN as the Christian consensus candidate, Kente has been considered to be only a spoiler who has no chance of winning the race as the actual battle will be between Alhassan and Ishaku.

In the Presidential and National Assembly elections PDP won nine local governments out of the 16 local government areas in the state, while the APC went with seven. However, if the PDP maintains the status quo, no doubt, Ishaku would emerge victorious in the election. But this according to some political pundits would not be realisable for the ruling party. According to them, Kente (SDP) would definitely win at least two local governments, possibly Wukari and Donga which were among the local governments that the PDP won.

Political pundits say if the APC is able to secure its stronghold local governments of Gassol, Sardauna, Jalingo, Ibbi, Gashaka, Bali and Ardo Kola that can give the party a landslide victory over PDP. However, some other analysts also argue that the APC can even win two additional local governments of Ussa and Karim-lamido from the PDP, given that Alhassan picked Mr. John Maigari from Ussa`as her running mate and he is a highly respected Kuteb man, a dominant ethnic group in the local government. According to them, the Kutebs would no doubt keep the issue of religion aside and vote for Alhassan, because Kutebs and Jukuns have been rival ethnic groups for decades.

Again, the outcome of the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections, in which General Muhammadu Buhari beat President Goodluck Jonathan in the poll, gave the state APC a huge strength as some state’s prominent personalities who used to back PDP in previous elections now vowed to support the APC because they would want the state to be in the opposition. Similarly, some top PDP bigwigs defected to APC before today’s polls.

As it is, the battle for the state governorship is between PDP and APC with PDP having an edge.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigeria

11 april 2015

Ogun: Battle of old foes KUNLE OLAYENI reports that familiar foes are battling for the Ogun State governorship seat today with odds favouring Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

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he outcome of the Presidential and National Assembly elections has dramatically narrowed down the real contenders for today’s gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections in Ogun State.

In the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the All Progressives Congress (APC) won two senatorial seats and seven federal constituencies, leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to claim one senatorial seat and two federal constituencies.

The APC presidential candidate, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), also trounced his PDP counterpart, President Goodluck Jonathan, winning in 13 out of the 20 local government areas of the state. Buhari polled a total of 308,290 votes while Jonathan won clearly in seven local government areas with 207,950 votes.

But notwithstanding where the pendulum of victory swung in the previous elections, the major political parties in the state have struggled over the last two weeks to reposition themselves and outdo one another for electoral advantage. In this election, Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who is seeking re-election, is leading the APC; Prince Gboyega Isiaka is the standard bearer of PDP while Senator Akin Odunsi is mobilising the arsenal of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Barring unforeseen circumstances, the three main parties are in contention in the race of House of Assembly seats. There are 26 state constituencies in the state. The APC currently has 13 lawmakers while the PDP and SDP have 10 and three members respectively. The 13 APC members, including the Speaker, Suraj Adekunbi, are seeking re-election.

The SDP members are also jostling while very few of the PDP lawmakers got tickets for re-election.

In the emerging politics of the state, an alliance of both PDP and SDP was envisaged. To analysts, such collaboration was needed if the opposition would muster sufficient strength to oust the ruling APC. But alliance talks broke down when loyalists of former governor Olusegun Osoba in the SDP rejected overtures by the PDP. Saturday Telegraph gathered that the SDP was sceptical of entering into any deal with the PDP because it feared Prince Buruji Kashamu, who controls the structure of the party, may ultimately betray their pact. This informed why Odunsi addressed a press conference in Abeokuta where he stated that the SDP had no intention or plan to merge with any political party.

“We are being approached by several interest groups, political groups but we as a party have de-

Amosun

cided that we would not form any alliance, we would not drop our party name. We welcome all those who are willing to work with us.

But the SDP would run this race to the end. I know that our chances are as bright as ever in the coming election,” Odunsi said, in spite of the abysmal performance of the SDP at the National Assembly elections.

Amosun on a second journey Judging by the victory recorded by his party in March 28 presidential polls, one might conclude that Amosun would coast to victory in the governorship contest.

Having emasculated the ruling APC in the state and edged out loyalists of Osoba in the struggle for control of the party, the governor is now at a vantage position to win a re-election.

After an initial unsuccessful bid in 2007 as the standard bearer of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), Amosun eventually rose to power in 2011 on the platform of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). He polled 377,487 votes to beat his main challengers–General Adetunji Olurin of the PDP and Gboyega Isiaka of the Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN) – to second and third positions respectively.

Amosun’s journey into politics began out of the desire to give back to the society. In 2003, the chartered accountant was elected into the Senate as a PDP member representing Ogun Central Senatorial District. During his tenure at the upper chamber of the National Assembly, he served as the Chairman, Senate Committee on Commerce. He also served as a member in the Senate Committees on Appropriation, Foreign Affairs, Privatisation, as well as Security and Intelligence.

As governor for about four years, Amosun is seen to have recorded landmark achievements, especially in the areas of road construction, urban and infrastructural renewal, education, transportation, security and en-

Isiaka

I know that our chances are as bright as ever in the coming election,” Odunsi said, in spite of the abysmal performance of the SDP at the National Assembly elections

vironment, among others. With his acclaimed record of sterling performance and the apparent inability of the opposition to present a common front to challenge him, the incumbent seems confident about victory.

However, feelers have it that the governor is not resting on his laurels. With a rock solid support from Egba division where he hails from, Amosun is making inroad into opposition strongholds in Ijebu and Yewa-Awori areas. His allies in the two zones are working tirelessly to dismantle encumbrances to his victory.

Also, the governor has been trying frantically to court the civil and public servants with mouthwatering incentives, including payment of some of their outstanding deductions which had pitted the workers against the state government. The icing on the cake for Amosun is his endorsement by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Apart from endorsing the governor for a second term in office, the ex-president has taken his campaign to the markets to drum support for all APC candidates in today’s elections.

Isiaka’s on another journey For Isiaka, however, today’s

Odunsi

contest is a rematch of sorts with Amosun. He emerged candidate of his party against all odds and has conducted an intense campaign that made him a force to be reckoned with in the state politics. Despite the infighting and disagreement among the contending camps within the party, the PDP candidate has thus far held various groups together with the common objective to wrest power from the incumbent.

Isiaka, who hails from Imeko-Afon in Ogun West Senatorial District, served as the group managing director of the state’s investment arm, Gateway Holdings Limited, during the tenure of former governor Gbenga Daniel.

The technocrat contested the 2011 governorship on the platform of PPN. His foray into the PPN was a result of the schism and supremacy battle in the PDP between factions loyal to Obasanjo and Daniel. Isiaka originally won the PDP ticket but the order of Justice Abdul Kafarati of an Abuja Federal High Court truncated his gubernatorial quest and decided the matter in favour of General Olurin (rtd).

But Isiaka did not abandon his ambition. He followed Daniel and his political associates when they defected to the Labour Party (LP). He was the frontline governorship aspirant in LP until the emerging political realignment ahead of 2015 elections forced him back into the PDP. He has promised “life more abundant” for the people of the State. This campaign promise includes expansion of state economy, provision of quality human capital, strengthening people and society as well as energising government and the polity.

What could count in favour of Isiaka include a relatively stronger political platform, sound professional and academic background, solid and enviable private sector performance as well as sterling public sector performance and

achievements. Apart from the fact that he is a well-known brand having campaigned in all the 236 wards of the state, the sentiment that Ogun West zone has not produced governor in the 39 years of the state creation may further propel Isiaka’s ambition.

But with the baggage of PDP’s inability to win any seat in Ogun West zone during the March 28 election, opinions are still divided on whether Isiaka can create any upset in the election. From the look of things, the PDP is much popular in Ogun East Senatorial District where it won one senatorial seat and two federal constituencies. Isiaka would be banking on votes from the East zone while hoping to win the majority of the votes from the Yewa-Awori extraction in order to triumph at the poll. To attain victory, the PDP candidate has also made incursion within the civil servants who are dissatisfied over the government’s handling of their cooperative deductions and other benefits.

Struggling SDP in the face of defeat On the part of SDP, ex-governor Osoba and his loyalists that moved to the party may have resolved to swim or sink together.

The SDP, which fielded two incumbent senators, Adegbenga Kaka and Gbenga Obadara, as well as five serving House of Representatives members, could not make any significant show at the just-concluded National Assembly elections.

There were arguments that they were swept away by the Buhari momentum. The bandwagon effect may also be staring SDP members in the face as they approach the gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections.

But nothing can be foreclosed in politics. Some of the Assembly candidates presented by the party are popular and may fly in their constituencies, all things being equal, Amosun may win comfortably today.

Perspectives

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

53

Oba Akiolu, efulefu Eze Ndigbo and the lagoon threat

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s Nigerians go to the poll again today to elect their governors and lawmakers into the various state houses of assembly, I have advised my Igbo friends resident in Lagos not to vote according to their conscience. They should perform their civic responsibility based on the mind-set of the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu. Although my advice was unsolicited, I took the initiative to show how I value their friendships since I do not want them to drown in the lagoon.

Notwithstanding my advice, some of them said they had resolved to test the veracity and the efficacy of Oba Akiolu’s curse that they would perish in the Lagos lagoon if they did not vote for his anointed candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in today’s election.

My friends’ resolution reminds one of the ‘Decembrist Uprising’ in Russia on December 26, 1825, in the Senate Square in Saint Petersburg. Since the events occurred in December, the rebels who spearheaded the uprising were called Decembrists.

At that time, Russian army officers led no fewer than 3,000 soldiers in protest against the assumption of the throne

by Nicholas 1 after his elder brother, Constantine, distanced himself from the line of succession. Some Russians considered his ascendancy as inappropriate and some equally felt it was high time Russia caught up with the rest of Europe in terms of development.

But Nicholas 1 would not tolerate any opposition. He brutally crushed the uprising and sentenced one of its leaders,

Waheed Bakare on Saturday 08124877036 (sms only) waheedbakare2003@yahoo.com Kondraty Ryleyev, to death by hanging.

On the day Ryleyev was to be executed, he was brought to the gallows. The hangman put the noose around his neck and opened the trapdoor. But as Ryleyev dangled, the rope broke, crashing him on the ground. Such events, though rare, were at the time considered to be divine and an indication that God had intervened and the convict would no longer be executed.

Rather than be grateful for the providential intervention, Ryleyev got up from the ground, turned to the crowd who had gathered to watch his execution and yelled: “You see, in Russia they don’t know how to do anything properly, not even how to make rope!”

A messenger dashed to the palace to inform Nicholas 1 about what happened at the execution ground. Nicholas 1 who had wanted to use the execution to silence the opposition was obviously disappointed. However, he had no choice than to sign the paper of clemency in line with the tradition. As he was doing this, he asked the messenger what was Ryleyev’s response after the failed execution. The messenger replied: “He (Ryleyev) mocked Russia by saying we don’t even know

Why pour venom on only Oba Akiolu and leave out the efulefu (spineless) Eze Ndigbos who applauded him when he made those remarks? how to make rope.”

“In that case, let us prove the contrary,” Nicholas 1 said, and tore the clemency paper. The next day, the hangman brought another rope and Ryleyev was unlucky this time. As we say in our local parlance, his mouth killed him. The didactic of this epic is that saying more than necessary can make one appear common in the eyes of the people even if you are an aristocrat. Beside, words are like eggs, once they fall out of your mouth, you can’t pick them up again.

As if I had the premonition, I had in my column of March 21, entitled, “Yoruba monarchs, Awujale and partisan politics”, argued that it was not right for monarchs to be politically partisan and if because all humans are political animals, royal fathers should at least extend their arms to all politicians irrespective of their political affiliations.

I was specifically filled with apprehension about the open romance between Oba Akiolu and Ambode. In the said column, I had asked with trepidation: “On what basis will a monarch ask his subjects to vote for a particular candidate or give his royal blessing to one candidate and shut the door of his palace against the other?”

It is perilous for any monarch to canvass for vote for any candidate particularly because we run a system where royal fathers largely depend on government for survival. What then becomes of a politically partisan monarch whose candidate did not win the election? However if Oba Akiolu did not see the perils posed by his partisanship, he should have chosen other

Oba Akiolu

means of professing his love for Ambode and his party than this infamous one which makes his candidate and his party ill at ease. All the damage control as well as the hurriedly put together rally by the APC in the Igbo dominated areas on Tuesday would not have arisen if not for Oba Akiolu’s gaffe.

For those who feel the Yoruba are morally bound to defend the Lagos monarch, I beg to disagree. If we flayed the gadfly Ekiti Governor Ayo Fayose for his detestable advertisement in the media suggesting that Gen. Muhammadu Buhari may die in office, rebuked some Yoruba monarchs for consorting with President Goodluck Jonathan at the Ooni of Ife’s palace, why should we festooned Oba Akiolu for his travesty of democracy?

On the other hand, the gale of abuse and the use of unprintable adjectives on the generality of the Yoruba by those who feel aggrieved by the Oba’s threat smack of hypocrisy, uncultured and indecorous especially when there is nothing to suggest that the monarch spoke on behalf of the Yoruba or had their backing.

Why pour venom on only Oba Akiolu and leave out the efulefu (spineless) Eze Ndigbos who applauded him when he made those remarks and had earlier apologised to the Oba for the “mistake” made by the Igbo for voting for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the presidential and National Assembly elections? The reaction of the Eze Ndigbos at the event was derided and we cannot pretend as if that does not matter. I learnt they are APC members and that may have qualified them to be Eze Ndigbo. Perhaps, it was for their spinelessness and avarice that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural Igbo group, some years back wrote to all Yoruba monarchs not to recognise any Eze Ndigbo outside the South-East states.

While what Oba Akiolu said cannot be acceptable within the context of one Nigeria, declaring Lagos as a ‘no man’s land’ is inexpedient unless other cosmopolitan cities in Nigeria will be declared as such and the indigenes of those cities allow and believe in such status.

Using expletive words on one ethnic group by another on account of a wrong done by an individual or putting a garland around the neck of an individual by members of his ethnic group for bringing down another ethnic group will further deepen the mutual suspicion among Nigeria’s ethnic groups. The pattern of the presidential election result has shown how politically, ethnically and religiously divisive we are and we cannot afford to further heat up the polity with our unsavoury remarks.

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Investigations

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

Polls: Nigerians that As Nigerians elect new governors and states’ legislators today, Jehovah’s Witnesses' members would not be part of it. But, unlike the SeventhDay Adventist faithful and many others, who are shut out for circumstances beyond their control, Witness adherents declined to be part of the country’s electoral process due to their belief that is not biblical, reports ISIOMA MADIKE

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ehovah's Witnesses, like other Christian denominations, has its peculiar doctrines.

One of such enjoins members to be politically neutral and abstain from voting. This position, however, has made some of them to suffer imprisonment and even death in some countries such as Malawi. But, the requirement not to be involved in political affairs has also varied overtime from country to country.

In Nigeria, for instance, Witness adherents have been told they are forbidden from voting for any candidate or contesting in any of the country’s elections.

The body claimed that doing such was satanic and contrary to God’s commandment.

Saturday Telegraph findings revealed that members of Jehovah’s Witness were also warned not to obtain voter ’s cards. The directive, this reporter gathered, was not a mere order as, according to it, any member found participating or voting during the elections risked being excommunicated.

Some of the members, who confirmed the directive, claimed that the order was right because “we are still waiting for the kingdom of God that is yet to be established on earth.”

An elder in the congregation, James Uduok, affirmed this position. He said that the teaching of the Witness was strongly embedded in the Bible and all members must adhere strictly to it or leave the congregation.

Other members, who spoke to this reporter on condition of anonymity, defended their decision not to vote or get involved in the electoral process by quoting from the scriptures to back up their claims. According to them, Mathew 4: 8 and 6:9 instructed faithful to pray thus: “Our Father in heaven may your holy name be honoured. May your kingdom come.”

To them, this scripture implies that the kingdom of God has not come and they are still waiting for it to come. They went further

Isioma madike

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

to detail how in Mathew 4:8, the scripture narrated how the devil took Jesus to a high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and promised to give them to Him if He bowed down and worshipped him. They equally claimed that this world belongs to Satan.

However, pastors of other Christian denominations, who spoke to this reporter, noted that Jehovah’s Witnesses' belief was strange because, according to them, the same Bible mandated Christians to respect constituted authority. “God recognises leadership and authority of leaders in the society,” one of the pastors, who asked not to be identified, said.

Another said even in ages past, there was clamour for leaders, as reported in the Bible that the people elected their leaders.

In like manner, a Sabbath pastor, who also does not want his name in print, said Witnesses are misinterpreting the Bible and should be ignored. He claimed that their belief was not consistent with biblical teaching.

“If such teaching is followed, it could lead their members to imbibe false doctrine," the pastor said.

Incidentally, Witnesses believe firmly that their allegiance belongs to God's Kingdom, which they view as an actual government. This belief also makes them to refrain from saluting the flag of any country or singing nationalistic songs like anthems, which they view as forms of worship, although, they may stand out of respect.

In some countries, they also refuse to participate in military service where such is a compulsion, and encourage all faithful wherever they find themselves not to become involved in politics. They believe Jesus' refusal to rule the kingdoms of the world as offered by the Devil, and His refusal to be made king of Israel by the Jews, provide the bases for not being involved in politics or government.

They are always quick to point to Jesus statements that He, his followers, and His kingdom are not part of the world.

By this stance, Jehovah’s Witnesses add to over six million Nigerians including the Adventist adherents and others, who usually engage on essential duties on such days, and Nigerians in the Diaspora, that would miss out in today’s crucial elections.

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Burgess Hill

Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Maryland, Lagos

We are still waiting for the kingdom of God that is yet to be established on earth

The Seventh-Day Adventist worship on Saturdays in respect to their interpretations of sections of the Holy Bible that talked about God resting on the seventh day after creation. Because of this, they would not, for whatever reasons, compromise that day. And so, they have been agitating that general elections in Nigeria be moved away from Saturdays to enable them to participate.

They have, before today, missed out on previous elections in the country because they held on to the Sabbath doctrines. Presi-

PHOTO: COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG

photo: tony eguaye

dent of the Church, Eastern Nigerian Union, Pastor Bassey Udoh, said elections should be fixed on public holidays as done in most advanced countries of the world to give Sabbath worshippers equal opportunity to participate.

“Election is a very important event that in developed countries, public holidays are declared for elections and if the Nigerian Government sees election as important event, public holidays should be declared for days of major elections. Our reason is that we have never seen elections

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

11 APRIL 2015

are shut out (2)

Jega

A woman casting her vote during the last presidential election photo: www.vanguardngr.com

fixed on Fridays and Sundays because government has taken cognisance of Muslims and Sunday Christian worshippers. It is for this reason that Sabbath keepers are saying that our right to vote and to be voted for should be respected and that elections should not be fixed on Saturdays,’’ he said.

Udoh noted that more than five million Sabbath worshippers would be disenfranchised if the country's electoral commission insists on having elections on Saturdays. “We are not trying to impose our religious belief on Nigerians but we are simply trying to stress the need for the

constitutional right of our members and our urge to discharge our civic duties. There is the provision for the Fundamental Rights of Citizens; that is the right to worship and that should be respected. We are calling on government to look at the constitution in considering the issue of election date,’’ he said.

He did not stop there but added: “We have been suppressed, marginalised and disenfranchised for so many years and we are saying for how long. We are citizens of this country and we should not be disenfranchised, that is what we are saying. We have not asked our members not to vote; that will be wrong. But by implication, if election is put on Saturdays, it means you have disenfranchised us,’’ the cleric said.

In like manner, the Church’s stakeholders claimed that letters have been sent to the appropriate government institutions on the need to fix elections on any of the working days instead of Saturdays. The Western Nigerian Union President of the Church, Pastor Oyeleke Owolabi, like his counterpart in the East, noted that many countries in the world do not conduct elections on Saturdays. He stressed that this was to allow for religious liberty.

The church, unlike the Jehovah Witness, had made it mandatory for every member to register during the voter registration just to show the government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that they are ready for elections. It claimed to have also written to INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, to reconsider changing the election timetable to enable its members to participate in the coming exercise like it was the case in the United States of America and Ghana in their most recent elections.

They argue that the church has made contributions to the development of the country since its inception in Nigeria in 1914, especially in education, health and other areas.

Good as this appeal may seem, there are those who believe there would be greater problem if the request to consider this group of religious faithful is granted. Arguments are that other religious groups that worship on other days other than Saturdays would also kick and no one would be able to fault them. Even atheists, according to those on this divide, would giggle in derision.

This, they say, may not be out of place due to their aversion to religion.

There are also others, who believe that such action would throw the nation into constitution crisis, and the definitive meaning of constitutional ambiguity would be all too clear. Yet, there are those, who believe Jega and INEC should listen to the SeventhDay Adventist Church. For instance, executive director, Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Egbuodike Ezike, said that the Adventist Church’s concerns are valid.

“It is something that the electoral body should give consideration to and not dismiss as an unwanted irritant.

My only worry is how it would affect an election that is already strung precariously to ethno-religious divides. People typically vote, and are voted for, according to their ethnic or religious persuasions. Despite the

Olayemi

Constitution’s outlandish prohibition of state religion, which, in Nigeria’s particular case, is more theoretical than practical; the ‘major ’ religions have, historically, had a loud, enormously disruptive voice in the country’s politics.

“Although, the political document says in unequivocal language that ‘the Government of the Federation or of a State shall not adopt any religion as State Religion,’ Islam and the major Christian denominations have had their say, and sometimes their way, in the political organisation of Nigeria because of their parochial sense of self-adulation. So, when a smaller, though no less important, denomination of Christians demands electoral participation, its voice is entirely valid. It has to be listened to,” Ezike said.

To the district pastor of the Adventist Church, Oregun, in Lagos State, Joseph Olayemi, the real travesty would be the denial should elections run on a Saturday, the Adventists’ day

Ezike

Investigations

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of worship. “Adventists’ fundamental human rights: the right to vote and the right to worship would be violated.

Both rights are guaranteed by the Constitution. Since the Constitution has no quarrel with any religion’s day of worship, voting on a Saturday would obliterate that freedom for millions of adherents of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, who have to worship their God on that day,” Olayemi said.

But, the Seven-Day Adventists faithful are not the only ones that are systematically being disenfranchised.

There are other Nigerians, who by their profession are also denied the right to vote. Those that fall into this group include segments of Nigerians that are usually on essential duties on such days. National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) members, who are habitually deployed as ad hoc staff of INEC during elections are among such people. Because of the requirements of their deployment, they are usually not able to vote in areas where they registered.

Others are medical personnel on duty at such times; members of the armed forces that are used to maintain peace during elections in areas other than where they reside, and journalists, who monitor elections.

A Lagos-based lawyer, Emeka Obi, believes this group of Nigerians should be considered in the electoral process.

“If they are doing something that would advance the cause of the nation that would not deprive them of their fundamental right to vote. Something has to be done; may be, a special arrangement to enable them participate.

They could be granted excuse to vote at any point they found themselves during elections,” he suggested.

There has equally been the nagging issue of the Diaspora Nigerians.

There have been calls by Nigerians living abroad to be part of the country’s electoral process. Unfortunately, INEC has said that it is “practically impossible” for them to vote during the 2015 general elections even if the Electoral Act, 2010 is amended to allow for such.

Jega said a provision of the law that requires every eligible person to cast their ballot at the polling unit where they registered as a voter forecloses Diaspora voting. He, however, asserted that the commission would not relent in its aspiration to make Nigeria’s electoral system more inclusive by accommodating citizens living abroad.

He said: “In Nigeria, we are doing our best to open up our system for citizens in the Diaspora to be able to vote. Unfortunately, there are presently legal inhibitions, because our laws prohibit Diaspora voting.

“There is a provision in our laws that require every eligible person to cast their ballot at the polling unit where they have registered as a voter.

The implication is that for people in the Diaspora to participate in our elections, they will have to come home to register as voters, and subsequently cast their votes at the polling units where they registered,” he said.

For many Nigerians, the issue of inclusive participation in electoral process in the country represents one of the many forces tie into the democratic dilemma the nation would have to tackle.

• CONCLUDED

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War in Manchester

Rooney uthless

ready for City

W

Ajibade Olusesan ayne Rooney’s sublime strike in Manchester United’s 3-1 win against Aston Villa last weekend defines the quality the Englishman brings to the Red Devils that made the club dreaded especially during the reign of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Wazza, as he is fondly called by United’s faithful, collected a cross from Angel Di Maria, brought it down with a delicate touch and fired the ball into the top corner with a perfect half-volley. A terrific effort!

Red Devils’ next Premier League opponents, Manchester City, have been at the receiving end of such awesome display by the England captain when he scored his now famed overhead kick in Man Utd’s 2-1 win against the Citizens in 2011.

And the ‘noisy neighbours’ will be wary of the striker when the two sides meet tomorrow (Sunday) at the Old Trafford.

Rooney knows how to score against Man City, he usually stands out even on a day the Red Devils have terrible outings against their rivals and he would be the main target for the Eastlanders in this tie.

The Man Utd captain was quiet at the start of the season largely due to the fact he was played far out of position. Rooney is a utility player but he is more comfortable in the centre of the attack but Coach Luis Van Gaal tucked him into the midfield to accommodate the new strikers he brought in last summer.

However, after a run of poor form in front of goal and injury to Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie at different times, the

Dutch coach reluctantly reverted Rooney to his normal position and the England captain has proved to the coach he was wrong in the first instance.

United are maintaining a winning streak that has run up to five matches, and at the centre of the possession-dominating, highscoring display of the Red Devils is their captain. Rooney has scored five goals in the last six matches and managed just seven in more than 20 games before that revival.

Manchester United have solidified their chances of finishing in the top-four after they opened up an eight-point gap over Liverpool who were threatening them just about few weeks ago. They have also leapfrogged Man City into the third spot, albeit with one point, but a victory in this one for the hosts will further widen the gap between the two clubs.

Van Gaal, who described Rooney’s goal against Villa as a "great one", will look up to his captain for another outstanding performance.

Rooney’s presence in Manchester United is not only felt with all the magical goals he scores, his leadership has been outstanding this year after Van Gaal named him captain and defender Phil Jones said after the Villa match that: “Wayne’s a leader and everybody follows him. He leads by example and doesn’t just say things [to the other players in the dressing room] for the sake of it, it really means something. He made a comment before the game saying it’s no good beating Liverpool if you can’t beat Aston Villa at Old Trafford and he was bang on. Thankfully we’ve done that.”

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