Sunday, april 19, 2015 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

A media partner of

SUNDAY

Sanctity of Truth

Sunday, APRIL 19, 2015 Vol. 2 No. 424

/newtelegraph

N150

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

Monalisa Chinda Nollywood star actress on life as a divorcee, career and lifestyle }17 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP

apc BREAKs into camps LAWAN

SARAKI

Explosion: Kogi deputy gov’s wife, three others escape death }5

Jonathan, Buhari to meet on handover formalities soon }5

Fayose, pro-impeachment lawmakers ready for dialogue}7 }8

BUHARI

TINUBU

AKUME

GBAJABIAMILA

lBuhari/ Tinubu support Lawan of Yobe State } 4 No hope for Chibok for Senate Presidency, Gbajabiamila for Speaker schoolgirls’ rescue, says Okupe lAmaechi’s camp backs Saraki lAkume kicks }14

Nigerians mobilise for boycott of South African businesses lZuma cancels Indonesia trip, visits displaced immigrants

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 19.04.15 BODY & SOUL

Eyes on the poor Mrs. Bukola Adebiyi, through her Jakin NGO, aims at solving some social ills

}18

POLITICS

Broken promises As many governors prepare their handover notes, a retrospective exhibition shows they are leaving heavy debt profile and scores of abandoned projects behind

}31

BUSINESS

Rising oil price The rebound in oil price last week, experts say, may not return the industry to the preJune 2014 price of over $100 per barrel

}23

FAITH

Task before Buhari Bishop Francis Wale Oke wants the President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari to fix two problems

}51

SPORT

Ayo Obileye’s hope The hope of Nigerian-born English soccer player, Ayo Obileye, of playing for the Nigerian national junior soccer team is fizzling out

}60

LIFE

Bigamy Unbelieveable:Woman remarries while living with lawfully wedded husband

}41

SUNDAY

Editorial

Let this democracy work

fter sixteen years of democratic rule, there is need for the country to harvest from the experience we have accumulated in our march to stability. In other words, so much energy has been wasted trying to get things done as in other climes. At this time of our national development, Nigeria should be working. Following the successful conduct of elections, what must follow is work and more work. Beginning from the President –elect, to governors and legislators, it will no more be business as usual. If we sincerely hope to be recognised by the globe as true Giant of Africa, we have to act and play big. Yes, we are Africa’s largest economy. Beyond the appellation, it is absurd that the sixth largest oil producing nation, should be importing petroleum products. It makes no sense that we cannot refine crude oil which we produce,within our shores. This same oil was refined locally during the dark days of the Civil War. The Biafrans, who were in dire straits, did not run to Venezuela or Saudi Arabia for fuel. They were able to build a refinery in Awo Omama. Unemployment cannot be banished but something must be done to reduce the number of criminals in our society. Those we send to tertiary institutions, use as National Youth Service Corps[NYSC] members after graduation and abandon thereafter, hardly find jobs, several years after graduation. They therefore become willing tools in the field of uncertainity. Several industries which either had to relocate to sister West African countries or exist no more, offered opportunities to millions of compatriots. Government must, therefore, begin a new process of industrialization to accommodate so many, who are willing and capable but have been left with little hope for tomorrow. Our politicians must begin to see themselves as statesmen, like the Nnamdi Azikiwes, the Obafemi Awolowos and the Tafawa Balewas. Politics is not all about uncouth language and thuggery. What comes out of the mouth of our nascent politicians, stinks more than garbage. Such personalities of dishonour definitely cannot offer much.

Dr. Azikiwe was known as the Great Zik of Africa, Chief Awolowo was the Sage and Balewa, Golden Voice of Africa. These were men with vision whose legacies are enough to take this country to the next level. That the South –West has the highest number of industries today is because Awolowo saw industrialization as the key to economic growth. The same zone wields a lot of influence in the media, thanks to Awo’s foresight. He established the first television station in Africa in 1959. Today, it is difficult to point to more than one house, owned by either Balewa or his political mentor, Sir Ahmadu Bello. In 16 years of democracy, some of our politicians have stolen more money than the trio of Zik, Awo and Balewa ever handled as leaders. Looting has become fashionable in our rich country of poor people. The change that has taken place should not be about leadership. Attitudes must change. Even if habit is second nature, the stupendous roguery of past months must come to an end. Government must be accountable and reliable. For every kobo stolen by officials, a Nigerian soul suffers. Sixteen years of democracy must yield results, not dividends of bore hole and two –kilometre roads. Those who are going into government, must stay away from publicizing minute things that do not deserve all the hype. Building a new secondary school for the people is nothing to make noise about. Buying sewing machines and hair dryers is something that should not be taken out of the ceremony grounds. What the people deserve , what compatriots pray for, are food, housing, power and water. With these, a lot could be achieved. Housing does not mean that poor peasants will be tormented with ‘affordable’ homes at 15 Million Naira, as we see in some states of the federation. We believe that this country cannot afford to watch while the world is moving on a fast lane. We demand good leadership, the people have shown the way by choosing change. The best they deserve are those things that keep our sons and daughters running to other climes. Nigeria must work, and the time is now.

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

Eric Osagie

Editor n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor n Suleiman Uba Gaya

Editor, Saturday n Laurence Ani

Editor, Sunday n Emeka Madunagu

Deputy Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah

Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz

Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins

Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Ag. Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi

Asst. Editor, News & Politics n Biyi Adegoroye

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed

Sales/Circulation Manager n Oyebanji Abiodun

Head, Graphics n Timothy Akinleye

Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

Adam Eve SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

19 APRIL, 2015

Celestine

Burst: 36 Height: 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;7 Weight: 75 Hobby: Acting Contact: 0703 834 8926

Patience

Waist: 37 Height: 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;7 Contact: 0806 771 2517 Student/actress

Telegraph Adam&Eve is a page for the young, lively, sexy, cute and daring male and female. If you fit the bill, send your profile, snazziest high resolution image, phone number and email to: julietbumah@gmail.com; editor.body-soul@newtelegraphonline.com, Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja or our corporate head office, No 1A, Ajumobi Close, Off ACME Road, Ikeja, Lagos. Enquiries: +234 (0)811-675-9770.

SUNDAY 19 APRIL, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

he All Progressives Congress is divided over the choice of leadership of the National Assembly. In the build-up to the contest for the principal offices of both chambers of the federal parliament, three power blocks have emerged in the APC. The camps are canvassing for different geo-political zones and candidates to clinch the coveted seats, particularly those of the Senate President and Speaker, House of Representatives. Already, North-East and North-Central zonal chapters of the APC have canvassed for the zoning of the Senate Presidency to their respective zones, warning of dire consequences if the national leadership of the party fails to zone the office to either of them. The South-South and South-East are out of the race for the Senate Presidency because the only APC senator from the two zones is a new member from Edo State. North-West and South-West are out of the race because the zones produced the president and vice president for the incoming administration. The national leadership of the party will meet in Abuja between Monday and Wednesday to deliberate on the zoning of the legislative offices. APC won majority seats in both the Senate and House of Representatives in the March 28 poll. In the Senate, APC secured 60 seats while the Peoples Democratic Party got 49 slots. In the House, APC secured more than 250 seats while the PDP got a little above 100. Impeccable sources told Sunday Telegraph that some powerful forces in the party with the support of President-elect Muhammadu Buhari and APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, are canvassing for the zoning of the office of the Senate President to the North-East and the Speakership to the South-West. The Buhari/Tinubu camp also favours the Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Senator Ahmad Lawan, as Senate President. Lawan, who hails from the North-Eastern State of Yobe, is one of the most experienced lawmakers in the Senate. He holds Master’s and Doctorate degrees. He spent two terms in the House between 1999 and 2007. He was elected into the Senate in 2007 and reelected in 2011. He will be serving his third term in the Senate from June 2015. A member of the National Working Committee of the party told Sunday Telegraph that the four NorthEast governors – Kashim Shettima (Borno), Ibrahim Gaidam (Yobe), and Governors-elect Jibrila Bindow (Adamawa) and Moham-

APC splits over National Assembly leadership med Abubakar (Bauchi) have thrown their weight behind Lawan. The same forces are also rooting for the House Minority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. But Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State is leading other forces pushing for the zoning of the Senate President to the North-Central with a former governor of Kwara State, Senator Bukola Saraki, as the favourite for the office. Amaechi, the director-general of the APC Presidential Campaign Organisation, is contending that the New PDP that coalesced into the APC must get the coveted seat, given the sacrifices it made for the success of the opposition party. Former governor of Benue State and Senate Minority Leader, Senator George Akume, is also constituting the third force. Akume has set his eyes on the Senate Presidency since 2007 when he was first elected as a senator. He has been holding talks with his colleagues, soliciting for their support to clinch the seat. The former governor is also kicking against zoning the office to the North-East. “Zoning the office to the North-East will be a deliberate attempt to shut out Akume and Saraki. We will resist this,” a senator told Sunday Telegraph. Though PDP has lost its majority status in the incoming Eighth Assembly scheduled for inauguration in June, Senate President David Mark is still exploring the possibility of a division within the ranks of APC to make a deft move for the office. Mark is already reaching out to some APC senators for support while holding firmly to the PDP senators in the event that the contest is thrown open. Former governor of Zamfara State, Senator Ahmed Yerima, is reportedly backing Mark’s third term bid despite the fact that the Senate’s configuration is not in his favour. Mark has a solid war chest to sway senators to his side if APC fails to manage the situation. Lawan’s supporters believe he is the only one with a clean record among the contestants for the Senate President. Saraki and Akume have pending corruption cases. But an aide of Saraki told Sunday Telegraph that nothing would stand in the way of the former governor. “Senator Saraki has made enough sacrifice for the APC

and he is eminently qualified for the senate president. “As of today, he has not been indicted for any corrupt practice. So, those playing up the corruption card should know that they cannot smear his character in the quest for the Senate leadership. “But I can tell you that Senator Saraki has shown interest in the Senate Presidency. He has been holding

consultations with party leaders, stakeholders and his colleagues across party lines on how to realise his ambition. So, we are waiting for the position of the party leadership on the zoning of the National Assembly position for us to decide on the next line of action.” It was learnt that the leadership of the APC would also deliberate on how to

handle the fallout of the National Assembly contest. “We are worried about the aftermath of zoning the Senate Presidency to the North-East. We want to carefully work on ways to manage the effect especially from Senators Saraki and Akume,” a source said. The challenge is that if the Senate Presidency goes to the North-East, it means the

North-Central has lost out because the only office that the zone might have is either Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives or Majority Leader of the Senate. This may not be enough to placate the North-Central, Akume, Saraki and the Amaechi camp. The Rivers governor is still embittered that his camp lost the vice presidency.

L-R: Akwa Ibom Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Godwin Ntukedeh; Governor Godswill Akpabio and President, Akwa Progressive Commercial Taxi Tricycle and Motorcycles Association, Comrade Udo Johnson, during the donation of 70 new Nissan buses to tricycle operators, in Akwa Ibom...yesterday

Nigerians mobilise for boycott of S’African businesses Onyekachi Eze Abuja

igerians yesterday began mobilizing for a total boycott of South African businesses operating in the country. This was in the wake of deadly xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have claimed some lives and led to the looting and destruction of businesses owned by Africans. The campaigns were launched by different groups and individuals on social media, even as they expressed outrage at the attacks. Some respondents said on social media that they had decided to suspend their patronage of South African businesses and products until the attacks end. However, our correspondents’ visits to some South African businesses in Lagos and Abuja showed that the campaigns did not significantly affect patronage. No official of the businesses was willing to speak to our correspondents. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party yesterday described as provocative

and completely unacceptable the xenophobic attack on Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, said in a statement that the attacks were “outrightly barbaric, primitive and cannot be justified under any guise whatsoever.” The party said it was “unfortunate and disheartening that South Africans by this attitude have shown that they are not appreciative of the roles played by Nigeria and other African countries in liberating their nation from the clutches of the obnoxious apartheid system. “While we are aware that this unfortunate incident is a fallout of incendiary utterances by certain leaders in South Africa, we call on the ruling African National Congress and South African government to take urgent practical steps to stem the tide and guarantee the safety of lives and property of Nigerians and other nationals targeted by the xenophobes. “All well-meaning world leaders especially Africans

should stand up and condemn this dangerous trend, which is a clear threat to the much desired unity, cooperativeness and development in the continent. “We recall that this disgraceful act had taken place in recent time in the same country. As such, we charge South African leaders to do everything humanly possible to halt this wickedness and forestall a repeat in the future. “Africans and indeed all citizens of the world must be allowed to visit, live or work in any part of the continent without fear of attack as long as they meet local statutory requirements of the country of their sojourn.” While calling on the Federal Government to take immediate action to ensure the safety of lives and property of Nigerians in South Africa, PDP appealed for calm and restraint at home even in the face of an obvious provocation that is capable of sparking off a reprisal. It said the Federal Government should draw the attention of South Africa to the danger the actions of its

citizens portend, given the fact that the world has become a global village where political and economic interests have become universal. South African President Jacob Zuma yesterday cancelled a state visit to Indonesia to deal with the wave of anti-immigrant violence at home. The unrest which began in the port city Durban two weeks ago and spread to Johannesburg, Africa’s economic hub, appeared to have died down on Saturday as police patrolled trouble spots. Thousands of foreigners have sought refuge in camps set up in Johannesburg and Durban and the governments of Zimbabwe and Malawi began bussing their nationals back home. “The president once again expresses his condemnation of the attacks on foreign nationals and has urged the police to continue working round the clock to protect communities and bring perpetrators to book,” the presidency said in a statement, adding that Zuma would visit a displacement camp on Saturday.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 19 APRIL, 2015

News

Jonathan, Buhari to meet on handover soon

Anule Emmanuel resident Goodluck Jonathan and President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, are expected to meet soon on formalities for the transfer of power by May 29, 2015. Sunday Telegraph learnt that the meeting is meant to ensure a smooth handover. Ahead of the meeting,

whose date has not been fixed, the transition teams of both sides will hold formal discussions and compare notes. The programme for the transition arrangement indicates that all handover notes being prepared by ministries, departments and agencies of government (MDAs) will be handed over to the President-elect or his rep-

resentative at a dinner scheduled for May 28. On May 29, Jonathan is expected to formally hand over to Buhari at an elaborate ceremony at the Eagle Square, Abuja, according to a senior presidential aide yesterday. The aide, who did not want to be named as he was not authorised to speak on the matter, said Jonathan may meet with

Buhari in the next few days. During the meeting, Jonathan and Buhari will also clear the controversy surrounding the May 28 dinner. Buhari’s close aides, who spoke to Sunday Telegraph, said he was not disposed to attending the dinner as he was not comfortable with having to receive handover notes

at such an informal gathering. The aides said Buhari would prefer to a formal ceremony, in line with tradition established by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo when he handed over to Umaru Yar’Adua in 2007. Buhari’s aides insisted that “only the inauguration event presents an opportunity for the outgoing

President to formally present the instrument of authority to his successor in the full glare of members of the public, local and international media, as well as foreign dignitaries.” Some of Jonathan’s close aides are said to have advised him against attending the inauguration ceremony for fear that he may be booed by a section of the crowd.

IMF lauds Nigeria’s response to oil price shock Ayodele Aminu Washington D.C

19b, HFP Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos after the gas explosion…yesterday.

PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

Explosion: Kogi deputy gov’s wife, three others escape death Camillus Nnaji and Tai Anyanwu

ife of the deputy governor of Kogi State, Mrs. Tokunbo Awoniyi, and three other unidentified persons yesterday escaped death after a gas cylinder exploded at 19b HBF way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos. The house, which belongs to Kogi State Deputy Governor, Yomi Awoniyi, collapsed around 7a.m. Public Relations Officer, National Emergency Management Agency South-West Zone, Ibrahim Farinloye, who confirmed the incident to Sunday Telegraph, said rescuers from the agency and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, officials of the Federal Fire Service and sympathisers helped to rescue the victims and rush them to St. Maria Hospital, Yaba for treatment. “A building was affected

at 16b HBF Way, Dolphin Estate, the cause of the collapse has been traced to gas cooker explosion in the house. Three occupants were inside, including the Kogi State deputy governor’s wife at the time and a driver washing a car outside. They were trapped but have been rescued by a combined effort of the police anti-bomb squad from Dolphin Estate, LASEMA, NEMA, fire service and men of disaster management agency,” he said. Sunday Telegraph learnt that there were no casualties while the four rescued persons had been rushed to Ave Maria Hospital, Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos for treatment. A resident, who craved anonymity, told Sunday Telegraph that the explosion spread panic across the highbrow estate as many thought it was a bomb blast. “Thank God it was not a

bomb,” he said. Another eyewitness said that the house has about six flats and that almost all the occupants were still inside at the time it collapsed. A man at the scene of the incident told journalists that he was one of the victims. He, however, declined to explain how it occurred. He said: “I don’t have anything to tell you now. There are people who are investigating what happened. I am waiting to see their report and will advise you to wait until they come out with their report.” For his own part, Head of Operations, LASEMA, Femi Giwa said: “Well, as I told you our assessment is still ongoing. It will be premature to start saying this was what happened. “There are a couple of factors that could have led to this but we will call you as soon as we are done

with our post-disaster assessment and furnish you with adequate information as to what led to the partial collapse. Materials will of course be analysed,” he added. However, a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity told correspondents that an explosion was heard from the building just around the time the incident was reported. According Giwa, Head of Operations, “We got information in respect of a partial collapsed building at No. 19B, HFP Way, Dolphin Estate in Ikoyi at about 7.15 am. “We were able to activate our emergency response team. We have been able to gain access into the building, working in concert with the security personnel on ground to ensure proper security so that people don’t just move into that building unnecessarily and expose themselves to high risk.”

f the eight oil producing countries in subSaharan Africa, Nigeria is the only country that has responded well to the oil shock, Managing Director, International Monetary (IMF) Christine Lagarde, has said. The IMF boss, who said this yesterday at the ongoing 2015 Spring Meetings of the World Bank/IMF while responding to questions from newsmen, said Nigeria had succeeded in putting good fiscal policies in place to guard against the falling oil prices. Among the measures is the devaluation of the naira. Other oil exporting countries in the region are Angola, Cameroun, Chad, Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea and Congo. Oil prices have plunged by more than half since June, curbing revenue and investment plans in Nigeria, which rely on crude proceeds for about 75 per cent of government revenue. Nigeria’s currency, the naira has slumped 18 per cent against the dollar in since June last year to a record low of N200 at the close of business last Friday. Foreign-currency reserves, which the Central Bank of Nigeria uses to defend the naira, have also slumped to $29.514 billion as at the last Monday. Consequently, the Federal Government late last year announced a set of austerity measures to help minimise vulnerability arising from the likely revenue losses from oil exports, raising of interest rates -including reduction in overseas trainings by government officials among others. Oil, which traded at about $62 per barrel last Friday, was as high as $110 up till last June. Meanwhile, Liberia has admitted that it lashed on Nigeria’s success in han-

dling its Ebola crisis to manage its own pandemic. Liberia’s Minister of Finance, Amara Konneh, said this at press conference hosted by African finance ministers. He said the knowledge of how Nigeria rallied to nip the pandemic in its bud from its onset, was helpful to Liberia in dealing with the scourge, which he stressed, has almost brought the country to its knees, economically. Konneh said Nigeria’s contribution and those of other multilateral bodies played vital roles in mitigating the widespread impact of the pandemic, adding that the citizens’ initial resistance and misrepresentation of the measures adopted to contain the Ebola scourge, contributed to the spread and the resilience of the epidemic in the country. He said it took time for the people of Liberia to be reined-in on the need for them to forgo their insistence on performing some rites on loved ones, even at the risks of being infested in the process with the virus. The minister, who laid bare the devastating effect of the pandemic in Liberia, and the other two equally affected nations of Guinea and Sierra Leone, said without mincing words that “Ebola has devastated our economy,” adding that the country’s economic growth has dropped from a height of six per cent to below one percentage point. Konneh, in company of Abdella Kadre Assene, Finance Minister from Central African Republic, Gervais Rakotoarimanana, his counterpart from Madagasca and Aissata Sidibe, who moderated at the session, said the other challenge Liberia faced in the wake of the Ebola outbreak, was funds. As he put, “government revenue had gone down by 25 per cent, so deployment of resources was hindered.”

SUNDAY

The Sunday Magazine SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Furore as PDP gov candidate withdraws transformer gift Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

head of the last presidential and governorship elections, the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Teslim Folarin, made a donation of a transformer to the people of Sabo community in Ibadan. Residents of the community are predominantly Hausa people who settled in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The move to illuminate the area was part of the campaign strategies of the governorship candidate to curry the favour of the people and win their votes. When Folarin lost the election to Governor Abiola Ajimobi, an unpleasant drama was witnessed in the Hausa community. This led to an altercation between him (Folarin) and the people of Sabo. The incident which went viral and dented the image of the former candidate revolved around the same transformer he had earlier donated to the people of the area. The people of the community last Sunday woke up to discover that the transformer was being removed by some aides of the senator. To many people in the community, Folarin was behind the order to remove it, an action they considered as pay back to them for allegedly refusing to vote for him in the April 11 election. Upon sighting the people carting away the transformer, the residents of the community raised the alarm. But it did not deter the senator’s messengers from eventually removing the transformer. Members of the Sabo community instantly stormed the palace of the Sarkin Hausawa, Alhaji Ahmed Dahiru Zungeru, where they expressed their worry. This compelled the monarch to wade into the matter by calling on Folarin’s political loyalist within the community, Alhaji Bashiru Maiborno, for a clarification. It was at that stage that Baiborno made spirited moves to effect a return of the transformer to Sabo community, but his action was rebuffed as the Hausa community vowed not to accept it back from the senator. Stating his defence on behalf of Folarin, who later claimed that he knew nothing about the matter, Maiborno told the people that the transformer was moved to a safer place to protect it from being stolen by hoodlums. He stated that “Senator Folarin is a man of his words and that removing it was not intended to be taken away as a vengeance, as is being insinuated.” Against the backdrop of a rumour that it was members of the community who removed the transformer, some of the residents insisted that Folarin was responsible for the de-

“Since Senator Folarin has a friend among them, he was contacted to assist them, but the transformer he donated to them was a 200KVA type which did not have the capacity like the one the state government provided them before

velopment. They said he took the action when he discovered that he had lost the governorship election. A member of Arewa community, Mr. Lawal Ghali, insisted that it was the governorship candidate of the PDP who ordered his boys to remove it. Another member of the community, Mr. Hasuman Haruna, while also contributing to the issue, said that members of the community couldn’t have removed the transformer because it is useful to them. However, Folarin said in a statement that he never asked anybody to remove the said transformer from Sabo community after he lost the governorship election. He said he learnt of the development in the media, adding that the absence of the transformer was as a result of the conflict between youths of the area and some leaders. When Sunday Telegraph contacted the chairman of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Hon. Irish Lapade, he shed more light on the issue. According to him, the state govern-

Senator Teslim Folarin ment had last year provided a 500 KVA transformer to the people of the area. He noted that during the euphoria of the celebration of the victory of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the transformer was overloaded and it blew up. “Since Senator Folarin has a friend among them, he was contacted to assist them, but the transformer he

donated to them was a 200KVA type which did not have the capacity like the one the state government provided them before. The government quickly took steps to take another 500KVA transformer to the area, and in annoyance the 200KVA one was removed. When the noise over its removal broke out, there was an attempt to return the transformer but the people rejected it,” the council boss explained.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Magazine

Joyful IDPs return as military recaptures N’ East towns Ibrahim Abdul

“G

Yola

od bless the Nigerian troops, soldiers and our local hunters who dedicate their lives for the security of the country so that citizens could sleep with their eyes closed and doors open. “Irrespective of the security level presently, we know we must surely one day, overcome with the help of God and of course our gallant heroes.’’ These were the words of the paramount ruler of Mubi emirate, Alhaji Abubakar Isa Ahmadu, shortly after he was escorted to his palace that was earlier taken by Boko Haram in northern Adamawa State. Before now, there were apprehension and uncertainty as dreaded Boko Haram members continued to unleash terror on the people. They annexed territories in the northern parts of Adamawa State, capturing at least seven local government areas. They even established their administrative headquarters in the captured commercial town of Mubi, which they later renamed to ‘Madinatul Islam,’ meaning the city of Islam. All these have now became a history, as residents begun to return in their recaptured towns and villages, following offensive raids and reinvigorated antiinsurgency campaign by the Nigerian troops in the last few days. Sources say that no fewer than 30 towns in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states have been reclaimed from Boko Haram. The towns, which include Gabchari, Abba Jabari, Gajigana, Gajiram, Damakar, Kumaliwa, Bosso, Wanti, Jeram and Karisungul, were all recaptured from the insurgents who were forced to flee. The other towns are Hong, Mubi North/ South, Maiha, Michika, Shuwa, Wuro Gyambi, Gombi, Vimtim, Uba and Bazza, all in Adamawa State; Mafa, Gamboru- Ngala, Malam-Fatori, Abadam, Marte, Monguno and Baga in Borno State; as well as Gujba and Gulani in Yobe State, that had earlier been liberated. Despite the successes recorded against the insurgents, Boko Haram are still launching pocket of attacks particularly in the remote villages where there is no presence of soldiers. Boko Haram on the run In most of the recaptured towns visited by Sunday Telegraph, residents were seen in a joyful mood. On the other side, the soldiers revved up their battle against the sect, displacing the insurgents from key Adamawa and Borno towns they overran and seized in the past months. “The military appears to be better equipped and motivated, and appears to have upped its war games,” said Dr. Aliyu Tilde, usually critical of the military’s response to Boko Haram, said in an interview. However, in what appears as a renewed bid to overwhelm the terrorists, the military, assisted by local vigilantes, known as Civilian-JTF, has cleared almost all the towns ravaged by insurgent activities in Adamawa. From Gombi down to Gulak, the roads were cleared, with the insurgents running away though many others were killed in fierce battles. Only the burnt carcasses of their vehicles and bikes

Some of the returnees

The military appears to be better equipped and motivated, and appears to have upped its war games,” said Dr. Aliyu Tilde, usually critical of the military’s response to Boko Haram, said in an interview were visible. So many bullet shells of different sizes littered the roads. There were also signs of shelling of trees and houses. “Gaskiya (truth be told), the Nigerian military is doing a very very fine job here. They have cleared Gombi, Hong, Mararraba, Maiha,Mubi and the entire routes of Boko Haram. “They are now at Michika, slugging it out with Boko Haram. Vehicles aren’t allowed beyond Mubi, because the road is quiet. Clearing of hazardous materials like IEDs going on before the road will be open to users,’’ Baba Musa, a Mubi resident, confirmed.

Also speaking, a retired soldier, Sgt. Garba Buba, said that, “The military is now better equipped and more confident. Its newly acquired T72 tank is devastating. Boko Haram is becoming demystified gradually, it seems. “There seems to be some change in the composition of the soldiers here. Most of them are 30 and above, truly professionals. The incidences of begging for tips from motorists have also reduced drastically. “We just hope they have made adequate safety arrangements for keeping the liberated towns safe.” Mubi monarch urges displaced persons to return home Life is gradually returning to Mubi, and other recaptured and Economic and social activities are beginning to pick up in some areas, though there are some residents that have yet to return. Spurred by this development, the Mubi emir praised the Federal Government for the restoration of security in his domain and called on his subjects that were displaced by the insurgency to return home. This is even as the National Emergency Management Agency continues to assess damaged communities including Mubi. Speaking in his palace when he re-

ceived a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister of Youths Development, Mr. Boni Haruna, the emir advised his people to be vigilant and law abiding and assist the government towards the maintenance of security in the area. He urged returning residents to give all the necessary cooperation to (NEMA) assessment team as they go round to conduct assessment. He thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for his concern about the condition of the displaced people and his assurances of support to assist them to return to normal life. Haruna said his visit in company with the NEMA team was to assess the return of peace in the area and to convey the President’s assurances to support the returnees through the agency to settle back in their homes. The minister said the commander of the army battalion based in Mubi had given the assurance that the soldiers had cleared the town and made it safe for law abiding citizens to return to their homes. The leader of the NEMA assessment team, Musa Zakari, said the DirectorGeneral, Muhammad Sani Sidi, had directed them to carry out the assessment for the immediate deployment of necessary support for the returnees to start rebuilding their lives. The assessment team met with a returnee, Mr. Bitrus Yohanna, and his family of 10. They returned after several months of displacement. Yohanna thanked the Federal Government and the military for the restoration of security in the area. He as well as other formerly displaced persons now back and trading in Mubi Market, called on other displaced persons still taking refuge elsewhere to return home. The team has visited Hong, Maiha, Uba, Mubi and Gombi local government areas. Haruna and the NEMA officials also visited Mubi market, where business activities have picked up, and other places such as the Adamawa State University and State General Hospital.

News Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

eace may well be in sight in Ekiti State after many months of face-off and grandstanding by the state Governor Ayodele Fayose and the All Progressives Congress dominated lawmakers as the leaders of the warring parties yesterday expressed willingness to bury the hatchets. Governor Fayose, who spoke at a special prayer session organised for him by the Ansarudeen Mosque, Atikankan in Ado-Ekiti to celebrate his recent legal victory at the Supreme Court, said he was not opposed to whatever political solution that could end the imbro-

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Fayose, pro-impeachment lawmakers ready for dialogue glio, as long as the warring APC lawmakers also embraced such idea. “Anything that can bring peace cannot be wished away. For me, I’m ready to accommodate everybody. Whatever they want we can sit down and talk. There is no perfect man. They should allow peace to reign. All I want is peace that will engender development,” he said. The leader of the APC

lawmakers, Dr. Adewale Omirin, who spoke on the telephone also expressed readiness to dialogue with the governor, even as he blamed him for fomenting trouble and causing crisis in the state. “We are ready too for dialogue, if he is ready to toe the path of peace. He is the one causing trouble. He is the one that has brought inconvenience to us and our families. He has stopped

our salaries and other entitlements. It is not that we don’t want to work with him, but he is the one refusing to allow peace to reign in the state,” Omirin said in his reaction. However, Fayose said several calls and appeals for amicable solution to the lingering crisis by eminent leaders, religious leaders as well as traditional rulers, informed his latest stance.

This development came just as he apologised to anyone that he might have offended in one way or another, in the course of carrying out his duties as governor. He called for forgiveness for any wrong doing on his part, urging them to forget the past, because he is not perfect. Fayose regretted that the activities of the 19 APC lawmakers had taken a huge toll on legitimate businesses of innocent people of the state, with one life lost in the process. Fayose said: “If they say someone has enemies, I’m number in the world. But God has been merciful and has been helping me to overcome my challenges. “I need your prayers because it will strengthen me more. I’m here in the mosque to thank God. All I want is peace. I have a constitutionally guaranteed tenure. A governor is judged by his achievements in office. All I’m interested in is to bring development to

my people. My opponents know if I have a rest of mind I will achieve my objectives. “All, those I have offended should forgive me for the sake of masses and orphans. They should know people gave me the mandate. Nobody is above mistake; they should forgive me. “A lot of our people before the judgment had been under palpable fear of the unknown. We are here to thank God and pray for peace. I’m appealing to them to please allow peace to reign,” Fayose said. Earlier before leading the prayers for the governor, the State Missioner of the Ansarudeen Movement, Alhaji Liadi Adebayo, called on Fayose and the APC lawmakers to bury the hatchets. He canvassed peaceful co-existence of the entire people of Ekiti State, irrespective of their political differences, and urged residents to live together in harmony as politics was not supposed to be a do-or-die affair.

Ezekwesili: I ‘m delighted by TIME’s nomination

L-R: Glory Ikpang; Executive Director, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities, Comrade David Anyaele; Comrade Nelson Nwafor of the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development and Leonard Onyemesiri of the Justice Development Peace and Commission, during a press conference on the conduct of the 2015 governorship election, in Lagos…on Friday

American varsity to review Buhari’s policy plans

he American University of Nigeria, Monday, will host the Managing Director of Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke, at an interactive session involving students, faculty, and staff regarding proposed new policies outlined by in-coming Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. The university said in a statement yesterday that it would share the outcome of the review session with representatives of the new government. AUN President Margee Ensign, announcing the proposed talk in Yola, described it as “a wonderful opportunity to have some input on new policies and programs”. The main working document for the talk will be “Roadmap to a New Nigeria”, the manifesto of the All Progressives Congress, the new coalition party which swept the most recent national elections in Nigeria. With investment banking experience spanning 22 years, Mr. Chioke–who holds a B.Sc. Civil Engineer-

ing (First Class Honors) from the University of Ife, and an MPhil in Management Studies from Oxford University where he was a Rhodes Scholar–will bring his deep knowledge of the workings of the Nigerian economy to an analysis of policy alternatives and the challenges facing Nigeria’s new President. The American University of Nigeria has also announced that the 2015 Commencement Speaker will be Vicky Colbert, a woman

who has revolutionized education in the developing world. In announcing the selection of Ms. Colbert, AUN President Ensign said: “We are all so happy that an educator as internationally known and distinguished has found the time to visit us. As Africa’s first ‘development university’, we are anxious to hear of her wonderful experiences in the developing world, where her work has brought education and hope to so many

millions of children across the globe.” Primary education is much on the minds of many at AUN, which is currently striving with its local community to feed and educate hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing Boko Haram to the north. Yola is currently home to 400,000 such displaced persons, over 200,000 of them children, who are mostly out of school and who do not have the resources for basic education.

PPA candidate calls for re-run in Umuahia Central Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

andidate of the Progressive Peoples Alliance in Umuahia Central State constituency in the April 11 governorship and House of Assembly elections in Abia State, Chief Chidi Ufomadu, has called on the Independent National electoral Commission to include his constituency in the re-run election scheduled for April 25, alleging that the election

there was characterised by violence, ballot box snatching, relocation of polling units to private homes and use of fake result sheets. He cited instances of malpractice at some of the polling centers including Ugba Community Primary School, where he alleged that a senior civil servant stormed the venue with armed thugs, assisted by some security agents carted away the ballot boxes and other materials and moved

INEC ad hoc staff to his private home where the ballot papers were thumb-printed. Ufomadu told journalists in Umuahia yesterday that similar irregularity also took place at polling Unit 007 at Agbo village, which led to the boycott of the election in the area. The PPA candidate further alleged that the state governor went round the constituency with some people gathering all the electoral materials and disappeared to write election results.

ormer World Bank Vice President, current Senior Economic Adviser with the Africa Economic Development Policy Initiative Obiageli Katryn Ezekwesili, has expressed her delight over her nomination as one of the Time 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2015. Ezekwesili, a leading voice on the global #BringBackOurGirls campaign, is honoured alongside Nigeria’s President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari and award-winning novelist, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, said she was one of the voices advancing the course of the girls. Now in its 12th year, The Time 100 is “an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, spanning politics, entertainment, business, technology, science, religion and other fields,” according to Time.com. “The Time 100 is a list of the world’s most influential men and women not its most powerful,” said Nancy Gibbs, Editor of Time while speaking about the select 100. “As much as this exercise chronicles the achievements of the past year, we also focus on figures whose influence is likely to grow, so we can look around the corner to see what is coming.” “I frankly have never been a fan of these awards. I am, however, delighted to be

on the Time100 list for the sake of our continuing and persistent campaign for our government to rescue our abducted 219 Chibok Girls” said Ezekwesili who had earlier this year been named Nigeria’s ‘Citizen-in-Chief’ by YNaija.com. “The girls are a symbol of thousands more women and children that have been displaced and kidnapped, and I dedicate this recognition to all of them. I am just one out of the many untiring voices that make up our #BringBackOurGirls Family especially here in Nigeria and all over the world. We shall not stop standing and demanding until justice is done our ChibokGirls -- they must be rescued”. In 2006, Ezekwesili was reported to have been the first woman to receive the third highest Nigerian National Honor of Commander of the Federal Republic--CFR. Oby Ezekwesili, as she is fondly called, was at different times Minister of Minerals and Minister of Education under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s second term. She is a past Vice-President of the World Bank where she delivered economic policy advisory, worth over $40Billion in finance and as well as convening partnerships for 46 African countries in support of their economic and social development programs.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

News Cheke Emmanuel LAFIA

asarawa State Police Command on Saturday arrested 10 political thugs suspected to be members of the All Progressives Congress and recovered seven AK47 rifles at Anwgan Mangu polling unit in Chiroma Ward during the rescheduled re-run election for Lafia/Obi Federal constituency in the state. Eye Witness account said the incident happened when a boy who came with a female Permanent Voter Card from a different polling unit was caught trying to cast his vote and security men at the polling unit were immediately called to address the situation.. Immediately, the security men were invited, the thugs swooped on the unit, shooting sporadically in the air to scare voters away but the swift intervention of military saved

Police arrest 10 thugs, recover 7 rifles in Nasarawa

the situation. Another witness said: “When the voting commenced, we saw some groups of thugs invading our polling unit and started embarrassing us. The police came in a Hilux van and arrested five of the them. They were taken to the State Criminal Investigations Department. Sunday Telegraph learnt when the security men intercepted three cars belong to the thugs with election stickers, they discovered seven AK-47 rifles in the vehicles with registration number AL 953 LFA, a red Honda car, and a Galaxy Seinna with registration number AKW 36 XA.

The military men also apprehended thugs wielding AK-47 in another Peugeot 406 car with registration number AJ 986 LFA and took them to the State Criminal Investigation Department. One of the suspects escaped with bullet wounds. A soldier who did want his name in print told our correspondent that the thugs engaged them in a physical combat during the invasion of Anwagn Mangu poling unit. Efforts by our correspondent to reach the Police Public Relation Officer, Nasarawa State Command, ASP, Mr. Ismaila Numan for comments proved abortive as he failed to pick his calls.

Man jailed over multiple PVCs Mohammed Kawu Bauchi

25-year-old man, Ya’u Isma’ila, 25 has been sentenced to six months imprisonment by Yelwa Magistrate Court 12 in Bauchi State for acquiring multiple permanent voter’s cards. Isma’ila, a resident of Tsohuwar Makabarta of Jahun quarters in Bauchi metropolis was convicted for getting three PVCs with different names but his picture was on all PVCs in his possession. The cards bore the names Ya’u Ismail, Koyabi Kela

Bason, and Ismail Koyabi, registered at Fadan Bayak, Jahun, and Jaja quarters of the metropolis, all bearing the photographs of Ismail. The accused has pleaded guilty to the offence, which the prosecutor, said was contrary to Section 120 (c) (d) of the Electoral Acts 2010 as amended. The first information report indicates that Ya’u Isma’ila on March 28, 2015 at 12pm was apprehended at a stop and search military checkpoint at Rafin Makaranta along Ningi Road. He was arrested with three PVCs bearing three differ-

ent names. Magistrate Kasimu M. Mohammed in his ruling has upon the admission of guilt by the accused sentenced him to six months imprisonment with an option of N1000 fine. Magistrate said: “Upon the facts before this court and the nature of the offence, the voluntary admission of guilt by the accused, I can only be lenient to you since you admit guilt instantly without wasting the energy of this court; the accused is sentenced to six months in jail or an option of N100,000 fine.”

Gunmen abduct Rivers LG boss Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

unmen have abducted the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, Cassidy Ikegbidi, a staunch ally of Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. Ikegbidi, who has been visible in government since Amaechi became governor, had earlier served as council boss of the area, but was re-

appointed by the governor. Sources say that Ikegbidi was kidnapped at the council headquarters two days ago by the gunmen, who dressed in military outfit. They had stormed the council secretariat in a bus. The hoodlums went straight to his office, sources added, and exchanged gunfire with some with some security operatives in the council before finally getting their target. One of the sources said that

after picking him up and hurried out of the place in a get-away bus, which they later abandoned and escaped through the waterfront. The State Police Command’s spokesman, Ahma Muhammad, who confirmed the incident, said the police had taken some steps to ensure his release. He said: “The Command is aware of the incident involving the CTC chairman. Action has been placed to safely rescue him”.

issued by the leadership of the body after a meeting in Abuja, the National President of the group, Pastor Reuben Clifford Wilson, called on all militants to support the incoming administration of Buhari for him to be able to exercise the mandate given to him by Nigerians effectively. The leadership of the body also warned that the peace of the region would

amnesty programme is neglected or abandoned. It also lauded President Goodluck Jonathan for his good leadership strides in ensuring peace in the country before and after the elections, reassuring him of their support at all times. It blamed the President’s loss to Buhari on a “conspiracy of the South-West and North against the South-South and South-East.”

Two of the cars recovered from the thugs in Nasarawa State yesterday

4 die as fire guts bus in Lagos Muritala Ayinla

ragedy struck yesterday afternoon in Lagos as a commercial bus burst into flames killing five passengers and severely injured five others. According to the witnesses, the fatal accident occurred as a of overspending of the commercial bus driver, who was said to be de-

x-Niger Delta militant leaders under the aegis of Leadership, Peace and Cultural Development Initiative have congratulated the Presidentelect, Gen. Muhammadu Bubari (retd) for his victory in the just-concluded presidential election and urged him to sustain the amnesty programme.

confirmed the incident, said the rescued passengers had been taken to the hospital. “The bus was coming from Eko Bridge and was heading to Costain when it rammed into the culvert and somersaulted before it eventually burst into flame. Unfortunately four lives were lost and 5 rescued in the incident,” Fadipe said.

How I escaped being lynched, Ex- Rep Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

supporting the All ProEx- militants want amnesty programme sustained Forgressives Congress and In a statement which was be adversely affected if the his loyalty to the Alaafin of Chris Ejim Yenagoa

scending from Eko Bridge inward Costain area when it rammed into a culvert and somersaulted before it burst into flame. Five passengers were quickly rescued while the remaining four could not be saved before the bus burst into fire. Director of the State Fire Service, Rasak Fadipe, who

Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi, III, a former House of Representatives indigene of Oyo town, Akinrogun Segun Taiwo, was nearly killed last week Saturday by some assailants. Speaking with Sunday Telegraph on the phone yesterday evening, the exlawmaker alleged that his assailants were members of the Labour Party in the ancient town, who wanted to

kill him because he supported the APC which secured the second term ticket for Governor Abiola Ajimobi in the April 11 election. Taiwo, a former journalist and indigene of Isle Oyo, said that he had just been discharged from hospital after the horrible encounter. Narrating the incident, Taiwo said: “I was in my vehicle heading to the collation centre located at L.A. Primary School, Sabo, after the conclusion of the House of Assembly election. On getting to Oloko-nla area at Isale-Oyo, I saw some youths who were mem-

bers of the Labour Party, gathered together and were shouting, thief, thief on me. “I decided to stay rather than run away since I neither did no harm to anyone nor meant evil. Before I alighted from the vehicle, they started hurling stones at me. I had no option than to take to my heels so as to save my life.’’, he said with quivered voice. While running away after abandoning his vehicle, Taiwo said, his attackers increased in number, carrying dangerous weapons such guns, cutlasses, bottles and axes.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

OPINION The many sins of MultiChoice

Uriah Asemota

y first experience of DStv was in 1996, some three years after MultiChoice arrived Nigeria with its pay-TV offering. It was during that year’s Olympic Games, hosted by Atlanta. My family had just moved to a new house and our next door neighbour was a DStv subscriber. In actuality, he was the only one who owned a satellite dish on the entire street at that time. To welcome us to the neighbourhood, our new neighbour invited us over to watch Nigeria play Argentina in the final match of the football event at the Olympics. It is an experience that still remains fresh in my memory, principally because the picture quality was nothing like I had ever seen before. For a man who had watched much of the games (and, indeed television on good old NTA), seeing the vast difference in picture quality raised my excitement. And to crown an already pleasant evening, Nigeria’s U-23 team (aka Dream Team) defeated Argentina to win the gold medal. Nigerians of my generation were raised on a television diet served by the national broadcaster. The national broadcaster opened at 4pm and closed at 10pm on weekdays. On weekends, it opened by noon. Then it got better with arrival of stateowned stations, as we began watching right up to midnight daily. Then came the fascinating experience of a 24-hour television service. The launch of DStv in the 90s totally changed the way we watch television. Ideally, being the first to launch a new service in an emerging market or creating a new market altogether should be celebrated. But for some obscure reasons, this is regarded as one of many sins of MultiChoice. Subscribers and competitors seem united in anger against MultiChoice for pioneering pay-TV and keeping it alive and well for over two decades on an extremely difficult terrain. MultiChoice, without fail, is blamed for the failure of its competitors. Editorials, as a rule, accuse MultiChoice of “killing com-

petition” simply because the company continues evolving and innovating. When it is not been accused of killing competition, it is branded a monopoly. But neither is correct. There were and there still are competitors to MultiChoice. What it has succeeded in doing is staying far ahead of the pack that competitors actually require binoculars to see it. This has happened through its acquisition of the most exciting content and innovation, something for which it paid enormous sums. Even when it lost the rights to broadcast some football content a few years ago, it still remained ahead of the pack. The rival that won the bid, as we all know, is no longer in existence. Its inability to pay the amount required to retain the rights to the content, after initially overbidding to acquire it, not MultiChoice, was responsible for its demise. This narrative is well known, but it is omitted because critics find it a useful ammo in their war against the industry leader. From the days of the huge satellite dishes, which cost over a N100,000 in the 90s, MultiChoice has upgraded its technology to make the DStv service more accessible to the average Nigerian. Because of these new technologies, the DStv dish is more compact, while acquisition, and installation costs are lower. Today, DStv is widespread with a complete set comprising a dish and decoder costing less than N20,000. Despite these improvements, Nigerians are quick to highlight every hitch experienced with the DStv service. But is there a technology that doesn’t have shortcomings? Way back, I used to get angry when I experienced signal degeneration or service interruption whenever it rained. It was not until when I experienced same in the US a few years ago that I realised that the problem is not exclusive to DStv. One day in New York, I was indoors watching the news when a raging storm broke. To my surprise, a message similar to what appears on DStv popped-up on the TV screen, and it went blank. That incident compelled me to read up about the occurrence on the internet. The loss of signals when it rains is techni-

cally known as “rain fade”. Rain fade is a universal problem, but more prevalent in certain climatic conditions. It occurs when the sky is overcast during rainfall or when it snows. It does not need to be raining at a location for the service to be affected by rain fade, as signals travel many miles from the satellite. Digital satellite television providers which operate on the Ku band (such as DStv) or Ka band are faced with this challenge of rain fade. Contrary to the belief that rain fade is unique to DStv and the result of obsolete technology, the phenomenon also occurs in parts of Asia, Europe, South America and North America. Rain fade may occur less frequently in Europe compared to Africa, as its prevalence is largely due to two factors: differences in rain characteristics in temperate and tropical regions and the quality of your installation. These factors are ignored, often willfully, when the subject is discussed. DStv’s critics prefer the convenient to the factual and have gone out to build-on willful ignorance- a vicious campaign against it. Another sin of MultiChoice appears to be its decision to make huge investments in sports and entertainment. Our love for football, a huge one at that, has grown beyond the national team to affiliation with different European clubs. Through DStv, a bond between us and those clubs has been created and is, of course, sustained by our daily exposure to their games and news about their activities. A modern football fan in Nigeria is either a Gunner or Blue; proudly Red and so forth. This is all due to what DStv has created. MultiChioce’s investments in broadcast rights through the years have been heavy. That is expected, given that nothing good comes cheap. It is also entitled to reap dividends on its investments because businesses are set up to do exactly that. These broadcast rights escalate subscription fees. Recently, Sky and BT acquired the EPL rights for the 2016 to 2019 football season for 5.14billion pounds. That transfer of the additional cost to subscribers has already been announced. The announcement has provoked no class action suit, the type we have seen here.

I have also heard a few people blame MultiChoice for our children’s difficulty with our indigenous languages. An Igbo friend of mine once wrote a letter to an editor complaining of how his children have learnt to speak Yoruba from watching AfricaMagic Yoruba. Having married an Edo woman, it was not feasible for him to speak his language dialect at home. And as is common in many cross-cultural marriages, in which wives and husbands do not understand their respective indigenous languages, my friend’s children are unable to speak Igbo. Curiously, this was blamed on MultiChiocefor not having an Igbo channel. Thankfully, AfricaMagic Igbo channel is now available. But I wonder if it is right to blame a payTV company for our children’s inability to speak our local languages. MultiChoice is also perceived as arrogant and unresponsive to customer complaints. As a small business owner, I understand that poor customer service is a general problem which most service-oriented businesses in Nigeria are contending with. Whenever, I get poor service at a restaurant, bank or from a call centre agent, I have learnt not take it out on the organisation. The reason is not far-fetched. Whether it is a multinational or indigenous establishment, the staff are Nigerians. Sure, there is room for improvement in this area, but it should not be enough to provoke an all-out war against MultiChoice. The lack of parking space and the long queues at MultiChoice branches are simply not acceptable. Rather than breaking MultiChoice down, new indigenous pay-TV operators should step up their game. After all said and done, what makes a premium brand premium? Other than pricing and the tangible worth of the brand, it is quality. It is a consistent show of attention to detail and top-notch service. When one pays for a premium service such as DStv, expectations are high. My view is that to a large extent, the expectations are being met in the quality of programming as well as audio-visual quality. •Asemota, an accountant and businessman, writes from Benin

Open letter to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari Chukwudi Ezenyi

et me join millions of Nigerians and people all over the world to congratulate you on your well deserved victory. Over the years, the Catholic Church has been saying a prayer known as: ‘Prayer for Nigeria in distress’. God in his infinite mercy seems to have been answered the prayer by anointing you as the next Nigerian President. By the grace of God, you will not disappoint people, especially those of us who stuck out our necks campaigning for you in the South-East. Consequently, I would like to offer some pieces of advice in order to help our party, the All Progressives Congress, to also win a landslide nationwide in 2019. On South-East I would like you to surprise us by making sure that an additional state is created for the zone before the end of your first term. This will ensure justice and equity. Currently, it is only the South-East that has just five (5) states. Our people will never forget you if you reverse this injustice. The roads in our zone are in a pitiable condition. Sir, please make sure that at least two major roads such as Enugu- Port Harcourt and Enugu- Onitsha roads are put

in a good condition before the end of your first term. This will send a good message to the good people of the South-East that a messiah has come. Please, look into the cost of the Second Niger Bridge, scale it down where posible and get it done this time around. That will be a good idea. Sir, viable positions should also be given to the South-East in your cabinet. On corruption Your cabinet should consist of men and women of integrity of proven integrity to be formed immediately you are sworn in to develop a blueprint on how your government can fight corruption. Their reports should not take more than six weeks to get to you. This will enable you to fight the issue of corruption squarely. Also, EFCC and ICPC should be empowered and encouraged to carry out their duties without fear or favour. Any case from these agencies should be concluded within six months. The Chief Justice of the Federation should caution lawyers against using frivolous injunctions to delay the conclusion of graft cases. Officials of these agencies must be strictly forbidden from taking bribes to pervert the cause of justice. Cost of campaigns

Sir, something seriously has to be done constitutionally and as soon as possible told drastically reduce the cost of campaign. A situation where a candidate has to spend a minimum of N10 million on campaign is unacceptable. This has discouraged so many men and women of integrity from venturing into politics. In the last Houses of Assembly election, I was reliably informed that a state governor who was bent on getting victory for all his party’s candidates spent about N2 billion of taxpayers’ fund on the venture. This is a mockery of democracy. The money was used for hiring thugs and paying each voter a minimum of N2, 000 to vote for the party’s candidates. In my own humble opinion to reduce the cost, candidates must stop giving out any item of inducement to the electorate except party manifestoes. No caps, no exercise books, no clothes, etc. Clandestine meetings with the electorate for the purpose of canvassing for votes should stop. Let candidates talk to the electorate. Some clerics were allegedly given millions of naira for votes. That is why religion has been mixed with politics in Nigeria. Let’s borrow a leaf from the western world. Recently in Britain, a candidate was accused of inducing voters with sausage rolls. For credible men

and women to join politics, this issue has to be looked into. National Conference Report Some essential recommendations from the past National Conferences should be extracted and implemented through constitutional means. This will help you a lot and Nigerians will see you as the man they have been yearning for. Electricity Please, try to bring back Prof. Barth Nnaji for he did well as minister of power. Other Zones I would like you to set a six-man committee on each zone. Their duty will be to look at their zones and give you the most needed thing(s) for the zone. This assignment will be completed within four years. Conclusion Finally, I would like to wish you all the best and pray that the efforts you make in the next four years will make the 2019 elections an easy ride for our great party, APC. May the Good Lord give you strength. Amen. •Chief (Barr.) L. Chukwudi Ezenyi is a lawyer, retired Assistant Director, Central Bank of Nigeria and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Idemili South LGA, Anambra State.

Sunday Mail APRIL 19, 2015

You have a right to be heard! Send your letters and photographs to sundayletters@newtelegraphonline.com. Letters should not be more than 150 words and must have the name and address of the sender. War against Boko Haram

Dear Editor, The security threats during the election ranked among the reasons why the current government was voted out. Now, when we talk about ineptitude, youth unemployment and corruption, all these have been here with us. I would say that Jonathan inherited them but the level of insecurity in recent time and the inability of the government to do anything about it to assure the people of their safety, was a major factor to reckon with. This is because the foremost duty of a government is to secure the lives and property of the citizenry. This government seemed to have been unable to do that. Any government, which fails to assure its citizenry of the protection of their lives and property, has lost its own head. There is no need keeping such a government in power. All the while, the government didn’t seem to have any answer to Boko Haram. All of the sudden, just few weeks to the presidential election, President Goodluck Jonathan declared that he was going to end the Boko Haram insurgency in six weeks. How was that possible? Mary Ann Ahmed from Anyigba in Kogi State

Why Jonathan lost to Buhari Dear Editor, We were all circumspect when towards the presidential election, it looked like President Goodluck Jonathan suddenly realized what he needed to do to garner millions of votes. Was it that this man had the answer to these all the while but deliberately refused to take any action? In the time of election, he declared war against Boko Haram. Anyway, I must salute President Jonathan for the act of sportsmanship that he displayed. It’s rare for a sitting president to accept defeat even before the final whistle is blown. He accepted defeat and asked his people to calm down. It’s not something that is common in this part of the world. I salute him for that. Makoji Roseline from Idah, Benue State

Political communication

Dear Editor, Against the background of the 2011 elections, I think communication was not well managed; in the sense that the way issues were communicated to the electorate was bad. The perception of people that period was quite different from what we have now. But let’s blame it on political communication. In this case, everybody monitored the election to the end. In 2011, there was nothing like PVCs. The elections were open to manipulation and rigging. The communication that I’m talking about is the perception that we have been rigged out of the victory to the extent that we envisaged that one could predict results of elections even before votes were cast. That was what actually gave the impetus to the violence that erupted in 2011 but this time, people were watching and monitoring everything. They knew the manner and pattern of voting, so voters were convinced in one area or the other that the results that were given out in a particular area were expected. This was unlike in 2011 that was open to rigging and manipulation. Attah Petterson from Abuja

Mbaka and Christianity

Dear Editor, That President Goodluck Jonathan did not win election does not make Rev. Ejike Mbaka a true prophet. Mbaka has made a mockery of Christianity. It’s high time he is disrobed by the Catholic Church for bringing great dishonour to that revered institution. While the true prophets of God are busy edifying people with their prophecies, he is busy inciting them with his false prophecies. Any prophecy that does not edify people is not from God. Mbaka should repent now or face the wrath of God for misleading people. God is watching. Mbaka used to be my idol, but he has derailed from preaching the gospel of Christ and also soiled his priestly robe by delving into dirty politics. I wish he can imitate other Catholic priests who accommodate all and sundry instead of being discriminatory. Tony Onyeweaku from Enugu

Cooking in an unhygenic environment…

Change is here

Dear Editor, It is a pathetic situation to enter a strong man’s house and indulge in a spoiling spree without first of all binding the strongman. The Nigeria we have today could be better than the Nigeria of 2011 when the young and old, rich and poor, Christians and Muslims, northerners and southerners all trooped en masse to deliver the scepter to the strongman only for us to wallow in uncertainty and lucre. But not to worry, hope is imminent, faith is available, our vision is illuminated and we will remain resolute and stand united in the face of vain glory to effect the desired change. Patter Abdul from Lafia

Here comes change!

Dear Editor, The change APC wanted is here finally! In Lagos, the Oba Akiolu called Igbo leaders and threatened that if they went ahead to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate, Jimi Agbaje, on April 11, he would send them to the lagoon and make sure they perish. In Ekiti State, the impeached speaker who is in court challenging his impeachment is back on the orders of Tinubu to impeach the Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose. In the South-East, Senator Chris Ngige has promised to remove all PDP senators before September this year. Now I ask, are these part of the promises Gen. Buhari made to Nigerians? The APC has not even assumed office but their level of impunity has taken over. Why not allow us peace since President Goodluck Jonathan has made a historic sacrifice for all in Nigeria? Well, Buhari has a lot to think and do now. Joseph Udom from Uyo

APC now new PDP

Dear Editor, Without a strong opposition, APC will become another PDP. If I had my way, I would have stopped these defections or insist that you must prove your reason for defecting to the court, then the court will decide whether to grant it or not. Amaechi defected from PDP to APC when APC was still finding its feet. That is good and fine but what is happening now is obviously as a result of the fact that people want to join the winning party without contributing anything to its success. That is not good for our democracy. All PDP members before the presidential election should remain in their party. Where is the change we wish for when we have the same corrupt PDP leaders defecting to another party? Political parties are not our problem but the personalities. Jasmine Okoye from Port Harcourt

PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

Nigeria lacks real political parties

Political parties tend to stay the course; rise and ebb with elections. What happens in Nigeria is Politics of the Purse, whereby players swing from party to party; hedging their bet in order to make sure they are not losing. It is a winner-takesall political environment, so a POLITICAL MOVEMENT. Nigerian politicians don’t run on principles and or values. It’s mostly for convenience and comfort, believing that once in the right party winning an election is guaranteed. Add tribal lines and one is exposed to bunch of sheep looking for a shepherd. Obasanjo did not cause the failure of PDP. Anyone could come up with reasons Jonathan did not win. Assigning Obasanjo the undue power of having derailed PDP is exaggerated. Obasanjo, a fox, probably saw the handwriting on the wall, and wanted to be part and on the side of history. He is an opportunist. Also, if the Igbo saying – ofu onye adi akali oha – a person should not be greater than the community, then giving Obasanjo credit negates the saying. Give Nigerians the credit: They got fed up and fired the/ their president. Going forward, I hope this resonates so anyone accorded the opportunity to serve takes to heart it is an honour and not a hand-up to abuse the people. Nigerians just got wiser and elected to teach PDP party a lesson. Buhari winning was by default because people did not have another compelling choice. Again, if he can bring back the attitude of 1983-85, Nigerians will align and line up. PDP and its Zoologist turned president allowed/encouraged political indiscipline. Nigerians must be commended for standing up against a dysfunctional Jonathan government that was not governing. Jonathan liked being president but lacked the ability to be presidential. His cabinet looked like college faculty – doctors and doctorates, yet as the country got sicker and sickened, he acted like a zoo master – allowing the tamed and untamed animals run afoul of what makes sense. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Diezani Allison-Madueke should have been fired in 2012/2103 when the oil subsidy was a hot matter. Instead, the ladies in council who counselled Jonathan, were allowed to look like untouchables but the economic lifeline depends on oil and the finance ministries. Naira lost more value during Jonathan’s term even as oil price traded in three digits, and even as Jonathan inherited a period Nigeria foreign debts were either forgiven, written down or suspended. Instead, minsters of Finance and Petroleum bungled the situation and Jonathan acting/appearing clueless and ineffectual kept quiet. Ejike Okpa, Dallas, United States

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Moments

L-R: Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner INEC, Dr. Adekunle Ogunmola; National Assembly member elect for Osogbo/Olorunda/Irepodun/Orolu Federal Constituency, Lasun Yusuf and from Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), National Commissioner, Professor Akinola Salawu, during the presentation of certificates of return to Senators-Elect and Federal House of Representatives members-elect, in Osogbo …yesterday

L-R: Country Representative, Action 2015 One Campaign Nigeria Save The Children International, Mr. Edwin Daniel; Lead Consultant, Ojugo Onyelukachukwu; Creative Manager, Nde Ndifonka and Executive Director, Africa, Dr. Sipho Moyo, at the media capacity building and policy forum on the empowerment of Women in Abuja …on Thursday

Managing Director, Toyota (Nigeria) Limited, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo (fourth left); Public Relations Manager, Mrs. Bukki Ogunnusi (second right), with the winners of the 2015 Toyota Dream Car Art Contest, during the presentation of certificates/gifts in Lagos

Adamawa State Governor-elect, Sen. Bindow Jibrilla (left), being presented with Certificate of Return by the National Commissioner of INEC in charge of Adamawa, Gombe and Taraba states, Dr. Nuru Yakubu, in Yola…on Saturday

Chairman, China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), Mr. Cao Baogang (left), receiving the state’s plaque from Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, during his visit to the governor in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta office...on Friday

L-R: Media Consultant, Mr. Gbenga Fatile; Chief Executive Officer, Dayo Consulting, Mr. Dayo Ogunsola and Mr. Monday Feyibunmi, during a press conference on the diversification of economic and investment opportunities in Nigeria held in Lagos…on Thursday

L-R, Managing Director, Niger Delta Power Holding, Engr. James Olotu, Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo; Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam and Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, briefing state house correspondents on the outcome of the last meeting of Niger Delta Holding Company, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja …on Friday. PHOTO;TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN.

L-R: Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Nunayon Amosu; Chief of Naval Staff; Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin; Chief of Army Staff; Lt.-General Kenneth Tobiah Jacob Minimah and Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, during the Security Council meeting, in Abuja…yesterday. PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

News

No hope for Chibok schoolgirls’ rescue – Presidency

FG approves N1.3trn for public universities H

Onwuka Nzeshi Abuja

Dan Atori,

A MINNA

s part of efforts to improve the quality of universities in the country, the Federal Government has made provision for the disbursement of N1.3 trillion to all public universities for six years. President Goodluck Jonathan who disclosed this yesterday said “the sum is designed to improve quality of the universities with particular attention to infrastructural and personnel developments and also to improve teaching and learning facilities. President Jonathan stated this at the 24th Convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, called on the institution to imbibe the culture of peace, harmony, constructive criticism and conflict resolutions in the universities in order to avoid incessant

disruptions of the academic calendar, pointing out that returning to the October-June system will make room for a more productive system. The President, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of the National University Commission, Professor Julius Okojie, said that only good and high standard of education can guarantee a more prosperous Nigeria. He said that his administration has worked towards the expansion of access to higher education to carter for the needs of the large number of students seeking admission into public universities. “Between 2011 and 2013, we established 12 new federal universities in states where they did not previously exist, bringing university education closer to citizens in those states. In the last four years, the synergy between the Federal Government and the pri-

vate sector has yielded formidable results evidenced by the licensing of 16 more private universities which have been properly established and have made good progress.” He further said that the Universities of Technology in the country are expected to play the leading role in proffering solutions to the new challenges of the 21st century, which include global warming and its consequences, food security issues, human security, health and low resource agriculture. He, however, congratulated the graduates for the completion of their programmes in the institution adding that he is confident that they will make pragmatic contributions to the prosperity of the nation. Young minds are the future and hope of every nation and I implore you to apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to move this nation forward.”

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Musbau Akanji said that the graduating students were part of the university major milestones, adding that they were brands that distinguished the institution as a veritable university of technology. He urged them to dream big as the set out in life urging them to use the basic entrepreneurial skills that have been instilled in them. Three thousand, four hundred and ninety students graduated in the 2013/2015 academic session out of which 2,903 bagged first degree, 105 Post Graduate Diplomas, 453 Masters and 29 Doctor of Philosophy graduates. In the First degree category, there are 34 graduates having First Class, 1,190 with Second Class Upper Division, 811 Second Class Lower Division, 1,363 Third Class and 648 Pass.

opes for the rescue of the kidnapped Chibok schoolgirls before the May 29, 2015 handover date were dashed yesterday as presidential aide, Dr. Doyin Okupe, urged Nigerians to prevail on President-elect Muhammadu Buhari to do so. Okupe, who delivered the shocking news in a Facebook post, said not much could be achieved by expecting President Goodluck Jonathan to rescue the girls. Okupe’s declaration runs contrary to a promise by National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.), that there were hopes that the girls would be found and rescued during an ongoing military operation to clear the Sambisa forest of insurgents. The schoolgirls were kidnapped from Government Girls’ Secondary School, Borno State on April 14 by Boko Haram insurgents. girls. Okupe, who alleged that the schoolgirls were kidnapped over a year ago to make President Goodluck Jonathan look incompetent, said the outgoing president would address the issue in his handover notes to Buhari. He also said the Bring Back Our Girls Movement was set up to “internationalise the embarrassment.” The post reads: “One of the reasons the Chibok girls were kidnapped was to present Jonathan’s administration as incompetent and hold it to ransom against 2015 elections.

“One of the reasons the BBOG was formed was to sustain and internationalise the embarrassment. “One of the reasons President Jonathan lost the election was a national and international conspiracy predicated on this carefully choreographed and assiduously sustained perception. “One of the issues that will be in the hand over notes will be the missing girls. “What is reasonable and expedient for well meaning men and women of good conscience is to dialogue with the incoming administration on what best new approach to employ to find and rescue the Chibok girls. ”Not much can be achieved, except mischief, by continuing to flog this administration on this matter.” The post immediately drew outrage, with many commentators hurling expletives at the Jonathan administration. When Sunday Telegraph contacted the leader of BBOG, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, on the phone, she declined to comment the moment she realised that it was in respect of Okupe’s comments. Her instant response ran thus: “No! No! No! Young man, don’t even go further. I am not reacting to anything Dr. Doyin Okupe says. I don’t just care. Thank You.” National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, neither picked his call nor responded to a text message seeking his comments on the issue.

Ortom promises credible LGpolls B Senator-elect for Adamawa North Mrs. Binta Garba (left), being presented with a Certificate of Return by the National Commissioner of INEC in charge of Adamawa, Gombe and Taraba states, Dr. Nuru Yakubu, in Yola…yesterday

Police foil robbery, cult attack in Delta Dominic Adewole ASABA

patrol team of the Delta State Police Command yesterday foiled an attack planned by a fourman robbery gang at Eboh Link Road, Okumagba Layout in Warri. Sunday Telegraph learnt that the gang made up of young men, wore long caps and drove a black Mazda car, they had allegedly plotted to raid residents of the area before the police team became suspicious of

their movement. When the patrol team tried to confront the Mazda car, the driver, in desperation rammed into the police patrol van and zoomed off. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Celestina Kalu, said at the command headquarters in Asaba yesterday that the hoodlums thereafter fled. She said: “The patrol team pursued them to the Third Marine Gate, Warri, where the suspects abandoned

the Mazda car with registration number WWR 909 AA, engine number NILDFG 11 and chassis number JMIBK32F871700231 and fled. “When the abandoned vehicle was searched,” Kalu said, “one automatic MOSSBERG Pump Action gun loaded with seven live cartridges was recovered.” While she said efforts have been intensified to track down the fleeing miscreants, she also narrated how a combined team of police detectives

from Agbarho Division and vigilance men raided some parts of the town of which were notorious for cult activities. The police spokesperson said it was in a bid to check incessant cult related crimes in Agbarho town. “One Ogheneochuko Belore, a 25 year old boy and one Precious Johnbull, 19yrs, residing at Ovarian Road, Aladja were arrested and one locally made pistol with one live cartridge was allegedly recovered from them,” she said.

enue State Governorelect, Dr. Samuel Ortom has promised that his administration would conduct credible local government elections when he takes over the mantle of leadership in the state. He made the promise while addressing a delegation of the Nongov community resident in Makurdi who paid him a congratulatory visit at his Judges Quarters residence. Dr. Ortom hails from Nzorov which is part of the community in Guma Local Government Area. He decried a situation where the party that controlled the state always ensured that it won 100 per cent at local government elections and pledged that his administration would allow the people to choose grassroots leaders of their choice through credible, free and fair polls. The former Minister of State, Industry, Trade, and Investment, stated that it was incumbent on the All Progressives Congress lead-

ers particularly governors who emerged through credible polls to replicate what the Independent National Electoral Commission had achieved nationwide at the state level. He assured that although the challenges confronting the state were frightening they could be surmounted through collective efforts and creative thinking as well as deployment of international best practices. Earlier, President of the Nongov Community Development Association, Makurdi Branch, Chief Samuel Aga, had said that members had come to felicitate with one of their own on his emergence as governor of the state. Chief Aga expressed gratitude to God and the people of the state for the development and also lauded Dr Ortom for his doggedness in pursuing the realisation of his aspiration. He enjoined the governor-elect not to let the people of the state down.

SUNDAY

Fashion

Pregnant but sexy! 22&43

Bed, Work & Life

The joy of a newborn 20

Body Soul SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

I regret raising my child without a father - Monalisa Chinda

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

eart h y m m o r f t Straigh

over aram, abductedBorno H 49 o ok B , p ou , Pg. e terror gr ), Chibok th SS at G th (G l in t oo ed h the news filternment Girls Secondary Sc ducted girls. Even Presiden ge joke when ere really s of the ab (2) t was like a hurls from their school, Gover e pt the familie me obvious that the girls wpen. ce juice & Din ex t, gi l rs fi oo h at pple Wine sc ca ap ed A h be : ev 200 ’t it li r n n be id e he e d l l ki ially. W wish it s, no on Toxin State. Perhap than expressed doubt initial, tried to wish it away. I ture through educafu na r en Jo ei d th ck lf lu se er d tt Goo ent of t to be at they sough y of us, in mom taken A missing, man s whose only crime was th rls forcefully mbisa gi of r rl be gi m 0 u n the in Sa Over 20 captivity? argument over ere quartered tion taken intos began. There was a huge came deafening. They w sack the whole man-made Then the tale over their whereabout beJoint task force wouldn’t brave all odds and go look away. The din rd. We wondered why the me parents threatened to e the incident Forest, we hea our girls, especially as so forest. alad d to investigat o’ cry. l’ ee ie vi fr tr , ‘e d e an reen s an h th st at g in n re od Jo rs fo h G te ce t n is gh i e ie au at er d h P e ous ved w rmer Direcow famous ‘T for their preci en First Lady, our dear Dam ab ser fort was her n notable among them, a fo Ezekwesili, r ef ck er C ri h st of ft ie ou gr s, t by A p way, all we go Unit), Mrs. O uals and grou t to in her special me well meaning individ ce Unit (aka Due Process r the Federal Governmen ng M si n so fo is ge m ed li e te sh th u In g p in ce Of course, ey art from keep udget and Pri cted girls. Th tor General B h the families of the abdugbackourgirls. However, ap it the girls identified w possible in order to #brin they achieved little else. assured us that an th na , ng ave reJo ld hi or ck yt ld w do ever t Goodlu s of the ctors wou h ple. As en es u d d sn si u ab re io r P r sc ei n ea th , d co s of peo en killed tions, our girls in the ar in the mind hechibokgirls? if they had be e general elec et Just before th How did he know? Well, ional trauma and instill fe ar re he ains, #w ot e. Pg. 50 were still aliv ictures to further cause em raw. Now the question rem ay. e th in st p aw gh r n at u ei th ke ro th p at g th lly ta leased would be goin und, I also gras s were forcefu tivity Crea lub harsh as that soyear since the Chibok girler I think of the ordeal theythat many of their family n Art C re e ct ev d on fa en il e h er en h th w w C fe of es , e h k It’s be h ac ow in g T rt eh th I m ea s. So hen, do T My h otional wreckare. He who wears r abductors. T re e dy g hands of thei ld have been reduced to em ts e en ar p h r ei T t th members wou ing about them today. Bu say. take the lk e ta to ar e d sh I ar u , p le es p al ch n eo p s where it pin mmenced a fi rmountthe shoe knowo, the Nigerian military cosa Forest! So Sambisa is su that our d bi ag ents -Sam as reporte Few days almost ere when it w d of the insurg last stronghol Why didn’t they go in th there? Why did it take them deral Fe e d l? th able after al ol children were quartere The same reason it took - before it O s ? ho on st sc ti re ec nt ade fo eral el innoce o! ent of the gen m that man m le puzz a year to storyears - and the postponem e terror group? There’s God word to shout, Cross ce n t th ie h en sc it m n w co y h el it iv Govern w is le ec her peop ld deal d decided it couthe Chibok families and ot in jo I , Today rgirls! #Bringbackou

&Sou Body

nderjuice has wo skin apple juice for d eApple antages ely use , esp for adv cancer vois wid s and cer. Fla ds ful hair. It remedies es tumourlung can lic aci e and ted issu , ural eno in nat g skin rela , itching . cially and ph be effectiv ds to er of treatin ammationwrinkles develnoi mb ven the pro a nu luding ting r and like infld skin and hea ional s offer inc . are preven tumou nutrit still cracke Apple nutrients boron etc of for lth The is call theis le e nt to hea m. to ls. n, e me juic lthy en for es eye A in appeye we like at home r- hea in C, irots combin re op cerous cel raw of apple en tak t e am what ImprovVitamin ation can rove value timum whvided tham ing apple juic avail you - Vit se nutrien e structu yode to imp ts disorconstipa severe The to ben a Ka op fro The your bon ng. real ll, pro helps ven is on for t way ximum urs noluw a at as we extracted juice and pre Soluti ipation make y and stro t occ the bes the ma ion. ns raw been Ibuku on e Const issue tha intestine- vision f of con tai lthy trit . has health availune ge pp le er of hea t’s it sh apples rcially usu- sel s and nu me nd ed e proders. imm health the lar ch of wa mu en numb nts , thacial- fre e comme juices ives efitA rec omapple juic h high sts the sorbiapple wh too Boo Th in s vat tain trie of ple spe C for g y wit nnu ap preser nutriabsorb ples consolution systemVitamin une sys servin your bod ins, mi health ing one able eat am containdown the , makre most The es the imm body to ts. ter. Apt offers a vides t of vit why ommend . But the - ally the cut terov oxidan Hence tol tha blem. amounand anti lesterol and- imp and assists and bac ists rec each day who preof which value. this pro erals zero cho ntity of satit tem bat germs tional apple ny people juice the in the With low qua sodium, com are ma nking it rd y Beauty s of ria. a ver fats and tem wa fer dri to eating efit cer best urated une sys following ts can is the t ben apple imm Preven juice er agains aids ins in the Apple defend off tox y ways: health es the bon Make and strong IL 19,

DAY

SUN

TELEGR

DAY APR

2015

, SUN

APH

lthy

S DIENT INGRE crabs ger ge 2 lar grated gin pped 2 tbs garlic cho ed pped how 2 tbs on chopp atoes cho i t ticed ½ oni m tom onions chopped e no and jus diu a d per ing ple hav 3 me seafoo asked for b lks spr net pep sta ost peoI love Cra 2 der b. e oil red bon much ek, a reaipe for cra simple 4 tbs onfuls oliv last we way rec requires er or 5 spo soy sauce pow we fun l and 2 tbs on over y and re, rfu health y flavou t will not taste. He with ½ lem of salt ipe ct tha ver g is Pinch dressin salad ients y distin crab rec ingred its ver simple en garden Salad drown pare a and a gree. pre ients ant will red hing few ingthe refres to up

om Biw

Iklak

r suit you garwill atever onions for on of wh a lem more the springe of half . juic k down inkle and add . Spr zzle the the wo tastes ouand driyou set r fav nish ore for you usually just bef gies I would ve that veg (lo on e the ves. uce salad. ½ lemolive oil Preparsh green aine lett some oli and ts 6 tbs of salt fre es, rom , and redien Bon oil, add2 rite Pinch ing ve. tomato umber olive garlic, . do nch), cuc dressing and ser N h the r ad RATIO wok wit chopped pepper cru sal you EPA the PR ely up a es and know Whisk e over Warm 2 tbs fin , tomato ing you b. Stir s, drizzl e! ger are lett cra ion e gin etit on ted tics app s in the chang tbs gra the aromasmell, tos rting to burn. When at they b is sta the garlic t. Taste gre how til the cra allow ch of sal n’t fry unr but do ce and pin sau colou the soy Add

EGRA

SUNDAY

&Sou

Body

APRIL

TEL NDAY 5, SU

19, 201

. ated e too are fre ldren cre folchi plies the art supmonth, theof Art on ndship, eafrie rked This works e b in Ab evPeace, wo divers themes: re. They oured Art Clu once ing ets mo nth, ildren as col he Ch which meof the mo the low ure and dia such crayon, col okuta Saturday rcise for of natth art me colour, eat to ka ter exe rds wi rd its wo , wa about body c. . Yin ery thi cluded . In the child is just pencilsand acryli rs, Mr gbe and was ht, “Somes bone just con of March “Every how to and ug lage, facilitato Shorun apprebone en he tho with thishare it month Picasso, blem is grows The e, Segun Adeniyi, Art it, wh t see here have to ter go un of Olumo gok , Pablo ist; the pro once he true beseg Ola ll bet gh ist Olu idugbe ent I wi I had mi an art an art must be increase ng the , Princethe presid . Kola Anused for then and them. So it.” Holdi ran toMr remain is saying ed an ion this ciate ent, the space ll as the ord Th with and eat uth, he we up”. they rec participat Movemviding nt as enike Ad en se home in his mo . hip and Oy woodwn cau mbers for pro engageme for the Olori bone his houseng the idance the do in me . the art ture of nded shirts nt, ht gu ges wardsile crossi g lookedhe saw month the rig vironme cover kind for the bra do dis th en Wh ere e lish to Wi the g Th foo e, eniyi ators. ped creativ ulatin bridg the river. ion. The er dog. stim en are hel ir inner and all facilit ect oth the into n refl for an g in the,” childrharness e of charge ll as the his ow stook it er do and . It is fre visit as we mouth mi oth dog re is an ne in its he was, genius ues they “The with bo eedy, as would the ven it water ught. Gr ow nice of bone he tho ught, “H t piece ve two he tho snatch thaI will ha , at be to ll. Then ked g loo . The as we .” y do ed bonesthe greed d growlck, too. So, ection an ed ba He wl gry. refl an gro his dog ection ion reflectmade the at his reflof!” As This down oof! Wothe bone looked ked, “Wmouth, river. bar and ened his l into the water fel the rehe op mouth when edy dog s in his s only wa gre t the had seen ions wa and minds he ect ll go e It ashed tha ative t what own refl t it was spl “I wi other sid ir cre tha e. is g the dg alized ng but his dog. Bu piece of ressin there a bri on the er n exp was for food The food ught to nothi t anoth lost the . Now Childre fish. He k e. tho ed no en had d dg loo he fish? dog. tuna betwe e. He of his gre ere ed a - an and a u can’t the brily better,” race re liv edy. Th he of wood g too latbecause ngry. ite the A: Yo tout the ? t fin the hu gre nce ne de ffin go oss r abo ato ’ and the es tha very self. d sni he bo had to per do? d acr ad was many tim ed. Each you hea the tom ey pepess! walke and starteddenly, - he f, him gre Q: Did tuce and was a ‘he up’! sel nos He a were dis e his Su s sin dg d. I at a o bu y for mised him the let e lettuce to ‘ketch at doe ? en bri d for foo lying k. This . Now s a dog to pa Q: Wh ts jalapen A: Th s trying un a bone in luc said. noodle had the dog pro lesson in.” But e cat win Ge aro wa fak my A: d en a he am la aga rnt mato and time spotte “Ah, I s bone,” y time, led wh you cal ve lea be greedy mises t? ou ce. an “I ha at do sta pro is it cal ! er a ves the lici tan at Wh in his ng de HY pa nev t up a Q: s sti Im Q: Wh gator will n forgo as ever. f? -TROP looks ut wa g picked g wa A: An l an alli the rood! show? CAT-HAS he soo greedy n, the do ed to Withongry do you caltor about cid as A: A joke er your hea was afternoo He de to eat. at do iga the hu st and r the Q: Wh Invest ov One hungry. ething there eat yea you hea nd, it’s , ly A: An if you shine! Q: Did ver mi terrib k for som house pens and his A: Ne erinde l rise go loooutside at hap you’l tar Q: Whpolish? o Oy Just a gui rning By Ay shoe ery mo ween A: Ev nce bet ere diff at’s the Q: Wh S

Gags

IN & MOY

Juliet

ND FRIE

393 4407 0803

NDER LE LI LITT

Contents 19.04.2015 COVER

I cannot cope in an environment where people are unhappy or depressed

-Bukola Adebiyi

} 18-19

FASHION Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with the trends

T h e Te a m Juliet Bumah (Editor)

} 22&43

Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent) Wole Adepoju Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent)

BEAUTY The gothic glam has swept the beauty world like a hurricane

} 21

Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics)

MY PASSION The beauty that is within is showcasing what we are seeing right now

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

} 17

GLAM DUDES The underwear is the foundation of any good outfit and care should be taken to choose the right one for every occasion

} 44

Associates

BED, WORK & LIFE The door opens and a nurse beckons on Dave. “Doctor needs you,” she says. “Oh sure,” he says. Dave plants a kiss on the baby’s forehead and rushes after the nurse. James plants a kiss on Alice’s lips and rushes after him

} 20

Helen Paul

Eyitayo Aloh

i By ee

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Body&Soul

I regret raising my child without a father - Monalisa Chinda

Nollywood actress and film producer, Monalisa Chinda, has carved a niche for herself in the industry. In this interview with DEBORAH MAKOJI, she talks about her new TV programme and her regrets

Briefly tell us about your background I was born on September 13 in Ikwerre, Rivers State. I am the first born in a family of four daughters and two sons. I had my primary and secondary education in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. I studied Theatre Arts at the prestigious University of Port Harcourt. I was crowned ‘Face of Port Harcourt Carnival Queen’ in Rivers State and have got so many other awards that I cannot list. I began my professional movie career in 1996 when I featured in ‘Pregnant Virgin.’ I also featured in the movie: ‘I’m above the law’ shortly after I graduated from the university in the year 2000. I was regarded as the ‘Rave of the moment’ because I appeared in almost every two out of five movies released in Nollywood. Tell us some of the prominent movies you have featured in. Tight Corner, Lust to Lust, Total Control, Fragile Pain, The Golden Fish, The Golden Moon, Indecent Desire, Inside Job which were shot in 2005. I also featured in movies such as The Devil in Her, Spirit of Love, On My Wedding Day and many others. I have received several awards for my roles in several movies which include 2011 ZAFAA awards for the Best Actress in Comedy Series and City People Face of Nollywood Award. What is the talk show ‘You & I with Monalisa’ all about? ‘You & I with Monalisa’ is a programme that will be telecast on DStv’s Africa Magic Channel. Each episode will commence with beautifully acted out scripts followed by endearing discussions with distinguished guests. As our society is constantly in flux, the show aims to record these unique changes and promote an on-going debate through the idea of open source interactions. Our guests take on critical social issues with fresh perspectives and insights to highlight possible solutions to a particular dilemma. The aim of the television show is to inspire, educate, empower and entertain its viewers. We aim to give hope and encourage people who are disillusioned about the realities of life. We will also provide a medium to elevate its audience towards reaching their full potential and becoming the citizens they desire to be. What is the focus of the programme? The focus is on social issues, it’s also about lifestyle. A segment of it is going to be a drama show whereby every topic we discuss here with our guest will be shown on the screen for proper illustration. Of course it’s a very engaging show. It is not a regular talk show, but more of social trendy issues. It’s educative and innovative like helping to resolve day to day issues that we have in our society. How often will the show hold? It is going to be a weekly stuff. It’s an unconventional weekly talk show that employs engaging interactive debates enmeshed with drama to address everyday social and trending issues. But it will be on hold for now because of the elections. It is not a live programme but by the grace of God, it will be aired by this time next year.

What is your take on the saying that married people are more satisfied in life than the singles? No they are not. I can give you statistics especially in Nigeria that say that a lot of women are in a tragic marital situation. Well, I will leave it at that. Is it true that being single or divorced is a common trait among less educated and lower income people? No, that is where divorce resides. Those who are educated, who are more comfortable monetarily and can afford luxuries of life are the ones who have issues in their marriages. Issues are everywhere; even the economic downturn has really affected homes in many ways. I will not blame it on any individual, rather on the society. Let’s say about 40 per cent of it. What do you regret most about your past? One thing I regret most is the fact that I am divorced. Where I come from, I am the first daughter. I am from a royal family. It has never been on record that the first daughter walked out of her matrimonial home. But it was a matter of life and death, otherwise, I would have stayed back and made my marriage work. I tried to make it work but it takes two people to tango. That’s the only thing I regret, raising my child without a father. It’s a bit painful. But I have to live with it. It’s better that way than to expose my daughter to all sorts of domestic violence. It will definitely disorient her and affect her upbringing. She will be dysfunctional. God knows the best. Maybe I should be more careful. Do you think the government has done enough for the industry? I cannot begin to mention how they have actually helped the industry but they’ve really done so well. They granted some funds for each and every one of us to access. The fund is very much accessible although I haven’t had the time to access it because you have to fill a form and all that. It is well structured in such a way that you don’t just go and play with it. I think the government should continue with more funding because it is never enough. We need to build our own film village with enough technical equipment to help our industry. What is your advice for young ladies that wish to rise to your current position? Just be determined, focused and have confidence in yourself that you can do it. Don’t welcome any fear that you cannot do it. Don’t let your fear overshadow your ability. What is your idea about beauty? It is natural, it is the beauty that is within that is showcasing what we are seeing right now.

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Helping the less privileged is Mrs. Olubukola Adebiyi is a woman of exploits whose vision of helping the less privileged in various spheres of life has spanned over twelve years. Today, her organisation, Jakin NGO, is doing great works with vulnerable groups across Nigeria. In this interview, she tells VANESSA OKWARA how it all started, her lifestyle and many more Is Jakin an acronym? What does it actually mean? No, it’s a Hebrew word for, ‘He establishes’. That means God establishes everything. It is a biblical word. What is Jakin all about? Jakin NGO is basically an organisation set up to sort out some of the social ills in the society. Jakin focuses on educational, economic and health empowerment for vulnerable groups across Africa. These groups include orphans, widows, people with HIV, less privileged families and youth. Our focus for now is Nigeria even though we have done some things in Sudan, Liberia and Ghana but we don’t go there directly; we work basically with missionaries to reach such areas. When it comes to the angle of health, we do a lot of work in the area of testing for HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. We do a lot of awareness in the communities. We have volunteers that work with us who direct people to where they can get proper health care. The organisation also has a medical screening centre where people can have free hepatitis B test, blood sugar test, BMI, blood pressure, HIV testing, malaria testing. It is all encompassing. Also we help people with minor surgery, hospital bills and blood donation. In the area of education, we do a lot of work in the enrolment of children into schools, school dropouts are also put back into schools. We work more with public and government schools. We also work with special schools like school for the blind. We help children with materials for school completion in ‘Dress a Child Project’ that we embark on every year. At the same time, for the orphans and vulnerable children that we are dealing with, we have a kids’ club that meets every third Saturday of the month and we have over four hundred active members that we bring together from 0 - 18 years. We train the kids on different things like their health, career and educative talks. We have a widows group also that meets every month. We have about 80-200 widows that come for these meetings. Just like we do for the kids, we do empowerment and vocational skills training for them. When they come for such meetings, apart from refreshments and transportation support, they must go home with a pack, sometimes nutritional and sometimes educational and household products. Under the economic aspect of our NGO, we have computer training centre in our office established by PZ industries. We also get support from DHL. We have all these running in the organisation. We have quarterly empowerment training where people come for vocational skills training. We have what we call Fresh Foundation Program which is like a grassroots business school. It is a three months course of once-a-week lectures. The major thing we do under that empowerment is setting up people in businesses, but we don’t give cash. If we know what you want to do, we help you to raise a budget and stabilise the business. If someone is sick at home with no help, we take up that issue, clothing is provided continuously in the office. We do community medical outreach quarterly. We go into the riverside areas with a team of doctors and attend to their medical needs. From all you have said so far, this is obviously a large package. How do you coordinate the different projects going on? I think we should start by correcting that I have an ‘Oga’ at the top and that is God. That is the meaning of Jakin. It is God that establishes everything we do here. Everything that we have right now, we did not start like that. Jakin is going to be 12 years this year. God gives the idea and makes the provision available. Some of these

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Body&Soul

my calling - Bukola Adebiyi things were just visions in the cooler. Along the line, we keep expanding and God keeps sending the support we need along those lines. We have been able to build a structure that can sustain it. Why did you start Jakin? It is all about personal passion and God’s leading. A lot of people are into NGO’s for different purposes. For the first three years when Jakin started, I didn’t even have a salary. Helping the less privileged is actually like a calling for me. It is all about putting smiles on people’s faces. I cannot cope in an environment where people are unhappy or depressed. I found out that the more you are helping people, the more God helps you to provide more support for these people. The initiative keeps expanding. I never run short of ideas. I know my source is God who establishes everything; I don’t think I can get tired of what I am doing. Sometimes, what will support us to the next level may not be available but when we remember it is not all about you, we know that the Person that established the vision will always take it up. What was growing up like? I grew up in a family of five in an Agricultural institute. My father is a research scientist, Professor Akinlosotu, and my mum is a business woman. Life was fun growing up in a plantation. I am the last born of the family. I have three brothers and a sister who is now late. I never knew pressure and we were

surrounded by nature most of the time. I think God gave me that experience to appreciate life and nature. My parents were extremely God fearing. They brought us up to be extremely God fearing and independent. I studied Management and Accounting at Obafemi Awolowo University. I have never worked for anybody. I started Jakin before I did my NYSC. I knew on time that God has deposited so much in me that nobody can pay for. I had so much that I could give the world. Even when I don’t have a dime, I am content with doing God’s work right from the beginning. I didn’t see myself working for anybody, or going for an inter-

view. Today, I have lost count of the number of newspapers I have appeared in within the first five years we started Jakin NGO. What was the first project you took up when you started the NGO? That was in February, 2004. This NGO has never had a stakeholders meeting or a fundraiser. We are so different from other NGOs out there. What happened was that when God gave me the vision, he gave me the grace to sell and market things. I used to do drama and was active in school fellowship. I am somebody that enjoys pulling crowd. Back then, we didn’t start Jakin seeking donation. We started this organisation having products. Then, even if you buy just one bookmark from us, we will write your name and phone number down. We sold our bookmarks and raised money for a period of time. From what we saved up, we gave out half bag of rice to the old people’s home at Onike, Yaba, and we were so happy about it. That was the first thing we did. We didn’t have to have millions before we gave. From the little needs we meet, at the end of the month, we compile it as email to all the people who bought the bookmarks and gave us their contacts. That was how we started and grew to where we are today. Now that you have much bigger projects like the ones you mentioned earlier, how do you source for the funds? 80% of funds for Jakin come actually from individuals, a few corporate organisations and churches. The other 20% comes from donors like USAID, UK AIDs and the likes. For these foreign organisations, when they give you, it is strictly for their projects like HIV, malaria or tuberculosis. The people who bought bookmarks and saw what we did with the money started to give more and also recommend their friends and family. We breakdown the project and tell t h e m what w e need both i n

material and financial donations. We have a few things that generate resources in the organisation. Like the ICT centre, where you pay a token. We have a kitchen were we also use to raise a little funds. There are other small things we do to raise funds when we need to. What gave you the idea to start the Dress a Child Project which has made your organisation popular? Dress a Child Project is going to be six this year. The first one we did was for two hundred children. Last year was for five hundred children. Some of them are from single parents, disadvantaged and living on the streets. They are living life like nobody cares. They are not the ones in the orphanage homes. A lot of people when they have resources, they go to orphanages. But the number of children we have on the streets are much more. When it was time for these children in our kids’ club to go back to school from the long holiday, we brainstormed in my office on what we need to do for them. We looked at the calendar and saw that the International Literacy Day was on September 8th and said it would be nice for children to appreciate literacy beyond just going to school. We decided, why not make International Literacy Day of every year an educational Christmas for these children? It is giving them the chance to express themselves and their God-given talent which they have seen a few times on television. There is so much potential in these children on the streets than we ever think. What are the challenges you encountered while starting this organisation? There were a few things. Every NGO starts from getting people to believe in you. It is difficult to break that wall that people have built in their hearts that NGOs are money sucking organisations. Most people starting NGO’s are either celebrities or wives of highly placed people or rich people. I started on my own with only the name of God that I have. So, to convince them, we built trust or even have them recommend us; that was the first hurdle we jumped. Secondly, when you are really doing this work, you can never have enough. The project initiatives are expanding by the day, the needs are expanding as well. As you are meeting a need, the person is recommending another person to come to you. The third one is people that make pledges and don’t redeem it. It is one of the most painful experiences that we have. The last challenge again we have is the issue of accommodation. There is nothing as good as having your own. We really need a building of our own, something large enough to accommodate all the projects we embark on. How do you cope with work, being a mother and wife? I started Jakin before I got married. So my husband knew what he was carrying. He knew he was carrying a woman that has plenty of children. If he was not led to marry me, he would’ve run away by now. We got married in November, 2008. On my own part, I try my best because I cannot do everything. That is why we have a staff strength of twenty-one. We have over four hundred active volunteers and they are still not enough. I try not to do everything on my own so that I can have time for the family. I have a three year old son and I am expecting another one soon. I try to do proper child spacing so that I can have time to carry them.

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

e needed to confide in someone. This beauty was so close yet so far away from him. He wanted her so much. He could feel she wanted him too but she was just not forthcoming with her affection. It seemed she was taking her time to make a choice. Gawd! Why couldn’t things just work out the way he planned it? He swigged from the cognac bottle once again. His throat burnt and he drank from the bottle of water he always kept handy when indulging in spirits. He wanted her, that he knew. Sleeping would be a big issue this night. So he wanted to get drunk and drift into slumberland. In the morning, he would visit her. He had to hold himself. He shouldn’t behave like a sissy in love. His phone rang. He dived for it, wishing it would be her. Alas! It wasn’t her, it was Alice. “Hello,” he said gruffly. He could hardly hear what she was saying between sobs. Unfortunately, the cobweb the spirit had gathered in his brain made it difficult for him to make out what she was saying. But it was obvious she was in distress and wanted to talk. He was in no condition to talk or drive but couldn’t leave her to sleep in the house alone. “Baby, can you drive over? I’m in no condition to talk now,” he slurred. “I think it’s late. I don’t think it’s...” Alice began but he waved it off. “You can do it in less than 10 minutes dear. It’s not too late. What time is it? It’s never late in Lagos,” he said, not checking the time. He should have, because it was almost 11.30pm. After more argument, she reluctantly agreed to drive over. She just couldn’t bear the pain in her heart anymore. She threw a loose silk top over a floral Lycra pants. No makeup. She would just dash there and be back within an hour or more. As the gate of the estate was shut behind her, she realised that it was late. Her eyes dashed to the dashboard clock. It was about eight minutes to midnight! What? She slammed on her brakes and wanted to make a u-turn when she picked out the headlamp of an oncoming vehicle. Fear gripped her. The road was deserted. She lifted her foot off the brakes and brought it down, hard, on the throttle and the Mercedes CLK lunged forward. In no time, she was honking at his gate. She was panting as she got into his sitting room. “What’s the problem? You have been crying,” he said as he got back to the ottoman, after securing the locks of the door. “He didn’t come back again. Three consecutive nights. I called and called. He said he was okay and would be back ‘soon’. My last call was picked by a woman who called me an old hag. Can you imagine that? After all I did for him? How long can I continue like this? The doctors said nothing is wrong with me, that we should just keep trying. For how long will I continue to live like this? For how long?” She cried and cried. He didn’t know what to say. He had told his brother to change his ways. To pay more attention to his wife who had been suffering so much. In his present befuddled state, he could do nothing. His heart ached. The woman he wanted was not forthcoming. He swigged from the cognac bottle again and held it out to her. “Here, take a sip. It will help calm you down. I really don’t know what to say again. I’ve talked with James. I dunno what seems to be wrong with him. But I know he will come back to his senses. I know he will. I’ve been drinking. Can’t call him now. I’m not coordinated right now,” he said, slurring over most words. She took the bottle and didn’t sip. In-

julietbumah@gmail.com

The joy of a newborn

stead, she took some swigs and the warm liquid burnt down her throat into her lunchstarved intestines. The effect was in her brain in minutes. She swigged another gulp and began to cry. “Hey don’t cry baby. It will be okay. I’ll talk to him in the morning...” He moved to her and pulled her up. She leaned on his shoulders and cried. He patted her back while she cried. It’s good for her. After letting out the tears, she would feel better. He began to feel her warmth. He lifted her face and kissed her forehead, then her salty cheeks and then, he found her mouth. He got little resistance and kissed away. His hands rummaged in her silky blouse and found unfettered boobs. Aaaaah! He kneaded the nipples and she moaned. The feel of the pure silk fabric on their skin was heavenly. She was kissing him back now. They held on to each other while their hands moved wildly over their bodies. They had got to the point of no return. His fingers found the single loop holding her blouse together and loosened it. He then pulled it off her shoulders and it slipped to the floor. Few seconds later, her floral pants was hanging around her ankles. He bent and held it so she could walk out of it. He then kissed from her knees up her thighs, circumventing her honeypot, up her belly to her boobs where he took one, then the other into his mouth. She moaned louder, tugging at his pyjama bottoms. He waltzed her to the ottoman, sat her on it and knelt before her. He found her mouth again and prodded it with his tongue, sucking and kissing her lower lips. He went lower, sucking her tits slowly, his finger travelled lower, found her clit and rubbed softly. A soft moan escaped as his index finger slide into her warm, moist cave of wonders. He bent lower, pushed her gently on her back and went to work between her thighs with his mouth. She let out a scream as his prodding tongue licked and sucked her labia. He drew the string of his pyjama bottoms

and slipped out it. They lost it as his ramrod whatchamacallit’s cap hit her clit... He travelled back in time to his room on the campus. She was young and shy. He got in there for the first time or so he thought...today, she wasn’t so tight but she’s got all the tricks. The alcohol in their system mixed with the agony in their hearts and didn’t allow them to think of playing safe. They held on to each other, each drawing warmth and succor for their individual heartache. But the gods wouldn’t let them hide that secret. A seed was planted to remind them of that discreet but passion-filled little business. ***** Dave recalls that call that changed everything. Then, he shakes his head to break his reverie. It’s full moon now and it’s time to reap what he sowed nine moons ago. He had always wanted to be in the labour room while his wife is delivered of his baby. Alice is in there but he wouldn’t be able to stay there! He glances at James and wonders what is going on in his mind. James paces aimlessly in the car park. He cannot describe how he feels. What? His wife is in labour but not for his child. She is going to be delivered of another man’s child! Whose child? Who has been tilling his ground? He either seeks the truth and bears the shame when the bubble bursts or live the lie, knowing that another man is farming in his garden. He shakes his head again as if to shake off the truth. He paces a few steps and stops in front of Kathryn’s car. He recalls the happenings of the day and wonders if Dave suspects any fowl play. He glances at Dave who is looking into space and wonders what is going through his mind. He is grateful that Dave was around when Alice arrived. He was the one who rushed to her, helped her in and was massaging her waist all through. He just hung around like a ghost that was not given a befitting burial. He shakes his head and smiles. Why think

of death when they are expecting new lives? Well, in the midst of life, there is death, so they say. He feels most uneasy. A nurse rushes out. They both rush towards her. She needs something from Kathryn’s car and without thinking, James pulls out her car key from his pocket and walks to the car. Dave follows him. They got to the booth and Dave exclaims, “By Jove! What happened to this car?” “She had an accident,” James says before realizing his folly. He bit his lower lip and draws blood. “Accident? Where? How did you know?” Dave asks, confused. At that very moment, another nurse runs out and beckons on them. “What’s the...any problem...who...” Dave stutters. She smiles and says, “She’s been delivered of a baby...” “Who?” The two men ask in unison. They look at each other and race into the hospital. Dave, because he’s excited and James because he’s glad of that diversion. They meet a doctor at the door of the labour room. “Congratulations, you’ve got a big boy in there,” he says, pointing to a private ward. “Who?” They ask him. “Alice. Kathryn is making progress,” he says, walking away. “Great! Dave shouts, beaming from ear to ear while James looks at him. “My guy, cheer up. A son!” Dave says with pride. “A son, yes, whose son?” James asks. “My...our son! Let’s go see them,” Dave says. As the two men enter the room, Alice looks up. The look on James’ face is not encouraging at all, but the joy on Dave’s face is infectious. He rushes to her, hugs and pecks her on the forehead. He then moves to the cot and freezes. The tiny tot is his mirror image! James sits on the edge of the bed and looks at his wife. They stare at each other. After a while, he says, “Congratulations!” “Thank you,” Alice responds and adds, “ Won’t you see the baby?” “Oh yes...yes...how are you feeling?” James asks, moving towards the baby’s crib. “I’m fine,” she says. Dave pulls back as James approaches the baby’s cot. As James beholds the tiny tot, his heart fills with joy. The baby looks so beautiful. There’s something vaguely familiar about him. A son for him! His shame is covered. He smiles. Surely, they can make amends. Alice watches him closely, wondering what is going on in his mind. Her eyes lock with Dave’s and she asks, “How is my sister?” The atmosphere changes again, “The doctors are still with her...” The door opens and a nurse beckons on Dave. “Doctor needs you,” she says. “Oh sure,” he says. Dave plants a kiss on the baby’s forehead and rushes after the nurse. James plants a kiss on Alice’s lips and rushes after him. Alice watches them rush off, wondering... ***** Indeed, what is happening to the two men? Why hasn’t Kathryn who got to the hospital first given birth? Let’s find out here on Sunday. •Send your observations to the email above.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Body&Soul

The gothic glam! Biwom Iklaki

hen one says ‘black and blue’, many people would think of a music album. In beauty spheres, black and blue is the new trend in lipsticks. The gothic glam has swept the beauty world like a hurricane and it is gathering momentum as it goes. Besides the eyeshadow, winged eyeliner and blush that one uses, one of the things that bring the gothic look together is the dark lip colour. Once upon a time, it used to be dark red lipsticks mostly. Now, there is a whole range of colour spectra, from black to dark plum to dark red, purple, berry and blue. Combinations can also create a stunning effect when you want to stand out. You can use a black lipstick to line the lips, then use a blue or berry on the inside, then smudge them to blend. You can explore this on trend look in different ways like matte, sheer and gloss. Matte often stays on longer while the sheer is more silky and moist. The gloss version gives a shiny, girly, finish for when you hit the town with friends in the evening with that smile that guarantees you are noticed. With fun names for these colours like punk queen, wicked, blackberry juice and more, what’s not to love?

Body&Soul

one are the days when a pregnant woman looks downright dowdy! It has become quite fashionable to look sexy while pregnant as most hot

Vanessa Okwara

doesn’t conceal the belly, it highlights it with streamlined styles and stretchy, clinging fabrics. Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with the trends and feel fashionable. The last thing on most women’s minds especially with all the discomforts that

Purchase jeans a few sizes larger instead of pregnancy jeans. Pregnancy jeans are just going to make you feel heavy because they go up over your belly. However, buying jeans a few sizes up will make you feel sexier; just wear them so they fit beneath your belly.

in your last trimester, a gorgeous maxi dress is the perfect choice. Anything made of stretchy fabric will do and blazers that can be left partially unbuttoned. For shoes, you can get kitten heels, ballerinas, flat sandals and gladiators. If you are crazy over heels, wear plat-

Pregnant but sexy!

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

22, 43

SundayBusiness SUNDAY

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

News

Groups canvass strong, enforceable national tobacco control law p.24

Brands With new logo, FCMB deepens identity value p.28

Interview

Don’t blame clearing agents for delays –Igbokwu p.25

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph online.com

Oil prices may drop again - Report

Paul Ogbuokiri il prices rose to the highest level of the year on Wednesday as a break in the United States shale boom signaled a potential easing of the biggest supply glut since 1930. Oil prices advanced for a fifth day on Wednesday in the longest rising streak since August 2013, climbing to over $59 per barrel, but experts say the rebound may not return the industry to the pre-June 2014 prices of over $100 per barrel. Prices rebounded 17 per cent this month as a record decline in rigs seeking oil boosted speculation that production would soon slow and as refineries used more crude after seasonal maintenance. OPEC increased output by the most in four years even as U.S. shale output is poised to fall. These mixed signs are likely to whipsaw prices amid increased volatility, according to oil historian and economist Daniel Yergin. Prices are 45 per cent lower than a year ago, trading at $59 a barrel in London on Wednesday; this is as OPEC maintains a policy of defending market share in response to the highest U.S. output in three decades. Production in the U.S. Deziani Alison-Madueke will fall next month for the first time since the reEnergy Information Administration began porting monthly data in 2013. Fundamentally, there is little “I have a really hard time thinking that we’ve reached a turning point,” said Bill O’Grady, chief to stop oil’s slide right now. An market strategist at Confluence Investment Management in St. Louis, which oversees $3.4 bilinterim January low of $43 was lion. “You still have 480 plus million barrels of broken on Wednesday, and the oil. I don’t think you’ll get a decline in stockpiles soon.” chart analysts are finding it In a report on Wednesday, the International Enprices difficult to predict a bottom ergy Agency said that the outlook for oil remained uncertain. Given the price collapse, “one might be hoping for more clarity on supply and demand,” the agency acknowledged in its ing Director of Financial Derivatives Limited, the monthly Oil Market Report. “Yet in some ways, prices of crude oil seem steady on the increase the outlook is only getting murkier.” temporarily because of development in the US The agency’s report reflects a broad debate in- Shale oil industry. But in so far as OPEC continues side and outside the oil industry about where on its market defense and there is the likelihood prices might eventually settle. that the shale may resume fully after the rises to Royal Dutch Shell, the oil giant that announced a profitable margin, the market may not soon an almost $70 billion takeover of the British oil return to the pre-June 2014 prices. and gas producer BG Group last week, is expect“The rebound in price may see it rise above $60 ing prices to recover much of their recent drop at that point shale oil drillers will go back to the over the next few years. It projects prices to hit field and as the technology continues to spread $90 a barrel in 2018. to other parts of the world, there is the likelihood As the International Energy Agency noted, that the price fall may return. competing forces are still playing out in the “But the oil market remain the most uncertain market, making the direction difficult to discern. market in the world today and any may calamLow prices have stimulated higher-than-ex- ity of event could upturn any trend and make pected demand for oil products in China, India nonsense of nay forecast on the future of the and even Europe, which has been plagued by market,” he said lethargic economic growth, the agency said. But AIE said among the uncertainties in the market whether that increased consumption is a “tem- is the potential effect on oil supplies of a proposed porary aberration” remains to be seen, it added. nuclear accord with Iran, a major producer, the It insisted that there is much uncertainty, for agency said. International sanctions have sharply instance, over future crude demand from China, reduced the country’s sales of oil, and an accord which on Wednesday reported economic growth is expected to ease or even lift those sanctions. of 7 per cent, the weakest rate since early 2009. While it would take time for Iran to organise the Supply is also hard to gauge. While there are enormous investment that would be required to signs that low prices are beginning to have an sustainably bolster its production capacity, the impact on the production of oil from shale rock, agency said that the country might be able to overall oil output in the United States is expected make short-term changes to increase output and to grow this year, the agency said. exports relatively quickly. In addition, the Organisation of the Petroleum For instance, the agency said, Iran has 30 milExporting Countries is showing no signs of back- lion barrels of oil stored on tankers, which could ing away from the policy, supported by Saudi quickly feed an increase in exports. The agency Arabia, of holding onto market share regardless also estimated that Iranian oil fields could ramp of falling prices. OPEC production rose almost up production to as much as 3.6 million barrels 900,000 barrels a day in March from a month ear- a day, a 29 per cent increase, within months of lier, the agency said, as Saudi Arabia increased sanctions being lifted. production to more than 10 million barrels per Specialists have been working at some of those day. sites, and “some of Iran’s core fields,” which were According to renowned Economist and Manag- run down, may already have been revived, the

Jonathan

agency said. Under the pressure of sanctions, both Iranian production and exports have been curbed. Exports are down about 50 per cent since 2012, to an average of around 1.1 million barrels a day, though they rose to 1.3 million barrels a day in March on high demand from China. Iran has called on OPEC to reduce production output, it seems that this call will not sway Saudi Arabia’s resolve in maintaining output until the next OPEC meeting on June 5,” said Harry Tchilinguirian, London-based head of commodity markets strategy at BNP Paribas SA. “The fiveday rally is being supported by the first forecast dip in U.S. shale oil production.” Brent for May settlement, which expires Wednesday, climbed as much as $1.20, or 2.1 per cent, to $59.63 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange and was at $59.19 at 11:25 a.m. local time. The more active June contract gained 66 cents to $60.47. West Texas Intermediate for May delivery increased as much as 96 cents to $54.25 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract advanced $1.38 to $53.29 on Tuesday, the highest close in a week. Total volume was about 14 per cent below the 100-day average for the time of day. Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest crude exporter, in November led OPEC members’ decision to maintain collective quotas at 30 million a day, ignoring calls to cut supply even as U.S. production surged. The most pessimistic prediction has come from Citibank, which has said crude oil could fall as low as $20 a barrel this year, but prospects for $20 oil are as unlikely as the predictions for $60 oil were only a few weeks ago when it looked like an imminent and sustained recovery was just over the horizon. Fundamentally, there is little to stop oil’s slide right now. An interim January low of $43 was broken on Wednesday, and the chart analysts are finding it difficult to predict a bottom. Oil stockpiles are still increasing, with 458 million barrels in storage, by far a new record. At the rate of increases in stockpiles, it is estimated that storage will be completely used up by the middle of May. With virtually nowhere to put oil, prices will again have nowhere to go but down. Crude stockpiles in the U.S. probably expandC ON TI N UE D ON PAGE 24

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Business/ News

Groups canvass strong, enforceable national tobacco control law A Paul Ogbuokiri

s the House of Representatives begins a clause by clause debate on the National Tobacco Control Bill (NTCB), the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) and Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC) have called on the members of the House of Representatives to ensure a strong and enforceable law that puts the health of Nigerians first. The groups also tasked the lawmakers on ensuring that the bill which must conform to the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC) gets the Presidential signature before the end of the seventh National Assembly. In a statement issued in Lagos, ERA/ FoEN Director, Corporate Accountability and Administration, Akinbode Oluwafemi said: “As members of the House resume seating after the elections to deliberate on key issues bothering on the nation we are renewing our call that they pass the NTCB into law without further delays” “We reiterate that the health of our citizens hangs in the balance as our lawmakers delay the passage of the bill. For the tobacco industry this delay is very welcome as it would enable them hook more smokers to their deadly wares” CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Raf-

sanjani said: “As the lawmakers deliberate on the bill we also urge them to be on their guard for more misleading articles, and reports by tobacco companies aimed at thwarting a strong and effective law.” The groups said a NTCB that is in conformity with the WHO-FCTC must prohibit all forms of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by tobacco companies, adoption of higher taxes and price mea-

sures to reduce tobacco consumption going by global studies that have shown that higher tobacco prices encourage cessation among existing tobacco users, while preventing initiation among potential users. It must also ban tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship and enact 100 per cent smoke-free laws that prohibit smoking in all indoor workplaces and public places (including restaurants, bars

and other hospitality venues) and public transport. There should be no room for Designated Smoking Areas (DSAs). Other recommendations include prominent graphic health (picture) warnings on tobacco packages covering 75 per cent of the principal display areas and exclusion of the tobacco industry from tobacco control policies and implementation, among others.

Forex restrictions hurting banks –Balogun Oil prices may drop again - Report

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Mrs. Florence Oguntuase; Governor Babatunde Fashola; Managing Director, Cyrou Construction Company, Obi Bombey and Commissioner for Energy, Mr Taofeek Tijani, during the governor’s visit to Ilubinrin Housing project in Lagos … yesterday

he chief executive officer, FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Ladi Balogun, has said restrictions on foreign-currency trading are the biggest risk to banks in the country as they struggle against a slump in oil prices and a weak naira. “What we clearly see is a very tough half year. It is important that we restore liquidity in the foreign exchange market as quickly as possible,” Balogun said in an interview with Bloomberg on Thursday. The Central Bank of Nigeria recently applied rules and restrictions to stabilize the naira after the currency declined to a record low in February as the price of oil, the nation’s major foreign-exchange earner fell by a half in the second half of last year. The central bank has devalued the naira twice since November and prevented banks from buying dollars in the interbank market without matching orders, steadying the exchange rate while reducing liquidity. The naira has dropped 17 per cent against the dollar in the past six months, the most among 24 currencies tracked by Bloomberg. Pressure on the currency is expected to ease after portfolio inflows to Africa’s largest oil producer increased following last month’s presidential elections, Emmanuel Ukeje, director of financial markets at CBN, said this week. “Our hope is that as we get better on our balance of payments generally some of these restrictions will be relaxed,” Balogun said “When there is pressure on the currency, we all have to pay the price. The banks are paying the price of reducing the level of foreign exchange trading that they are doing.”

CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 2 3

ed by 3.6 million barrels in the week ended April 10, according to the median estimate in the Bloomberg survey of 10 analysts before a separate EIA report Wednesday. Supplies have increased for 13 weeks to 482.4 million, the highest level in records compiled by the Energy Department’s statistical arm since August 1982. Inventories gained by 2.6 million barrels last week, the industry-funded American Petroleum Institute in Washington reported Tuesday, according to a person familiar with the data. The U.S. is the world’s largest oil consumer and will account for about a fifth of global demand this year, according to projections from the IEA. Meanwhile Stanford economist, Frank Wolak, says the global oil price drop may last for the next couple decades. He said factors such as domestic oil production, improved technologies and declining market power of OPEC countries are likely to continue keeping oil prices low. The most likely medium-term outcome is $50 to $70 per barrel, according to Wolak. He is the Holbrook Working Professor of Commodity Price Studies in the Department of Economics at Stanford University. And while geopolitical and environmental issues may unexpectedly arise that turn oil prices upward, Wolak said many factors point to lower oil prices for the foreseeable future. Crude oil prices fell from a high of $115 a barrel in June 2014 to a low of $45 in January of this year. The lower prices have generated ripple effects throughout the global economy. The primary reasons for continuing low

prices include the slowing demand for oil in the industrialised world and ever-advancing technological change in the extraction and use of oil, wrote Wolak in a new policy brief for the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research. In his analysis, Wolak cited seven factors driving a long-term oil price decline: North American shale oil production: The shale oil and gas revolution in the United States has led to an increase of more than 4 million barrels per day in domestic oil production since 2008. Combined with an almost million-barrel-per-day increase from Canada’s Alberta tar sands, the surge has significantly reduced American demand for imported oil. Declining role of OPEC: Most members of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries face massive fiscal shortfalls because of low oil prices. To avoid further domestic unrest, these 12 nations are unlikely to reduce oil output, which would lead to even larger fiscal shortfalls. This makes unlikely coordinating reductions in oil production among the OPEC countries aimed at raising the global price. Standardisation of oil well drilling: The share of global oil production from the OPEC countries should continue to fall as more countries make use of shale oil and gas production technology developed in the United States. Cost difference between natural gas and oil: A key driver of a reduced global demand for oil is the development of technologies that are able to exploit the differential between the dollar per unit of energy price of oil versus natural gas. Even at $40 per barrel, the dollar per MMBTU (stands for one

million British thermal units) price of oil is much higher than the dollar per MMBTU price of natural gas. Technology innovations: A new innovation – CNG-in-a-Box technology – captures the natural gas that was formerly being flared off at the oil well and produces compressed natural gas (CNG) for use in vehicles and in drilling equipment, reducing the demand for diesel fuel. This technology makes productive use of natural gas in regions without natural gas pipeline infrastructure. Shale oil and gas technology exports: Though the recent reductions in oil and natural gas prices have caused investments in oil and natural gas exploration and drilling in the United States to decline, exported natural gas prices in the remainder of the world, particularly Latin America and Asia, remain much higher. This fact and a robust global oil demand driven by China and the developing world will continue to support continued investments in oil and natural gas exploration outside the United States. Oil supply curve flattening: The technology of shale oil and natural gas extraction involves much higher costs associated with the production of each barrel of oil because of the rapid rate of depletion of the resource for each shale oil or gas production rig. Conventional natural gas and oil wells have significantly slower rates of decline. This logic implies that in order to sustain production from a shale oil or gas resource, the continual drilling of new wells is necessary. As a result, it is possible to scale up and scale back shale oil and gas production more rapidly in response to demand surges, which should lessen oil and natural gas price volatility.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Business/ Interview

Don’t blame clearing agents for delays –Igbokwu David Igbokwu is the Managing Director of Davidson Logistics Company and president of Abia State indigenes Freight Forwarders Association of Nigeria. He spoke with STANLEY IHEDIGBO on the challenges, development of the freight forwarding industry in the country. Excerpts: What motivated you to go into freight forwarding business? It is a professional business that you can even start without having huge capital at hand. I went into the business after many years of searching for a job. As God would have it, I met one Mr. Austin, who taught me the business of freight and forwarding. From what the man taught me, I was able to improve on the job, as I attended seminars organised by Customs, Aviation Ministry as well as international trainings. Also, marketing is very paramount in this line of business. This is because without marketing yourself, you will not be able to connect to the right people or the importers that need your services. Educating yourself will go a long way in doing the job very well because there are different types of documents we deal with; from the custom’s brochures, index and tariffs. Also, you need to know what value to place on each item you are dealing with and how to defend your service when the needs arises for you to do that as you are representing the importer before the customs officers . it is important for you to have full knowledge of tariffs and the percentage you need to pay on each duty. It is very good to know duty fees to pay for any tariffs to assist you to easily clear your goods from the customs. Another thing is to avoid wrong declarations because it attracts punishment. And it is important that somebody is educated as well to function very well in the business and also give the person an edge over other people that were not able to acquire western education. One other thing is that in the aviation sector, where I operate, we have an aviation school to also help boost operational knowedge. Customs agents are usually perceived to be fraudulent and often collude with customs officials to rip off importers. Is that the only creative way for a customs agent to make ends meet? Often times, when people make allegations they are self-serving. Importers cannot accuse agents of fraud or of colluding with anybody to rip them off. This is because as an importer, you are supposed to know the value of the goods you bring in. You are supposed to know the percentage you will pay as duty to the Federal Government. Also, as an importer you are supposed to have an idea how things work in the system. Most of the importers when they brought in goods, they refuse to cooperate with their agents, like giving them the original invoices of the imported goods or the necessary documents that will facilitate the goods being cleared out of the customs warehouse in good time to avoid having them stay beyond the concessionary period. Then, you begin to incur demurrage. I am not saying that some of the agents don’t defraud their clients in this country, but most times when the importers lament, they forget that when they often give incomplete information to the agents. Meanwhile, the world has gone digital through information and communication technology. You can get the information they refuse to re-

lease to you from the internet. With that, you will be able to know the correct value of the imported goods, including the actual dates and other information the importer is keeping away from the agent with the intention of shortchanging government. These are the things some of the importers don’t know and don’t want to know about, so when you submit the documents you collected from your client to the Nigeria Customs office and Customs officers search the internet and get the value of the imported goods, the agent will be punished. The officers would believe that it was the agent’s plan to defraud government. The importer who after the discovery will be forced to pay more than who he planned to pay would in turn accuse the agent of colluding with Customs. There was a speculation that the Federal Government had a plan to increase the capital base of freight forward companies in the country. But some people are kicking that it would take away jobs from Nigerians who cannot afford the hike. How do you react to this development, looking at the job opportunities the industry has created for Nigerians? For you to qualify to practise as a Customs Clearing Agent, you must have a Customs Licence to operate. Nobody can do the business of clearing without the licence. This licence is renewed every year by Nigeria Customs Service. Most times, it is difficult to get the licence, even when you have your money at hand. I can tell you that some of the clearing agencies in the country have not been able to get the licence they applied for many years ago. But through some organisations that have a licence, they are able to do their work. If what was being considered was a hike in the registration fee for the licence, it is not new; they had done that several times in the past. But I don’t think the Federal Government will hike it out of the reach of its citizens. Looking at it, the sector has contributed to job creation for youths in this country. This is a sector that has the largest number of uneducated and educated people working and making their living in it. What it takes is for any interested person to learn the job for some time and such a person could become a great person through hard work, sincerity and commitment. What are the challenges in the sector? There are a lot of challenges. Everybody wants to meet up with developments in the changing ways of doing things in the sector, especially the application of information and communication technology. And when you are trying to meet up, there are some things you need to improve on before implementing rules and regulations. Sometimes, the customs service would just wake up and impose a new code of practice or tariff regime, when they have not done their homework very well. Some months ago, we had a problem of delay caused by having all goods pass through the scanning system at the customs warehouse. You must scan all goods to know what is inside; but at the scanning bays, you do not have enough scanning machines. As the volume

Igbokwu

This is a sector that has the largest number of uneducated and educated people working and making their living in it. What it takes is for any interested person to learn the job for some time and such a person could become a great person through hard work, sincerity and commitment rose, demurrage was being calculated against the importers even though the delay was not their fault. Operators of the terminal charge hundreds of thousands of naira for goods delayed in the warehouse. What about the Customs Pre-Arrival Assessment Report regime. Have you overcome the hiccups? The PAAR regime is a system everybody knows about. You have to prepare your PAAR before you present your documents for processing; but there are some goods that are exempted from the PAAR regime, like aircraft and ship spares, ship spares, those goods in transit which are very urgent that you must deliver within a specified period of time but most times, the shipments are delayed. Before now in the aviation sector, the agents used bond to carry ship spares but now they have changed the system. At that time when they were using bond, the agents used Customs escort. The escorts would follow the agent with the goods to the point of delivery to make sure that that particular shipment was actually ship spares. Now, you make payment and customs will not follow you as usual to quicken the movement of the goods. These are some of the backward integration the PAAR regime

has brought. We have overcome the teething stage but the general problem in the system has persisted and the blame game goes on. Which of the challenges would you like government to quickly intervene in? The problem is that most times government has a good plan but the people charged with implementing ith don’t do the right thing. Like the warehouses, they lack equipment such as enough scanning machines and other modern equipment. The authorities should train the customs officers because most of them are still lagging behind and do not know anything about the job. Those officers should be changed or retrained to meet up with required standards for the job. Again, most of the customs officers go on overseas training and when they come back, they still continue with old practices that are not moving the industry forward. I would encourage government to make sure that those customs officers are educated on the best practices of this industry because this sector is the second largest revenue generator for the government after oil. Are you aware that the Nigeria Customs Service blames the clearing agents for lagging behind in terms of meeting up with the pace at which the agency is transforming to modern practice in customs operations. It is said that most agents are not ready and willing to learn any innovation introduced by the agency for the improvement of the industry. How can they claim such a thing? It is not true because all stakeholders in the sector work hand in hand. You cannot clear the goods without the involvement of the Customs Service; even we are merely working for the Customs as its agents. So it is very important that they carry the agents along in their training and development programmes. And in the area of clearing , any goods that come out from the entry points into an agent’s hands have been released legally by the Nigeria Customs Service. So if there are lapses, CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Bearish mood fails to abate

he Equities market continued on a negative path this week, despite a successful end to the general elections. The Nigeria bourse, which started the week on a high note, traded south in three out of five trading days. Consequently, the Equities All Share Index (NSEASI) closed (-2.02%) down, pegging YtD return at +1.00%. Volume and Value of transactions dipped by 80.56% and 56.51% respectively week on week (WoW). 47 stocks advanced in the week ended, while 28 stocks declined in value, skewing market breadth (1.68x) for the week, in favour of advancers. GUINNESS emerged as the top gainer for the week with a 21.43%% increase in share price. VONO (18.82%), LIVESTOCK (14.54%), HONEYFLOUR (14.05%), and UACN (13.43%) also featured on the performers list. On the contrary, NESTLE led the laggards shedding 9.97% WoW. Other underperformers were ROYALEX (-5.45%), ABCTRANS (-5.26%), CCNN (-5.11%) and DANGFLOUR (-5.10%). We expect the negative sentiment which has permeated the equities market in the last two weeks to recoil in the coming week, if the flurry of corporate releases in the offing throw up impressive showings. Be that as it may, we expect discerning investors to engage in bargain hunting for attractively priced and fundamentally justified stocks. In this report, we review events in the economy, laying emphasis on performance of different segments of the financial market while presenting our expectations for the week ahead.

Economic Update: Inflation rate hits 8.5%, while oil prices reach 2015 highs With the successful conclusion of the country’s general elections, economic and corporate activities are expected to gradually pick up across the country. We however, anticipate that the transition period may drag government activities, as developmental actions and policies by the current administration may be stalled as ministries and governments prepare to hand over on May 29th 2015. Although the incoming government is yet to clearly define its economic stance, objectives and preferred strategies for achieving such, we do not envisage a significant deviation from current fiscal and monetary policies given the fragile state of the economy. Global oil prices rose to new highs this week, with Bent crude selling at c. USD63, following the drop in US shale oil production levels and the subsequent reduction in oil supply and demand gap. OPEC basket price also reached its 2015 high at USD58.88pb. We believe the gradual upswing in oil prices portends benefits for the Nigerian economy, which is highly dependent on oil proceeds to fund its expenditures. Given a possible oil benchmark price of USD53 for the 2015 budget, the unanticipated excess will certainly go a long way in reducing the country’s fiscal deficit. The Nigerian Bureau of statistics (NBS) released the March 2015 inflation report, which showed an 8.5% year on year rise in inflation, up 0.1% from 8.4% recorded in February. Core inflation (all items less farm produce) grew to 7.5% from 7.0% in prior month, while food inflation rate remained at 9.4%. The surge in headline inflation index in March, may not be unrelated to increased political spending in the period, as well as the tacit devaluation of the naira following the closure of the RDAS FX window in February. These, we believe, influenced the further hike in general prices, especially on imported items. We anticipate a slow-down in inflation rate in the coming months, following the halt in political spending now that elections are over. We, however, note that the unfavourable FX rate may continue to trigger imported items inflation. Agric Sector: Witnesses a resurgence as WtD increases by 1.43% Despite the lackluster performance of the equities market in the week, the MERI-AGRI index increased by 1.43% WtD to drive the YtD return to 7.33%. Market breadth (2.00x) favoured advancers, as 2 stocks gained against a sole decliner. LIVESTOCK seemed to be on a cyclical run, rising by 14.54% to close at NGN2.60 after an unimpressive showing last week. OKOMUOIL also grew by 4.73%. Conversely, PRESCO continued its bearish run, as it pared by 1.69% to close at NGN26.25. We expect a level of positivity in the agric sector next week, given its resilient stance even

…as NSEASI pares by -2.02%

as the equities market remained morose. We opine that as more impressive corporate releases begin to trickle in, optimism will set in and further drive the sector.

Banking Sector: Stocks fully priced after Post-Elections Market Surge Activities in the sector were tempered during the week, as 8 stocks advanced, 5 decliners, while 2 stocks traded flat to peg the YtD return of our MERI-BNK index at 15.84%. The gainers were led by FIDELITYBK (5.045%), ETI (5.34%), and UBA (3.96%), while the loser’s list included FCMB (-4.43%), SKYEBANK (-3.41%), and STANBIC (3.33%). There were several results released in the week, as Q1:2015 results started trickling in, while UBN released its FY2014 numbers. UBN finished 2014 on high note, recording gross earnings and earnings-before-taxes growth of 11.94% and 406.12% respectively. The performance was a divergence from those reported all through 2014, as the divestment of its non-banking subsidiaries acted to boost FY2014 performance. DIAMONDBNK, GUARANTY, STANBIC and UBA reported Q1:2015 numbers during the week. GUARANTY and UBA recorded respective gross earnings growths of 3.49% and 22.06%, and Earnings-Before-Taxes growths of 16.59% and 34.71% respectively; while DIAMONDBNK and STANBIC recorded recording respective YoY gross earnings growths of 16.93% and 11.63%, while Profit-Before-Taxes growth came in at -15.14% and -38.90% YoY accordingly. Many stocks are currently trading near their fundamentally justified prices after the rally that partnered the conclusion of the general elections. Consequently, the release of results seemed to have minimal impacts on the direction of trading on the specific stocks. This, in our opinion will persist in the near-term, although we expect a surge in market activities may partner the transition of government. Consumer Goods: GUINNESS returns 21.43% WoW Consumer goods counters recorded a negative week-on-week performance as major heavyweights pressured sector performance. The NSEFBT10 index consequently declined by -1.27% during the week, although sector breadth settled at 2.00x.

At the top of the gainers’ chart, GUINNESS returned 21.43% WoW, followed by VONO, HONYFLOUR, UACN, 7UP, INTBREW and UNILEVER with gains of 18.82%, 14.05%, 13.43%, 6.26%, 5.39% and 4.10% accordingly. NNFM and PREMBREW maintained their prices at NGN18.05 and NGN3.61. The decliners’ chart had NESTLE, DANGFLOUR, NB, DANGSUGAR, CADBURY, PZ and UNILEVER with respective losses of 9.97%, 5.10%, 1.51%%, 1.10%, 1.23%, 0.74%. During the week, GUINNESS announced a change in company leadership, as Mr. John O’Keeffe was promoted to the position of President of Diageo Africa, while Mr Soren Lauridsen replaces him as MD/CEO of Guinness Nigeria Plc effective from June 2015. The recently released March 2015 Inflation report by the NBS, showed Food and Nonalcoholic beverage recorded the highest MoM inflation growth, advancing by 1.06% (vs. 0.71% in prior month), while Alcoholic beverages advanced by 0.82%. This could imply an increase in demand for consumer goods relative to supply, or more likely, an indication of a transfer of increased production costs to the final consumers.

Healthcare Sector: Meri-Health Continues to Outpace NSEASI The sector Index continued to outperform the market, advancing by a marginal 0.02% WoW to settle the YtD return at 12.24%. Sector breadth pegged at 3x in favour of advancers, as three stocks appreciated in price against a lone decliner. All other counters closed flat. MAYBAKER emerged as the top gainer for the week, advancing by 9.77% WoW, to settle price at NGN1.91. NEIMETH consolidated on the previous week’s gain, appreciating by 9.20% to close at NGN0.95. Also, FIDSON appreciated slightly by 1.52% in the week. On the flip side, only EVANSMED witnessed a price decline of 4.78% to NGN1.99. The Sector has sustained the positive momentum for the third consecutive week; however, we expect some pockets of profit-taking on some counters that have appreciated significantly in the past weeks. Thus, we advise investors to tread cautiously. Insurance sector: HMARKINS releases impressive FY2014 result In spite of the profit taking activities during

the week, the NSEINS10 Index appreciated by 0.40% WtD to peg YtD return at -2.41%. Market breadth (0.60x) tilted in favour of decliners, as 3 stocks advanced against 5 decliners. AIICO returned +9.00% WtD, to close at NGN1.09 (vs. NGN1.00 in the previous week), emerging as the top gainer for the week. CONTINSURE and NEM trailed with respective gains of 1.49% and 1.16% WtD. On the flip side, ROYALEX led the underperformers after shedding 5.45%, to close at NGN0.52. Other decliners for the week included; WAPIC (-3.77%), CUSTODYINS (-2.41%), INTENEGINS (-1.96%) and MANSARD (-0.33%), while all other counters traded flat during the week. Consolidated Hallmark Insurance (HMARKINS) released its FY2014 financial result during the week, which showed that the company grew both its top and bottom-lines by 12.70% and 196.27% respectively. We expect an inflow of earnings results going forward, due to information sourced from NAICOM’s website, which revealed that 46 companies have submitted their 2014FY financial results, while others are under regulatory intervention or yet to submit. We anticipate that the outlook of the earnings declared would make or mar the sector performance in the coming week.

Industrial goods: Sector mood remains pressured. Activities in the industrial goods sector stayed tempered during the week as most sector stocks traded flat, 3 stocks appreciated and declined in value apiece. CUTIX emerged as the highest gainer, with a 9.49% WoW increase in share price to NGN1.73. ASHAKACEM and BERGER made up the list with respective gains of 3.62%, and 0.11%. WAPCO closed the week 0.01% down to NGN90.0, having shed the marginal gains made during the week, on the last trading day. CCNN and PORTPAINT also declined by 5.11% and 4.86% accordingly, in the review period. We expect companies in the sector to commence release of Q1: 2015 score sheets in the coming weeks. We are, however, not overtly optimistic that this will translate into improved sentiments on the stocks, as we do not envisage significant earnings surprises given the harsh operating environment. Oil & Gas Sector: FO records Q1:2015 declines Activities within the sector were quite lull, with four stocks floating above waters for the week. OANDO advanced the most with a 6.82% gain, followed by SEPLAT, ETERNA, and MOBIL, which returned gains of 2.66%, 2.62%, and 1.27% in that order. Conversely, decliners for the week were FO, and CONOIL, dipping 1.57% and 3.80% respectively. In the week, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc. (SEPLAT) proposed a dividend of NGN18.00/share, which translates to a dividend yield of 4.51% at the current market price. Closure date for the declaration is 22nd May 2015. Forte Oil Plc. (FO), in the week, released its Q1:2015 results, showing a 4.94% loss in revenue (NGN33.062bn vs. NGN34.781bn). Costto-Sales and OPEX ratios inched up slightly by 1.05% and 0.33% YoY. Consequently, PAT for the quarter declined by 28.98% (NGN0.783bn vs NGN1.103bn), reflecting a 0.80% dip in Net Margin YoY. Going into the coming week, we believe that investors’ expectations from companies’ FY2014 and Q1:2015 results would be factored into stock pricing, and would determine market direction. Services Sector: AIRSERVICE gains 12.82% The services sector recovered from its weak standing, as the MERI-SERV index advanced by 4.49%, pushing YtD return to 3.33%. 5 stocks increased in value during the period while 2 stocks declined. AIRSERVICE (12.82%), NAHCO (11.91%), TRANSEXPR (9.76%), CAVERTON (8.28%), and RTBRSICOE (3.70%) all appreciated in that order. ABCTRANS (-5.26%) and LEARNAFRICA (-3.97%) depreciated in value, while other counters traded flat. We expect the positivity in the services sector to continue, and we anticipate that impressive corporate releases in the sector will help to drive activity and renew confidence amongst investors.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

SundayBusiness

The bitter truth about saving Success Nuggets Victor Okwudiri 08037674300 (SMS only)

n the last few weeks, I discussed the subject of saving. I hope you found it useful. As important as saving is, however, there is a ‘bitter’ truth about it. The truth is that saving per se does not make one rich; it only affords financial security and stability, and can be a ‘springboard’ for financial elevation. In an economy with the history of currency devaluation, money kept at a place cannot add to someone. It can only lose value. Yes! Does it mean we should not save? I did not say so. Please, SAVE! If saving does not make one rich, what then is the essence of saving? You need to save: (1) so you can have something to fall back on in the event of a suspension in cash flow; and (2) to afford you a ready capital base

An interesting parable of talents was told by a rich man, in one of his teaching sessions. Given that the one who told that parable had (and still has) practical proofs of wealth, I consider that parable relevant for students of the school of wealth

for investment, especially impromptu (sudden) investment opportunities. However, saving does not really make one rich. What, then, makes one rich? I call it ‘The Secret of Multiplication’. THE SECRET OF MULTIPLICATION An interesting parable of talents was told by a rich man, in one of his teaching sessions. Given that the one who told

that parable had (and still has) practical proofs of wealth, I consider that parable relevant for students of the school of wealth. According to the parable, three servants were given talents - five, two and one, respectively. The servant given five talents and that given just two talents INVESTED theirs, and got a 100% profit each. The servant with one talent ‘SAVED’ (refused to invest) his, and, consequently, could not multiply his talent. What’s the lesson in the parable? It is simply this: The secret to the multiplication of anything is INVESTING that thing, whether it is money or a God-given talent (ability) or idea. What then does it mean to invest something? It simply means to put the thing into profitable use. Therefore, whereas saving will keep your cash intact (albeit subject to the realities of currency devaluation and applicable exchange rates per time), INVESTING releases the reproductive potentials in your money (or talents or ideas). Think about it. You will succeed. REFERENCE: Matthew 25:14-28 VICTOR OKWUDIRI is the Host of ‘Money Matters’, an electronic school of financial commonsense. He uses the Twitter handle @VictorOkwudiri.

Personality type/temperament (4) The Big Picture Julian Atufunwa 08032810713 (SMS only)

his is the fourth week we will be discussing personality types. It is important for everyone to know his /her personality type. Sometimes, we are surprised at our actions. You may never know all about yourself until you are face to face with a situation. At the end of the day, you may be asking yourself: “Was that really me?” “Did I actually do that?” It is important to understand the dynamics of our personality types. Our natural strengths and weaknesses can help us become more real to ourselves. Understanding personality types will boost productivity and efficiency in work, business, leisure and home environments. Knowing your personality type will help you choose the right career. Imagine a choleric personality choosing teaching as a profession. The pupils will be in trouble because a choleric is naturally impatient and has issues with anger. Don’t tell him about feelings because his emotions are the least developed of all personality types. Cholerics should go for law enforcement professions, founders, worriers, entrepreneurs etc. Understanding personality types will help business owners and marketers cope with their customers. In families, knowing each child will help parents choose the appropriate method of training. We have so far discussed three major personality types, namely: sanguine, choleric and melancholic and finally

this week the phlegmatic personality type.

their emotions internally rather than externally. They never wish to hurt others and will apologise quickly whenever they do. Hurting others can make them feel terrible. They can just by observing someone know what they are thinking or going through because phlegmatics are intuitive. They can take leadership roles when there is need to help people. They are most lively when they contribute to the community and the world. Phlegmatic do well as teachers, counselors, doctors and administrators.

PHLEGMATIC PERSONALITY TYPE Phlegmatic personalities are introverts. They enjoy time alone, as being with lots of people drains their energy. They love peace and are peace makers. They can give up anything for peace to reign. They can sacrifice their own happiness for others. Phlegmatics are easy going people, they are more of observers than talkers. They listen as if it is a duty to others. They get along with anybody and are hardly critical of others. They are more of encouragers and very supportive.. They are naturally good followers. They may be in the background but without them in a group or team, it may not be very efficient because they make things happen. They don’t mind who receives the credit and don’t mind others being preferred. Phlegmatics are submissive, dependable, tolerant, trustworthy, caring and thoughtful. In order to please people, they can hardly say ‘NO.’ They can suffer in silence. They manage anger well and can bear hurt inwardly. They explode only when it is most likely unbearable. Crying relieves their hurt. Phlegmatic personalities most times suffer abuse because people take advantage of them. Phlegmatics express

THEIR WEAKNESSES Phlegmatic personalities lack selfmotivation. Therefore, they may prefer the status quo. They lack drive unless pushed. They are resistant to change because they are kind of contented within. They don’t like confrontation and dread competition. They may prefer to run away from challenges than to face them. They are extremely wise but need awakening and reassurance to believe in themselves. They find it difficult to speak up when maltreated. They are shy and timid to be in front. They find it difficult to decide. They are very indecisive. How to cope with them to make them more productive They are loyal; just tell them what is expected of them and they will get their work done well. They need more external motivation to spur then to action. They can work alone effectively, but make them understand the power of synergy, teamwork. Set goals and deadlines for them. Make them understand that they should appreciate themselves more. Let them know that people’s judgment and opinion should not always count.

Don’t tell him about feelings because his emotions are the least developed of all personality types

CIMA lauds CGMA over accountants’ summit

frica Regional Director for the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), Samantha Louis, has said the institute is elated about CGMA’s Gold sponsorship of the Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) 2015 taking place in Mauritius from May 12 to 14, 2015. The Chartered Global Management Accountant designation (CGMA) is a global designation formed through a joint venture of CIMA and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). According to Louis, CIMA is “very excited about CGMA’s Gold sponsorship of ACOA 2015 which provides us a unique opportunity to introduce this global designation to accountants from around the continent and the international business community. “Since 2012 CIMA has been changing the playing field with regards to management accounting firstly with the launch of the CGMA designation and now with the launch of the Global Management Accounting Principles which we look to promote strongly at the ACOA 2015 conference.” Developed jointly by CIMA and the AICPA, the Principles are the first of a kind blueprint and guideline for business professionals aimed at improving decision making. They were developed based on extensive research with executives from 35 countries which revealed that organisations around the world are struggling with data overload, dispersed workforces and the blistering speed of change. The four Principles focus on breaking down silos through influential communication, surfacing the most relevant information and reliable data for examination; driving analysis that reveals impact on organisational value and promoting integrity and trust that protects long-term sustainability. Louis added that “We believe that widespread adoption of the Principles will ensure that organisations have the guidance to strengthen and enhance the management accounting function within their organisations, hence it is so important for CIMA and CGMA to be amongst the thought leaders attending the ACOA 2015.”

Don’t blame clearing agents for delays –Igbokwu CONTINUED F R OM PAGE 27

then it is from the Customs side. The agents should not be blamed for it. What about the allegation that clearing agents cannot fill documents properly even when they are taught to do that? As an agency of government, when you find out that a document was not properly filled, would you work on wrong information or release the goods to the agent? You are in a position to reject the documents or the Custom Service can still arrest the agent for improper filling of documents. This is because it is expected that the agent should do the right thing by filling such documents properly or the agent is trying to forge the document for stealing. So we know all this. There is no way an agent will succeed with forged documents to clear imported goods in this country. Every information is in the Customs system that only a superior officer can sign or approve . What is your advice to anybody who intends to go into this line of business? The business needs patience. This is because it is not a place you rush in to make quick money. You can join the sector today and for years, you are not able to break even. You don’t need to be discouraged that things are not working well. But keep faith and continue to work hard. Also, allow God to answer your prayers by helping God to help you. Do your own work by being honest, sincere and truthful in the beginning. Those things matter in the business and people are watching you. Even some agents will invite you to assist them to do some of their jobs for them. When your colleagues know that you are not greedy and selfish, you will excel in the business through your colleagues. Obey the rules and regulations of the Nigeria Customs Service and those of other agencies in the sector. You need to understand how they work and relate to them very well. Mind you, education is very important, so that you can strive more in the sector. Don’t just believe that you know many uneducated people who have made money through the job and you believe that education is less important in the work. It is not true.

SUNDAY

BRANDS SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

With new logo, FCMB deepens identity value F Dele Alao

irst City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, a subsidiary of FCMB Group Plc., has unveiled a new brand identity with the change of its logo. The traditional colours of black and gold, which owners of the brand said, spoke to an exclusive audience, have now been replaced by a vibrant combination of purple and yellow, which they also explained, speaks to a broader audience. “Our logo has also been modified to be slightly less formal and more contemporary, yet retaining a distinctly FCMB feel, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, FCMB, Ladi Balogun said. He said the Bank has reached the height of its evolution hence, the need to refresh its identity. Balogun said: “We have reached the height of our evolution, and we feel we are now ready to wear a new look that is reflective of not only where we are, but also where we are going. Our long-term goal is to be the premier financial services group of African origin remains. At the heart of the group is emerging a vibrant retail bank that seeks to rewrite the rules of the game.” On the bank’s new identity and its future, the bank’s helmsman added that the future was intertwined with the collective future of customers. The FCMB boss said: “We do not believe that we can succeed if you (customer) do not. Hence, we will reinforce our position of being an inclusive lender. We will support sectors that will drive the prosperity of the markets in which we operate. We will bring greater accessibility to a broad range of financial services. By so doing, we will build one of the most relevant financial service franchises of African origin, providing the best customer experience. We are optimistic about the future and determined, whatever the challenges, to make this happen. “Our new look, whilst unexpected to many in its vibrancy, is reassuringly familiar. This not so quiet revolution is about much more than a look. It is an honest reflection of where we are, and a signaling of where we are going, together.” Meanwhile, part of the bank’s Unique Selling Point (USP), Balogun explained, was that the bank’s products provide practical solutions to the borrowing, saving, investment, and payment needs of customers. “Every month, we welcome 50,000 new customers and we disburse 20,000 new loans, with over 2,000 monthly to women owned micro-enterprises. Every month over 70,000 customers are registering on our mobile banking solutions that offer reliable and convenient ways to bank,” Balogun said. He added: “For us it is not just about numbers, but more importantly it is about you (customer). We have been investing in building a unique FCMB customer experience, defined by simple helpful reliable products and services, and professional and friendly bankers willing to go the extra mile for you.”

Our new look, whilst unexpected to many in its vibrancy, is reassuringly familiar. This not so quiet revolution is about much more than a look

Balogun

FCMB was incorporated as a private limited liability company on April 20th, 1982 and granted a banking licence on August 11th, 1983. On 1 July 5th 2004, the Bank changed its status from a private limited liability company to a public limited liability firm and was listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), by introduction, on December 21st 2004. As at December 2013, FCMB had 2 million customers, N1 trillion in assets, over 270 branches in Nigeria, a licensed banking subsidiary in the United Kingdom (FCMB UK) and a representative office in the Republic of South Africa.

Advertising, PR bodies set agenda for Buhari

he Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) has advised the President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, to review the current national communication architecture as part of his efforts to re-ignite the Nigeria spirit and positively project brand Nigeria. Buhari was elected at the March 28, 2015 presidential polls. The association’s president, Mr. Kelechi Nwosu, made this call in a statement made available to New Telegraph. He also congratulated the winner of the 2015 presidential election, General Muhammadu Buhari and commending President Goodluck Jonathan for his statesmanship for honourably conceding the elections in a manner that doused tensions across the country and boosted confidence in the future of democracy in Nigeria among global observers. He noted that as a neutral but patriotic body, the AAAN had actively promoted a professional agenda for issue-based, ethical, smear-free campaigning among the political parties. Nwosu said with the election over, it would be ideal for the incoming government to engage the professional support of certified specialists in the onerous task of projecting the immense potentials of the Nigerian brand. He also called on Buhari to re-configure the national communication architecture in other to give impetus to a robust economy, promote national re-orientation, inspire innovation, as well as enable entrepreneurship and create choice. The AAAN president additionally recommended that the new government should also pursue local content, affirmation policy and allow experienced professionals to run government communication to avoid the lack of public support and buy-in that trailed certain policies introduced during the current tenure as a result

of poor communication and engagement. From a marketing communication point of view, Nwosu said: “The AAAN would wish to propose nation building initiatives to the incoming government such as national re-orientation project. Nigeria needs a re-orientation project that will build civic pride, promote ethical values and get Nigerians believing in Nigeria and her assets. A corollary to this is to ensure that Nigerians begin to appreciate and support made in Nigeria products and brands.” The association also suggested that the incoming government should create a plan to inspire innovation, enable industry, reward productivity to make Nigeria a progressive and competitive economy. “This will provide the opportunity to grow many dynamic and respected Nigerian brands. Advertising is a critical tool in this regard because we help create choices that fuel the economy and even the polity,” Nwosu said. On local content and affirmation policy, the AAAN president said: “We will also strongly recommend a local content and affirmative policy that allows Nigerian professionals to do better business in Nigeria. We should moderate our consumerism, which drives importation and stop fueling other economies.” The AAAN helmsman implored the president-elect and his incoming administration to review the current communication architecture to allow for more professionals and better standards to be deployed across all levels and departments of government. This, according to the association, applies to the communication handlers inside Government as well as the external partners. In the light of the new reform in the advertising sector, the AAAN President noted:“Our advertising laws and regulations only allow for (Advertising Practitioner’s Council of Nigeria) APCON Licensed organisations to practice adver-

tising in the country. We would strongly urge government to uphold the APCON laws and regulations in this regard. We at AAAN wish you and your team well and will continue to provide our support as branding experts and communication specialists in ways that will expand and deepen peace and prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Similarly, public relations consulting firms under the umbrella body the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), congratulated Buhari on his victory. The PRCAN President, Mr. John Ehiguese, who described the presidential elections as being generally free and fair, and a reflection of the true wishes and preferences of the Nigerian people. He said: “We are also excited at the fact that the peaceful conduct of the elections has somewhat redeemed the image of our country, and look forward to Nigeria getting set to reap the huge benefits that will accrue therefrom. As the biggest economy in Africa, and arguably the choice investment destination globally, Nigeria now stands on the threshold of history, set to take its rightful place among the leading and fastest growing nations of the world”. PRCAN also appealed to General Buhari to, as soon as he assumes office, begin the process of commissioning a strategic nation-branding campaign that would ride on the immense goodwill that the country currently enjoys, and that will be planned and executed by a team of experts in the area of strategic communication. PRCAN is a sectorial body that caters for the interests of the consultancy arm of PR practice in Nigeria. It is legally backed by a Bye Law of the Nigerian Institute of Public relations (NIPR) and charged with the mandate of regulating PR consultancy practice in Nigeria. PRCAN currently has a membership of 50 PR consultancy firms.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

SundayBusiness/Brands

DSTV to rerun Airtel ‘Touching Lives’series

or television viewers who missed out on the recently concluded 13 episode, ground-breaking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) TV series, Airtel Touching Lives, DSTV, has announced a rerun of the reality television show on Africa Magic Channel 154. According to the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, the flagship reality television show has been a revelation that has set the standard in ‘needs-based corporate social responsibility’ and set in motion an unstoppable cycle of giving that has presented countless beneficiaries with the foundation to build their dreams and fulfill their aspirations. In a statement, Ogunsanya said: “Airtel

Touching Lives underscores our determination to enrich lives and contribute to humanity. It marks the beginning of a new journey in providing empowerment and a major lifeline for thousands of Nigerians.” Ogunsanya, reiterated that he was optimistic that the Airtel Touching lives show would not only resonate with Nigerians but would inspire the privileged people to continuously look for opportunities to assist the needy and the less privileged

in the society. He said: “Airtel Touching Lives programme is an expression of our commitment to alleviating suffering and offering real-time help to displaced persons, the hard to reach and the less privileged in the society. Airtel is part of the Nigerian society and we feel the deep pain and hardship confronting many in the communities where we operate. It is our hope that Touching Lives will offer relief to many and help us to connect emotion-

ally with the communities and customers we serve. “The Airtel Touching Lives initiative offers a platform to celebrate humanity, whilst inspiring hope and enhancing people’s quality of life. It identifies extraordinary people from all walks of life with dire needs and aims at fostering a culture of giving selflessly and nominating extraordinary individuals, who ought to be given a gateway to a better life,”Ogunsanya said.

Legend‘s activation platform berths in Ibadan

he Legend Taste and Tell activation platform has berthed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The activation event, held at the Gentleman’s Quarters, according to a statement, produced three winners. The winners are Moshood Saheed Abiola, Solution Oguniyi and Adekunle Adeyinka, Abiola, the39-year old native of Oyo State carted home a brand new 32-inch LED flat screen television courtesy of the Legend Taste And Tell Activation while Oguniyi and Adeyinka went home with a refrigerator and a generator respectively. The event, which featured rib cracking comedy from popular comedians De-don and Bash also had a special performance from Alapomeji crooner, 9ice. There was also live music from fast rising live band, Wale Zion, and a thrilling performance from Ijo Ishaga, a cultural troupe. Senior Brand Manager, Stout and Life - Nigerian Breweries Plc Funsho Ayeni, who spoke on the event night’s proceedings, said that the Legend Taste And Tell Activation was organised to reward loyal consumers. He said: “Legend has come to redefine the stout market. The brand has remained the fastest growing stout in the market. In fact, Legend is growing and gaining share in a category that is declining. We owe this to the loyalty and support of the consumers so we decided to say a big thank you to them through this activation.” After Ibadan, the Legend Taste & Tell train according to the statement, will touch several other cities across Nigeria.

Visa to start global media agency review

ayment giant Visa has begun a global media agency review for the first time in over seven years, according to people familiar with the matter. Omnicom’s OMD retained its U.S. account and added more international business during the last review. That review, which was also a global consolidation, came on the heels of a massive reorganisation in fall 2007. In November 2007, Visa tapped Antonio Lucio, as its first global CMO. Mr. Lucio, who now oversees marketing, advertising and communications as chief brand officer, recently announced that he’d be leaving the company to join Hewlett-Packard Co.’s printer business. His departure follows soon after the exit of Visa’s CMO of core products, Kevin Burke, who was hired by rising payments system Square in December. Visa and OMD did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Visa spent $113 million on measured media in the U.S. in 2014, according to the Ad Age DataCenter.

L-R: Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Rahamon A. Bello; Group Head, Retail Banking, Heritage Banking Company Limited, Mr. Davidson Regha; Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academy, University of Lagos, Prof. Babajide Alo and Group Head, SME, Heritage Banking Company Limited, Mr. Bayo Ogunnusi, during the annual Orientation Programme for fresh post graduate student in Lagos

Experts to speak at APRA 2015 Yaoundé confab

s the 27th edition of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) conference gathers momentum, more renowned speakers have joined the league of facilitators for the confab. The meeting according to a statement, will hold in Yaoundé, Cameroon. At the same time the organisation will celebrate its 40th anniversary. The confab parades an array of renowned speakers, including the Deputy Chairperson, African Union Commission, HE Mr. Erastus Mwencha, Cameroonian Minister of Communications, who is keynote speaker, Mr. Issa Tchiroma Bakary and a leading international public relations and public affairs professional and former Global President of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA). Dr. Roger Hayes. Also speaking at the meeting is Jeremy Galbraith who, in 2014, was named by The Sunday Times and Debrett’s as one of the UK’s 500 most influential people, and ranked among the top 20 influential professionals in the PR field. Jean-Léopold Schuybroek is the Founder and Honorary Chairman of the Interel Group, which is a fully integrated, international consultancy specialising in strategic communications, public affairs and association management. Themed ‘Africa Trending: Contemporary Challenges, Opportunities in Reputation and Crisis Management’, the confab, which is expected to draw attendees, speakers and facilitators from all over Africa, Europe, Asia and North America, will deal with such diverse topics as Global Tendencies in the PR Industry, Developing a Communications Strategy, Reputation Management, Effective Internal Communications/Employer Branding, Leadership & Communication as well as Crisis Com-

munication Theory, Case Study and a group crisis simulation exercise. The conference will attract over 200 delegates cutting across different communication sectors and professional groupings thus making it a ‘must attend’ for any discerning communication practitioner in Africa. APRA, formerly known as the Federation

for African Public Relations Association (FAPRA), is a non-governmental, non-political, and non-profit making professional association established to foster unity via interaction and exchange of ideas amongst public relations practitioners in Africa as a whole and through communication, promote social, political and economic integration on the continent.

Packaging fair under way Shola Adefuwa

n a bid to properly address the challenges in the Nigerian agrofood and packing industry in the country, the trade fair ‘agrofood & plastprintpack Nigeria 2015’ is bringing professionals from all over the world to discuss and show a way forward in the sector. The organisers of the event said that over 80 notable international technology leaders from 26 countries are expected to display latest technologies and proffer solutions for the Nigerian agrofood and packaging industry. Supported by the Institute of Packaging Nigeria, (IOPN), President, Mr. Mike Adekola, said that exhibitors come among others from Austria, Belgium, China, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Spain, South Africa, Switzerland, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and of course Nigeria. He noted that the presence of IOPN at ‘agrofood & plastprintpack Nigeria 2015’ was ideal for visitors who needed a global understanding of the food value chain in Nigeria, from the field to the final consumer including farmers, suppliers,

transporters and processors. The Project Manager, Market Development Africa at German Engineering Federation / Food Processing & Packaging Machinery Association, Ms. Martina Claus, said that a delegation of member companies would be showcasing the strengths of German engineering at the first international ‘agrofood & plastprintpack Nigeria 2015’ trade show in Lagos. Also commenting on the event, the Head of Delegation and Ambassador of EU to Nigeria, Michel Arrion, said that European suppliers could assist the Nigerian agrofood industry with machinery, equipment and technological know-how meeting a high degree of food safety and compliance with international hygienic standards. He added: “For this reason the European Union supports this important event and wishes that during the years to come it will develop into a leading platform for technological exchange in the areas of agrofood, food processing and packaging.” The event is organized by fairtrade Messe from Germany, in close cooperation with AHK Nigeria - the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY

Politics SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

The Sunday Interview

NASS amendment illegal, scandalous, says Falana p.32, 33

Interview

Conspiracy, defections worked against Jonathan, says PDP Chairman p.35 ‘Buhari should run an inclusive govt’ p.37 Orji

How Buhari will cut cost of governance – Senator-elect p.40

Yero

Govs and litany of broken promises

hen they set out after their inaugurations on May 29, 2011, the governors raised the hopes of the electorate and their staff alike to the high heavens about their readiness to provide dividends of democracy. They swore to give workers’ welfare and infrastructural development priority attention in their various states and received heavy allocations for this purposes besides their internally generated revenues. As new governments at various levels prepare their handover notes ahead of May 29, in this first part of the report, a retrospective exhibition of these promises, revealing that the new governors will inherit heavy debt profile, unpaid salaries and scores of abandoned projects.

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

Suswam’s unfulfilled promises Apart from his futile attempt to install a successor, Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam may be adjudged as “a failed governor” due to the myriad of unfulfilled promises in the name of his much talked about social contract with the people of the state. While some believe that the present administration in the state may have thrived on deceit and gross fiscal irresponsibility, others say that Suswam who, on assumption of office in 2007 vowed to channel state fund into developmental projects to turn round the state and leave enduring legacies on the sands of

As new governors prepare to assume offices in their various states in the next few weeks, correspondents, CEPHAS IORHEMEN, IGBEAKU ORJI AND IBRAHIM MUSA give an insight into myriads of broken promises of some of the outgoing governors. history, is today exiting office with a catalogue of unfulfilled promises. On assumption of office after an eight-year stint in the House of Representatives, he made public pronouncement on his resolve to make the welfare of workers and pensioners his top priority. But today, he is leaving office with five months unpaid salaries. Most of the workers have either died in penury or fallen sick due to non-payment of their salaries and entitlements. During his inauguration on May 29, 2007, Governor Suswam said: “In accepting your mandate here today, I pledge before you all, before my creator, the only living God I serve, that I desire to give my people no cause whatsoever to regret. I desire and pray that the Almighty God will make me surpass the achievements of my forbearers who have brought us this far….Our administration is committed to creating a transparent, honest and egalitarian society based on the rule of law.

“We shall therefore wage a war against corruption just as we shall insist on high standards of probity and accountability from public officers. This administration shall promote greater transparency in the handling of government business and shall insist on due process in all government transactions…For, according to Thomas Jefferson; one of the foremost of American presidents, ‘when a man assumes a public trust, he must consider himself a public property’. I agree absolutely with this thesis.” Sunday Telegraph gathered that as at June 30, 2014, the external multilateral debt of Benue State, according to the Debt Management Office was $28,791,949. 55. The big question the Benue people are asking now is how did we get here after the debt relief by the Paris Club and other multilateral creditors in 2005? Under the Federal Government brokered agreement, Benue State enjoyed a debt relief of $242 million from the Paris Club and £92 million CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2015 S

The Sun

NASS amendmen scandalous, says Human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, in this interview with CHIJIOKE IREMEKA says that President Goodluck Jonathan is right for rejecting the amendments to the 1999 Constitution as passed by the National Assembly. He said the amendments are scandalous In what seemed like a last-ditch face-off, President Jonathan has rejected amendments to the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly for some reasons, including provisions giving executive powers and duties to the Legislature and the Judiciary. What do you say about his action as well as the amendments? Well, I would say that some of the observations of the President cannot be faulted. For instance, the National Judicial Council is a recommending body, saddled with the responsibility of recommending the appointment of judges. That body has no power to appoint the Attorney -General of the Federation or appoint anybody for that matter. It’s empowered to recommend candidate(s) wishing to become judge(s) and such a body cannot assume executive powers by appointing the Attorney General of the Federation. So, the President cannot be faulted there. There is another issue, which I’m not sure that the President mentioned in his letter to the National Assembly. And that is the scandalous amendment that the former principal members of the National Assembly – the Speaker, principal officers of the House of Representatives, their deputies, Senate President and deputy as well as other principal officers will be entitled to pension for life. It’s so ridiculous. How can a country pay a 40 year-old man pension for life, for occupying an office for two or four years at most? Or even eight years? The functions of the National Assembly, to proffer respect, are part-time. They are not not full-time. The provision of the constitution is that the legislators shall sit for six months in a year; a period not less than 181 days. It’s only the President and the governors that are full-

time public officers. So, how can you ask the Speaker of the House of Representatives or the Senate president to earn pension for life for occupying an office for eight years? It’s not done anywhere in the world. So, for some of those reasons, President Jonathan is perfectly right to have rejected the amendments. But with respect to the argument that the amendment of the constitution required four– fifth members of the National Assembly is not correct. It’s only when you are amending chapter four of the constitution, which is the area dealing with fundamental human rights or you are talking about Section 8, which has to do with the creation of states. That is where the four-fifths majority and two-thirds majority of state houses of assembly is required. Also, with respect to other amendments of the constitution, Section 9 provides for two-third majority of the members of the National Assembly and the two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly. Again, the President is not right over the issue of education. The rights to education or basic healthcare in the proposed amendment to guarantee free primary education or right to basic health have been recognised by two laws already; they only want to constitutionalise them. As far back as 2004, the Compulsory Universal Basic Education Act has made education free and compulsory from primary to junior secondary school in Nigeria for every Nigerian child. The National Health Act 2014, which was passed into law last November and signed into law by the President himself, has guaranteed access to health care for Nigerians. So, if the NASS now or if the amendment seeks to make them constitutional rights of the citizenry, there is no basis, whatsoever, for the controversy that has been raised. Moreso, those similar recommendations were made earlier. In fact, the recommendation of the National Conference last year is that, there should be free education from primary to senior secondary school in Nigeria. And Mr. President has told everybody in his campaign that he is going to implement the recommendations of the National Conference. Also, the Federal Executive Council has passed a resolution that the recommendations should be implemented. In other words, the entire controversy over the constitutional amendment is totally unnecessary. What should have been done was, having noted some of these constitutional incongruences, the President ought to have met with the leadership of the NASS for the dotting of the ‘I’s and crossing of the ‘T’s because billions of naira have gone into the amendment of the constitution. Now, looking at the controversies, can the NASS override the position of the President and pass the amendments into law? No, in the interest of the National Assembly, the content of the letter of the President is to be taken very seriously. It calls for sober reflection. The National Assembly cannot afford to engage in any arrogance of power in this matter. It goes beyond overriding the duty of the President. If you haven’t been told,

write it too, that some of those recommendations are in conﬂict with the other provisions of the constitution, which they sought to amend. It requires the NASS members to go and represent them accordingly.

President is right because Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the constitution have drawn a line of dichotomy between the functions of the NASS, President (executive) and the judiciary and one cannot usurp the functions of the other.

The whittling down of the Executive powers of the Federation vested in the President by virtue of Section 5(1) of the 1999 Constitution; especially with your explanation on NJC’s appointment of judges and Attorney General of the Federation, were part of the reasons Jonathan rejected the amendments. What do make of the moves to whittle the executive powers? No, it’s not about whittling down of the powers of the executive; I’m talking of the legality of such moves. It’s illegal. The NJC is a body of judges and some senior lawyers to make recommendations with respect to appointment and disciplining of judges. Its recommendations are subject to decisions and revisitation of the President and state governors with respect to approval and removal of judges. NJC is not an appointing authority, so it cannot turn round and appoint for the country, the Attorney General of the Federation. That is an exclusive power, that is the prerogative of the President to appoint ministers and there is a procedure for appointing other public oﬃcers under the law but it’s not a judicial function because it is a mockery of the principle of ‘separation of powers.’ So, the

Now let us go to the issue of agenda for President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. What will you consider most important issues for him to tackle for the country at a time like

Falana

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

nday Interview

nts illegal, Falana this? No, I am not a member of the All Progressives Congress, so it’s not my business to set an agenda for them. The APC has a manifesto. The Presidentelect campaigned on the basis of the programmes and his manifesto. It is now left for Nigerians to examine those programmes and promises made by the President-elect during the electioneering and hold the President-elect accountable, vis-a-vis the problems confronting the country. It’s diﬃcult for me to set an agenda for the President-elect because it is the business of his party to do so. But Nigerians have a duty to hold the President accountable with respect to the promises made by him to Nigerians, while canvassing the people’s votes. Corruption is a major problem in the country and many faulted President Jonathan’s administration for not tackling it. What would you rather expect from the in-coming administration on the fight against corruption? The President-elect made that a campaign issue and President Jonathan’s wife also responded by saying that they didn’t want to go to jail. So, the issue of corruption was made a serious campaign matter in his campaign and I do expect that Nigerians will demand concrete actions on the part of the President-elect on corruption. Nigerians are ashamed of and embarrassed by the level of unprecedented corruption in the country. It has stigmatised the country in the comity of nations. Since the President-elect has promised Nigerians that he will attack the menace of corruption, Nigerians are expectant. Fighting cabals in the oil sector is an area the incoming Buhari administration is targeting. Is this a sectional fight or all-encompassing? The cabal in the oil sector is part of corruption we are talking about. It must be total. It must not be limited to any particular sector. Corruption has become more corrosive to the development of Nigeria. Also, you have corruption in the media as you and I know. There are

publishers who deduct taxes from the salaries of journalists but do not remit them to tax authorities. There are media houses that do not pay the salaries of workers as at when due. These are part of the corruption plaguing the country. There are also religious institutions, which are alleged to have collected money from politicians for the elections. So, it has to be total. It’s not just the business of the government alone to fight corruption. Our religious institutions, schools and everybody must be role models of integrity. The Central Bank of Nigeria has proposed the sale of oil assets in the country. What is your take on this? That is not the business of the CBN. The CBN has abdicated its basic statutory duty of acting as a bank to the government to ensure that the value of the naira is enhanced by mechanisms devised by it, and not by the International Monetary Fund or the World Bank, by ensuring that the only medium of exchange in Nigeria, which you can make any payment with, is the Naira. The CBN cannot dollarise the economy by what it’s doing now. So, what is the business of the CBN proposing the sale of oil blocs or assets? Is that part of its functions? I challenge the CBN to point to any provision of the law or CBN Act of 2007 that justifies what the bank is doing currently by meddling in the oil sector. So, what is the business of the CBN in advancing the argument for the privatisation of the oil sector, when Section 16 of the Constitution states that the government shall control the economy of Nigeria? What do you think of the outcome of the just concluded 2015 general elections? I have mixed feelings. First is the feeling of partial happiness that elections were concluded in spite of all the frustrations; the challenges and hiccups here and there, sponsored and promoted by enemies of democracy in our country. However, I am not very happy that over 125 people were killed before and during the elections. I’m more worried that those who perpetrated such largescale violence, including extra-judicial killings, may not be brought to book because we operate in an atmosphere of impunity. Again in spite of all efforts by the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct credible elections in the country, some INEC officials and ad hoc staff, colluded with some dubious politicians to falsify and manipulate elections results. The criminallyminded people were aided by soldiers and other security personnel in many states of the federation. In many states of the federation, aggrieved parties are going to the election petition tribunals. They are preparing their cases to approach the election petition tribunals for redress. This is another area of expenditure to the state and a setback to the development of the country. Having said this, I urge Nigerians to remain vigilant and ensure that the democratic process is consolidated. The incoming Buhari administration will have to hit the ground running because the expectations of Nigerians are high. In many areas of our national life, the country is completely on the ground. So, Nigerians, indeed, expect miracles from the incoming government.

Reps’ last fight with Jonathan From the

Green Chamber ternyam@gmail.com

Philip Nyam

ight from the outset, the relationship between members of the House of Representatives and President Goodluck Jonathan was never cordial. The lawmakers and the President barely tolerated each other. It began with the election of the speaker where the lower House rejected the zoning arrangement of the president’s party, PDP to elect Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal from the NorthWest instead of the anointed candidate, Hon. Mulikat Akande-Adeola from the South-West. The frosty relationship continued until it snowballed into litigations when the Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke refused to appear before a House probe committee investigating her alleged spending of N10 billion on chartered private jets for family and official use. In all of these, the President stood firmly behind the Minister. As I wrote today, that case is still in court. There are several other instances where the President and the House disagreed vehemently. In fact, at some point, a memo was said to have been issued by the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim directing heads of MDA’s to clear with the presidency before honouring summons from the National Assembly. Of course, the disagreements emanating from budget defence and considerations are normal. But the last fight however, is on the refusal of President Jonathan to assent to the Fourth Alteration to the 1999 Constitution, which was forwarded to him before the presidential election. The President stirred the hornets’ nest in a letter dated April 9, in which he picked holes in the document stating clearly that it will be “unconstitutional” should he append his signature on the amended constitution. Although, the House has referred the letter to its Ad hoc Committee on Constitution Review headed by the Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha for further legislative actions and advice, it is evident that the lawmakers would eventually veto on the document. Veto is the likely scenario judging by the comments and reactions of lawmakers in both chambers of the National Assembly. This is coming less than two months to the end of Jonathan’s tenure and there might be no other issue to fight over before the handover. Being a President who has lost elections and is not retaining his seat, it is glaring that the House at least, would give him a stout fight. For most of the time in the last four years, the House and the President have never been on the same page. It has been a cat and mouse affair. So, now that the president is as good as out of Aso Rock, there will be no retreat from the Green Chambers on this issue until the fight is won. There are other residual issues but the constitution amendment takes precedence over every other thing. The 2015 budget has not been passed up till today but it is a subsisting disagreement, which I believe may be sorted out before May 28, when he plans to handover to

Tambuwal

the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari. If President Jonathan does not resolve his diﬀerences with the lawmakers, their relationship will end on a sore note and this will not be palatable for the image of the outgoing president.

And xenophobia rears its ugly head

outh Africa, which suffered under an apartheid regime for years, has unfortunately become notorious for xenophobic attacks on fellow African nationals. These xenophobic attacks, especially against Nigerians are now a perennial occurrence and it worries every discernible being. It has happened several times in the past and the House had always intervened. But on this particular one, the House has advised the Presidency to act fast and recall the country’s High Commissioner to South Africa with immediate effect. The House condemned in strong terms the ‘evil’ actions of some South Africans in visiting violence and mayhem on other Africans eking out living in their country. The decision to recall the Nigerian envoy was taken after due consideration and adoption of a motion brought on the floor by the Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who expressed deep shock at the continued aggression by South Africans on other Africans. Abike-Dabiri as a person has done so well as chairman of this committee. She single-handedly brought the committee from its infancy to limelight. As leader of the committee, she has severally taken on governments of various nations where Nigerians are maltreated and discriminated against on the basis of where they hail from. It is saddening that Nigerians have continued to be at the receiving end in different parts of the world because of their industry and entrepreneurship. The Federal Government must not rest on its oars until this issue is effectively laid to rest.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Conspiracy, defections worked against Jonathan, says Lagos PDP chairman Capt. Tunji Shelle (retd) is the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Lagos State. In this interview with CHIJIOKE IREMEKA, he says conspiracy by party chieftains and poor handling of primaries cost President Goodluck Jonathan and the party victory in the last elections why many youths died in 2003 and 2007 because nobody wanted to pull back. If PDP were declared the winner, APC would have made statements that would have turned the country into fire. That’s what the President has tried to avoid. So, we should praise his courage for allowing peace to reign and for Nigeria not to be destabilised since the presidential election.

Shelle

What are your reactions on the outcome of 2015 elections, especially as it affected the PDP? The Independent Electoral Commission has done a havoc to the nation’s election. Many people will say otherwise, but INEC may have planned and influenced the elections for a particular party. Right from time of the issuance of the PVCs and introduction of card readers, INEC has shown that its role was suspect. The country had complained bitterly right from outset, saying that we are not ready for the elections. In the first instance, the card reader did not work optimally and it failed in the presidential election. And prior to this, the issuance of the PVCs was deliberately and tersely distributed in some areas. In the north, how did people access the same voter’s card in all regions within a week, while people in the south and west are yet to collect? These are unbelievable to me. In Lagos for instance, all the non-indigenes were denied their PVCs for a very long time. It was only after a long pressure that some of them were able to get their PVCs. Something is wrong somewhere and nobody seemed to be listening; rather they are apportioning blame here and there. INEC did not do well in these elections to a reasonable extent. Let me come to Lagos election. Several times, I warned the Resident Electoral Commission in Lagos, that elections normally take place in traditional palaces in different parts of Lagos, where they massively rig elections. It’s on record in newspapers, televisions and others. All these things were clearly stated that something is wrong somewhere. The police did not help matters. Police, INEC officials – whether junior or middle class may have been compromised. If we have to go back to crosscheck the number of people that voted through card reader then you can verify what I’m saying now. Let’s go back to record and know how many people that used that machine and how many of them that came for accreditation and how many of votes that came from some palaces. In these palaces, the PDP agents were denied access to collation centres and palaces. I’m saying specifically that we didn’t have agents at one of the palaces. The Obas and their chiefs were there supervising the thumb printing of the ballot papers and every other person was intimidated and couldn’t come near freely. Prior to this, the Oba of Lagos had threatened non-indigenes, especially the Ndigbos. Is it fair? The psychological effect is still there. Where 100 people had planned to vote, 50 would have chicken

out because of fear that they might plunge into the lagoon. I want INEC to go back to its records and check the PVCs that were not collected, and match it with the vote cast and you will discover that PDP won election in Lagos. For instance, about 900 votes were recorded at the palaces. Where did all these votes come from? And I made this known to REC from time to time and we discussed about it, even the police could not tell the INEC officials to remove the ballot papers from unauthorised places. It was difficult for the INEC and police to ensure that ballot boxes were kept far away from mosques, church and palaces. These were the tricks that took place in Lagos. I don’t know about other states. It’s not fair; it’s cheating, it’s rigging and we cannot take it. Why were there no PDP agents at the polling units at traditional rulers’ homes and other places that you mentioned? They were driven away. Even, our REC’s agents drove them away. You can go and crosscheck, even the press could not take photographs. I called the Channels Television, Silverbird Television and the NTA but they didn’t give them access. It was a question of intimidations, threats and harassments. All these things that took place changed the tide of electioneering in Lagos State. Before the election, if you had asked 10 people whom to vote, seven of them are likely to say PDP. How did we come to the place where we found ourselves today, but this is not the end of whole thing. We can’t relent until it’s over. So, what is the PDP going to do next? We are working on that; we have set up a committee and very soon we will let the public know what we are doing. What will you say about the presidential election, where ruling PDP lost to opposition All Progressives Congress? Well, like I told you, card reader was done to favour certain regions of the country against others. PVCs were given to some people freely who were not real owners but they allowed them to vote in the north. Apart from that, there were under age voters voting on the Election Day. But because the President wanted peace, and didn’t want bloodshed as well as international community involvement, talking to him on the implications of rejecting the result, he allowed it. PDP is not known for perpetuating violence in any form. This is

Having won the majority seats at all levels, the APC will form government come May 29. What do you think of this development? You will realise that those that won election for APC were the PDP members, from Benue to Sokoto, Katsina, and virtually all the states in the north. APC does not have capable leaders because they are using PDP members to win election. What an irony, meaning that APC doesn’t have a party yet. But I can assure you that PDP will bounce back. So many of them will soon realise their mistakes of conspiracy which I wouldn’t want to talk about now. This is an agenda, which I don’t want to go into because the details might not be palatable. It’s a plot to remove Jonathan from the office and they have succeeded. Would you say that the PDP members given mandate to ensure the party’s victory in the regions lack the power to do so, or that they worked against the interest of President Jonathan and return power to the north? I think your guess is as good as mine. I wouldn’t want to say certain things so that they do not further polarised the country. But there were an agenda and conspiracy. I’m sure you understand what I’m talking about. I hope we learn our lessons and Nigeria will be a formidable country and work with one another. That was the reason for the national conference. Why should people in the party work against their own party? It means that there is an agenda and conspiracy. So, I want to leave it at that. If I want to drive home our points, it might not augur well for our existence. Why was it not possible for those who failed in the party primaries to work together with Jimi Agbaje? All of them participated actually. Musiliu Obanikoro attended almost all the rallies that we organised likewise other people. Also, while working for Mr. President, he was working side by side for Abaje and others too. Apart from attending meetings where we discussed the way forward and planned for the elections, which he participated in some too, he worked actively with us. So, they all participated in all their local government areas where we discussed and planned for the elections. They participated actively. Nobody was left behind and none seemed to be angry. It was discovered that Chief Bode George wasn’t visible in this whole campaign, what really happened?

Well, he didn’t have to because the tide had changed, the energy is different now. But you can’t believe it, on regular basis, he closed our party meetings at about 4am; he was also attending to party members and those campaigning for the party, advising them among others things. There are other people, who come to his house on regular basis in the spirit of the election. There was no day he didn’t participate in one form or the other in the campaign. Don’t you think that by allowing those five governors to defect to the APC, your party actually shot itself in the heels? Well, probably the situation would have been handled better at the national body. Probably they would have seen the point and signs of that happening and probably, they would have known that some people wanted PDP out of the race. I’m just guessing, I’m not quite sure about this because the whole issue was based on ‘let keep him of the track,’ and eventually some caucus, who were working for either party, got rid of him in one way or the other. These are the issues. It’s a very complex thing to explain, but with time, history will reveal some of the hidden things that we can’t expatiate upon today. PDP seemed to have caused trouble for itself with the manner it conducted its primaries. Didn’t that work against that party? I think to a reasonable extent, it affected the party. The national body didn’t handle the primaries very well. It was not tidy. So many things went wrong and compromises here and there. As the party leader, I can’t speak in categorically terms but there were compromises here and there. There were a lot of flaws in the primaries. There has been a high level of defection from PDP to APC in the recent times. Is your party doing anything to forestall such drift? You can’t stop greedy people from doing what they want to do. They are not principled. They didn’t join politics to render services. They are looking for relevance. I don’t cherish their pattern of politics. If you belong to a party, you stay and protect it. Those who jump from one party to the other are the bread and butter politicians. I don’t want to talk about them because they don’t know what they are doing. If you left your party to join another party because they won election, then you lack principle and conscience. We should be able to balance conscious, principle and ideology in our political system. Look at what Aminu Tambuwal and Bola Tinubu did to PDP. The Speaker was zoned to South-West and presidency to South-South and North-West, the vice president, while North-Central, Senate President, SFG to South-East and suddenly, somebody put somebody behind Tambuwal. He used the PDP power and crossed to APC and contested for governorship. I don’t respect such individuals.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

Politics

Senate presidency: Considering Akume, Lawan options T

Sufuyan Ojeifo here is excitement in the polity over the victory of the All Progressives Congress in the March 28 presidential election, which has produced the Gen. Muhammadu Buhari and Prof. Yemi Osinbajo presidency. To consolidate the victory, the APC posted majority seats - 64 out of 109 - in the Senate. It also clinched the majority seats in the House of Representatives. So, Buhari’s party men and women in the National Assembly will be able to watch his back, so to speak. The fear of impeachment should therefore be non-existent. But this is not a sure banker. Validation: Ghali Umar Na’Abba was speaker of the House of Representatives on the platform of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party when there was friction in their relationship with the then President, Olusegun Obasanjo, also of the PDP. The same thing happened in the Senate under Anyim Pius Anyim as senate president when he (Anyim) was the opposite number of Na’Abba in the Upper House. Obasanjo was the rabble-rouser, the troublemaker, the agent provocateur who forced the Legislature to consider the impeachment option. Nigerians have been treated to so much political drama in the ecology of the Executive-Legislature interactions in the largelydominated PDP government: the show of presidential might; the high turnover rate in the leadership of the Senate between 1999 and 2003 occasioned by Executive interference and sponsorship; the attempts to coerce the Legislature into genuflecting at the table of the Executive for handouts; the culture of impunity nurtured and promoted by Obasanjo and all. Now, one is compelled by the outcome of the 2015 general elections to believe that change has come. It is expected that the APC, with its change mantra, will take the driver’s seat on May 29, this year, to offer different approaches and perspectives to governance and Executive-Legislature relationship; which is why there is the need for the APC to get its rhythm right from the outset, otherwise, it will unwittingly be viewed by Nigerians from the same prism with which they viewed government, governance and Executive-Legislature interactions when the PDP was in the saddle. Has the APC got it right with its BuhariOsinbajo presidency? Good question, but time will tell the rightness or wrongness of the decision to couple Buhari and Osinbajo into, and for an APC presidency. Second, will the APC get it right with the Presidency of the Senate, which I understand now engages the attention of its National Caucus? Time again will tell. But whether or not time will resolve it in favour of the Nigerian people is moot. This is because, the choice of a Senate president lies with the leadership of the APC, not with the Nigerian people. It is the man, the fait accompli choice that is packaged and delivered on the floor of the Senate on June 2 or thereabouts as the Senate president that Nigerians will live with. That is how it works. Being the majority party, the APC will use the strength of its number to choose the first among equals in the Senate. Who WILL the first among equals be? Again, only time will tell. But who SHOULD the first among equals be? I certainly have some ideas and suggestions about who SHOULD emerge from the gallimaufry of elements and tendencies, which are coming in to shape the 8th Senate, to steer the leadership of the Upper

Akume

Chamber as Senate president. From media reports, two geo-political zones are jostling for the plum position: North-Central and North-East. Both can justify their demand for the position. And either of them can, in the long run, get it. The zone which gets it is not much of an issue to me. What is critical is who steps in as Senate President in June, this year. Should the APC decide to cede the position to the North-Central, there can be no question as to the preeminence of Senator George Akume in the race for the coveted seat. I will explain why in a short while. First, in the pack of APC senators from North-Central, he is the first two-term governor (1999 to 2007) to win election into the Senate. He crossed over from the Benue Government House to the Red Chamber in Abuja. And he made the ambitious, if not courageous move, to be the Senate president. He, as a PDP senator, contested against the incumbent, Senator David Mark in the 2007 witty and gritty election, despite the gambit by the other camp to deploy the ranking rule against him. The rule was jettisoned on the floor on the day of the election to allow his participation in the exercise, which he lost, understandably, to Mark, who effortlessly won again, in 2011, this time unopposed. By this time, Akume had left the PDP for the Action Congress of Nigeria, on which platform he won re-election and emerged as the Minority Leader in the Upper Chamber. Second, he is perhaps the only former governor from the North-Central zone in the Senate, who is not carrying the baggage of money laundering or corruption prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. His candidature is therefore in apple-pie order within the context of the capacity to fight corruption,

Lawan

which is seemingly manifestly located in a Buhari presidency and which the Senate presidency is expected to complement. Third, he is much more experienced in terms of ranking among his colleagues from the zone. The fact that he has been the Minority Leader since 2011 gives him a strategic edge. Having performed creditably especially from the mid-term of his minority leadership, it will only be appropriate to reward a loyal and committed leadership by elevating rather than downgrading him by bringing one of the senators he has been leading to now lead him as Senate president. The best move in the circumstance is to push him up to continue his leadership, this time, of the entire Senate. After all, he has had his eyes on the Senate presidency ball since 2007; and by that token, he is assumed to be well prepared for the rigours of the office. Fourth, and this has to do with his individuality, is the aura of camaraderie which he exudes. Akume, a Northern Christian, is a jolly good fellow, a fact to which many of his colleagues have, over the years, attested. He is humble, unassuming, respectful and generous. He does not take anybody for granted and he is always touched by the plight of others, which is the reason he is extremely loved by his people who have continued to vote for him regardless of the political party he belongs. In the last senatorial election, a Tiv friend of mine, Lovetty Mackyur, told me that Akume did not print a single poster for his election as he has become a poster in the minds of his people. One thing that a Buhari presidency can rest assured of is the unflinching loyalty and complementarities of an Akume Senate presidency. Unlike some of his former governor colleagues from the zone who

cannot be trusted with power, who can betray their own people, this Tiv son is a rare breed with a very large heart. This predisposes him to quickly and easily forgive his traducers and forget the past. As far as the North-Central is concerned, the cap fits him. Providence, and nothing else, would have fully manifested and borne its name if another Benue man on the platform of another party takes over from Mark, who is also from Benue. Like Mark, Akume will deliver if he is given the chance to preside over the affairs of the Upper Chamber. As I round off, in case the APC leadership decides to cede the position to the NorthEast instead, my vote will go to no other person than Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan (Yobe North). He will come to the job with a background of public office that is devoid of corruption. A very cerebral legislator (with a Ph.D in Remote Sensing) and consummate contributor to debates on the floor of the Senate, Lawan has proved to his constituents to be dependable and trustworthy; and this perhaps explains why they have continued to vote for him since 1999. He was in the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2007 and he has been in the Senate from 2007 till date. He has just been re-elected for another four years. Like Akume, he has an edge in terms of credibility and absence of corruption baggage, over some former governors from the zone who may be interested in the position of Senate president. I only hope that the APC leadership, guided by Buhari as to how he plans to fight the corruption scourge, will consider very well all the options and settle for the best from either North Central or Northeast zone. •Ojeifo is the Editor-in-Chief of The Congresswatch magazine and wrote from Abuja.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Agbaje and Lagos 2015 governorship election Babatope Adewale

t was the late political icon, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who said, on being found guilty of treasonable felony years back in Nigeria’s dark political history, that it is not life that matters but the courage you put into it. That surely must be one of the reasons why some Lagosians have decided to make a folk hero of Jimi Agbaje, the PDP candidate in the last governorship election of April 11 who lost to the declared winner, Akinwunmi Ambode of the APC. The talk of the town in informed circles in the state, especially at Alausa, is that the PDP candidate has carved a niche for himself as the hero of the governorship election in the state. The talk is that even though he lost the election, the facts on the ground showed clearly that he gave the APC , the established party in the state for the last 16 years, a run for its money and gargantuan financial arsenal. Indeed, Jimi Agbaje’s performance and credibility with the electorate in Lagos State

has set tongues wagging that big heads will roll in government circles and the higher echelon of the APC on how an outsider to the government which campaigned for Akinwunmi Ambode in the state could perform so woefully while the PDP stole the thunder of campaign for so long and so effortlessly. Moreso, when this feat came about without any forceful disposition or intimidation which have been the tactics of the ruling party to make voters play ball and keep the government and its party members in power for so long. Some shrewd politicians and elders in the state have attributed Agbaje’s winning attitude and soft sell to his upbringing and family orientation which is that of a man with a family that is well to do and has a name to protect. With such a background, it was difficult to see him in politics at all, not to talk of formidably taking on the established politicians in the violent rough and tumble of Lagos politics and almost defeating them.

Undoubtedly, the defeated PDP governorship candidate gave APC leaders the jitters such that the Lion of Bourdillon, Bola Tinubu, was said to have persuaded party faithful to let bygones be bygones so that Lagos would not be lost to an outsider. Some are even speculating that the highly politically precocious APC leader and brain box may soon reach out to JK Agbaje in the new dispensation in the state or at the federal level as he was really dazed or dazzled by how Agbaje could have performed so well in the campaigns that he almost overturned political stakes in the state for the APC as presently constituted in its pyrrhic governorship victory of April 11, 2015. One thing is certain in Lagos politics and it is that it can no longer be business as usual for handpicking candidates for public offices; which was the bane of the APC primaries and overall selection strategy. The incredible performance of the PDP candidate, Jimi Agbaje, at the polls has surely seen to that. In addition, Agbaje’s suave and dignified

political challenge has changed the political landscape in Lagos in terms of recruitment of real and potential politicians or office seekers in the state. Agbaje has shown that decent men and women can participate in politics and make a difference by raising the bar in terms of respect for the rule of law and respect for the integrity of political competition and participation. JK Agbaje may not have won the election even though his party is going to court to contest the results but he has won the hearts of Lagosians with his fine outing and formidable posture and performance against the APC in the state. He remains the poster boy and darling of Lagosians well after his election posters might have disappeared from our collective view as we ponder ruefully at what could have been the light at the end of a dark tunnel for Lagosians had the election result been different. •Adewale, a public commentator, writes from Lagos

PDP chides APC over Taraba election Sabiu Mustapha Jallingo

Obaze

he Peoples Democratic Party in Taraba State has described those calling for cancellation of the governorship election in the state as bad losers, who are intolerant and unwilling to accept the wish of the people who have spoken through the ballot. Speaking though the party’s spokesman in the state, Mr. Napoleon Adamu, the party in reaction to the statement credited to the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress Sen. Aisha Al-Hassan, called on the APC to accept the decision of the people and the Independent Electoral Commission in good faith, and prepare for the run off. He said that APC’s intolerant attitude and penchant for propaganda and misinformation is destructive, unpatriotic and criminal. According to him, when APC won the governorship election in traditional PDP states like Plateau, Benue, Bauchi, Kebbi and Katsina, PDP never called for the cancellation of such elections. “However, we have observed that the party has taken the offensive in calling the cancellation of election Taraba, AkwaIbom, and Rivers states because PDP has either won or it is winning in those states. This is unfortunate and criminal,” he said. “In Taraba, everyone is aware that by the election results declared so far, PDP is leading by about 50,000 votes. Even in the local governments where election has been rescheduled, PDP had scored over 36,000 votes. Why would anyone call for cancellation of such elections?” He lamented that even in Akwa-Ibom, 10 youths corps members were arrested for massive thumb printing in the house of a retired Brigadier General who is a staunch member of the APC, yet the party is calling for cancellation of election because PDP won.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

Politics

‘Buhari should run an inclusive govt’ Chief Pat Ifeanyi Oramah is the DirectorGeneral, Progressive Friends Foundation, a non-governmental organisation which undertakes the task of promoting good governance and educating the electorate on the need to contribute positively towards peaceful elections. In an interview with journalists in Lagos recently, he spoke on the political process that culminated in the March 28 elections and sundry issues. Vanessa Okwara was there

ward if in assembling the men and women to work with, he makes it an all-inclusive team that will retain one or two members of the out-going cabinet, may be people like the Works Minister, Mike Onoloememe, Dr. Akinwunmi Adeshina of Agriculture and Chief Osita Chidoka who has brought some kind of Midas touch to the aviation sector, but unfortunately, was appointed only a few months ago. So far, the President-elect seems to be magnanimous in victory and it will do our democracy good if he continues in that spirit. Raking up the acrimonious issues that cropped up while the two major parties campaigned or embarking on political vendetta, will do no one any good. In PFF’s reckoning, who are the heroes of the 2015 elections? We have already mentioned President Jonathan, Gen Buhari and the committed electorate who braved many odds to cast their votes. But the other heroes are Prof. Attahiru Jega and INEC who did their best to give credibility to the elections.

Oramah

In what way was The Progressive Friends Foundation involved in the build-up to the elections and the exercise proper? Did you identify with any of the parties in any way? From inception till date, PFF has always maintained a non-partisan stance, and that was partly the reason why we were able to successfully carry out the self-imposed, but patriotic duty of promoting good governance in Nigeria. The Foundation is a non-governmental organisation founded with the goal of promoting peaceful and sustainable political culture. Part of the task we undertook was to play a critical role in building bridges of unity and love across various geo-political zones and across ethnic divides, especially as the political space was initially engulfed in bickering, recrimination and hate campaign. You are right if you say we embarked on a mission to bring to the attention of politicians and their parties the need to integrate into their manifestos the improvement of the welfare of the generality of the citizenry. With this in mind, we were determined to lend our support to any candidate who demonstrated a commitment to bettering the lives of the masses, and this was where President Jonathan’s performance in the past six years stood him out. How would your organisation rate the March 28 elections? To a very large extent, the polls were generally and comparatively free, fair, and devoid of the violence that many people had either feared or predicted. It was an election which for many years to come will remain a reference point for good reasons. We were pleasantly surprised to note, through the reports from our men out there in the field and from live coverage of proceedings by television stations, that Nigerians endured all kinds of challenges, including some cases of logistic inadequacies on the part of INEC, rainfall, like in Lagos, and scorching sun in parts of the north, to be able to cast their votes peacefully. That speaks volume on the commitment of the electorate to their responsibilities as per the elections. It was interesting that local and international observers and civil society organisations also described the process as credible, peaceful, free and fair, even as they pointed out that there were slight hitches here and there, which they believed did not vitiate the acceptability of the elec-

tions, but needed to be improved on as we move on to other elections, starting with the gubernatorial and state assembly elections held on April 11. What about the emergence of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari as the President-elect? We think the victory of Gen. Buhari was destined by God. In the build-up to the elections, PFF engaged in a lot of voter education and reorientation, and our reading of the political atmosphere was that it was going to be a close contest, with the PDP and President Goodluck Jonathan, having a slight edge due to the incumbency factor. But against many people’s expectations, President Jonathan lost to Buhari, and that has ushered in a new phase in the political history of our great nation. We believe that there was the hand of God in Buhari’s victory, and we wish to thank the Almighty that even the incumbent President that ran the race against him, graciously towed the path of honour by congratulating him well ahead of the official announcement of the results. This is un-heard of in Africa. You will give Jonathan a lot more kudos when you also recall that he provided a level playing ground for the polls to take place even when he was a contestant himself – something most incumbent Presidents on the continent won’t do. Talking about President Jonathan conceding victory to Buhari, there are people who believe the action took the wind from the PDP sale. They say the party may have lost the moral right to go to court. Such people may or may not have a point there, but PFF and indeed the vast majority of Nigerians, and even the international community, are looking at President Jonathan’s statesmanly gesture from more fundamental perspectives: one of which is the fact that God intervened through him to save the country from potential crisis. What people should not forget is that followers of popular political figures like Jonathan and Buhari are always watching the body language and listening to the comments of such leaders. And that was what played out the day the President congratulated his opponent. His supporters across the country took a cue from his action of accepting the people’s verdict calmly. The result is that today the law enforcement agencies are not

grappling with the riotous scenes that used to follow presidential election results. Again, following the President’s exemplary action, some PDP leaders who had one or two complaints to voice out, did so in a responsible and civil manner. With alleged threats of unpalatable consequences from ex Niger Delta militants should Jonathan lose and the burning and looting that greeted the outcome of the 2011 presidential election still fresh in our minds, it can only be imagined what would have happened if the out-going President did not decide to play the sportsman. The maturity displayed by Jonathan when he placed the survival of the nation above his personal and party’s interests, had a soothing effect on the polity and earned for Nigeria and himself the respect of the international community. That singular act which was unprecedented in the history of Nigeria has placed Jonathan among the most respected and patriotic leaders Nigeria and Africa ever produced. So, whether PDP goes to court or not is not as important as the effect of President Jonathan’s gracious congratulatory message to Buhari on our democracy. The party can still go to court. It is within its rights to do so, but even if it does, it will be devoid of the bitterness and tension that usually characterize such actions. What message do you have for Gen. Buhari as he prepares to take over from Jonathan? We think Gen. Buhari also deserves commendation for his conduct throughout the campaign leading to his hard-earned victory. Even while the controversy surrounding his certificate was raging and all manner of provocative comments were being made about his qualification for the election, he kept calm and continued campaigning in different parts of the country in a manner that suggested he did not want to be distracted. So, the two front running candidates exhibited exemplary restraint and maturity by remaining resolute and focused. While the campaign lasted, both refused to be dragged into any kind of verbal war between them. But, we are of the opinion that going forward, the President-elect has a duty to ensure that the new democratic culture that has been set in motion does not derail. He has the task of sustaining the momentum. For instance, it will be a good step for-

Talking about INEC and Jega, what is your NGO’s view on the card readers that were used for the first time in the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections? There is nothing wrong with the deployment of the card readers. I think it was part of INEC’s measures to eliminate malpractices from the electoral process and ensure the conduct of credible polls. And to be fair to the commission, the result of the (mock) trial exercise they conducted on March 7 in about 12 states in all geo-political zones, was encouraging enough to use them in the elections proper. We note the fact that there were some hitches here and there, but the failure rate notwithstanding, it has to be acknowledged that this is an innovation that we are not used to, and so such hitches are bound to occur. It is left for the commission to use the subsequent elections to correct the detected flaws. Why were there many protests arising from the National Assembly elections in your state, Anambra? If you look critically at the complaints, you will find out that they are coming mainly from the direction of APC (All Progressives Congress) and APGA (All Progressives Grand Alliance). But, I know that the truth is that the candidates who emerged victorious were those who had won elections in the past, and therefore, have solid structures on ground. So, it was not difficult for them to take advantage of these structures to beat their opponents. For instance, Distinguished Senator Andy Uba has successfully contested governorship and senatorial elections in the past. His structure is still intact. As a matter of fact, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw that an accomplished individual like Engr. Ernest Ndukwe, former Chairman of NCC (Nigerian Communications Commission) was running for a senatorial seat. There is no doubt that he is a good material. I think that, rather than continue to complain, what the comparatively new candidates should do is take it easy, gather experience and try next time. In the alternative, let them seek redress at the appropriate court of justice. What do you have to say on the Oba of Lagos’ statement on Ndigbo supporting a particular candidate in the state? If the Oba has been quoted right, it is very unfortunate. The relationship between the Igbos and Lagosians has been a symbiotic one. The Lagosians need the Ibos as much as the Ibos need them. It is a very unfortunate and disappointing threat from a man of the Oba’s standing.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Litany of abandoned projects, heavy C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

from London Club of creditors. Similarly, domestic debts to contractors in the state were drastically reduced by the previous administration. It will, therefore, not be out of place to state that Governor Suswam began in 2007 on a clean slate. However, within about seven years of the Suswam-led administration, the level of indebtedness of the state cannot be easily ascertained. There is no gainsaying that Benue State is an agrarian state whose population depends on agriculture for survival. It is therefore, sad and most unfortunate that the Suswam’s administration has neglected this important sector. Today, eight years into his administration Suswam, the people of Benue seem to regret their choice of governor because he has distanced himself from his inaugural speech. That is not all, the governor is believed to be singlehandedly responsible for the collapse of primary school education in the state. Though he had promised to accord top priority attention to the education sector, but the promises have turned out to be mere tales as evidenced in the closure of most tertiary institutions including the Benue State University which is currently on strike. The sector has been paralysed for the past months. Suswam has also failed to revive nonfunctional industries as promised. In the state today, industries like Taraku Mills, Otukpo Burnt Bricks industry, Benue Breweries, Katsina Ala Fruit Juice Company, Makurdi Sheraton Hotel, the Greater Makurdi Water Works among others just to mention a few, have either been leased out, grounded to a halt or taken over by reptiles. Various road projects for which huge sums of contract sum have been awarded have been abandoned. The governor had obtained a whooping N18 billion bond from the capital market to enable him fund what he described as ‘critical projects’ including: the reticulation and upgrading of water works in Makurdi, Otukpo and Katsina Ala; upgrading/ rehabilitation of Daudu-Gbajimba 48.50 km road; rehabilitation of township roads; construction Wannune-Ikpa-Igbor 36.732km road; construction of Oju-Obusa-Utonkon 51.48 km road; construction of TarakuNaka-Agagbe 61 km road as well as the completion of rural electrification projects among others which have been captured in the 2015 budget, have been abandoned and the money has not been accounted for. Some basic amenities which the Suswam administration has turned a blind eye at include electricity and the health sector where most general hospitals in the state have simply become mere consulting clinics. Worse still is the abandonment of contract for the rehabilitation of the state-owned media establishments like Radio Benue, The Voice Newspaper and the Benue Television project which has gulped about N628, 889, 919 since it was started more than seven years ago. The abandoned television station was conceived to enhance reception of interesting indigenous programmes and also promote local languages. The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Justin Amase said that construction work on the television project had reached 80 percent stage of completion. He said transmission and broadcast services were yet to commence due to defective studio and inadequate antenna height. “Permit me to underline the fact that concerted efforts to overcome these challenges are being pursued vigorously. Towards this end, I am pleased to inform you that the governor has graciously approved the release of the sum of N48.9m only for the completion of the project and for its license

Abandoned Greater Makurdi Waterworks

Abandoned Makurdi Sheraton Hotel in Benue State under Suswam

renewal and digitalization.” Amase stated. Worried by the absence of visible sign of take-off, the Benue State Assembly House Committee on Information and Orientation has resolved to launch a full scale probe into the circumstances that led to the delay in commencement of operation by the station. Abia’s litany of abandoned projects Governor Theodore Orji, of Abia State started some projects of which few of them have been completed. Majority are, however, either abandoned or never went beyond the inauguration stage. He has completed the workers secretariat, the e-library, the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency and the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia office complexes. Others like the new Abia Government House, International Conference Center, Joint Accounts Allocation Committee office are at various stages of completion. And they are not likely to be completed before the end of his administration. A huge number, however, have been abandoned. They include the road linking the new Main Market in Ubani Ibeku, the Alayi-Umuimenyi Road, the Ozu-AbamNdi Oji/Ndi Okereke/Arochukwu Road and the Mbom Amuzuku road. Only a few of the short roads, covering one or two kilometers have been completed. In the area of workers’ welfare, the story is not better. When the governor came to

office in 2007, he promised to improve the welfare of workers, including salaries and allowances, a first line charge. Coming from a retired civil servant, the workers hailed him for this. He also promised to ensure that the pensioners are not owed. The joy of Abia State workers was, however, short lived because after the general promotion of workers to the next grade level, payment of salaries and promotion arrears became a problem. The result is that today, most workers in the state civil service are either on strike or enduring the insidious pain of non- payment of salaries. Workers in the Health Management Board have been on strike for close to one year. Staff of the State Polytechnic, Aba, are owed salary arrears of over six months. All local government council staff are in arrears of salaries even as their promotion and leave arrears have become history. For instance, ASEPA, ASUBEB/teachers cannot remember how many months salaries they are owed despite the fact that teachers’ salaries are supposed to come from the national SUBEB fund. Similarly, judiciary staff strike has grounded activities in the courts since last year as part of protest at the national level of the Judicial Workers Union. Since the promotion exercise workers, especially the councils are yet to get their promotion arrears eight years after. This is beside the illegal deductions in the council staff salaries. The debt situation in the state is

inexplicably disturbing that even commissioners are owed. They find it difficult to perform even legitimate official functions, yet during the election, money was shared on daily basis apparently to buy the votes for the governor, his son and governorship candidate. It is perhaps in the area of road infrastructure that the administration failed woefully. All the road projects executed by the administration put together will not be more than 30km. Ironically, in 2007, shortly after the inauguration of the administration, the governor cajoled the elected local government chairmen into signing an agreement for a joint account with the state government to enable the state government undertake the infrastructure development in the communities, especially road construction and rehabilitation, that are beyond the financial and statutory capability of the councils. Though the joint account was supposed to ensure even distribution of projects across the state, not such has happened since then. Since that set of elected council chairmen left office till now, it is yet to be seen the number of roads or rural infrastructure undertaken by the administration. It was expected that the joint account would ensure that all the local government areas in the state will have one government project or the other commensurate with joint account fund. Since the local government chairmen left office two years into the life of the administration and six years after they left, the local government administration is being run by appointed transition committees. The implication is that all the revenue accruing to the councils are disbursed entirely by the state government at its discretion. And the local government revenue from the federation account is still intact yet the staff are being owed. It is disheartening that even some of the road projects the government embarked on were in all the 17 local government areas of the state. At a time, Aba, the economic and commercial hub of the state, became a national embarrassment. The deplorable state of both the federal and state roads made Aba a confused mass of potholes, flooding and ponds. It is on record that each time the governor attended any public function in Aba the people either booed or pelted him with sachet water. What the government’s “legacy projects for which it was so excited are actually CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

debts await new governors

Politics

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 8

projects the governor thought will lift him above his peers. Ironically, he is the most hated because he imagined that the projects all cited in Umuahia will make the people forget that the government did nothing for them. Even the people of Umuahia, who are considered the first beneficiaries of the projects, have shown their rejection of the governor and his party through their votes. It is actually misleading to think that the relocation of the Umuahia Main Market, the Industrial Market, the Mechanic Village, the International Conference Center, Government House will replace the expectation the people have of the government. What good, for instance, is any of these projects to the rural farmer in Umunneochi, who needs roads to evacuate his farm produce? How will any of the projects achieve the Millennium Development Goal Programmes where no community has any government water project? In some communities that are lucky to have water projects not done by individuals or organisations it is the Niger Delta Development Commission. Investigations show that the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, which received the 13 per cent derivation fund has no project to show for it. It is only popular for its school quiz competition which ended three years ago. The agency now replaces its cars regularly while the oil producing communities have some of the worst roads in the state. The dearth of infrastructure in the state is worrisome when considered against the background of the huge allocation to the state from the federation account, from subsidy reinvestment programme, the 13 per cent derivation, ecological fund, SUBEB fund, to mention a few. The latest trainees of the Federal Government SURE-P are stranded because the government cannot settle them. Even so, their passing out was tied to voting for the governor, his son and governorship candidate. And the paltry N10,000 monthly stipend which is irregular has stopped altogether. In addition to the filthy and degraded environment, multiple levies have driven prospective investors from Aba. Every conceivable item is taxed, yet the infrastructures get worse. Industrial concerns have to relocate to a friendlier environment with the attendant loss of jobs. The government sees development of the state as a favour to friendly communities, and even at that only a few have benefitted from it. Yero’s leaves N37.5 billion debt In the last two years since he assumed the leadership of Kaduna State, following the death of his predecessor, Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Governor Muktar Ramalan Yero has executed some projects but several will be left for the incoming administration to complete. In addition, the Malam Nasir El Rufai government will contend with bad roads, derelict infrastructure and a huge debt profile in the next four years. Interestingly, Governor Yero never promised anything to anyone as manifesto because he had neither campaigned nor stood for election. In 2012, providence had catapulted him to the governorship position. On May 5, 2010, when Dr Goodluck Jonathan, then Vice President, succeeded President Umaru Yar’Adua, following the latter’s death. Thereafter, Mr. Namadi Sambo, the then Kaduna State governor, was chosen for the number two position. Consequently, Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Sambo’s deputy, succeeded his principal as governor and Yero, the then Finance Commissioner, stepped into Yakowa’s shoes. On December 15, 2012, when Yakowa died in a fatal air crash in Bayelsa

Ongoing Kawo-Command Junction Road upgrade, which Governor Yero flagged off in Kaduna metropolis

State, Yero succeeded him as governor of Kaduna State. Significantly, on December 20, 2012, during Yakowa’s funeral, Yero promised to complete all projects his predecessor had embarked upon. However, people of southern Kaduna, Yakowa’s kinsmen, alleged that Yero has not fulfilled his promises. Instead, the governor has marginalised them by siting projects in the northern part of the state. Last June, Yero had the opportunity to clear himself of the allegation at Kafanchan, when Senator Nenadi Usman distributed relief materials to her constituents. According to him, it will be a waste of resources for government to abandon projects which were initiated by past administrations. Consequently, his government had budgeted N8.2 billion to fund ongoing roads projects in southern Kaduna Zone. “In Zone Three alone, there are 15 ongoing road projects that have been earmarked for funding in the 2014 budget. While most of them are at various stages of completion, our administration has successfully completed the Zonkwa-Yarbam road, Tum-Madakiya road and the College of Education Gidan Waya road,’’ he said In addition, the governor claimed that ‘’several other road projects have reached advance stages of completion. These include Jere-Kurmin Jibrin and Kwoi-Kafanchan road are at 74 per cent stage of compeletion, Wazo-Asso-Tanda-Gegira washout is at 92 per cent and the Zonal Police Headquarter-Kaduna State University Campus Access road is at 96 per cent state completion.‘’ However, Dr John Danfulani, a university lecturer and a fiery critic of the Yero’s administration, told Sunday Telegraph that the governor is pulling a wool across the face of his critics. Only a few of those projects, according to him, have reached those levels of completion Yero claimed. Danfulani listed Karatudu Bridge in Romi village, Asso Road in Jemaá Local Government area and Manchok-Mabushi road as well as Fadan Kagoma township roads as some of the projects that Yakowa conceived but were abandoned by Yero. Similarly, Danfulani listed Unguwan Maigero road, Kakau-Kanikan road in Ka-

duna suburbs as some of the abandoned projects. Naturally, members of Yero’s administration disagreed with Danfulani’s categorisation, arguing that ‘’the lecturer has pathological hatred for Yero.’’ Speaking to our correspondent, an aide who prefers to remain anonymous, promised that before handing over, the Yero administration will complete all the projects. However, it will be difficult to complete the Kawo-Command Junction road expansion that was flagged off four months ago. On January 15, Yero had flagged off the expansion of the major road that dissects Kaduna metropolis. The project, according to him, is aimed at beautifying the city and constructing a Bus Rapid Transit lane from one end of town to the other. Divided into phases, the first leg of the project started from Kawo over-head bridge to Lugard Hall Roundabout and it was awarded to MotherCat Construction Company. The contract, according to reports, will be completed within 15 months and will cost Kaduna State N3.68 billion. The second phase will start from Lugard Hall Roundabout to Station Roundabout while the final phase will terminate at Command Junction. Significantly, the contractors have already mobilised to site and have done one quarter of the first phase of the project. However, it is not possible, between now and May 29, to complete even this leg of the road contract. Apart from some unfinished projects, the incoming administration will inherit a huge debt profile and Malam Nasir El Rufai, the governor-elect, has been crying out since he threw his hat into the ring. Specifically, he accused Sambo, Yakowa and Yero, the three previous governors of the state, of piling the debt in just seven years. In 2006, Nigeria got a debt relief from its external creditors, El Rufai recalled, and what remained for state was its domestic debts. By 2007, the Ahmed Makarfi administration, according to El Rufai, had liquidated all the debts and Sambo, Makarfi’s successor, did not inherit any debt. However, in the last seven years, the three have piled a huge debt burden for the state. Domestic debts to local contractors, according to El-Rufai, is between N20 bllion to N30 billion but he didn’t state its external indebtedness.

However, the state government had countered El Rufai’s allegations. According to Alhaji Samaila Aliyu, the Finance Commissioner, the state never took a loan from London or Paris Clubs, so it couldn’t have enjoyed the 2006 debt relief. Similarly, the Sambo, Yakowa and Yero administrations also inherited ‘’huge debts taken by past administrations since the inception of the state in 1965.’’ The commissioner further claimed that ‘’In 2006, there was a reconciliation and sharing of debts obtained as far back as 1965, between new Kaduna and Katsina states.’’ At that time, the outstanding balance against Kaduna State was $84,995,475. ‘’These loans,’’ he said, ‘’do not form part of the debt relief from Paris and London Clubs. They are loans obtained from multilateral institutions such as the World Bank, International Development Bank and African Development Bank. As at December 31, 2013, Kaduna State was indebted to the tune of N37.5 billion, the Commissioner confirmed. In addition to debts and abandoned projects, the El-Rufai administration will inherit bad roads, derelict infrastructure and a state of general decay. Specifically, Alhaji Isa Ashiru, an APC gubernatorial aspirant, aptly captured the situation while flagging off his campaign on November 13, 2014. He said: “Our roads and infrastructure are as dilapidated as they have decayed. In fact, war-torn countries like Syria and Iraq boast of better road network. It is also a well known fact that Kaduna State lacks basic sanitation because its major towns have been taken over by refuse. In Kaduna town, stray animals roam the major high way and the roundabouts have become dwelling places of homeless people. ‘’ Good enough, El Rufai will not inherit debts of salary arrears as since 1999, the state government has been paying salaries to workers as at when due. Largely, there is industrial harmony between the workers and government but this cordial relationship was shaken on September 2011, when civil servants went on strike to press for minimum wage. Right now, the government has been up to date in paying salaries. In Nigeria, this basic right is a privilege in some states where governments owe workers six months salaries.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

How Buhari will cut cost of governance – Senator-elect Mustapha Bukar, a retired Director of Procurement, Ministry of Works, is Katsina North’s Senator-elect on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. The lawmaker, who is representing General Muhammadu Buhari’s constituency, speaks on a number of issues. JOHN-CHUKS ONUANYIM reports A number of people believe that many of you won the election because of the imposing figure of Gen. Buhari. Do you agree with that? To some extent, that is true. But in my own case, whatever we do has always been part of Gen. Buhari’s plans because we also stand for what he stands for. Therefore, it is not surprising that in many locations especially in the North, that when somebody wins a seat you can see clearly that he has some of Gen. Buhari’s followership. I know certainly that we have worked very hard by visiting all the 128 wards in my zone. I visited all the villages and delivered the message of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. We were all amazed that in any village we went to, even the smallest child will tell you “Sai Buhari.” That shows that Buhari has been a phenomenon from 2003 to 2015. I think this is somebody that has built democracy for Nigerians. Without Gen. Buhari coming into politics, I think that Nigeria would have been a one-party state a long time ago. I believe that phenomenon is true. We won all the senatorial and House of Representatives seats in Katsina State and that is not surprising because this is his home state. In fact, during our campaign, we were telling people that we don’t think we should be out in Katsina State campaigning for the General. It has been a wonderful experience for me. Do you believe that Buhari’s anti-corruption stance has distinguished him from others? His credentials speak for themselves and so, I don’t think that it is necessary to continue to lay emphasis on that. He has said it many times and everybody knows the positions he has held in this country. He told the world at the APC National Convention where he emerged as candidate that he had no money and it was based on his ideas that he was able to get the ticket of APC. So, the issue of corruption is real and everybody knows that in Nigeria, most of the institutions are not working. They are not working because the system that is supposed to be in place to make them work is not being respected. If you don’t follow due process and the rules, it will be very diﬃcult to get anything moving. So, it is like a moving train that is slowing down. I am sure that he will ﬁnd the strength with the support of all Nigerians to get that train moving once again. How true is the claim that the Presidentelect is too rigid and seldom listens to people? I believe that you have associated with him. Two weeks ago, you were in his house. He is a very friendly person and if you don’t come close to him, you will think that he is not friendly. But people think that you can be friends with people by giving them money or asking them to do something that is wrong. When he declines, somebody will think that he is not friendly. Gen. Buhari is a very friendly person. One thing I like about him

is that each time we talk, there are always a lot of jokes that would make you laugh and relax and make you understand that he is listening and taking your advice. You may say that he does not give you the answer immediately, but that is because he digests whatever you give him. He does not just take things the way you think. Anybody who is coming to a senior person like him would have thought through what he wants and if the outcome is not what he is looking for, then he thinks the man is not friendly. I think he is a very friendly person. Former President Obasanjo and former Speaker, House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, once alleged that civil servants are Bukar even more corrupt than politicians. As a retired director, how would you react to this? It is always easy to accuse the civil servants. But we must remember that as a civil servant or even as director, if you point out what needs to be done, you will be overruled by the political class because you are not the chief executive. So, tell me who is corrupt. Before you can steal, I know that you must have a willing civil servant to work with. But the point is that whether that guy is willing or not willing, it is the master that determines what happened at the end of the day. So, I think we have to tell ourselves the truth. If we want this thing to work, there are financial rules and regulations that we should follow. Those people you mentioned established the ICPC, EFCC and the rest of them. Why are these things not working? Whatever you have, there has to be the political will to get things moving. I believe we will get it from Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. If you get the political will from the leadership, everybody will fall into line. It has been said that the cost of governance is too high and your party tends to agree with the idea of reducing it. Would you support the cutting of allowances of government officials, especially legislators, to make way for funds for developmental projects? It is not the issue of allowances. I know that for several years, the government has been trying to find a way to devolve power. If you concentrate power too much in one arm, then you end up with corruption. Due process was brought in to checkmate some of the things you are talking about. But when you concentrate power on one hand, it brings a bottleneck. So, the waste that happens is not necessarily because of the allowances. It is because the government has been allowed to grow too much. I think several attempts have been made to streamline the organs of the Federal Government because there is a lot of overlap. When you have an overlap of functions, you end up just spending money with people just taking salaries. That is why I said that if you look at the budget, you find

out that recurrent is always more than the capital because there are too many organs that need to be streamlined. You have to look at the functionalities and not necessarily because I want to give people jobs. We have a lot of resources that have also been kept idle. Look at the pension funds. These are funds that can be used for infrastructural development if you have the right environment. The ICRC is there, but it needs to have the right law that will guide how this is done and we need to have the right policies. What is happening in this country is that we still have to develop the policies that we want in all the sectors. For example, in the highway sector, Nigeria is supposed to have a road reform programme that will enable us to have green field projects, that would allow us have roads that are motorable. We need to allow this system that will enable contractors to bid for road projects in an open qualitative bid, to execute the contract and you give him seven years. He will complete the road in three years and maintain the road for the next four years and you pay him according to the service level. That would have an entry point for private participation in the way we run our road network. Now, every year, after the rains, you find that the same road you repaired last year is in a bad shape again and you continue repairing it. But before you go into all this, you must have a road policy. What is the road policy of Nigeria? What is the tariff regime? What I am saying is that you need to have the right policy and the right strategy to implement these policies and a means to monitor those policies. That is why you have the Public Accounts Committee at the National Assembly. If you allocate resources to any programme, it is the responsibility of the National Assembly to find out how the work is done. That is why the job is given to a person who is not from the party with the majority, but somebody from the opposition. So, it all depends on the political will to implement all these things.

So, for the allowance, where it is seen as a distortion should be cut, but to me, what is important is the cost of governance. If a governor is travelling, you find him with about 10 vehicles. What are they meant for? Most of the security personnel that are supposed to be with the people are now with the big men. That is why the cost of governance is becoming too much and the productivity is low. You go to the Ministry both at the state and local government levels; nobody is working. They don’t even go to the office, because they have nothing to do. Civil servants are supposed to be moving files, but nobody is moving files anymore. This is because even the files are not there anymore. The local government chairman only comes to the office once when allocation is there. At the state level, nobody does anything except the governor. When I was general manager of the Water Board, I was getting my money directly and did not have to rely on the governor. I was doing what I wanted to do. But now, the general manager or even the commissioner has no power because all that has been usurped by the governor. To me, that is the area we need to look at before we can get things running. People have responsibility and they must be held accountable for it. The river basins are things that would have allowed Nigeria sufficiently function and be self-sufficient in food production and manage our water resources the way they are supposed to be managed. But we end up doing boreholes. What business has the Federal Government with sinking boreholes? I was director in charge of water supply and quality control in the country and that was one of the problems that we had. Boreholes should be left for local governments or at most, state governments. The Federal Government can just intervene and not going about sinking boreholes that it cannot maintain. We used to have cities in Nigeria with 24-hour water supply, but today, you can’t even find any. I know there is a population explosion, but I also know that those systems that were there are no longer functioning.

Life SUNDAY

SUNDAY APRIL19, 2015

Chibok girls: Hoping against hope Yekeen Nurudeen,

B Abuja

efore April 14, 2014, Chibok was a relatively unknown village in Borno State to a large percentage of Nigerians. Yet, it is one of the 16 local governments in the state and is primarily a Christian-dominated community with minority Muslims. However, 365 days after April 14, 2014, Chibok community in Chibok Local Government Area has not only been a household name but has gained global attention for just one reason: the kidnap of 276 secondary school girls by Boko Haram terrorists. When news filtered across the nation that the girls had been seized by the terrorists, not many believed the story. Coincidentally, it was the same day the daredevil terrorists struck at Nyanya Motor park, Abuja, leaving over 120 Nigerians dead and several injured. From that day on, it has been agony, frustration, despair and hopelessness for the parents of the abducted girls. And despite military and civilian vigilante operations to rescue the girls, not a single one of them has been rescued. Only about 54 managed to escape barely 24 hours after the sad incident. This explains why emotions were high across the country, particularly in Abuja and of course on Tuesday April 14, 2015 when it was exactly 365 days that the girls had been missing without a trace. A total of 219 teenagers known as Chibok Girls Ambassadors staged a solidarity march in Abuja on that Tuesday to identify with the girls, drum support for their rescue and draw global attention to their plight. When they finished the march at the Federal Ministry of Education Complex, where they carpeted government for not doing enough to rescue their compatriots, the teenagers gave the Federal Government up till May 29 to bring back the girls alive. The National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.), told a media outfit, PR Nigeria, in Abuja that same day that government would clear Sambisa forest in Borno State, where the girls are believed to be in captivity and rescue them alive. The Chibok girls’ parents, families and the rest of the world who are also grieved by their continuous abduction are hoping that one day the girls will return and if they are dead they should be accounted for. Chairman, Governing Council of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, who was among those who took part in the march organised by the main vanguard group for their safe rescue, #Bringbackourgirls (BBOG) in Abuja was also full of hope that the girls would be rescued. Odinkalu, who lamented the pains and agonies as well as frustration being experienced by the parents of the Chibok girls, said all hope was not lost. Government, according to him is a continuum, and as such, if the outgoing administration fails to rescue the girls, the incoming administration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari must take up the responsibility. But he said that government must account for the girls if they are dead, noting

I’m hopeful that they will soon be back as far as Gen. Buhari is concerned. We feel so sad, so bad even my wife cannot walk as she is. She is now under treatment. We are walking with drugs in our hands

that it is the right of every citizen to be accounted for in time of distress. His words: “These are young people, people’s children. We can’t just say may be or may be not. We’ve got to account for them. We’ve got to bring finality to this story. Either return them or account for them properly. “Government has to account for these children or return them to their families, to their community and then we would begin de-traumatising and addressing the issues that arise from their prolonged abduction. What we cannot do is speculate. “Government is a continuum. If the current government does not find them or account for them properly by the 29th of May, the incoming government takes that responsibility as its own and this demand will be transmitted until these girls are fully accounted for or returned to their parents. “This is a story beyond government and beyond politics. We’ve got to exercise responsibility as Nigerians. Wherever they are, I hope the message gets to them, that there are Nigerians committed to looking for them, committed to finding them, committed to returning them to their families and they must never lose hope.” Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Sean Hoy, and his Danish counterpart, Torben Gettermann, were also at the march and shared Odinkalu’s optimism. They both expressed hope that the girls would be rescued while conveying the sympathy and solidarity of their respective countries to the people and government of Nigeria over the abduction of the Chibok girls. “The most important thing with the Chibok girls is that they return safely. I have come today to offer our solidarity on behalf of Ireland to this campaign. Everybody in Ireland is thinking about Nigeria, everybody is thinking about the suffering from the Chibok girls and I know that from our president to the small children in Ireland, everybody is thinking today for the Chibok girls,” Hoy said. But for Rev. Enoch Mark, the commemoration of one year that his biological and adopted daughters were abducted was a painful day in his life. His biological daughter, Monica Enoch, and adopted child, Sarah Samuel, are among the 219 Chibok girls whose whereabouts are yet unknown. He has lost hope in the current administration of President Goodluck Jonathan which he linked to the abduction of the

219 teenagers march for chibok girls.

girls. To him, the government has not shown commitment to locating and rescuing the girls. But his hope lies with the new government to be formed on May 29 by Buhari. “This day is a painful day in my life. Our hopes and prayers for the Chibok girls are never lost. We are hoping that immediately Gen. Buhari comes into office, the girls will be rescued because I know whom Buhari is. “He is a man of integrity. He lives by his words and is active in actions, as he promised that his priority is security in Nigeria. There will be no security when the Chibok girls are not back. I’m hoping and praying that Gen. Buhari will soon be in office and I will soon see my daughter or we will soon see our daughters. “Everybody knows how this government is. There’s no hope in this government. There’s no hope. Had it been this government meant to transact business to bring the Chibok girls back, they would have done it. But really they are joking, they are playing. “I’m even suspecting that some government officials are among those who kidnapped our daughters. I know there’s no any problem that will occur in the country and it will last up to 24 hours without the

knowledge of the government. “The present government is so lose; they cannot do anything. They are not interested. We have no assurance in this government. My prayer is let them get down and let somebody come in. We are all displaced people now. We are the government. “It was during the time of election that they started saying they would do something. Had it been that they started fighting as they are doing now, Boko Haram would not have reached up to this time. I think government has a special agenda in the kidnap of our daughters and government might have a special agenda in leaving Boko Haram to do what they want to do. “I’m hopeful that they will soon be back as far as Gen. Buhari is concerned. We feel so sad, so bad even my wife cannot walk as she is. She is now under treatment. We are walking with drugs in our hands. We take drugs more than the food we take since our daughters were abducted. My wife is hypertensive,” he said. The cleric was not the only one who said he had lost hope in the ability of the Jonathan administration to rescue the girls. Dr. Emma Shehu, a leader of BBOG, said there was never any rescue attempt by the C O N T ’d O n PAG E 4 2

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Life

Woman remarries in husband’s home takes children, property away It was love gone sour, as a woman got betrothed to another man while still living with her husband in Lagos, FELIX NWANERI reports

hat could have prompted a married woman, Mrs. Ogechukwu Abaniwu, to contemplate another marriage while still in her husband’s house? That is the question on the lips of police detectives and many in the Igando area of Lagos, where she had been residing with her husband, Mr. Obinna Abaniwu, until recently. Abaniwu, who narrated his ordeal to Sunday Telegraph, said he was still in shock that his wife of over 11 years could perpetrate such an act while still under his roof in collaboration with his father-in-law. The Azia, Anambra State-born businessman said he was completely in the dark about what was going on between his wife and her new lover until recently, when the duo packed his belongings from his apartment, while he was at work. His words: “My name is Obinna Abaniwu and my wife is Ogechukwu. We both hail from Azia in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. We got married in 2004. The marriage was consummated in the traditional, church and court ways, and is blessed with two children, both girls. The first is 11 years old while the second is seven. “We have been living happily as a family since we got married although we did have issues at times like any other couple. However, when such issues came up, we did settle them amicably. But I never knew that my wife had gone to the extent of taking another man to her father, Chief Bestman Clement Onyedi, and a formal marriage introduction was done while she was still in my house.” The bewildered husband further said while this transpired behind him, the bubble burst on April 7, when he received a phone call from a neighbor. He said the neighbour wondered why he was packing out of his apartment without informing his co-tenants. “I was at my place of business on April 7, when one of my neighbours called to ask how I could be packing out of the compound where we stay without informing my co-tenants. On receiving the call, I felt shocked and rushed home immediately only to see a truck, which belongs to my father-in-law, in my compound. “I didn’t know that my wife and some persons sent by her father had packed all my belongings up to my tooth brush and were about taking the last few things when a neighbour sensed something fishy and called me. I quickly drove to the Igando Divisional Police and reported the matter. “It was in the course of investigation by the police that I found out that my wife and her new lover (David Iraboh), who is now on the run, had first gone to her shop at Gowon Estate in Egbeda and packed everything there, including freezers she used in running the cold room we have there,” Abaniwu said. He further revealed that from the statement made by his wife at the police station, the police were able to traced Iraboh to a church, Jesus Centre, Kuwait, Gowon Estate, where he was shocked to hear about the marriage plans as well as to discover most of the items taken away from his house and wife’s shop. His words: “When we got to the church in Gowon Estate, the pastor in-charge nar-

Lagos CP, Kayode Aderanti

rated how Iraboh came to him as a pastor who had an accommodation problem, but within a short time started bringing some home appliances for safe keeping in the church.” According to Abaniwu, the pastor said upon interrogating Irabor, he was told that the appliances belonged to his (Irabor’s) fiancée, (Mrs. Abaniwu). He added that the pastor told him that it was when he insisted on meeting the so-called fiancée that Irabor put a call to his in-law (Chief Onyedi), who confirmed that his daughter (Mrs. Abaniwu) was betrothed to the new ‘husband.’ Abaniwu said it was in the course of the revelation by the pastor that he looked around the church and saw his children’s laptop plugged to a power source. He also said that he saw his generator at the church’s band stand as well as one of his chest freezers. This, he said, prompted the investigating police officers to arrest the pastor and some members of the church. On what would have prompted his wife to take such an action, Abaniwu said an investigation revealed that his wife was hoodwinked by Irabor, who had earlier allegedly wrecked her business. He also blamed his father-in-law for his predicament. According to him, his refusal

“I also want the world to know that my life is in danger as my father inlaw has sworn to deal with me. This threat has forced me to abandon my house because I don’t know what his next plan would be because he has been blackmailing me,” Abaniwu said

to be dragged into an association by his father-in-law, made Onyedi to swear that he would destabilise his marriage and make life miserable for him. He further said that his father-in-law, in a bid to actualise his mission, bought and handed over a Toyota Camry car to his wife, on the condition that she packs out of his house. He claimed that Onyedi had maintained that he is not in the class of those who should be his in-laws.

Against this backdrop, Abaniwu cried out to relevant government agencies to help reunite with his children, whom he said, he has not seen since April 7. “I want my children back. The last time I spoke with them, they said they were holed up in my father-in-law’s house and efforts by the police to rescue them failed. He (Chief Onyedi) claimed to be out of town when we went there. He also told the policemen on the phone that he doesn’t deal with officers from small police stations, as he had referred the matter to Zone 2 police headquarters. “I also want the world to know that my life is in danger as my father-in-law has sworn to deal with me. This threat has forced me to abandon my house because I don’t know what his next plan is because he has been blackmailing me,” Abaniwu said The Investigating Police Officer,, who confirmed that the matter is before the Igando Divisional Police, told Sunday Telegraph on phone that some arrests have been made, while investigation is ongoing. “Yes, Mr. Abaniwu reported the matter at our station and we traced some of the items removed from his house to a church where some arrests were made. We are still investigating the matter,” he said.

Chibok girls: Hoping against hope CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 3 9

government. He said, “We believe there was no rescue. But who would rescue the girls? Our belief is that the incoming administration will now ensure that there’s a rescue, find out where things went wrong and then let the girls be accounted for, even if they are dead. That’s what every citizen must be accounted for in time of distress,” he said. The BBOG leader said it would remain a bad chapter in the history of Nigeria that 273 school girls were kidnapped and 54 of them escaped on their own because gov-

ernment could not rescue 219 over a year. He said, “I think for as long as Nigeria remains a country, this will be a very bad chapter in our history; that school girls, 273 of them, were abducted and that 54 on their own were able to escape from the hands of the abductors. Since then and up till this time, not a single girl has been rescued by the Nigerian government. It is an indictment of the outgoing administration. “It is an indictment of most Nigerians who believe the narrative of government that our advocacy was basically subversive to the administration. It is also an indict-

ment that we have lost empathy that at this point in time we lost empathy, we could not be our brothers’ keeper.” For his part, a native of Chibok whose seven nieces are among the 219 missing girls, Gabani Yanga, said what the people of his community amounts to disappointment. “Seven of them are my nieces. Gloria, Awwal Ahmed, her father was killed last week by Boko Haram in my village. We were disappointed by this government. We believe the new government that our girls will be back and alive,” he said.

celebrities like Kim Kardashian have made baby bump look like wearing well-priced jewellery. You hardly see fashion conscious ladies drape their bodies in loose dreary maternity wears anymore as they make you look frumpy while trying to conceal the bump. Today’s moms-to-be have nothing to hide. Modern maternity

come with pregnancy is feeling sexy. The trick is to find outfits that will make you feel feminine and attractive every day while you’re waiting for your bundle of joy. When you’re pregnant, comfort is one of the things you should be focusing on. Clothes that dig into your body or restrict you in any way are to be avoided.

While you’re still in the early stages of pregnancy, you can experiment with short dresses and ‘tricky’ shoes. A cute, flowing dress with a sensible neckline is always stylish and hot. You can also have fun with colourful printed dress! Little ruffled sleeves will cover any problem areas of your upper arms, and draw attention to your neckline. While

form shoes or wedges that are a few inches higher. This will make it easier for you to balance. Wear your hair down in flowing waves, and accessorize with metallic jewelry and cocktail rings and end up looking sexy and chic while pregnant.

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

What do you have under? Vanessa Okwara

Vanessa Okwara A man’s underwear has undergone an iconic change and is now more of a fashion statement than anything else. Underwear brands like Calvin Klein, Polo and Tommy Hilfiger have taken the male underwear fashion to a higher level as branded underwear have become a must for the fashionable male. The underwear is the foundation of any good outfit and care should be taken to choose the right one for every occasion. There are three basic types of underwear men can choose from: briefs, loose boxer shorts and tight boxer shorts. Briefs Briefs are old-fashioned and have been around for decades with brands like Fruit of the Loom as trendsetters in those days. They are practical and more comfortable than loose boxer shorts. Briefs offer great support to the genital area. It is, therefore, wise to suit them up when training or when your job requires sitting down for a very long time. Loose boxers Loose boxers

As for comfort, they are probably the most relaxed type of undergarment to wear while sleeping. They offer poor support and are therefore not recommended for training, or for those who remain seated the entire day. When sitting down, loose boxer shorts will wrinkle along the thighs. Wearing loose boxer shorts often results in clingy sensation, simply because the loose fabric ends up where it is not supposed to.

Tight boxers Tight boxer short also known as boxer brief is recommended for any man looking for style and comfort. All of today’s top designers carry a full assortment of tight boxer shorts. Many will say that they are intended for the use of younger men, but the tight boxer is becoming the underwear of choice for all generations. Tight boxers offer great support for training and for those who sit down all day. They remain in place, fit nicely around one’s thighs and mold the body perfectly. Some have found that excessively tight boxer shorts can be unpleasant as they don’t allow blood to circulate properly, because the genital area feels restrained. Tight boxers are the hot thing in underwear; they come with a heftier price tag than briefs or

Briefs

Tight boxers

loose boxer shorts. The next issue to consider is the material of the underwear. Men, just like women, should choose cotton or synthetic blends for everyday wear and save the more luxurious silks and other fun fabrics for special occasions. The newest synthetic blends are the way to go to prevent chaffing. You need to wear underwear that provides the proper level of support and utilizes a moisturewicking fabric. Never w e a r loose boxers, cotton, or go naked w h e n working out.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Body&Soul

Can you really be friends with an ex?

ou felt this incredible sense of connection when you met, fell in love and started making big plans to get married in future but for whatever reason ,your relationship failed to go the distance. In the midst of the pain, your ex says something bland like ‘Can we still be friends?’ What is likely to be your reaction?

Someone once said ‘Can we still be friends?’ is an old cliché used mostly by the dumper to try to lessen the blow and hurt the other person is likely to feel for months. Whether you’re dumping or being dumped, breaking off a relationship often leaves a sour taste in your mouth. It’s like a nightmare you will rather wake up from; even if you are not the one being chased by the boogie-eyed monster. It gets worse if you are the one being dumped because it fills you with pain, fear, rejection, remorse, pity and self-loathing. In most relationships, the time to say goodbye usually arrives at one point or another — unless you finally walked down the aisle. Friendships with former partners usually work when both parties accept the romantic and sexual relationship is no longer right. Unless both parties are truly over it, being friends has always seemed a bit tricky. There are certain scenarios where it is possible to remain friends. For instance, you grew up together, became childhood sweethearts and then sort of outgrew each other. You both agreed it was time to part ways, so the breakup was mutual. You took time to develop some independence and

CONNECT NG vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com are both dating other people. In this instance, the friendship can breathe and grow. The fact that the breakup and feelings were mutual is a good thing and the main reason why it is possible to forge a new friendship. Just make sure your new partner is ok with the relationship as well - as it is important to consider their feelings. The concept of ‘friends with an ex’ also depends a lot on what you mean by friends, anyway. Is it best friends, once a month lets-have-dinner kind of friend, once-in a while go- for a date kind of friend or once in a while phone/ text kind of friend? I have to take pains to outline the different kinds of friendship you could possibly have with your ex because still being friends with an ex can either degenerate into hostility or sparks can still fly as you constantly see or hear from each other. I had a friend who was still buddies with her ex even though he got married to another woman. She insisted nothing more was going on, but they would often text that they missed each other; she flirted with him constantly and they met once in a while for a ‘harm-

less’ lunch. The attraction they had for each other sparked off again and they ended up having an affair that affected the man’s marriage and relationship with his wife. Yeah, ‘friends’. They were just friends. Understanding your motives for wanting the relationship to continue is important. In my opinion, why waste your energy, time and feeling to stick around with your ex? There is NO way you can remain friends with someone you are in love with who does not feel the same way about you. It’s usually a big deal and prevents you from moving on with your life. No one will ever get all of you so long as your ex is still taking up space and emotional bandwidth in your life. It is opportunity cost that you use your time and energy to find a new one, a

The concept of “friends with an ex” also depends a lot on what you mean by friends, anyway

better one fit for you. All the same, if it doesn’t bother you to still remain friends with your ex, there are certain boundaries that have to be set to turn the old romantic relationship to mere friendship. For one thing, now you’re not together anymore you cannot expect partner privileges, such as being emotionally supportive because you’ve had a bad day, or dropping everything because you need a hand. The naked truth is that you’ve shared an incredibly intimate part of yourself, but now you’re no longer together, so don’t have ex sex, as you’ll never move on. This boundary has to be cast in stone if you want friendship with your ex. Also, stay out of your ex’s sex and dating life altogether. You cannot be each other’s confidants as it sends you both back into intimacy zone, which makes it harder to move on with someone else. Finally, to avoid dwelling on the past relationship, you can help yourself by filing your time with things that you enjoy such as hobbies and social activities. If it’s an amicable separation, it’s easier to stay friends. However, if it was an ugly break-up that has involved an affair or a betrayal, it is going to be hard to develop or re-establish the friendship. Unless the two of you were the best of friends before and have no qualms about either of you seeing new people, you’re better off leaving the friendship behind... along with the memories. •Send your views to the email above!

Writers, reading culture and technological advancement

n an era of technological explosion, the argument of a declining reading culture seems to be a tired and ineffective one. Anytime people say ‘we do not have a reading culture’, my first instinct is, ‘so how exactly do they navigate the social media? By swimming through it?’. However, I have come to realise, over time, that there may really be a point that I am missing. People tend not to read like they used to and the reading culture being spoken of here is the ‘traditional’ reading of book on the lap in a quiet corner and enjoying the content flowing from the pages of the book. I am of a generation that learnt via such a means and like many people in my generation, I miss those times. In my secondary school, publishing in Nigeria was at its peak and we benefited from it. I remember the ever popular ‘Pacesetters’ series. The trick was to try not to buy the same title as your friend or you end up not having anyone to exchange with. There were titles that changed hands so many times that we ended up not knowing the owner in my class. Now that I have firmly located myself in academia, I laugh when I see some of the themes being explored by colleagues. The Nigerian writers and indeed their counterpart from other African countries were exploring these themes decades ago in the Pacesetters series. Take for example, Helen Ovbiagele’s timeless classics ‘A Fresh Start’ and ‘Evbu, My Love’. The former represents my introduction and addiction to the series. The prose flowed so freely it dripped with pure sweetness. I wanted that novel to continue forever. I couldn’t stop discussing that book until

someone argued ‘Evbu, My Love’ was the best in the series and written by the same author. Needless to say I tracked it down and I fell in love with the author all over again. However, the themes of feminism and female empowerment discussed in both novels are such that it will take up an entire scholastic journal if explored in detail. Why is no one doing it? And the fact that the author is actually a woman is another reason to further explore the roles of women writers in contemporary society. Then, there was the ‘Mills and Boon’ romantic series. On this score, I proba-

Much as we loved books in my generation, the truth is, it is no longer the powerful ‘machine’ it once was. Presently, there are other visual devices competing for people’s attention

bly observed gender stereotypes at close range for the first time. While it was not a problem to read any ‘Pacesetter’ series novels, the ‘Mills and Boon’ were strictly for the girls and to be seen to be reading them was so unmanly. I must confess, I had to wrap a few of those novels in brown paper to be able to maintain my masculinity but I did read them all the same and discovered love was not the sole preserve of women as men were the objects of the protagonists affection. The point here is I read anything because they were readily available and we easily shared the books. Ours was the generation that loved books. Much as we loved books in my generation, the truth is, it is no longer the powerful ‘machine’ it once was. Presently, there are other visual devices competing for people’s attention. Strangely, they still need words to write out instructions, words to explain where to go for help and words to advise on how the entire machine functions and people need to read them; so we have not stopped reading, we only read differently. That is why things like e book are surfacing and more platforms to get them also springing up. It is up to Nigerian writers to

keep writing and take advantage of new technologies to get the ‘books’ out to the people. We also must work on making the books to be very qualitative in terms of content as I am not one for putting borders on books and reading, reading is about knowledge and it can be found in all genres of books. Even if the book is bad, it at least lets you know what not to read. I am of the opinion that reading is still alive, we just need to track it down using modern technologies. For Oronto Douglas and Gunter Grass The past week has been a sad one for the world of letters. Sadly, Oronto Douglas passed away after a protracted battle with cancer. I still have the autographed copy of his hard hitting, yet objective book, ‘Where Vultures Feast’ (Co authored with Ike Okonta). He brought that book to Nduka Otiono at the office of Post Express Newspaper and since he was going to meet Otiono later, he gave it to me for review. It was brief, but demonstrated the man’s outlook on life. I would later have a more extended meeting with him, also in the company of Otiono later and my view of the man never changed. Eco critical literature in Nigeria was defined by that book. Nobel laureate, Gunter Grass also passed away. I did not meet him personally, but had the opportunity of participating in a workshop he joined electronically at the German Book Fair in Frankfurt, in October 2002. A very astute man with some wild ideas, he represented the unbowed writer activist. I join the literary world in saying adieu to these departed friends.

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul with

Wole Adepoju 07037763410

woleadepoju@yahoo.com

Roli BodeGeorge mellows

Lola Edewor plans retirement

that Lola might after all be contemplating retirement from partisan politics to face her business and family.

side from t h e fact that late Chief M.K.O Abiola was a mega financial myth and was highly influential within Hon. Edewor and outside the country, his pivotal role in working for the return of democracy has no doubt afforded him a place in the history of Nigeria. Among the children of the martyrs of democracy, his first child, Lola Edewor, was the only one who leveraged on the name of their father to find her foot politically. At her first shot, she was fortunate to have secured a seat in the House of Representatives. But after her first term in the house, she could not return. Lola found herself in the political wilderness as all her efforts to find a way out were futile. Succour eventually came her way when she was appointed to head the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation. One thing she has however stuck to all along is her traditional way of improving lives through her empowerment programme. As a new government is expected to be enthroned in a matter of weeks, sources close to her revealed she may be getting set to quit. What will interest anyone the most about her, according to an insider, is

Segun Showunmi takes cover

xpectedly, all sorts of things have been happening since the opposition APC defeated the ruling PDP. While the country is witnessing an unprecedented mass exodus from the ruling party to the opposition, surprising defeat in governorship elections in many states has only made issues worse as series of discoveries are being unearthed. It’s as a result of these discoveries, Celeb Lounge learnt, that Segun Showunmi, one of the campaign heads of the Ogun State PDP governorship candidate, Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, has gone into hiding. During the post-election analysis within party faithful, where reasons why PDP candidate may have lost at the poll were being reviewed, sources alleged that it was discovered that Segun, who was the head of campaign in charge of Ogun Central, did not channel funds to the proper points. Showunmi Some political thugs were said to have been so

he lady known as Roli Adeniyi, like so many other women, has got physical attributes that stand her out of the crowd as a beautiful one. Not leaving her beauty as she was created, she is conscious of her looks and very mindful that what she puts on must sit well on her. This makes her more appealing not only to the opposite sex, but to folks of her gender who marvel at her ever stunning and radiant looks. Discovering the potential of her looks and her charming nature, beautiful Roli made it a conscious thing to position herself. Many would agree that this stood her out in the congregation where she used to worship at Pastor Kris Okotie’s Household of God Church. Years ago, her path crossed with that of Lagos-born political big fish, Chief Olabode George. One thing led to another between them and the rest is now history as they have since become legally married. This has no doubt elevated her status in the society. Light skinned and beautiful Roli, under the influence of her husband, delved into partisan poli-

tics. Almost immediately, under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party, has on a few occasions sought to represent a Lagos federal constituency in the House of Representatives. Contrary to what many had expected would be a smooth journey, the reverse was the case as she ended up being roundly defeated. She got compensated last year when she was appointed chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, where she has held sway for some time. As events take a new turn in the country, which obviously is not in the best interest of Roli and her husband, Bode George a.k.a Lagos Boy, the NDLEA boss may have begun to mellow. Against her tradition of being friendly on social media, Roli began to do away with many of her friends each time they condemned President Goodluck Jonathan’s government. Since taking a stand against the government is the in-thing, she has since been forced to withdraw into her shell. On the other hand, according to a source,everything the lady is said to have been doing lately at the office only suggests she’s preparing to put the job in her past.

much infuriated and made for Segun who was lucky to have escaped, but his car was damaged. Not knowing what might befall him, Showunmi, it was learnt, has since jetted out to the United Kingdom.

David Adeoye, a senior pastor at Royalty Christian Centre. She has since been savouring marital bliss. Distancing herself from the glamour which living on 2Baba’s glory would have fetched her to live a private life with her clergyman husband, Sunmbo may have set another pace and redirected her path. Being a hardworking entrepreneur, she floated an events management company, Esob Event, with which she’s gradually carving a niche for herself in that industry. Also, the lady may have set a new path for herself through her foundation. Under the foundation, she facilitates skill acquisition training and distributes empowerment tools such as sewing machines. She also engages in programmes where she distributes writing materials to students. As part of her programme ‘Inspiring Change with Adesunmbo Adeoye Initiative,’ which focuses on educating the girl-child and bringing to the fore a consciousness on entrepreneurship as the way forward. She sets up free conferences that inspire women to take the initiative in fulfilling their dreams.

Sunmbo Ajaba sets new pace

gbomoso, Oyo State-born beautiful lady, Sunmbo Ajaba, had quietly lived her life as a banker until her path crossed with that of music star, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba. They caught each other’s fancy and were entangled in a web of love. Their affair became public knowledge when Sunmbo was pregnant with 2Baba’s child. She followed that up with yet another child for 2Baba. By virtue of her relationship with the humble Nigerian music act, Sunmbo came under the klieg lights. At a time when Annie Macaulay, who Sunmbo eventually married 2Baba and another lady, Pero Adeniyi, who equally has kids for the man at the centre stage were jostling for the marriage slot, Sunmbo did not engage in the struggle for the hip-hop star. Rather, she chose another path and fortunately she was able to hook her own man in the person of

Lull in Bola Shagaya’s household

aying that Bola Shagaya is one woman who is not just the toast of her peers but one that hundreds of women want to be like, is like stating the obvious. This is because she has in her possession, everything that makes her one whom many will want to associate with. With the mind blowing success she has recorded in her business which made her one of the richest women around, the influence

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Body&Soul

Thinking

she wields all over is not something any one would toy with. To crown it all, her beautiful, well-shaped figure with a great carriage to compliment it makes her complete in her own right. Though she’s known to have hobnobbed with successive first ladies, her relationship with the outgoing first lady pronounced her incursion into the political world whereby she became a factor in her home state, Kwara. Bola had singlehandedly picked candidates, among which was her son, for the last elections. Things had been projected in a way that would bring joy after the elections but unfortunately, her projections did not turn out well. With the way events have played out, it will not be out of place to say all may not be well in the household of the billionaire woman. Aside from the defeat her party suffered at the national level and throughout her state, she also has personal pains to nurse with the loss of her son at the polls. Her son, Sheriff, was a Shagaya House of Representatives candidate. News had hit town that she was planning a dinner for the incoming first lady, Aisha Buhari. Sensing the damage the story may do to her reputation or paint her as a friend of Any Government In Power, she deployed her aides to refute the story. This is even as she has continued to battle with the negative effect it has had on her.

Remi Sijuade regales privacy

mong the numerous children of the respected and revered first class monarch, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, the Ooni of Ife, Prince Aderemi Anthony Sijuwade is not only a replica of the money bag traditional ruler, he’s among the most popular. With a nice frame, good looks, famous name and opulence at his beck and call, Prince Aderemi has proven to be one who cherishes his privacy a lot. Unlike his peers who love to make a noise about their deeds and announce their presence where ever they go, this unassuming Ife prince has been able to maintain a lifestyle that is devoid of noise. He’s rarely sighted at public functions; rather, he channels his energy to how to improve the family business he oversees. Armed with a degree in Management Economics from University of Essex, United Kingdom, Prince Remi, as the director, works in a construction and asphalt plant. The handsome prince who was born by Olori Oyeladun also has his hands in real estate, properties and oil and gas. As it’s said that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, Remi, a lover of exotic automobiles, finds time to hang out, usually in automobiles that leave mouths ajar.

Bilikisu Gambari lobbies Bukola Saraki

eautiful graduate of Liverpool School of Banking, Hajia Bilikisu Gambari, cuts the picture of a consistent personality. This is because as a politician, she has proven to be a person who doesn’t give up easily. Gambari, as a politician, has been interested in representing Kwara Central in the Senate since 2007 when she first gave it a shot. Unfortunately, she always met a brick wall in her ambition as she has always

contested against the Sarakis. Before the last elections, she lost at the PDP primaries. Information reaching Celeb Lounge has it that the woman may have started to lobby Bukola Saraki who is now seen as the Alpha and Omega of Kwara politics. In reaching out, she is trying to find out what role she would play when the next government is constituted. Meanwhile, she had allegedly put a price to what she had spent on her campaign Gambari when Bukola in January asked her to defect to APC. Sources allege that she may have been compensated for her expenses although this could not be confirmed.

Olisa Agbakoba in the news

ormer President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Olisa Agbakoba, may have become a hero in his own way, if information reaching Celeb Lounge about him is anything to go by. A dependable source revealed to Celeb Lounge that the legal luminary declined to be part of a plan to thwart the collation of the presidential election results. He was said to have kept the matter to himself until when the tension reduced and he shared the story. Congratulatory messages, we learnt, have not ceased to pour in from those who salute his decision and courage to stand his grounds.

Reconciliation tale trails Osoba, APC

ollowing the sympathy some are having for former governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, who came out empty-handed from the just concluded elections, there are indications that a secret meeting through which Osoba intends to return to the fold of APC is in the works. The facilitators of the meeting, we were informed, are trying to adopt modalities that will make the entire arrangement sail through. Osoba, it will be recalled, had been with APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, since 2003 when five of the six South-West governors, except Tinubu, lost their seats. Osoba, however, pulled out of the APC last year due to irreconcilable differences between him and Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, to form the Social Democratic Party. The party had a woeful outing at the just concluded elections.

Aloud

) 0807 270 9777

paulhelenproductions@yahoo.com

with Helen Paul

One year, still counting

mmm... it’s one year and some days now since the Chibok girls have been missing. Yet, the days are still counting because we have no clue about their whereabouts. This is a very sad development indeed. No doubt, it was a disappointment that the outgoing government failed to locate and rescue the girls from the hands of their Boko Haram abductors. As a mother, who knows what the pains of child labour and child upbringing are all about, I heaved a sigh of relief when Muhammadu Buhari emerged winner of the presidential election. It was not because I like him more than Jonathan, but because I listened to one of his campaigns, where he promised to bring back the girls if elected into office. Perhaps, Nigerians elected him on that premise. I feel that, at least, it will be a great achievement for whoever locates and brings back the girls to their respective families. In fact, whoever achieves that will be celebrated as a hero all over the world. But then, I have seen another reason to believe that all politicians are the same. Their modus operandi may only be different. A few days ago, exactly when it clocked one year that the girls had been missing, Buhari broke my heart, just like that of other Nigerians when he said his government could not promise to bring back the girls! I felt really devastated because that comment was a sharp contrast to the promises he made to all Nigerians and the world at large during his campaigns. Honestly, I try not to be disappointed because you can always expect anything from Nigerians, politicians in particular. They can promise heaven on earth during campaigns, but the moment they get to power, they promptly renege on their promises. Such is life in this part of the world where we find ourselves. I tried to put myself in the shoes of the parents, relatives and neighbours of the missing girls, who, perhaps, solicited votes for the retired General after hearing his campaign promise that he would bring back the girls. How will they feel now hearing him say something to the contrary? There is an adage in Yoruba that says ‘omo eni ku san ju omo eni sonu lo,’ meaning that it is better for someone’s child to die than to be missing. I can imagine the different thoughts and imaginations that would have saddled the minds of those girls’ parents. If the girls are dead (which I don’t

pray for anyway), the parents will mourn for sometime and recover, but that they are missing is another experience entirely. More worrisome is the fact that the parents have to nurture the wound till this moment, and not even with any hope of sort in sight. Wahala dey o! Come to think of it, where are those prophets, Imams and native doctors who claim to have all the powers in the world? Where are those native doctors we watch on Africa Magic who can disappear and appear to make things happen? Or they only exist on Africa Magic? Where are the prophets and Imams who always claim to us that they communicate directly with God? Are they all sleeping or they have just been deceiving people all along? In a country like Nigeria where people believe so much in spiritual powers, I expect someone to have used same power to rescue the girls, if they truly exist. I have been thinking aloud on this issue for a long time. Can’t the association of witches and wizards also do something about it with their powers? After all, Oyinbo men have witches and wizards to, but they use their own powers positively. Some of the results of it are the aeroplanes, computers and other things we call technology. But black men use their own witch and wizard powers to destroy fellow humans. They can be here in Nigeria and use spiritual powers to ‘control’ someone in faraway Australia, but they cannot ‘control’ ordinary Boko Haram here to release our precious girls. This is just my imagination. Those spiritual powers may not be true anyway; perhaps we have such a mentality about them because of the movies we watch. But in every nonsense, there can be some iota of sense. I’m just thinking aloud with my ‘jargons,’ but I’m sure there are lessons we can learn from it. See you next week.

I try not to be disappointed because you can always expect anything from Nigerians, politicians in particular. They can promise heaven and earth during campaigns, but the moment they get to power, they promptly renege on their promises

Body&Soul

Accessories

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Dazzle in scintillating red P

Vanessa Okwara erhaps you have been invited for anniversary dinner, going out with a group of friends for a party or simply going out for a special dinner date, you need to have the appropriate colour to dazzle and fit in perfectly. Red is one of the colours that turn outfits from bland to astounding. Red has an amazing effect on a lady. Men see you in red and the reasoning part of their brain blinks out. All they can think is she’s so SEXY. It takes your gorgeous-factor up a notch without looking like you’re trying too hard. As you go about shopping for an outfit for that special date this week, make sure you add a touch of red to your ensemble. No fashion look is complete without great fashion accessories. That doesn’t mean you should

go out in screaming head to toe red. One piece of accessory in red will readily do the trick. It could be something as simple as sparkling red cocktail ring, red bangles or a simple statement necklace in glittering red gemstones to add magic to your ensemble. You can wear red accessories with everything from a little black dress to an all-white outfit. Casual or formal, red can always make a statement. Fashionable red totes, small red handbags, clutches, red earrings and any other red accessories are perfect for Valentine’s Day. You can take your little black dress an octave high with red pumps. Brightly coloured fashion pumps are a wonderful way to draw attention to a pair of gorgeous shapely legs. The fact is red will add a splash of colour to any outfit, so go ahead and splurge yourself and dazzle in red as you enjoy a fab event!

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Wine & Dine

Ibukunoluwa Kayode

pple contains a number of healthy nutrients, that’s why most health specialists recommend eating one apple each day. But there are many people who prefer drinking the juice of apple to eating it in the

raw form. The nutritional value of apple juice is still at optimum when taken raw as well, provided that it has been extracted from fresh apples. The commercially available apple juices usually contain preservatives which cut down the nutritional value. Hence, mak-

Body&Soul

Toxin killer: Apple juice (2) ing what we like to call the real apple juice at home is the best way to avail yourself of the maximum benefits and nutrition. A recommended one serving of apple juice provides your body with high amount of vitamins, minerals and anti oxidants. With zero cholesterol and a very low quantity of saturated fats and sodium, it aids immune system ward off toxins in the following healthy ways: Make the bones strong and

healthy Apples offer a number of healthy nutrients including Vitamin C, iron, boron etc. These nutrients combine to make your bone structure healthy and strong.

tumours and cancer, especially lung cancer. Flavonoids and phenolic acids are proven to be effective for preventing the development of tumour and cancerous cells.

Boosts the immune system The Vitamin C in apple improves the immune system and assists the body to combat germs and bacteria.

Solution for constipation Constipation is a severe health issue that occurs when the large intestine absorbs too much of water. Apples contain sorbitol that offers a solution for this problem.

Prevents cancer Apple juice is the best defender against

apple juice Apple juice has wonderful advantages for skin and hair. It is widely used in natural remedies for treating skin related issues like inflammation, itching, cracked skin and wrinkles. Improves eye health The Vitamin A in apple juice helps to improve eye vision and prevents disorders.

Beauty benefits of

Crab served with green salad

Biwom Iklaki

ost people have noticed how much I love seafood and just last week, a reader asked for a healthy and fun way recipe for crab. Crab is very flavourful and requires simple ingredients that will not over power or drown its very distinct taste. Here, we will prepare a simple crab recipe with few ingredients and a green garden salad to up the refreshing ante.

INGREDIENTS 2 large crabs 2 tbs grated ginger 2 tbs garlic chopped ½ onion chopped 3 medium tomatoes chopped 2 stalks spring onions 4 tbs red bonnet pepper chopped 5 spoonfuls olive oil 2 tbs soy sauce ½ lemon Pinch of salt Salad dressing

½ lemon 6 tbs olive oil Pinch of salt

PREPARATION Warm up a wok with the olive oil, add onions, 2 tbs finely chopped garlic, 2 tbs grated ginger, tomatoes and pepper. When the aromatics are letting you know how great they smell, toss in the crab. Stir fry until the crab is starting to change colour but don’t allow the garlic burn. Add the soy sauce and pinch of salt. Taste

and add more of whatever will suit your tastes. Sprinkle the spring onions for garnish and drizzle the juice of half a lemon just before you set the wok down. Prepare the veggies for your favourite fresh green salad. I would usually do tomatoes, romaine lettuce (love that crunch), cucumber, and some olives. Whisk your dressing ingredients and drizzle over the salad and serve. Bon appetite!

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

The greedy dog

nce there lived a dog. He was very greedy. There were many times that he had to pay for his greed. Each time the dog promised himself, “I have learnt my lesson. Now I will never be greedy again.” But he soon forgot his promises and was as greedy as ever. One afternoon, the dog was terribly hungry. He decided to go look for something to eat. Just outside his house, there

was a bridge. “I will go and look for food on the other side of the bridge. The food there is definitely better,” he thought to himself. He walked across the wooden bridge and started sniffing around for food. Suddenly, he spotted a bone lying at a distance. “Ah, I am in luck. This looks a delicious bone,” he said. Without wasting any time, the hungry dog picked up the

Cross word puzzle

bone and was just about to eat it, when he thought, “Somebody might see here with this bone and then I will have to share it with them. So, I had better go home and eat it.” Holding the bone in his mouth, he ran towards his house. While crossing the wooden bridge, the dog looked down into the river. There he saw his own reflection. The foolish dog mistook it for another dog. “There is another dog in the water with bone in its mouth,” he thought. Greedy, as he was, he thought, “How nice it would be to snatch that piece of bone as well. Then, I will have two bones.” So, the greedy dog looked at his reflection and growled. The reflection growled back, too. This made the dog angry. He looked down at his reflection and barked, “Woof! Woof!” As he opened his mouth, the bone in his mouth fell into the river. It was only when the water splashed that the greedy dog realized that what he had seen was nothing but his own reflections and not another dog. But it was too late. He had lost the piece of bone because of his greed. Now he had to go hungry.

Creativity

The Children Art Club

he Children Art Club in Abeaokuta which meets once every third Saturday of the month, just concluded its exercise for the month of March. In the words of Pablo Picasso, “Every child is an artist; the problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up”. This saying must be true because they recorded an increase in membership participation this month. With the right guidance and stimulating environment, the children are helped to discover and harness their inner creative genius. It is free of charge and all the venues they visit as well as the

art supplies are free too. This month, the children created diverse works of Art on the following themes: Peace, friendship, nature and more. They worked with art media such as coloured pencils, water colour, crayon, collage, and acrylic. The facilitators, Mr. Yinka Olagoke, Segun Shorungbe and Prince Olusegun Adeniyi, appreciate the president of Olumo Art Movement, Mr. Kola Anidugbe, for providing the space used for the art engagement as well as the kind gesture of Olori Oyenike Adeniyi for the branded shirts for the facilitators.

Children expressing their creative minds

Gags Q: What does a nosey pepper do? A: Gets jalapeno business!

and a fish? A: You can’t tuna fish.

Q: What do you call a fake noodle? A: An Impasta

Q: Did you hear about the race between the lettuce and the tomato? A: The lettuce was a ‘head’ and the tomato was trying to ‘ketchup’!

Q: What do you call an alligator in a vest? A: An Investigator Q: What happens if you eat yeast and shoe polish? A: Every morning you’ll rise and shine! Q: What’s the difference between a guitar

Q: What is it called when a cat wins a dog show? A: A CAT-HAS-TROPHY! Q: Did you hear the joke about the roof? A: Never mind, it’s over your head!

MOYIN & FRIENDS

LITTLE LINDER

By Ayo Oyerinde

08034407393

By eei

SUNDAY

Faith 51

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

News Chibok girls offer hope to Boko Haram victims

Buhari should deal with Boko Haram, corruption - Bishop Oke

Interview

Bishop Francis Wale Oke is the President and founder of Christ Life Churches Worldwide. TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE takes him up on a number of issues

p.57

Some pastors’ wives dress indecently –Adeboyeku p.53

Sermon How, when and why of Easter (Part 2) p.55

What are your thoughts on the March 28 presidential election? The election was a watershed in the history of Nigeria. A lot of things happened. It was the first time an opposition candidate won a credible election and defeated an entrenched and established party. It was the first time a loser in the presidential election of Nigeria would swiftly call the opponent who won to congratulate him. Those two things are very significant. I want to congratulate Nigeria. Nigeria has won. It is victory for everyone of us - East, West, North and South. Before the election, we were praying and our prayer point among other things was that there would be no violence before, during and after the elections. It was a strong prayer point and we give glory to God that He answered our prayer. We give Him all the praise and glory. God told us how the elections would go very clearly

and we communicated it to the leadership of the church in Nigeria. Exactly what God said was what happened and we return all glory to Him. We once again congratulate Nigerians that we have won. There was no post-election violence and the nation has moved on. How would you describe President Goodluck Jonathan’s role in the election, especially his decision to congratulate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, before the announcement of the full election results? I want to celebrate President Goodluck Jonathan. The man has won. What he won was more than another term. He has written his name in gold in the annals of Nigeria’s history. The man has done what no other president or head of state has ever done. The singular act of congratulating the opponent has saved thousands of lives that would have been lost by now. Some people were ready for violence; to unleash mayhem on this nation but the fact that he called, conceded to the opponent and congratulated Buhari killed the fire. In that regards, Jonathan is a winner for all time and we celebrate him and thank God for his life. My prayer is that the Lord will give him long life so he can reap the fruit of that singular act. All over the world now, Nigeria is been celebrated as coming of age in democracy and it was through that singular act of President Jonathan. The whole world was apprehensive expecting mayhem, breakdown of law and order but nothing like that happened because of that singular act. I celebrate him. What of the President-elect, Gen. Buhari? I want to also congratulate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari who, as a dogged fighter, refused to give up. He tried it the first, second and third time and still refused to give up because he has a passion for Nigeria. I congratulate him and pray that the Lord will give him long life to rule and lead Nigeria to a new dispensation. I would also like to advise every Nigerian to follow the example President Jonathan has set. Let us rally round Gen. Buhari and his administration and join hands to build one indivisible united nation. Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Edo, Isoko and everybody should come together. The time of politicking is over; the time of unity has come. I would like to advise Nigerians, especially politicians, to follow the example of President Jonathan. This man has become a reference point. He has demonstrated to us that politics is not do or die affair. He has demonstrated to us that the unity and peace of Nigeria are paramount and more important than CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

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

Oke

All over the world now, Nigeria is been celebrated as coming of age in democracy and it was through that singular act of President Jonathan. The whole world was apprehensive expecting mayhem, breakdown of law and order but nothing like that happened because of that singular act. I celebrate him

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Faith

I’m not interested in public office CO NT INU ED F R O M PAGE 51

We need Christians that are upright, that can withstand temptation; that when you see money you won’t shake, you won’t compromise. We will be praying for Pastor Osinbajo that the Lord will sustain him, that he will make a real difference when he gets to power

the ambition of one person. Let us play the game according to the rules. We don’t want any breakdown of law and order. We don’t want any burning of houses, killing of people. No individual ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian. What advice do you have for the President-elect? Gen. Buhari has won. He should know that he won the election by the mercy of God, not by his power. It is God that gives power and God has chosen him to be the father of the whole nation. He should bring everybody together, from the east, west, north, south. He should reach out more than he reached out during the electioneering campaign, so that he will bring the whole nation together to be one united nation. The President-elect should know that he was not elected the president of the South, West, North or East; he was elected the president of Nigeria. We want to counsel him to deal decisively with Boko Haram insurgents and secure Nigeria. Let us deal decisively with corruption. Righteousness exalts a nation, sin is a reproach. It shouldn’t be business as usual. Let us deal decisively on the matters of the economy, particularly the fall of the naira. Let us deal with infrastructure, particularly the provision of power. We will be praying, the church of Christ will be praying. Gen. Buhari should never think that the church in Nigeria is against him. The church is not against him. There are people in the church who were told that Gen. Buhari was going to Islamise Nigeria and they believed it. They had reasons to be afraid because of the Boko Haram insurgency. But we assured them that that was not going to be the case. We know he will not (Islamise Nigeria). The church is standing by him. Politicking is over. Let us build our nation that has a glorious tomorrow. God bless Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, our beloved president. God bless Gen.Muhammadu Buhari, our President-elect. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. But prior to the presidential election, some people believed that Christian leaders were compro-

mised during the campaigns and that some of them received financial inducement to support President Jonathan. What is your take on this? Politics naturally is a divisive game; it divides families. There could be two brothers of the same mother and they are bitterly against each other. That is politics for you. All of that happened, not just with the church but every sector of the nation. What we are now saying is that the time has come for us to heal the wounds together and forge ahead. It is not for me to be complaining on the pages of newspapers about what happened with the church. By the grace of God, I am one of the key leaders in the church and I have a voice among my brethren. So, we know how we talk to ourselves when we talk to ourselves. We are coming together, we learn from our mistakes and we move forward together as one body of Christ in Nigeria. Vice President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, is a pastor. What do you think is the difference between church and politics? There is nothing that stops a child of God from going into politics. Prof. Osinbajo is not going to be the first pastor to go into politics. There is another prominent pastor in Lagos who is into politics. Every man to his own calling. God has vindicated him that He called him by giving him the opportunity to become the vice president-elect. So let everyman operate according to the call of God in his life. Like me, the office of the president of the federation is not appealing to me. The offices of the vice-president, honourable minister, senator, among others don’t appeal to me because God didn’t call me to any of them. But I would be wrong to point accusing fingers at somebody else who believes God called him to it. So let every man abide by his calling. If we say politics is a dirty game, it will continue to be dirty. We need Christians that are upright, that can withstand temptation; that when you see money you won’t shake, you won’t compromise. We will be praying for Pastor Osinbajo that the Lord will sustain him, that he will make a real difference when he gets to power.

Oke

12 Nigerian, Ghanaian Christians thrown into sea by Senegalese Muslims

he 12 Nigerian, Ghanaian Christians thrown into sea by Senegalese Muslims Italian police on Thursday said 12 African migrants had died after being thrown overboard by fellow passengers in the latest high-seas tragedy in the Mediterranean, AFP has reported. Police in the Sicilian port of Palermo said they had arrested 15 Muslim migrants suspected of attacking Christian passengers after a religious row on a boat headed for Italy, which is struggling to cope with a huge spike in illegal migrants arriving on its shores. The 12 victims were all Nigerians and Ghanaians while the 15 suspects came from Senegal, Mali and Ivory Coast. They were charged with “multiple aggravated murder motivated by religious hate,” according to a police statement. Distraught survivors, who set off from Libya on Tuesday before being rescued by an Italian vessel on Wednesday, told a “dreadful” story of “forcefully resisting attempts to drown them, forming a veritable human chain in some cases,” police said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Faith

Some pastors’ wives dress indecently –Adeboyeku

Shepherd of Celestial Church Christ Wonderland Group of Churches, Supreme Evangelist Okanlawon Adeboyeku, spoke with STANLEY IHEDIGBO on the 2015 elections and other matters As a minister of God, what are the challenges in the job? There are a lot challenges for a man of God. I experienced delay in child bearing and people even called my wife a barren woman. But God answered us after eight years of marriage. Again I tasted poverty at the initial stage of my ministry; but today, all that is history. I am very grateful to God for His mercies. Today, I assist people as if the God of heaven opened windows of riches for me. God is really blessing me. How did you feel when you had to pray to God to grant other people their heart desires when you had no child? I believe in the power of Jesus Christ and my word is patience. I prayed for them. Like Hausa people would says, if something happened to them and you are advising them on what to do and the kind of medicine they should use, they will ask you, if you have been treated with such medicine before. Meaning that experience is the best master. If I had not experienced late childbirth and I was advising couples on delay in having children, some who don’t have faith will not accept such encouragement or counselling. Then, I have witnessed it and seen the miracle of God. I’m a living testimony according to the word of God. No matter how long it takes, if you are committed in the things of God, worship and praise Him, then leave all your problems to Him alone. The churches are destiny builders, but what you see in our country in the lives of some Christian is discouraging. What is your view? The Bible says not everybody that says ‘Lord, Lord’ will see the kingdom of God; unless the people who do the will of God. so when you see those our Christian brothers and sisters who practise those evil things and come to church, they are hypocrites. They are part of ‘the church is good’ syndrome and they are not born again as our Lord Jesus Christ commanded, “Ye must be born again.” People should also understand that going to church doesn’t make anybody a Christian, but doing the word of God, which is against evil practices. Again, some of the problems in the country arise from the fact that churches no more preach the salvation of souls. They rather preach about how a jobless man or woman will make millions without a vision of how to make that million in their lives. Some churches have failed on the commandment of Jesus Christ , that we should go and preach the gospel and tell the people that the kingdom of God is at hand, so that they will repent from their evil ways . It is the church’s core duty to tell the people the way and manner to live righteously in the country. Are you a member of the Christian Association of Nigeria and what is your view on the disunity in the body? Yes, there are divisions here and there. They are as result of the worldly things the Christian leaders has embraced. People believe that when they make them the head of a group, they have arrived. Any-

Celestial women who put on trousers to church are a disgrace to the fold because it is not our standard; though, as leaders we are correcting them as part of our duty. Also, we have a disciplinary committee in the church that counsels them and disciplines those that deserve to be disciplined. This is because some female members are so stubborn

body who is a leader of a group should be submissive and allowed peace to rein because God is God of peace. When you don’t have peace of God in you then you are not a Christian , no matter the position you hold in your church, be it a bishop, archbishop, General Overseas or primate , is nothing . Also your attitude, character, behaviour and the way people see you as a Christian leader should be considered. Although the Christian leaders has changed their ways and turned to politicians because of positions. A lot of the leaders are political tools while our duty as clerics is to preach the gospel of Christ to the government leaders and not collect money from them. We should look them look in the eyes when they are not doing the right thing. My advice to the body of Jesus Christ, which is CAN, is to heed to the core duty Jesus gave them: ‘Go ye and preach the gospel to the people.’ This includes asking government leaders to repent and do the will of God. Don’t forget that this Christian group was disgraced by its national leader, even before God, when the issue of a private jet carrying millions of dollars to South Africa came up. My advice to other leaders is not to involve themselves in things that will bring shame to the body. There is this allegation that white garment churches perform rituals. What do you have to say about such? What I can only say about that is that whoever believes in our Lord Jesus Christ doesn’t need any sacrifice, be it in the churches or any other place. The only name given to us from Heaven is Jesus Christ. To be killing cows before you pray or for God to answer your prayers is very wrong and unacceptable before the church of God. It is not Biblical and such churches are not doing the will of God. It is very important for the leaders to change their ways and tell the people of the power of Jesus Christ, not the power of any sacrifices. It is observed that in Celestial Church parishes, the women wear trousers under their transparent white soutane. What does the Bible say about women putting on trousers? Although the world has now turned upside down, the Bible said through Apostle

Adeboyeku

Paul that woman should not touch what pertains to a man. It is still Biblical, just that the people are not accepting the truth. Rather, the churches are after large numbers, because the larger the church the more money the leader makes. It is even wrong for women to open their hair in church. I advise Christian women to learn from their Muslim sisters how to dress decently. That was how the early Christian women dressed and that is the will of God for Christian women. Now, even the way the wives of some pastors dress is alarming and disgraceful. On Celestial women who put on trousers to church, they are a disgrace to the fold because it is not our standard. As leaders, we are doing our best to correct them. It is part of our duty. Also, we have a disciplinary committee in the church that counsels them and enforces discipline where necessary. Some of our female members are so stubborn. When Satan is using such a person,

she will think that whatever she is doing is right. We pray for such people in the church always and with the help of the spirit of God, they do change. Where did you meet your wife? I met her in the church. She already had a message from God that she would marry a minister of God. And when the time came, we met and get married. How did you propose to her? With a Bible or ring? Our marriage was like that of Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible. The same way God directed them that they would met was how my wife and I met. So, I followed the rules and regulations of God in getting married. How often do you take your wife out? I take my wife out any time I’m free from work.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Faith

Choosing life over death Firm Faith:

Right Reason Most Rev.

Emmanuel A. Badejo fradebadejo@yahoo.

0803 949 4219 (SMS only)

Life is supreme Soccer, for many in contemporary times, is like a religion. Many people get completely enraptured by the rush of emotion during games, enthralled by the hype of soccer superstars and fascinated by the huge sums of money they earn. Many die-hard fans of the game make outrageous claims about their clubs and stars. The adulation of those stars often attains idolatrous levels, making those footballers feel like gods. A fair example was the case of Eric Cantona, former forward of Manchester United Football Club, who once got himself sketched out as Jesus Christ to the admiration of his hypnotised fans; though many people lamented the blasphemous act. Coaches and managers of football teams also share in the adulation and deification, depending on their level of success in the game. Imagine how refreshing it was to hear recently that the maverick and highly successful coach of Chelsea FC of the Premier League in England refused to adopt such an absurd soccer culture. He questioned the influence of footballers on society, saying that people from other walks of life deserve much greater recognition and status than are given to Lionel Messi and Christiano Ronaldo, currently the two world’s greatest footballers. “We don’t save lives,” he said. “I know that people can jump from a fifth

floor because their team lost a game but that person has problems.” Mourinho, a surprise advocate of good sense, nailed what many people have lost in our day - knowledge of the supreme importance of life in respect to all other endeavours and interest. God alone gives and takes life “Thou shall not kill,” so runs the Sixth Commandment. “Can any of you add anything to his life”? (Ex. 20; Matt. 6) Such admonitions from the Bible bring to the fore the fact that God is the sole controller, giver and taker of human life. Our society and environment are growing in disdain for human life, judging from the amount of killings and deaths all around. It is in order to reawaken society to the respect for human life at every stage and for the family institution which generates it that the Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province, last week, hosted an International Pro-Life/Pro Family Conference, entitled: ‘Protecting Human Life and Family Values in the Rising Tide of the Culture of Death.’ It held at the Pope John Paul II Centre of the Catholic Chaplaincy in the University of Ibadan, Ibadan. Advocating a new attitude to life and family The conference of about 1000 participants from nine dioceses called attention to the hidden dangers in the current general nonchalance to anti-life and antifamily values and practices in Nigeria. It also aligned people of goodwill with the intention of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, who has convoked two Synods on the means of sustaining and supporting marriage and family life, one of which was held in October 2014 and the other to hold in October 2015 in the Vatican. The Ibadan Conference brought together Pro-life, Marriage and Family advocates

Thou shall not kill,” so runs the Sixth Commandment. “Can any of you add anything to his life”? (Ex. 20; Matt. 6) Such admonitions from the Bible bring to the fore the fact that God is the sole controller, giver and taker of human life and resource persons, leaders, stakeholders from Africa and Europe and the general public to reflect with the Church in the Province of Ibadan on strategies for promoting the dignity of human life and the family as the foundation of the Culture of Life. The Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Reverend Gabriel Leke Abegunrin, at a press conference before the event said: “The present situation of continual bloodshed due to wanton killing, terrorism, inter ethnic conflicts, ritual killing, armed robbery, murders, traffic accidents and suicide in Nigeria seriously calls to question our identity as Africans and our civility as a nation. As general elections continue in Nigeria we feel compelled to speak up for respect for human life and dignity and the recovery of family values among our peoples.” Important insights on life and family • Every conceived child is formed and perfected in the image and likeness of God. Human life therefore begins at the moment of conception, and must be protected until natural death. Nigerians love life, they welcome children as precious gifts, celebrate motherhood and uphold marriage as a union

between man and woman. Every child therefore deserves a home and the love and care of a father and a mother. • Witnessing to the dignity of human life should include the defence of marriage between a man and a woman, the promotion of chastity, the campaign against abortion and all forms of artificial birth control, as well as the promotion of natural family planning methods while seeking to empower all Nigerians to live a more dignified life. • The family is God’s precious gift to humanity which ought to be continually cherished. It is the bedrock and foundation of the development of a better society because it has the primary role of educating children which provides formation of character and ensures ethical living. • The lie of same-sex unions must be considered grossly disordered, as a phenomenon which should never be given legal status in Nigeria. It harms the innocence of children, degrades marriage and family life and destabilises society, now and in the future. The Conference also called on government and good willed institutions to protect the family from Secular Humanist theories and lobbies which attempt to remove God from the life and practice of the general populace. “Government must recognise and respect the primordial origin of the family and do its profound moral duty to protect the weakest and the most vulnerable human beings from all threats. Professionals and practitioners of media particularly have a special responsibility before God in this regard”. May this laudable attempt by the Church to refocus our society on the sanctity of life and the family achieve positive results for the Common Good in Nigeria.

Oh Lord, trouble the king for my sake! Insight Rev.

Femi Akinola

www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

here are some buttons you need to press to get to the right people that will announce your destiny; this involves the help of God. All through the Bible, there are accounts of men that God fought for by arresting the peace (sleep) of kings for their sakes and the name of the Lord was glorified. God made such kings to be restless because it was the set time for His children to be favoured. I see the same anointing that made kings to be restless working out a miracle for you this week in Jesus name. By the word of the Lord, the help you need this year to ride on the high places of the earth shall locate you by the reason of kings (men) that God will raise for your sake in Jesus name. “A good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous,” Proverbs 13:22 (NIV). Three prominent personalities in the Bible witnessed the manifestation of this uncommon favour when God seized the peace of kings for their voice to be heard by men God sent them to. Joseph was sold into slavery. In the calculation of men (his brethren), he was meant to

perish in the dungeon of slavery but the Ancient of Days troubled the dream of Pharaoh for his enthronement. “After two full years, Pharaoh dreamed that he stood by the river (Nile). So when morning came his spirit was troubled, and he sent and called for all the magicians and all the wise men of Egypt and Pharaoh told them his dreams, but not one could interpret them to (him),” Genesis 41:1, 8 (AMP) This is a brief account of an unrest in the palace of Pharaoh crying for immediate resolution in order to avert a national disaster. However, there was none among his wise men, magicians and astrologers that could unravel his mystery. The Bible reports there was turmoil in the palace. This is the week and month you will receive the strange call from noble men and women that will make you a candidate of unmerited miracle in the name of Jesus. God confused the wisdom and strength of Pharaoh’s array of wise men for the sake of Joseph because it was his time of enthronement. This same miracle is taking place in your life and destiny this week in Jesus name. “And please remember me and do me a favour when things go well for you. Mention me to Pharaoh, so he might let me out of this place. Pharaoh’s chief cupbearer, however, forgot all about Joseph, never giving him another thought.” Genesis 40:14, 23 (NLT) When God wants to lift a man or change his situation, He does it without consulting men. Joseph anchored his hope of restoration on the chief cup-bearer of Pharaoh whose dream

And please remember me and do me a favour when things go well for you. Mention me to Pharaoh, so he might let me out of this place. Pharaoh’s chief cup-bearer, however, forgot all about Joseph, never giving him another thought he interpreted. Unfortunately, he never remembered him. Thus, there are so many you have assisted and you expect they would return the favour. But they have forgotten you while they are in their place of rest and abundance. The Lord that troubled the palace for the sake of Joseph and made the chief cup-bearer to remember Joseph will fight for you and your inheritance in that government office or establishment shall be released to you with ease in Jesus name. Have you ever been a blessing to that man in power but right now he doesn’t want to associate with you? I decree that the God of Joseph will trouble his peace for your sake and what is yours in his possession shall be released to you in Jesus name. There are levels you cannot access or get to in life unless by God’s intervention. For you to get to the top, God must trouble those at the top; there must be a shaking.

When Pharaoh sent for Joseph, he interpreted his dreams. When he finished, he did not go back empty-handed because it was time for him to be lifted. “Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the entire land of Egypt.” Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his hand and placed it on Joseph’s finger. He dressed him in fine linen clothing and hung a gold chain around his neck. Then he had Joseph ride in the chariot reserved for his second-in-command. And wherever Joseph went, the command was shouted, “Kneel down!” So Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of all Egypt. And Pharaoh said to him, “I am Pharaoh, but no one will lift a hand or foot in the entire land of Egypt without your approval.” Then Pharaoh gave Joseph a new Egyptian name, Zaphenath-paneah. He also gave him a wife, whose name was Asenath. She was the daughter of Potiphera, the priest of On, so Joseph took charge of the entire land of Egypt.” Genesis 41:41-45 (NLT) Pharaoh made Joseph a governor and gave him everything that he couldn’t get, perhaps in his life time. What a breakthrough! God intercepted the dream of Pharaoh for the sake of a faithful and committed young man who had been forgotten and left to rot in the prison. At the end he was beautified; so also I see God taking the sleep of the people holding what belongs to you and any ‘king’ holding your wife, visa, blessing, testimony or what will take you to the next level, throughout this week, I withdraw their sleep in the name of Jesus. To be continued…….

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Faith

Yet in my flesh Mystery ofAnxiety Bishop

John Ogbansiegbe

0803 341 6327

f a truth, the righteous shall fall seven times and yet rise again. And how many times have you failed? How many times have you been disappointed? May be twice or thrice? Is it up to seven times? Even if it is seven times or 70 times, you shall rise again. No wonder why the word of God declared: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivereth him out of them all” - Psalm 34:19. This was the reason why Job in the climax of his misery and affliction declared, “ For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth, and though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God” – Job 19:25. God gave man a second chance, when he failed in the Garden of Eden by eating the forbidden fruit, through the gift

of the second Adam, in the person of His son Jesus Christ. Thus the word of God recorded in I Corinthians 15:21-22: “For since by man came death, by man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all died, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” Also, 1 Corinthians 15:45-48 says: “And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly.” God shall give you another chance and you shall rise again. Listen and meditate on this scripture, “He that spared not His son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things – Romans 8:32. He shall give you another chance because He is a covenant keeping God. “Zion said, the Lord hath forsaken me, my Lord hath forgotten me. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my

So whatever promises God had made to you must come to pass. Whether they came through prophetic utterances from men of God, dreams or revelations, hold unto them tenaciously, they shall surely come to pass

hands, thy walls are continually before me (Isaiah 49:14-16). God is not like man who can be forgetful. The people of Zion like many people in our world today concluded that God had forgotten them. God therefore reacted to such an erroneous idea. The question is: How can God ever forget someone whose whole personality has been purposely engraved in the palms of His hands, and whose image is continually before Him? God’s words and promises are a reflection of His very nature. He is not a man that He should lie. God’s word is God and God is His word. His word goes where God wants to go, and becomes what God wants to become. His word is the totality of His image and personality. If He sends His word,

it means He Himself arrived at the same place with His word; but in form of His word. This was why the word of God said, “For all the promises of God in Him are yea and in Him Amen unto the glory of God by us” – 2 Corinthians 1:20. This scripture means that God is His promises and His promises are His personality. He is the yea and also the Amen. Hellelujah! He is the uncreated creator. He is the unchanging changer. His words, once they are uttered, they hover around, alongside with God-like living forces until their missions are accomplished. So whatever promises God had made to you must come to pass. Whether they came through prophetic utterances from men of God, dreams or revelations, hold unto them tenaciously, they shall surely come to pass. This was why the word of God declared: “For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but waterth the earth, and maketh it bring firth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth, it shall not return unto me void, but shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereunto I sent it,” Isaiah 10:11.

How, when and why of Easter (Part 2) the of

Oracles God

Frank Oboden Olomukoro frankolomukoro@yahoo.com

0703 362 1866

e have seen how church tradition by church fathers evolved into the annual Easter observance without due consideration to the authority of the Word of God. Read about it “…the emperor convened a council of 318 bishops in the first Council of Nicea in 325AD in the city of Nicea… They passed certain ecclesiastical canons at the council besides, and at the same time decreed in regard to the Passover that there must be one unanimous concord on the celebration of God’s Holy and supremely excellent day.” This audacity and impunity of the Roman power/church to change times and Laws was already spoken of by God in Daniel 7:25. “And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and Laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.” We are all too aware of how the time of the birth of Jesus Christ the Son of God was changed by substitution for the day the sun god was worshipped by Pagan Rome annually; that is December 25. Christians observe this day as ‘Christmas.’ But assuredly it is well known that this date and its observance have no scriptural backing except that the world recognizes them as a witness that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was indeed born. “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shall call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).

We know also that ‘Good Friday’ and ‘Easter Sunday’ that the world celebrate as the day Jesus died and resurrected respectively are church celebrations involving among others the Lenten fast, festive family meal, Easter egg decorations, gift giving, sunrise services and a feast regarded as the high point of all ecclesiastical celebrations in the year. No matter how much the celebration worldwide is made to fit the sacred mould, it will never feed the soul of a truly born again believer. Never before in the history of mankind has the whole world tuned-in to a single form of celebration as it has today with Christmas and Easter. And over and over again, the manner and conduct of the festivities have proven to be effective means by which the devil gains control over the lives of people and drags them into spiritual blindness and wickedness. Again, as said in 2 Peter 2:12 “… even as there shall be false teachers among you who privily shall bring in damnable heresies … and many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.” Of the three days and three nights According to the commonly accepted tradition of the church, Jesus was crucified on Friday … and raised from the dead very early in the morning of the following Sunday. Many readers of the Bible are no doubt puzzled about how the interval between late Friday afternoon and early Sunday morning can be figured out to be three days and three nights. Because Jesus clearly spoke of this time period as being three days and three nights. “As Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly, he said, so shall the son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. (Matt. 12:38-40). Jesus often said he would rise on “the third day” (Matt. 16:21, Mark 10:34). God is a God of exactness. He does everything right on schedule. Nothing is accidental with Him. However, the interval between late Friday and early Sunday seems rather

And it came to pass when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, ye know that after two days is the feast of the Passover and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified

to be two nights, one day and a very small portion of another day. The Bible nowhere says or implies that Jesus was crucified and died on Friday. It is said that Jesus was crucified on the day before the Sabbath. The Bible does not leave us to speculate in regard to which Sabbath is meant in this instance. It was not the day before the weekly Sabbath (Saturday), but it was the day before the annual Passover Sabbath. “And it came to pass when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, ye know that after two days is the feast of the Passover and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified. Then assembled together the chief priests … And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtlety and kill him. But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people” (Matt. 26:2-5). Now the weekly Sabbath (Saturdays) is not the same day as the annual Passover Sabbath. The later certainty came before the weekly Sabbath that year. There is nothing in favor of a Friday crucifixion, but everything in the Scriptures is perfectly harmonized; allowing Jesus in the grave for three days and three nights, before corruption set in. He arose, He arose, hallelujah Christ arose. Not early on Sunday morning being the first day of the week, as church tradition claims. But in all verity, the Bible did not make a statement about the actual time He resur-

rected. So Easter Sunday as the actual day of Christ’s resurrection is a fiction. However, God in the Scriptures did not give the date of His death and resurrection. Jesus did not die on a Good Friday and resurrect on an Easter Sunday. The assumption that He arose on the first day of the week (Sunday) was never mentioned or substantiated in the Holy Bible. The account in John 20:1 gave us an insight: “The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulcher.” It is assumed that Jesus rose on that first day but there is never any record in the Bible in all the scriptural references corroborating the time of His resurrection. Jesus had risen before Mary got there but at what time, it was not given. It implies that God is not particular about us knowing the day of the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Rather, the WHY of His death and resurrection (not the WHEN)is the issue of significance to our Salvation. SEEK THE WHY OF CHRIST’s DEATH. The ordinances associated with the death of Jesus Christ are the reasons for our redemption. That is Water Baptism in the NAME of Jesus Christ (Acts 2: 38, 8:16, 10:48, 19:1-7); feet washing (John 13:1-17); the Lord’s Supper “Verily, verily I say unto you, … whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:53-54). “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come”(1 Corinthians 11:26). The commemoration of the annual Easter observance as instituted by church tradition will amount to nothing in bringing about the desired spiritual change in the life of the ardent seeker of God. This is because it is a mere ritual celebration that lacks the power to change life. “Ye have made the Word of God of none effect because ye keep the traditions of men” Mark 7:13.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Faith

The eyes of grace (2) Taming your Emotions Bishop

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

ook at the story of Moses and you will find what grace can do in the life of a man. Moses was as a child not meant to live because he was born a Hebrew lad, according to the wicked law of the Pharaoh of Egypt. Many children of his generation were slaughtered at birth but his parents decided to hide him, considering that he was a good looking boy. The brightness of the vision of God upon his life radiated glory that no one dared kill him even when he was kept at the seashore. Grace kept Moses alive. No wonder the Bible says a thousand will fall by my side, ten thousand on my right, but none of that destruction will come near my dwelling. Moses survived; I don’t care what is running around in the city, you will survive every mess and satanic bombing in Jesus name. It does not matter what is coming upon

the world, if you are a child of God you will survive every onslaught of the enemy. Moses survived every aggression; grace took him to the bosom of Pharaoh, the man who made the decree that every Hebrew male born child should be killed, yet Moses was raised in his very palace. He ate his food, wore his clothes, slept on his bed, rode on his chariot and that is why I know that your enemy will labour for you when the grace of God comes upon you. That is why you don’t undermine the efficacy of grace. Moses was raised in Pharaoh’s palace. Once upon a time, he tried to defend some of his Israeli brethren from the oppression of the Egyptian task masters and in the process he killed an Egyptian. Moses became a killer, a murderer and as a result he was placed on the government’s wanted list; and he had to run for his life. Even while he was running away for his dear life, grace was still following him. The same one who was a murderer was the one God chose to lead Israel out of 430 years of slavery. You don’t sleep and wake up and then want to break a yoke that is upon a people from generations to generation except the hand of God is upon you; for this honour will no man take upon himself except the Lord calls him.

You may have confessed your faith for too long over that circumstance but as grace comes upon you, whatever you say shall come to pass in Jesus name The grace of God met this man at the backside of the desert; he was empowered, he was given grace without measure. And he was asked to return from whatever was pursuing him for the leadership of Israel. I am prophesying over you through this study that you are coming out of every bondage and depression. Where you were oppressed, God is delivering you this season in Jesus name. Moses returned to Egypt, Pharaoh who was after him bowed because the uncommon grace of God was upon him. All kinds of outstanding miracles happened: plagues, rain of afflictions upon Egypt, because a man carrying grace appeared. Every word that he spoke became the word of God because of grace. And literally he became a god unto Pharaoh and unto all Egyptians because of grace.

When I talk about grace understand it perfectly well that I mean the overriding influence of the power of God upon His people. He returned like a man that had God behind him. So when he said, “Let there be blood on all the water,” blood appeared. When he said let there be frogs, it came to pass. God makes manifest the word of your mouth. You may have confessed your faith for too long over that circumstance but as grace comes upon you, whatever you say shall come to pass in Jesus name. When you see men who speak and it comes to pass, it is grace that is doing it. For it is neither by power nor by might but by my Spirit, says the Lord of host. Man sees on the outward but God sees the heart. Everyone that came against the man of grace the earth opened and swallowed them up. God said to Aaron and Miriam: “Who told you? Where were you when I poured grace on Moses?” No wonder the Bible says touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm. I am talking about the eyes of grace so that you know how God sees you. If this message has blessed your life, you can get more at the Powerline Bible church. We invite you worship with us at powerline Bible church glass house, Odolowu Bus Stop, ijeshatedo, along Mile2- Oshodi Expressway, Lagos.

Experiencing the wonders of praise (3) The Voice of Dominion by

Bishop David Oyedepo

7747546-8 (SMS only)

elcome to your regular column. Last week, we examined among other things, how praise facilitates the fulfillment of prophecies. Recognise that only the hand of God can fulfil the plans and purpose of God in our lives (1 Kings 8:15, 23-24). For us to experience sudden changes in our lives, it will take God! Every prophetic declaration is beyond you to make happen (1 Samuel 2:9). This week, we shall continue from where we stopped in that teaching. Today, I will show you what is in the weapon of praise. • God beautifies anyone in praise (Psalm 149:1-4). • Praise is a spiritual platform for executing vengeance (Psalm 149:6-9). • God has ordained praise as a medium through which we humiliate our enemies. • We invoke victory in every battle of life. • Praise is a facilitator for sudden turnaround (2 Chronicles 20:2024). None of the enemies of Judah escaped! They were all smitten! • Paul and Silas prayed and sang

praises. Immediately the prison door opened and they regained their freedom (Acts 26:25-30). They were to be executed the following day; but something turned suddenly for them and they were liberated. • The Israelites were in slavery in Egypt for 420 years. However, suddenly, God turned the tide for them and they were liberated. Besides, divine favour became their portion (Exodus 12:36). • Suddenly, Joseph the slave and prisoner became a Prime Minister in Egypt without election! He was a prisoner last night and emerged next day as a Prime Minister (Psalm 105:17-22). • Praise is a platform for provoking supernatural turnaround. • Praise ushers us into the realm of wonders without stress. • Revelation is in praise. • Praise ushers us into the Voice of God (Isaiah 30:10, 31). • There is anointing in praise (Psalm 82:9, 20-22). We are freshly anointed when we praise God. Your appearance before God entitles you to fresh oil. • God, revelation and anointing are in praise. A combination of these three will culminate in signs and wonders! Recognise that the more praiseful we are, the more honourable our lives become. The more praiseful we are, the more breakthroughs we command. Besides, we carry God’s

Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. From today, I accept You as my Saviour and Lord. Thank You for saving me. Now I know I am born again!” I will see you next week, if Jesus tarries! presence and live a more-than-conqueror’s life. Virtues Of Praise Warfare: • Praise warfare is a platform for provoking all the written judgment in scriptures. • You can invoke answers to your prayer by praise (1 John 3:8; Matt. 15:13). • Every good thing is our heritage in Christ (Ps. 34:20). Examples of some good things are marriage (Proverbs 18:22), children (Psalm127:3-5) and gainful employment (Isaiah 3:10). These are our rights, but they require praise to take delivery of them. • Praise warfare silences our mockers. For example, when David was dancing unto the Lord with all his might, his wife mocked and despised him. The consequence was that God shut her womb. She became barren all her life (2 Samuel 6:14-16)!

• Praise warfare silences our enemies (Matthew 21:16). • Praise provokes fulfillment of prophecies. Abraham gave God all the glory and Isaac was born. Romans 4:19-21 says: And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara’s womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. Friend, the grace to tap into what praise warfare carries, is the birthright of children of God. You become a child of God by accepting and confessing Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. If you are not yet a child of God, you can do so right now, by saying this prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. From today, I accept You as my Saviour and Lord. Thank You for saving me. Now I know I am born again!” I will see you next week, if Jesus tarries! Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, you can get my books: Understanding The Power Of Praise and The Wonders Of Praise. I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have four services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 7:50 a.m., 9:40 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. respectively. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 7747546-8; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

C&S Divine Blessing marks Easter

embers of the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S), Movement Church, Chapel of Divine Blessing, Lagos have been advised to regard the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the essence of their salvation. These formed part of the exhortation at the 2015 Easter Retreat organised by the church at its main auditorium. The event was part of activities to mark the Easter. In his sermon titled ‘Why The Cross,’ Most Senior Apostle Idowu Elijah, said, “Jesus Christ was sent to the world and he died because of you and I so that we can be saved and have salvation in the Christ. “The love that God had for us was to send His only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to the world to die for our sins so that we can be saved,” he said, quoting from St. Luke chapter 23 verses 13 to 36. It was the only Bible lesson for the retreat and was read by Bimbo Omiyefa. The pastor, who said Jesus had the power to overcome His being crucified and killed, noted that He, however, laid down His life to fulfill the scriptures. This is so that those who believe and have faith in Him will not die but be saved and inherit eternal life. While saying that for

Christians to have salvation, they must be ready to take up their cross, like Jesus Christ did, the preacher noted that Christians must be prepared to do what God wants. Elijah added: “As Christians, we should be ready to fast and pray as Jesus Christ prepared well for His journey to the Cross through the 40 days and nights of fasting and prayer. And, that was why Christ was able to conquer Satan and overcome temptation.” Therefore, he urged Christians to fast and pray always, saying fasting prepares Christians for greater

blessings from God. The preacher, who described fasting as putting the flesh under discipline and a means of opening one’s spiritual life to God, however, explained that for Christians to carry their cross successfully, they must be able to identify themselves and the purpose of God for their lives. Quoting from the Book of Matthew 4 verses one to five; Luke 9, verse 52; Isaiah 40 verse 31 and Job 39 verse six, he said for Christians to walk in the way of Jesus Christ the Saviour, they must have integrity and humility to attain God’s glory and purpose, as well

as have faith and focus on their purpose in life. During the hour of blessing (prayer session), led by the church’s prophet, Most Senior Apostle Prophet Solomon Bamidele, prayers were offered for members of the congregation, the progress of the church and the country, especially for peace, unity and progress of the nation during and after the elections. In his goodwill message, the Leader-In-Charge, Special Apostle John Adegboyega Oyeku JP, praised the members of the Easter Retreat Committee for the successful hosting of this year’s event, even as he

enjoined members of the church to commit their lives and ways to the Lord for them to inherit the Kingdom of God. Other major high points of this year’s edition were a raffle draw and presentation of prizes anchored by the Assistant Group Manager, Strategy and Business Development, Chemstar Paints Industry Nigeria Limited, Dr. Tunde Olaniya. Members won various items ranging from refrigerators, generators, irons, rechargeable fans, electric cookers, sandwich toasters, DVD players to electric kettles. Food items were also dis-

L-R: Sp. Apos. Remi Awode; Sp. Apos. Idowu and Sp. Apos. Oyeku JP.

Anglican Bishop asks Buhari to keep pre-election vows Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

he Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kwara, Rt. Rev Olusegun Adeyemi asked yesterday President-elect, General Muhammad Buhari to keep to his election promise of no-discrimination durimng his tenure.

Adeyemi, who spoke with journalists after delivering his Charge to the First Session of the 14th Synod of the diocese held at Christ the King Anglican Church, Geri Alimi in Ilorin, also canvassed that Nigerians must be ready to go back to the foundation of righteousness built by the nation’s founding fathers.

Woman leader congratulates St. Kizito mothers

he coordinator of Catholic Sisters United of St. Kizito’s Parish, Iju, Lagos, Mrs. Josphine Damisa, has sent felicitation to all mother as they celebrate mothers day today. In her Mother ’s Day greeeting to all mothers in St. Kizito Catholic Church Iju, Lagos, (CWO), she said: “As we celebrate this remarkable day in our lives as great mother, we give honour to our mother Mary through whom we derive immence help. “We salute of His grace

Adewale Martins, and our parish Priest Paul Igabor of St. Kizito ,for the privilage to serve as wemon leaders in the church “we thank him for helping us to play the invaluable role of a mother and celebrate the myriad joys of motherhood. “What’s your favorite part of being a mom? What do you love and admire most about an awesome mom in your life? “I pray that God give us the grace to take care of our home and be peaceful,” she added

He said, “I hope the President-elect will keep to his promise thaht he will not regard any cultural or religious difference among us. His election promise was focused om no victor no vanquished so now let him look into the issue of power supply which can help to ginger employment and also consider the huhe number of unemployed youths. He should also look into the area of pension because there are several people who have served this nation and are dying silently. “This nation needs to go back to the old days of

godly values summarised by some of the words of our former and present national anthems ; though tribes and tongues defere, in brotherhood we stand anf arise o compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey. “As a nation we need to go back to our root when we were godly. We need to come back to a united Nigeria that is God-fearing and that is godly where everyone is his brother’s keeper. Unless you are your brother’s keeper, when you are in trouble tomorrow, nobody will recognise your voice. “We must develop this country by ourselves be-

cause nobody will do it for us. We need to get closer to God because last year when we were threatened by Ebola we prayed and fasted and Ebola disappeared. This year too we were threatened by disunity but God heard us again and we had a very peaceful election. “That tells us that christians and Muslims, instead of attacking ourselves we need to be more together. Let our testimony in the next four years be that we prayed together and stayed together irrespective of our ethnic and religious backgrounds.”

Faith

Chibok girls offer hope to Boko Haram victims

ne year after Islamic terrorist organisation Boko Haram, raided an all-girls school in Chibok, Nigeria, and took 200 young girls captive, three of them who managed to escape are now offering hope to the remaining captives, with a message that God is there for them. Marking one year anniversary of the event, one of the girls, Deborah, said: “The message is be brave and courageous,” “Be a hard worker and always believe in God, that whatever you are going through, God is there for you, He will help you. Have ambition that you are great and you were made to be a great person,” Al-Jeezerah reported. Boko Haram, reportedly targeted the school because it was educating young women, including 163 Christians and 15 Muslims. The organization wants to establish an Islamic caliphate and return to Sharia law, often described as oppressive to women and girls. Evangelist Matthew Owojaiye of the Old Time Revival Hour Church in Kaduna explained that Chibok local government is 90 per cent Christian community. His words: “majority of the girls abducted are Christian! Why did Boko Haram visit Chibok local government? Why didn’t they visit so many other local government girls’ secondary schools in Borno State?” The other escapees, Mary and Blessing now attend the University of Nigeria in Yola with Deborah and want to effect changes in their community. “I want some changes in Chibok, like the environment,” Blessing told Al Jazeera. “I want to be a lawyer. I want to fight for justice.” Mary wants to “become a medical doctor” and “to go to Chibok and build clinics and hospitals because we don’t have educated doctors there. I will try hard.”

Archbishop Ademowo loses mother

hief Mrs. Caroline Ademowo, mother of the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos and Dean Emeritus, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Rev. Ephraim Ademowo, has died.

A statement released by the Diocese of Lagos said, “With gratitude to God, we announce the home call of our mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Chief Mrs. Caroline Abosede Ademowo, Nee Awo-

nubi at the ripe age of 85 years.” She passed unto glory on the 14th of April, 2015, the statement added. Burial arrangement, Sunday telegraph learnt, would be announced later. Late Mrs.Abosede Ademowo

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH APRIL 19, 2015

Faith

Should Christian couples watch pornographic films? Habib Omachile Rabbiu Yes, it electrifies sexual stimuli Pornograhic films enhances sexual intimacy between married couples. It also add excitement their sexual drive.

Obaje Etu Yes, because it is good for sexual enhancement. It can help increase their sexual drive especially at advanced age when they are less urge.

Etuk Adeni Sometime couples watch pornographic movies to improve on their sexual performance. They watch such films to help them to be romantic, pep up their sexual life. In my opinion, it is wrong for Christian couple to indulge in such act. It is advisable for Christian couples not to watch the adult films. There are many other ways they can arouse sexual urge; and satisfy themselves sexually. They can read Christian Romance literatures. Watching pornographic films will pol-

lute their heart or mind and most likely lead them into further sin. For instance, there is a high possibility of getting addicted to the habit, and when the desire to watch pornographic film is heightened, a spouse whose partner is not around could relapse into the habit and eventually get overcome with the urge to hoot up with someone else. Iya Daniel There is nothing wrong if a man and his wife decide to watch blue films together in the privacy of their bed-

room. It helps to stimulate sexual desire, especially if a couple have stayed together for many years and the urge for sex is dwindling. I watch such films a lot with my husband, and we enjoy it together. It helps improve our sex life and bring us closer to each other. But couples must not watch such films in the presence of their children. A spouse must also avoid enjoying such movies with someone he/she is not married to. Otherwise, they will get involved in extramarital affairs. If you are a Christian, I recommend

that you watch such films with your spouse to help your sex life. When couples are not fulfilled sexually, it could lead to marital breakdown. Many marriages have broken because a spouse is not there for his or her partner sexually. David Oladimeji

It is not ideal. If the couples sincerely love each other, the orgy will come naturally. If they rely on pornography, a time will come when they will be addicted to it and wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to engage in natural intercourse. One thing to realise is that even if a man is 70 years he can still have children but some women use get to reach their menopause at the age of 40 and 50. Men used to have erection except they have health changes. Ugo Mmerife

There will always a tendency towards addiction when adults (male and female) decide to watch porn ographic films. Watching pornographic pictures can become addictive and once an addicted person is aroused sexually he or she can get into sexual act with anyone within reach. Just any other intoxicant take control of its victim, addicts of pornography can get uncontrollable when they are aroused. Ndubuisi Ojimadu

If there is no offence watching it with your wife, there should also be no offence acting it with your wife for others to watch. As a child of God, it is not recommended watching it with your wife just as you cannot act it with your wife, sell to others to watch.

SUNDAY

Sport 59

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

Eagles

Senegal stops Sand Eagles from World Cup p.61

Football

Messi nets 400th goal as Barca win p.61

Boxing

Mayweather vs Pacquaio: Tickets not yet on sale p.61

Tennis

Djokovic to face Berdych in Monte Carlo final p.61

Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu

Nigerian boy Osede takes Spanish football by storm D erek Osede Prieto, who remains eligible to play for Nigeria and Spain at the senior level is a Spanish youth international who was born in Madrid to a Nigerian father and a Spanish mother. He joined Real Madrid at the age of 9 and today he is gradually walking his way into the first team set-up of Spanish giant Real Madrid with his superlative performances for the team’s reserve side popularly called Castilla. Osede who turned 21 years old a few weeks ago is a central defender by trade and he is into his second season with the Real Madrid Castilla coached by soccer legend Zinedine Zidane after a great year with Real Madrid C in 2011/2012 season. His excellent form influenced his inclusion in the Real Madrid’s first team training activities and he made his first team debut in the Trofeo Santiago Bernabeu which Real Madrid won 8-0 against Millonarios in 2012. Derik started playing organised football at the age of eight, joining local DAV Santa Ana’s youth ranks. The Nigerian-born star defender appeared with the prestigious Spanish Under-19 team at the 2012 UEFA European Championship, helping to a final win in Estonia. Derik is a promising rightback, a position on the field of play manned by Scotland-based Efe Ambrose, for the Super Eagles of Nigeria which the team lacks a perfect player that fits in the last three decades. Osede’s greatest assets on the field of play include his powerfully built as a defender, speed and solid at making interceptions, strong and very technical as he is always very confident with the ball at his feet. He is likely to be promoted to the Real Madrid’s team B if he has the type of tournament that is expected of him at the U-19 European Championship Elite Round in Estonia in July. He is considered by many as one of the greatest stars that would take over from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Gareth Bale among others in the senior team. He was invited to train with the first team at the end of last season and has impressed all the coaches in the

Madrid system with his play last year. When asked about his inclusion in Julen Lopetegui’s squad he had this to say: “I’m in good form right now, but I have to keep working. We are a good group of players and we’re all united. My teammates are my friends and I’m always with them in the national team. The most we can aspire to at our age is to continue playing good football at all opportunities given.

He is considered by many as one of the greatest stars that would take over from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Gareth Bale among others in the senior team

PLAYER PROFILE Name: Derik Osede Prieto Date of birth: Feb 21, 1993 Place of birth: Madrid, Spain Age: 22 Height: 6 feet Nationality: Spain, Nigeria Position: Defence - Centre Back Foot: right In the team since: Jul 1, 2013 Contract until: 30.06.2015 Previous National team: Spain U-21 National team’s Appearances: 27 Goals scored: 4

SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport

Ayo Obileye: Hope of playing for Nigeria fading

Dapo Sotuminu

Ayo Obileye Profile Full name: Stephen Ayomide Oluwagbenga Obileye Date of birth: 2 Sept. 1994 (age 20) Place of birth: Homerton, England Height: 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) Playing position: Defender Current team: Dagenham & Redbridge Number: 25 Youth career: Leyton Orient ?–2011: Chelsea 2011–2013: Sheffield Wednesday Senior Career: 2011–2014 Sheffield Wednesday 2014– Charlton Athletic 2014– Dagenham & Redbridge

harlton Athletic central defender, Ayomide Obileye, who now plays for League Two side Dagenham and Redbridge FC on a loan deal is fast losing interest on his earlier believe and aspiration of playing for the Nigerian national soccer team. The 20-year-old whose dream is to play for the Samson Siasia-tutored Dream Team VI possibly at the Rio 2016 Olympic soccer event after he must have helped in the qualifying series, is apprehensive that, since he declared his intention to play for Nigeria ahead of England, nobody in the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has spoken to him on the matter nor sent a message to indicate interest in him since November 2014. Obileye, revealed that peradventure he gets invitations from the English Football Association and the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, at the same time to play for the countries national teams, he would gladly embrace the invitation from Nigeria because he has already made up his mind on what to do when such situation arises. “I would like to play for both Nigeria and England, but love most to play for Nigeria because it is where I originated from and the real home of my family. I would consider playing for Nigeria’s Olympic Team ahead of England Under-21s if I get both invitations on the same day. Yes, my parents would love me to play for Nigeria. We have discussed that before and it is a foregone conclusion.” For Ayo Obileye who models his defensive game after Ledley King and Rio Ferdinand, is not happy the national team selectors in Nigeria have not looked his way since his declaration to play for Nigeria. The youthful player who once played for the first team of Sheffield Wednesday when he was aged 16, against Bradford City in the Football League Trophy in 2011

was born in Homerton University Hospital in the London Borough of Hackney to Nigerian parents. Obileye started his career in the youth system at Leyton Orient, before joining Chelsea as a schoolboy. He stayed with the club until 2011, but failed to earn a scholarship with the club. He was made captain of the Development Squad for the 2012-13 season, and was awarded with his first professional contract for the club in May 2013, signing a one-year deal on completion of his scholarship. In March 2014, he was linked with moves away from the club as he wanted to return to his London roots, and spent short-time training with Premier League side Crystal Palace. In May 2014, he left Sheffield Wednesday at the end of his contract having only made one first team appearance, turning down a new deal. In October of same year, Obileye signed for Football League Championship side Charlton Athletic after impressing on trial. He initially signed on a short-term deal, but in November his contract was extended until June 2015. Later in the month he signed for Football League Two side Dagenham and Redbridge on a one-month youth loan deal. As part of the loan agreement he was still eligible to play for Charton’s U-21 Development Squad. He made his debut on the same day, coming on as a substitute in the 1-0 away defeat to AFC Wimbledon. In December 2014, his loan was extended for a further month, having made four appearances for the Daggers. He continued to have a positive impact in the Daggers back-line and in January 2015 his loan was again extended for a further month. He continued to remain a permanent fixture in the Daggers defence, extending his stay in February 2015 until the end of the season. The 20-year-old joined the League Two side in November and has played 13 times, contributing two assists.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2015

Sport / News

Warri Wolves beat FCMK of Congo 2-1

igeria’s only surviving club in the African continental championships, Warri Wolves yesterday defeated FCMK of Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in a CAF Confederation Cup second round, first leg match played at the Warri Township Stadium. Super Eagles’ forward Gbolahan Salami, who celebrated his birthday in mid-week, scored both goals, the first coming only five minutes after kick-off at the Warri City Stadium. Nigeria’s only remaining team in the continent then fluffed several chances to add to their advantage, before Salami netted his second with 18 minutes left on the clock. Wolves have themselves to blame for becoming careless and allowing the visitors to earn an important away goal off a corner kick, and must be prepared for a flaming battle in Central Africa in two weeks. It will be quite a task against the Congolese side, who pumped Ahly Shandy of Sudan 5-1 in Kinshasa in their first round, second leg match to reach this stage.

Djokovic to face Berdych in Monte Carlo final

ovak Djokovic reached his fourth final at the Monte Carlo Masters on Saturday as he held off Rafael Nadal 6-3, 6-3. Top seed Djokovic, titlewinner in 2013, will aim for his fourth trophy of 2015 and 52nd overall on Sunday, taking on Tomas Berdych. The sixth seed booked his place as Frenchman Gael Monfils came back to earth in a 6-1, 6-4 loss after a pair of big-match wins in previous rounds. Djokovic trails Nadal 20-23 in their career series but has now won five of their last six meetings. They last played in the 2014 Roland Garros final, won by Nadal.

RESULTS

Barclays Premier League C/Palace 0 - 2 West Bromwich Everton 1 - 0 Burnley Leicester 2 - 0 Swansea Stoke City 2 - 1 Southampton Chelsea 1 - 0 Man. United FA Cup Reading 1 - 2 Arsenal Germany - Bundesliga Leverkusen 4 - 0 Hannover Dortmund 3 - 0 Paderborn Freiburg 2 - 3 Mainz Hertha Berlin 0 - 0 FC Cologne Hoffenheim 0 - 2 Bayern Augsburg 2 - 1 Stuttgart Frankfurt 0 - 0 M’gladbach Italy - Serie A Sampdoria 0 - 0 Cesena Spain - Liga BBVA Barcelona 2 - 0 Valencia Deportivo 1 - 2 A. Madrid Levante 2 - 2 Espanyol France - Ligue 1 Nice 1 - 3 PSG Nantes 1 - 0 Marseille

Messi nets 400th goal as Barca win L ionel Messi scored the 400th goal of his Barcelona career as the Catalans beat Champions Leaguechasing Valencia 2-0 to move five points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga on Saturday. Luis Suarez got Barca off to a

flying start as he slotted home the opener after just 54 seconds from Messi’s through ball. However, it was Valencia who enjoyed the majority of the chances thereafter and they were left to rue Dani Parejo’s missed penalty in the first half. Messi made sure of all three

points with the final kick of the game after Diego Alves had saved his initial effort. Madrid can move back to within two points of the leaders when they host Malaga later on Saturday. Defeat, meanwhile, leaves Valencia still a point adrift of

third-placed Atletico Madrid, who are in action away to Deportivo la Coruna. Suarez scored two wonderful individual goals as Barca all but secured their place in the Champions League semi-finals with a 3-1 win away to Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.

Senegal stops Sand Eagles from World Cup

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney (left) rides a sliding tackle from Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic during the first half. The game ended 1-0 in favour of Chelsea

igeria failed to reach the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup after the Supersand Eagles were defeated 4-3 after overtime at the 2015 African Beach Soccer Championship. Saturday’s semi-final brought together the top two teams in the continent, but despite leading 3-2 in the second period, the Nigerians allowed their big West African rivals to draw level and then win in overtime. The result means the Supersand Eagles miss a second consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, after also failing to reach the finals in Tahiti two years ago. Senegal and Madagascar, who defeated Cote d’Ivoire in Saturday’s first semi-final, will contest Sunday’s final and also represent Africa at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Portugal in July.

Nwakali joins brother at Manchester City Mayweather vs P lans have been concluded for the Golden Eaglets captain, Kelechi Nwakali, to join older brother Chidiebere at English Premier League side Manchester City. The senior Nwankali disclosed that his brother Kelechi is in England to do his medical before he signs for Manchester City.

The Eagles captain is expected to sign a pre-contract for the blue half of Manchester before he is eventually given a professional deal. Chidiebere, who has joined the Nigeria U-20 team, the Flying Eagles ahead of next month’s FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand, already has a contract with City but has been

shipped out on loan to Malaga for the next two and half years. Last month, younger brother Kelechi Nwakali led the Nigerian Under-17 to qualify for this year’s FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile. “Kelechi has developed very well within a short space of time,” remarked his older brother.

Heineken rewards consumers with 20 UEFA Champions League final’s trip

ore lucky winners have emerged in Heineken’s raffle draws, giving away trips to watch the UEFA Champions League finals in Ibiza, Spain. On Wednesday night, Heineken fans gathered in the luxurious Heineken House Lagos to enjoy the on-pitch clashes between Europe’s best clubs. But for many of them, the half-time raffle draw action will linger much longer in the memory. “I was motivated by reports in the media that some consumers have won from in-bar activations,” said Daniel Philips. “I was lucky to have received an invite to come and be part of this premium viewing experience at the Heineken House. It was a nice time out here and winning an allexpense paid trip to Ibiza, Spain is awesome.” Every year, since 2007, Heineken has rewarded five of its regular consumers with all-expenses paid trips from Nigeria to Europe, to watch the finals of the UEFA Champions League. But this season, marking its ninth

consecutive year of sponsoring the world’s best club football tournament, Heineken has raised the bar the ‘Champion the Match’ promotion. They are giving away twenty European trips. This innovative promotion is part of the exciting package from Heineken and was born out of the insight that fans know that UEFA Cham-

pions League match nights are worth a little more effort to make it memorable. Thirteen fans had already won in nationwide in-bar raffle draws, and two others had won by participating in radio show phone-ins. They are now joined by the five winners from Wednesday’s Heineken House raffle draws.

The last set of winners of UEFA Champions League trip to Ibiza that emerged last week at the Heineken House Lagos

Pacquaio: Tickets not yet on sale

ickets for Floyd Mayweather’s highly anticipated bout with Manny Pacquiao are yet to go on sale - despite the event being just two weeks away. The fight will take place on May 2 in Las Vegas but both fighters’ camps are still engaged in a standoff with the MGM Grand over ticketing rights and allotments. Even if tickets went on sale now punters would experience difficulties in arranging transport and would be forced to pay elevated prices for accommodation in Vegas. “It’s bizarre, normally there’s a public sale 10 weeks before the fight,” said Connor Gregoire, an analyst for ticketing search. “To our knowledge no one has a printed ticket in their hands right now.” Filipino fighter Pacquiao’s manager Michael Koncz blamed Mayweather’s camp for the impasse and questioned the Money team’s motivation behind delaying the release of the tickets. “It’s a real mess right now,” Koncz said. “I can only surmise the motivation is greed and an attempt to manipulate the tickets, otherwise why the holdup? I’m more than a little upset they’re not for sale to the public.” Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum added: “This is not acceptable. This is a worldwide event that the city of Las Vegas is involved in. It’s one of the craziest things I’ve ever seen.”

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

Enugu: A victory…and template for PDP

he victory of Enugu PDP governorship candidate, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Gburugburu Nwachinemere) in the Saturday, April 11, 2015 governorship election in the state was, to be sure, predicted. Long before the election proper, Ugwuanyi had emerged, through a highly acclaimed consensus arrangement as the choice of party stakeholders from his Enugu North zone to fly the PDP flag in the governorship election. In September last year, some 86 elders of the party, including 14 governorship aspirants, met in Enugu Governor’s Lodge to try and prune down the number of governorship aspirants and possibly agree on a candidate to be presented to the rest of the state for ratification as the party’s governorship candidate for the governorship election that eventually held on Saturday, the 11th of this month. All but four (mostly his fellow aspirants) of those present voted for Ugwuanyi as that choice to be presented from Enugu North to the rest of the state for ratification as the PDP governorship candidate. And was he ratified! Every group and section— from the rolling hills of Udi, the yam farms of Awgu to the slaughter houses of Nkanuland---agreed with the people of Nsukka Cultural zone that their choice of a future governor of the state from the zone was a good and generally acceptable one, a man every one of those party elders from every part of the state could actually call ‘my son’. Once that unique and transparent process was successfully completed, Ugwuanyi was as good as governor-elect. But, even more instructive was that the party didn’t take anything for granted. For, few other governorship candidates in this election campaigned as hard as Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi or, to put it more concisely, the PDP leadership in Enugu State. From local government to ward rallies, home-to-home to marketto-market campaigns, the PDP in Enugu clearly demonstrated that it understood the nuances of democracy better than any other party in the state; that it was not a party to take its popularity with, and general acceptance by, the people for granted but one that understood the imperative of intense and relentless marketing of its candidates and programme to the people in a crucial election year in spite of its good standing with the very same people and would go to any length to demonstrate its seriousness to that effect. That is why when the election came, despite the setback for the party at the centre, the PDP won fair and square in Enugu. Indeed, victory for Hon. Ugwuanyi, a three-term Member of the House of Representatives, was total, almost a walk-over of his APC challenger. That consensus arrangement ought to have become the template for the rest of PDP states on how to organize rancor-free primaries. That was why when some misinformed money-for-ticket PDP officers from states where the party was in disarray started talking about the party being averse to ‘consensus’ because it was ‘antidemocratic’, some of us argued that such criticism of what had happened in Enugu was misguided. I for one argued that rather than oppose it, the PDP ought to embrace it totally and hold it up as a good example of how to recruit leadership in a less rancorous way. I further argued that the party must promote the consensus concept as a way out of the crisis in places where the party was in shreds owing to infighting among its stakeholders. In a sane system where credit is duly given to whom it is due, the PDP leadership ought to have garlanded not villified Sullivan Chime, Ike Ekweremadu, Okwesilieze Nwodo, Vita Abba, Elder Aja, Ikeje Asogwa, Mike Ejinima, Fidel Ayogu, COC Egumgbe, and all the other party elders in Enugu State for devising and sustaining a unique arrangement that has made party politics in the state so

Sunday w

Felix Oguejiofor Abugu

abugufex@gmail.com 08076290498 (sms only)

Ugwuanyi

peaceful and progressive. I believe that the electoral calamity that has befallen the party due largely to unresolved infighting and wrong choices has made this a tenable argument. Or isn’t it worthy of commendation and celebration, for instance, that in all the processes leading to the elections that were concluded on April 11, there was not a single incident of even face-slap by any set of disagreeable opponents? In Nigerian party politics in a crucial election year? Cer-

“In remaking itself, the PDP must consider the Enugu model as a template. Enugu model signifies party cohesion, party loyalty, respect for constituted authority, especially party leadership”

tainly, Enugu deserves an award. PDP cannot cry over spilt milk—it serves no useful purpose. But, the party ought to sit down and take stock. It still remains a formidable political organization with a liberal political philosophy that makes it the party for those who desire a future for Nigeria, if only it could reinvent itself and reinvent itself it must. I repeat that as much as the defeat of the party at the centre hurts, it is good in the sense that it has rid of the party of the carrion eaters, the locusts that came with Obasanjo who was at the head of a lawless, conceited lot who would not subordinate themselves to any other authority except you are prepared to do their bidding. The defeat has rid the party of that horrible tendency and it now has another golden opportunity to remake itself in the golden image of its founding fathers whose vision for the PDP was to be a pan-Nigerian organization that had room for the interests of all groups, including those of minorities. We remember with nostalgia what the Alex Ekwuemes of this world desired for the PDP before the Nigerian joy killers brought in one of their destructive own and killed that liberal essence of the party. But, I presume that the leaders who remain in the party are ‘true’ members, the ones who must get up and work towards rebuilding the party. I believe that the future is brighter for post-Obasanjo PDP. The PDP must reinvent and ready itself for takeover of its divine-mandated leadership of Nigeria when the implosion that is certain to occur, sooner than later, in the

APC occurs. For, the APC is no more than a party of strange bed-fellows for whom nothing or nobody else matters except their sectional interests and today’s Nigeria cannot sustain such political party. In remaking itself, the PDP must consider the Enugu model as a template. Enugu model signifies party cohesion, party loyalty, respect for constituted authority, especially party leadership, and belief in equity, justice and fair-play and, in particular, in the right of every section of the Nigerian society to provide leadership for the country or a given state. In fact, Enugu PDP exemplifies a political party with a popular mandate, which it judiciously uses to provide a veritable platform for inclusive and equitable societal development and progress. The monumental infrastructural development that has taken place in Enugu in the past eight years in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility is evidence that the PDP has provided leadership anchored on transparency, equity and justice. That means that henceforth, the party must begin to recruit like-minds as members, members who believe in the supremacy of the party, members who would not bring down the roof when they lose out in the internal contest for power and positions in the party, members who would not give undue attention to the interests of the major groups over and above those of the minorities, members who would not conspire against a party leader or functionary not because of non-performance but simply because such functionary is seen as coming from a less fanciful place. And that self-reinvention must begin in the South East and South South where fate has used PDP to forge a strategic political alliance between two culturally similar, geographically contiguous but hitherto not too friendly neighbours. The two groups must work on their relationship to try and achieve political and economic common grounds to protect their area, otherwise known as Eastern Nigeria, from the exploitative designs of other groups for whom Nigeria exists only because of the pies they so selfishly and wickedly take away from Eastern Nigeria, leaving only blood and desolation in rturn. After the betrayal of March 28, when traditional allies like Benue, the poster-child of Middle Belt struggle for self-determination and against feudalism, suddenly remembered their northerness and jumped ship, it became obvious to the South East and South South that they only have each other as true friends and brothers in this country, that they are for each other and there is nothing else in-between. That, to all intents and purposes, is a very sobering experience, which must spur the two groups to work on their relationship with a view to making it stronger, more positive and productive. Were the 11 or, well, the 10 states (Edo will always go with West and North) of the South East and South South to work together as PDP states, there is nothing they cannot achieve; there is nothing due to them that they cannot get from Nigeria. More importantly, they will be able to use their unity to democratically protect their area from undue economic exploitation by the dishonest biggies who have nothing to offer Nigeria except deceit and bland, immoral promotion of sectional interests. As Enugu prepares to inaugurate Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as its fourth executive governor, it really is the dawn of a new era for the coal city state. But, it is also an opportunity for Nigeria, well, for PDP, to turn its attention to events in one of the world’s resilient cities for inspiration on how to do things differently and, by so doing, come back to life to take its rightful place as Nigeria’s numero uno political party and Africa’s largest. It is morning yet on creation day for PDP, trust me.

SPORT Derik Osede takes Spanish Liga by storm

}59

FELIX O. ABUGU

Sanctity of Truth

SUNDAY

Enugu: A victory…and template for PDP

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015

N150

}63

Presidential election, the losers (2)

ur discourse on the doomsday and break-up prophets who are among the losers of the last presidential election, to be inducted into the Hall of Shame, continues today, and thereafter, the task before GMB. WESTERN NATIONS Equally to be inducted into the Hall of Shame are those Western nations and detractors, who had predicted that, “Nigeria will break up by the year 2015”. They conspired against a democratically elected government, refused to sell arms to it when most needed to fight insurgency, yet accused the government of weakness. A man with a dictatorial military background whom they had roundly condemned whilst in power, was suddenly, more acceptable to them, because it serves their interests right. For a country to disintegrate, there must be clear indices, such as: 1. Total disregard for the Constitution, public opinion and constituted authority. 2. Total abdication of duties by those constitutionally charged with such duties. 3. Superimposition of one part of the country over another in a blatant and unpretentious manner. 4. Muzzling of Rule of Law, Human Rights and a free and Independent judiciary. 5. Conscription of the democratic space and popular participation. Even when these factors were conspicuously absent in the Nigerian scenario, these doomsday “seers” who did not wish us well, predicted that Nigeria would break up in 2015. God has used GEJ to shame them all. All of you will wallow in the Hall of Shame. Nigeria will never go gay, or sodomic, or engage in such unnatural acts, as you demanded after our passage of the Anti-gay Act just to please you. NEVER. SOME PDP GOVERNORS The rumours were rife that some PDP governors were not only mere moles in their party, but were feverishly working for the opposition. True enough, the termite that kills the maize resides inside the maize. Shamelessly, treacherously, like Nichodemus, these governors worked in the night for the opposition APC, against their own party. Some even allowed themselves to lose their senatorial bids, just to prove the popularity of GMB. With friends like these traitor governors, no one needs an enemy. The PDP, in repositioning itself, to pose a viral opposition, like APC did it, must critically examine the continued relevance of these governors to their political cause. They either shape up, or shove out. Meanwhile, welcome to the Hall of Shame, Judas Iscariot governors. THE TASK BEFORE GMB After the euphoria of unexpected victory, General Buhari has a herculean and daunting task ahead of him. First, he must handle the human vampires, hawks and snakes around and about him. They include the bootlickers, fawners and corrupt people around him; the merchants of cronyism, the obsequious flatterers, grovelers, tricksters, wheedlers, beguilers, whippersnappers, sycophants, traitors, treacherous hangerson, hypocrites, and others, too many to list here, that surround him. They must be put out of business immediately, if he hopes to succeed. But can he? Will he? Dare he? Only time and his actions will tell.

The

Nigerian Project

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only) plex by his apparent lack of a pan-Nigerian mandate in the just concluded elections. Never before in the history of Nigerian elections have Nigerians been so divided, so vertically and horizontally polarised, along ethnic, linguistic, gender, regional, cultural, religious and class divides, as it is now. Let us do a case study of the votes cast and the pattern, to better appreciate my thesis on this issue. TOTAL VOTES AT THE ELECTION WAS GMB’s VICTORY CELESTIALLY OR TERRESTRIALLY DRIVEN? The following will shock you. Perhaps, the hand of God was upon it all. In the election, the following startling facts and figures emerged: APC: 15,424,921 – total votes received. 1 + 5 + 4 + 2 + 4 + 9 + 2 + 1 = 28 PDP: 12,853,162 – total votes received. 1 + 2 + 8 + 5 + 3 + 1 + 6 + 2 = 28 DATE OF ELECTION: March 28 The figure 28 is a recurring decimal. Subtract the results of PDP from APC: 15,424,921 – 12,853,162 = 2,571,759 :>2 + 5 + 7 +1 + 7 + 5 + 9 = 36 There are 36 states in Nigeria. Add 36 to 36 to get 72, which is GMB’s current age. GMB is the 4th president in the 4th Republic, who contested for presidency the 4th time and was declared winner in the 4th month by an umpire with 4 letters, called INEC, presided over by a professor with a name bearing 4 letters, JEGA. All these numbers, 4, 28, 36 and 72 are all even, not odd numbers. Are these strange coincidences, or are these the “finger of God” in Exodus 8:19, at work? Is this the rebirth Nigeria has been yearning for? Only time and GMB’s action will tell. ANALYSIS OF THE PATTERN OF VOTING From the above figures, however GMB only marginally beat GEJ with a total of 2,571,759 votes. Not that this figure is not much, considering that in election, even 10 votes can make the difference. But compared with GEJ’s unassailable lead over GMB in the 2011 presidential elections, this is child’s play. In that election, GEJ had scored 22,495,187 of the popular votes,

representing 58.89% to beat GMB, who scored 12,214,853 representing 31.98% of the votes cast. The difference was a humongous 10,280,334 votes. Compare this huge figure with the miserly 2,571,759 votes with which GMB just beat GEJ, and you will understand my point here. Yet, GEJ, in spite of this popular mandate, faced huge challenged throughout his four years in office, culminating in his recent ouster from Aso Rock Villa.

GMB as their president. Serious wound bandaging and healing need to be immediately embarked upon by GMB. Don’t be deceived, Sir. Can you hear, hear, hear me General? SOUTH WEST SHARED BETWEEN GEJ AND GMB The third geopolitical zone is South West, which pundits had predicted would be swept by APC. I had demurred, and argued that the sophistication of the Yorubas would not allow them vote massively for APC, simply because its leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, is from the South West. I have been proved right by the election results announced by INEC. In the 2011 election, GMB had scored a pitiable figure of 321,609, a figure he admirably improved upon to 2,443,193 in the 2011 election. GEJ, on the other hand, had garnered 2,1786,417 votes in the 2011 election, a figure that abysmally depleted to 1,821,461 in the just concluded elections. The scenario here shows that the South West was vertically and horizontally bifurcated between GEJ and GMB, albeit with GMB having an upper hand. Hear the results, and this point will be made clearer: Lagos – GMB (47.2%), GEJ (43.7%); Osun – GMB (59.6%), GEJ (38.8%); Oyo – GMB (59.9%), GEJ (35.4%); Ogun – GMB (57.8%), GEJ (39%); Ekiti – GMB (39.5%), GEJ (57.9%); Ondo – GMB (48.5%), GEJ (40.7%). Although I am not a rocket scientist or a mathematical Professor Chike Obi, the above figures clearly show a strength of about 55-45% or at worst, 60-40%, between GMB and GEJ, a clear indication that the Yorubas were saying yes and no to GMB. This means that he also does not have nearly half of the Yoruba race supporting him. He needs therefore, to hit the ground running, building bridges of understanding and playing pacifist politics, not one of grand standing and swash buckling, which the hawks around him will prefer in the mould of “winners-take-all”. GMB, are you hearing me, Sir?

WHY NON PAN-NIGERIAN MANDATE BY GMB: THE ARITHMETIC Nigeria is made up of six geo-political zones; North East, North West, North Central, South South, South East and South West. SOUTH SOUTH In the 2011 election, GMB had garnered a mere 49,978 votes from six whole states in the entire South South, made up of the six states of Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross Rivers and Akwa Ibom. GEJ had run home with 6,118,608 in 2011 and 4,714,725 votes in the 2015 election. In the just concluded elections, GMB managed to increase this pitiable figure from 49,978 to just 418,590. Gosh! We are talking of popular votes in six whole states here. See the figures in percentage – Delta (3.8%), Rivers (4.2%), Edo (41.6%), Cross River (6.2%), Bayelsa (1.4%) and Akwa Ibom (5.7%). GMB got the required 25% only in Edo State, out of six states! Can he ridicule this rejective loud state- NORTH CENTRAL In 2011, GMB got 1,744,575 votes from the ment? No, he dares not. SOUTH EAST North Central geopolitical zone, a figure he inIn the South East, comprising of Imo, Anambra, creased to 2,411,013 votes in the 2015 election. Abia, Ebonyi and Enugu states, GMB had scored a On the contrary, GEJ tumbled from his 3,376,570 meagre 20,355 votes in the 2011 election, a figure he votes in 2011, to 1,715,798 votes. But, even at that, minimally upped to 196,247 in the just concluded the figure shows that more than 40% of the North election. On the contrary, GEJ had in 2011 garnered Central voters rejected GMB at the polls. Let us 4,983,246 and in 2015, the lower figure of 2,464,090 look at the figures: Benue – GMB (54.7%), GEJ votes. This means that GMB could only manage (44.4%); Kogi – GMB (55.5%), GEJ (31%); Kwara the following dismal percentages in the South East – GMB (68.8%), GEJ (40%); Nassarawa – GMB – 3.4% (Abia), 2.6% (Anambra), 18.9% (Imo), 2.4% (42%), GEJ (48.5%); Niger – GMB (80.8%), GEJ (Enugu) and 0.7% (Ebonyi), the lowest percent- (18.3%); Plateau – GMB (43%), GEJ (55.9%). age in the entire election. He did not win 25% The emerging picture shows that although of the votes in any of the five South East states! GMB improved on his 2011 outing, while GEJ My God! Can GMB turn a blind eye to this? I performed below form, over 40% of the North believe not. Central geopolitical zone still rejected Buhari. In effect, the above pattern of voting means Can he afford to ignore this 40%? No, never. that two out of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones had, through their popular votes, totally rejected • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

BUSY BODY

By Aliu Eroje

SERIOUS PROBLEM AREAS GMB’s APPARENT LACK OF A PANNIGERIAN MANDATE GMB’s task is made more daunting and comPrinted and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos. Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: 0902 928 1425, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: EMEKA MADUNAGU.