Buhari’s crush Boko Haram plans ‘large scale mentality will bombing’ during drown Nigeria Ramadan - DHQ -Ezeife }28&29 }3
SUNDAY Redeemed camp turns refugee site Sanctity of Truth
Sunday, JUNE 5, 2016 Vol. 3 No. 837
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...heartbreaking story of occupants
World mourns MUhammAd Ali }55 NEWS
Gunmen on rampage in rivers, kiLl two soldiers, 22 others
lVictoria: I don born two children here lPeace: My daughter was almost raped lRegina: I ran away from my pastor husband “Everyday, laptops, phones get missing. Men sleep with women. Young girls offer sex for favours. There are rumours of child kidnapping” RCCG: “Church is lenient but we evacuate them regularly”
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MISSILE LAUNCH THREAT
}4&5
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NLNG, Bonga IN DANGER
recovers N1.92trn from treasury looters }11
lZero oil output looms lWorst spill in history imminent lMore communities would be dislocated lMilitary on red alert lFulani herdsmen write Imo community, threaten reprisal
lBuhari
MASSOB: We’ll support Avengers
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SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
Contents | 05.06.16 BODY & SOUL
Passion for healthy living President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria,Prof. Ngozi Nnam is passionate about having Nigerian families imbibe proper nutritional habits; especially with the looming food crises in the country
}20&21
POLITICS
Tagging along The House of Representatives and the executive is forging a healthy relationship despite the initial squabble which greeted the emergence of Hon. Yakubu Dogara
}23
BUSINESS
Recession Buhari must drop his opposition against devaluation of the Naira and allow the economy to be market driven as well as restore peace in the Niger-Delta if Nigeria hopes to avert the looming recession
}43
FAITH
Passion We are committed to bridging the gap in fading reading culture in school
}32
SPORT
Team Nigeria Former World and Olympic champion, Daniel Igali, is sad that with less than two months to the Rio Olympics, Team Nigeria has showed no sign of winning any medal at the Games
}53
Magazine
Oil war Massive bombing of oil installations and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta has put the nation on the precipice
}8&9
SUNDAY
Editorial
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The curse called oil
ealth brings along with it some of the good things of life that is what distinguishes the rich from the poor. It becomes an absurdity to find a rich person begging for food to eat when he has all it takes to feed himself right inside his kitchen. That is the story of Nigeria today, one of the richest oil producing nations in the globe, running helter skelter unable to manage the resource with which God has abundantly blessed it. Once again the fuel lines are back and in the midst of plenty our government has no solution to the crisis. To be fair to the Muhammadu Buhari government, it did not put us in this mess. However, one of the reasons why compatriots believed in him as he campaigned for the Presidency last year was because his party, the All Progressives Alliance (APC), promised change. Expectations were high that a new regime would make Nigeria a better place to live in. Buhari was a special attraction especially when there was talk of managing our mono economy which depends on oil. Voters were made to believe that the APC candidate had read so many books on the Black Gold to back his experience as the pioneer chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). He was also minister of Petroleum. Just as Dr. Goodluck Jonathan was preparing his handover notes, scarcity of petroleum products enveloped the nation. Politicians blamed it on the outgoing government. Jonathan was even said to be sabotaging the incoming government through his cronies who were in control of importation and distribution of fuel. Less than six months into his Presidency, Buhari, who appointed himself Petroleum Minister, watched as his countrymen and women faced a harsh Yuletide. All pleas fell on deaf ears as commuters, transporters and traders went through difficulty at a time joy was the message. The present situation is not only worrisome it is a huge shame. It has remained the same old story that Nigerians were told right from the days of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Dollars, market forces, sabotage. The government will always blame every other
sector but itself. The petroleum ministry is headed by the President and the Minister of State is the Chairman of the NNPC. If between these two they cannot find a solution, the import is that we are in deep trouble. This country has four refineries yet we rush to other oil producing nations to import fuel. Nigeria produces oil and shamelessly continues to suffer the effects of the demon called market forces. The same politicians that promised to fix everything troubling this country seem to be dozing off while the people cry out in anger and pain. Presently there are plans to unbundle the NNPC as part of government’s determination to be seen as doing something. Reactions coming from oil workers indicate that we are in for a longer round of crisis as they claim the plan did not carry all stakeholders along. What this means is that in the next couple of weeks there will be more hardship for everyone. It will take meetings upon meetings to reach an agreement and experience has shown that since government and labour are like Iran and Iraq, always at war and never apart, instead of progress there will be a lot of drama. While all these are going on, the economy will continue to suffer. To show how our leaders have ruined this country through our oil wealth, a visit to countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will suffice. Many of those who failed to manage our oil now frequent the Middle East to squander our stolen wealth. Young Nigerian women go to the UAE to prostitute, many of our well trained doctors and nurses are the best in Saudi Arabia and our engineers are overseeing crude oil business in Qatar. A country so blessed cannot be so depleted in terms of manpower if we put our acts together. We are convinced just like our so called friends across the globe that while others have used oil wealth to oil their economy, Nigeria has used it to impoverish Nigerians. With nothing to show for all the trillions accruable from oil over the years we dare say the discovery of oil instead of curing our economic ailment has become a curse.
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
NEWS
RCCG auditorium turns refugee camp
The Redeem Christian Church of God (RCCG) auditorium along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is a place where Christian faithful congregate to worship and seek the face of God. However, there are others who have turned the hallowed auditorium into a place of abode where acts contrary to Christian beliefs are daily carried out. CAMILLUS NNAJI reports
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here is always a mixed multitude where the people of God gather to worship Him. The Redeem Christian Church of God (RCCG) auditorium is arguably one of the biggest church auditoria in the world. Week in week out, thousands of Christian faithful across the world gather at RCCG camp located along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to seek the face of God. Manifestation of God’s power, miracles, salvation, deliverance and healing are witnessed by worshippers. But while many come for salvation and other spiritual reasons and leave afterwards, some others take refuge in the camp permanently. Many who fall into the latter group are the unemployed, homeless and victims of broken marriages. There are yet others who take up residence there for immoral purposes. A 41-year old woman, simply identified as Regina, was squatting at a shadowy corner of the auditorium. She sat motionless, gazing at the empty chairs in the church when Sunday Telegraph visited. One would think she had come for a programme. Alas, she had been sojourning in the auditorium since last year! Regina is from Akwa Ibom State and was married to an Edo State indigene before their marriage crashed. She said: “I have been living here since last year because of marital problems. Aside making life unbearable for me, which could have claimed my life, my husband refused to pay my bride price. He is so irresponsible and has no regard for the union. I had to run for my life. Someone
introduced me to RCCG camp auditorium. When I found out that other people are living there, I decided to stay put.” Regina revealed the notorious life of some people staying in the auditorium. “Here, a lot of things are happening, thieves are staying here. Every day, laptops, phones and personal belongings get missing. At the back of the auditorium is where men sleep with women in the night, messing themselves up. Some young girls offer sex for favours. There was a time rumours of child kidnapping were spreading, because many children were born and raised here,” she said. Regina said that the very chilly nights, mosquito bites and creeping animals in the open auditorium made many ‘residents’ to fall ill. On how she made ends meet, she said she worked as an insurance marketer with AIICO insurance company, but could not cope with the little commission she was making. “All I need is to get something good doing or start a better business and rent a house. I have started other vocational training like soap and bead making and I pray by the time I am through, I can start the business and have a better life,” she said. About 20 metres from Regina’s tent, a 20-year-old nursing mother, Victoria, has her own corner. Victoria was delivered of a baby girl eight weeks ago. She has carved out a corner section, like a miniroom. She draped a mosquito net over some of the church’s plastic chairs and tied the tips to them. Inside the ‘room’ lay her twomonth-old baby. Victoria came around and
she wasn’t forthcoming with answers to our correspondent’s questions. He prodded her for a while and told her that talking about her challenges could attract help from the public. When she finally opened up, it was discovered that the two-month-old baby was Victoria’s second child in the camp from two different men. “I used to hawk soft drinks when I born this one, (pointing at a male child stand-
Boko Haram plans ‘large scale bombing’ during Ramadan - DHQ Emmanuel Onani Abuja
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he Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has alerted of plans by the Boko Haram sect to carry out “large scale bombings” during the Ramadan period. A statement by the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brig-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, said the suspected insurgents plan to leverage on the usual large gathering of worshippers during morning and evening prayer sessions, to carry out their plan.
He, therefore, enjoined the public to be more security conscious during the period. “Information available to this Headquarters indicated plans by terrorists to use the Ramadan periods which usually attracts gathering of large number of persons during morning and evening worships and prayers to carry out large scale bombings. “Against this background, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) wishes to, once again, advise the general public to be watchful of strange persons and objects in their localities par-
ticularly, around places of worships and to promptly report same to security agencies It is further to advice that adequate security and surveillance be evolved by respective places of worship to forestall any unwholesome acts by some unscrupulous elements. “The DHQ wishes to reassure law abiding citizens to go about their normal businesses while efforts are being made to eliminate the remnants of the terrorists from their hideouts as well as addressing other security challenges in the country,” the DDI said.
ing there). My newly born baby is only two months. All I need is assistance from people to relocate or start a business. They used to give house in the camp, but we have not been lucky,” Victoria said. Asked whether the church authorities are aware she was sleeping in an open auditorium with a two-monthold baby, she said that the task force was only interested in evacuating people from the auditorium and had not assisted in letting the church leaders know about her predicament. Further from Victoria is Mrs. Peace from Imo State who is on the run from a turbulent marriage with her husband from Ogun State. Peace was preparing vegetable soup in a tiny corner of the auditorium. She was there alone but had her cooking utensils almost complete. She started crying when asked to relate what made her to stay in the open auditorium. Peace had a sixyear old daughter with her called Divine Grace. The little girl attends a nursery and primary school at Congress Road, outside the camp. Peace narrated how the little girl was almost raped one night in the auditorium. It was her screaming that woke people up that night.
“What brought me here since July last year is both emotional and spiritual. I have a Pastor husband from one of the Pentecostal churches, but the harrowing experience with him made me to run for my life. I lived with a man that was fighting me spiritually, whenever I went for deliverance and prayers, he would be unhappy and become aggressive. When I became pregnant, the child kept shrinking in the womb, this was not normal. The prayers I attended revealed that my husband was responsible and he wanted me to die with the pregnancy so that he could bring in another woman. “One day, someone invited me to the RCCG camp for prayers. When the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, prayed that day, I saw a different thing at home. In the night, I fell into a trance and my husband was standing right in front of me, laughing loudly at me. Simultaneously, I started delivering a long snake from my private part. After that experience, I got relieved,” Peace said. Peace said her husband became both angry and nice to her the next morning. “He did two things that surprised me; he forced me
to eat with him and forced me to have sex with him, which was very unusual, when we were preparing for work that morning. Immediately he did these two things, my body changed and the problem started again. That was why I ran away for my life,” she added. A resident in the camp said there are many of them living in the auditorium. According to him, many of them are there because they cannot afford to pay for accommodation, some are there because of broken marriages, and some others stay back after the Holy Ghost congress which holds every first Friday of the month. Many of them are having children and sending them to school from there. RCCG’s code of conduct department used to evacuate them, but before you know it, they are back. A source from the department, who craved anonymity, said sometimes, they had to be lenient because the auditorium is a church. They are of the opinion that some people could be staying there to pray. When complaints of missing items and some other reports started coming, ‘we had no choice than to start chasing them away,’ he said.
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NEWS Paul Ogbuokiri, Kenneth Ofoma and Emmanuel Onani
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head of the threat issued by the Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force (JNDLF) for the launch of six missiles in different locations in the Niger Delta, there were indications, yesterday, that the Nigeria Armed Forces has been placed on red alert to forestall any untoward activity by any of the militant groups operating in the Niger Delta region. Sunday Telegraph learnt that troops of the Operation Pulo Shield, who were deployed in the region to check the excesses of the militants, have not only intensified their search for members of the Niger Delta Avengers ( NDA), they are under strict istruction not to allow them wreck any more havoc to strategic oil installations across the oil- rich region. Investigations revealed that the Nigerian military has stepped up surveillance and intelligence gathering operations in the Niger Delta region, in a bid to frustrate attempts by agitators to cause more damage to critical oil facilities in the area. For the umpteenth time, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has restated its vow to ensure the indivisibility of the country. Sunday Telegraph gathered from highly placed security sources, that the military authorities have been analysing the combined threats by the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) as well as the Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force (JNDLF), to launch three missiles on Tuesday, June 7, and also bomb more critical assets in the oilrich area. The NDA group had claimed responsibility for the bombing of Chevron and Agip installations in the last few days; a development, which led to about 800,000 drop in the daily production of crude oil. However, a military source, who spoke in confidence with Sunday Telegraph, said the threats were being given serious consideration, as the authorities were not ready to let the situation degenerate further. “Considering the damage these guys have caused so far, no responsible military will waive their threats aside. I would not give you details, but all I can say is that we have made sufficient deployment (land, sea and air), to contain possible threats to national security. “We have the capacity to contain these guys, but you see, as a responsible military, we observe human rights, rules of en-
SUNDAY 5 JUNE, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
Missile Launch Threat: NLNG, Bonga, other oil assets in danger gagement in our operations,” he said. Meanwhile, the DHQ said yesterday the Nigerian Armed Forces will do all within its constitutional power, to keep Nigeria one. Acting Director of Defence Information (DDI), made the commitment in a brief chat with Sunday Telegraph, said: “Nigerian Armed Forces will ensure the indivisibility of this country.” The emergence of the JNDLF last week, in the already tension soaked region, pledging allegiance to the dreaded Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), has further put Nigeria’s key oil and gas installations in a heightened danger, even as the Nigerian defence forces have vowed to crush the insurrection militarily. The new group told the bewildered nation on Thursday that it will begin to launch six missiles in the region on Tuesday, June 7, in an operation, it said, would surprise Nigerians and the entire world. JNDLF in a statement signed by General Akotebe Darikoro, Commander, General Duties; General Torunnanaowei Latei, Creeks Network Coordinator; General Agbakakuro Owei-Tauro, Pipelines Bleeding Expert; and General Pulokiri Ebiladei of its Intelligence Bureau, said it had observed that President Muhammadu Buhari was bent on breaking up the country and that it was set for the proposal. It warned the Nigerian military to peacefully leave Ijaw communities and not attempt to deploy helicopters to the South South zone as it is going to bring them down. It also warned that no flight operations should take place within the country’s airspace as the missiles were capable of bringing down any aircraft no matter how big. NDA soft -pedals However, the Niger Delta Avengers has appealed to the JRC and any other militant group that claims to have capacity to launch missiles to desist from acts capable of derailing the current struggle. In a statement posted on its website on Saturday, the NDA acknowledged the emergence of new groups in the Niger Delta struggle but cautioned that their participation should not be a licence to impunity.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (left), with Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu (right) and member of the Kebbi State Executive Council, Abubakar Imam (middle) during a meeting on the Lagos Kebbi Agricultural Development Partnership at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State...on Saturday
“The groups are much now, both real and unreal but if you are really fighting for the liberation of the Niger Delta people, the high command of the Avengers is calling on you not to attack any soldier and those claiming to have anti- aircraft missiles should desist from targeting any aircraft. “Let us be careful not to offend God in the process of trying to liberate our people from the shackles of the Nigerian government because we need God more than anything right now. We also need the international communities as well. Hence, we must desist from any life threatening actions that will derail our genuine struggle for our people,” the statement read. The advisory issued by the spokesperson of the NDA, Mudoch Agbinibo, urged all the militant groups in the region to avoid harassing oil workers and soldiers, but rather assist any oil worker or soldier found in distress. Agbinibo said that as long as the military war planes hovering round Ijaw towns and villages have not struck a soul or destroyed any property, there was no need for any one to attack the troops, their aircraft and gunboats FG may abandon military option Sequel to the close door meeting between President Muhammadu Buhari and EX-Presidents Goodluck Jonathan Olusegun
Obasanjo, respectively, on Friday, the Presidency has reportedly deployed political office holders, top officials of the Federal Government and ministers from the Niger Delta region back home to commence dialogue with the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) and other militants, who are allegedly involved in the destruction of oil pipelines. Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Ita Enang, made the disclosure yesterday while fielding questions from journalists, stressing that the Presidency has no intention of using force to resolve the crisis because it might escalate the country’s oil production decline. “Federal Government officials are presently in their various states dialoguing not only with their respective governors but aggrieved elements on the best way to resolving the problems arising from the bombing of oil installations in the Niger Delta region. “Ministers of Niger Delta, Interior and Coordinator of the Amnesty Office have been taking actions consistent with their powers.”Almost all the ministers and officers from the Niger Delta region have returned to their respective states. They are in their respective zones and blocs to talk to their leaders and aggrieved persons on the need for us to maintain peace.
“I will not tell you what Mr. President wants to do in person, but these are officers and offices which are dealing with the matter. What I know they have done, which some of us are involved in doing by virtue of coming from that zone and by virtue of working with them, is telling our people that the economy of the people is bleeding, and the country is hemorrhaging and that we cannot, given the low price of oil, go to certain actions that would further reduce the earnings of Nigeria. “We have lost several earnings in terms of price, so we shouldn’t lose more earnings in terms of production. I am sure that you are aware that we budgeted 2.2 million barrel per day and production few weeks ago, lowered to 1.4 million per day and it is climbing to 1.6 and 1.7 million per day and that is capable of affecting the money expected from oil,” he said. The military had consistently vowed not to negotiate with the militants or even the pro-Biafra agitators, but would rather crush them. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Gabriel Olonisakin, on Thursday in Lagos said that despite the monstrous attacks on oil pipelines and gas installations by the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), will not compel the Armed Forces to call for negotiation with the criminals. This is even as the
Military had earlier on Wednesday explained that it killed dozens and injuring no fewer than 300 proBiafra agitators in Onitsha and Asaba during a Biafra Day remembrance procession, in self defence. Worst Oil Spill But there are fears that if the impending military confrontation leads to the bombing of major oil and gas facilities, the massive oil spill in Ogoniland would be a child’s play as any attack on the country’s deep offshore oil facilities will pollute Nigeria’s over 900 nautical miles of maritime territory which Nigeria’s 10 years budget may not be able to clean up. The United Nations had once declared Nigeria and Venezuala as countries with the worst oil spill records in the world. A study by the UN Environment Programme at the instance of the Nigerian government, which was published in 2011, found that pollution in the Ogoni alone would require over $1 billion to clean up. Military Siege on Oporoza Meanwhile, the six-day military siege in Oporoza which has caused humanitarian crisis with thousands rendered homeless, was called off on Friday by the Joint Military Task Force (JTF), without arresting ex-militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, who Continues on page 6
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 5 JUNE, 2016
NEWS
NLNG, Bonga, other oil assets in danger Continues from page 4
Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki (left), presenting a souvenir to the Chairman, Kautal Hore Socio-cultural Association, Jigawa Branch, Umar Kabir Hadejia, during a courtesy visit by the group, in Abuja…on Thursday
Black Monday: How soldiers killed 81 members - IPOB •Says gruesome killings can’t deter them •Rights group wants Army Commander sacked Steve Uzoechi, Kenneth Ofoma,
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he Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared May 30, 2016, a ‘Black Monday’ even as it revealed that 81 of their members who were part of a peaceful procession in commemoration of the Biafran struggle were murdered in cold blood by the Nigerian military. A statement signed by the spokesman of the group, Emma Powerful, said that the slain members were neither armed nor violent but were part of a peaceful procession in remembrance of their slain kinsmen. The statement declared that IPOB will bury their dead and urged the international community to keep an eye on the ugly developments unfolding in Nigeria. It read in part, “As we prepare for the funeral of our 81 dead colleagues slaughtered on Black Monday, we appeal to the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, Africa Union and ECOWAS to monitor the funeral procession, as we are almost certain that the blood thirsty military will again shoot to kill, only to rush to the media and lie as usual that they were attacked. We are confident more than ever, that our freedom is nearer than ever.” While noting that there has been unprecedented increase in their mem-
bership in spite of the growing persecution and violent intimidation from the Nigerian government, IPOB pledges to remain non-violent in spite of the provocation. “As the oppressor continues to slaughter us in cold blood, in the misguided belief that killing us will frighten us into falling in love with an already failed state, thereby abandoning our struggle for freedom, we assure them that the principal actors of this genocide will not escape justice in due course,” the statement read. The group expressed their gratitude for the massive outpouring of emotions and solidarity from across the country, especially from people outside the old Eastern Nigeria, “who through visits, gifts and solidarity messages identified with our peaceful struggle for freedom from slavery and the sad and bloody genocide of Black Monday, May 30th 2016. “We thank religious, traditional, traders and student groups for their overwhelming support and assistance as we attend to over 240 of our members in various hospitals, victims of the Black Monday genocide. And of course, we appreciate the groups from the old Eastern Region who met in Enugu, Friday, and agreed to mobilise fully in support of our prayer for a referendum. We pray that
as they meet in Umuahia in three weeks to adopt a final decision, that God will guide them to choose freedom over slavery,” the statement added. In a related development, a rights advocacy group, Kingdom Human Rights Foundation, has called for the immediate removal of the General Officer Commanding the 82 Division of the Nigeria Army, Enugu, BrigadierGeneral Ibrahim Attahiru, for allegedly invading the Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital, Nnewi. A statement by the foundation decried the reported impunity of the soldiers who stormed the hospital and dragged away injured members of IPOB who were being treated for various degrees of gunshot wounds inflicted on them by the Nigerian army. The document signed by its Director of the Foundation, Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, read in part, “Kingdom Human Rights Foundation is, therefore, disgusted by the report that the Nigerian military invaded the Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital, caused pandemonium by shooting sporadically into the air, and forcefully took 20 victims away to an unknown destination, which resulted in the death of some of the victims.” Okere argued that the act is a deliberate denial of medical care to an injured patience, “which is not only wicked, but also
a crime against humanity, punishable by international laws in accordance with the Statute of Rome. We have, therefore, petitioned the International Criminal Court on this barbaric and cruel demonstration of arrogant impunity by the Nigerian military. While the group has concluded arrangement to seek redress in court, Okere urged President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately relieve Brigadier-General Ibrahim Attahiru, General Officer Commanding the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army Enugu, of his position as he has brazenly demonstrated ‘deep-seated hatred for the Igbos of South East Nigeria and must be held accountable for this grave constitutional breach and reckless impunity.’ IPOB has said that they “are confident more than ever, that our freedom is nearer than ever. We pledge to remain non-violent as we welcome new converts with out-stretched arms,” a statement signed by the spokesman of the group, Emma Powerful said. He added: “As the oppressor continues to slaughter us in cold blood, in the misguided belief that killing us will frighten us into falling in love with an already failed state, thereby abandoning our struggle for freedom, we assure them, that the principal actors of this genocide will not escape justice in due course.”
repeatedly denied link with Niger Delta Avengers. Notwithstanding the withdrawal of the military, 24 hours after militants, in a surprise attack, three days ago, killed two soldiers, six civilians and sank a military houseboat in Warri South Local Government Area (LGA), Sunday Telegraph learned that the running battle between the Joint Task Force( JTF ) and the NDA, continues. Also, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) on Friday, said; “The situation in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria is rapidly deteriorating and getting out of control.” Spokesperson of the council, Mr. Eric Omare, in a statement, said: “The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), worldwide calls on President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently and personally take charge of the management of the process to return peace and normalcy to the region.” “In the last 72 hours, there have been reported cases of attacks and killing of soldiers, civilians working in house boats and attacks on oil facilities in Ogbeinbiri, Bayelsa State and Forcados Export Line, Delta State. MASSOB declares supprt for Niger Delta militants The Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) yesterday declared total support to the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) and other pro-Biafra groups from the Niger Delta region. MASSOB leader, Uchenna Madu in statement made available to Sunday Telegraph in Enugu expressed satisfaction with the courage selflessness and consistency with which the Avengers and other “Biafran warriors” were pursuing their mission. But the MASSOB leader said blowing up of oil pipelines by NDA, “shows and proves the positiveness and acceptability of Biafra by our brethren across the Niger, it also rubbished the earlier diversionary, cowardice, stupid and negative comments/statements and position of some leaders of ethnic nationalities of the South-South who were brainwashed against Biafra. “The activities of the current Niger Delta Warriors are a natural confirmation that Biafra stretches towards the gulf of Guinea. The natural inhabitants and indigenous people of these lands are Biafrans by birth but Nigeria by citizens.
MASSOB has made it open that we want Biafra though we chose non violence approach; we shall also support every genuine and legitimate methodology and approach chosen by any group towards Biafran self determination,” he noted According to the statement, it is because of the non violence approach of MASSOB that the Nigerian security forces have killed thousands of MASSOB members and other groups’ members since 1999 when the current struggle started. “These extra judicial killings of non violence and unarmed Biafra agitators have gone unchecked by Nigerian Government and international watchdogs against human rights abuses, brutalities, genocides and pogroms including United Nations. “The Western world seems not to react against the ethnic cleansing of our people because of economic and diplomatic interest in Biafra natural treasures which they aligned with Nigeria, they kept their hypocritical eyes closed against the fate of over 60 million Biafrans.” The MASSOB leader said that Nigeria and her likes understand the only language of violence. “Today, Buhari’s soldiers are being disgraced, economic power block being dismantled, diplomatic relations being shattered, his Government in disarray even himself is confused because of the activities of Biafran agitators in the Eastern region. Our comrades from Niger Delta who are more United and focused than groups from Igbo based hinterland should not relent as the knees of our oppressors shall bow soon. Meanwhile, the MASSOB leader has stated that even though he instructed MASSOB members to mark the anniversary of Biafra in churches and their homes quietly, the Nigeria security forces still attacked and arrested some of them in their churches. He said some of those arrested and arraigned have been released after meeting the bail conditions, while others are still struggling to meet the bail conditions. Though he did not give a breakdown of the figure of those released and those yet to be released, Madu stressed that they were not perturbed by the incarceration since they were ready to pay even the ultimate price in order to achieve the freedom of Biafrans from Nigeria.
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SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
news Steve Uzoechi
T OWERRI
here is palpable anxiety among residents of Irete community, a suburb of Owerri, the Imo State capital, following speculation that Fulani herdsmen have notified the community, through a letter, of their plans for a reprisal attack. A resident of Irete, who pleaded anonymity, told newsmen yesterday in Owerri that Fulani herdsmen dropped letters informing Irete residents to prepare for a reprisal attack against them by the nomads. The source noted that the herdsmen claimed that Irete people have been killing and eating their cattle which they sometime graze across the area. Eze Ethelbert Ekwelibe, the traditional ruler of Irete Autonomous Community, confirmed the information adding: “Residents of the community have been apprehensive since last Sunday when they got the
Tension, as Fulani herdsmen write Imo community information. “I have taken necessary precautionary measures to avert possible attack and bloodshed by alerting the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Taiwo Lakanu, the Divisional Police Officer of Ogbaku and the state chairman of Imo State Traditional Rulers’ Council of the matter,” he said. Kwelibe added: “Since that Sunday, police have been sending its personnel to provide security in Irete, but added that despite such arrangement that most Irete people are still jittery and have abandoned their farms due to fear.” The traditional ruler appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Rochas Okorocha, and National Assembly members to urgently intervene
in the matter to prevent any unpleasant consequences. “We do not want to experience the kind of things that happened at Nimbo, Enugu State and Agatu in Benue State. What we are pleading for, is for President Buhari and the National Assembly to take proactive steps to avert any possible danger,” he said. Our correspondent, however, learnt that the community has secretly mobilized their youths from within and those living outside the community believing that they cannot entirely trust their welfare in the hands of the police and Army in the face of an
attack by the herdsmen. But Alhaji Maru Haruna, the Secretary, Obinze Garki Cattle Dealers Association, told our correspondent that cattle dealers at the market were surprised to hear that Irete people were nursing animosity against them due to the speculated attack by suspected Fulani herdsmen. “Our business is only to travel to the north to buy and sell at Obinze Garki Cattle Market; we do not engage in rearing of these cattle because we usually buy and stock the feed we give to them until we sell them. “Anybody linking cattle dealers at Obinze with such
matter is making serious mistake because we are not herdsmen and do not live with cattle herdsmen here as well,” he said. Alhaji Adamu Sokoto, chairman Hausa Community South-East Zone, admitted that the same information had been brought to him, saying: “Immediately I got the information, I summoned meeting of all Hausa community in Imo and presented the matter.’’ Sokoto said that every Hausa person living in Imo has been advised against any act capable of causing civil unrest. “I was born in Imo and by the help of God I am over
80 years, since my parents came here, we have been living in peace, and Imo people are very hospitable people. “All I am saying is that anything that will cause problem must be seriously nipped in the bud to encourage peace, unity and love of every Nigeria irrespective of where he live,” he said. Mr Andrew Enwerem, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), said the command received unconfirmed report that Fulani herdsmen were planning an attack on Irete people and had taken proactive measures.
Fayose begins sympathy strike with staff Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti
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kiti State governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose has commenced indefinite strike to express support for workers in the state civil service who have been on strike the past 12 days. Fayose said the move was necessary to show concern for the plight of workers who had not received salaries in the last five months, disclosing he had paid the January salaries of local government workers, primary school teachers and subventions to state-owned tertiary institutions. The governor spoke in Ado-Ekiti, capital of the state, at the weekend on
a monthly programme tagged ‘Governor Explains’, broadcast live across radio and television stations in the state. Organised labour, comprising Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiation Council(JNC), had announced an indefinite strike last Wednesday, owing to what it saw as the governor’s unwillingness to respond to calls for the payment of five months salaries owed by the state government. The unions had particularly taken umbrage at the governor’s statement that he would not sell his family to pay workers, noting such statement was both “insensitive and inflammatory”.
Ambode denies kidnap attempt on mother
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he Lagos State Governor on Saturday denied media reports claiming that a kidnap attempt was made on his mother, Mrs. Christianah Ambode at her residence in Gbagada area of the state on Friday evening. The governor, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, denied the media report, saying that it was not a true reflection of what transpired at the residence of his mother. An online newspaper had claimed that heavily armed gunmen invaded the governor’s mother’s residence and disarmed the octogenarian’s police detail in an apparent
attempt to abduct her. The newspaper had further reported that the unfortunate development took place at about 7:30pm, while a back-up team arrived at the scene at about8:10pm. Responding, Aruna said: “Whilst it is true that a commotion occurred at the residence of the governor’s mother on the fateful day, it was, however, far from the truth that it was a kidnap attempt. “What really transpired was that a man parked his vehicle in front of the residence of the governor’s mother and the security detail attached to the building asked him not to park there so as not to block the entrance.
L-R: Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi; Senator Obinna Ogba and Chairman, Ibeto Group, Chief Cletus Ibeto at the signing of an agreement for the revitalisation of NIGERCEM, Nkalagu in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State on Friday.
Bail condition: Oyo NLC leaders remain in Agodi Prison till Monday Sola Adeyemo Ibadan
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ollowing their inability to completely perfect their bail conditions on Friday, the seven leaders of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Oyo State, who were charged with disruption of public peace, will remain in the Agodi Federal Prison till Monday. The unionists led by the Chairman, Waheed Olojede were at the Iyaganku Magistrate’s Court till late evening on Friday, and had to be conveyed to the prison following the inability of the court officials to establish verification of the property of their sureties. They had led thousands of workers to the Parliament Building of the Government Secretariat on Wednesday where a stakeholders meet-
ing to discuss partnership running of the educational institutions in the between the government and investors willing to adopt the schools was to hold. They disrupted the forum and chased out the participants in attendance. The detained union leaders granted bail by Magistrate Jamiu Adebisi also include: Mr. Sikiru Bayo Titilola Sodo, Oseni Aderemi, Oparinde Kehinde, Falade Akinyele, Ogundeji Kofoworola and Adegbogun Titi. According to the prosecutor in the case: M. A Ojeah, the accused were alleged to have ‘destroyed chairs valued at N1million; disturb public peace; assaulted the SSG, Olalekan Alli and beat him with sticks thereby causing him bodily harm; threatened the governor while holding meeting with stakeholders and assembled in an unlawful procession to
the Oyo State Government Secretariat carrying Nigeria Union of Teachers banners and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 88’. Meanwhile, other leaders and members of the union including civil society groups yesterday converged on the premises of the prison demanding the release of their leaders, as well as quashing all the charges preferred against them by the police. Addressing the union members and civil servants present yesterday to show their solidarity with the leaders, the treasurer of the union, Bosun Daramola said the arrest of the labour leaders by the Oyo State government was part of the ploys to force the labour unions in the state to support the planned privatisation of education in the state.
He said that the union was aware that the arrest, arraignment and incarceration of the union leaders was a deliberate gimmick of the Oyo State government to weaken the determination of the union to lead the entire suffering members of workers in the state. The treasurer said that the public and parents of students in public schools in the state that they remained resolute and no amount of arrest and prosecution of the union leaders would deter them from the struggle to rescue the public schools in the state from being sold. The treasurer said that the union demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the NLC Chairman and six other labour leaders, while telling the government to withdraw all trumped-up charges leveled against the incarcerated labour leaders.
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
News
Buhari, Okorocha condemn Kano killing, as Igbo group threatens revenge Anule Emmanuel, Muhammad Kabir, Igbeaku Orji, Umuahia and Steve Uzoechi, Dan Atori
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resident Muhammadu Buhari and Imo State Govenor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha have condemned Thursday’s killing in Kano of an Igbo trader, Mrs Bridget Agbahime, even as a group, Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) threatens to avenge the killing of any Igbo in any part of the country in the name of religion saying that enough is enough. The warning came just as the police in Kano have confirmed the arrest of three suspects for their involvements in the killing and vowed to bring the culprits to book. In a statement issued Saturday, by Mr Femi Adesina, his Special Adviser, Media, the President described as sad and regrettable the develop-
ments that led to the killing of Mrs Agbahime. “President Buhari condoles with the husband of the deceased, Pastor Mike Agbahime, the family and relations, praying that God would give them the fortitude to bear the loss,” the statement said. It also goes on to say that Buhari commended the law enforcement agents for apprehending the prime suspect behind the killing, as well as the Kano State government, which summoned a meeting of Christian and Islamic leaders, widower of the deceased, and security agencies, as soon as the sad event occurred on Friday. “The incident at Kofar Wambai market, Kano city, is utterly condemnable, and the state government has been quite proactive. Let us ensure that we keep the peace, as justice will be done. Let us learn to respect each other’s faith, so that we can know each other and live together in peace,” the President said.
The police spokesman, DSP Musa Majiya told Sunday Telegraph yesterday, that since the incident, their men have swung into action and promised that within a short time they will get to those involved in the killing. However, in a related development, the Ohinaze Ndigbo in Kano, through its President Chief Chris Azuka, condemned the killing and called for investigation although he admitted that both Islam and Christianity preach loves and peace. Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and prominent community and religious leaders, also on Friday night, strongly condemned the killing of the woman at Kofar Wambai Market Rising from a meeting, chaired by the governor and attended by prominent people, including the state Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Ransome Bello, husband of the deceased, Pastor Mike
Agbahime, Islamic scholars and security agencies, the stakeholders described the incident as “illegal, unfortunate and regrettable”. In a six-point resolution personally read by the governor after the meeting, the stakeholders consoled the husband of the deceased, Pastor Mike Agbahime; stressing that “the killing of his 74-year-old wife is illegal and unjustifiable.” Governor Ganduje asserted that justice must be done in the matter in accordance the provisions of the Constitution. And reacting from Owerri, the capital of Imo State, Governor Rochas Okorocha also condemned the murder, describing the killing as the height of recklessness and wickedness. According to a statement signed by Okorocha’s spokesman, Sam Onwuemeodo, the governor took steps and went beyond the media reports to confirm that the woman in question was truly from Mbaitoli Local Government of the state.
The governor thereafter called on all relevant security agencies in Kano State to leave no stone unturned in carrying out thorough investigation into the killing of the woman, and also stop at nothing to bring those who carried out the murder to book and ‘essentially pay dearly for their wicked act’. The governor also appealed to Imo indigenes in Kano State to remain calm to enable law enforcement agents do their job by carrying out the needed investigation into the matter and also take the necessary actions. In Umuahia, Abia State, Igbo youths under the aegis of Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), said it would no longer tolerate such barbarity as the beheading of Igbo woman in Kano and the burning of Igbo trader and his shop in Niger State by religious bigots. The National Vice President of the group, Mazi Obinna Achuonye; and the Chairman of States’ Chairmen of OYC, Alex Okemiri, made the position known yesterday in a press statement The council vowed that
“no attack on any Igbo man or woman within or outside Igbo land will henceforth go unpunished”. Meanwhile, the Igbo Community in Pandogari, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State has put behind them last Sunday’s clash that claimed the lives of four of them with a pledge not to relocate from the town contrary to rumours making the rounds in the area that they were leaving. The leader of the community in the town, Chief Chukwudimanyi Chuzzy made this pledge to Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello when he visited the town yesterday. Governor Sani Bello reassured the people of government’s resolve to ensure safety of lives and property of the people in the state. He stressed the need for tolerance and peaceful coexistence between the irrespective of socio-economic or tribal differences. The governor then challenged the people to expose drug dealers in their midst to enable government deal with such “agents of destruction”.
Gunmen kill two soldiers, 22 others in Rivers Emmanuel Masha
Port Harcourt
I L-R: Wife of the Guest Speaker, Mrs. Onuzo; Parish Coordinator, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Resurrection Parish 11, Pastor Charles Iyayi; Guest Speaker, Dr. Okey Onuzo and Pastor in charge of Region 11, Pastor Oretayo Adetola, during the church’s marriage seminar in Lagos...yesterday. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI
NigerCem to begin production as Ebonyi, Ibeto sign pact Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI
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ement production will soon commence at the Nigeria Cement Company in Nkalagu, Ebonyi State following the signing of deed of understanding/ terms of settlement between NIGERCEM and representatives of the four host communities --Nkalagu, Nkalaha, Umuhuali, Amaezu and the Ebonyi State Government. With the signing of the pact in Abakaliki on Friday, the legal battle that had in the past affected the reopening of the once foremost indigenous cement production firm has been put to rest. The
parties resolved that papers be filed in court on Monday so that the suit filed by Eastern BulkCem, a subsidiary of Ibeto Group could be withdrawn. The immediate past administration, led by Martin Elechi, had consistently closed their door for an out of court settlement, against Dr. Cletus Ibeto, who had tried to revamp the cement factory which was popularly known as Nkalagu Cement Factory. In January 2015 for instance, the Elechi administration warned Ibeto Cement Company against what it called illegal entry into the premises of NigerCem, say-
ing its ownership was a subject of dispute in the courts. But on Friday, an elated Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi; Ibeto and the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Cement Production, Hon. Sunday Ugwuocha, described the signing of the MoU as milestone towards the revitalisation of the company. Governor Umahi, who said he had in line with the popular demand of the host communities promised to allow Ibeto revamp the firm, noted that the journey to its realisation was not an easy one. He said: “When we were campaigning on the Divine Mandate platform, the only
request that the communities made was that Ibeto should be allowed to come and revamp NIGERCEM and we did promise them that that was going to be done.” Umahi, who thanked the Cement Production Implementation Committee set up by his administration, for doing a good job assured Ebonyi people that their 10 per cent equity ownership of NIGERCEM was still intact. He added “My prayers all the time is for the land of Ebonyi to vomit all limestone, gold, the frankincense, silver, the bauxite, lead, zinc that the land has swallowed, and it has to start with Ibeto.
n two separate incidents on Friday night and Saturday, gunmen killed two soldiers just as suspected cultists raided a community and killed 23 persons in Rivers State. The soldiers were killed by gunmen who opened fire on men of the Joint Military Task Force, stationed immediately after the Port Harcourt International Airport junction in Omagwa, in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state. Sources said the gunmen disguised as passengers in a commercial bus, but started shooting at the soldiers, who were inspecting vehicles for incriminating items. The sources added that two of the soldiers lost their lives instantly, saying that the gunmen were angered by the alleged N100 bribe which the soldiers usually collect from the motorists at two checkpoints mounted at Omagwa and Isiokpo junctions. Sunday Telegraph gathered that soldiers were drafted to the area, following cult clashes that have claimed tens of lives since late last year, when two cult groups battled for supremacy, especially in Ubima community, where some residents fled. The killing of the two sol-
diers prompted soldiers at the Omagwa JTF checkpoint after the Port Harcourt International Airport junction to force passengers to cross the checkpoints with theirs hand above their heads. Sequel to the killing of the soldiers, and alleged threat by the gunmen to attack Isiokpo Police Station, police officers, working there reportedly fled the station. In the second attack, suspected members of the dreaded ‘Greenlanders,’ a cult group in a running battle with the ‘Icelanders’ over turf control across some local governments, attacked Aluu Community, also in Ikwerre Local Government Area. Sources said that the attack was carried out at night by the Greenlanders, who shot sporadically at buildings and any target on sight, including a nursing mother. The suspected cultists were said to be looking for some members of the Icelanders, but started shooting at residents of the community, when they could not get the real targets. After the shooting, the Icelanders were said to have strolled out of the community as residents ran into the bush to escape death. Efforts to contact the spokesman of the Two Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Bori Camp, Capt. Eli Lazarus, were unsuccessful due to network challenges.
The Sunday Magazine
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Oil: A nation’s mainstay For many decades, crude oil was the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy. But in this report, PAULINE ONYIBE writes that massive bombing of oil installations and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta has put the nation on the precipice
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he minute settlement of Oloibiri, a district headquarters in Ogbia in the defunct Eastern Region, shot into limelight in the second half of the 20th Century when workers of Shell Darcy converged on the town in search of the black gold. However, the explorers made history in June 1956 when they struck the black gold in the swampy communities of Otuabagi, Otuogidi. The first crude oil well was named Oloibiri Well after the Oloibiri community by the prospecting company. However, the discovery of the black gold, instead of accelerating the growth of the host communities, has turned out to be a pain to them. Oloibiri community today lacks the basic necessities of life as the black gold, an inexhaustible asset, has since dried up while Shell has moved to another location, regardless of the dislocation caused to the locals. Today the people still face basic development challenges and environmental pollution caused by oil spills. The site of the Oloibiri well has been overtaken by weeds, just as the proposed research institute sponsored by the Federal Government is still at foundation level. The Federal Government had proposed to build an oil museum at Oloibiri, but the project was not actualised. In spite of the community’s peaceful disposition that led to uninterrupted oil production for several decades, development has eluded that community. There is nothing tangible to showcase Otuabagi/Otuogidi axis land owners of the Oloibiri oil fields as owners of the place where crude oil was first discovered in West Africa. Also, there is nothing on ground to show that Emago-Kugbo is the first loading bay which launched Nigeria into the elite club of oil producing countries. The Oloibiri case is one among many in the Niger Delta region as the effects of oil exploration and exploitation are everywhere. Marine life and aquatic animals are virtually extinct. Indigenous occupational industries are comatose. Erosion is widespread. Oil pollution of the very sources of life for the ordinary people manifests in everything from their fishing equipment to the water they drink. The oil companies are certainly not helping the situation by its flagrant display of insensitivity. Very evident at the drilling sites, all the amenities that make life tick are to be found -electricity, water, high-powdered marine transport vehicles and health facilities. Yet, within a short radius of this drilling haven, there is a stark disparity in living standards as you will be looking at light from the dark end of these com-
munities. An example of one of these spills and the disdain with which the multinational oil company reacted, is the one in Ikarama community of Yenagoa Local Government, which happened some time ago. Rather than instituting a proper clean up, the oil firm in question opted for the ‘quick fix’, consequently affecting farms and putting houses and lives at risk. Ikarama community in Okordia clan has been rightly observed to be the one place that has experienced more oil spills than any other community in the state and, probably in the whole of the Niger Delta. For instance, in less than three weeks, the community experienced six major oil spills that have spewed thousands of barrels of crude into the environment. The communities are presently no go areas despite the vast resources that have accrued to the Nigerian state from the region. Most of the communities do not have potable water. The inhabitants drink directly from the creeks in which they defecate, which is the reason there is always the outbreak of cholera and other water borne diseases in the area. Perhaps, the most disturbing is that oil exploration and exploitation in the Niger Delta is carried out without regard to international health and safety standards or observed minimum levels of protection to the environment from pollution arising from oil spillage and gas flaring. The Niger Delta region cuts across nine states in southern Nigeria which include Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo and Rivers states. The belt has emerged as one of the most ecologically sensitive regions in Nigeria. Oil and gas are the main sources of revenue from the region, accounting for about 97 per cent of the country’s total export. The pollution and lack of attention to it over time is what has fuelled anger among the people of the Niger Delta. Some of the militants claim that their grievances have not been addressed since the 2009 amnesty deal signed with the government of late President Musa Yar’Adua. However, one must give kudos to the recent efforts of the Federal Government to clean up oil spills in the area with the launch, last Thursday, of the exercise by
Ex-president Obasanjo
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who stood in for President Muhammadu Buhari. Under the plan, government, along with multinational oil companies and donor agencies, plans to spend about $1 billion over 30 years to try to undo the degradation of the environment caused by over 50 years of oil activity in the area. With almost no hospitals in the creeks and wooden dugout canoes being the common mode of transport, parents say sick children often cannot live long enough to reach where they can get treatment. Furthermore, the locals are not helping matters as they indulge in sabotage which is carried out primarily through what is known as 'bunkering', whereby the saboteur attempts to tap petroleum products from inside the pipeline. Morris Alagoa of the Environmental Rights Action (ERA) believes oil spillage has a major impact on the ecosystem into which it is released and may constitute ecocide, immense tracts of the mangrove forests, which are especially susceptible to oil. Ostensibly these were some of the pain that existed back then in the mid-60s that brought forth the first Niger Delta militant in Major Isaac Adaka Boro, who declared
President Buhari
the Niger Delta Republic on February 23, 1966 and instituted the 12-day revolution to press home the demands of his people and to ask for the control of their resources. Thirty-two years after Boro’s failed attempt, the Ijaws stepped up their agitation with the Kaiama Declaration in 1998. On December 11 of that year, 5,000 Ijaw people, representing over 40 Ijaw clans, chose the historic town of Kaiama, which incidentally is the birth place of Boro, to articulate their aspirations for the Ijaw people, and to demand an end to 40 years of environmental damage and underdevelopment in the region. They formed the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and adopted a declaration which attributed "the political crisis in Nigeria" to "the struggle for the control of oil mineral resources," while asserting that "the degradation of the environment of Ijawland by transnational oil companies and the Nigerian State arise mainly because Ijaw people have been robbed of their natural rights to ownership and control of their land and resources." On that day, the assembly presented the Kaiama Declaration which also included a number of resolutions, of which the most
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
Sunday Magazine
becomes cause of war geria military, they are ready to hit the nation hard economically by shutting down 50 per cent of crude production. The more sophisticated NDA told the International Oil Companies after their early attacks: “This is just the beginning and you have not seen anything yet. We will make you suffer as you have made the people of Niger Delta to suffer over the years from environmental degradation and environment pollution.” Not done with their tough talk, they also had words for the president: “To the President of Nigeria, Buhari, we are sure you have not been to the creeks of the Niger Delta before and 90 per cent of your cabinet do not know how the region looks like.” Unlike the early phase of their ‘struggle’ which was mainly about improving the lives of the people, the NDA has stepped up the ante, pointing to what they see as the lopsided nature of the way the oil wells were allocated insisting that “all the oil wells awarded to Northerners and Westerners should be revisited.”
important were statements that all land and natural resources (including mineral resources) within the Ijaw territory "belong to Ijaw communities"; and that the IYC ceased to recognise all decrees "enacted without our participation and consent." In line with these statements, the youths also called for the military to withdraw from the region, and warned oil companies that they would be regarded as an "enemy" if they relied on military protection. This effectively was the beginning first of low level insurgency before it blossomed into full scale militancy with more bold and brazen attacks on oil installations in the Niger Delta region as they pressed home their demands for greater control of their resources. Consequent on the revving up of their attacks on vital installations and the inability of the military to put a lid on the activities of the militants, in 2009, late President Yar’Adua decided to open talks with them which resulted in the Amnesty Programme, which saw the militants laying down their arms in return for a monthly stipend from government. The Federal Government also offered to train the ex-fighters either in Nigeria or overseas in order for them to be better equipped to find gainful employment. However, despite this olive branch, many Niger Deltans still believe that their chal-
With almost no hospitals in the creeks and wooden dugout canoes being the common mode of transport, parents say sick children often cannot live long enough to reach where they can get treatment lenges are still staring them in the face as the people in the communities still defecate and drink from the same water, while they still lack electricity and affordable good life. Although the restiveness was largely contained while President Goodluck Jonathan was in power, the change of baton last year to President Mohammed Buhari has seen the area giving birth to the second phase of the agitation in the region with a more deadly militant group springing up in the name of Niger Delta Avengers (NDA). Though the group has said they are not out to take innocent lives or those of the Ni-
They then went on to publish details of these allocations: •Apo Well was awarded to Sapetro Oil, which is owned by Gen Theophilus Y Danjuma (rtd). Apo field is capable of producing 300,000 barrels per day and has crude reserves of 500 million barrels. •OML 110 Obe oil field, is own by Alhaji Mai Daribe, Cavendish Petroleum with an estimated 500 million barrels of crude oil that worth $50 billion after tax. •Akpo condensate field was awarded to Sapetro Oil owned by Gen Theophilus Y Danjuma. This field is worth $100 billion. •OML 112 and OML 117 were awarded to AMNI International Petroleum Development Company owned by Colonel Sanni Bello, a son-in-law to former Head of State. Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar. It is worth $150 million after tax. •OML 115, also known as Oldwok field and Ebok field, was awarded to Alhaji Mohammed Indimi, in-law to former Head of State Gen. Ibrahim Babangida the two fields are worth $200 billion. •OML 215 was awarded and operated by Nor East Petroleum Limited owned by one Alhali Saleh Mohammed Gambo. The field is worth $100 billion after tax. •OML 108 awarded to Express Petroleum Company owned by Alhaji Aminu Dantata. This field is worth $128 billion. •OML 113 was allocated to Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum Limited owned by Alhaji W. I. Folawiyo. Net worth is $150 billion. •Prince Nasiru Ado Bayero, cousin to the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanisu, owns ASUOKPU/UMUTU marginal oil fields. It is worth $110 billion. •Inter is owned by Atiku Abubakar. Yar’Adua and Ado Bayero also have a substantial stakes in the oil and gas exploration in the Niger Delta of Nigeria. •AMNI International Petroleum Company owns OML 112 and OML 117. Former Minister of Petroleum and OPEC Chairman Rilwan Lukman has major stakes in AMNI International Petroleum Company. •OML 67 is operated by Afren Plc, in which Rilwan Lukman also has a major stake. The field is worth $180 billion. •OPL 245 was awarded to Malabu Oil and Gas owned by Dan Etete. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abukbakar both have major shares in the company. The block is worth $50 billion. •OPL 289 and OPL 233 were awarded to Cleanwater Consortium; the two fields are worth $200 billion. Former Governor Peter Odili of River State, Chief Obasanjo and Sultan of Sokoto have major stakes.
•OPL 288 was awarded to focus Energy and Senator Andy Uba, Chief Obasanjo and Gen Theophilus Y Danjuma are the major stakeholders. The field worth $70 billion •1OPL 291 was awarded to Starcrest Energy Nigeria Limited owned by Emeka Offor. The field is worth $100 billion. •Chief Mike Adenuga’s Conoil controls and operates six oil blocs and exports about 500,000 barrels of crude oil daily. These oil blocs are worth $500 billion. “From our analysis above, 90 per cent oil blocs are allocated to individuals from northern Nigeria and some confused elements from the region are calling the Niger Delta Avengers names, some are calling us criminals.” Speaking further through the group’s spokesperson, Col Mudoch Agbinibo, the NDA warned: “Our goal is to cripple Nigeria’s economy.” True to its bizarre avowal, since February 14 when it declared what it called 'Operation Red Economy', the group has stepped up its attacks on oil facilities in the region, thus affecting production for export. As at now, Chevron’s operation in the Niger Delta is nil. Recently Finance Minister, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, confirmed that Nigeria’s oil production had dropped to 1.65m barrels a day, the lowest production in 22 years because of the resurgence of militant activities. Her words: “The renewed activities of the militants in the Niger Delta are seriously affecting oil production; in fact, it is now down to 1.65 million barrel per day (mb/d.)”. The Federal Government had predicated its 2016 Budget on 2.2 m b/d, but the obtainable output is thousands of barrels below that – around 1.7 to 1.8m b/d for the past few months. Production actually started the downward thread in February when the Avengers blew up an underwater pipeline, which forced Royal Dutch Shell to shut down its Forcados Export Terminal, and cut production by at least 250,000 bpd. Shell declared force majeure on exports of Bonny Light crude after a drip on one of its trunk lines in the Delta while. Days later, Chevron shut its Valve Platform following an attack by the Niger Delta Avengers. Undoubtedly, the militant group has seriously hit the nation’s oil production with Chevron being the worse affected. The Avengers know what they want and seem to have been operating so far with clinical precision. “We’re equipped to cripple Nigeria’ Three months ago when it launched its attacks, the spokesperson declared: “We are the Niger Delta Avengers; a group of educated and well-travelled individuals that are poised to take the Niger Delta struggle to new heights that has never been seen in this nation before.” “We have well-equipped human resources to meet this goal.” He said the group has support from other parts of Nigeria. On Thursday May 12, the Avengers warned that: “By October 2016, we will display our currency, flag, passport, our ruling council and our territory to the world.” But while the devastating effects of the attacks by the Niger Delta Avengers cannot be contested, its claim to be patriotic Niger-Deltans agitating for the interest of the people is what has set it on collision course with many well-meaning people in the region because their actions are only further contributing to the degradation of the area – which they claim to be up in arms over!
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Cephas Iorhemen
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MAKURDI
he Benue State Executive Council was yesterday, thrown into confusion over the arrest of the Governor Samuel Ortom’s Special Adviser on Special Duties, Architect Joe Ikyaagba by the police over his alleged involvement in the gruesome assassination of the governor’s Senior Special Adviser on Security Matters, Mr. Denen Igbana, a retired police inspector. Architect Ikyaagba, reportedly picked alongside one Saaondo, aka, “General” and six others and are now cooling their heels in police cells in Makurdi, the state capital. Ikyaagba, according to a government source, was said to have concluded ar-
SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
Ortom’s aide, 7 others arrested over murder of security adviser rangements to travel overseas to represent the governor before he was arrested. Late Inspector Igbana was shot dead three weeks ago by the assailants, who trailed him to his residence in Tionsha village, a suburb community of Makurdi metropolis. A traditional ruler in Tionsha village, who doubles as the tax collector, Chief Thomas Ijir Ayakpan, had told journalists, during the governor’s condolence visit to the deceased family that the late governor’s aide had allegedly spotted one Terwase Akwaza popularly known as ‘Gana’ among
Troops kill Boko Haram leader, 18 others Ahmed Miringa MAIDUGURI
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he Nigerian Army has killed 19 Boko Haram insurgents, including its leader Abubakar Gana, while clearing Chukungudu terrorists camp and other Boko Haram hideouts in Borno State. The Army, in a statement signed by its Acting Director Public Relations, Col. Sani Kukasheka, said the operation, which was carried out on Friday, was undertaker by, following credible information on the presence of Boko Haram terrorists at their camp, troops of 22 Brigade Garrison, and 153 Task Force Battalion of 7 Division and 8 Task Force Division as well as Nigeria Air Force Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) and
some Civilian JTF members. According to the statement, during the encounter at the camp, the troops killed 19 Boko Haram terrorists, including their notorious leader in the area called Ameer Abubakar Gana. They also discovered and destroyed the terrorists Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) making factory, discovered and successfully detonated four primed IEDs. The troops also recovered two Anti-Aircraft Guns, 1 AK-47 Rifle, a Pistol, 1 Rocket Propelled Gun (RPG) Bomb, 1 AK-47 Magazine, 267 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) metal links ammunition and 23 rounds of 12.7mm belt ammunition. Other recovered items include a Canter truck, 1 Gun truck, 1 Land Rover vehicle and a Toyota Hilux vehicle.
Activists, family remember Kudirat Abiola 20 years after Temitope Ogunbanke
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he Leader of National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu; President of Women Arise for Change Initiative, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin; members of civil society organisations and family of late Kudirat Abiola, have urged public officeholders and Nigerians to uphold the principles of democracy to ensure that the late Abiola didn’t die in vain. Speaking yesterday, during the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Kudirat Abiola, organised at her graveyard by Women Arise for Change Initiative in conjunction with KIND, Kanu, Okei-Odumakin and others they described
the deceased as a courageous and mother of the struggle for democracy, who laid down her life for enthronement of democracy in Nigeria. It would be recalled that late Kudirat Abiola, the wife of the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola was gruesomely murdered 20 years ago, June 4, 1996 in Lagos by gunmen. Okei-Odumakin in her address demanded an end to the wanton killings of innocent people in memory of Kudirat Abiola. “Twenty years after her assassination, human life has become so short, nasty and brutish in the hands of the state, given the various deaths we have recorded in recent times.
l Tsav: Governor has soft spot for bad people l Ortom: I won’t shield anyone the assassins, who accosted and shot him. According to the chief, he was shouting ‘Gana has killed me,’ ‘Gana has killed me.’ Gana is one of the notorious gangsters, who used to terrorise the people of Benue North East Senatorial Districts, but recently submitted over one hundred weapons alongside his men to the amnesty programme initiated by the Governor Ortom administration. But yesterday, Ikyaagba, who worked closely with Mr. Igbana on the amnesty programme, was arrested over his alleged accomplice in the killing of his colleague and is undergoing serious interrogation by top police chiefs in the state. It was learnt that both Ar-
chitect Ikyaagba and Akwaza used to have running battles against late Igbana over supremacy tussle on issues on the amnesty programme, as the governor was said to have a lot of confidence in his late aide, whom he (Ortom) said was not only instrumental to the success of the programme, but to his emergence as governor. But Ortom, while reacting to the arrest of his aide, restated his resolve not to shield anyone linked with the killing no matter how highly placed. Benue State Police Command, while confirming the incidence through the PPRO, Moses Yamu said, eight persons including Arch. Ikyaagba have been
arrested on connection with the murder with a promise to make public names of the assassins as investigation was still in progress. Former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, who also reacted to the alleged complicity of Ikyaagba in the murder of the governor’s security aide, said it was now clear that the governor has a soft spot for people with slippery or questionable characters. Alhaji Tsav, a Commissioner at the Public Complaints Commission, said he has received series of information bothering on criminality and intelligence some of which Architect Ikyaagba was allegedly involved, including the recent
arrest of Saaondo, one of the beneficiaries of Ortom’s amnesty programme, whom he said was arrested for causing hurt and unlawful possession of firearms and remanded in prison custody. According to Tsav, it was the same Arch. Ikyaagba, who hails from the same local government (Vandeikya) with Tsav, that arranged for the bail of the criminal, adding that he had notified the police but no action was taken. He urged the governor to review the appointment of his aides as there might still be many with questionable characters among them. Late Igbana was buried yesterday in his country home near Ihugh in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue state.
L-R; Sister to late Kudirat Abiola, Mrs. Modupe Akin-Ajayi; Late Kudirat ‘s son, Mr. Jamiu Abiola; Abdul Abiola; President, Woman Arise Nigeria, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, NADECO Chieftain Rear Admiral Ndubisi Kalu; National General Secretary, Campaign for Democracy, Prince Goodluck Obi and others, at the 20th Anniversary and laying of wreath in honor of the late Kudirat in Lagos…at the weekend. PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE
NEWS IN BRIEF
Enugu: Ugwuanyi urges Police to contain crimes
Armed gang terrorises Ajali community in Anambra
Buhari is as fit as a fiddle –Presidency
The Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has urged the Nigerian Police Force in the state to rise up to the occasion of containing pockets of crimes in the state with a view to retaining the state’s enviable position as one of the safest states in the country. The Governor, who made this call during an interactive session with top police officers from State Police Command led by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, over the weekend, commended the Police for feats they have achieved in handling of security matters in the state. The interactive session held at the Superior Officers’ Mess of the State Police Command on Agbani metropolis and was attended by assistant commissioners, heading various sections at the Police Headquarters; the three Police Area Commanders from the three Senatorial Districts in the state, and all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) from across the state among others.
The people of Ajali Community in Orumba North Local Government Area, Anambra State are now sleeping with their eyes open, following the alleged frequent attacks by hoodlums operating at odd hours of the night, while the police in the area are accused of aiding and abetting the hoodlums. Sunday Telegraph learnt that prominent men from Ajali Community have chosen to remain outside their fatherland in fear of been kidnapped or robbed by the daredevil youths, who are head-bent in reaping where they never sow. Narrating his ordeals in the hands of the hoodlums, a community leader, Comrade Victor Kanu, a native of Obinimkpa Village, Ajali, who resides now in Osun State said he has stopped visiting home, saying each time he visited home, he lost huge amount of the money to the men of the underworld operating within the town. “In many occasions, they had threatened kidnapping me. They robbed me over N2milion few days now. We are helpless because when we report such matter to the Police Divisional Headquarters, which is very close to my house, any police assigned to investigate such mater ends up eating and dinning with the suspects,” he regretted.
The presidency has dismissed rumour that President Muhammadu Buhari may have fallen ill at the presidential villa and he is on the verge of being flown abroad for treatment. Reacting to reports on the President’s health yesterday, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina said the whole country saw Buhari when he received some dignitaries at the presidential villa during the week. He said “Didn’t you see pictures of him receiving Anglican bishops yesterday (Friday)? Did he look sick? The President is as fit as a fiddle. Anyone who says he is sick is telling lies,” The presidential spokesman continued that “that is a figment of the person’s imagination. Just yesterday he received the primate of the Anglican Communion and arch bishops at the presidential villa. Adesina explained further that “he also received former President Olusegun Obasanjo (pictured). He is hale and hearty. The imagination of whoever says that is on overdrive.”
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
Buhari recovers N1.9trn from treasury looters
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Biyi Adegoroye
he Federal Government on Saturday said it has recovered, a total of N1.9trn from various politically exposed persons as at May 29 this year in its current loot recovery efforts. The government added that funds awaiting return from foreign Jurisdictions total $321,316,726.1; £6,900,000 and €11,826.11. The assets and cash seized under interim forfeiture totalled: $9bn, N126bn, £2.4m and €303,399. A conversion of the worth of assets and cash seized based on the official CBN exchange rate totalled: 1,918,113,864,063. A statement issued in Lagos by the Minister of
Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, also disclosed that Recoveries under Interim Forfeiture (cash and assets) during the period totaled N126, 563, 481, 095. 43; $9,090,243,920.15; £2,484,447.55 and €303,399.17. The statement, according to the Minister, which is based on the interim report on the financial and assets recoveries made by the various government agencies from May 29, 2015 to May 25, 2016, the Funds Awaiting Return from Foreign Jurisdictions total $321,316,726.1; £6,900,000 and €11,826.11. The statement, which failed to name the looters, stated that Non-Cash Recoveries (Farmlands, plots of land, uncompleted buildings, completed buildings, vehicles and maritime ves-
sels) during the period total 239. Meanwhile, since assumption of office in May 29, 2015, aPresident Muhammadu Buhari’s administration has been committed to fighting corruption Nigeria. This resolve has led to a number of arrests and trials of some former public officeholders, who were alleged to have abused public funds. The suspects include highly placed politicians and civil servants arrested by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC). The former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) is facing trial over alleged $2.1bn funds said to have been disbursed for campaign purposes last year. Also, the former DAAR Communications chairman,
Dr. Raymond Dokpesi; ExSokoto governor, Attahiru Bafarawa and the former Bauchi governor, Bashir Yuguda were mentioned in the case. Also fingered in the alleged loot are some prominent personalities including Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains, former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh; Chief Bode George, who played down the allegation that he only, received $30,000, as well as former Rivers governor, Peter Odili. A number of former Generals have also been held by the anti-graft gencies. The investigations have also revealed the involvements of some financial institutions like the Fidelity Bank Plc, Access Bank and Sterling Bank .
5,500,000
Aspirant calls for regional integration
Naira
US Dollar
GB Pounds
Euro
1
EFCC Cash at hand
39,169,911,023.00
128,494,076.66
2,355
11,250
2
Royalty/tax/payment to FGN account in JP Morgan account New York
4,642,958,711.48
40,727,253.65
3
ONSA Funds Recovery Account in CBN
5,665,305,527.41
8,000,000.00
4
VAT recovered from companies by ONSA
529,588,293.47
5
EFCC Recovered Funds Account in CBN
19,267,730,359.36
6
ICPC Revenue Collection Recovery in CBN
869,957,444.89
7
Office of the Attorney General
5,500,000,000 47,707,000.5
9
ICPC Cash Asset Recovery
2,632,196,271.71
Total
78,325,354,631.82
Source Ministry of Information
1,943,000.5
185,119,584.61
Babatope Okeowo
3,506,000.46
3,508,355.46
Akure
11,250
Police promote 1,670 officers Emmanuel Onani, Musa Pam JOS
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he Police Service Commission (PSC), has approved the elevation of 1, 670 senior police officers to their next ranks. A statement by the PSC’s spokesman, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, showed that a Commissioner of Police (CP) was promoted to the rank of Assistant InspectorGeneral (AIG) of Police, 10 Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) to Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs), while 5 Chief Superintendent of Police (CSPs) were moved to the rank of ACP. Also promoted were six SPs to the rank of CSP, four DSPs to SP, and 1,540 Inspectors to the rank of ASP. The Commission also
announced the following appointments in acting capacities: Three DCPs, five ACPs, four CSPs three SPs, five DSPs, and 127 ASPs. “The Police Service Commission has approved the promotion of 1,670 Senior Police Officers to their next rank. The Commission also approved the promotionof 147 others to different ranks. “The Commission’s Approval was conveyed to the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase on Friday, June 3, 2016. “Chairman of the Commission, Sir Mike Okiro, a retired Inspector General of Police, wished the affected the best in their new ranks and urged them to reciprocate the Commission’s good gesture by rededicating themselves to the service of the nation. “He promised that the
T
455,253.80
Items
DSS Recoveries
Don’t attack soldiers, avoid kidnapping – Avengers tell militants he Niger Delta Avengers, a militant group that has claimed responsibility for several attacks on Nigeria’s oil infrastructure has urged other groups on Saturday not to attack soldiers or kidnap people. The militant group, which says it has not killed anyone in its attacks also urged a group that said it has anti-aircraft missiles not to target any aircraft. The recent spate of attacks in the Niger Delta, which is Nigeria’s oil producing hub, have driven the OPEC member’s crude output to a more than 20year low and prompted President Muhammadu Buhari to send troops to the region. The Delta is the source of most of the oil that provides 70 percent of national income. The Avengers group wants more of that wealth to be directed to the poor swampland region. But “the war is on oil installations,” it said in a statement which referred to “the daily emergence of new groups” and added: “Avengers will deal with any group that refuses and attacks military (person-
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News
Commission will continue to ensure that deserving policemen are promoted as and when due to serve as motivation for effective and efficient service. Meanwhile, two policemen were feared dead in the convoy of Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State on Friday afternoon when they were involved in a fatal accident at Mikang, in Mikang local government Area of the state. Governor Lalong had gone to the southern senatorial zone of the state to commission some of the projects executed by his government during his first year in office. An eye witness in the convoy revealed that the policemen were hanging on a Hilux van belonging to Operation Rainbow, (the state’s private security outfit), when the driver of the
van veered into a corner flinging the unsuspecting victims off the van. The victims were said to have landed on their heads resulting in fatal knock, and leading to the immediate death of one. The second one died before he could get medical attention. The rest of the convoy could not immediately be notified of the incident as a result of the speed of the convoy. Even the bus immediately behind the illfated police van were reported to have meandered their way and then sped off without stopping. Confirming the accident, the state Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), Deputy Superintendent Abuh Emmanuel however said he has not received details on the incident from the Mikang Divisional Police Officer (DPO).
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n All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Ondo State, Mr. Akinboye Oyewumi yesterday advocated integration among the six states in the South-West geo-political zones of the country. Oyewumi in a statement said it is high time Ondo state key into the national politics by voting APC governor in November 26 governorship election. He said opposition politics would not bring development to the state unlike other states being governed by the APC. He promised to continue in the strides of compatriots like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Pa Adekunle Ajasin and Chief Adebayo Adefarati if voted into office. Oyewumi pledged to extend the achievements of the APC at the national level and in other states in the Western part of Nigeria to the state, saying “integrating our state to the progressive develop-
nel).” The statement, entitled “Message to Our Brothers in the Struggle”, added: “The high command is calling on all groups in Rivers, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom to not indulge in any act of kidnapping and attacking of soldiers.” The Avengers have claimed responsibility for most of the latest attacks, most recently three on Friday, but the insurgency is splintered into factions, with each group listing their demands. It is not clear whether the Avengers wield influence over other groups, reports Reuters. They have said they aim to cut Nigeria’s oil production to zero. The oil minister said on Thursday that output was 1.6 million barrels per day (bpd), down from around two million bpd at the start of the year. Even if the most recent attacks, which included facilities belonging to Chevron under its Escravos grade, took out all exports of the oil linked to them, June production would remain near 1.2 million bpd.
ment in the South West region is a dream of these great men that is long overdue” According to him, the APC has become a symbol of change in governance and public service, an agenda that can be visibly seen in other states in the region. These, he said included viable economic development strategies and diversification. If given the mandate to rule the state, Oyewumi said he would govern through exemplary leadership across all organs, deliver good governance to the people and build a better society for all. He said; “The voice of the people will be heard irrespective of the social status, ethnic or gender inclination. We will commit to bring service to the people and bridge the gap between the government and the governed.” He further said that there would be sustainable and evolving urban and rural renewal through accelerated infrastructural development to develop the state into a highly diversified economic hub.
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SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
OPINION One year after: Beyond the blame game
Ayo Oyoze Baje
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nyone still blaming the former President Goodluck Jonathan-led administration for all our current socio-economic woes, one year after leaving office, must be wallowing in self-deceit or simply living in FOOL’S PARADISE. Government is a continuum. Furthermore, when a leader takes over an institution, be it public or private, he inherits both the assets and liabilities. As he builds on the assets, he seeks ways to mitigate the pains inflicted on the people by the liabilities. One sweet victory leads to a new set of challenges. It is never a stroll in the park, nor a picnic in paradise. The top of the ladder, as the wise ones say is not meant for dancing, or dithering to take decisive actions. Successful leaders find the reasons to succeed, not giving excuses for failure. It would therefore, do the spokespersons of our president a world of good to henceforth stop looking over their shoulder and laying all the blames of the obvious failure of the Buhari-led government to frontally tackle and reverse the country’s dwindling economic fortunes, on the previous administration. They should be reminded that Nigerians are not fools to be taken on a donkey ride. If memory serves, political campaigns, couched with sleazy slogans and litany of lies should have ended over a year ago. Now is the time for those who the electorate invested their trust and goodwill on to roll up their sleeves and get down to brass tasks. After all, what is leadership all about? It is about having the vision to identify the led majority’s most pressing challenges and mustering the capacity, the character,
the courage and the commitment to finding lasting solutions to them. It is about engendering team spirit; working with the best of hands and brain to deliver the so called ‘dividends of democracy’ to the good people of Nigeria. It is not about any individual, no matter how knowledgeable, to exhibit a philosopher-king mentality, pretending to know it all and foisting his views, sometimes puerile and out of sync with modern governance practices on his people. As the American entrepreneur, Sam Walton would say, ‘individuals don’t win, teams do’. Truth is, that this administration needs all the assistance it can get. One of such is an economic think-tank, made of top technocrats who could read the next direction the global productive pendulum would swing and internalize it to proffer solutions to existing challenges. Such a group would have informed the president on the need to focus more energy, time and resources on revamping the tottering economy, soon after he took over the reins of governance. But one year after, there is no crystal clear direction where the ship of the economy is heading to. Agreed, the drastic dip in the price of crude oil on the international market is a clear and present danger to the lifting our economy out of the woods. It demands creativity in governance, for our political helmsmen to think outside the box, including the diversification of the sources of revenue from the mono-product of oil. The other is to drastically reduce the bloated pay package of office holders and recurrent expenditure on running government. While the motive for the battle against the
monster of corruption is lofty, noble and patriotic, the method employed so far has been less than salutary. This has thrown up fundamental questions: Is it right for the EFCC, our anti-graft agency to arrest suspects before investigations, claiming that they are deemed guilty until they prove their innocence? Does that not violate their fundamental human rights? Or, for the drive to recoup campaign funds be targeted at members of the opposition party, the PDP while their counterparts in other political parties are treated as ‘saints’? Where then lies moral justice? Are such funds not from the same country-Nigeria? In fact, one is worried that the war on corruption is seen as that of one concerned individual, Mister President. It has not been imbibed as a national ethos- such that it is promoted and propagated as a way of life right from our homes, through our educational and religious institutions to our places of work. Besides, it would do Nigerians greater benefits if the proceeds of graft, as recovered are used to uplift their parlous Human Development Index (HDI). Discerning Nigerians would want the government to go beyond regaling us with the billions of naira or is it dollars recovered from thieves of state. We have heard similar stories in the past. But we are yet to see viable projects executed with the recovered Abacha loot, a decade or so after all the media blitz. Perhaps, such could be better deployed to improving on the epileptic power supply, creating jobs for our teeming youths, provide health and educational facilities to the most vulnerable members of the society, especially under-5 children, the aged, widows, orphans, the homeless, pregnant women and nursing mothers.
Also significant is the need for governments at all levels to begin identifying the root factors that fuel corruption and dealing with them decisively right at their base level. Is it mass poverty, lack of protection for the honest and hardworking civil servants, who leave service only to be denied their terminal benefits. Or is it simple greed? What about the insidious and persisting problem of the political class feeding fat on the national till, at the expense of the long-suffering masses? Nonetheless, even as we commend the current administration on the gains made so far in battling the Boko Haram insurgency, attempts at curtailing corruption in the public service and reforms in the judiciary, a lot of work lies ahead. Government’s lack lustre approach to bringing the rampaging, blood-thirsty Fulani herdsmen to their knees leaves much to be desired. A power generation of 1,400 MW for a population of some 170 million Nigerians is inexcusable. Youth employment rate of over 23.9 % is a time bomb! Great circumspection is required to resolving the resurgent, yet condemnable militancy in the Niger Delta region of the country. As one has suggested times without number, the best way out of our recurring, selfinflicted socio-political and economic challenges is the devolution of political power from the bloated federal centre to either the six geo-political zones or the states. If the president has not read the details of the 2014 Confab Report, now is the time to take a break from his globe-trotting engagements to do so, for the love of our dear country-Nigeria. Ayo Oyoze Baje wrote from Lagos
Buhari..... RORRA (Buhari.....Rock or Rookie Rocking Aso-Rock) Erinosho Rotimi
I
have been compelled to finally open up my thoughts and break my silence about this present administration. Just like yesterday, we have finally approached one year of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure and by now any discerning person can categorically understand what this administration stands for and its “modus operandi”. As I write, one major challenge I faced was coming up with a suitable title that can best express the “inner me”. And after much deliberation, I finally settled for this one (Buhari.....RORRA). RORRA is being used here first as a word (Yoruba word) and secondly as an acronym. As a Yoruba word, it simply means “take things easy” while as an acronym it means ‘Rock Or Rookie Rocking Aso-rock.’ Both means two different things but they are actually pointing to one direction. Does APC Truly Mean “All Promises Cancelled”? Going by the euphoria that greeted the ascension of this administration to power, one could only hope for the best. They actually promised to bring heaven to us and no Nigerian should be blamed for expecting such wonderful goodies because what they promised isn’t luxurious in real term but basic necessities of life. They are common things that count for nothing in other parts of the world, things Presidential candidates of most developed countries would NEVER include in their manifestos because they already exist. So when APC made those promises, ev-
eryone believed it was an achievable task going by the way they eloquently translated it. All these promises are the ladder upon which they climbed to power. Lets fast forward to a year after, it’s appalling to realize that none of their promises have been fulfilled. Rather they transfer all blames to Otuoke. Could we now say they’ve cancelled their promises? The well celebrated “Presidential body language” does not show they have any plan to fulfil any promise. Some argue that APC seemed to have fooled us, but in reality it’s difficult to blame anyone saying that because APC seem to have “suitable genuine reasons” for every blunder they have committed in the past one year. My appeal to APC is for them to fulfil their promises and to stop giving us wonderful excuses for incompetence, after all having one free meal per day for school pupils should not be too much, giving N5, 000 to the unemployed and vulnerable should not be an uphill task, creating three million jobs a year should be a very simple exercise and turning one dollar to one naira should be the easiest of all. Abeg APC make una act right jare... PMS now N145, like seriously? Now let’s put things in proper perspective, I am not against subsidy removal because I strongly believe the price of any commodity should be determined by forces of the market. However, there are exceptions to this rule, allow me to give you a deeper analysis to my view. Lots of people in support of subsidy removal have argued that the success of GSM sims which were sold at N30, 000 at a point in time, later became almost
free because many people were allowed to operate and the effect of competition among them is the reason why we can purchase a sim card for almost zero naira today. However, the mistake they are making is that as at that time only few Nigerians were able to afford it, I never had a sim until it was sold for N3,000. While I waited for the price of sim cards to fall to my pocket range, the price of pepper and tomatoes did not increase, transport fares did not shoot up and the price of Ijebu garri remained intact. This can not be said about PMS, a small hike in PMS price affects everything associated to our existence. How does a compassionate President expect his citizens to cope? Oil prices are fixed by OPEC and the selling price in each country depends on the rate of FOREX (dollar) to the country’s own local currency and in our case “naira” (This is so because oil marketers import with dollars). Since President Buhari came to power, his policies have made FOREX stringent, he is leaving us at the mercy of the same dollar rate his policies have made scarce and the exchange rate soar. He said he does not believe subsidy exists, he later claimed he is willing to pay the same subsidy he denied only for him to remove subsidy. Must he keep changing policies? Oh yes, that’s the slogan of his party “CHANGE”. The irony of it all Today I sound as a critic of Buhari, some may even say that I hate on him but the true position of things is that I admire him as a person but not as Mr. President. My admiration has to do with the fact that he is supposedly incorruptible. However, I don’t admire
him because it takes more than “integrity” to preside over a nation. Our economy needs policies that can drive it forward, we need good thinkers that can proffer solutions to our current plight. The masses should NEVER be the victims of policies formulation, rather we should be the beneficiaries. Mr. President you need to RORRA, I mean you need to take things easy. God has made you our President till at least 2019 that is a reality we your critics must accept and for this sole reason I personally want you to SUCCEED. I pray that God will grant you wisdom and tolerance, with sound health. He will give you a compassionate heart to realise that pure water is now N10 (100% increase), a tray of tomatoes is now N400 (700% increase), a bucket of garri is now N600 (100% increase), a bucket of rice is now N1200 (50% increase), the list goes on and on. Finally I will like to conclude by appealing to the youths especially those that supported Buhari. Please look beyond Jonathan versus Buhari, beyond PDP and APC and rather focus your attention on the Nigeria of our dreams. Believe me, we deserve a better deal, let’s shallow our pride and speak with one voice to condemn these unpopular policies. Let’s put some fire under Mr. President’s babariga, he needs to “change” this policy. Above all, I leave you to ponder if truly Buhari has been a Rock or a Rookie.#BuhariRockOrRookie God bless you, God bless Nigeria. Erinosho Rotimi is an economist, he wrote from Lagos.
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016
Sunday Mail
@
thesundayletters@gmail. com and sundayletters@ newtelegraphonline.com
MAIL BAG
* Letters to the Editor
The Sunday Telegraph
Increase your copies in Kwara State Dear Editor, Kindly increase copies of your daily and weekend copies to Kwara State, particularly to Ilorin. Many a times, vendors say it has not come, even by 12noon. I enjoy reading it because of near absence grammatical errors and precise reporting unlike other dailies. Thanks. Yomi Fadairo Ilorin
Corruption as a family inheritance Dear Editor, In Yorubaland, a common wish and pride of parents is that children should inherit the legacy of whatever is their occupation or trade and it was not uncommon to see them working assiduously to ensure that the template for its accomplishment was laid. This was the period in which hardwork, character, trust and honesty were key values of society and people tried to live up to those values which ensured societal peace and stability. However and unfortunately, times have changed to one in which we have, as a people, lost our moral values, the fabric of societal peace and morality and this is responsible for societal upheavals manifested in disorderliness, indiscipline and criminality ravaging our land today. In keeping with this societal wish and desire by parents for their children, a disturbing pattern has emerged from the immediate past, as we are daily inundated with how public officials have bestowed the legacy of corruption and abuse of public trust to their children in the various media celebrated crises. What a shame and this is a disturbing trend that stands condemned in its entirety. As for me and my house, just like I have inherited the qualities of honesty, integrity and hardwork from my parents, no matter the situation of the country, may the Almighty help me to bequeath such legacy to my children for the good of the society. What do you want to bequeath to your children? Nelson Ekujumi, Lagos.
How hygienic is this? PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI
Who really feels our pain? Dear Editor, The expression “I feel your pains” is a popular statement synonymous with sharing in the grief of another. It is sympathetic. One will definitely feel the pains of another, where there is a special relationship or close affinity. To share in the pain of a very distant person and where the pain sharer had no similar experience will be an irony. Even, where the pain sharer has had similar experience long ago, there is likelihood of time to have healed the pains. It takes personal reflection on “common humanity” to share in the pains of a very distant person with no close affinity. I recently pondered on this, our government officials have no restraint as to the use of this statement wherever there is hardship of any kind. Government officials are very quick in saying: “I feel your pains” To what extent? An official with a privileged background that has never experienced hunger in his life, saying he feels the pain of downtrodden people. Officials who usually enjoy constant electricity, even with the help of giant generators, will also say he felt the pains of aggrieved citizens who are protesting against poor electricity supply. How can the political elite who are chauffeur-driven feel the pains of commuters queuing in the scorching sun, waiting eagerly for commercial buses? I have not seen any of our political office holders queue at filling
stations in the hard time of fuel crises, their aides pay the price. How can our leaders who live in high brow estates with all infrastructural facilities as in developed society feel the pains of citizens living in slums and government abandoned areas? Let our leaders occasionally join the queue for public buses, stay in the slum for some days, let them queue personally at the filling stations to fuel their cars. They should do this diligently not for political propaganda. Then we can accept that they feel our pains. Tunji Ajibola, Lagos.
The gender and equal opportunities bill Dear Editor,
I recently read the gender and equal opportunities bill drawn out by the Nigerian Senate and I want to start by commending those who put it together. Nevertheless, I must in the same breath say that it has some loopholes, which calls for revising. With respect to parity in the enrollment of boys and girls, it should be specifically directed to co-educational schools, as we also have single sex schools. On the aspect of discrimination based on gender and disability, which I presume, is with respect to job placements, I do not think it will be feasible to employ a lame man or woman to run errands, just because I do not want to discriminate.
And again, the candid truth is that there are jobs better suited for men than women. A woman for example, might not produce excellent results in a cement factory, which involves carrying of heavy cement bags etc, compared to a man. My boss sometimes teases us women by saying that when he suggests for a volunteer to do a job, all the women start saying “I am a woman o, sir ask the men to do it”. Because whether we like it or not a man has a stronger build than a woman, even though we know both complement each other. Then with respect to widows having rights to a man’s property, I have always thought a man’s property belonged to the children, which the woman guards until they come of age. I think it will be unfair if the woman carts away half of the man’s property, which the children from her next marriage would benefit from, leaving the children from the first marriage to grapple with the remaining half. This surely will be a lack of Justice. Again, with all due respect I do not think I agree with the right of the woman to terminate a pregnancy in case of sexual assault of whatever kind. To advice a woman to carry out an abortion in the first place leaves the woman more traumatized than the earlier evil. There are so many women out there battling with post-abortion traumas, and serious psychological complications. I think what a victim of sexual assault needs is love, understanding, support and care from her family and she can give up the child for adoption
afterwards if she wants. We are talking about killing a human person, (an innocent child) who is a consequence of his/her father’s crime, but not its cause. We might as well kill the woman to save her from further sufferings. Abortion in whatever form it comes is inherently wrong except in cases of ectopic pregnancies, whereby the baby is already dead. I must say I agree with all the laws of violence against women. Many women have become toothless overnight or lost other body organs or even their lives thanks to irresponsible men who can’t face up to male colleagues at work, but come home to pour their frustrations on their wives. Omosefe Oseghale, Benin City.
Nkata-Umukabia road needs attention Dear Editor,
It is good that Abia State Governor Okezie lkpeazu is re-constructing old roads and new ones in Aba and its environs but let him also extend his good work to other zones in Abia State that have bad roads, like North Local Government. After all it is not only Aba that voted him into office. Governor lkpeazu should carry everybody along to move Abia State forward, irrespective of party differences since election is over and court cases settled. Gordon Chika Nnorom Umukabia, Abia State
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Niger Delta avengers and true identity Dear Editor, I was not comfortable with the demands by the militants group the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) for peace to reign in the Niger Delta region. The militants demanded among others: the take-off of the Maritime University with immediate effect and an apology from the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. What Amaechi is saying is that the Maritime Institute, Oron should be upgraded to university instead of starting a new tertiary institution offering the same maritime courses as that of Oron Maritime Institute, as the country is experiencing financial crunch. Is Oron not part of Niger Delta Region? The clean-up of Ogoni and other areas of Delta, release of Nnamdi Kanu, funding of amnesty scheme, review of oil blocks, trial of corrupt APC members, apologies from Buhari, DSS, Timipreye Sylva over Alamieyeseigha death and, of course, immediate implementation of the report of the 2014 National Conference are the others. Their demands lack merit and are not in consonance with the objective of true and good people of Niger Delta region. For example, what has the release of Nnamdi Kanu of IPOB got to do with the development of Niger Delta Region. The avengers are fabricating lies to cover up terrorism act. This group is also demanding the immediate implementation of the report of the 2014 National Confab failing which the country would break up. What the demand means is that without the implementation, the Niger Delta region will secede, probably team up with Biafra to secede. Why didn’t Jonathan who set up the Confab not implement it, several months after its submission. Why is Buhari being intimidated about its implementation? Until the Niger Delta avengers come out with their true agenda or identity, government should not listen to their demands. What we should ask for is what will alleviate the suffering of majority of the people of the Niger Delta. Johnson Ukueni, Lagos. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO BE HEARD! SEND YOUR LETTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHS TO THESUNDAYLETTERS@ GMAIL.COM. LETTERS SHOULD NOT BE MORE THAN 200 WORDS AND MUST HAVE THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE SENDER
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Execut ve Adesimbo Ukiri is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Avon Healthcare Limited (Avon HMO). As CEO, she oversees all aspects of the company’s operations and, under her guidance and vision, Avon HMO has become one of Nigeria’s leading healthcare maintenance organisations. A trained lawyer, Adesimbo holds an LLB from Obafemi Awolowo University and is a Sloan Fellow of London Business School, where she obtained an MSc in Management. In this interview with SADE MOMOH, she talks about her over 20 years of professional experience within a number of sectors including financial services, FMCG, telecommunications and healthcare Less than 10 percent of Nigerians have health insurance. What can we do to expand coverage? The lack of progress that we, as a country, have made in terms of universal health coverage is a source of great distress to people like me. We see the opportunities and know the achievements that are possible. Increasing coverage requires a collaborative effort, one that can and should be driven by leadership that comes from the top. The first and most important thing that is needed is a regulator that is able to implement the right operational framework, monitor the operators (HMOs) and ensure that the ‘ecosystem’ actually works. The next requirement is a legislation that makes it compulsory for every employer to provide health insurance for their workers. The current law is an Act: it states that a company with over 10 employees should make provision for health insurance. This is not enough as only mandatory participation will avoid the lukewarm uptake that was previously seen with pensions. Health insurance is just as important, if not more important, than pensions and we should be more decisive. With the right leadership from the Federal Government, the sky is the limit. Once the right regulatory environment is in place, we (Avon HMO) have the capacity to manage enrollees in the millions. Nothing stops us from doing so now for we have invested heavily in a strong information technology (IT) backbone. Most, if not all, of our operational process are technology-based. We are therefore able to achieve scalability while guaranteeing excellent, responsive customer service. You have spoken of the availability of robust health data as key to improving coverage. Tell us more. In Nigeria and across the continent, we are seeing an increase in chronic diseases and escalating healthcare costs. We therefore need to rethink how we deliver healthcare products and services that truly cater to the current and future health needs of our people. In most sectors, such decisions
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Robust data is essential for health insurance coverage and very early on develop a repertoire of behaviors to help you engage and build valuable relationships with all types of people. Adhere to this and not everyone will like you but most will admire you. How relevant is HMO to the present day Nigeria? HMOs and the services we provide are extremely relevant, probably now more than ever with Nigerians feeling the pinch. We all face the challenge of spreading our income across many daily, weekly and monthly expenses. Subscribing to a health plan and paying premium once a year, ensures that unexpected medical bills are covered especially because medical bills can become financially debilitating depending on the severity and complexity of the illness. Based on the current economic climate, I strongly believe that it is crucial that people subscribe to a health plan as soon as they can. This way, they will be rest assured that come what may, taking care of your health is not something that you need to worry about.
would be guided by rigorous data analyses and the insights gained from them. The health insurance and managed care sectors in Nigeria should not be different. Data is king. This is why we launched our Provider Incentive Programme in 2015 that encourages the accurate collation, availability and use of robust medical utilisation data by our Provider Hospitals. This data will identify and track disease prevalence and patterns, especially at primary care levels and inform our disease prevention and wellness initiatives. Ultimately, it will help improve better patient experience, minimise disease reoccurrence and reduce re-admission rates for the same diagnosis. In regards to improving universal health coverage, comprehensive medical data will guide our product development initiatives so that we are able to offer health plans that are more consumer-centric. Presently, many of the health plans, products and services available in the marketplace are essentially the same in all but name – platinum, gold, silver, bronze. Many people are unable to find health plans that are relevant to their different stages in life. Medical data provides us with the ability to understand the needs of the different segments of our society so that we can create health plans that are able to cover the benefits that people actually need. Considering that we (Nigerians) do not have data for several health indices, how feasible is this? I don’t think it is a question of the absence of data, more that it has not been mined and analysed. For example, the NHIS will certainly hold data for all the people enrolled onto a Federal health insurance
scheme. Let us not forget that the NHIS has been in existence for over 10 years and has the largest number of enrollees in the country. They cover Federal Civil Servants which make up 6 million of the 7 – 7.5 million (roughly 90 per cent) of all enrollees covered by a health plan in Nigeria. We therefore expect that their utilization data also sits with the NHIS. The questions should be - how robust and granular is this data? How accessible is it? How can it be used to grow and strengthen the industry? And finally, how can we use it to develop health plans that are appropriately priced and meet the needs of different customer segments. We cannot adopt a one size fits all approach. Being the CEO in such a competitive field must be challenging. What inspires you? I am inspired by people who dare! Dare to be different ...dare to pursue their dreams.... dare to take the road less travelled. People who are able to inspire and secure the long term engagement and followership of other people and together with them, achieve phenomenal and trans-formative changes to the world and the way we live. I am inspired by people who come back from seemingly crushing public defeats only to achieve higher levels of greatness. It’s no wonder that I’m inspired by the late Steve Jobs and Tony O. Elumelu (CON). You have over 20 years of professional experience under your belt. What have you learnt in this time? One of the key lessons I’ve learnt is, don’t be hard on yourself, spend more time focused on your goals and getting there and less on regrets on what you have been unable to achieve. Also, practice mindful perceptiveness;
How far have you gone in terms of public awareness/ enlightenment? Our mission is to empower people to live healthier, fuller lives. For us, empowerment is through education, knowledge and giving people access to the tools they need to make more informed health decisions. Therefore we never pass up the opportunity to educate people; be it on the importance of subscribing to a health plan or raising awareness of the chronic illnesses that affect so many Nigerians. With teledensity at over 100%, we recognise that the easiest way to engage and inform people is through their mobile phone. We regularly send out health awareness messages via SMS, emails and our social media platforms. We have a very active social media as we have built a strong health and wellness community. In addition, we also work with our corporate members to implement internal health awareness campaigns and health screening initiatives to drive education. We also regularly share health information and hold educational sessions with our members. What are the benefits and can this be accessible in the rural and remote areas? Everyone should have access to good quality health care and it is with this in mind that we designed our health plans. Our health plans cover everything from primary care to tertiary care and includes the treatment of our most common ailments, maternity, optical and dental care and major surgeries. Health care is personal so we have taken particular care to ensure that no matter your age, stage in life, income bracket or health risk, we have a plan for you. It is also very important that healthcare is accessible. This is why we have a robust Hospital Provider Network that has a healthcare facility in every major city and town across the country. We don’t have the biggest Provider Network but we are confident that all our hospitals provide our members with high quality service and value. What is your mode of relaxation? I spend the day unwinding with a good book. What is that one thing you cannot do without? My phone!
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Elegant corporate drapes
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In time of food crisis, we just have to adjust. There are other substitutes that are cheaper and nutritious. Banga stew with ‘Nchanwu’ (scent) leaf is a very nutritious meal because ‘Nchanwu’ has a lot of phyto chemicals
In the work place, it’s important to put together combination of outfits that will tell the message of the kind of personality you wish to project
Essential oils are very useful to those in pursuit of beauty, calm mind, joint aches, digestive health and great smells
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GLAM DUDES Sunglasses are no longer just a means of protecting our eyes from UV rays, but an indispensable accessory for the man of all seasons
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E l ega n
MY PASSION I listened to a lot of old music because my parents were kind of old and I have older ones back home. I love King Sunny Ade, Onyeka Onwenu, country music and others great songs
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BED, WORK & LIFE “So, Patra knew all these while that I was spurting impotent fluid? So she had been sleeping with strange men in order to get pregnant? Why didn’t she tell me so that together, we would seek for solution? No wonder she was so calm on Valentine’s Day when she discovered I had a family outside our home
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edia and still ers on social m e army will ad le ur yo of at th ed the 17th an without fear th u away to une just celebrat r nascent de- go to sleep yo rt ca home or niversary of ou t of Nigerians invade your ation for punishment. in lo st a t de as a bu n , cy ow ra kn moc brate. see corruption t is in it to cele go, we no longer It’s as though the ha lso w A g rin de on try is are w ade. for coriseries the coun celess masquer In the face of m cent times, it’s difficult fa ing taps that gushed dollars g since re ak in le w in h flo d ug its pe ro cy op th ocra ing ve st celebrate a dem ckets of rupt politicians ha me to power. Several for citizens to e po ri ca th ha in Bu t as ed en nd id la es Pr uchables, such dividends only ere unscrupulous. , previous unto politicians and en m w g bi ho w ns od p ia , to of go politic er service chiefs ng the mandate in jail Instead of fulfilli they were elected into form rnment officials, are sitting bail ch on ve hi t w go ou of or ce in s, an ft al rn le n tri nds gove aiting corruptio oned public fu ch large office, they syph ng the nation into debt aw this has never happened in su try. gi d un an un co pl ; is st th at sc of tru r y es thei stor ctur lapidating stru me, there numbers in the hi om to grow. Nigerians and leaving di still ro ll the sa is A e n. er rnth tio t, na Ye e th ness. r the federal gove tered all over the seeming dark l the cannot afford to wait fo nd. All hands must in ht lig of s er ing al are flick ip arou woes and sight ent to turn the sh legacy of Instead of crying gs that are not working m deck to ensure that we leave a ildren on ch e be th r fo e t se en negative thin m to t’s begin y in govern in the nation, le gs democracy accountabilit begins with you! Profestomorrow. It the good thin d Soul, we have r country. of brought into ou are no day on Body an President of NutriTo zi Nnam, the At least we ver. the sor Ngo gracing our co longer under le tion Society of Nigeria mar r he on up ru ed dy open m il it ar y The cerebral la ip positions she where freedom riage and various leadersh singer opens y on ltr si su es e a, th of expr occupies. Niyol Bank W. You was taboo. up on her relationship with ge. N ow, yo u can read that on our Passion pa corporate ges showcase are free to air Our fashion pa e your day. Other fashs ew vi ur ak yo m ty styles that will Dude and Beau on bad govs such as Glam this special day ge pa n io d ernance an ckaged on Zone are all pa even free u. yo l m ak e to thril you a fabulous to I wish and es em m essa eek ahead. w s re Van ca ri ca tu
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T h e Te a m Vanessa Okwara (Editor) Wole Adepoju (Snr. Correspondent) Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) Abiola Alaba Peters Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) Isma’il Akintunde (Graphics) +234 (0) 818 0515840, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com, julietbumah@gmail.com
Associates
Helen Paul
Eyitayo Aloh
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Mo’Cheddah Chic Punk
Biwom Iklaki
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his rapper, singer, song writer and fashion designer was born Modupe-Oreoluwa Oyeyemi Ola in the early 90s. Best known by her stage name, Mo’Cheddah, she first came into the public consciousness in 2009 with her single, “If You Want Me” and shot into the limelight in 2010 with the release of her debut album, “Franchise Celebrity”. Though an indigene of Osun state, she was “bread and buttered” in Lagos state. The creative juices in her are almost limitless and with a degree in Creative Arts, she started off by a foray into acting and then transitioned into a singer. To put force and more influence into her music career, she started her own music label called, Mocheddah Music. She has many awards under her belt including Best New Artist from MTV Africa Music Awards, 2010 and Best Female Video in the Channel O Music Awards in the same year, for her song “If You Want Me”. She was also nominated in the Headies Award for Hip Hop World Revelation of the Year and another nomination at the ELOY Awards for Best Music Artist. She is currently working on an album due this year. Her style is often stellar; maybe because she is a designer herself, she wows us all the time. She keeps us wanting more and she has demonstrated an apt ability to dress up her stature to also flatter her complexion. She never disappoints and gives us a lesson or two on the red carpet.
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Vanessa Okwara
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s the weekend ends and the work week approaches, what to wear to work becomes a test of patience and you end up asking: what will I wear to work this week? In the work place, it’s important to put together combination of outfits that will tell the message of the kind of personality you wish to project. Have you noticed that when you look good, people tend to take you more seriously? That is why it is important to carefully choose what to wear to work so as to be addressed the way you dressed.
Sometimes it’s hard to balance your stylish and professional sides when it comes to dressing up for work. Some ladies do not actually know when to leave the dinner dress out of the office; they end up coming to work looking either overdressed or even underdressed depending on the style of the dinner dress in question. Dresses are universal pieces that suit all ladies. No matter your body size or your body structure, you’ll definitely get one that suits you and your corporate environment perfectly. Also, they never go out of vogue or stop being trendy.
For the sake of decency, steer clear of over hugging dresses. Tight dresses can be wo to work; just don’t make them overly tig especially on the breast or bottoms. A go alternative for tight gowns are the flared on flared gowns are hot right now and can tota be worn to work. Balance those tight skirts with tops that cov up a little, invest in a blazer if you may. Th can transform your casual dresses to ones th can be worn to work. The usefulness of blazers cannot be overem phasized. They can transform a casual out into a formal one. They can give you the pr
Editor’s current obsession
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Wine & Dine
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Nuvo: Delightful feminine choice Ibukunoluwa Kayode
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or the female consumer yearn ing for a new liqueur made to make her experience a level of refinement, luxury and sophis tication like never before, Nuvo sparkling liqueur is one to note. It possesses the beauty and elegance associated with champagne but at the same time has the purity of the feminine colour, pink. Nuvo liqueur is a lifestyle choice for trendy individuals. It is more than the average spirit we see around and the ultimate wine for any get-together. This wine is grown and made in Paris, France with a unique com bination of premium Vodka and a touch of delicate sparkling white
wine infused with passion fruit nectar. It leaves a refreshing, smooth lin gering taste on the palate as it feels light and airy. It’s not as carbonated as soda or bubbly champagne but just enough to dazzle ones taste buds and bring delight to the palate. Nuvo sparkling comes in a gor geous, perfume-like bottle that adds flare and décor to any event. it’s served in different three different sizes- 200ml, 375ml and 750ml, ready for pick at any wine store or super market. It holds 15per cent ABV. Ladies, to enjoy this smooth pal ate friendly Nuvo, serve it chilled to capture the essence of its special experience or use it to mix a variety of delicious cocktails. It’s perfectly paired with cuisines like macaroni, sweet potato and pepper omelette.
I ndigenous tasty Okpa Biwom Iklaki
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ot sure there are Nigerians who do not know what okpa is. So, in a way, you could say that okpa is a meal that is more popular in the Eastern parts of Nigeria, but you can find some vendors of this loaf in other parts of the country. Made from the Bambara nut which is a very healthy source of protein that comes with a very strong nutty flavor, the biggest appeal of the Bambara nut is its versatility. You could boil it for a pottage as you would do the black eyed pea, roast or fry like groundnuts or mill it and make the okpa loaf. If you wonder why it is
called a loaf, when you eat okpa, it is so filling and causes you to drink even more water throughout the day keeping you full for longer. It is also a perfect ad dition to your weightloss menu for this same reason. Pair it with some mini mally flavoured (little sugar or honey and skimmed milk) custard or oatmeal. Here is the process Ingredients 10 cups of okpa beans 4 cups of palm oil
2 cups ground crayfish or dried prawns Onions Pepper Salt and stock cubes to taste Preparation Sieve into a large bowl your ground okpa beans as you would flour. Mix the okpa with some water until you get a think consistency or paste much like your moi moi paste. Add ground pep per, crayfish, salt, stock cube and palm
oil, and then mix thoroughly. If you do not like a hard and heavy loaf, add more water so that the more runny your paste, the softer your okpa will be when cooked. When the mixture is too thick, it produces a very strong okpa. So, careful ly add water and mix till everything is well incorporated. Okpa can be wrapped in plantain leaves, moi moi leaves, water proof packs (I wouldn’t recommend this though), foil and in tin plates. You could garnish with boiled eggs, dry or smoked fish or boiled titus. Cooking time should be at least 40-60 minutes. Enjoy hot and sip some tea to celebrate the democracy day
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I went to school when my –Prof. Ngozi Nnam Prof. Ngozi Nnam is the current President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria; Chairman, Civil Society for Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria, and Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She consults for many agencies both locally and internationally on proper nutrition for women and children and serves on the board of international committees for promotion of nutritional sciences. Prof. Nnam is passionate about having proper nutritional habits inculcated in the menus of Nigerian families. She speaks to VANESSA OKWARA about her childhood, marriage and the challenges of leading various organisations Brief educational background I’m a professor of Community and Public Health Nutrition, affiliated to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; the current President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria and also the Chairman Civil Society, Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria. In University of Nigeria Nsukka, I’m the current Dean, Faculty of Agriculture. My area of interest is in nutrition in infants, children and women. My first degree is in Food and Home Sciences; I have a master’s degree in human nutrition. I have a PHD in Malnutrition, a background in education; a Post Graduate Diploma in Education as well as master’s degree in education, specialising in Guidance and Counseling. When did you get your professorship? I got my professorship in the year 2005. What motivated you to study nutrition? My area of interest is children. What motivated me mostly is that when I go round communities, I see malnourished and unhealthy children. When you look at their faces, it’s like they rubbed a lot of Vaseline. That is a sign of malnutrition. That is what motivated me to study nutrition, to see if I could lend a hand in addressing this malnutrition issue particularly among children who are the greater tomorrow. With the looming food crisis in the country, how should families cope with the economic hardship and still have balanced nutrition? Families need to find a way to adjust. Like this issue of tomatoes, there are substitutes like vegetables. In Nuskka, you can get a big bunch of green leaves for N70. It’s not a must that you cook your rice with tomatoes. You can also use melon to do an interesting soup for your rice and you can also use palm fruits in making Banga stew. So in time of food crisis, we just have to adjust. There are other substitutes that are cheaper and nutritious. I know Banga stew with ‘Nchanwu’ (scent) leaf is a very nutritious meal because ‘Nchanwu’ has a lot of phyto chemicals. Phyto chemicals are things that help the body to function very well. If we can really go back to them, it will help families a lot in nutrition. When the situation is like this, it is important to prioritise because food is the basic foundation. You can prioritise and get the essentials to ensure that the family is not malnourished. No matter how meager the income is, most of it should be put into feeding the family well with nutritious food. The malnutrition problem is not because there is no food, but mainly because people don’t know what to eat. That is the major problem because the market woman will sell off all her vegetables in the market and use the money to buy expensive food items in the market that is more of junk. There are a lot of interesting nutrients in green vegetables that can really make the family grow well and nourished. So we need to educate the populace on how to eat nutritious foods that are cheap as well as nutritious. What constitutes a balanced meal? One of the basic things in achieving adequate diet is to have variety. A lot of families eat food with no variety. Some eat different types of carbohydrates all through the day without balancing it out with other food groups. The primary thing that will make families to have a balanced meal is for them to diversify what they are eating. They should have varieties in a single meal. For example, it is not a good eating habit for you to just eat yam and oil like they do in villages. But when you cook that yam, prepare some vegetables which is easily available. You can also add oil bean ‘ukpaka’, onions or fish if you are cooking it as porridge yam. That way, you have introduced variety into the meal. That way you have a better opportunity of meeting the nutrient requirement your family needs. The rule of thumb for planning adequate balanced meal is to use the food guide pyramid. It is nothing other than a pyramid trying to group food into their different classes. We have the staple starchy group, tubers and cereals like rice, yam, cassava -maize sorghum are the cereals. They are at the base of the
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mates were getting married pyramid. Immediately after the tubers, you have the fruits and vegetables. Then after fruits and vegetables, you have all the foods that are rich in proteins like the beans family, milk and dairy products. After the protein, you have the oil and fatty food group. The beauty of the food pyramid is that it shows the quantity of each food. Like when we say you should have a variety of food in a single meal, quantity is also important. You have more of the tubers and staple food because the provision of that pyramid shows the proportion of that food to others. That is one guide to ensuring adequate diet for families. So most families can survive on this guide and most of the food is relatively cheap. You can diversify and include as many food items as possible in a single meal. The guide is that you pick at least one from each group and not having all the food from the same group. As the president of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, what contribution is the society making towards getting Nigerians to understand the importance of proper nutrition? We intermittently run workshops and do seminars. We also have our annual conferences. The major problem in Nigeria on nutrition is awareness. So we do that in our conferences and seminars. We partner with other agencies to provide this awareness, to educate the populace on what they are supposed to eat. Nutrition Society of Nigeria is really working hard and even as the Chairman of Civil Society of Scaling-Up Nutrition, we have projects in up to 11 states in the country. Our primary objective is to create this awareness -more of advocacy on nutrition, what they are to eat and how they are to eat it. We have town hall meetings where we meet with communities and create awareness about nutrition, how to achieve adequate diet particularly for women and children. How did you become the president of Nutrition Society of Nigeria? It was by election. Actually, I’ve served as a council member of Nutrition Society of Nigeria for up to 12 years before becoming president. It’s an elective post where you contest for it and are elected into office. I started my presidency in May 2012. I have completed my first term of two years, from 2012-2014. I’m serving the second term now, 2014-2016. I will complete my term in September for this year when we will have our annual general meeting. What has been your experience championing this society? There are a lot of challenges. I just need to plan myself to cope with the demands. Nutrition is important everywhere. As the president of the association, you are expected to provide leadership, be part of the planning and implementation of projects. I also have my fulltime job as a professor of public health and nutrition. However, I still make out time, and I plan myself. I still have time to run my responsibilities at home. As a mother, how do you juggle the leadership positions you occupy at different places and still come home to perform your duties? You know, sometimes, I wish the day will be 30 hours but I can’t change the hand of the clock. All I need is effective planning. I try to reflect all the activities in my work plan, so that none of them is marginalised, particularly my family. If you are not very careful, you will find that you are using all your time for your leadership positions. But I plan it so that I can still have time for my responsibilities at home. I think I’m the one that is really suffering because I encroach into my time for sleep so I can be sure I clear the home front very well before leaving for work and going to bed. Managing different leadership positions requires a lot of determination. You are married...with children? Yes, God has blessed me with children and grandchildren. How is your husband coping with your busy schedule? He has been very supportive of my work, leadership positions and career. How did you meet your husband? Well, we met like other couples and started talking about
marriage and God made it possible. What made him different from other men that must have asked for your hand in marriage? I believe that it is God that brings two people together in marriage as husband and wife. He has been a supportive person that is why I am able to do all the things I’m doing right now. What was your childhood like? I grew up from a very humble background. We really had to struggle to make ends meet. One thing I know I owe my parents a lot for is that despite the fact that things were very hard, they still made it possible for me to go to school and get the best education. When we were growing up, it was an era in the seventies, training girls was not popular. The popular thing during that time was to train the boys while the girls would get married. But my parents went out of their way to make the necessary sacrifices and gave me an opportunity to go to secondary school. I started my secondary school in 1970, immediately after the war. Most of the ladies in my secondary school got married right after their secondary school certificate examination, except me. My parents trained me to attain a quality university education before I got married. It was not easy anyway but one thing my parents taught me is hardwork. You can only make success through hardwork. That was what sustained me all through my growing up years. I knew that you cannot make it if you don’t work hard. So I got that habit from my early years as a child. Like you asked me how I’m coping with all these responsibilities, it is because I have inculcated the habit of working hard. How long have you been married? I got married in 1980. So I have been married for 37 years now. How does it feel to be a grandmother? I feel so excited and happy. You just feel so excited seeing your grandchildren. It gives an indescribable sense of joy to see them. When I was having my own children, the responsibilities were directly my own; I had to do everything. But now, as a grandma, you just see your children when they come with the grandchildren. You are not directly responsible for them but they are still yours. For me, it is extra excitement to see them. They are like the price life gives back to you for all the hardwork you had put in. Describe your fashion style. I love to look nice and I like putting on feminine colours. One of my favourite colours is burnt orange. I like to appear corporate. Occasionally, I wear traditional but most often, I like to appear corporate. How do you relax? I relax when I eat. When I eat, I like to watch television. That is my own form of relaxation. I take my time to eat. I don’t eat my food in a hurry. How long does it take you to eat? I can eat for up to one hour while watching television. Can you describe yourself? What I know about myself is that as much as it is possible for me, I do the correct thing. This is because I know that God is watching what I’m doing. God’s approval is the one that I care most about and not really what people feel about what I’m doing. That is the one that concerns me most and not what people are saying. Our society is a corrupt society. If you are not cutting ends, people will not be talking good about you. But for me, what really matters is what God is saying about what I’m doing. What is your life philosophy? To do everything with the fear of God, knowing that we have to give account of whatever we have done. What is your advice to mothers on how they can take adequate care of their family? Mothers should have time for their children and family. This is because the trend now is that mothers are too busy and don’t have time to take care of their children. You see, a lot of children are wasting. So my advice to mothers is that they should have time for their family and give children the attention they deserve.
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Patra’s dilemma 6 Juliet Bumah
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atra could not sleep. Richie’s medical report kept creeping into her mind. She sighed for the umpteenth time. “Does it mean my husband did not father this baby in my womb? Is it possible that Pius is the father of my baby? If he is, then he is the man! What my husband could not achieve in more than eight years, he did in minutes?” Really, Pius achieved that in minutes. Apart from that first time when the sheath slipped off, they were very careful and made sure they mated safely. It was useless lying on the bed. She got up, poured a glass of orange juice into a glass and sipped. Time was 10.30pm. Her phone rang. It was Pius. She picked it. Pius’s voice was creamy in her ears. “My love, how are you doing? Missed me? I’ve been missing you all day.” “Baby, am good. Haven’t been able to sleep,” she replied. “Why?” He asked with genuine concern. “Just restless, sweetheart,” she said. How’s my son doing? Is he kicking? You’re gonna gimme a strong boy, you know. Be ready,” Pius chatted on. Patra’s mouth went dry. Richie’s or Pius’ baby? She sipped her orange juice. “My love, are you there...?” Pius asked. “Yes baby, I’m here love. Baby is doing great,” she replied and forced herself to concentrate. “I love you Patra. I’ll be with you in a matter of days. Can we go to Abuja together? By the way, you are not having my baby in Nigeria. Hope you know that?” Patra’s heart skipped a beat. She wondered how she would handle the precarious situation she found herself. Anyway, she still had more than five months before delivery. She would sort herself out before then or things would sort themselves out. Anyhow, she would not commit suicide. She needed to make her worries known. She began, “Baby, er...er...I couldn’t sleep because...er...I’ve been thinking. If per chance, this baby is yours, how am I going to handle my husband? If I were single, there wouldn’t have been any problem but I’m not...” She was suddenly weary and her voice cracked. There was momentary silence at the other end. Then Pius sighed. “My love, if I say I’m not thinking about that, then I’m the greatest liar on earth. I know it’s a big issue but I believe that we’ll sort it out as time goes on. Love conquers all. I feel for you. I know that you are going through a lot of stress over it. I myself have been having sleepless nights, thinking of how I can take you and my baby. One thing though, there is no doubt he is my baby. I feel it in my bone. The first time I set my eyes on you, my spirit told me you are the angel sent to give me the peace that had eluded me for years. I love you Patra. Lemme take care of your worries,” he said. Somehow, half of the burden in Patra’s heart lifted and she could breath a little better. “I love you, baby,” she said, and meant it. ********** Richie tossed on the bed. Sleep eluded
him. How could he sleep when his roof was burning? As much as his heart would want him to believe there was no problem, his mind told him the truth. “Richie, you are impotent. You have been farming on someone’s field and and another man has been farming on yours.” That voice jolted him. He sat up. “Someone has been farming on my field! Who?” Now, that was a million-dollar question. The nerves on his neck bulged. He felt his breath quickened. “Hey take it easy boss. Don’t die before your actual death.” He looked around. Cherish slept peacefully beside him. He took a closer look at the sleeping girl and realised that she neither resembled him nor Ruth. Cherish had that rheumy-eyed old man’s forehead. He raised the sleeping girl’s head. Yes, a very close semblance. He swore softly. “Perhaps, the boy is mine,” he told himself without conviction. He realised that he needed to tell himself the bitter truth. Ruth had taken him for a ride. “I have to take care of this now,” he told himself. His face set, he reached for his phone. ********* Ruth was breast feeding her baby. She looked around her and smiled. She had not done badly for herself. Her 40th birthday was five weeks away. She would love to celebrate it together with her baby’s dedication. The only snag was that Richie didn’t know her real age. She couldn’t even remember how old she was supposed to be by Richie’s reckoning. She didn’t remember how old she told him she was when they met about four years ago.
“Is it possible for Richie not to be around for Junior’s dedication?” She shook her head. She doubted it. As she thought about the issue, something gnawed at the corner of her mind, but she could not lay her fingers on whatever it was. Her phone rang and she picked it and smiled. “Hello, my husband,” she cooed into the phone. “Who is Cherish’ father?” Richie’s voice was gruff and her heart almost stopped beating. “Cherish’ father? What kind of question are you asking me. How could you ask such a question? Of course, you are,” she replied, “ adding soothingly, “My darling, you are her father. Only a mother knows the true father of her children and I am telling you that you are.” She was surprised that her voice was so calm. His next question, however, took the wind off her. “My innocent wife, who is this 40-year old Patricia Gyang that you habour in your closet?” Richie voice was so calm now. “My darling, you know I’m in the hospital. I have just been treated for malaria shortly after childbirth and I’m not so strong. I’m sure there has been a mistake. We will sort it out when I get home tomorrow...” Ruth could think of nothing else to say. Her mind was in a turmoil. Her secured life was threatening to come crashing down on her head. She couldn’t remember how that phone call ended. All of a sudden, she realised what had been disturbing her mind. She shouldn’t have given Richie access to that file!
*** There was a masquerade dance competition in Richie’s village. All the fearful masquerades were singing in their guttural voices and dancing, each trying to ‘out dance’ the other. They jumped, rolled, thumped their foot and the spectators cheered. Richie’s head throbbed. The masquerades and the spectators were in his head! As they somersaulted and the spectators cheered, Richie held his head tightly. It was about to explode. Then, the biggest of the masquerades thumped in and the other masquerades ran away. The crowd cheered. “So, Patra knew all these while that I was spurting impotent fluid? So she had been sleeping with strange men in order to get pregnant? Why didn’t she tell me so that together, we would seek for solution? No wonder she was so calm on Valentine’s Day when she discovered I had a family outside our home. Family? Did I say another family? With Ruth? That lying bitch?” He laughed and shook his head but regretted it. Those two actions got his head almost cracking with pain. “But what if Patra did it to cover my shame? What if she discovered that I was the problem and decided to get herself pregnant and have the child for me? “I loved my wife and I still do. God! “ He looked around Ruth’s room and tears coursed down his cheeks. ******* Should Richie continue to live this lie? This moving series continues on Sunday. •Send your observations to: julietbumah@ gmail.com
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El Rufai: Strong in policy but not in politics p.25
We will collaborate with all tiers of govt – Niger Delta leader p.27
The Sunday Interview
Ezeife: Buhari’s crush mentality will drown Nigeria p.28-29
Politics Recently the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari marked it first anniversary, PHILIP NYAM takes a look at the relationship between the executive and the House of Representatives led by Speaker Yakubu Dogara In the beginning On June 9, 2015 against all odds, Hon. Yakubu Dogara representing Bogoro/ Dass/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency of Bauchi State from North-East Nigeria was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives for the 8th Assembly. Dogara defeated the anointed candidate of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Femi Hakeem Gbajabiamila representing Surulere I Federal Constituency of Lagos, South-East Nigeria by 182 to 174 votes. Dogara’s emergence ran at variance with the zoning arrangement of his party. Of course, immediately after his election with Hon. Sulaimon Yussuff Lasun as Deputy Speaker, the APC disowned the duo in very clear terms describing their insistence to contest and subsequently emerge as principal officers against the party’s wish as “indiscipline and treachery” The no love lost between the parties, which extended to the executive continued for some weeks before it eventually abated. Both the party and the House leadership were at this time flexing muscles and no group was ready to accede to the demands of the other. In other words, the relationship between the leadership of the House and the executive was far from cordial at the early stages of the 8th Assembly. Dogara and indeed majority of the House members insisted on asserting their legislative independence. As a result, there were rowdy sessions, where lawmakers exchanged blows in a free for all, forcing the House to shut down on several occasions because the atmosphere was not convenient for any legislative business to thrive. APC’s stance The then spokesperson for the APC and now Minister of Information, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Lai Mohammad had in a statement shortly after the election of Dogara said: “Senator Bukola and Hon. Dogara are not the candidates of the APC and a majority of its National Assembly members-elect for the positions of Senate President and House Speaker.” He said: “The party duly met and conducted a straw poll and clear candidates emerged for the posts of Senate President, Deputy Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, supported by a majority of all senators-elect and members-elect of the House of Representatives. “All National Assembly members-elect on the platform of the party are bound by that decision. The party is supreme and its interest is superior to that of its individual
Biyi Adegoroye Assistant Editor biyi.fire@yahoo.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited
One year on: Buhari, Dogara tag along
Buhari
members.” Before inauguration Events before the elections had set the tone for a frosty relationship between the party (executive) and the House leadership. The APC, in an attempt to foist its chosen candidates on the National Assembly members had on June 6, conducted mock elections where Senator Ahmed Lawan emerged as Senate President while Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila was anointed as the Speaker. But the campaign team of Dogara, the Dogara Consolidation Group kicked against the mock election and opted to test its popularity on the floor of the House. It instead termed the mock election as “illegality perpetrated by leadership of the All Progressives Congress” the group concluded that “Our position is that we are not a party to what they did and we maintain that the election of the Speaker of the House of Representatives cannot be conducted outside the chamber of the House and we are ready to participate in that process on Tuesday 9th June, 2015.” Hence, the group went ahead and Dogara emerged victorious. President’s response But as the Speaker was spitting fire and brimstones President Buhari in a somewhat veiled statement accepted the outcome of the
Dogara
election saying he “noted the outcome of the just-concluded election of leaders of the National Assembly”. A statement issued by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Femi Adesina, said the President would rather that the process of electing the leaders as initiated and concluded by the All Progressives Congress (APC) had been followed. Nonetheless, the President took the view that a constitutional process had somewhat occurred. “President Buhari had said in an earlier statement that he did not have any preferred candidate for the Senate and the House of Representatives, and that he was willing to work with whoever the lawmakers elected,” the statement said. It was clear that the President was not very comfortable with the emergence of Dogara but had to concede to the choice of the lawmakers. And Dogara cashing in on the President’s subtle opposition wrote to the President. He wrote to inform the president of his emergence as the Speaker and Sulaiman Lasun as the Deputy Speaker. The letter was read on the floor of the House in its first sitting on June 10, 2015. According to Dogara’s letter, the emergence of the two House leaders followed the assembly of a quorum of the House that elected them. In the letter, the clerk of the National Assembly was directed to notify Buhari through the
Secretary to the Federal Government (SGF) that, having assembled and properly constituted, the House is ready to receive any message he may wish to transmit. War over principal officers The third confrontation Speaker Dogara had with the party (executive) was over the appointment of principal officers. The party, which had threatened to sanction Dogara and his disloyaltymade a concession and accepted the Speaker as a prodigal son but with a caveat. The party had in a letter written on June 23 to Dogara suggested a list of principal officers to be appointed. Expectedly, Dogara turned down the party’s list and insisted on having his way. Upon receiving the list from the party, Dogara wrote back to the National Chairman of the APC, Chief John Oyegun, insisting that the positions of principal officers should be zoned instead of being appointed by the party. Dogara, had in a nine page letter, dated July 16, proposed that the House leader and deputy leader should come from and North West and North Central respectively; while the South-South and South-East should provide the Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip. Citing past antecedents, the position of the Constitution on federal character and CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
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politics Col. Fidelis Attahiru (rtd) was a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State. He speaks to MUSA PAM on why he decided to dump the PDP for the All Progressives Congress and commends President Muhammadu Buhari’s achievement within one year in office
Col. Attahiru (rtd): PDP yet to learn any lesson you that Nigeria would have collapsed by now. Yes people are complaining that the change is painful, but there is no change in this rescue attempt that people would not feel the pinch. It is not possible, let us not lie to ourselves, but the truth is for the people see its benefits, stay for one or two years and see whether we can give him a scorecard. But now the area of financial discipline is what we should appreciate Buhari for, because people now look at resources of government as people’s resources not personal resources. So I must commend Buhari for been courageous and I wish he was in office before now. You see if you look at the process of nation building, sacrifices have to be made, and the sacrifice we refused to make long ago left us with this decay. So when we start to repair the decay like this you will step on so many toes. But I’m very happy that in this entire people that were accused of impunity are not denying it; nobody has refuted and said it’s a lie. So when the fear of unknown begins to creep into our minds as Nigerians then we will begin to treat Nigeria as an entity that we should build for the future of our children unborn. We need to be patient after all if the refineries all functions and all the roads are being built with these budget that we have seen and then electricity are improving like it is now, so that business of individuals will improve and I don’t want Nigerians to complain because there is nothing good that comes easy. They should also pray for Buhari’s government to succeed and my own fear is after Buhari who is next because four years is not enough for President Buhari to correct the bad deeds in Nigeria and reposition the country.
Why did you dump the PDP now for the APC? I would not call it dumping, but will rather say I’m stepping aside from PDP, because PDP has refused to learn from the past. We thought that the lessons we learnt from 2015 elections would have allowed party leaders to lead with sincerity of purpose and allow equity and justice to reign, but we still have the same leaders trying to impose, stall and insist on appointing people. But that is not going to work. PDP has already suffered a setback on the Plateau and in Nigeria at large. For you to rebuild, there must be sincerity of purpose, but that is lacking. We have a situation where in my own local government they call for a meeting and refuse to invite me even as a stakeholder because they said I did anti-party things and they look at me as if I never participated in building the PDP. So politics is not a religion and you have the right to change when you are not satisfied. So now that I have helped to get victory for the APC and while in PDP am being accused, so why won’t I go back to the APC to help build the party? At my age I’m a stakeholder, so I have the right to decide for myself. Are you now saying APC has finally captured Plateau State? Well it depends. Every party is full of human beings and different characters. It is the same human beings that build up PDP in the first instance that had a long reign of 16 years and at the end of the day the party started disappearing because of mismanagement of ideas, mismanagement of powers and that make the party lost at both the federal and state levels during the elections. We thought the lessons of the past like I have said would guide the PDP to rebuild the party, but the same old story is being told and what is happening now is that the PDP is already going the other way round. So the party that I have helped to build to succeed I will continue to support at both federal and state levels. What is your assessment of President Muhammadu Buhari within one year in office? Well, the coming of President Buhari was apt at a time that Nigerians really needed somebody to bring back the
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some House Rules, Dogara, in the letter also copied to President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, in his capacity as the Progressive Governors’ forum mediator, Governor Rochas Okorocha, Chairman, Progressive Governors’ Forum and Chairman, Forum of APC State Chairmen, insisted that the proposal he made was legal, constitutional and would neutralise all pending cases instituted on the matter. According to Dogara: “The proposal satisfies the provisions of Order 1 of our Rules, the Constitutional provision on Federal Character and gives all parts of Nigeria a sense of belonging. The proposal will also obviate all pending Court cases filed by some Zonal Caucuses on the matter. “To resolve this problem, we had offered that some of the aggrieved members of our party, APC, who lost the election for the office of Presiding Officers, should produce some of the remaining Principal Officers for peace to reign. “For emphasis, we have conceded the position of Leader of the House and Chief Whip to those aggrieved, as long as the persons should not come from the North East or South West Zones that have already produced the Speaker and Deputy Speaker,” he said, pledging that he would avail members excluded by his proposal “with other commensurate appointments or other existing opportunities for service to the nation.” “We owe a duty to lay the truth bare as we
Attahiru
country on track. If you look at the Nigerian economy last year it was sinking without any direction, but the coming of Buhari has brought hope to the Nigerian economy and also rescued Nigeria from sinking like a ship. What do you think is the key achievement of President Buhari’s one year in office? Nigeria was a country without direction, but President Buhari came to rescue us. First we were without discipline and people were doing what they liked. Take for example the rubber plantation where people will just go to the bush, milk the rubber tree turned it into tyres and other materials sell them without even bringing little to nurture the trees for future use. So they almost milked this country to a standstill before Buhari came to our rescue. So that rescue alone is an achievement of Buhari Administration. Else I can tell
How will you also describe the administration of Governor Lalong in the past one year? I hail from the same place with Governor Lalong, in fact he is my cousin and I know him very. He happen to be a very prudent young man, the same obstacles that Buhari is facing is the same obstacles that Governor Lalong is facing, but even with this challenges Lalong has started well. Of course there are detractors from all left and right and centre writing and making all kind of rubbish statement, but I was part of the stakeholders meeting where Lalong invited all of us in the state where the Accountant General of the state make known to everyone the financial status of the state. It clearly shows the financial problem of the state and I expect anyone in doubt to write to demand for explanation instead of unnecessary criticism. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
One year on: Buhari, Dogara tag along have done in this case. The Party in conjunction with Governors, National leaders and the APC Causes in the House may agree otherwise as the saying goes, ‘volenti non fit injuria.’ “Our Party must not have the undistinguished honour of setting a precedent outside of the provisions of the Constitution and the Rules of the House,” he explained, urging that the proposal be considered on its merits. Appointment of principal officers After more than one month of fighting in the House and disagreeing with the party, Dogara finally recapitulated and announced his arch rival, Gbajabiamila as House Leader on July 29. This singular move helped calm frayed nerves in the House. The meeting where Dogara eventually agreed to accept Gbajabiamila was said to be at the behest of President Muhammadu Buhari. Of course, both the party and House leadership made some concessions to attain that level of peace. In that instance, Hon. Ado Doguwa, from the party’s stable was named Chief Whip, while, Hon. Buba Jibrin, from Dogara’s camp emerged Deputy Leader. Hon. Pally Iraise who had pandered on both sides but was originally from the party’s camp was named Deputy Whip. In the same vein, Hon. Leo Ogor emerged Minority Leader; Hon. Chukwuma Onyema, Deputy Minority Whip; and Hon. Yakubu Umar, the Minority Whip.
Budget and ding-dong After the appointment of principal officers, the relationship between the executive and the House bonded. All requests from the executive were treated expressly by the House. A supplementary budget sent to the House was passed without hassles ditto loan requests for Lagos and Edo states received expeditious approval. There were indeed absence of any confrontation until the submission of the 2016 budget estimates by President Buhari. Even when the budget came, the House played along with the executive and almost always sided with the executive. For example, when the Senate declared that the budget was missing, the House declared that its own copy was intact. In fact at one of the plenary sessions, Speaker Dogara ordered the then clerk of the House, Alhaji Mohammed Sani-Omoloru, to publicly display copies of the budget for Nigerians to see. Consequently, when the Presidency amended the budget estimates and sent a covering letter to the House and the opposition led by Minority Leader, Hon. Leo Ogor kicked against it, Dogara ensured that the House aligned with the executive. The PDP legislatures kicked but Dogara stood his ground and the issue was put to rest. Of course, the consideration of the budget and its eventual passage almost marred the cordial relationship between the House and the executive; it was averted through the me-
ticulous handling of the issue by the speaker. For example, when the president refused to assent to the bill and insisted that the insertions made by the National Assembly must be expunged, the Senate insisted that it had finished work on the budget and would not take a look at it again. But the House quickly announced that it was ready to review the budget. This development forced the senate to change its position and team up with the House and the budget was finally amended. Again, the House displayed its support for the executive after the announcement of subsidy removal and eventual hike in the pump price of fuel. At the special plenary session it convened, the House appealed to the labour unions to jettison strike action but negotiate with government. Yet, the House failed to impress on the government to return to status quo until the negotiations are over. Unlike the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, Speaker Dogara and his leadership have a close relationship with the presidency and indeed the executive. Apart from the initial hiccups occasioned by the defiant emergence of Dogara and his deputy and the disagreements that emanated in the run to the appointment of principal officers, the House and the Presidency have had a rosy relationship in the past one year. The House under Dogara has not been unnecessarily criticising the presidency.
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ometimes, speed, efficiency and effectiveness are strange bedfellows such that one is often sacrificed to achieve the other. However, in Kaduna State, the three are in perfect harmony, working to achieve results. Specifically, the quantum and quality of programmes in the last one year have placed Governor El Rufai above his predecessors and most of his colleagues across the country. El Rufai, the “Accidental Public Servant,’’ has achieved more results than most dyedin-the-wool public servants within one year. Similarly, the diminutive but dynamic and daring governor has been the most controversial of the lot. Most often, his unorthodox style of governance is always in the news and largely, it has shaped the perception of his administration, rather than his roaring success. Significantly, on May 29, 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari, several state governors and El Rufai, were sworn in a year ago. However, before the handover, Nigerians from all walks of life and some foreigners had advised the new helmsmen to hit the ground running. El Rufai, on his part, had started running even before hitting the ground, making appointments before he was sworn in. On May 27, he had made five appointments, two days before receiving the mantle of leadership. Specifically he had appointed Alhaji Balarabe Lawal Abbas, a former lecturer, as the new Secretary to the State Government. Similarly, Dr. Salisu Suleiman and Mr. Abu Sheyin were appointed Principal Private Secretaries of El Rufai and his deputy, Arch Barnabas Bantex respectively. In addition, Hon Bala Yunusa was made deputy Chief of Staff while Mr. Samuel Aruwan, Kaduna Bureau Chief of Blueprint newspaper, became El Rufai’s Special Assistant on Media. After the swearing in, El Rufai embarked on policy initiatives and novel programmes at jet speed but was hampered by an empty treasury. The governor, in a state broadcast, then analysed how the last administration had lied with statistics about its indebtedness. Significantly, after combining receipts from the Federation Account and Internally Generated Revenue, former Governor Muktar Yero could not settle personnel and overhead costs without borrowing every month. ‘’In simple terms, the former Kaduna State government and its local governments existed only to pay salaries, and they borrowed monies monthly to keep the governments running,’’ El Rufai had revealed. In fact, civil servants and political appointees, according to him, consumed more than 100 per cent of the state’s resources, ‘’leaving nothing for the development of education, healthcare, agriculture, roads, and water supply.’’ Consequently, the state’s debt amounted to N74.297bn, comprising N28.840billion domestic and N45.44billion foreign debts. As at July, 2015, the state government alone, according to El Rufai, ‘’has unsettled liabilities to contractors, consultants and suppliers of about N25billion and shortfalls in pension contributions of N8.371billion.’’ Quickly, El Rufai took steps to arrest the situation, especially by plugging loop holes, stopping wastages and cutting expenditure. In particular, overhead spending was cut by 60 percent and he slashed by 50 per cent his salary and that of his deputy. Similarly, ministries were pruned from 19 to 13, while permanent secretaries were reduced from 35 to 18. In addition, the yearly Ramadan Feeding programme was also affected by the austerity measures. El Rufai cancelled the programme, beginning from the last Ramadan. In summary, the administration saved about N1. 2 billion, according to Dr. Uba Sani, the Special Adviser on Political Matters, as a result of these cost cutting measures in three months of the administration. In addition, the government has improved its IGR in the last one year, from N224 million last December to N2 billion in February, 2016. Specifically, the government had reviewed its tax systems and the new tax code, according to reports, has plugged all revenue leakages. Similarly, the state has abolished the much abused local government joint account as council funds, according to El Rufai, are now
politics
El Rufai: Strong in policy but not in politics
Like the Accidental Public Servant that he is, Governor Nasir Ahmad El Rufai of Kaduna State has been conceiving and formulating his policies and projects with the detachment of a technocrat in the last one year, with high degree of success. However, most people in the state perceive him as insensitive and out of sync with their aspirations as IBRAHEEM MUSA highlighted in this analysis
El=Rufai
given to them directly to spend on areas of priority. In addition, the state remits 10 percent of IGR to the local government areas. Significantly, apart from curbing waste, cutting the size of government and increasing IGR, El Rufai has created over 125,000 direct jobs within less than one year in office. The governor, at a Town Hall meeting in February, said the state school feeding programme has engaged at least 85,000 people, including food vendors, their staff and supervisors. Similarly, the free school uniforms for Junior Secondary School Students, has created 11,100 jobs for local tailors while the school rehabilitation project has given 7,542 people something to do. Similarly, he mentioned the Waste Collection and Disposal Scheme, the construction of solar boreholes, the employment of Mathematics and Science teachers across the state, including sundry engagements, as job creation programes that have been initiated in the last one year. In April, El Rufai hosted the Kaduna Economic and Investment Summit, where investors, financiers and development partners, including an assortment of business men, attended from April 6 to 7. Specifically, the aim was to show case the investment potentials of Kaduna State and the leading lights of financial and business sectors converged in Kaduna for two days. Subsequently, Dangote Group promised to set up a $10 million Tomato Farming and Processing Company in the state. Similarly, immediately after the summit, a ground breaking ceremony was performed along Kaduna-Abuja express way, where Olan will establish a $150 million Poultry and Hatchery, the biggest in Sub-Saharan African. However, in spite of these achievements, El Rufai’s name has been synonymous with controversy in the last one year, especially
the demolition of buildings. Significantly, opponents tried to use this against him during campaign but the electorate simply turned a deaf ear. In fact, the slogan ‘’ Kaduna Sai Mai Rusau’’, meaning ‘’only a demolisher can govern Kaduna State,’’ became a rallying song for El Rufai’s supporters at that time. However, the song of praise turned to curses and admonitions when the governor moved in the bull dozers to reclaim public lands located within or around hospitals and schools. Before then, rumour was rife that the bulldozers were on their way but they were largely ignored. However, on August 2, 2015, the government clarified the matter when Mr. Samuel Aruwan, the Special Assistant on Media, government had given a three-week quit notice to illegal squatters and that the ultimatum would expire the next day. However, in spite of this positive spin, the recovery exercise was actually a demolition exercise and the bulldozers pulled down buildings in and around Alhudahuda College on August 5. About 500 houses located at Kofar Doka, outside the school, were demolished and this action displaced about 10,000 people. Tears, abuses and lamentations trailed the exercise as the victims couldn’t dare the armed soldiers that escorted the bulldozers. In addition, criticisms and law suits followed the demolition as both the victims and government officials traded blames. The government, on its own part, had described the victims as illegal squatters who had no valid documents. The victims, on the other hand, bandied several documents issued by local authorities as against the state government. Significantly, the uproar and condemnations that greeted the exercise bore some fruits. In particular, the shops along Constitution Road, which share the same fence with
some primary schools, were spared despite their being marked for demolition. Similarly, the houses within Rimi College were spared, so were the edifices along College Road. Property owners within Rimi College were compensated and were promised alternative plots. The landlords, government argued , had acquired their lands legally as previous governments are to blame for giving them carve outs. However, critics had dismissed this explanation as they accused El Rufai of selective justice. Last April, hundreds of protesters came out en mass, carrying various placards, kicking against the planned demolition of over 3,000 houses at Gbagy Villa. The protesters comprising landlords, tenants and their children had faulted the conflicting reasons given by the authorities to justify the demolition. According to them, Kaduna State Urban Planning Development Authority (KASUPDA) had cited alleged non-possession of planning permission in their demolition notice but the Director-General of Lands said that they had encroached on Kaduna Polytechnic land. Similarly, they described the planned exercise as inconsistent with the laws of the land and insensitive to plights of community members. According to Mr. Chris Obodumu, the Chairman of land owners within the disputed land , “ Section 16, sub-section 2(d) of 1999 constitution of Nigeria as amended, provides that the state shall directs its policy towards, among other things, ensuring that suitable and adequate shelter are provided for all citizens “. In addition, he pointed out that even the United Nations recognises the provision of shelter as part of the irreducible minimum of the fundamental duty of every government to its citizens. ‘’We have provided shelters for ourselves and families, it is therefore unconscionable ,immoral and constitutionally indefensible for any government , especially one that rode to power on the crest of poor welfare delivery by past governments, to plan to demolish a place like Gbagyi Villa where citizens have built over 3,000 houses.” Right now, the matter is in court. As if that is not enough, El Rufai has now locked horns with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), when he decided to make unionism optonal. Workers, for this reason, are being asked whether or not they wished to join the NLC and for this reason, organised labour is baying for blood. In particular, they accused El Rufai of straying into their domain and they promised to mobilise Nigerian workers against him if he continues. Consequently, all of NLC’s top hats converged on Kaduna to protest the decision. Point blank, Comrade Ayuba Waba, the NLC president, gave El Rufai a seven-day ultimatum to rescind what he described as antiworkers policies or workers will shut down the entire country in solidarity with Kaduna civil servants. Waba said that El-Rufai was playing god with Kaduna State workers and had shown no empathy towards them, especially over the various tragedies that had befallen them the various verification exercises. Significantly, Waba’s ultimatum has expired and NLC has neither shut down the state, nor prevented El Rufai from making unionism optional.
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SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
politics
We will collaborate with all tiers of govt – Niger Delta leader The newly elected President-General of Ndokwa National Union (Ndokwa Neku), Chief Johnson Ossai Opone wants Niger Delta communities to apply diplomacy in tackling issues like Fulani herdsmen attacks and the stepping down of the 600 megawatts Okpai Power Plant in the oilrich Ndokwa nation in this interview with SONY NEME
With your emergence as a leader in the Niger Delta, what are the critical areas that will attract your immediate attention? As you rightly pointed out, elections have come and gone, the next stage is to hit the ground running as our people’s needs have to be urgently attended to. The first and most important thing is that of reaching out to all contestants, because the election was a win-win situation; especially as we have to move the Ndokwa nation forward. We are commencing with a peace move, so as to bring everybody back on board. We are also going to work with the immediate past executives, to make our job of moving Ndokwa nation forward easier. We won’t be talking about a blueprint without, first and foremost bringing everybody together. While on that, our first move is to light up the entire Ndokwa nation, because despite hosting a major power plant that supplies over 600 megawatts, servicing about six states in the country, with several oil companies flaring gas here, the entire Ndokwa nation remains in darkness! Ironically, the step down of the Okpai power plant is located at far away Obosi in Anambra State. We intend to work with the three tiers of government towards having a 33kva transmission line, and a step down in any part of Ndokwa land, for a start. That will serve as main hub of supply, and transmission of light to homes and factories, as we intend to industrialise the entire Ndola land through our worthy sons and daughters, and friends of Ndokwa as well. One of the things you were accused of by some opinion molders was that you are too independent minded for their liking. How do you hope to change this mindset about you?
I am not the type that brags about my personality. I am very accessible, and I remain humble as ever. In fact, our second item on priority is engaging all stakeholders, including the oil companies and the three tiers of government on the issue of motorable roads across the three local governments that make up the Ndokwa nation. Please mark my words, we will ensure that all our dilapidated roads are fixed so our people can enjoy good road network. Our people are predominantly fishermen and farmers, so we will pursue vigorously an agro-revolution project in the areas of production, processing and marketing. This will ensure that our people will not only participate in cultivation, but also be involved in processing, and we will take them through the dynamics of export trade where applicable. For example the ederal government has listed cassava as a major foreign exchange earner. And our people are predominantly cassava farmers. Furthermore, we will ask the federal and state governments to look into the injustice done to the old Aboh Division, part of which makes up the present three local government areas in Delta state, on the issue of at least a higher institution in Ndokwa land. On that score, one of the things I must have to work on is the revalidation of Act of parliament on Kwale Industrial College of Technology, passed by the late Professor Ambrose Alli regime in the old Bendel State. Kwale, being one of the oldest local government headquarters in Nigeria deserves an urgent attention in that aspect, as the approved institution has remained on the drawing board decades after. We will ensure that school becomes functional during my tenure. Also there is a state polytechnic at Aboh that is not fully operational due to
‘PDP yet to learn any lesson’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 4
Governor Lalong is barely operating Plateau State on a very thin budget, even most of the fund is been used to finance the projects of the last administration. So it is a problem and I want people to see that a young man like Lalong with some good resilience and purposefulness needs support from all stakeholders in the state to succeed instead of tearing him from left, right and centre. A lot of us left PDP during elections and supported him and we are being called all sorts of names that we committed anti-party, but we ensure that Lalong got to the seat of power. In fact they even tried several times to burn down my car in Kwande and threatening to destroy my house just because I was in PDP and supported Lalong because of Plateau Project. Now the detraction is not what we are looking for,
let us look at the way forward for the state, and avoid blind criticism. Lalong’s doors are widely opened for people to advise him. So we are praying for Lalong and expecting him to open his doors for those who have constructive criticism for development to advise him, and we will not allow him to be caged by people who will hinder him from hearing the voice of the grassroots. In fact I have already dumped the PDP for APC/ as we are talking now my ward has officially completed all documentations for me to be fully integrated into the APC. My reason is that I want to go back to the home that I have built and supported and if you look at the blueprint of APC, it is a government that stands for the masses, and APC needs critical stakeholders to join it. So I cannot stay outside and support the government so I’m fully back to APC to support Governor Lalong.
Opone
lack of basic amenities. We will be working with our eminent sons and daughters, as well as the oil companies operating in Ndokwa land, the federal and state governments through their agencies, such as Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), Delta State Oil Production Area Development Commission, DESOPADEC, and Petroleum Trust Development Fund, (PTDF) among others. We will be working with them to come to the of the institution in terms of facilities needed to enable the place to properly take off and equitably distributed within the three local government areas. Unemployment has been identified as a major reason behind d consistent restive situation in the Niger Delta, what difference are you bringing to the table? We have designed a robust programme for our youth that will keep them better equipped In any profession of their choice to tackle unemployment. For those who may want to pursue their careers outside the academia, we are going to empower them after seminars and workshops. For our women, we will ensure a sustainable micro credit scheme that will properly help and encourage in improving and sustaining their entrepreneurial skills. Though we won’t be building centers, but there will be seminars and skill acquisition programs where we will bring in experts from Nigeria and across the globe. Thereafter, we will donate tools needed by the participants relevant to their acquired skills. We will also be carrying out several activities using both local and international agencies, such as the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP through joint venture funding. With marching grants in conjunction with Delta State government, we will be able to create an enabling environment to tackle the unemployment issue in Ndokwa land. What are you seeing as the most formidable challenge given the situation on ground, and how’s do you hope to surmount same? The immediate challenge is what I will refer to as the catalyst to our programmes, which is power. Without power nothing meaningful will be achieved. So we intend to meet with Nigeria Agip Oil Company, (NAOC), and Federal Government, because when Chief Olusegun Obasanjo came to commission the 600 megawatts Okpai Power Plant, he did mentioned to all stake-
holders involved on the need to electrify Ndola. Having been a partner in charge of National Electricity Power Authority from 1985 till 1987, I am very conversant with the power sector in Nigeria. For me that is the core challenge. From our investigation, the herdsmen menace has forced most of your people to abandon their farmlands with attendant consequences, how are you going to tackle this? Though the issue of herdsmen is presently with the Federal Government, however, we will be at the forefront to encourage the Federal Government to have a programme that will be check their excesses. Cattle rearing did not start today, but they have become more dangerous, because they are being armed. When I was growing up they come around, but they don’t destroy people’s farms. Today they are let lose because they are armed. So we want the Federal Government to disarm them because it is dangerous for them to be parading with AK47. When you say people are militants, is not because they are armed? I see this people as terrorists. However, we will ensure that those settlements they are talking about do not encroach in the farmlands of our people, especially as the Federal Government is planning to settle them in ranches. Because all over the world, it is the man that own cattle that provides his ranches. What are your views and advise to militants in the renewed militancy in Niger Delta? As for my views, I have made my recommendations and suggestions to the authorities concerned. It won’t be nice revealing such strategies on the pages of newspapers. I am still studying the situation. As for my advice, I will seize medium to appeal to our boys and all concerned to tow the part of peace. We can get better deals through negotiations. Windows for such should be exploited by both sides. I am not in support of the destruction of our national wealth, so also I am not in support of military options in the Niger Delta. Dialogue remains a better option What is your message to your people? As a servant leader, my people can count on me in terms of transparency, honesty and accessibility. I also assure them that I will remain humble as I have been over the years.
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 5 JUNE 2016
politics
Ugwuanyi’s combination of development and unification Louis Amoke
O
n May 29, 2016, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State mounted the podium at Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, to address the people of the state on his administration’s one year stewardship. The governor presented a compendium of his achievements so far and made projections into the future on how to continue to advance good governance and guide the state through the current economic reality in the country. It was indeed a scorecard of a worthy and visionary leader, as the governor demonstrated his passion for good governance and commitment to deliver on his campaign promises to the people of the state. It is on record that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in just one year in office has completed six major road projects while over 15 development projects are on-going and has also recorded unprecedented feats in other sectors. His administration has also advertised the award of contract for 25 new roads including three bridges in the 17 local government areas as part of his administration’s grassroots development initiatives and the exercise is currently at the stage of bidding. He equally appreciated the people of the state both at home and in the Diaspora for the overwhelming support, goodwill, cooperation and solidarity they have continued to accord his administration from inauguration, describing them as “the true heroes of democracy” The governor also paid special respects to the founding fathers and elders of the state, all former governors, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu and other members of the National Assembly, the clergy and all other major stakeholders of the state for their cooperation, sincere and unrelenting prayers for the peace and progress of the state under his watch. One fact of significance about the celebration is that it was the first time an immediate past governor of the state attended the first anniversary of his successor. Chief Sullivan Chime, was prominent on the roll call of those who witnessed the colorful, rich and peaceful first anniversary of his successor, Gov. Ugwuanyi. While congratulating President Muhammadu Buhari and indeed all Nigerians for the attainment and sustenance of 17 unbroken years of democracy, Gov. Ugwuanyi stated that the feat “shows our common faith in the progress and stability of our country and our capability to accomplish any goal that we have set our minds upon, despite our differences.” In his Democracy Day address, the governor recalled that he “did proclaim that my divinely appointed mission, was to bring good news, message of continued hope, peace and development to our people; to bind up the broken hearted; to proclaim liberty to every Wawa man caught in the prison of poverty and underdevelopment. “I promised that we will deploy government services to create fair and equal opportunity for every willing citizen to make a living and create wealth, educate our children, and enjoy life in a peaceful and secure environment. I said that we will drive with full force, investment promotion, renewal of the agricultural sector, provision of critical infrastructure, human capital development and skills acquisi-
Ugwuanyi
tion. “Ndi Enugu, I believe that a critical appraisal of our actions and achievements within this past one year, will show that we have not only kept faith with these promises despite the severe economic difficulties confronting our nation today and we are poised to do even much more.” Gov. Ugwuanyi as a pragmatic leader, after presenting the true picture of the state of the economy which has caused the monthly allocation to states from the Federation Account to fall to less than 38 per cent of what it used to be, unwaveringly declared that “notwithstanding these bleak economic realities, we were able to embark on the massive development of urban and rural roads across the state in fulfillment of our promise to create more urban centres, enhance rural access and boost economic activities in every corner of Enugu State.” On investment promotion, he said the state currently occupies a prominent space in the global economic map, owing to the resounding success of the first ever Enugu State Investment Summit which we organised to showcase the economic potentials of the state in line with our promise to vigourously promote investment and pursue the diversification of the state’s economy.” He expressed confidence that investors will soon take advantage of this great opportunity to do businesses in the state. On rural and agricultural development, the governor stated that his administra-
tion constructed a 15-kilometre InterTown Connection (ITC) 2.5MVA Injection Sub-Station at Ezi-Nze, Udi Local Government Area which currently supplies electricity to communities in Udi, IgboEtiti and Uzo-Uwani Local Government Areas. He said that injection sub-station will also activate businesses in these rural communities and power the Adada Dam Project as well as the Greater Nsukka Water Scheme, adding that it procured 20 tractors to be hired to genuine farmers at very low rates. He also disclosed that his administration recently acquired 750 hectares of land to be distributed to youths and women for use in commercial agriculture, noting that each beneficiary will be allocated three hectares of land for his or her use in the scheme. In health sector, the state government observed that the sector was already receiving a breath of fresh air, and has continued to sustain its acclaimed Free Maternal Health and Child Care programme while ensuring the proper equipment and staffing of existing health institutions in the state. The administration was also on the verge of completing the ultra-modern medical diagnostic centre in Enugu and arrangements have been made for commencement of the construction of three new Specialist Hospitals in the three senatorial zones of the state in pursuit of its aspiration to turn Enugu State into the choice destination for medical treatment and medical tourism in the country. On workers’ welfare, his administration has made the welfare
of workers a focal point by ensuring the regular payment of salaries and pensions. The state government has successfully utilised the bailout fund from the Federal Government to liquidate outstanding pensions and subventions to parastatals, agencies and departments, adding that the industrial disputes between the government and some of her agencies and their workers have been resolved amicably. In line with the interest his administration has in the welfare of workers, he noted that electricity, water and other ancillary services at the new secretariat complex have been provided and arrangements are been concluded for the formal hand-over of 100 units of one bedroom flats won through an open lottery system by lucky civil servants for which the State Government paid over 30 per cent equity contribution. On reforms in the finance and economic development sector, he said that the issue of wastages and leakages in governance have been addressed, and have resulted to a significant increase in the state’s internally generated revenue. On education, he disclosed that his administration immediately upon assumption of office embarked on a programme for the renovation, rehabilitation and reequipment of affected schools across the state to ensure that school children and their teachers enjoy a safe and conducive environment for learning. The governor stated that the government recently approved the release of funds for the execution of N3 billion worth of projects for the renovation of over 276 primary and secondary schools in the state with the Federal Government providing 50 per cent of the sum. He added that fruitful efforts have been made to provide and improve necessary infrastructure and facilities in all the state’s tertiary institutions. On security his administration has strengthened and sustained the comparatively high and enviable level of security in the state through our concrete support for security agencies in the State, through donation of 20 new vehicles to the agencies and continued provision of necessary logistics to aid their operations across the state. He further stated that his administration has reactivated and reinvigorated the neighbourhood watch associations in all communities with a donation of an initial seed money of N100 million. On quick response to the feelings of the people, he reminded the crowd that his administration took concrete steps to end touting, illegal collection of fees and undue harassment and intimidation of citizens. On sports, he noted that the state government has also made successful strides to revive sports and youth development in the past one year, especially the Rangers International Football Club which has posed an impressive performance. Worthy of note though was the Fulani herdsmen attack at Nibo Ukpabi which claimed many lives. But good enough peace has been restored. A review of the salient achievements showcased by Gov. Ugwuanyi in the past one year, in spite of the harsh economic situation in the country can hardly be exhausted here. This goes to prove that the governor is a worthy and visionary leader committed to the progress of the state. The journey has only just begun. Amoke, wrote in from Enugu.
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SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
The Sunday
Ezeife: Buhari’s crush mental
Former governor of old Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, in this interview with BIYI ADEGOROYE, delivers a damning verdict i Independent People of Biafra and Movement for the Sovereign State of Biafra at the commemoration of the declaration of State of Biafra What is your reaction to the killing of tens of IPOB and MASOB members while commemorating the declaration of Biafra on May 30 in Onitsha, Anambra State? My reaction is to beg Yoruba; beg all the groups in the Middle Belt; beg Fulani and the Hausa people and the rest of Nigerians to help to beg the President Muhammadu Buhari not to waste Igbo lives like chicken. And people who went to a Roman Catholic Church could only be carrying one weapon - Bible. They were attending the memorial of their fellow youths who were slaughtered in the Nigeria-Biafra War, which was imposed on our people after the pogrom in the North. So what could be wrong in doing that without carrying any weapon: without any offensive item on them, and four of our best priests were mentioned to have been involved including Cardinal Francis Arinze and the Catholic Arch-Bishop of Owerri, Anthony Obinna- one of the most respected bishops in our time. They were involved in this memorial service, hence the killing was grossly unnecessary, after the Aba incident in Abia State and after the fiasco in Enugu by Fulani herdsmen who killed over 50 of our people. The Enugu killing was particularly inhuman and pathetic So this is it. At the beginning, I was protesting the discrimination against SouthEast in appointments when more than 40 men were called in the first appointments made by President Buhari, and none of them is from Igboland. Even now as I talk to you, there is no South-East person in the nation’s nine-man Security Council- no Igbo at all. There are so many of them. I have made these interventions with the hope that the President would change his attitude towards the South-East, but all I got was that I was declared an enemy of the North and of Mr. President. I did not have anything else in mind. I was just trying to remind the President that he has sworn to defend the Constitution of Nigeria. The Constitution promotes the principle of national character. I first noticed this during the allocation of portfolios to the ministers and I said by his action, the President was pushing the South-East out of Nigeria. After another interview in The Sun newspaper titled ‘Buhari is discriminating against Ndigbo,’ I was branded the enemy of government, but the fact is that I don’t have any reason to be one. With the killing of these unarmed youths, the second time after the other killings, I think it has gone too far. Our people must do something and by this I do not mean by bearing arms, but to do something to keep ourselves alive. Not by fighting Federal Government, we don’t have the might, but it is time to go and develop the South-East such that economic reasons cannot be the driving force for emigration from the place. It is time to unite ourselves, it is time to look critically and look around to make friend with other Nigerians from a position of strength and I think, most importantly, the time is now for Ndigbo to seek the face of God. I think it is also important for other Nigerians to look at what is happening to see what they can do to be of help, because life is irreplaceable; no slain person can come back to life. This issue of depopulating the South-East is a very serious issue and we need the help all of you, especially those of you people of the press to begin a campaign against it.
But the soldiers from 82 Division in Enugu said some of them were armed and were going to blow up the Onitsha Bridge? The army and government information machineries will always paint a picture that favours them. How can people carry arms to go and see Bishop in a church? So these lies must stop. Lying is not a way of governance; it is against God and humans that government should be laying. It was after the death of plenty of people that they started fabricating these lies to justify their action. There were no offensive weapons; there was no club, not even machete in the hands of the youths. There was no need for that and you begin to wonder why government deployed Army in the first place. These people are indigenes and not foreign invaders. Why was the Army deployed? Army is a protector against foreign invaders. Why should armed policemen even be involved? The reports from the incident included one from a young medical doctor who treated some of the wounded and who was worried that the killers went to hospitals to collect some of the wounded. There were also photographs of the dying, the dead and the wounded. In addition to sharing with other Nigerians, the unprecedented hardship of the present economic, social and security situations, the people of Southeast must add mourning for the untimely deaths of their youths, in the hands of those paid to defend them against foreign invaders. And the tears from the burials of those recently killed by those infected wrongly and mistakenly with superiority psychosis, are yet to dry. You see, one of the issues I have with Northern Elders was that in one of their letters to President Buhari, they asked him to crush Independent People of Biafra. You see, one point they fail to note is that this crush mentality can only pull us down. So I am appealing to the media again and to all Nigerians to plead with the President on behalf of the Igbo people because this hatred is too much and it is very clear. Above all, lying about it makes it worse. Last Tuesday, some Igbo leaders led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani and South-East Governors met separately with President Buhari. Don’t you think they were there to address these issues? No. I don’t know what they went for, but I saw some media reports that said they were there to enhance the fortunes of the All Progressives Congress in the South-East. That was what I saw. You will recall that Senator Nnamani led the group referred to as South-East Group for Change. So that tells it all and that was what I saw. I’m not sure they were there over these issues. But don’t you think the activities of IPOB, MASOB and NDC are actually dangerous to the nation? Any injustice is dangerous to the nation and by their activities MASOB, IPOB and Niger Delta Avengers are raising consciousness about the injustice done to their sections of Nigeria. In IPOD’s case, they are carrying no arms in doing so. And some time ago after the killing in Aba and some of our people talked about self-defence, I wrote in the papers saying that any defence we want to use should not involve the use of
Ezeife
arms because we are not ready for that. So we don’t want to carry arms. Now coming to the issue in the Niger Delta, one should put it in perspective. I read something in the papers that 80 something per cent of oil wells in the region are in the hands of some people from the North. Umaru Yar’Adua, as President put in place the Amnesty Programme, but today, I’m not sure that it is still there, instead, they are negotiating with Boko Haram. Injustice breeds problem for any country. I call on the Niger Delta Avengers to please give negotiation a chance, even as I call on government to drop their crush mentality and negotiate with these people. I see a movement towards that already, but we must pray that government will go for negotiation instead
of this military action. We are saying the price of oil has gone down in the international market, don’t you think things will get worse if we are unable to meet our daily output? We are passing through an unprecedented crises- security wise, economy and you just name it. I think we should pray and negotiate. For the South-East try, besides praying to achieve our manifest goals, we must pour our talents into the development of our territory. The parlous state of the economy and the condition of the states, according to some people should make Nigeria to consider a return to regionalism. Do you agree with that? In fact, even the 2014 conference gave
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y Interview
lity will drown Nigeria
in reaction to the recent military action against members of the a, and reviews President Muhammadu Buhari’s first year in office have what we may call provinces, but not the full-fledge states as we now have them. Then you have an arrangement where some structures will play the role of local governments. These are modern traits of regionalism and we should try to practise them. The central will still be strong, but it will allow for lots of regional freedom. People who want Sharia should be allowed to practice it. Under the proposed regional government, the power of the central government will not be as strong as they are now. Every region will be able to grow at its own pace, utilize its resources and optimize its potential just like we had shortly after independence and we were able to record phenomenal growth. The other day, I was listening to a governor who said in a church service and it was reported by a television station, that he has no power over the police, he has no power over the civil defence. The question is why do we refer to him as the Chief Security Officer of the State then? That is why I say we should revisit those Aburi recommendations. It is not appropriate to say on Aburi we stand because those who are not from that part of the country would misinterpret it. But let us look at it critically, the situation starring at us in the face today underscores the need for the zones to have a measure of economic and political ‘independence’. In a media interview last week, President Buhari said he had not read the report of the National Conference, neither has any of his aides briefed him about the recommendation because the sum of N9billion was wasted on such a conference when ASUU was on strike and students were at home. Well, it is like somebody reporting himself. I think we should applaud him for saying that he has not read the report. But if you want to be President of Nigeria you have to know what is there in the report and decide to pick or chose any of the recommendations there. I don’t know how to put it. I think we are not all concerned about Nigeria’s problems. The point is anyone who is President of Nigeria should be conversant with Nigeria’s problems and the recommendations of those cream of Nigerians represent an agglomeration of our position and should hardly be thrown away.
nod for federalism and we agreed on the creation of 18 new states. The fact is that we need those states for the peace of this country, but are the current 36 states viable? Now if the answer is no. Many of the states today cannot pay salaries. Many of them owe salaries in excess of five months, and the dependence on oil is huge. You and I know that income from all has plummeted and the effect is everywhere. Look at the heavy debt hanging over all of them. It is horrendous. The issue is how do we solve the problem? We can only solve the problem if we go back to the regional arrangement based on the six geo-political zones, with the zones becoming the federating units. And besides this, in each of the zones, we will
President Buhari was one year in office last week. How will you assess his government so far? I have been looking for things to praise the government for. Of course, everyone knows that there is much suffering in the land, because the economy is doing badly. Sometime ago, I read in the papers that the President has approved floating exchange rate and I was very elated. I looked back and commended the government that that was a move that should be lauded without any reservation. Floating exchange rate is better in this circumstance than devaluation to N280 or N300. For one thing, it will be consistent with the anti-corruption war. It will also help the government to pay salaries. You don’t go and buy dollars at the bank rate and sell it in the black market – that is what they call round tripping. So it will help the anti-corruption war and also assist in putting money in the hands of the government. You cannot have any alter-
native to it. But one fact remains that this government has broken all its promises. It promised to make naira at par with dollars, Today, I don’t know how many people have received N5, 000 promised- if any and if they did, it has been made useless by inflation rate in the country. Nigerians are not happy about the rising cost of living and loss of jobs. Though I praise the government for its anti-corruption policy, but the policy is being corrupted by government’s actions. It is becoming a selective. Even me, since I have been labeled his enemy, I understand they are investigating my accounts. Like I said, it
is bad when a government lies to its people. How do your rate the government in the area of security? It means that you want me to tell you what is on your mind. I know we have recorded some success in the war against Boko Haram in the North. But the fact is that the country is in a bad shape, but calling President Buhari a bad name will not solve the problem. What will solve the problem is to pray to God to direct the steps of President Buhari to the right path- the path of security, respect for life and rights of the Nigeria people.
Restructure Nigeria, obey rule of law –CSOs tell Buhari
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nationwide coalition of civil society groups, led by the Nigeria National Summit Group (NNSG), yesterday embarked on peaceful protests to Foreign Embassies and High Commissions in the country to seek their interventions in urging the Federal Government to restructure the country and obey the rule of law. The protesters, which included lawyers led by Barrister Ikechukwu Ikeji were in their hundreds and kicked off their march from Allen Avenue, Ikeja, chanting songs and peacefully marched to the United States Embassy at the Walter Carrington Avenue, Victoria Island. They also displayed protest placards with different demands like “Stop Trials by Media”, Obey Court Order”, Respect Rule of Law” Stop Fulani Herdsmen”, “Implement National Conference Report”, “Restructure Nigeria Now”, among others. On the motive behind the protest, Convener of the Constitutional Rights Advocacy Initiative, CRAI, Barrister Ikechukwu Ikeji, said: “This is a peaceful protest to ask for the intervention of Embassies and High Commissions to help prevail on the present Federal Government to do for us two major things- first, restructure Nigeria, giving us a true fiscal federalism and not this kind of unitary system we are practising. Secondly, is for the President to learn to obey and respect rule of law.” On his part, National Secretary, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Ahmed Tijani Suleiman, said “We are calling for the restructuring of Nigeria because that is the only thing that will set us right. We think the last National Confab report will provide ample guidance for the restructuring.”
In her address, the Secretary General, Youths Arise for Change, Mrs. Vera OkeiShomefun, said that “Our differences as a nation need to be addressed. As we speak, the Federal Government is not doing anything about the incessant atrocities of Fulani herdsmen attacks. We are here to demand that the president should seriously consider implementing the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference report.” For Ayodele Akele of the Joint Action Front, the demand for self-determination is legitimate within the African Charter of Peoples Right, adding that, “every ethnic group has the right to determine whether they stay in a nation, and, I want to advice the president that the language of democracy is dialogue, not force.” Also speaking, Mr. Fiyebo Epereiti, a Niger Delta youth leader, raised the alarm at the proliferation of militia groups in the country, stressing that restructuring of the country through the report of the national conference will reduce violent engagements across the nation. “We want dialogue, especially on the issue of Niger Delta, which is the backbone of the country. We want accountability and the youths must be carried along in affairs of governance,” he said. Notable among the foreign missions that granted the protesters audience were those of Italy, Germany and the United States of America. At the United States Consulate, for example, the protesters were received by two US embassy officials, namely, Jessica Newl and Tim Doren who were given petition letters for onward transmission to the US President, through the US Ambassador in Nigeria.
Mr. Ikechukwu Ikeji presenting the letter to Ms Jessica New representing the Consular of the United State of America during the protest
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Body&Soul
Crossword puzzle
Money can’t buy everything
N
ick is a 10 year old boy. He was the only son to his parents. His father was a hardworking business man and he could hardly spend time with his son. Nick’s father would reach home after he slept, and leave home before he woke up, or sleep until he left for school. His father hardly had any time for Nick or his family. He could not accompany him or the family. Just like any other boy, Nick wanted to go outdoors with his father and have fun. One day, Nick was surprised to see his father at home in the evening. “Dad, it is a big surprise to see you at home”, Nick said. “Yes son, my meeting was cancelled and my next flight is delayed by 2 hours. So I’m at home”, his father replied. The conversation between Nick and father: Dad, may I please ask you a few questions? Yes, my dear son, please proceed. When will you be back? Tomorrow noon! Dad, how much do you earn a year? Dear, it’s a very big amount and you won’t be able to understand it. Ok dad, are you happy with the amount you earn? Yes my dear. I’m very happy, and in fact I’m planning to launch our new branch and a new business in a few months. Isn’t that great? Yes, dad. I’m happy to hear that.
So, do you have any other questions Nick? Yes, father, I do have one more question. Ask me then!
Dad, you don’t want to tell me how much you earn a year or a month. But can you tell me what you earn a day or even half a day? Nick, why are you asking this question? I have provided you with all the possible luxuries. No dad, you have always given the best to me, but please answer me. It would be really nice if you can tell me how much you earn in an hour? Nick, this is not fair and you should not be questioning your father about his income. Nick asked his mother to support him. Nick and his mom requested to answer his hourly income, if not the daily income. Nick’s father replied, it will be around N1000 per hour. Nick ran to his room upstairs, and came down with his piggy bank that contained his savings. Dad, I have N3000 in this box. Can you spare three hours with me? I want to go to the beach and have dinner with you tomorrow evening. Can you please mark this in your schedule? Nick’s father was speechless! Running after money makes children deprived of love and care from parents. Money can’t buy everything!
Gags: Teacher: Which one is closer,the sun or Europe? Johnny: Sun Teacher: Why? Johnny: We can see the sun all the time, but can’t see Europe. Teacher: Sam, did your dad help with your homework? Sam: No sir, he did it all by himself
eacher: Why are you late? T Student: Because of the sign on the road. Teacher: What type of sign? Student: The sign that said, “School Ahead, Go Slow.”! Math Teacher: Sara, what do you get when you subtract 897 from 1824 and add 176 and divide the answer by 3? Sara: A headache madam.
Celebration
Math pix
Happy birthday to Andrea Amiphany Ogon at 5! She loves eating rice and goat meat and her favourite colour is pink. She loves watching Winx on Nick Toons
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
News Churches should give back to society –Iluyomade p.32
Interview Restiveness will continue in Niger Delta if… Says Bishop Erumaka p.32
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sermon
The cage of mammon p.51
FAITH
Okogie: Buhari needs to be very careful The Archbishop Emeritus of Catholic Arch Diocese of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, has warned President Muhammadu Buhari to be mindful of his conduct in office. In this interview which was part of activities marking his 80th birthday and 50th year as a priest, Okogie wants the President to do everything possible to revamp the nation’s economy before things get out of hand. TAI ANYANWU reports
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Buhari’s scorecard one year in office So much has been said and written about the 16 years misrule of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Many more policy analysts will readily tell you that the problem with Nigeria originated right from independence in 1960. Be that as it may, the swearing in of President Muhammadu Buhari last year was perceived as a major milestone in the people’s quest for positive change and improvement in their quality of lives. But a year later, the people are still grumbling. Indeed, the hardship has even doubled. From available statistics, thousands of workers are being laid off every day; the value of the naira is falling drastically, while many states owe their workers many months of salaries. I want to make it clear here that I do not belong to any political party. I am only a concerned Nigeria who is saying it as he sees it. No amount of rhetoric or explanation can remove the fact that Nigerians are truly suffering. Buhari may mean well for the country, but so far, his actions and utterances have failed to help put food on the table of the average Nigerian. So, my advice to Mr President and his associates is this: do not take the goodwill that you enjoy from Nigerians for granted. Do all that is necessary to revamp the economy before things get out of hands. About Niger Delta militants Unfortunately, the militants are now backing in the trenches under different pseudonyms. Their recent attacks on oil facilities in the region are daily crippling the country’s capacity to produce oil optimally. The oil and gas pipelines ruptured in Warri West Local Government Area have also worsened the electricity generation plan of government. How long will this continue? Ours is a mono- product economy that relies solely on oil for our foreign exchange earnings. With the sorry state of our economy, we cannot at this crucial time afford a further breakdown of oil production in the Niger Delta. That will further place the country’s finance in a precarious situation. There is a popular saying that to jaw-jaw is better than to war-war. I am aware that the Niger Delta Avengers have reeled out a number of conditions to be met before they stop further attacks on oil installations. I am equally aware that
Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph © Daily Telegraph Publishing
God will intervene in our nation – Muoka
T
he General Overseer of Lord’s Chosen Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, has said no nation or human being can stop the current turmoil being experienced in Nigeria and other nations except God. Muoka made the declaration at a press briefing to acquaint journalists with the church’s forth coming two-day international crusade slated for June 11 and 12, at The Lord’s Chosen Revival Ground, Ijesha, Lagos. He said: “As we all are aware that for some time now, the activities of these enemies have increased in our nation and all over the world, killing, robbery, kidnapping, political turmoil, terrorism, economic recession, pestilence, diseases, poverty and insecurity abound. No nation or human beings can stop these end time activities beside the Almighty God unto whom every knee shall bow.” According to Muoka, God has decided to intervene through the crusade titled “And The Enemies Submitted,” to force the enemies of humanity to submission by His awesome power. Muoka explained that the crusade, which is part of the church’s evangelical campaign to meet its threefold visions and actualising the 10 billion souls mandate before the second coming of Jesus Christ, is aimed at winning great souls and preparing the saints for the coming of our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Muoka
Gowon to dedicate Bible translation Centre
F President Buhari has vowed to deal decisively with the militants. Only two days ago, the dailies reported that the military invaded Gbaramatu Kingdom believed to be the home town of a wanted ex militant, Government Ekpemupolo. While condemning the disruption of our oil facilities under any guise, I equally want to stress that the use of military force is not the best solution. It will only aggravate the situation. I therefore, want to plead with President Buhari to consider the use of dialogue as a major option in quelling the emerging crisis. Considering the high casualty rate and huge losses in our on-going fight against Boko Haram sect members, it would not be out of place to settle the Niger-
Delta issue without wasting human lives. Equally, I want to plead with the aggrieved militants to please shield their swords and allow for mediation. The continuous bombings are not only CONTINUED ON PAGE 34
Anyone found wanting should be made to face the music unencumbered. That is the only way the President can prove to all that he belongs to all and to no one!
ormer Head of State, Gen. General Yakabu Gowon (rtd), will on June 8, dedicate the ultra modern Bible Translation Centre, Regional Warehouse in Ibadan. The Deputy Manger, Media and Programmes, Benjamin Mordi, made the information available in a statement issued in Lagos during the week. He explained that he centre is also equipped with a library, which is open to the public for research, guest rooms and boosts of a more convenient and conducive work environment for translators. The Bible Society of Nigeria is a notfor-profit-making interdenominational Christian organisation that translates the Bible into local languages, publishes, distributes and raises funds for the Bible work. “So far we have the complete Bible in 24 Nigerian Languages while translation is ongoing in over 12 different Nigerian Languages at the cost 40m per language,” Mordi explained.
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faith
Roving Worshipper with Tai Anyanwu
It’s time to celebrate the ‘Emperor’ of Ikotun
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ometimes, we speak ill of people that we should actually eulogise; or castigate individuals ought to be held in high esteem and emulate. But those who relish in deliberate misrepresentation of other people’s character do it for different reasons. At times, they are intimidated and envious of the accomplishment of the personality to who their attacks are directed. Sometimes, it could be as a result of unhealthy rivalry and fear domination by a superior character or personality. At other times, outright conspiracy and selfish resolve to quench the light of an outstanding torch-bearer could be at the root of it all. However, these things are not new. In the days of Jesus Christ, the teachers of Jewish laws, the Pharisees, Sadducees and even the High Priest who officiate in the house of Jehovah God, conspired to cut short the life of the son of God. It is not as if they didn’t know that, Jesus is the Christ, sent of God to redeem first, the Jews, the Gentiles and indeed the entire humanity; from the operation of Satan the Devil. In fact, his birth was prophesied, a special and forerunner, John the Baptist, heralded his coming and when Jesus finally arrived at the scene, the Holy Spirit of God bore witness saying: ‘This is my begotten Son in whom I am well pleased; hear him.’ At the height of the conspiracy against the son of God, the Jews were given opportunity to choose between Jesus Christ and a notorious thief, who should be granted amnesty; they asked that the notorious thief be released to live among them and that their redeemer should be crucified. Their choice, one could be said is tantamount to Satanic gang-up to quench the light of righteousness which God himself predetermined confound the craft. Hence in life, Christ exhibited revolutionary character, love unsurpassed, humility that demystifies the arrogance of the mighty, and care that gave birth of a generation of children of God. And in death, Christ conquered all principalities and made a show of the ignorance of evil forces whose stock in trade is to malign, steal, destroy and kill everything that is right. But the foregoing is just for us to reflect upon. I can’t forget one day, that left the
Lekki axis of Lagos State just out of curiosity having been fed with lots of demeaning things about a servant of God who holds sway in Ikotun area of the state. I left home with loads of negative biases emanating from perception handed down to me by other people. Though right inside, I was petrified with fear that I might be turned to demon or bewitched when I enter into the man of god’s enclave; but my journalist instinct propelled me to move in spite of the all. The zeal to find out things for myself prevailed over my fear and choking traffic situation all the way from Lekki down to Ikotun. It was quite a bumpy ride, however, alighting at Synagogue Bus Stop, a refreshing air smack my face as I turned into smooth driveway boarded on onside by well tended lawn and on the other side by the magnificent worship arena of Synagogue church of All nations. At the entrance, a colony of police men practically relaxed under a shade without any attempt to stop or screen me. Introducing myself as a journalist, I explained that o would like to meet anyone in the media unit of the church. Go to gate four, one of the men said. To cut a long story short, I was ushered into the presence of Prophet T B Joshua after I explained that came to drop a letter introducing my newspaper so that I could cover the church’s activities. I never expected to see him almost effortlessly; I told him that and requested for an interview which he granted within two weeks. Above all, I got out of the place un-perturbed and since then I have never seen myself flying in my dream or fall sick. To confirm some of my thoughts, I did an opinion poll of sorts in Ikotun, his host community. Guess what, the residents and business owner regard T B Joshua as the ‘Emperor’ of Ikotun because he has greatly impacted on their economic well being. His charity works is proclaimed beyond the shores of Nigeria; and for this reason, over 5,000 expatriates will defy the insecurity in Nigeria to celebrate the 53th birthday of the man of God on June 12. Why won’t you celebrate him, if he truly deserves to be celebrated? Let’s think about these things.
Delegates from RCCG, teachers and pupils at the presentation of 2000 books and 10 shelves public held in Ikeja Local Government on Wednesday
Churches should give back to society –Iluyomade
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visit to public primaily, Pastor Idowu, Iluyomade, N15, ry schools in Lagos 625,000 worth of books and shelves State revealed a sorry were distributed to 500 public prisituation of poorly mary schools in Lagos State. equipped libraries. Our corPrecisely, the educational aids donated to the schools include general respondent was opportune to visit Awoyaya Primary School reference books such as encycloin Ibeju-Lekki local government pedia, dictionaries, biographies, area of the state. instructional aides and Lagos State The school library situated next curriculum books. to the Head Teacher’s office lay New Telegraph learnt that the book bare with a few weather-bitten donation and library equipment books stacked on the bare floor. programme is also part of series of Needless to say; there was not a activities marking the Apapa Famsingle book shelf in the sizeable ily 25th anniversary with the theme library. “Sustaining Change.” The school is one of the 500 At Ibeju Town, RCCG Providential public primary schools which the Head, Pastor Femi Obaweya, lead Apapa Family has undertaken to Church’s team consisting of Pastor equip as part of its Community Stella and Pastor Paul Nana, to the Social Responsibility progamme local school authority board where and way of giving back to its host they donated 10 cartons of educacommunity. tional support materials. Invariably, our correspondent’s The Provincial Pastor explained visitation was occasioned by that the local school board is exthe church’s invitation to cover pected to give one carton each to it’s book donation and library 10 public primarily schools in the equipment initiative intended locality. “The excel book donation is actuto bridge the gap in the reading ally designed to donate to the local culture in public primary schools in Lagos State. government educational authority Under the initiative, the Apapa who now has the responsibility to Family last Wednesday sent difnow assign them to the respective ferent delegations to various loschools I the locality,” he said. cal educational authorities in the After formal introductions, Pasin the state, who gave a face lift tor Femi officially handed over the to school libraries in the state. books to the educational secretary. The kind gesture, which was Responding, the educational secresimultaneously conveyed to all tary, and representatives of the Niprimary schools across 11 local gerian Union of Teachers, and community leaders expressed gratitude government areas in the state, is the reason there were smiles to the Apapa Family for their kind on the faces of pupils gesture and commitment are grateful to the to bettering the educaWe are church. tional standard in going to continue According to the state. with our signature project. the presiding The exercise Every year, we have a signature minister of was replicated project, which is a Community Social in other local RCCG City Responsibility (CSR) because we are government arof David Parstrong on CSR and we believe that ish, Victoria eas in the state. churches should be given back Island who is At Ikeja Local to the society,” Iluyomade Government, also the head of Apapa Fam2000 books and 10 added
shelves were presented to 10 public primary schools. In Eti-Osa Local Government, Jamatul Islamay primary school, IgboEfon, Army children primary school, Bonny Camp , Archbishop Tailor, Victoria Island, Epiphany Anglican primary school, Takwa Bay, Eroko Methodist primary school and 20 other public primary schools in the local government benefitted from the Apapa Family largess. On Lagos Island, 10 public primary schools also benefited;10 in Ifako Ijaye Local Government; Surulere Locl Government, seven; Kosefe, three schools; and 10 in ApapaLocal Government. Earlier, Iluyomade had expressed hope that the exercise would help to reinvigorate the fading reading culture in school. Explaining the Apapa Family’s commitment to supporting education in the state he added: “In the sphere of education, our project for this year is to equip 500 public primary school libraries in Lagos State in partnership with the state government. “It started last year and we have equipped about 300 schools and believing God that we are going to complete the remaining ones before the celebration,” he said. Iluyomade further explained that Apapa family should be seen for “what we stand for being a catalyst of change. We see people studying the family and what we have done in the past 25 years and how we have done it and using them as templates to excel in life.” According to him, the 25th anniversary of the family is significant because “God has kept and sustained us, the work and the vision for the past 25years.” “We are going to continue with our signature project. Every year, we have a signature project, which is a Community Social Responsibility (CSR) because we are strong on CSR and we believe that churches should be given back to the society,” Iluyomade added.
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faith interview
Why restiveness will continue in Niger Delta -Bishop Erumaka
The erudite General Overseer of Word-based Assembly, Okota, Lagos, Bishop Humphrey Erumaka in his characteristic fiery manner, takes a look at some current national issues in this no holds bared interview with Tai Anyanwu to go below that line. That is the challenge.
under control.
Some people are beginning to feel that government is not doing enough to check the escalation of Fulani herdsmen violence; what is your take on this? It is exactly what it is. Government is not doing enough that is part of what I said about three major things they would have looked at: fuel, the economy and security. The way things are going with the herdsmen appears like when they said Boko Haram has been defeated technically. It looks more like the Boko Haram people disbanded from war front and became herdsmen. The government should rise up strongly against it, to convince us that they are not surreptitiously behind it at any level. They should condemn it in substance and act accordingly, because one thing I know is that endurance has an elastic limit. There is a limit to which people can endure seeing their crops destroyed, seeing their land destroyed, seeing their daughters and wives raped. And violence is not just for one group of people. It is in all of us, but by the virtue of education and civility in society, everybody keeps it under check. However, when it comes to a point that it is one’s only way of defense, the escalating result may not be controlled. So, let the government do what is supposed to be done. In fact, it should be an offense to see a cattle rearer carrying AK.47.
What in your opinion would be the right approaching to solving resumed restiveness in the Niger Delta? Military option in the days of JTF failed till negotiation was embraced. As far as the cheating continues in Niger Delta, either money due to the public given to few individuals or nothing being given at all; or evidently, you get to these oil reach places what stops it looking like Abuja? You get to Abuja; you see paved roads and wonderful places. The money is taking from somewhere and that place cannot look likewise. Somebody may tell me; we gave the money to their leaders. Why would you give it to their leaders? Why wouldn’t you use it to do the right thing? The right thing must be done in the Niger Delta. If it is not done, it may not be today; it could be tomorrow, the restiveness will continue.
What more, that AK47 is having Nigerian military number? So, where is the sophisticated weapon of mass destruction coming from? Who gave it to them? These are strong things that must be looked into. It is part of security. Also, Nigeria is not the largest cattle rearing country in the world. That crude method of moving cattle from one place to the other is gone. They should establish ranches. I am even talking to Southerner and Easterners; we should establish ranches. If we go into establishing cow ranches, then we will show them how it can be done. And then we will provide the meat to our people. If that happens, then water will find its level.
How would you rate the performance of the Buhari-led Federal Government after one year after in office? Well, it is a difficult one because I know that the president or the present captains found themselves in a difficult situation which expectedly will take them some time to come out from the musky water. But some of us are beginning to feel that they are overstaying in the musky water. We had expected that by now, at least, one problem would have been solved; for instance, electricity, fuel or security. These are the major things troubling Nigeria right now. The rate at which things are happening are quite slow, but we still commend them into the hand of God, trusting that something should come up faster.
Do you agree with speculation among some Christian leaders that a hidden Islamic agenda is the real reason why some people in positions of authority have not done much to check the spread of Fulani herdsmen? As far as there is no strong voice of conWhat do you have to say about the impend- demnation sequel led with action, that ing devaluation of the naira? opinion is not farfetched. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing left of the naira to be devalued because What are Christian leaders doing to the hike in fuel price has already deval- prevent the actualization? Each ued the naira. The prices of things in the time, Christians are asked to market and all that, whatever you used pray, pray and pray. AssumN10.00 to do you, you can’t achieve right ing an army of herdsmen denow. It is a big problem. Any additional scended on your congregation pronouncement, as per devaluation of the with sophisticated weapons, naira, will even create more problems. It is will you ask the congregation just like the fuel situation, if they had left it to pray, run or do what? as it was then government doing whatever Well, the much we can say they could do, allow the market forces to now is that we are appealing to determine things, there are some people the government. Security matters who would have even sold cheaper than are security matters. The much we 145.00. But now that the hike in fuel price can say now is that we are appealing has been pronounced, nobody would want to the government to bring this situation
The public preaching bill sponsored at the Kaduna State House of Assembly has been in the news since, could you comment on that? A far as Nigeria remains a secular state where people are free to have freedom of worship, I think legislating that will be a futile exercise. The church will not accept it; and Kaduna is not a Muslim state. Then, I don’t have problem with a state governor doing something to minimize noise pollution because I have lived in a Christian environment where your house is surrounded with horn speakers and there are so many night activities, night clubs, and night vigils whatever. If that is the control, say we don’t want this level of noise at certain point in time; I think that has already been in existence. If it has to do with now if you want to preach you come and get a license. Who is going to issuing the license? Will a Muslim issue a Christian license to preach or will a Christian issue license to preach? I think that is overstretching the matter. Then the issue of grazing reserve, proposed by the federal government in every state, is another issue I would want you to look at here? The grazing bill is taking Nigeria backward. Like I said, there are better ways of raising cows now that is what all of us should support. Any other thing they are talking about should not be encouraged.
Military option in the days of JTF failed till negotiation was embraced.The right thing must be done in the Niger Delta. If it is not done, it may not be today; it could be tomorrow, the restiveness will continue
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faith
Okogie: Buhari needs to be very careful already gone. Just after another year, the race for 2019 will commence in earnest. What becomes of them then will be greatly decided by how well they are able to galvanise the nation out of its present predicament. We are watching.
CON T I N U E D FR O M PAG E 31
depleting the nation’s meagre resources, but they also pose great ecological disaster and grave danger for inhabitants to the oil-rich region. Herdsmen’s violence We are all too familiar with the Agatu killings and that of Nimbo in Enugu State. The loss of lives in any form is very sad, particularly if such lives are cut short in such tragic circumstances as the attacks by the herdsmen. Such barbaric acts only dehumanise us. Some have opined that the failure of the President to make a public pronouncement immediately the issue became a national discourse was borne out of his affinity with those concerned. That aside, I want to reiterate that it is the responsibility of government to safeguard the lives of its citizens. No life is more important than the other. The questions many are asking are: who provided the herdsmen with AK 47 weapons? Are the herdsmen truly Nigerians or an extension of the Boko Haram sect members particularly as global terrorist watch have listed them as number one terrorist list? However, I am glad with the outcome of the recent courtesy visit of the Catholic Bishops to the President during which he gave an express order to the law enforcement agents to quickly fish out the perpetuators of the dastardly acts and bring them to book. Such a move, if well executed, will go a long way to restore the people’s confidence in government. It will also send a potent signal to all of government’s is zero tolerance to lawlessness in any guise. In addition, if the identity and judicial trials of the perpetuators are made public, it will also assuage the grief of the affected communities in the knowledge that the justice has been done. But beyond all these, a lasting solution must be found to placate the herdsmen and refrain them from invading other people’s farm lands. Anti-graft war The past one year has seen the present administration making spirited efforts to recover looted funds and prosecute the offenders. Despite these, Nigeria’s perceived reputation as one of the most corrupt nations on earth was reiterated by David Cameron of Britain on the eve of an international parlay when he branded Nigeria as “fantastically corrupt”. The psychological impact of that statement made before Queen Elizabeth is still fresh in the minds of many of us. While it is true that corruption has become endemic in this country, I also want to stress unequivocally that there are still men and women of high integrity who have not sold their birth rights to the monster called corruption. We must, therefore, not shy away from telling the rest of the world, when the occasion arises, that there are still honest Nigerians among us. How can we best do this? By joining government to expose the corrupt and unrepentant elements amongst us, no matter their identity, tribe or religious inclinations. I want to commend the President for his commitment to cleaning the polity. There is also need for him to be more systematic in the fight so that even after he leaves office the structure in place will make it difficult for corruption to thrive as has always been the case. There have been complaints by members of the opposing party that the fight has been selective and only targeted at the PDP. The President must respond to this proactively by allowing the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to truly work independently, based on
The use of force is never the right approach to quell such agitation. As the father of all, let him do the needful by addressing the issues that led to the agitation in the first place
facts and figures at its disposal. Anyone found wanting should be made to face the music unencumbered. That is the only way the President can prove to all that “He belongs to all and to no one!” Biafra agitation Many of us, who witnessed the pogrom that is the Nigerian Civil War between 1967 and 1970, are yet to come to terms with the devastating effects that war could have on a society like ours. That is why it is imperative that we do not have another Civil War. God forbid. Mr. President should therefore do the needful by releasing Mr. Nnamdi Kanu as a sign that he is ready to dialogue with the group. He must remember that it is the right of any group to peacefully seek
for session if they feel marginalized in their present abode. The use of force is never the right approach to quell such agitation. As the father of all, let him do the needful by addressing the issues that led to the agitation in the first place. Nation’s economy No one knows it all. I feel that the present administration needs more technocrats to help it in its task of rebuilding the nation. The economy in particular needs the input of tested experts. There is no shame in seeking for help in order to formulate policies that would attract the much needed inflow of foreign investors that will shore up our economic fortunes. The President should borrow a leaf from past administrations who injected experienced hands that made all the difference and turned us into the investment port of choice in Africa. As it is, our economy is in shambles and needs urgent surgical operations. The task of building a viable nation is one that calls for the involvement of every one of us. Evil thrives when good persons stay aloof. We must, therefore, continue to hold our nation accountable. The days of impunity are over. We must prove to the international community that there are good people amongst us; that we are not all corrupt as some believe. We must call our leaders to order when they err and commend them when the need arise. And for the present administration, they must not forget that much is expected of them. One year is
Islamisation agenda I don’t know if you read our article, I think it was published by Guardian caption ‘We Are Watching.” This has been on since the time of OIC when Ibrahim Babangida stealthy tried to enrol Nigeria into that organisation. Then Christians and the Muslims met in Abuja. I was in charge of the Christian group and Professor Aminu and others were on the Muslim side. It was very tough. The long and short of it all is that IBB couldn’t even sleep according to John Shagaya who was the man going in and out. And he said they should end it up and that he only went there as an observer. It is not a new thing. They are only trying to force this regime to go into it; and I don’t think they will not succeed. One of us asked then: “You said that we are now just there as observers. But what does it really take to become a permanent member? One of them just got up and let the cat out of the bag and said well: ‘Your minister of petroleum must be Muslim, your minister of education must be Muslim and your minister of Foreign Affairs must be Muslim’; that once you have these three things what is left? So, that is why I said we are watching. Buhari’s commendation of Jonathan concession of defeat Truth cannot be hidden; it must be open. And truth is truth, universal anywhere you go to. That Buhari commended Goodluck Jonathan, and I remember one of the things the APC said about Jonathan during the campaigns, and I can remember what people are saying about him till today. Some of them are saying it as if he did nothing for Nigeria. Now coming from his (Buhari’s) own mouth, I think it is an open confession. And he too has to be very careful; he has to be very very careful because people are watching him. Some people are saying: Why can’t he take his inaugural speech and read, meditate on it and then start afresh? Or take up APC scheme or plan of work and see if he is following that. Where things got so bad is the struggle for ministerial post, everybody bringing his own list- eh! Please take at least one out of it. And it is time to satisfy everybody. That is the root cause of this mess we are in today. People want to lobby but a sensible leader will say ok put it down and then do his investigation and pick the most suitable hands. Look at the length of time it took before they appointed ministers. It was a shoddy job that is why it cannot come out immediately.
War with militants won’t work, Church tells FG Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti
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he Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion has urged the Federal Government to be tactical in handling militancy in the Niger Delta, especially the Niger Delta Avengers. The church, which spoke through a communiqué issued at the 6th Synod of the Diocese Ekiti West, held in Aramoko Ekiti, said being soft on militants was the only way to avoid further destruction of properties and facilities in the area.
The Synod equally condemned the N940m earmarked for grazing in the 2016 budget by the federal government, a move it said reflected discrimination and favoritism towards one tribe over other tribes. It recommended that government should instead encourage creation of private ranches and make incentives available for people engaging in agriculture instead of creating new grazing reserves. On the spate of recent killings of innocent individuals by the Fulani herdsmen, the Synod urged “the Federal Government to immediately bring these mindless killings
to a halt.” It further charged “parents, school authorities and even the church to continue to play active role in mentoring the youth and young children, leading to desirable decrease in moral decadence in the nation.” The communiqué read: “Synod enjoins government to immediately inject palliative measures into the economy as an immediate panacea for mitigating the severe hardship that the large masses of Nigerians are experiencing in the wake of the increase of the petroleum products, which has led to increase in price of virtually necessities.”
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Princess Cynthia Adeyemi finds love again E Jeniffer Obayuwana relishes great moment
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o say her life has been a roller coaster will not be far from the truth, at least going by what the lady at the centre stage has made the public believe of her. Growing up the daughter of man behind luxury goods outfit, Polo, John Obayuwana, Jeniffer was not devoid of all the trappings of a silver spoon kid. In addition, she has remained the apple of her father’s eye as the man has continually gone all out to make his girl comfortable. Like a typical roller coaster life, Jeni, as the beautiful lady is called, has become the executive director of her father’s company and she has no reason to lack anything but to dwell in opulence. Meanwhile, many were thinking that getting a life partner was going to be her headache as her rumoured romance with Koko master, D’Banj, was short lived. Whatever harrowing experience she may have had has since become a thing of the past as she has since found love in light skinned and handsome boss of Tilt Group, Peter Salah. And with her cousin, Itohan Wura, becoming the wife of Ooni of Ife, Jeniffer has stepped higher in status as she’s now regularly seen in the company of the queen. It was really a great moment for her to relish recently when she added a new year to her age and she celebrated it. In a very high spirit, Jeniffer hosted guests to a modest but classy get together where trappings of opulence were freely deployed all in honour of the birthday girl. With the presence of her caring father, loving partner, Peter, and her beautiful cousin, Queen Wura, among other guests, there was no dull moment for Jeni but a fun filled heart as she savoured the frenzy atmosphere.
do State-born light skinned and beautiful lady, who is the brain behind the long standing fashion concern, Unlimited Fashion, in Lagos, Princess Cynthia, remains an individual who needs little or no introduction. Her exploits on the social scene have established her as a society lady. However, she has for a while reduced her appearances at social gatherings, appearing at very necessary ones and events where she handles the planning since she’s also an event planner. Meanwhile, it has been discovered that the articulate mother of four has actually been channeling her attention to the raising of her kids and building her business. Princess, as she’s fondly called, shuttles between United States of America, where her children are schooling, to care for them, and work on business opportunities in the fashion world. As regards the thrust of this piece, it has remained an open secret that the Edo princess has long quit her marriage to live as a single mother. The Unlimited Fashion boss, it will be recall, gained attention of many people some years back when she was engaged in a messy fight with her blue blooded estranged hubby, Prince Kola Adeyemi. That quarrel eventually led to the breakup of the union that had produced four fruits. While the Oyo prince, Kola, has since moved on and settled with another woman, influential and stylish Cynthia has taken solace in the company of her children and excitement of her job even as she finds time to unwind too. However, if information at the disposal of Celeb Lounge is anything to go by, then the end may have come for the lonely days of the society lady as we can reveal that she has eventually found the arm of a man she could call her
High society honours Dapo Abiodun on birthday
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Fatai Owoseni catches social bug
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he tale of the number one cop in Centre of Excellence, Lagos State, Fatai Owoseni, aptly describes the coinage that reward of hard work is more work. Well- built and articulate officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Owoseni, having exhibited the stuff he’s made of and determination to positively stand out in discharging of his duties, the authorities, perhaps, had over the years, noticed his efficiency and tipped him as one of the finest officers. His expertise would eventually be needed as it came in handy where there was a need to nip in the bud, free operations of men of the underworld in Lagos State. Of course, Fatai, as the Commissioner of Police in the state along with his men has put in so much effort to get rid of criminals terrorising the state. What is clear is that so much result has been achieved with the assistance of the governor of the state, Ambode, that Lagos is now about 65 per cent crime free. It will amount to stating the obvious, saying this feat, his professionalism and regard for human right has endeared Owoseni to the people of the state and everyone wants to identify with him. And since all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, the Commissioner of Police, we can say, is fast catching the social bug as he now finds time to relax at gatherings where he’s invited. The amiable police boss has been sighted in a few social events in recent times.
own. Details of how she met and fell in love with the new man in her life are still sketchy but it can be revealed she’s happily settled with her man who was simply identified as Adeleke Akitoye. The relationship, it could be said, has gone beyond a child’s play as the pretty philanthropist has also jettisoned her maiden name, Andrew, which she reverted to when her marriage to Adeyemi broke to now settle and be presently known as Princess Cynthia Akitoye.
Tunde Badmus hits 70
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tunba Khamis Tunde Badmus might not be as loud as many other money bags in the land but certainly, the Osun State born business mogul can comfortably stand his own anywhere. Aside the fact that some people outside his domain would come to terms with his name based on the glamour that trailed his botched marriage to the younger sister of business man billionaire, Alhaji Razak Okoya, Wosila, and also that he’s a factor in Osun State politics, the celebration of the industrial icon when he recently clocked 70 will not be a surprise to those who have been following his activities. Otunba Badmus, out of his dedication to his creator, is also dedicated to service of humanity through which he has touched many lives globally. The Akayejo of Oshogbo land, whose knack for putting smiles on people’s faces knows no bound on, before, during and after his milestone birthday, has not ceased to receive congratulatory and goodwill messages from all over because he’s seen as one who deserves the celebration.
or brilliant and intelligent Ijebu, Ogun State born dude, Prince Dapo Abiodun, he could be said to have been there and done that. Meanwhile, that he has been through dark moments is as sure as day, while it’s without doubt that he’s also experienced high points too. As it’s earlier stated, Prince Dapo has had his fair share of bad times but on a general note as a business man, the founder of Heyden Petroleum has made himself successful business man of repute who many adore as their role model. He has also long delved into the political arena but has not been able to replicate what he’s been able to do in the business world on the political scene. However, what cannot be taken away from him is that he’s got so much goodwill and he’s very hopeful of brighter days ahead as a politician. Only cynics will doubt the connections of a man of Dapo’s clout. But a recent event did not only confirm how influential Dapo is, but how much he’s loved as well as the respect he commands among the high and mighty. The former governorship aspirant, days ago, clocked 56 years and what he experienced making the day a memorable one by flinging the gates of his Lagos home open was more than a mere celebration. It was a show of love by large numbers of who is who in the society who thronged his home to share in the joy of the day with the birthday boy. Among those who were on hand to felicitate with him were Governor Amosun of Ogun State; Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amechi; richest man in Africa, Aliko Dangote and Willy and Nkiru Anumudu, to mention a few. It will be needless to say it was a classy gathering where guests were treated to the best of meals, expensive drinks as well as good music.
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Here Beyond Cute celebrity couples Vanessa Okwara
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he red carpet is where you go to see the hottest celebs do their thing by showing off the latest fashion of the season. And sometimes, they come in pairs! Nollywood and Hollywood’s most beautiful couples showed their glitzy and glamorous sides as they flaunt both their romance and styles all over the red carpet. We see these couples display their love and fashion on the red carpet; making us fall in love with them all over again. Nothing melts our hearts more than to see celeb couple looking hopelessly in love on the red carpet. From Jay Z and his Queen Beyoncé, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, George and Amal Clooney; Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. In Nigeria we see Joke Silver and Olu Jacobs, Dakore and Olumide Akande; Gbenro and Osas Ajibade, Ik & Sonia Ogbonna and so many others. Often, these most talented stars have a knack for finding love with...other stars. These super celebrity couples’ style, influence and personalities have enriched and helped increase the ratings of the entertainment industry both here and abroad. These couples have a heavy presence in the industry, social circles and red carpets plus they never fail to make bold fashion statements whenever they step out at functions, be it alone or together. These power couples have the stage today because they make everything about and around them beautiful as they make stylish entrance on the red carpet in each other’s arms.
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Organise your fridge Biwom Iklaki
B
esides the look of your kitchen and pantry, another important place you want to pay attention to the arrangements and hygiene of is your refrigerator. This is where you keep your fresh foods, leftover foods, sauces, eggs, butter, milk, and in some cases, water. You need to keep it clean and free of germs and bacteria. This means clearing it of bad food and wiping it down with cleaning products as often as possible, once a week at the very least.
Another thing to pay attention to is the arrangement of the refrigerator. The coolest part should hold your meats and sausages and your eggs should be at the door closest to the coolest part. Don’t forget to make use of storage containers. To maximise the import of this tip, you should get containers with sturdy lids in the same colour. They do not necessarily have to come in the same size, but there should be a form of uniformity to keep things classy. For those who need to grab their lunch on the go when they
My friends think my fiancé is not good enough for me I’ve been dating my guy for three years now and he is really fond of my friends but on the other hand, my friends feel that he is not good enough because of his poor family background and not having a very good job compared to my banking job. He gets along with my circle of friends and always in his best behavior but they keep telling me I deserve someone better than him and that he is only with me for my money. I really love this guy and I feel comfortable with him but what my friends say about him keep bothering him and I don’t know if I should continue with the relationship Adaeze, Owerri Help: I want to dump my gilrfriend I have been dating this girl for six months now and we get along pretty well. The sex is great and I’m usually a womanizer but since I started dating her, I’ve not looked at another lady. But we started having issues
are leaving in the morning or lunch packs for your kids to take with them to school, this tip is for you. Choose a free day during the weekend for preparing all your meals for the week. Make two options of everything you will need to build your lunch; two carbohydrates, two proteins, two veggies and two leafy greens and two sauces to tie everything together. Wash, boil, chop and put them in different cans or bowls. In the morning, all you need to do is assemble into your lunch bowls and add the sauces, cheeses and nuts.
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recently when she started complaining about my habits. I am a smoker and I drink occasionally. She already knew all of this when we started our relationship and seemed okay with it but now she has been talking and irritating me with her petty talks about my smoking habits. She is a nice girls but I just can’t take it anymore. I feel trapped and I have lost my interest in the relationship. I know she means well but I hate it when someone sounds sanctimonious. Please give me a few suggestions on how to break up with her in a subtle way. Akin, Lagos. I am jealous of my wife I know I should be proud but I don’t like it that my
wife is more successful than I am. everytime my wife getsa promotion or achieves something good in life, I get jealous. I must instantly get an achievement which over shadows her own or else I will not be happy and this makes her uncomfortable. I do love my wife but I want to feel like the man of the house and not like someone she is feeding. every tme someone praises her at work or someone gave her some kind of compliment about her achievement I feel intimidated. I hate this mentality of mine! I want to change it. I know jealousy is the worst kind in a relationship. I definitely don’t want this. if anyone reads this, please suggest that I should do to overcome this. Osas, Benin
My name is Olayinka, 45 years old divorcee mother of one. I live and work in Lagos. I need a man between 50-55 years well travelled and self employed for a serious relationship-08080935086 Oluwakayode is my name from the south west. I am a businessman in Lagos in Christian 5ft.6 tall and dark in complexion widower. I need a God fearing christain woman employed or in business between 50-55 years-08153111081 My name is Ezekiel, 33 years old single and working in Lagos but from Cross Rivers state. I need a God fearing woman for friendship between 35-48 years old08028148960 I am Engr. Derek by name, 34 years old. I work with NNPC. I need a sweet girl or lady for serious relationship-20-40 years old-08133040832 My name is Frank, 33 years, Igbo tall fair, handsome and working class. I need a pretty girl who is also working class from any tribe and age is not a barrier-08185426072 My name is Elvis, 37 years old and lives in Abuja. I need an independent and matured woman aged between 34-54 years old that I can date.-07032234608 I am Chidinma, a 26years old Christian from Anambra State but living in Abuja. I need an educated and handsome Igbo guy between 30-35 years for a serious relationship.-08184202468 My name is Ade; I want to be linked up with a Lagos based working class lady between 40-50 years for marriage. She can be from any tribe but must be busty and dark-0818540747 Anthony is my name. I am from Delta State and a student of Delta State University. I need a girl of 20 years from Delta State for a relationship-07088089644
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Stop acting desperate for love!
oing by the desperate actions we see these days; especially by the ladies, one would think being single is a death sentence! They worry over why they’re stuck being single. They talk nonstop about men, love, relationships and always act available when a man as much as looks at them. They engage in all manner of sexual activities just to land a man in their fishing net. My dear sister, it is not a crime to be single in your 30s. That your close pals are getting married or are in serious relationships does not mean you have been left behind or that something is wrong with you. Quit going from one prayer house to the other where you can easily fall victim to fraudsters who parade themselves as men of God. Because you are desperate, you allow them to do all manner of unprintable things to your body, all in the bid to get you married as soon as possible. When you are desperate, you end up attracting only the wicked your way. Just like bees to honey, they can smell desperation all over you. Desperation often gives off a horrible scent that attracts only the people who want to take undue advantage of your solitude. They come close to you either to take your money or just to have sex with the promise that you’ll both get married as soon as possible. How do you stop this cycle? The only way to avoid looking desperate is to stop believing that you are; this is because a person will appear as desperate as they feel. The more fixated you are on finding love and obsessed about entering marriage, the more desperate you will appear for the whole world to see. To stop being desperate you have to end
I
the pattern of negative beliefs about yourself. You need to begin to believe that you have something wonderful to offer and that the person you’re “meant” to be with is actually out there. In other words, you need to begin to re-train your brain. So what is the ideal thing to do when you are single and you feel that age is no longer on your side? Shake off the beast in you called fear! Exchange fear for confidence in yourself that you will definitely meet your ideal partner one day. Send a message to all and sundry that you “want to” be in a relationship not that you’ve “got to”. Even if you hear your biological clock ticking, it need not tick loudly enough for every predator-male to hear it!
It is very important to understand that good marriage partners don’t just fall out of the sky and into your yard with your name pinned on them. Finding the right mate takes time, patience and effort. So use this time of being single to prepare yourself to become the kind of woman your ideal man will easily get attracted to. It is a time to think of YOU first. Don’t let peer pressure push you towards something you aren’t ready for. Use this period of singlehood to be the best you can be. Loneliness sucks, but it’s not the end of the world! Don’t focus on your loneliness but try to engage yourself in activities that will enhance and make you a much better person that will be appreciated by your mate;
Desperation often gives off a horrible scent that attracts only the people who want to take undue advantage of your solitude. They come close to you either to take your money or just to have sex with the promise that you’ll both get married as soon as possible
when he eventually shows up. It is also not a time to go on a pity party or act in desperation. Rather go on a self-development spree: improve your culinary skills that will thrill that man when he eventually comes into your life. You know what they say, that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? Learn new crafts like how to make hair, fashion designing, bead making or any other craft you wish. You can take up a second degree or an MBA class or involve yourself in laudable causes that will be of benefit to society. These will help take your mind off being single or feeling pressured by it. When he eventually shows up and I bet you he will because you have made efforts at becoming a better person; please don’t chase him away with your ‘desperado’ attitudes. You know exactly the type of attitude I’m talking about: you make frantic phone calls to him when you don’t hear from him in 24 hours. You ask a man you barely know just after two months into the relationship for reassurance he won’t leave you just when he’s trying to get to know you and your need to know “where things are going” after a few dates. All these attitudes put a man off. Also, move slowly with a potential new dating partner. Don’t jump into a sexual relationship before you know who that person is on the inside. Don’t rush the relationship to the next level. By using a sensible approach to dating and not rushing yourself, you’ll find that you have better results. This isn’t to say that you should simply sit at home waiting for him to show up. You still have to put yourself out there and take calculated risks if you want the best rewards. I wish you all the best!
Suddenly, everyone is an expert on everything
n a short while, the internet will be proclaimed the greatest invention in the world of science and it won’t just be for its material worth, but mainly for its social impact. For, in the history of man, there has never been a time that the world is proliferated by social intellectuals who feel a need to impose their opinions on others as it is now. Not even Swiss linguist and theorist, Ferdinand De Saussure, who theorised on the arbitrariness of the signifier could have predicted a time when everyone will be an expert on everything and profess such expertise with full confidence and like I said, it is all down to the internet. We can now search any subject on the internet and become an authority on it in a space of seconds and then go on social media, armed with bad grammar and syntax and unleash our authorial voice on the world, it is that easy. This is a trend that is threatening serious journalism and actually forcing the way scholars approach media studies to change, but it is our present reality and picking out an expert is becoming an expert job on its own. Let us consider three recent examples to show this point. I love my Biology in school, but in all my years of studying human and animal anatomy, I never knew that there was such a vast amount of people who knew how the body and mind of a gorilla works until a gorilla in Cincinnati zoo, Harambe, was shot dead in order to protect a baby. Analysis flew in from all directions on social media. Why didn’t they use a tranquiliser to neutralise him? (Eh, it would have taken a while and the baby could have been hurt). Why did the woman allow her baby drop into the gorilla enclave? (The zoo wanted to allow a closer proximity to the animals and lowered bar-
riers, plus, we are all humans and prone to errors). What training was given to the zoo keepers that they did not consider all options before killing a very peaceful animal? (He weighs over 350 Pounds and posed a danger to a baby). I have seen from the ludicrous to absolute crazy analysis. Everyone had an ‘expert’ opinion on running a zoo and animal psychology that I am beginning to wonder if we have not taken cyber freedom too far. I mean, someone must start regulating the thoughts of people. I am not an expert on zoo keeping, but certainly there
is enough advice out there on the internet via social media that you probably do not need mine. Well, if everybody knows something about Biology and zoo keeping, then I guess it’s no use complaining about the number of political economists that are currently on social media commending, condemning or condoning the present political administration in Nigeria. The one-year anniversary of the current administration turned everyone I knew into an ‘expert’ political analyst. Why do we depend so much on oil when we
Everyone has got an opinion and those opinions are sacred facts that the government is not considering and the fact that government is not considering it is the reason for the current state of the Nigeria economy. The problem is, if the government were to consider the number of suggestions out there on a daily basis, they will need more that 20 years and I don’t think they have tha
could explore the possibilities of other mineral resources such as gold in Ilesha? (I kind of agree with this one). What has happened to all the promises made in the last year and why is the government not doing anything to address the problems? (I am not in government and so do not have an answer) Why are ministers sleeping on buses when they should be at work looking for solution to Nigeria’s problem? Does it not show a lack of commitment to the job of nation building? (Again, I don’t know). Everyone has got an opinion and those opinions are sacred facts that the government is not considering and the fact that government is not considering it is the reason for the current state of the Nigeria economy. The problem is, if the government were to consider the number of suggestions out there on a daily basis, they will need more that 20 years and I don’t think they have that. My goodness, I even saw a suggestion from a classmate of mine who could barely add correctly in my secondary school days. Thank goodness the government is not listening to all of them. Then, we come to an area where everyone is an expert and knows what is best. An area where the appointed man is always wrong or just lucky when he gets it right; football. With the current vacancy in the coaching seat of Nigeria, people are coming up with names and strategy to follow for Nigeria to return to winning ways. Nigeria is a country with 130 million football experts that I do not envy the people at Nigerian Football Federation who have to chose only one. How do they even begin the search? However, they need to make a decision before it is too late. And to all my social media ‘experts’ on everything, maybe there is, indeed, a time to be silent.
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drapes
rly orn ght; ood nes, ally
ver his hat
mtfit ro-
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016
fessional look that you desire. Those statement pieces that are not so work appropriate can be paired with a blazer to make it work for your office. So get one with the perfect fit. Not everyone wears trousers, but if you do, get one that fits you perfectly. Whether it’s a high-waisted trousers or a low waist, get one with the appropriate length and fit. You can’t go wrong with these. Always bear in mind that it’s a work place, so decency is the watch word. Just always remember to consider the dress code of your office and dress accordingly.
Multipurpose essential oils Biwom Iklaki
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ssential oils are very useful to those in pursuit of beauty, calm mind, joint aches, digestive health and great smells. All essential oils are made up of various chemical compositions and research into these components and their uses are ongoing and even growing in recent times. It is absolutely important to use these oils in their most natural states! Adulterated essential oils are not only less effective, they could be potentially dangerous. They are highly concentrated oils and must be diluted with carrier oils (olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, shea butter, waxes, etc) or you will end up with a very unhappy skin. Because they are minuscule in molecular size, which means they are easily absorbed by the skin, it makes them the perfect ingredient for beauty, therapeutic as well as household uses. Understanding your oils will help you get the most out of them, so here are a few: For skin and hair: To get a youthful glow, soft supple skin, reverse and slow down the signs of ageing as well as healthy hair, what you need are lavender, frankincense, rosemary, birch, eucalyptus, peppermint and ylang ylang essential oils, etc. For relaxation: Lavender oil, chamomile, dill, and sandalwood, vetiver and ylang ylang Caution: Pregnant women in their first trimester must avoid the use of essential oils totally, while those above their trimester must stay away from the following: Aniseed, cedar wood, chamomile, cinnamon, clary sage, clove, ginger, jasmine, lemon, nutmeg, r o s e m a r y, sage (this is only a partial list of some of the more common essential oils
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Body&Soul
Classy sunglasses
Olamide Talented rapper
Vanessa Okwara
O Vanessa Okwara
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ith global warming on the increase all over the world and the sun rays hitting the earth with so much heat; it is not a bad idea to get a pair of sunglasses. Sunglasses are no longer just a means of protecting our eyes from UV rays, but an indispensable accessory for the man of all seasons and all occasions. Sunglasses help protect the eyes from ultra violet rays of the sun and at the same time make you look smart and upscale. They are one of the coolest accessories you can have in your wardrobe. When it comes to accessories generally, men have limited options unlike the women folk but when it comes to sunglasses, guys also have the same collections at their disposal. So you can choose a pair of cool and elegant glasses from the best sunglasses brands.
When purchasing sunglasses, the price of the frames play an important role in helping you choose the type you want to adorn. It is important to stay within your budget and find the frames you want. Of course, one does not have to break the bank to get a pair; but once in a while, it’s good to invest in expensive designer labels from major international designers in their 2016 collections, including Giorgio Armani, Prada and Dolce & Gabbana. You will also find the classic styles with new colours and details from Rayban and Carrera, as well as Tom Ford’s now legendary shield models. The best part about owning a quality pair of shades is that you can sport them on all occasions, they never go out of fashion.
lamide Adedeji popularly called Badoo is a talented music rapper. He was born on March 15th 1989 in Bariga, Lagos State among six siblings. He attended both primary and secondary school Lagos but for his tertiary education, Olamide attented Tai Solarin Univerisity of Education where he studied Mass Communication as a part time student. His professional music career began in 2010 with the release of his first single, ‘Eni Duro’ which was released under Coded Tunes Records. The song received wide critical acclaim and instantly shot Olamide to limelight. He released his debut album titled ‘Rasodi’ in 2011 which was an instant success. He went on in 2012 to release his second album titled YBNL, which is also the name of his record label. Songs from his latest album titled ‘Badest guy ever liveth’ virtually became a street anthem. The Nigerian rapper, whose lyrics are majorly in his native tongue Yoruba, made it big when he signed a deal for luxury vodka Ciroc. The deal makes Olamide the company’s first Nigerian ambassador putting him amongst other international representatives like Rick Ross and French Montana. Olamide also has a deal with telecoms giant, Etisalat. Speaking about his major influences to music, Olamide mentioned American rapper Jay-Z as one of them. He says he owes a lot of gratitude to his producer ID Cabasa. According to him, his talent was recognized by another famous musician, D’banj, who wanted to sign him on his record label. On his personal life, Olamide has pet dogs, a child and is still with his longtime girlfriend, Aishat Suleiman. Olamide has been nominated for several national and international awards and he won in most of them including the artistes of the year awards. His fashion sense is synonymous with most rappers. He favours jeans, T-shirts, sunglasses and expensive jewels like rings and chains.
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RazzleDazzle
Body&Soul Abiola Alaba Peters
with
08062622328 abiolaalabapeters@rockmail.com
Annie Idibia indicted for provocative comments on 2face babymama E
arlier in the week, Annie Idibia took to her IG page to share her thoughts on how child abuse could result from situations where separated parents and Ex-lovers stress one another over seeing their children. She then gave a shout-out to Sumbo Adeoye, the mother of two of 2baba’s sons, for being a great woman. It turns out the post was actually for a reason. Eniola Titiloye, a sister to 2face’s babymama and mother of his three kids, Pero Adeniyi, clapped back at Annie for the post. According to Eniola, Annie is jealous that 2face ‘got away from her claws’ to throw a birthday party for his daughter with Pero. 2face travelled to the United States of America to see his kids and this is allegedly his first visit to them in over two years. Eniola purported that Annie harasses Pero with text messages anytime 2face tries to make contact with their kids and wants to cut them off from him. That even 2face has to hide to contact them in order not to face her anger. Annie responded to the allegations by asking her to get off her Instagram page but Eniola continued to fire back, while threatening to expose more of Annie’s dirty secrets.
Ibadan stands still for Yemi Blaq’s birthday
Y Mike Ezuruonye cracks Africa’s ribs with ‘Brother Jekwu’
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n his new movie, Mike Ezuruonye is Brother Jekwu, a village champion with ‘earthquake English’ as he puts it. It’s for this comical role that this Nollywood royalty is now in Kenya as Brother Jekwu is pulled from his familiar village in Naija and transported to Kenya to work for a nononsense Lady Boss former Miss Kenya Juliet Ochieng that poisons traitors at the dinner table. A brainchild between Mike and Juliet, ‘Brother Jekwu’ merges Kenya and Nigeria in an attempt to showcase each country’s role and uniqueness in African storytelling. Also starring alongside Mike is another Nollywood star Angela Okorie and several other Kenyan actors, including socialite and first-time actor Huddah Monroe. When we pulled him away for an interview, he quickly transforms into the sophisticated and knowledgeable man he is; leaving no traces of the country pumpkin he just embodied on set. Even with the milestones he’s made as an actor, Mike is proud that he can share the beauty and the richness of Africa with the world through his craft. Recently, he was nominated for the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards as Best Actor in a Drama for his role in ‘Breathless’. ‘Breathless’ will be released in Cinemas July 1st, 2016.
emi Olatunji, popularly called Yemi Blaq, turned a year older on Thursday, May 19th, 2016. The actor is the brand ambassador of Gulder, the premium lager beer from Nigerian Breweries Plc and they were on hand to throw a big birthday bash for him. The birthday ceremony took place last week with his colleagues, friends and officials of Nigerian Breweries during the Nollywood Beer Academy, sponsored by Nigerian Breweries Plc, in Ibadan, Oyo State. Edem Vindah, Corporate Media/Brand PR Manager, NB Plc, explained that the brand is proud of Yemi Blaq because he represents Gulder’s ideals of the ‘real man who is responsible, hardworking, demonstrates leadership and respect for others.’ Blaq, who became a Gulder brand ambassador last year, came into the movie industry in 2005. He has featured in over 250 films and he is seen as a hard working movie producer and one of the most famous in Nollywood. Yemi believes he was one of the lucky ones because he got into the industry when everyone said it was a bit tough. He was in it for about five or six months auditioning for roles, and talking to people for opportunities. Then he ran into a really large big audition which turned out to be a grand encounter. ‘Lost to Lust’ was the movie that gave him the breakthrough, being his first lead role movie with Mercy Johnson. “It came out successful and since then every director and producer wants me to work for them. Because in the industry, if you are good, people tend to look for you, to utilize your talent” he said.
Victoria Kimani announces debut album, ‘Safari’
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ince putting pen to paper on a deal with Chocolate City in 2012, not much has been seen of Kenyan songstress Victoria Kimani in the music industry. The singer has now announced the release of her first full studio album after several hit-and-miss singles. In a recent interview, the singer revealed the title of her soon-to-bereleased album as ‘Safari’, with a release date scheduled for the third quarter of the year. “My album is called Safari which is Swahili for a journey or to travel. Musically, ascetically, fashion wise and sound wise, they are all in sync with my life experiences through travel; I found myself on Safari. The project literally sums up my life. This is my first album ever, and I’m so hyped about it. I needed people to understand the type of artist that I am, so I released several singles in several different regions that ended up being hits,” she disclosed.
AFRIMA supports intellectual property rights
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takeholders and artistes in the creative/entertainment industry will heave a sigh of relief as the African Union is set to implement policies of its Pan-African Intellectual Property Organization. This was disclosed recently by the Head of Culture Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins, during the AUC/AFRIMA Joint conference which held in Banjul, Gambia to discuss and proffer solutions to the challenges facing the African Music Industry. The 26th Assembly of the African Union established PAIPO in January 2016. The conference, which was part of activities marking the 10th anniversary of the AU Youth Charter, had the theme, ‘Using Music, Culture and Entertainment as tools for a new Africa’. Martins eulogised the activities of AFRIMA and its stance on promoting culture through music and recognition of talents on the continent. “The African Union Commission cherishes the collaboration it has with Pan-African Cultural Institutions like AFRIMA since they partner with the AU Member States in the implementation of continental policies in this case in the areas of arts, culture and heritage. “Our collaboration with AFRIMA started in 2014. And we have since witnessed two editions of the All Africa Music Awards (in 2014 and 2015) events which recognised the value of African Artistes and promoted African Music both in the continent and internationally. The event showcases the potential of African Music in contributing to continental development through decent job creation for the youthful population of the continent,” she said.
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Body&Soul
Banky W is my mentor –Niyola
Eniola Akinbo, professionally known by her stage name, Niyola, is a Nigerian recording artiste, singer, songwriter and performer. Music for her started 16 years ago when she realised her talent at a tender age. The sultry artiste began her professional music career in 2005 and was briefly affiliated with eLDee’s Trybe’s Records. The ‘Toh Bad’ crooner, who is the first lady of Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) Records, speaks with ABIOLA ALABA PETERS about her career and love life What’s been happening to Niyola? I am an artiste, performing music, making music, shooting videos. I have been busy working. How has it been, being a part of EME? It’s been a great experience. It’s been a great journey; it has not been smooth, but as you know, itself is not a smooth one. There have been the ups and down but above all, it’s been a wonderful journey. I would say I am privileged to still be in EME. What do you have to say about Banky W as a person and as a boss? Banky is an amazing person. He is such a great person, very intelligent and creative. He knows what he knows, if you know what I mean. He is a very blessed person and I enjoy working with him. He is somebody to look up to; he is more of a mentor to me and as a boss, he is everything you want to ask for. What inspires your kind of songs? Life in general, and I always say that life is basically about love, money, man, woman, family or love for God. I think life is all about love, and that is what inspires my music; things that I experienced personally or indirectly through people or things that I perceive.
When it comes to fashion, how would you describe your taste? When it comes to fashion, I don’t like it too much. I like to keep it very simple; I believe that makes it more fashionable. I always like to be comfortable, no matter what I wear; I don’t follow trends, I wear what I want, I wear what I feel I look good in. Who are the artistes you grew up listening to? I grew up listening to great artistes like Whitney Houston, Richard Pharell, Michael Bolton, Maria Carey, Alicia Keys. I listened to a lot of old music because my parents were kind of old and I have older ones back home. I love King Sunny Ade, Onyeka Onwenu, country music and others great songs. Those were the kind of music I listened to while growing up and I think it kind of formed my taste in music today. Three items you can’t do without in your handbag? My sunglasses, my lip gloss and my sanitizer. How soon are we expecting an album? All I can say is this year, sometimes this year.
decide you are done with all his negative actions and abuse, and that was what the song was about. Sometimes, we women get too vulnerable and we do things. Even though we are the ones at the receiving end, we don’t know how to shake it off and just move on. So that’s where that came from, it wasn’t a personal experience. Let us into your love life. It’s my love life. Do you have a man? It’s my love life, so I am just going to keep it to myself. Just give a yes or no, do you have a ma n? I don’t have to, I don’t want to. Your favourite perfume and make up? I’m really just a simple person when it comes to make up, just give me my mascara, my lip gloss and I’m all set. For my favourite perfume, I have quite a number of them, but it will be Tom Ford. What’s your take on gender equity bill? First of all, I don’t understand the segregation, what is the difference between man and a woman? I don’t understand why the man has to get special preference; I have never been able to understand this, so I definitely do have a problem with that. I don’t understand why. Do the men have two heads? Do they have four arms? What’s the difference? So even if anybody wants to exert any authority, it should be in your home, you don’t bring it to the general public and then place these rules on people, you exert this authorities in your homes. What is your watchword? My watchword is ‘Time is Truth’. There’s nothing that time cannot face, there’s time for everything.
Do you mind giving us the title of the album? Right now, I have a working title which is ‘YOURS TRULY’ but I haven’t decided yet if that is what I am going to go with.
Five years from now, where do you see yourself? I definitely see myself making an impact globally, I see myself empowering people. One of the things I love to do is to give power to people.I love to empower people in my capacity. Mentor a lot of people, giving them opportunities and platform to discover who they are.
Was your ‘GO ON’ song a personal experience? No! It’s not something I experienced personally. I just wanted to do a break up song that will represent women from their perspective. Just saying you know what, you can
What do you say your fans and followers? To my fans and followers, I say put God first, trust God’s timing for your life and be the best you can be, I love you.
Give us likely names we will hear on the album? You will find that out when the time is right.
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
News
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Interview
Auto beat
Umeofia: Tomatoes will hit N70, 000 a basket next year
Ford wins best small engine award a 5th time p.47
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Business
Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business
paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph
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Interbank rate eases on ample liquidity
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L-R: Head, Business Development, Serve Consulting Ltd, Mr. Akinsanya Olubisi; Assistant Director, CBN, Rosemary Pj-Akpan, Vice President, Citibank Nigeria Ltd, Chika Sanni; Former Executive Secretary, Financial Markets Dealers Association (Fmda), Mr. Wale Abe and Senior Vice President, Financial Market Dealers, Mr. Dipo Odeyemi, during a seminar on issues and challenges of treasury automation in Lagos PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE
Analysts: Market-based policies, peace in Niger-Delta will revive economy
Kemi Adeosun
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Paul Ogbuokiri he Nigerian economy is at the verge of going into recession. The economy contracted in the first quarter by 0.4 per cent, the first decline since 2004. If (President Muhammadu) Buhari doesn’t alter his stance on the naira and loosen the restrictions used to defend its peg to the dollar, output will probably sink further, according to Mark Bohlund, an Africa economist with Bloomberg Intelligence in London. “The Nigerian economy is at high risk of experiencing its first
full-year recession since 1987,” Bohlund said. An improvement next year depends on security being restored in the oil-rich Niger-Delta region and “a shift toward more marketbased economic policy.” “There’s a sense of exasperation among investors,” said Ronak Gopaldas, a Johannesburg-based analyst at Rand Merchant Bank. “There’s still a level of goodwill toward Buhari and his government, but it’s dissipating. The man on the street is really struggling.” But President Buhari in his May Day speech gave the impression that he is still opposed to devaluation. “We resolved to keep the naira steady, as in the past, devaluation had done dreadful harm to the Nigerian economy.” But he also added: “I supported the monetary authority’s decision to ensure alignment between monetary policy and fiscal policy. We shall keep a close look on how the recent measures affect the naira and the economy.” Ostensibly in an effort to clarify the President’s remarks, his spokesman, Mallam Garuba Shehu in an NTA interview on Monday, stated that Buhari had given the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) a leeway to imple-
ment a more flexible currency regime. CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele said on May 24 policy makers were considering a two-tier currency system, with the naira trading nearer a market-related level in the interbank market while the Central Bank would continue to allocate dollars to strategic industries at a fixed rate. He said the new system would be implemented “in the coming days.” A Money Manager at Aberdeen Asset Management Plc, Kelvin Daly said: “The authorities are acknowledging they need to do something,” Daly, whose company sold all its Nigerian government debt in response to currency controls, told Bloomberg on Tuesday.
How do you say you don’t believe in devaluation if that is what will create a fair price or bring about a marketdetermined rate?
He added: “They realise this policy is doomed.” It was an “admission of the inevitable failure of the policy, which created a black market economy,” said Kingsley Moghalu, a former CBN deputy governor who now teaches at Tufts University in Boston. “The exchange-rate policy contributed quite significantly to creating a recessionary situation. It hit manufacturers, who could not access forex. It has created unemployment.” The economy is so weak that Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun says officials probably won’t be able to collect enough taxes to meet the revenue target in this year’s record N6.1 trillion budget, which was only passed last month after senators said Buhari’s team made mistakes in the first version sent to them. Also, Bloomberg quoted the Head of Research at Sterling Capital Markets Ltd; Sewa Wusu as saying that Buhari’s comments are contradictory. “How do you say you don’t believe in devaluation if that is what will create a fair price or bring about a market-determined rate? “The government should CO N T I N U E D O N PAGE 44
igeria’s overnight interbank rate fell to an average of 3 per cent for overnight lending on Friday, down from 5 per cent on ample liquidity from budgetary allocations to government agencies. Nigeria distributes money from oil revenue to its three tiers of government from a centrally held account, which provides liquidity for the banking sector and eases the cost of borrowing among banks. Traders said the Central Bank withdrew debt notes initially offered at an open market operation (OMO) owing to a disagreement on yield levels because the market want higher returns than what the bank was willing to offer. “Cost of borrowing among banks fell this week because there was no major cash outflow from the system apart from the N33 billion debited for cash reserves ratio on Thursday,” one dealer said. Total banking system liquidity stood at N408.25 billion ($2.06 billion) on Friday, up from N277 billion last week, dealers said. The central bank sold a total of N143.85 billion in short-dated treasury bills at an auction on Wednesday, but no cash left the system because the same amount of treasury bills also matured, resulting in a rollover. “We expect interbank rate to inch up slightly next week as banks make deposits for dollar purchase at the central bank weekly sale,” another dealer said.
Nigeria Teleco grows despite economic
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rowth in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry picked up in the three months through March even as the economy shrunk for the first time in more than a decade, according to a government report. Telecommunications expanded 5 per cent in the first quarter, compared with 3.5 per cent in the three months trough December, and contributed 8.8 per cent to gross domestic product, the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics said in a report on Thursday. The economy contracted by 0.4 per cent in the period, the statistics office said two weeks ago. Nigerian mobile-phone customer numbers have grown rapidly over the past ten years as handsets became more affordable and data services increased. Africa’s most populous country had 151 million subscribers at the end of last year, up from 19.5 million in 2005, according to the report. “With the oil sector having really crashed over the last months, telecoms should be outperforming the other sectors,” Amy Cameron, head ICT analyst at BMI Research in London, told Bloomberg. “Consumers are still using these services and growth continues, even if it’s harder.” While MTN Group Ltd. has been the fastest-growing mobile operator in the country, the Johannesburg-based company has lost ground since August 2015, when the Nigerian telecommunications regulator started to order it to disconnect subscribers who were unregistered. Bharti Airtel Ltd.’s local unit grew its customer base by 18 per cent to 34 million in the year through March and Lagos-based Globacom Ltd. expanded by 17 per cent to 35 million, the report showed.
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Business
Sunlight rounds off Alarambara Radio Drama
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L-R: Marketing Manager, Peak, Dolapo Otegbayi; Chef, Niyi William; Representative of Yaba College of Technology Secondary School/ the winner of the cooking competition, Esther Adeniyi; Senior Brand Manager, Peak, Omolara Banjoko; and Public Health Physician, LASUTH, Dr. Elo Ukatu, during the Friesland Campina (Peak Milk) World Milk Day in Lagos . PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI
Africapractice lauds CBN on flexible forex policy
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fricapractice, a Risk Management and Industry Adviser, said that whatever the foreign exchange framework the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) unveils in the next few days/weeks is a positive step in the right direction for the economy. It noted in a report on Tuesday that the anniversary month of President Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency (May) has been eventful. The 2016 budget was signed, petrol subsidies removed, and now Nigeria appears to be moving towards a more flexible FX policy. The MPC announced it
will introduce greater flexibility in the interbank FX market, while retaining a small window for critical transactions. The central bank has been mandated by the MPC to work out modalities of achieving a more flexible interbank FX market. It said that the naira may be allowed to fully float on the interbank market, saying the view is informed by the partial deregulation of petrol prices on May 11, and Nigeria’s history of managing the FX rate. “ The ideal scenario would be for the central bank to let the market set the new interbank FX rate without restriction, and in so doing allow
for an appropriate level to be found. We think this is somewhere between the fair values suggested by our two real effective exchange rate models – NGN255/$1 and the longer dated one, at NGN315/$1. At this new ‘price’ for the naira, demand and supply would be brought into equilibrium through a decrease in FX demand (rationing effect) and increase in FX supply (the incentive effect). This would imply short-term pain, not least because of the inflationary effect, and high interest rates. But we believe decent growth would return, particularly given the low base effect,” it stated. It also said that thee new
flexible rate will be managed, saying that it believes that the Central Bank may set a ceiling for the interbank FX rate, or specify a band within which the naira may trade. “If the ceiling or band proves to be too low, say NGN240/$1, only limited FX liquidity will come into this market, and the interbank FX rate would soon hit the ceiling, or weak end of the band. And the opportunity for a parallel FX market rate that diverges from the interbank rate would be sustained, implying three exchange rates. Inflation would also rise in this scenario, but growth would be weaker,” it stressed.
Market-based policies, peace in Niger-Delta will revive economy CON TINUED FR O M PAGE 43
come out clearly and say what it wants,” he added. Foreign direct investment into Nigeria was at the lowest last year since the 2007-08 global financial crisis, and Citigroup Inc. said deals have ground to a halt. Capital controls prompted JPMorgan Chase & Co. in September to kick Nigeria out of its local-currency emerging-market bond indexes, tracked by more than $200 billion of funds. Foreign reserves dwindled as the central bank defended the peg, while foreign investors, fearing devaluation, sold Nigerian stocks and bonds. Bond Losses
This year, Nigeria’s localbond yields have climbed 276 basis points to 13.46 per cent, leaving them as the only such securities among 31 emerging markets tracked by Bloomberg to make losses. Electricity output has plunged to about a 30th of that of South Africa, sub-Saharan Africa’s second-biggest economy, as attacks on pipelines cut supplies of natural gas to power plants. When Buhari beat then President Goodluck Jonathan in the first election victory by an opposition candidate, U.S. President Barack Obama’s administration called it an “historic step for Nigeria and Africa.”
Boko Haram The president has been applauded by investors for beating back Boko Haram and trying to overhaul graft-ridden institutions, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Yet they have been left bemused by his economic policies. Businesses are struggling to operate as the Central Bank, whose reserves have fallen to a more than 10year low, runs out of the dollars they need to import raw materials and equipment. Many are forced to turn to the black market, where the naira’s value has plunged to around 350 per dollar. That has pushed the inflation rate to 13.7 per
cent, the highest in almost six years. Currency Squeeze US carrier United Airlines said would it stop flying to Nigeria this month, in part because of the hard-currency squeeze, and British Airways said it may follow suit. Foreign airlines have the naira-equivalent of $575 million trapped in the country that they can’t repatriate, according to the International Air Traffic Association (IATA). The Africa president of Unilever, whose Nigerian unit has seen its shares drop 29 per cent since Buhari became president, has said Nigeria’s currency policy is “very insane.”
onsumers and retailers of Sunlight 2-in-1 detergent from South-West Nigeria were treated to moments of fun, as Sunlight Detergent wrapped up season 2 of its Alarambara Radio Drama series with the Ara Otun Owambe party. The event featured an episode re-enactment by Mosun Filani (Sisi Oge) and the cast of Alarambara and a fashion parade tagged “Gbe Simi Leti” contested by 15 attendees. Welcoming participants, Regional Manager, West, Unilever, Leye Adeniyi, disclosed that the importance of women in the development of the society informed Unilever’s decision to start a radio drama series aimed at educating and entertaining women. “Women from different backgrounds share certain common concerns, including the need to balance work and family life. Our understanding of women’s needs and interests spurred us to design a radio programme specifically for them, educating them on personal development, managing relationships and careers.” Adeniyi noted. “Due to the tremendous success of Season 1 of the Sunlight Alarambara Radio Drama, we decided to sustain the program, hence the Season 2.” he enthused. Speaking during the unveil of the new improved Sunlight 2-in-1 detergent at the event, Brand Manager, Sunlight Detergent, Ojeabuo Akhiojemi, stated that the essence of Sunlight detergent can be captured in “Delightful fragrance and effective cleaning”, which are the 2-in-1 benefits customers get anytime they use the detergent. “It is our tradition at Unilever to listen to our consumers and try to decipher their needs. Based on feedback from our consumers, we recently improved what Sunlight detergent is known for in terms of delightful fragrance and cleaning power. These further positions the brand to offer consumers burst after burst of freshness. We have also introduced two new pack sizes of 25g at N10 and 225g at N100 naira to ensure Sunlight is affordable for all our consumers,” Akhiojemi stated. The highlight of the event was the episode re-enactment where Mosun Filani (Sisi Oge) and her friends acted out an episode of the radio drama to the delight of the audience. The event ended with a feedback session from consumers and retailers, whose concerns were addressed by the Brand manager of Sunlight detergent.
From L-R: General Manager, East Hem Liquids, Kodili Ukaonu; Face of the Brand, Tania Omotayo; Chairman of the company, Ed Ukaonu and Group Managing Director, SMP Communications Limited, Ugo Ugoke at the launch of Last Shot drink in Lagos.
CONTEC to boost Benue’s industrial growth with 10mw power station
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fforts by the Benue State Government to revive its industrial sector have received a major boost with an agreement for Contec Global Energy Limited (CONTEC Global) to establish a 10 Megawatts gas-based power station in the state. A statement made available by Uchenna Okeke, Public Relations Officer of CONTEC said the power plant, the first of its kind in the region, will generate and supply electricity to the Benue Industrial Estate located in Makurdi, the state’s capital. At a meeting with the Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, and the Deputy Governor, Engineer Benson Abounu and members of his cabinet, CONTEC Global offered an initial proposal to establish a two MW power station which was later upgraded to 10M W by a six-member committee set up by the governor for effective coverage of the industrial estate. CONTEC’s Project Manager (Energy), Dr. Sashi Mozumder who gave details of the project said the gas-based power generation project to be established in Benue State is primed to commence in 180 days after all preliminary paper and administrative works on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) are completed. Meanwhile, the government has taken the lead on this with the provision of a five hectares land space for the power station.”We are currently working on the initial MoU, pre-feasibility study, benefit- cost analysis among other preliminary preparations towards the commencement of the project, which is scheduled to commence within 180 days.
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BUSINESS INTERVIEW
Umeofia: Tomatoes will hit N70, 000 a basket next year
corruption and impunity in public and private life? We appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari to correct this abnormality in the sector because the civil servants are not helping the local manufacturers, even when you write to the Minister, the civil servants will use grammar to mislead the minister because they are the ones the minister listens to. The civil servants will say that we need capacity utilisation, do they want all the companies in the country to close down before their capacity utilisation will come. Buying imported products means that Nigerians are creating jobs in the foreign lands, when the local manufacturers are closing their businesses in the country as result of non-patronage. Every day, government is telling us that we have over 20 million graduates that are unemployed, while over five million Asians are illegally working in the country. Government is not controlling the condition of investment in the country because the foreigners will come and open office in the country where about five of their people will be working but before you know what happening, they have brought over 100 of their people to work in the small office they opened in Nigeria and nobody is checking them because they have their money to give out.
Chief Eric Umeofia is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Erisco Food Nigeria, a tomato past manufacturing company. In this interview with STANLEY IHEDIGBO, he says that the current tomatoes scarcity in the country was caused by ‘Ebola’ tomato disease and seasonal planting of the crop Your company manufactures tomatoes paste locally; going by what is happening to the crop in the country, you are supposed to have closed your factory because of the rapacious ‘Ebola’ tomato disease. What is your story? The issue of the ‘Ebola’ tomatoes as you rightly said is caused by heat ans wind. The disease came about as a result of excess heat in a particular area and any route the wind passed witnessed what has is now known as Ebola disease. When, I heard that some state governments are bringing experts to stop it, I was just laughing at them because is just like to waking up somebody who was confirmed dead for several days. The disease is more in the Northern region because of its hot weather. It started two years ago in the region and we found out that it can be prevented through improved tomato seedlings for high yield and disease resistance. So, if disease can affect our tomato farm, it cannot destroy more than 25 per cent because of the kind of seed we are using now. Again, people in the government, don’t believe that the stakeholders know anything except themselves. Even when the so called experts advise them what crops to use, they will not consult the people in the sector for input before they start to anchored their policy on such advise. On tomatoes scarcity, this is not tomatoes season and we as a company are producing with old stock we had in the warehouse. It sounds ridiculous to me that some of the state governors said that they are going abroad to get experts to help tackle the disease, refusing to listen to our advice on the situation of tomatoes in the country, by next year, fresh tomatoes will hit N70, 000 per basket and it depends on the time the heat wind wave blows. If it blows towards the end of harvest, it means no damage except if it comes mid-year, it will really affect the crops. If any person tells you that there is any prevention for the heat wind when it comes, that person is joking, I stand to be corrected. That is why in the last 15 years nobody has been able to invest in tomato processing in this country. But we have been in the business of tomato processing, so, nobody needs to doubt what we are saying. Even at the level of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment our capacity to process a high quality tomato paste in Nigeria was doubted, if I were a foreigner, whatever I tell them, would have been taken seriously because there will be dollars to throw around. The last four years we have been campaigning
Umeofia
for this kind of situation where disease will affect the production of tomatoes in this country. Not only this situation, our yield of tomatoes in this country, those tomatoes you are eating before which you said cheap, someone actually lost very big money because of inadequate processing facilities. What are the challenges facing you the operators in this business? The thing is in three ways, the farmer lost money and nobody is able to support them back to the farm next year, so the farmer will not continue in the business. If you want to make more money, the best thing to do, which we have done is to acquire our own machine to process the tomatoes as a manufacturer. However, my worry is that whether our National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is equipped to support importers bringing in substandard products rather than supporting the local manufacturers. So, if not that I have conscience because I came from a humble family, I don’t need to make money at the detriment of other people’s lives, I would have been making easy money importing some of the fake tomato pastes you have over the markets in the country. We forced ourselves to do the right thing while some people are making money at the detriment of people’s lives in the country through importation of substandard products while we the local manufactures are suffering. What pains me is that Nigerians like to pay gradually for their death by eating substandard products. Nigerians forget that when you pay for substandard products because it is cheap and it seems good to your eyes, the products are reducing the consumers’ life span. Nigerians must support our farmers to get credit on what they are doing. Before now, per hectare of tomatoes in the country gives seven
tonnes, we are taking it to 70 tonnes per hectare through improved seedlings and those things are to be done by Nigerian farmers. We have our blueprint to transform tomatoes in all forms, from farming, transportation, processing and export. We want to flood tomato paste in the Nigeria market as well as export and it is easy for us in Nigeria because we have good weather to plant and harvest tomatoes against what the weather in foreign countries that bring substandard tomato paste into the country. For me, we are just deceiving ourselves and when I am saying the truth, some group will come and say that they are importers. They want to import more of the tomato paste into the country and I asked with which money, Nigeria’s money. We have a lot of arable land to plant tomatoes and I think that the government should ban importation of tomatoes, so that all of us will go into farming and processing of tomatoes in the country. When I am producing at N10, the importers will be bringing in substandard foreign tomato paste at N4 and you expect the local producer to compete them. Our regulatory agencies will tell us that because our quality is not good and we should improve on quality. There is no quality of imported food that will be better than the quality we produced in this country. We need to teach our people, how to do business in this country and how wrong they are because they don’t know they are reducing the lives of Nigerian people with chemical grown tomatoes imported from outside the country. I have written to the Minister of Health three times and he has not responded rather they left us with the importers to continuing fighting for survival for the one who can cut corners the most. What is the way forward looking at the effort of this present government on
Is there any possibility of this disease spreading to other crops in the country? If there is excess heat, it will affect other crops in the country but if there is not much heat it will not continue. The heat in the northern part of the country is excessive. And the situation does not last for more than 10 minutes, just immediately the heat wind blows passes any area that is all. The farm products are affected. With the present situation in the country, why are you still in production, where are you getting your raw materials? We have farms in Jigawa and Katsina states; also we farm with out-grower farmers. We made them part of our own, we told them what to grow. Although we are afraid to put more money into farming now because government have not supported us and when you are investing in this country, you invest with care because in some foreign countries, such farm investment are done and owned by state government. And in the whole of Africa, Nigeria is supposed to be in control of tomato production in West Africa because we have fertile land. If government fails to make farming and manufacturing to be attractive, then all the things they are saying are just stories as far I am concerned. What is your advice to government? If we want full growth in the manufacturing sector, Mr. President should give the Ministry of Industry a boost because no country has ever overcome their industrial challenge without the Ministry of Industry. When you take industry and lump it under trade and investment, what the ministry does is trade and invest. Even I believe, Nigeria does not need a Ministry of Trade and Investment, rather it needs Ministry of Industry because that is the main key to the growth of the economy. The government must also appoint a minister who has experience in the manufacturing sector. Also the agriculture sector should also be supported because the manufacturing sector cannot do without the raw materials which almost come through the agricultural industry.
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Business News
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Ezurike Ugochukwu
ndications are rife that the lingering crisis among the contenders to the leadership of the popular Computer Village, Ikeja, may soon be a thing of the past, as traders in the market have agreed to give peace a chance. This is even as an 11-man electoral committee has been inaugurated to conduct an election into the various executive positions of the Computer and Allied Products Traders Association (CAPDAN), which is the umbrella body of the traders in the market. Engineer Cletus Dike, was elected chairman of the committee while Mr. Okogua Obasayi, emerged Secretary. Afterwards, the electoral committee members took their oath of office and oath of allegiance supervised by the Ikeja local council’s lawyer, Barrister Rabiu Kazeem. During the inauguration of the body, called, Computer Village Electoral Committee, which was the outcome of months of consultations by the state government through the state Ministry of Civil Engagement. The
Computer Village moves to resolve leadership tussle chairman of Ikeja Local Government Area (LGA), Mr. L. Dally-Adeokun, said history has been made by the achievement. He harped on the need for the traders to make the market peaceful. The chairman said lack of unity in the market has denied the council huge revenue and promised that the council will not interfere in the election but will work with any executive of CAPDAN produced from a free and fair election. “The LGA, state and the world are looking at the electoral body. They are to set foundation for the progress of all of us. Let us work together irrespective of our ethnicity. Business does not know ethnic origin. Only when we want to cause confusion we bring in the issue of religion and tribe. In the past when they had CAPDAN executive in place, we were of mutual benefit to each other. What-
ever we intend doing when CAPDAN was in place, we discuss with them and do that. That is how we were running this place then,” he said. The council boss further reminded the committee that they have minimum of 30 days and maximum of 60 days to conduct the election as he stated that security will be beefed up around the committee members. He promised that the LGA will
assist the body in the area of logistics to make their work easy. The electoral committee chairman Engr. Dike, a pioneer member of CAPDAN and also a member of the defunct electoral committee explained that the initial problems confronting the association has been sorted out, and the members have come to agree to work together. “What we want to do is to see that we conduct
a credible election and put the right candidate that will run the affairs of the computer village in place. In every election, you begin by getting your membership lists intact. How to get the people accredited to be eligible to vote and to be voted for. These we will put in place to create an enabling environment.” Adeokun stated. Speaking to reporters at the end of the event, one of
the CAPDAN Presidential aspirants, Mr. Ahmed Ojikutu, expressed confidence on electoral committee. He thanked the state governor whom he described as humble and a visionary leader, saying he has stressed his love for the Computer Village by bringing in the office of the Civic Engagement headed by Mr. Kehinde Joseph that has proffered a way forward in the 12 years old crisis
May & Baker wins award for quality pharmaceuticals
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ay & Baker, Nigeria has capped its numerous achievements in the pharmaceutical manufacturing business with an award of excellence in high quality and safety in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The award was presented to the company at the 2016 Industry and Commerce Awards organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lagos recently. Presenting the award to the company, the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Mudashiru Obasa commended the company for showing the way for pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria. Explaining the rationale for the award, the organizers of the award noted that May & Baker Nigeria Plc has been synonymous with excellence since it started its operations in Nigeria in 1944 as the first pharmaceutical company in the country. Her quest for excellence has been well recorded with a string of firsts like; First Pharmaceutical company in Nigeria, First pharmaceutical company to diversify into other areas of business, First to introduce a new dosage Chloroquine regimen, First pharmaceutical company with a functional website, First ISO certified pharmaceutical company and one of the first set of pharmaceutical companies in Nigeria to receive World Health Or-
ganisation’s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification. As Nigeria’s first pharmaceutical company, May & Baker has for over seven decades, remained a key player in the nation’s healthcare industry. Meanwhile a statement from the company maintained that generations of Nigerians have come to rely on the company for health support. The company’s reputation for quality is legendary. Every May & Baker product picked off from the shelf, it added has a guarantee and stamp of quality that has been the hallmark of the company in Nigeria. This is because May & Baker has a rigorous quality assurance procedure that starts with ensuring that the right quality input materials from suppliers are received, to continuous checking, testing and re-testing at each stage of manufacturing, employing the highest standard of current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) procedures, to continuous post sales surveillance and monitoring of all products through the distribution channel. However her strategic quality planning took a major step with the attainment of the WHO Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) in 2014. May & Baker’s manufacturing facility is West Africa’s most modern pharmaceutical facility and centre of excellence in
L-R: Sole Administrator, Nnewi North Local Government Area (LGA), Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu Jr.; Minister of Youths and Sports, Bar. Solomon Dalong; Chairman/CEO Innoson Group, Chief Innocent Chukwuma and CEO, Innoson Kiara Academy, Endi Ndu Ezengwa, during the minister’s visit to the Innoson Group
FG to partner Innoson on youths empowerment
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Paul Ogbuokiri
ndications emerged on Friday that the Federal Government is set to collaborate with the Innoson Kiara Academy on training for skills in automobile mechanics etc. This was made known during a recent visit by the Minister of Youths and Sports, Bar. Solomon Dalong to the Enugu and Nnewi of the Innoson Group, saying the visit to to Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company plant (where a long range of passenger cars and commercial vehicles are manufactured) and Innoson Kiara Academy, Nnewi, where ex-militants from the Niger Delta, was preparatory to the plan by the ministry to go into partnership with the auto plant and the academy towards the empowerment of more youths in the country. Coming only a couple of months after the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and Coordinator, Amnesty Programme, Brig-Gen Paul Boro, paid a similar visit to the Innoson
Group; the Chief Executive Officer, Innoson Kiara Academy, Endi Ndu Ezengwa, said the Minister’s visit further underscored the Education for Empowerment (E4E) programme of Innoson Kiara as an important tool for youth empowerment and sustenance of peace in the south-south region. While touring the plant in Nnewi, the minister was pleasantly surprised that such a gigantic facility was located in that part of the country. He commended the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Innoson Group, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, for his foresight and ingenuity in setting up the vehicle company. Dalong commended the trainees for taking a wise decision by accepting to undergo the training. He made them understand that in no distant time they would realise that the training had changed their lives for better. “You have taken a wise decision as you accepted to do this training which will help you become self-
reliant tomorrow. It requires patience and being focused to be able to justify your stay here. The Federal Government meant well for you and would not like the youths to be wasted because the youths are the strong bone of any nation,” Dalong said. He noted that the exmilitants’ resolve to undertake the training prove wrong the negative publicity about the Niger Delta youths as, according to him, majority of the trainees were from the Niger Delta. He added that it meant there were young people from that part of the country who were concerned about building their future. The minister was optimistic that they would succeed in this regard since they are being empowered and strengthened through the programme. On how government could further support companies like the Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Limited which set up the training academy, Dalong said: “That is why we are here to sign a Memorandum of Under-
standing (MoU) with the company. We are open and ready to synergise with the company, to partner with it in order to build mutual and strong relationship for the benefit of Nigerian youths.” Innoson Kiara Academy in Nnewi is supported by the Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Limited under the E4E for the Niger Delta youths in partnership with the Presidential Amnesty Office. According to the Chief Excutive Officer, Mr. Endi Ezengwa, it is a well organised training centre where trainees are taught automobile assembly from scratch to finish, as well as auto mechanics and welding and a host of other engineering work, including aviation maintenance. The Minister of Youth and Sports’ tour was preceded a week earlier by a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja, by Mr. Chukwuma and members of Innoson management who were invited to discuss possible partnership and collaboration on youth empowerment and development.
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Auto beat
Ford wins best small engine award a 5th time F
Paul Ogbuokiri
ord’s tiny yet powerful 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine has been voted best in class at the International Engine of the Year Awards for the fifth year in a row. Judges praised the combination of drivability, performance, economy, refinement and technology that continues to set the standard. The frugal three-cylinder EcoBoost engine was named “Best Engine Under 1.0-litre” by a panel of 65 automotive journalists, from 31 countries, to win its class each and every year since launch. This year it finished ahead of 32 competitor engines, 19 more than it competed against in 2012. Significantly, 2015 also saw an increase in competition from global automotive manufacturers of sub 1.0-litre, turbocharged engines with direct fuel injection. In 2014, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost became the first engine to be named overall International Engine of the Year for a third time in a row, and also was in 2012 named “Best New Engine.” “The 1.0-litre EcoBoost was a gamechanger, and despite others following our lead, it remains the undisputed benchmark in its class five years on,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “The spirit of innovation continues to drive us as we look to use the same smart thinking for a new breed of efficient, clean and powerful down-sized diesel engines.” Available with 100 PS, 125 PS and 140 PS, and even 180 PS in the Ford Fiesta R2 rally car, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine powers vehicles in 72 countries worldwide. In 140 PS form, the engine delivers a bigger power-to-litre ratio than a Bugatti Veyron. A road-legal Formula Ford fitted with a 205 PS version of the engine also lapped the famous Nürburgring circuit, in Germany, in 7 minutes 22 seconds; a performance that put it ahead of a host of supercars including the 600+
Motoring tips horsepower Lamborghini Aventador, Ferrari Enzo and Pagani Zonda. Eleven models, including Fiesta, EcoSport, B-MAX, Focus, C-MAX, Grand C-MAX, Tourneo and Transit Connect, Tourneo and Transit Courier, and Mondeo are available in Europe with the multi-award winning engine. One in five all-new Ford vehicles sold in Europe in 2015 were equipped with the 1.0-litre unit, including almost two in five Fiestas. The technology of Ford’s EcoBoost petrol engines is now being employed in the newest down-sized diesel engine from Ford, the 2.0-litre EcoBlue launched in Ford Transit earlier this year. Utilising a low inertia turbocharger, high pressure direct fuel injection, integrated manifolds, belt-in-oil and other low friction elements it delivers a 13 per cent increase in fuel efficiency and 20 per cent more
low-end torque. * Globally, Ford’s range of powerful yet fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines includes 1.5-litre, 1.6-litre, 2.0-litre and 2.3-litre four-cylinder engines, and 2.7-litre and 3.5-litre V6 engines. The latter powers the all-new Ford GT supercar that will return to racing in Le Mans later this month. That it’s won the overall award three times and keeps getting the jurors’ votes now highlights just how special Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost is,” said Dean Slavnich, co-chairman of the 18th International Engine of the Year awards that were held in Stuttgart, Germany, and editor-in-chief of Engine Technology International magazine. “It’s a fantastic testament to how down-sizing and greater fuel efficiency needn’t mean sacrifice in other areas like power, refinement and drivability, and can even help enhance these elements.
Suzuki investigated for fuel economy rigging
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uzuki has become the latest Japanese car maker to be raided by officials investigating apparent falsification of fuel economy tests. The Friday raid, reports Reuters, was seeking evidence that Suzuki produced fuel economy figures from indoor tests on individual car parts, rather than the full vehicle costing tests they were meant to conduct. Suzuki has admitted it carried out fuel economy tests ‘using an improper method’: back in May, it originally said 16 Japanese domestic market cars were affected, later upping this to 26 cars. More than 2.1 million JDM models are involved – and some of them are cars Suzuki makes for other car makers. The brand, an expert in small and fuel-efficient models, blames a lack of resources following the 2008 global financial crisis, something reinforced by added pressure to roll out ever-more fuel-efficient cars.
There was no intention to misrepresent and inflate fuel economy figures, it insists. The Friday raid on its headquarters is part of the Japanese transport authority’s investigation into whether this is true.
Earlier in May, Mitsubishi was rocked by its own fuel economy testing scandal, where it subsequently emerged the firm has been misrepresenting mpg for the past quarter-century. A plunge in its market value sub-
sequently saw Nissan pounce and take it over. As is likely with Suzuki though, Mitsubishi’s British importer has confirmed no UK cars are affected and official mpg figures are correct.
Fake tyres: Nigeria records 3,000 accidents in 5 years- FRSC
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he Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says the use of fake and expired tyres is responsible for more than 3,000 road traffic accidents that occurred in the last five years. The Assistant Corps Marshal in charge of Policy, Research and Statistics, Dr Kayode Olagunju disclosed this on Saturday in Ado Ekiti. Olagunju spoke at a nationwide national awareness campaign organized by the corps for drivers, vulcanizers as well as tyre dealers and other stakeholders. He stated that the accidents which were usually caused by either “Tokunbo” or “second hand” tyres, accounted for more than 10 per cent of road accidents in the country. Olagunju expressed regrets that most Nigerians still preferred to go for used tyres in spite huge campaign and mobilization mounted against such practice by the corps. He warned that his men patrolling the highways would henceforth not take it easy with recalcitrant drivers and vehicle owners caught with expired tyres. Olagunju said that the same treatment would be meted out to government drivers as well as those regarded as “untouchables” in the society. According to him, the commission will intensify efforts in its collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, (SON) to raid outlets and consequent destruction of killer tyres. “Only the lucky ones are arrested by road marshals, but only the unlucky ones are arrested by road accidents,” he said.
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SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
Business
Why is salt added to processed foods? Clinical Consultant pharmacist EMMANUEL A.NWANKWO
This will reduce the increasing cases of high blood pressure, heart attacks, kidney failure and gastric, stomach cancer cases world wide
agmerendis@yahoo.com
08148877648 (SMS only)
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ea salt is very good but more expensive. Sea salt also has traces of other minerals called trace minerals because it is not heavily processed, unlike table salt. Sea salt is a natural source of iodine which is good for the body. Patient has the right to know that Iodized table salt can also contain additional ingredient like fluoride and folic acid. For better health of the people. The Board of health in New York early this month (September 9th 2015) requires every chain eateries, restaurants (mama put) sub sandwiches, Movie Theater, pretzel milk shakes, and salads to have salt warning on them. This is a national push for healthier eating habits. Emblems to be on foods that contain more than the daily recommended salt intake of 2,400mg, so that people will know the amount of salt they are taking each time they use those products (food) According to Board of Health in New York they hope that this decision will help all the communities force eating
places to cut down on too much salt in the food they sell to the public. People have the right to know that there is a heightened alert to reduce too much salt in food. This will reduce the increasing cases of high blood pressure, heart attacks, kidney failure and gastric, stomach cancer cases world wide. WHAT STEP CAN YOU TAKE TO REDUCE YOUR SALT INTAKE? You need to eat more fresh fruits and vegetable. The best way to reduce salt intake is to buy fresh produce such as fresh vegetable, fruits, raw grains and fresh meat. Fresh food items are more flavorful and they contain potassium which is good for the body. Remember that cooking your own meals from scratch is a good way to control the amount of salt in your food
The gold chain
Success Nuggets
He wanted a ‘white collar job,’ popularly so called. He felt it was one sure way out of poverty
Victor Okwudiri 08037674300 (SMS only)
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rom a humble beginning, Chidi, rose to become the first graduate in his community. It was not an easy feat, given his family’s low placement in the social strata. Upon his graduation, Chidi was posted to Zamfara State, in Northern Nigeria, in line with the mandatory National Youth Service Corps programme. His total earning as a corper was about N25, 000.00 (twenty-five thousand naira). It was never enough for him, given that he had to send some money to his family in Aba, South-East of Nigeria, for their upkeep. He had undergraduate younger siblings, whose prospects of completing their tertiary education were threatened by abject poverty. His parents also gave him concern, as they could not afford a living for the family. Chidi could not wait to be done with his youth service, so he could get a good job with a decent pay. He wanted a ‘white collar job,’ popularly so called. He felt it was one sure way out of poverty. That opinion of his was formed over time as he saw people on suit and tie driving beautiful cars to work every morning on work days. He could not wait to be like them. Dreams, they say, come true. So it happened for Chidi. He successfully completed his youth service and immediately secured a job with a busy accounting firm in Lagos, south-west of Nigeria. That, for him, was the beginning of the rest of his life. Before he could say “Jack,” he was handed an official car and was given an accommodation allowance. “Wow!” That was what Chidi always exclaimed each time he tried to reconcile where he was com-
ing from with where he was on that job. They were irreconcilable. It was not just an arithmetic progression, but a geometric one. He, therefore, was all out to give the company his best. Chidi lived in Ikotun area of Lagos, and worked in Lekki. The accommodation allowance given to him was not enough to afford him a decent apartment on the island. He, therefore, thought to get a more decent apartment outside the island. He was all the same grateful for the accommodation allowance, as some of his friends did not enjoy that ‘privilege’ on their jobs. Given the distance between his house and place of work, which said distance seemed further stretched by the density of the population of Lagos State, Chidi left Ikotun everyday latest 5am, so he could make it to work before 7:30am. Also, he worked most weekends. The job was quite tasking. Overtime, Chidi began to give his job a second thought. He realised that what he earned at work, he spent on his health, as his health dilapidated so fast, given the stress of the job. What more? He did not have a social life. He was almost thirty, yet had no serious relationship with a lady, with a view to getting married. Given that he practically had no time for socials, he lost the relationship he had with a girl he met during his youth service. She couldn’t cope with his failure to give her attention, as he always pointed to work as an excuse. It dawned on him that he was earning a living without living a life. He realised he had been in chains - gold
It is better to use spices when cooking, use vinegars, paprika, Herbs, flavored oil instead of salt. If you want to buy packaged or processed foods it is very important to look for low salt or very low salt product. Read the label or ask the store person to explain to you about the amount of salt in the food item. PATIENT RIGHT TO KNOW Salt Guideline. According to various health organizations 2300mg is equal to 1 teaspoonful of salt daily but for people who already have saltinduced health problems they can use 1,200-1,500mg which is less than (1/2 ) teaspoon of salt daily. Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that bread makers (Bakers) should reduce the amount of salt in bread especially in white bread because bread is blamed for American high salt intake, and the same thing may be applicable here in Nigeria. In January, 2015 the American heart association concluded that excess salt leads to high blood pressure and that excessive slat must be reduced in our meals (diet)
Unity Bank Plc forges alliance to enhance capital
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nity Bank Plc has forged a strategic alliance with Black Trituium, an equity and investment fund manager, in a bid to achieve a milestone repositioning of the bank. In furtherance of the above, the Group is poised to make significant equity investment in Unity Bank Plc. This strategic alliance will expand Unity Bank’s business scope, strengthen its capital base and support its retail strategy whilst meeting the investment objectives of Black Trituium. Black Trituium is an Equity and Investment fund manager, managing funds for individuals and institutions such as Trade Union Congress of Nigeria. The collaboration with Unity Bank is expected to expand the retail and SME platform of the bank. Investment analysts see this as a unique opportunity that has the potential to broaden the bank’s customer base and provide long term stakeholder value. Furthermore, given the current economic outlook, this strategic alliance is a proactive response that is a value investment with immediate benefits that will enhance the capacity of the bank to meet the needs of its banking public. The alliance will support government initiatives aimed at driving growth in the real sector through SME and retail products, with particular focus on the Agricultural sector.
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF NAFDAC IN REGULATING SALT IN NIGERIA? Answer: NAFDAC is playing a role in monitoring of salt iodization in Nigeria
chains. It was attractive, yet did not make the one adorning it any less a slave; a beast of burden, whose value revolves around his master’s business interest. At that point, he decided he was done, but sadly, he also realised he had no investment, and his savings were meagre, a situation foisted on him by the consciousness that he was going to receive a salary every month. LESSONS 1. We work to live. We do not live to work. Chidi missed this point. He placed the cart (work) before the horse (life). The result? He lost the very essentials of life - health, good relationships, special moments, etc. Sadly, he was going to ‘lose’ the job too. Friend, never pursue earning a living at the expense of living a life. 2. A job doesn’t really make one rich; it only leaves one ‘Just Over Broke’ (JOB). True riches are not built on a job. A job merely leaves one ‘Just Over Broke’ (slightly above being broke). That is not wealth. That is not SIGNIFICANCE, but mere SURVIVAL. An employer will only pay you as much as is necessary to keep you fit to make more money for him. In the final analysis, his interest is in your services, not necessarily you. Think about that. Please, note that I am not saying that no one should work for another person. I work for someone. What I am saying is that if you want to build real riches, a job is not the best platform. You can have your job, but don’t let your job have all of you. This is where the idea of multiple streams of income come to play. Let the money you earn on your job work and generate more money for you in many other ways. Think about it. You will succeed. Please follow me on Twitter@ VictorOkwudiri
L-R: Regional Head, Retail Showroom and Franchise, Airtel, Ms. Edero Daro-Idollo; Airtel’s Regional Operations Director, North, Mr. Wole Abu; Zonal Coordinator, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Kano Zonal Office, Mallam Adamu Amshi; Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Police Academy, Kano, Mr. Aderele Shinaba, during the commissioning of the Airtel Regional Office, in Kano…on Thursday.
Airtel wins the global telco biz award
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harti Airtel, a leading global telecommunications services provider with operations in 20 countries across Africa and Asia, in collaboration with Nokia, has won the Global Telecommunication Business (GTB) award for a digital backbone that is driving mobile economy in Africa. Airtel also emerged the winner in Voice over internet Protocol (VoiP) App within the Exceptional Emerging Market category. Speaking on the development, the Executive Chairman, Airtel Africa, Christian de Faria, said, “Airtel Africa wants to fully utilise the advantages of IP/MPLS technology to economically and effectively handle high volumes of a variety of mobile broadband data and video services. The new network implementation and management not only provides a substantially improved quality of service for our existing customers; it also continues to do an excellent job of enabling us capture expansion opportunities with a wide range of intelligent services across our markets”. Airtel’s digital backbone, enabled by Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) allows businesses to transmit and access data quickly, economically and securely between local and international locations. This eliminates complex architecture in data-carriage. Nokia’s Market Unit Head Central, East & West Africa, Daniel Jaeger, said, “Nokia’s Managed Services solution enables Airtel to focus on the development of new service offerings and the quality of experience Airtel delivers to its customers in a highly competitive environment. A specific benefit is an accelerated time-to-market for new revenuegenerating services, especially toward business customers interested in seizing emerging business opportunities across the African continent”. In a multi-year engagement which started in 2013, Nokia is working with Airtel to build and operate a critical pan-African IP backbone. This backbone is essential to provide a reliable digital network with significant socio-economic benefits for the continent, realising the human possibilities of technology.
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2016
Equities Market Rally Comes to T
he bullish run of the equities market came to a swift end this week, as the positive sentiments which pervaded the market following the MPC’s mandate to the CBN to institute a more flexible FX management framework dissipated, to allow profit taking dominate activities. Consequently, the NSEASI declined by 4.39% Week-to-Date (WtD) to peg the Year-toDate (YtD) return at -3.52%, on the back of the losses recorded on the first two (2) trading days of the week (-7.01%), which abruptly wiped out the gains of the previous week (+6.43%). There were thirteen (13) gainers and fifty-nine (59) decliners during the week, to peg the market’s breadth at 0.22x. The gainers for the week were led by CADBURY, ETRANZACT, TRANSEXPR, PZ and UNIONDICON, which recorded respective gains of 21.66%, 17.37%, 13.82%, 4.99% and 4.72%. Conversely, OANDO, NEIMETH, MANSARD, STANBIC, and HONYFLOUR were the largest underperformers, after recording value declines of 17.87%, 15.05%, 13.79%, 11.07% and 10.22% accordingly. There were a few earnings releases this week, the most prominent of which came from Cadbury Nigeria Plc (CADBURY). The other results were from GREIF Plc (GREIF), Avon Crowncaps & Containers Plc (AVONCROWN), Equity Assurance Plc (EQUITYASUR) and Fortis Microfinance Bank Plc (FORTIS). Cadbury Plc released both FY2015 and Q1:2016 numbers, which were in stark contrast with one another. As at FY2015, the Company recorded Revenue, ProfitBefore-Tax (PBT), and Profit-After-Tax (PAT) declines of 8.83%, 33.89%, and 46.04% YoY respectively. However, by Q1:2016, the Company’s relative performance had moved to the positive region, with Revenue, PBT, and PAT all growing by 5.79%, 328.53%, and 321.67% YoY accordingly. This improved performance was driven by cost management gains, and much increased finance income. Also, Cadbury Plc proposed a FY2015 (final) dividend of NGN0.65k, which would represent a dividend yield of 3.17%, based on closing price at the end of the week. While some positivity crept back into the market at the close of the week (+1.34% return over the last two (2) trading days) following reports that the Apex authority was currently engaging stakeholders regarding the new FX management policy, we do not expect the upbeat to be sustained in the coming week unless the CBN releases the new guidelines for FX management. Also, the details of how the market will transact, and whether the system will have the desired impact on the supply side of FX in the country will be determinants of a sustained rally. This report reviews events in the current week, with emphasis on different segments of the financial market, while presenting our expectations for the coming week. Fixed Income Brief: Subsisting System Liquidity Spurs Demand There was a further rise in financial system liquidity, as Open Market Operation (OMO) maturities flowed into the system, while OMO auction announced this week ended with “no sale”. Consequently, demand levels were substantial in the market, resulting in declining yields across instruments. The average FGN bond offer yield trimmed by 0.04% WtD to 12.51%, while average Treasury Bills yield pegged at 8.60% (-0.45% WtD) as at Thursday the 2nd of June. Also, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) held a Primary Market Auction this week. The auction was for the 91-day (NGN45.85bn), 182-day (NGN18.00bn), and 364-day (NGN80.00bn) tenors, for a
… Market Awaits Flexible FX Management Framework total amount of NGN143.85bn. The auction was largely oversubscribed, reflecting the substantial financial system liquidity, with a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.74x, and stop rates closing lower than that at the prior auction (91-day: 7.99%, 182-day: 9.05%, 364-day: 11.10%). The impact of the subsisting system liquidity was also reflected in the NIBOR and Money markets, as the average NIBOR and money market rates settled at 9.41% (-0.88% WtD) as at Thursday 2nd June, and 3.00% (-2.17% WoW) correspondingly. The local currency traded flat against the US dollar at the interbank during the week to peg at a mid-price of NGN198.89/USD, while the currency appreciated at the parallel market by 0.57% to NGN350.00/USD. Agric. Sector: Sector breadth pegs at 0.50x The sector breadth settled at 0.50x in the week, as a lone stock appreciated against two (2) decliners. Performance for the sector settled at +0.24% WoW, as measured by the MERI-AGRI index. OKOMUOIL (+3.55% WoW) was the only advancer, with the share’s price pegging at NGN30.05, while LIVESTOCK (-7.02%) and PRESCO (-2.19%) were the laggards, settling at NGN1.06 and NGN35.70 respectively. We envisage sustenance of the current cautious mood of investors to the sector counters, until clear-cut directions are seen regarding government regulations as it relates to the listed sector companies. Banking Sector: Snaps 7 Consecutive Weeks of Gains The banking sector returned negative this week (-8.23% WtD to peg YtD return at +2.27%), snapping seven (7) consecutive weeks of advancements of the MERI-BNK index. There were no advancers, while fifteen (15) sector stocks declined in value during the week. STANBIC, ZENITHBANK, ETI, STERLNBNK, and FBNH recorded the largest declines, paring in value by 11.07%, 9.83%, 8.98%, 8.82%, and 8.26% respectively. Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc (STANBIC) released a statement to the Nigerian Stock Exchange this week, in which the Holdco stated that the publication of its FY2015 financial results would be delayed further. In the coming week, we anticipate that buy side activities will fade, and profittaking dominate, provided there are no news flows regarding the new flexible FX management framework. Consumer Goods: CADBURY Posts 322% Growth in PAT for Q1:2016 Profit taking ensued on most of the sector counters in the week, with the sector’s in-
dex reversing part of its prior week’s gains to record a decline of 2.00% Week-to-Date (WtD). Consequently, the YtD return of the sector is now pegged at -4.77%. The sector’s breadth (0.27x) signalled the direction of trading this week, as eleven (11) stocks recorded share price declines as against three (3) stock that appreciated in value. Other counters traded flat during the week. CADBURY emerged the top gainer in the week, after advancing by 21.66% to close at NGN20.50. PZ and UNIONDICON also joined the gainers chart, after recording price appreciations of 4.99% and 4.72% accordingly. Contrarily, HONYFLOUR declined the most in value in the week, paring by 10.22% to NGN1.67, thus reversing all the gains amassed in the prior week. Also featuring on the laggards’ list were TIGERBRANDS, GUINNESS, CHAMPION, DANGSUGAR, VITAFOAM, NASCON, NESTLE, NB, FLOURMILL and INTBREW with respective price declines of 8.10%, 7.11%, 5.52%, 5.29%, 4.94%, 4.76%, 3.78%, 3.51%, 2.31% and 1.26%. Cadbury Nigeria Plc released its FY2015 and 3M2016 result in the week. Revenue for FY2015 came in at NGN27.83bn, representing an 8.83% decline from FY2014 numbers. Profit-Before-Tax (PBT) and Profit-After-Tax (PAT) also declined by 33.89% and 46.04% accordingly. However, Revenue for Q1:2016 grew by 5.79% YoY to NGN7.12bn. Similarly, Profit-Before-Tax (PBT) and Profit-After-Tax (PAT) increased significantly by 328.53% and 321.67% respectively, buoyed by the Company’s cost management drive, and growth in finance income. CADBURY proposed a dividend of NGN0.65k for 2015. Following three (3) consecutive weeks of substantial price appreciations across most of the sector counters, investors took profit on stocks that witnessed price rallies during the period. Given that most of the sector’s stocks have now declined below their intrinsic values, we expect some position taking in the week. Notwithstanding, we advise investors to balance their optimism with caution amidst the unfavourable macro-economic environment. Health Sector: GLAXOSMITH Divests its Ribena and Lucozade Brands The negative mood in the sector from the prior week was sustained in this week, with our MERI-HLTH index paring by 2.37% to further drag the year-to-date (YtD) return to -40.74%. Four (4) stocks recorded share price depreciations as against a solitary advancer. MAYBAKER was the only advancer in the week, after appreciating by 3.45% to peg the price at NGN1.20. The losers’ table featured NEIMETH, PHARMADEKO, FIDSON and GLAXOSMITH with share
price declines of 15.05%, 8.60%, 3.30% and 2.44% respectively. GLAXOSMITH informed the market that the board of directors have accepted Suntory Beverage & Food Limited’s offer for divestment of the company’s drink bottling and distribution business, which comprises of the Ribena and Lucozade brands. This arrangement also includes, transfer of all assets of the business to Suntory Beverage & Food Limited. Based on the forgoing, the shareholders were notified of an EGM on Monday 4th July, 2016 for shareholders’ approval. Upon approval, the company will pay a special dividend of NGN0.65k per share from the proceeds of the divestment on 7th September, 2016 to shareholders in the company’s register on the closure date of 31st August, 2016. We anticipate that the sector’s performance will stay in line with the general equities market over the coming week, and advise investors to take advantage of fundamentally justified stocks in the sector which are trading below their intrinsic values in the coming week. Insurance Sector: Records No Single Advancer The performance of the insurance sector mirrored that of the general market, with our MERI-INS index declining by 6.34% WtD to peg the YtD return at -14.07%. There was no advancer in the sector this week, while four (4) stocks declined in value. All other stocks traded flat. The decliners’ table was populated MANSARD, AIICO, NEM, and CUSTODYINS which recorded respective declines in value of 13.79%, 8.64%, 6.10%, and 5.26% accordingly. Equity Assurance Plc released its FY2015 and Q1:2016 numbers this week. As at FY2015, the Company recorded a Gross Premium Written (GPW) decline of 7.75% YoY, with Profit-After-Tax (PAT) paring more significantly by 416.47% YoY, primarily on the back of the 67.17% YoY growth in operating expenses. By Q1:2016, GPW grew by 10.18% YoY to NGN1.39bn, however, the Company recorded a loss for the year of NGN132.39mn, as the impact of substantial increases in Net Claims Expenses (+76.98% YoY)and Operating Expenses (+44.95% YoY) decimated the trickle-down to the bottom-line. The performance this week was much in line with our general expectations as investors took profits after the substantial gains recorded on some tickers recently. We expect moderate gains during the coming week, as investors take position in anticipation of the institution of the more flexible FX management framework. Oil & Gas Sector: Sector Records No Advancer Investors took profit on most sector’s counters in the week, as the NSEOILG5 index pared by 5.29% WoW. There was no advancer in the week, while six (6) stocks declined in value. OANDO (-17.87% WoW) topped the decliners’ list, as the company’s release of a statement regarding a further extension of the release of its FY2015 financial results was met with negative sentiments from investors. ETERNA (-7.72% WoW), MRS (-4.98% WoW), FO (-4.95% WoW), MOBIL (-2.85%), and SEPLAT (-2.74% WoW) were the other laggards. The price of crude oil, as measured by Brent, settled at USD49.72pb (+0.81% WoW) at the end of the week, as the OPEC meeting conducted in the week had a resolution to maintain the existing status quo regarding production output, given the continuing decline of crude oil production from nonOPEC producers amidst various global supply shocks.
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SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
faith
The story could have been different
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ne day, I was afraid that a type of sickness may be T.B., would kill me. The problem appeared to be increasing, getting worse and it appeared no solution was in view. I was a guest speaker in two churches. There were no public address systems in any of the churches. The preaching assignments spanned Monday through Wednesday in one church and Thursday to Saturday in the other one. My voice cracked and defied all medical treatment. I soon began to cough, and also coughed blood. I could not speak or preach without series of cough. I was asked to go for X-ray to check if my heart was affected. X-ray reports, in those days, were as large as centre-table. Without a car, how would I hold the film to the motor park and then in the bus to my home town? Everyone would know you had a problem or sick. This situation lasted for over 5 years. I was worried and lost weight. People were careful coming too close to me as a Secondary School Principal because of the cough. I prayed and cried to God. One day as I was coming back from school in a bus, I can recollect vividly the very position a thought (from God) came to me; “You are not sick anymore; I have healed you”. I have
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Word of Life Bishop. Moses Kattey moseskatteyabp@yahoo.co.uk
0808 770 7486
got worried or depressed. Really, one might develop symptoms of worry years after an incidence like in this case. I asked her how she was cured or healed and she narrated the following story. She said that she came to my office for prayer about the cancer and I told her to go and sit just before the altar for about 30 minutes or so and later come back to see me. I remembered the incidence. A woman came to my office to pray with evidence of tests that she had cancer of the breast. I saw the medical reports and could not say anything to her because I was sure that cancer could not be “cured or healed”, so I thought. I did not know how to console her. It like Job’s three friends to me. Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came everyone from his own place; Eliphaz the Tema-nite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Na-amathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with and to comfort him. And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, and knew him not, they lifted
learnt to understand when the Lord is speaking, so I immediately knew that the Lord had healed me without any medication. I believed that with all my heart even though I coughed but less frequently. After many days I suddenly realized that the coughs were no more there when I spoke or preached. The Lord had healed me. It was almost 20 years ago. If I had refused to believe that God has healed me when He spoke to me, may be by now I could have left the world or gone to chest hospital to avoid spreading the disease. It is good to believe the Word of God. A woman came with the son for prayers one of these days. After the prayers, she showed me her face that was disfigured. She was about to have stroke. I asked her why, she was thinking or worried. She denied getting worried at that time. She, however accepted that sometimes ago, about 3 years past, she was diagnosed to have cancer of the breast and really worried about who would take care of her children been very sure she would die. That was the only time she
up their voice, and wept; and they rent every one his mantle, and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven. So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great. Job 2:11-13 I kept quiet for sometimes in order not to give her impression that her case was a bad case, I told her to sit in front of the altar and come back after about 30 minutes. While she was there at the Altar, I prayed to God to give me answer for her. The Lord said. “Tell her she is not having cancer”. I said medical results or tests showed that she has. The Lord said that if I tell her that she had cancer but that He has healed her, she would believe that she had cancer but will not believe that He has healed her. “Just tell her that she does not have cancer”. That I did. I prayed over water for her to drink and let her go. That was how she received her healing. She believed the Word of God that she had no cancer and was healed. This happened about 7 years ago and yet there is no trace of cancer of the breast today. Supposing she disbelieved, the story could have been different. Her faith made her whole.
Your harshness is killing me…
man was shocked to have found out from his wife that his harshness had killed the love she had for him. What marveled him was that she did not say ‘is killing’ but ‘had killed’. He got furious initially but after brooding over the statement and probably putting things together, he realized that there was a big truth in the statement. So many marriages just exist by the two still being together but in the real sense; one or both of the people in the relationship are just trying to patch up with the marriage relationship. Some say they do so for the sake of the products of the union and some because they cannot remarry as Christians. Eph 5:31 “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.” When you have been joined, why would you allow the devil to break the bond in your heart even though you are living together? Be wise. We are allowing the devil to cheat on us a lot by making us to manage our marriages and endure it too. Marriage is supposed to be
Marriage & Family Intimacy
Bishop Charles Ighele holyspiritmissioninc@yahoo.com
07066579379/09098845521 a place of comfort, succour, security and full of love and peace. It should be a place we will long to be at all times but we have used one thing or the other to destroy the beautiful things we are meant to enjoy in it. 1 Cor13:5 “Love Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil.”If only we can throw away self and pride, we will get back what belonged to us. SELF – this is one of the hinges that is holding our homes from coming back together. Self is so destructive. Whenever we have the attitude of me, mine and me, we will definitely miss out in our marriages. When you are getting irritated and become harsh, you are only trying to satisfy the yearning in you to express ‘what you do not want or like’. Self plays a lot of role when it comes to seeking what you want
done. Remove self and you will see that every irritation will cease. PRIDE – this affects the men more. Most husbands see themselves as the alpha and omega of their homes and so the woman is not supposed to have any say to anything happening around the house. That is not the Word of God and it is contrary to His design for marriage. Pride makes you not to say “I am sorry” even when you are at fault. It makes you to refuse to own up to your faults. It makes you to see others as inferior to you, including your wife. That is why a man will tell his wife “you are not to talk when I am talking”. Some women do not give their husbands his rightful place because they feel equal with him. You will hear a woman say “After all Bible says we are all equal before God.” We enjoy quoting the
scriptures to favour our courses and funny though we misquote or quote what will justify what we are doing even when it is not rightly stated. When the man, the woman and children know what the Bible says concerning the role of each and everyone in the family, peace will reign the more, Col. 3:18-21, Eph. 5:25, Ephesian 6:1-3. By the time wives have submitted unto their husbands and the husbands love their wives the way they love themselves and the way Christ loves the church; there will be super relationship. When the children also play their role as expected, harshness will give way to joy and love and peace. A change of mindset will make every negative thing operating in our homes to cease. Allow the Spirit of God to work on you and remove self and pride. The devil’s desire is to see your family scattered and destroyed but God desires that His children should enjoy while on earth in their various home. Who do you want to rule your home? Make your choice wisely.
Mystery of Anxiety Bishop John Ogbansiegbe 0803 341 6327 (SMS Only)
Nature of fear 2
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y nature, there is the of feeling of the fear of shame, fear of defeat or scandal which includes stage-fright, fear of danger and death but psalm 19 from verse 5-7 gives us an extensive insight into the nature and dimensions of fear and thus states “Thou shall not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow, that flieth by bay, nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness nor or the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall by the side and ten thousand by my right hand but it shall not come nigh thee.” Terror by night includes the activities of thieves and armed robber, natural disasters, storms, nocturnal animals and reptiles, creatures of fantasy and imaginations for which Shakespeare said that: “it takes the eyes of childhood to fear a painted devil. They include all kinds of demonic operations especially of witches and wizards, attacking their victims both physically and in dreams. He arrows that fly by day may be those snare, or traps which you walk into without knowing during your day activities, may be you are surrounded by hypocritical friends which is the worst type of enemies anybody can have, may be you meet with them only in the day time in your office, market or business environment. May be you meet them in the club, association meetings or restaurants? They actually throw many arrows; arrows of conspiracy or backbiting. This type is dangerous because the victims are often ignorant or unconscious of what is happening around them. When they are eventually brought down, removed, displaced, afflicted, or even poisoned through food or water; their eyes will be open. But that is the opened eyes of a drowning man which is tantamount to nothing for a dying man. That was the case of Julius Ceaser, the great Hero and legendry warrior an Emperor of the then Roman Empire. He was really surrounded by those he tested and trusted as friends, but at the consummation of the conspiracy of these so called friends, they surrounded Ceaser and became channels through which these arrows by day came upon Ceaser, piercing his helpless flesh. He had his
eyes wide open, stained and soaked with blood from the wounds of these arrows by day. He saw his friend Brutus and advanced forward to him for solace, confort, help and protection. But Brutus, his best friend brought out his own arrow and pierced Ceaser who exclaimed “Even you Brutus.” These arrows by day are actually sudden unsuspected negative events. Whatever the case may be, God is still saying to you, “Fear not” the pestilence that walketh in darkness are those deadly blood sucking evil spirits that either comes as a sudden sickness or sudden demonic attacks with one singular objective or assignment of eliminating or totally annihilating their victims. Such cases have occurred where some babies are attacked with sudden convulsion, and for some adults sudden, stoke and paralysis in the midnight. In most cases, such victims die before reaching the hospital. The spirit before this pestilence has come to kill. That is why they chose the nigh and darkness so that every effort towards medical intervention will prove difficult and abortive. This was the type of pestilence that killed the first born of the Egyptians; yet for this type of pestilence God says “fear not.” Destruction that wasteth at noonday can be the outbreak of war, collapse of a high building where you are or even a bomb blast in a market square by suicide bombers and terrorists. It may be a bloody accident or plane-crash, yet God is saying “Fear not.” A thousand may fall by your side and ten thousand by your right hand but it shall not come near thee. It may be massive genocide being the result or aftermath of war killing many people before your presence, it may be the invasion of an epidemic which may be air borne water born or even sexually transmitted like AIDS. God is saying that you may be in the midst o these ugly events yet it shall not touch you. A brother in my church once gave a testimony of how a gang of robbers with highly sophisticated ammunition stormed their street, robbing 38 houses flat to flat, room to room, from no1, to 38. According to him, they spent the whole night on their street.
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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JUNE 5, 2016
faith
Insight
Rev. Femi Akinola www.thehebrewsng.com
01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864
The cage of mammon
“N
o man c a n serve t w o masters…Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:24 Jesus Himself reaffirmed that there are two ‘masters’ on earth; Jesus Himself and mammon who seeks to possess and control the hearts and lives of men. This is not to say in a literal sense that mammon is master in anyway who has capacity to reign over our Lord Jesus; but mammon can be master and/or king over the lives of vulnerable people who reduce their existence to materialism. The only entity that has the tendency and the captivating potency to contend with Him in this world is mammon. He’s the chief demon who wants to have total influence over money and the way it is spent in this world. The only people over whom mammon has no control are those who have genuinely committed their hearts and resources for the objectives and expansion of God’s Kingdom on earth. In the spiritual ranking of entities in satan’s kingdom, mammon is in the category of powers. He is the custodian of all ‘goodies’ and ‘treasures’ in the kingdom of darkness. All that is in its custody are those things which are stolen by the powers of darkness from believers and in turn demands for worship from them in order to give them the counterfeit of the original blessings God has for them. He has actually succeeded in his campaign to make many backslide from the faith giving heed to doctrines of the devil thereby making many put money and material possessions before the Kingdom in contrast to the commandment in Mathew 6:33. He is the spirit behind greed that makes many kill for money; makes Christians to pray and pray for money until they become frustrated and seek alternative means of getting it. According to Luke 4:18, the first assignment of Jesus is to the poor. This is because Jesus knows that preaching the gospel to a poor and hungry man without first meeting immediate needs could be an exercise in futility. So He came to set the poor free from the bondage of poverty of the spirit so that he who once was poor can through God’s blessing propagate the gospel too. No one is free from the temptations of mammon.
Even Christ was tempted with material things; Satan tried to manipulate Jesus into thinking the world belongs to him. How to know if one is in the cage of mammon • You cannot say the truth once money is involved or allow money control your actions. • When you can trade important relationships for money. • People who enter occultic covenants for money. • People who are very stingy or greedy; they’d rather be swindled than to give. • People who don’t tithe. • When you use God’s money to finance your business. • People who carry evil sacrifices and blood rituals for money. • When you love money than you love God. • The infidels; who make their family suffer untold hardship while they hide their money far and spend it on strange women and other unprofitable things. (ITim6:10; 5:8) The wealth of God’s Kingdom is not for the greedy but the selfless. Begin to take calculated steps to represent God here on earth in spreading His Kingdom message through prosperity. This goes beyond mere desires; you must work it out. God neither blesses your wishes, plans nor complaints; He orders and blesses the steps you take. You must start taking steps for your own financial emancipation so that you can fulfil His purpose on earth. God knows that when money takes possession of His children it will control their destinies, this is why He has blessed us already with every spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; our responsibility as Kingdom people is to command and manifest these blessings in and out of season. How do you escape from the grip of mammon? • Be a tither • Be contented • Begin with little and be faithful in it • Don’t be in haste to be rich PRAYER POINTS • I receive deliverance from the grip of mammon • I will not bow to mammon • Lord, bless the work of my hands • My Father, I will obey Your principles; answer me quickly …in Jesus name
Detained convert goes on hunger strike
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devoted Christian convert from Islam, who Iran authorities arrested in 2013 because of her religion, went on hunger strike to protest the maltreatment she is getting from officials of Evin prison facility. Maryam Naghash Zargaran, 36, is required for a regular medical care after undergoing heart surgery in 2010, but authorities turned a blind eye of her condition. “Since May 25 Maryam hasn’t left her bed. She is burning with fever and
has been on hunger strike to raise her protest against prison authorities’ indifference toward her health,” a member of her family told Mohabat News. A prisoner is entitled to a temporary release or leave for reason of essential health care, but Zargaran has been deprived of this privilege. She was arrested in January 2013, and was sentenced to four years in prison for “propagating against the Islamic regime and collusion intended to harm national security”. But her friend and for-
mer colleague Pastor Saeed Abedini said authorities dislike Zargaran after she abandoned Islam, and of her being active in organizing church activities. Abedini, a former Muslim, said he was a victim of persecution, adding the government arrested him more than once without legal basis or charges. “Every time I got arrested, some people around me left for fear. But Zargaran was the only one who stayed even until I was put in Evin prison. This woman never gave up or chose fear and doubt. She stayed with
us in Saeed Ministries until prison broke apart our ministry.” Abedini said. “She was the first underground female leader and one of the five leaders who helped us start churches before I became a pastor,” he added. Before going on hunger strike Zargaran had lost 25 kg, and her health continues to deteriorate, compounded by depression. It’s reported that her fellow prisoners showed solidarity with her by not accepting visitors even members of their family.
Habits of good vessel Visitation One lonely churchwoman died in her lonely apartment in a public building, and the church members did not know because they were poor in visitation. The immediate neighbours of the tenant rallied round, raised funds, carried the corpse to the woman’s village and helped the family with the obsequies. After about three months, a group of church members came to visit the dead! The neighbours did not only insult and curse the church; they also physically beat up the stupid church members who would only remember their member after three whopping months of absence from worship services.Besides financial commitment, social interaction is a vital and necessary requirement of church membership. You can’t say, “Well, it’s not just my nature to be a walk-a-about”. It is part of our corporate responsibility to visit and keep visiting each other so that we can grow together. Otherwise, some would grow off tangent, and some would not grow at all, no matter the quality of sermons we preach on them. Peace-making The primary essence of church membership in our private lives is “to guide our feet into the way of peace”, to help us stay out of trouble, both temporal and eternal. Some would wonder and ask, “Since when did the church become a magistrate court?” But since Old Testament times, those who served God had always acted as arbiters and mediators,
Discipling Corner
Rev. Frank Nwosu With facebook.com/frankfredsNwosu wwwlinkedin.com/frankfreds
08060746787,08099407497
As it is poor thinking to assume that your old and aged grand-father will continue spending on you at this age, so it will be poor spiritual disposition to keep collecting or expecting non-stop sponsorship from the Headquarters peace-makers and settlers of quarrels. Psalm 82 says, “Judge righteously”. Prov. 21:3 says “To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice”. In the Epistles,1 Corinth. 6:3, Paul said “Don’t you know that we will judge even angels, how much less things pertaining to everyday life?” In Matthew 5, Jesus proclaimed blessings on those who take out time from their very busy schedules to mediate and settle matters between disagreeing brethren. He specifically said those people are the real people to be called CHILDREN of GOD. To grow as children of God, we must be seen to be making peace, not to pretend that we are unaware of the quarrel between John and Johnson, or that the issue between Mary and Miriam is only their private affair. It is a satanic lie. It is not their private affair. The devil wants to use their fight to wound, and if possible, kill the church in the ensuing melee. To prevent that ugly prospect from being realized by the Devil, St Paul cautioned in Heb 12:15: “Let no root of bitterness spring up
among you, causing a trouble via which many will be defiled”. Of course, you know God will have nothing to do with a defiled church! James 4:1-4 makes it clear that disagreements and frictions hinder answers to prayer. Ayoung and growing church must not allow for such frictions which its Adversary may use as a subtle poison to stunt its growth. Even Paul begged Pastor Timothy to, please, appeal to Euodiah and Syntyche, Christian mothers in the church, to sheath their swords and allow peace to reign (Phil. 4:2-3). The shameful thing is that some women in church behave like the Hebrew who asked Moses “Who made thee judge over us?” He was unwittingly showing that he was either ignorant of the God-appointed saviour or deliberately refusing to recognize his church leader. When we refuse to allow the pastorate to mediate in our disagreements, it means we are refusing to recognize the leadership of the church. It is a social misdemeanour that can equally
be interpreted as subtle intention to commit treasonable felony. Giving to the headquarters and other parishes of the church A healthy habit that every young and growing church must sustain is that of not only engaging in self-entertaining ceremonies, but also giving money, liquid cash, to the headquarters of the Church. As we send money and gifts regularly to our parents in the physical realm, so is the parent church immensely deserving of gifts, material and financial. This is not a newfangled theology, but a standard practice from the very inception of the Church. Acts and the Epistles show Paul go to the Jerusalem headquarters with a delegation, to give tributes of money and other materials. As it is poor thinking to assume that your old and aged grand-father will continue spending on you at this age, so it will be poor spiritual disposition to keep collecting or expecting non-stop sponsorship from the Headquarters. What if the patriarch dies, won’t the children survive? Those children who are willing to grow will become strong, independent, even powerful, but those who chose to be forever tied to the apron-strings of bigdaddy will be weeded out by what biologists and geneticists call natural selection. Weaklings disappear from the competitive space in less than no time. A growing church must devise creative approaches to meet its financial needs, and extend a hand of fellowship to other parishes and church the headquarters.
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news
Gunmen kidnap Igbo woman in Benue Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI
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unmen, over the weekend, kidnapped an Igbo business woman, simply identified as Mrs. Charity in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. The woman in kidnappers’ net hails from the neighbouring state, Enugu. In a statement, issued yesterday in Makurdi, by a panIdoma social cultural group, the Opiatoha K’Idoma, the group condemned the wave of kidnaps in the area and described it as disturbing. The Secretary of the group, Mr. Adoka Adaji, in
condemning the kidnapping, decried the continued captivity of the Vicar General of Otukpo Catholic Diocese Rev. Adeyi and called on security operatives to do all within their powers to unravel the mystery behind the incident. He also admonished those providing safe haven for the criminals to desist forthwith or be treated as criminals. He stated that the prevailing criminal activities in the state was capable of affecting commercial and economic activities of the people as investors would not operate in a state of insecurity.
FG wants to gag Fayose, say Ekiti lawmakers Sola Adeyemo Ibadan
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wo lawmakers in Ekiti State House of Assembly, yesterday, restated their unflinching support for their embattled governor, Ayodele Fayose, saying that the plan by the Federal Government to prevent him from traveling overseas was part of grand plans to gag him. While speaking with Sunday Telegraph in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Segun Adewumi, said that he and his colleagues were sure there were plans by President Muhammadu Buhari’s All Progressives Congress (APC) administration to ensure removal of the governor from office and take him out of circulation because of his criticisms of the government’s policies. Reinforcing the submission of Adewumi, the House Committee on Information, Gboyega Aribisogan, disclosed that “the DSS had been directed to use what-
ever means to keep Fayose out of circulation for fear of his truncating the President’s re-election bid by 2019”. While calling on well meaning Nigerians and other stakeholders to appeal to President Buhari to save the nation from being turned to an authoritarian state, the lawmakers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)controlled state vowed not be cowed by the security agents’ threat “as their antics would soon be exposed like it happened in the Hon. Afolabi Akanni’s case”. Adewumi asserted that the government had no power to stop a sitting governor from making foreign trips when there was no court order restraining him. “Even ordinary Nigerians do not require clearance from the Department of State Services (DSS) or any security agency to travel outside Nigeria unless in compliance with court order, and as at today, there is no court order placing travel restrictions on our governor, Ayodele Fayose.”
Community tasks Ikpeazu on bursary, jobs
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ha Ngwa Community people from Abia State who are based in Ekiti State have called on the state governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, to extend scholarship/bursary supports to their children across tertiary institutions in Ekiti State. In a release signed by Edwin Nwalosu (Chairman), Chetachi Emmelogu (Secretary) and Ahamba Chiemeremezie (Spokesperson), the community also urged the governor to give employment to their children/wards who have graduated and seeking employment. The release said: “Our children in Institutions in Ekiti State are also deserving of bursary/scholarship awards too as others elsewhere and
that those who have finished their education deserve employment”. It added that the community in Ado-Ekiti had always been actively involved in many developmental efforts in their home state for many years, which made them to feel they deserve some favours from the leadership of the state. They commended Governor Ikpeazu for stepping up the tempo of development across the state, acknowledging several completed and ongoing road projects and various other projects in Abia and other parts of the state. They said such developments could only come from someone who is determined like Governor Ikpeazu.
Former UN Envoy tasks Buhari on poverty alleviation Biodun Oyeleye
F Ilorin
ormer Nigerian permanent representative to the United Nations, Professor Ibrahim Gambari has asked President Muhammadu Buhari, to pay close attention to measures and steps needed to overcome grinding poverty and wants among Nigerians. Gambari, who noted that break from the past, which the Buhari-led government is craving for, needs a collective endeavour to open a new chapter in Nigeria’s national life, also canvassed a new compact, which Nigerians and their leaders
will serve as a basis for a collective audit of the performance of those in power. The former envoy, who is currently Chancellor of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, made the call at the fourth convocation of the university, yesterday. Gambari recommended a wholesale attitudinal change combined with new codes of leadership and followership across different segments of the society and argued that opening of the new gateway into the future of the country could depend on one person with the force of character. He said: “Institutions of governance, many of them
playing dual but complementary roles in nationbuilding, will need to be reinvigorated so as to serve as the bedrocks they were meant to be in the administration of public affairs. “Personalities, however, well-meaning, must be made to learn to subordinate themselves to institutions. A new compact will need to be established between rulers and citizens that will serve as a basis for our collective audit of the performance of those to whom we entrust our national destiny. “In the 17 years since the emergence of the Fourth Republic, Nigerians have strived to build their coun-
try into Africa’s and one of the world’s largest democracies. However, there has been a deficit of delivery, which in popular parlance, is referred to as the absence of democratic dividends.” However, Vice- Chancellor of the institution, Professor AbdulRasheed Na’Allah said the management of the institution was excited over the number of students that bagged first class degrees this session. “We have 23 first class graduates. This is over 100 per cent of what we had last year. This is an exceptional performance and it shows that our students and staff are committed to academic excellence,” he said.
Front row (L-R) Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun; President, Trade Union Congress, TUC, Comrade Bobboi Bala Kaigama; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Senator Lanre Tejuoso and Secretary to Ogun State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa, after the Amosun was present with an Excellence award by the TUC in Abuja, on Friday.
Anambra: 5000 denounce idolatry Pamela Eboh Awka
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ver 5000 indigenes of Umuchu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, yesterday, denounced idol worship in their area, attributing the height of poverty level in their community to years of abandoning God. The people, who assembled a number of clergymen, led by the Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt. Rev Ephraim Ikeakor, an indigene of the area, at the community’s Nkwo market square, vowed to do God’s will henceforth, as a deliberate move to attract divine favours and
blessings. The 12 villages that make up the town participated in the prayer sessions that lasted several hours. Speaking on the topic: ‘Refusing and Resisting Shame,’ Bishop Ikeakor lamented what he called a shame of abject poverty, untimely deaths, unending dependence on parents by youths, late marriages and unprecedented cases of divorce in Umuchu town, blaming the situations on idolatrous life style of some people in the area. In his words: “It is painful that while other communities are making progress in various human endeavours, Umuchu people are left out. There is
no reason this town cannot produce governors, commissioners, permanent secretaries and heads of Federal Government agencies or parastatals in this generation. “But I want to assure you that God manifests His miracle during difficult and abnormal situations. In this land, God will raise people that will use their contacts and influences to change the fortunes of the people. Our youths will prosper and parents will reap the fruit of their labour.” The cleric further regretted that while some people have devoted themselves to ensure that the situation was changed for the better, others were still paying deaf ear to the issue of
idolatry and adultery. Archdeacon of Umuchu Archdeaconry and Vicar of St. Thomas Parish, Umuchu, Ven. David Obiagbaoso said the programme was enthroned to attract God’s blessings and favour for the good of every Umuchu citizen, irrespective of denominational affiliations. Lending his voice, an indigene of the town and a former governorship candidate of Progressives Peoples Alliance, (PPA), in Anambra State, Chief Godwin Ezeemo, who also participated in the prayer session, acknowledged that the yearly event was beginning to turn things around in the area and called for its sustenance.
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Armwrestling Federation boss applauds Muscle Fury UK over sponsorship deal p.54
Muhammad Ali, titan of boxing, passes away at 74 p.55
Saraki mourns ‘boxing legend’ Muhammad Ali
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p.55
Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu daposotu@yahoo.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited
Daniel Igali: Team Nigeria behind schedule for Rio Olympics The Rio Olympic Games will begin in August, will you say you are satisfied with the Team Nigeria’s preparations for the Games as the chairman of the Technical Commission? I will want to choose my words carefully so that I won’t appear to be giving you facts that are not properly represented on the issues on ground, but to say the truth of the matter, Team Nigeria is far behind schedule in the preparations for the Rio Olympics. In terms of preparation, the months of May and June are supposed to be heavily competitive months to put the athletes in the various sports who have qualified for the Olympics competing in camps around the world to get in great shape. And July is supposed to be the month when you come back together to assess what you have done and where mistakes have been made, to make corrections so as to compete for medals in the Rio Olympics in August. We all know there has been delay due to the fact that the country’s budget was just released a few months ago. As we are talking, I don’t know if any individual sport has been given money to travel abroad for training ahead of the Rio Olympics. You know the Nigeria Olympic Committee and the Sports Ministry work hand-in-hand, with the Ministry having a upper hand, but as the Chairman of the Technical Commission of the NOC, I am not happy with the level of preparation of the Team Nigeria. I do understand that some sports have been called to camp in Abuja and they have been training for the past two weeks. But overall, all things being equal, in terms of preparations for the Rio Games, we are not where we are supposed to be. As president of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, you have invested so much in the country’s wrestlers. Are you optimistic that your wrestlers will pick valuable medals at the Rio Olympic Games? It’s good you are asking this question, fortuitously about three days ago we were watching videos of past fights and one of the wrestlers had gone on the web and had seen one of my matches in 2001, and it was an interview I granted a journalist in April where I told him that our World Championship was in September, I was already the World and Olympic champion and I was telling the journalist that I would be competing four times before the World Championship in September. I am just trying to tell you that if a World and Olympic champion would fight four times before a World Championship, then these relatively inexperienced wrestlers even need more. I am afraid if my wrestlers would get all those top international competitions before the Rio Olympics in August. In terms of fitness, my wrestlers are okay, we play basketball, we wrestle and did our commissioning, but for me, they are where they are supposed to be at this point, but if they don’t compete, there is danger because no amount of fitness would take any Nigerian athlete to the Olympics to win medals and that is my concern.
Former world and Olympic wrestling champion, Honourable Daniel Igali, who is also the chairman, Technical Commission of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC, is not happy that Team Nigeria is behind schedule ahead of the Rio Olympics which begins in August. He told DAPO SOTUMINU in this interview that if he is asked to rate Team Nigeria’s prospect of winning medals at the Rio Olympics, he would rate the country’s chances zero One of your female wrestlers was stopped from travelling to Turkey for a final Olympic qualifiers which sadly ruled her out of the Rio Olympics. What advice do you have for the Foreign Affairs Ministry to prevent such ugly situation in the future especially when the host country had accepted to stage the world in such competitions? If you monitored that situation, not one government official made any statement about it, this is most unfortunate. I was the only one making statement on the inappropriateness of what the Turkish embassy did to the Nigerian wrestler. I made sure the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was aware, so also the Sports Ministry and the Nigeria Olympic Committee, not one of them came out to say anything on the matter. If it was the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Wrestling Federation that hosted the final qualifiers to a main Olympics and the Nigerian embassy refused Turkish wrestlers entry visas, it would have become a diplomatic impasse between the two countries, it would have generated inter country problem. But Nigeria does not care. The country does not give a hoot about who compete for them. Nobody spoke on the matter, luckily the member Representing my constituency in the House of Representatives in Abuja raised the issue on the floor of the House as a matter of national emergency, that matter is under investigation at the moment, which is supposed to be the case. But I want to tell you that I was disappointed with the manner with which all the relevant authorities I reported to, handled the case. The matter should have been treated with a better poise and lots of reprimand and urgency. In terms of advice to forestall a repeat of this ugly situation, I do know that some Nigerian sports federations are in the habit of using their letter headed papers to do visa racketeering, this is something we need to handle not with kids gloves but with firmness, but outside that, every Nigerian athlete that is representing the country needs to be protected. At no point should any athlete or group of athletes who the Sports Ministry knows are representing Nigeria in international competitions be refused travel visas by any country, be it Canada or the United States or any international federation. This has happened to us several times and Nigeria must device a means to stop this kind of unwholesome practices as a matter of urgent public importance. What do you think Nigeria should do to bring back the glory days of sports witnessed in the 1980’s and early 90’s?
Sometimes I have reservations about these glory days, I still don’t know why Nigerians have been classifying the 1980s and 90s as the glory days of the country’s sports, what spectacular things did the country do in the area of sports that time that made that period our glory days. Nigeria is a country of 180million people and I keep giving the example of Cuba with a population of less than 10million. It’s a very poor country, extremely poor country. Cuba go to every Olympics and comes back with nothing less than 10 medals, so when we talk about glory days of Nigerian sports I don’t know what we are comparing ourselves to. Nigeria has never done well in sports. We have never performed to where we should be in international sports. We need to device means of getting to where we should be to pull our weight in sports, as it is Nigeria should not be coming back from any summer Olympic Games with nothing less than 10 medals. Anything short of that is a failure as far as I am concerned. And I we have to put a stamp on that. This is June, it is shocking that Nigeria is still complaining of not having money to prepare its athletes for a competition as serious as the Olympic Games. Such a country is not ready to go to the Olympics. We are not ready, we are just paying lip service and I must tell you that we are not being fair to our sportsmen and women and also to our country’s image. Because
sports cost money and money translates to medals when it is used to prepare the athletes adequately. As far as I am concerned Nigeria has decided not to do well in sports and that is where we are today and we are going to remain static with this attitude. In time memorial in Nigeria, people chosen as Sports Ministers are not always sports technocrats, they end up learning on the job to the detriment of the country’s sports, do you think this has contributed to the dwindling fortunes of sports in Nigeria? You see that issue, I have had discussions on this in the past and for me, it is not the people appointed as Sports Ministers that have done us more harm than good but the system we operate in Nigeria. I was in the Canadian sports team for about 10 years and in that period we had about three sports ministers, I don’t know of one of the ministers that was a technocrat. But because of the system, a sports minister cannot just come to change the system, so the system remains. The same issue props up when somebody
Continued on page 54
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Sport
Armwrestling Federation boss applauds Muscle Fury UK over sponsorship deal Dapo Sotuminu
T
he president of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, Engineer Samuel Jackson, has applauded the management of Muscle Fury Nutrition and Gym, United Kingdom for their magnanimity in giving the Nigerian federation sponsorship back-
ings to the tune of 80,000 pounds ( N40.5 million). The sponsorship package between the Muscle Fury Nutrition and the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation was facilitated by the CEO of High Grade Consultants United Kingdom, Mr. Sanjo Kanmi Jones, who is also a former Nigerian ex-international hockey player, based
in Littlehampton. The high point of this partnership deal signed, is the aspect which makes Muscle Fury Nutrition and Gym, the official sponsor of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation for both local and international championships. The Chief Executive Officer of Muscle Fury Nu-
trition and Gym, Mr. Neil Batchelor, told the Armwrestling Federation president, Samuel Jackson, who was also in Littlehampton United Kingdom, when the deal was signed, that, his company would take up the full responsibility of the sponsorship of the scheduled international armwrestling championships
which would be named the Muscle Fury Tournament in Lagos in September this year. The Armwrestling Federation would be given the sole franchise to market the Muscle Fury products in Nigeria which would be the first time the product will coming to the African continent.
The CEO of High Grade Consultants United Kingdom, Mr. Sanjo Kanmi Jones, left, with the CEO of Muscle Fury Nutrition and Gym, Mr. Neil Batchelor, after the sponsorship package for the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation in the UK
Daniel Igali: Team Nigeria not good for gold at Rio continued from Page 53
said the Minister for Health should be a medical doctor. I have lived in Canada for more than 20 years there was no time in this period that a Health Minister in Canada was a doctor. All of them are either lawyers or other professionals, because the system is in place. We have technocrats in the system. Our problem in Nigeria is that we don’t have any system, anybody who comes do so with their own system. One minister will come today and say this is what I want to do, I want all the 31 sports in the country to go to the Olympics. Now, that is a policy statement, everybody working with the minister will start running up and down. Another time another personality comes as sports minister and he wants only seven sports to go to the Olympics. How are we going to progress as a nation? Nigeria is where the president of a national sports federation is told that he cannot travel for an international competition because the Ministry of Sports does not have money and we are talking sports. We are talking about a situation where the International Olympic Committee said they are not political and it was based on this that the sports federations are formed. All countries are part of sports even if you are being condemned politically around the world. When you have an issue in sports you don’t go to the open courts
but take your case to the Court of Arbitration for Sports. But we have forgotten that, this cannot stand in a country like Nigeria. The Sports Ministry has also forgotten that, they are like a bank who keeps money for the sports federations and releases it when there is need for it, but in Nigeria, because the Sports Ministry are in charge, they tell you the competitions you can go and the ones you cannot go all on grounds on nonavailability of funds. You want to go to the Olympics in two months’ time and money is released and just to justify that the sports budget for the games is spent you now decide to take everyone to Korea just to show that the money has been spent. Until we stop this kind of laxity we shall remain where we are and if you ask me now how many medals do I think Nigeria would win at the Rio 2016 Olympics, my answer would be zero as we have not done enough to win medals at the Rio Olympics in August. I am a very optimistic person, I still believe that from now till Rio 2016 in August, we still have a chance of doing well if we correct all our wrongs because athletes have been training in their various bases abroad since last year, some resumed full training this year. We have athletes who can do well. The most important thing now is the competition for athletes, but sad enough as at June all our athletes are still at home, except some
of them who are abroad like the basketball team, those in athletics because most of them are based in America, Spain, Germany and Portugal doing their thing. But the home-based athletes are still in Nigeria and are not competing, that is the bane, that is the problem and we can only succeed until we correct that and make sure our athletes compete within this short period. I am not talking about camping, where athletes will go and camp abroad, that is not the issue now.
Neil Batchelor, has promised to adjust his programmes in September so as to attend the international championships in Lagos. Other packages included in the sponsorship are the free training facilities and camping at the Muscle Fury Gym for two weeks and accommodation at the Premier Inn in the United Kingdom where he has a deal. This package also include the total kitting of the Nigerian team to all international championships, this will run for three years renewable after its expiration. The UK-based company will also be donating 400 T-shirts to selected Junior Secondary schools students in Nigeria where the sports will be encouraged. The company has also donated an ultra-modern machine to print on Tshirts for major events in Nigeria. He has also given a commitment to donate international Armwrestling medals for the international championships in September and subsequent competitions. The outfit will be sending top class professional British Armwrestlers male and female who are experts in both hands to the country to train Nigerian athletes and the coaches on a regular basis towards upgrading the standard of the sport in Nigeria.
Ita-Giwa praises Yobo’s feat in sports
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ormer Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters, Dr. Florence ItaGiwa, (OON) has showered encomiums on the retired ex-skipper of the Super Eagles and Everton of England legend, Joseph Yobo, who retired from active football with a testimonial in his honour last week. In a statement signed in Lagos, Ita-Giwa also congratulated him on his appointment by the Rivers State Government as Senior Special Assistant on Youth and Sports Development. According to her, Yobo served the nation meritoriously and was dedicated especially when called upon for national duties. She added that, his appointment is another opportunity to impact tremendously on the youths especially those who look up to him as a role model. The statement reads in parts: “I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a patriot and a dynamic youth and sportsman, Joseph Yobo as he retired from football and his appointment as an adviser to the Rivers State Governor, Barrister Nyesom Wike. “I am so proud of his achievements and I am proud to be identified with him. He is a good man that has carved a niche for himself in the round leather game. I want to use this medium to call on youths of this nation to emulate him and be dedicated to their chosen profession and get to the pinnacle of their career.
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Muhammad Ali, boxing titan, passes away at 74 M
uhammad Ali, the three-time world heavyweight boxing champion who helped define his turbulent times as the most charismatic and controversial sports figure of the 20th century, died on Friday. He was 74. Ali was the most thrilling if not the best heavyweight ever, carrying into the ring a physically lyrical, unorthodox boxing style that fused speed, agility and power more seamlessly than that of any fighter before him. But he was more than the sum of his athletic gifts. An agile mind, a buoyant personality, a brash self-confidence and an evolving set of personal convictions fostered a magnetism that the ring alone could not contain. He entertained as much with his mouth as with his fists, narrating his life with a pattern of inventive doggerel. Ali was as polarising a superstar as the sports world has
C
huka Momah, a prolific boxing analyst yesterday described Mohammed Ali, who died on Friday as a boxer of exemplary humanity, whose legacy would always be remembered and cherished. Ali, 74, one of the greatest legends of the sport, passed away on June 3. at a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona,U.S., after being admitted on Thursday. He had contracted a respiratory illness, a condition that was complicated by his years of suffering the Parkinson’s disease.
ever produced - both admired and vilified in the 1960s and ‘70s for his religious, political and social stances. His refusal to be drafted during the Vietnam War, his rejection of racial integration at the height of the civil rights movement, his conversion from Christianity to Islam and the changing of his “slave” name, Cassius Clay, to one bestowed by the separatist black sect he joined, the LostFound Nation of Islam, were perceived as serious threats by the conservative establishment and noble acts of defiance by the liberal opposition. Loved or hated, he remained for 50 years one of the most recognisable people on the planet. Muhammad Ali, died of septic shock due to unspecified natural causes, a family spokesman said on Saturday. Ali, who had long suffered from Parkinson’s syndrome, died at 9:10 pm on Friday, spokesman Bob Gunnell said at a press confer-
ence in Scottsdale, Arizona, not far from the facility where Ali was hospitalised for a respiratory issue In 1996, he was trembling and nearly mute as he lit the Olympic caldron in Atlanta. That passive image was far removed from the exuberant, talkative, vainglorious 22-yearold who bounded out of Louisville and onto the world stage in 1964 with an upset victory over Sonny Liston to become the world champion. The press called him the Louisville Lip. He called himself the Greatest. The boxing legend Muhammad Ali will be laid to rest in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, on Friday, June 10 at 2pm local time, surrounded by the people who knew and loved him best and a world inspired by his life and career. The funeral will be open to the public. Former President Bill Clinton, Billy Crystal and Bryant Gumbel will give eulogies.
Momah, Obi say Ali’s legacy won’t be forgotten Momah said in Lagos that one of the ways that the upcoming boxers could immortalise Ali as the `greatest boxing legend’, was by imbibing his ethics and morals, which made him outstanding all through his boxing career. “All aspiring boxers should strive to be half as great as he was. They should be honest about it. “Ali had worked hard to reach the top of his profession as amateur
and pro-boxer and was humble; his death is so heart breaking, because he was not just a boxer, he was a human rights activists. “He changed the face of boxing and paved a way that, upcoming boxers should take advantage of reaching the top,’’ he added. Renowned sports analyst Mitchel Obi of Mastersports International, Lagos, who also acknowledged Ali as the greatest boxer of all
time, said he gave boxing a meaning. “Ali was phenomenal. He was superman. A man who refocused our mind to who black Americans were and advocated the virtue of racial equality; he reminded us of what humanity was all about.’’ Ali, born as Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr, remained the only three-time lineal world heavyweight champion; he won the title in 1964, 1974, and 1978.
Saraki mourns ‘boxing legend’ Muhammad Ali Chukwu David Abuja
T
he President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki, yesterday, expressed
Sport
shock and deep sadness over the death of a ‘great boxing legend,’ Muhammad Ali. Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, said Ali would be remembered as one of the heroes of the movement for black emancipation in the United States of America (U.S.A) as he made sacrifices to prove his black heritage. Saraki said: “It is with great pain that I received the news of the death of one of the greatest African-American icons of our generation, Muhammad Ali. He may have gone but his many passions and humanitarian services will preserve his memory in my heart for a very long time. “Ali who at birth was named Cassius Marcellus Clay was not only an enigmatic and colourful boxer, he was also a good and
devout Muslim who devoted his life to the worship of Allah. There is no doubt that the fire of black nationalism he contributed immensely to ignite and promote led to the rise of many African-Americans in the context of their country and ultimately to the eventual emergence of President Barack Obama as the first black president of the United States,” Saraki said. He commiserated with Nigerians who loved late Ali, President Obama, all African-Americans, Africans in diaspora and the world in general for the painful loss of the boxing legend. While praying Almighty Allah to grant the soul of the departed a place in Aljannah Fidaus, Saraki called on his immediate family and loved ones to take solace in the fact that Muhammad Ali lived a life worthy of emulation.
Muhammad Ali’s top 10 quotes 1. “I don’t count the sit-ups. I only start counting when it starts hurting because they’re the only ones that count. That’s what makes you a champion.” 2. “Silence is golden when you can’t think of a good answer.” 3. “I wish people would love everybody else the way they love me. It would be a better world.” 4. “It isn’t the mountains ahead that wear you down. It’s the pebble in your shoe.” 5. “The will must be stronger than the skill.” 6. “Don’t count the days. Make the days count.” 7. “The fight is won or lost far away from the witnesses, behind the lines, in the gym and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights.” 8. “I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was. I figured that if I said it enough, I would convince the world that I was really the greatest.” 9. “Float like a butterfly. Sting like a bee. You can’t hit what your eyes don’t see.” 10. “Impossible is just a word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.”
Solution to Cross Word Puzzle
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SUNDAY, JUNE 05, 2016
Okogie: Buhari needs to be very careful }31
Score card of Buhari’s one year change: Are Nigerians happier? (Part 2) ENCORE We conclude today the score card of Buhari’s one year change: are Nigerians happier? STILL ON CORRUPTION We cannot solve the menace of corruption with the same mindset we first used in festering it. We must do things differently, so we can get different results. Corruption in Nigeria has been institutionalized. It is now a way of life, a norm rather than an exception. Says Albert Einstein, “We cannot solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them”. If the PMB administration genuinely wants to fight corruption and not to mainly decimate the opposition and critical segments of the society, then he must uproot it holistically, the devil in ignorance, the satan in poverty and the evil spirit in greed, individually and collectively. He may not see to its conclusion. He need not. But he would have laid an imperishable foundation that future leaders would build upon to redeem this nation from its captivity by a tiny clique. Rome was not built in a day. The anticorruption fight must be fought realistically and pragmatically. We need, not strong men, but strong institutions. The former is ephemeral. The latter is eternal. Fighting corruption must therefore have a measurable template. There must be a total reorientation of our debased national ethos and warped value system, from primitive acquisition to one of honour, character and dignity. PMB sir, shun the praises of propagandists, sycophants and narcissists around you. Do not see some sections of the country as enemies, because they did not vote for you, as some have made you believe. As father of the nation, you must overcome political segmentation, and see the whole nation as your constituency. You should see and do things from the perspective of a leader, not a partisan politician. The appointments so far made are unfortunately too lopsided in favour of the North, where you hail from. This administration still has three years to get it rights. Let us just assume that the last one year was used to cross the Ts and dot the Is. In his Easter message, PMB admonished Nigerians that his change agenda would work if “citizens imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ and place national interest above selfish, personal and group interest”. This is true. But what is truer is that the President himself and leaders of his party, as the pathfinders, need this counselling more than others. They have so far blamed the shortcomings of this administration on the past. This is now sounding rather too boring, like a stuck record. It was John Burroughs who once theorised that “a man can fail many times, but he is not a failure until he begins to blame somebody else”. The government must start delivering on its numerous promises. Our leaders saw the situation before they made their campaign promises. They were not on planet Mars, but were all major players at different levels, in the last 16 years. Nigerians cannot be expected to continue to make suffocating sacrifices while Senators are busy buying exotic SUVs for themselves with tax payers money. The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) ran an article on 7th July, 2009, titled ‘’Is Nigeria a failed State?” Legal luminary, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, in the book,” Zoning To Unzone: The Politics and the Power of Politics in Nigeria”
The
Nigerian Project
MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only) authored by me, opined … the fact remains that there are consensus ad idem amongst all writers, columnists, pontificators, polemists and commentators alike that, all is not well with Nigeria….” The above postulation clearly shows that our dear country, Nigeria, is on the edge of a precipice. We have to be vigilant to nip annihilating dangers in the bud. But wait minute, how did we get here, or allow ourselves become an object of derision as a pariah nation of abasement by the international community? NOW THIS A few minutes spent inside any major city in Nigeria will provide ready answers: Bad leadership at all levels, cronyism, nepotism, tribalism, mediocrity, inter-religious crisis and inter-ethnic challenges are some factors that have left Nigerians disoriented, disorganized and disenchanted. We spurn those who speak different language and practise different faith from ours. We shamefully display the degeneracy of our mind by our negative disposition to fellow Nigerians. In our circumstances, the lack of a sense of history and emotional intelligence could have mortal consequences on us all, including our nation. School curriculum has surprisingly abolished history! God, save us. It is a general mistake by Nigerians to think that it is only people who look like, or agree with us that are good for everything, whilst those who disagree with, or do not resemble us, are good for nothing. It was John Henry Naimbanna (1767 - 1793), Sierra Leonean son of King Naimbanna, who said, “if a man should rob me of my money, I can forgive him; if a man should shoot at me, I can forgive him; if a man should sell me and all my family to a slave ship, so that we should pass all the rest of our lives in slavery in the West Indies, I can forgive him; but if a man takes away the character of the people of my country, I never can forgive him.” The Sierra Leonean prince understands what many Nigerians don’t: When a nation loses its distinctive character, it loses its essence. All over the world and throughout history, nations are known for their distinctive character. The British are famous for courtesy, the Germans for grit and resilience, the Jews for industry, while the world gravitates towards Asia for health and well-being. Uncle Sam is celebrated as a land of liberalism and opportunities. What is Nigeria or are Nigerians celebrated for? Tell me, readers. Former Zambian President and humanist, Kenneth David Kaunda, considered this challenge when he said, “let the West have its Technology and Asia its Mysticism! Africa's
in the world, with a population of less than 3 million people. The Chinese had Mao Zedong, who pioneered the economic boom the Chinese enjoy today. Mahatma Ghandi was prepared to die through fasting and prayer than watch his people destroy themselves during religious conflicts in India. but what about Nigeria? AND THIS The history of most Nigerian leaders is one of mediocrity, divisiveness and polarization. Leaders who took turns to rape Nigeria for corrupt, selfish, religious and ethnic reasons. Like Germarn playwright, Bertolt Brecht (1898 - 1956), said, “ANDREA: unhappy the land that has no heroes. GALILEO: No, unhappy the land that needs heroes”. Successive leaders have serially disappointed Nigerians since the amalgamation of the southern and northern protectorates in 1914. Roosevelt built bonds amidst diversity, created emotional empathy, awareness and cooperation and managed conflicts. He called these the “New Deal”. The Bolsheviks tagged it “Hands up for Socialism” (a five-year period of concentrated development efforts in USSR which transformed their economy from a rural to an industrialized nation). Mao Zedong called it “the great lead forward.” Whatever the nomenclature used, they were the same concepts and ideas used by various leaders to develop their people, economically, socially and politically.
gift to world culture must be in the realm of human relationships.” Paradoxically, we now receive lectures from the West on how to live in peace with our fellow country men and women. A virtue that God freely gave to us, to share with the rest of the world, but that we foolishly took for granted. How pathetic! What quality of leaders do we have? In Nigeria, we have always been saddled with leaders who promise their followers heaven and give them hell. They say one thing and do another. This makes it extremely difficult for followers to believe our leaders, even when they have genuine intention, trust having been eroded. Skepticism and pessimism reign supreme. Experience counts! In all cultures and climes, there are records of leaders who mentored other leaders and whom successive leaders modeled after. In America, we had Franklin Roosevelt,who ruled from the wheel chair and birthed the LAST LINE United Nations. The British had Sir Winston Are Nigerians reading and digesting this Churchill, who fought and defeated Hitler Sunday sermon on the mount of the Nigerian through sweat and blood. Singapore had Lee Project, by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, OFR? kuan Yew, who singlehandedly transformed his nation to one of the greatest economies • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN
Cross Word Puzzle
with Olulana Kayode 08023183727 Instructions on how to play the game •With reference to the ‘clues across’ and ‘clues down’ below, you shall try to provide answers to the clues, by writing the answer in the puzzle box provided on the left side. •The number in parenthesis indicates the total number of letters making up the solution or answer you will provide. •Keep on answering all the questions until all the spaces in the puzzle box are completely filled up. Good luck!
Clues Across 1 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 16 17 18 22 23 24 25 26
Former Lagos State Governor, (7). Protective clothing, (3). Expressing disapproval, (3). Computer interface for peripherals, (3). Nigerian commercial bank, (3). Part of face, (4). 'Money' in Hausa language, (4). Thailand, abbr. (2). Tool for cutting, (2). Single short ringing sound, (4). Sharp pointed tip, (4). Athletic Fed. Of Nigeria, abbr. (3). Night hunting predatory bird, (3). 2nd Republic Plateau Governor, (3). Baked food with pastry, (3). Late Nigerian Premier, (7).
Clues Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 13 14 15 19 20 21
City in Benue State, (7). Area on Lagos Mainland, (6). Gov. Ibikunle Amosun's State, (4). Late Nigerian Dictator, (6). Ex Adamawa state Governor, (4). Flying mammal, (3). Brazilian former footballer, (7). Former Senate President, (6). Professional dancing partner, (6). Shaft on which wheel turns, (4). Gov. Mimoko's State, (4). Short sleep, (3). Turn to page 55 for solution
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