Sunday telegraph sunday, january 17, 2016 vol 2 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

Col. Emma Nwobosi (REtd)

Why we kept our flat mate, Obasanjo, out of 1966 coup •Biafra still possible, not by force

SUNDAY Sunday, JANUARY 17, 2016 Vol. 2 No. 697

}4,20,37&38

Sanctity of Truth

/newtelegraph

N150

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

NIGER DELTA

MARY LAZARUS

Tension AS MILITANTS BLOW UP MORE PIPELINES }5

•I’m not involved -Tompolo •We are prepared to deal with any crisis -Army

I won’t compete for any man }36

NEWS

Lassa fever: Lagos places 132, hospital under watch

APPROPRIATION BILL SCANDAL:

How 2016 Budget was swapped

•Buhari never withdrew budget -Garba Shehu •Why Senate blew the whistle

}4&5

lIndex victim came in from Zaria nine days ago }8

NEWS

Anenih to EFCC:

Jonathan owes me N180m}5&39

•We didn’t benefit from Dasuki’s largesse -CAN, PFN

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 17.01.16 BODY & SOUL

Funmi Ajila-Ladipo wants to see the fashion industry in Nigeria grow to international standard

Buhari’s anti-graft war Despite successes recorded so far, Federal Government’s current anti-corruption war has come under attack

}15

BUSINESS

Mixed grill Stoppage of allocation of forex to Bureau de Change will benefit only the commercial banks, analysts says

}47

FAITH

Dasuki’s largess As the controversial $2.1 billion dollar arms deal tears the nations apart, PFN, CAN distance themselves

}39

SPORT

No gold for Nigeria Nigerian Olympian and athletics legend, Yusuf Ali, says that Team Nigeria will not win gold medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio

}53

Magazine

Editorial

Passionate about fashion

}24

POLITICS

SUNDAY

Lassa Fever Niger State has the highest cases of Lassa fever in the country, says Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole

}6&7

Time to focus on solid minerals sector

n the face of dwindling oil prices in the international market and internal challenges faced by the country in the past one year, it has become imperative, more than ever before, for Nigeria to demonstrate more commitment to its solid minerals sector as a source of revenue and employment. With oil currently selling below $30 per barrel, the current N6.08trillion budget is dead on arrival, having been predicated on a $38 benchmark and a production estimate of 2.2 million barrels per day in 2016. Government has, for this reason, indicated interest in focusing on non oil revenues “by broadening our tax base and improving the effectiveness of our revenue collecting agencies.” Interestingly, that was the fulcrum the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde, harped on during her recent visit, advising the Federal Government to raise its Value Added Tax from the current five per cent to seven or 10, to bring it closer to what obtains in other countries like Britain and Germany. She also called for removal of oil subsidy. While it is not out of place to broaden the tax base to cover more areas and people currently exempted or are yet to be covered by the current tax regime, the idea of raising VAT in a country whose industries are either relocating or operating below capacity is like self delusion. Besides, infrastructure like power supply and good roads are in short supply, besides there is also growing unemployment and dwindling purchasing power. Apart from the above, the Federal Government seems not to have broken from the past but, is still fixated on the oil sector. Further pointer in this direction is the fact that President Muhammadu Buhari chose to be Petroleum Minister in the current dispensation. This, to us, is like travelling an old path. It is high time the Federal Government focused its attention on the solid mineral sector as a gigantic foreign exchange earner and source of

employment. Good enough, Nigeria has heavy reserves of solid minerals such as gold, uranium, coal, tin, tantalum and iron. Others, according to the Federal Office of Statistics, are kaolin, barite, limestone, dolomite and glass sand. Available statistics show that during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure, a thorough investigation was conducted into the nation’s mineral deposits when Dr. Oby Ezekwesili was the Minister of Solid Minerals. The report indicated that most of these minerals, except gold, exist in commercial quantities, thereby making it a huge investment opportunity. If, indeed, the current budget intends to serve its purpose - lay the foundation for sustainable growth, revive our economy, deliver inclusive growth to Nigerians and create a significant number of jobs - President Buhari needs to stop the fixation on oil by matching his words with action. Ab-initio, the President should have headed the Ministry of Mineral Resources as a way of drawing unprecedented attention to the sector, not only to save it from illegal miners who are currently having a field day, but turn it to a gold mine for the entire nation. Nonetheless, the time is now; the nation is almost late from diversifying its economy. Its currency, the Naira, is having a free fall even as foreign reserves used in cushioning it continue to dwindle. It was gratifying last week that Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the Minister of Solid Minerals, said that the Federal Government would soon allow state governments to explore mineral deposits in their domain. That has the semblance of efforts in this direction, but of great importance is the need for solid mineral to be excluded from the Exclusive List through constitutional amendment. There is no need to reevent the wheel, but to consolidate on existing report on the nation’s solid minerals and draw a strategic plan to explore investment, revenue and massive employment opportunities for national growth.

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

Funke Egbemode

Managing Editor, Business & Strategy n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor, Publication & Operations n Emeka Obasi

Managing Editor, South n Emeka Madunagu Managing Editor, North & Abuja n Laurence Ani

Editor n Ayodele Ojo Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah Editor, Saturday n Waheed Bakare Deputy Editor n Tunde Sulaiman

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Congratulations!

Barr. James Ocholi

MINIster of state for Labour aNd eMpLoyMeNt

My family and I, join millions of Nigerians to felicitate with you on your recent appointment as the MINIster of state for Labour aNd eMpLoyMeNt by His excellency, president and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of the federal republic of Nigeria, General Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR). Wish you a successful tenure in office. Signed: Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu

Former Governor, Abia State.

SUNDAY 17 JANUARY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

How 2016 budget was swapped

•Buhari never withdrew budget -Garba Shehu •Why Senate blew the whistle •Presidency out to cover up its bogus expenditure Onwuka Nzeshi ABUJA

n apparent desperation by the executive to cover up the bogus allocations earmarked for the Presidency in the 2016 national budget led to the withdrawal of the original budget, supplanting it with another version without the knowledge of the legislature. Contrary to the earlier speculations that the Presidency ordered the withdrawal of the budget proposal to enable it adjust some of the figures in view of the rapid slide in the price of crude oil, it has now been established that the main reason for the secret withdrawal was to remove some of the provisions made in the budget of the State House. Trouble started when the lawmakers resumed duties after the holidays and were gearing up to commence debate on the budget only to find out that the there were two different versions of the document. Sunday Telegraph learnt that the withdrawal, which was allegedly masterminded by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate) Senator Ita Enang, was done in such a manner that those from whom the original budget was ‘stolen’ did not realise it until it was too late. The 2016 Appropriation Bill, which was presented before the joint session of the National Assembly last

December, was greeted with a loud applause but little did anyone know that the document would trigger some unpleasant incidents sooner than later. As demanded by the Nigerian Constitution and parliamentary tradition, President Muhammadu Buhari delivered a beautifully-worded speech which gave a background to the economic scenario under which the budget was prepared and captured a summary of the basic parameters and indices of the budget. Thereafter, Buhari laid on the table, a box believed to contain the details of the money bill. He then took a bow as a mark of respect for the parliament as well as a signal that the Executive had done its beat and the Legislature was at liberty to take over the budgeting process. Sunday Telegraph gathered that whereas the box laid on the table was allegedly symbolic and therefore empty, the few copies of the budget brought by the executive were shared and kept in the custody of the Committees on Appropriation in both the Senate and House of Representatives. An insider source said that since the parliamentarians proceeded on their Christmas and New Year holidays a day after the budget was presented, no work was done on the budget. However, while the recess lasted, the Presidency was rattled by media reports on the budget showcasing the humongous amount of money allocated to the

L-R: Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; Gen. Raji Rasaki (retd) and his wife, Sen. Fatimat Raji Rasaki; wife of the Oyo State Governor, Florence and Oyo State Governor, Sen. Abiola Ajimobi and Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, at Sen. Fatimat Raji Rasaki’s 60th birthday anniversary dinner at the Civic Centre Lagos...yesterday

State House for various items including food and exotic cars. Sunday Telegraph learnt that President Muhammadu Buhari felt emotionally shattered after his first media chat, where he was asked to justify his change mantra and commitment to prudence in government if he had budgeted so much for his own comfort. It was gathered that Enang, allegedly acting on ‘instruction’, moved into the parliament and retrieved the document with relative ease. He was said to had approached the Clerk of the Senate Committee on Appropriation (names with-

held) and requested to see the copies of the budget to enable him crosscheck some items. A source told Sunday Telegraph that when Enang got the documents, he allegedly proceeded with them to his office where he removed some of the pages and replaced them with some new pages containing new figures. Attempts by our correspondents to get Enang to react to these allegations were not successful as his mobile phones were constantly switched off. Even text message, “Distinguished, good afternoon. I had been calling your line since morning and not get-

Don’t rule out Biafra –Col. Nwobosi Chijioke Iremeka

gainst the background of the statement made by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that Biafra is dead and those trying to reengage the Federal Government forcefully on the creation of Sovereign State of Biafra, one of the participants in the 1966 coup, Col. Emmanuel Nwobosi,(retd), has said, in an exclusive interview to Sunday Telegraph, that it is still feasible but not by force. Nwobosi, who was Obasanjo’s flat mate as Majors in the Nigerian Army in 1966, stated that though he could not fathom how the dream of a Sovereign State of Biafra would be realised, it is achievable. He expressed optimism

that Biafra will happen one day, possibly through a referendum. He said: “How it’s going to happen, I don’t know. I’m not a soothsayer. But if you tell me that Biafra is going to happen by force of arms, I will say, forget it. I know that through history, people have been able to campaign for a cause through time, organised themselves so well that it lingers on and on.” According to him, in most cases, it lingers to a point that some people will say, forget about it, while others will persevere. “I hear about Nnamdi Kanu and I have listened to the radio a couple of times and I will say it is not the kind of news you will want to hear every day, no. Everybody has something that will make them tick; some will hear

it and feel that they have taken a cup of tea and are alright for the day but that’s neither here nor there,” he said. On the possibility of the emergence of an Igbo leader to lead the cause, Col. Nwobosi said: “As Odumegwu Ojukwu died, people started clamouring for the next Igbo leader. One thing about leadership is that you cannot get it by taking titles and raising your hand. It doesn’t happen that way. You have to be accepted by the people. A leader emerges; you don’t force them on people. Sometimes, a situation creates a leadership. “I don’t want to make it look as if we are hopeless. I have learnt something, when I was a cadet in the army. A Sergeant-Major used to teach us never to

say that anybody is useless because immediately you say it, such person becomes a demonstration of a useless person to someone, who wants to see a useless person.” He noted that the kind of leaders that the country has today are not the type the country and the region are yearning for, saying that a lot of people have scrambled for too long since after the war and still struggling to survive. He added that the types of leadership that the region experience today are not selfless. Nwobosi also spoke about how the then Major Olusegun Obasanjo, who was a flat mate of his and Ifeajuna, escaped from participating in the coup. See full interview on Pages 20, 37 and 38.

ting through. I wanted to speak with you on the budget saga and what needs to be done. Tnx,” sent to these same lines, were not replied. However, Chairman Senate Committee on Finance, Senator John Enoh said that those who did the budget swap capitalised on either the innocence or ignorance of those in whose custody the document was kept. Asked why such an operation could be carried out without detection in a system manned by enlightened people, Enoh said: “The swap was made simple given the fact that they brought that budget and immediately after it was laid. We adjourned that same day. If it is in your custody and somebody requested for it without you suspecting that that was the intention, it must have been given away out of ignorance. The only thing was that the guys were not smart enough to return it before we resumed.” It was learnt that the Senate decided to raise the alarm about the missing budget to expose the scam and the hypocrisy of the executive. President Muhammadu Buhari had, during his media chat, questioned the rationale behind the purchase of cars by members of the National Assembly and promised to meet with the leadership of the legislature to get them to halt the car purchase. This position taken by the President was in keeping with his austere posture, but it painted the legislators in bad light and portrayed them as extravagant per-

sons who were insensitive to the plight of the people and the challenges of the economy. Meanwhile, the Presidency had denied ever withdrawing or substituting the budget presented to the joint session of the National Assembly. Apparently dissociating Buhari from the purported action of Enang, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said that nobody except the President could withdraw the budget. He also said that so far, the President had not withdrawn the 2016 budget. In a reaction to the saga via his Facebook page, Shehu Garba wrote: “Enquiries about the budget: Nobody except the president can withdraw the budget. As far as we know, he hasn’t done that. The copies in their hundreds have been delivered to both chambers of the National Assembly. ”By tradition, once the budget is submitted, it ceases to be our property. Enquiries as to where it is, should be directed to the appropriate quarters.” However, Shehu evaded Sunday Telegraph’s enquiries on whether the Presidency would sanction Enang for the role he allegedly played in the missing budget scam. To this text message, “Oga Shehu, good afternoon Sir. We are doing a story on the ‘missing budget’ and we need to confirm from you why FG chose to change the budget in secret. Was Sen. Ita Enang acting on his CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 17 JANUARY, 2016

News

Wale Elegbede ormer Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih, has told the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that former President Goodluck Jonathan is owing him N180 million. Anenih, in a letter to the EFCC over the arms procurement scandal, stated that he spent over N440 million of his personal money on the failed 2015 re-election bid of Jonathan. The former Works Minister noted that most of the expenditures were on special political assignments on the instruction of the former president. He said Jonathan only refunded N260 million of the amount spent, leaving a debt of N180 million, which the former president has not paid. The N260 million refund was made through the office of the former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd). An impeccable source told Sunday Telegraph that Anenih told the anti-graft agency that he only provided his account details for the president to enable him to get a refund of the expenditures. Anenih explained to the EFCC that there was no way he could have asked Biyi Adegoroye, Emmanuel Onani

here was tension in the Niger Delta yesterday as some oil installations in the area came under attack by armed youths said to be loyal to Chief Government Ekpemupolo (alias Tompolo), former leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, which suspended activities some years ago. The attacks, which begun last Friday, allegedly affected oil installations and pipelines in Delta State, but took a new dimension on Saturday when the militants operating “from fast gun boats fitted with General Purpose Machine-gun (GPMG) and other weapons,” descended on oil installations in Warri creeks. A source told our correspondent that “oil and gas pipelines in the creeks of Gbaramatu and Ugborodo areas of Warri South-West and those in Egbema, North local government areas of Delta State were affected in the latest attacks.” He added: “The gas pipeline which came from Olero creeks to Escravos, were destroyed in the latest attack. Several crude lines were sabotaged

Anenih to EFCC: Jonathan owes me N180m

the former president how he was going to source for the fund. The former minister noted that he was not a direct beneficiary of the N260 million spent on the president’s instruction. Our sister publication, New Telegraph, had exclusively reported that N100 million was given, each, to former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Olu Falae, and erstwhile governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Ladoja. Falae and Ladoja collected the money on behalf of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Accord Party, respectively, to shore up support for PDP and Jonathan in the March 28, 2015 presidential election. Jonathan lost the election to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Falae and Ladoja have confirmed the receipt of the money. Also, a northern group led by Second Republic Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, got N63 million from

the N260 million Anenih shared. Yakasai confirmed the receipt of the N63 million. He stated that the money was meant for mobilisation and post-election peace advocacy in the North. Apart from Falae, Ladoja and Yakasai, Anenih stated that he made some out-of-

pocket disbursements on the instructions of Jonathan. These, according to him, include N25 million to the former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Muktari Shagari, and N35 million to a delegation of local government leaders from Katsina State.

Besides, he stated that he incurred expenses, especially hiring aircraft, on his nationwide tour to reconcile party members. This assignment, according to him, was on the instruction of the former president. Anenih said the expenses have not been refunded till

date, according to EFCC sources. He lamented that despite his efforts to stabilise the party and commitment to post-election peace, he was “pressurised to resign as BoT chair on trumped-up charges of anti-party activities and alleged overbearing influence.”

L-R: Director-General, Save Democracy Group Africa (SDGA), Dr. Ifedi Okwenna; Chairman, Governing Council, Senator Ibrahim Mantu; Chairman, National Planning Committee, Alhaji Ghali Umar-Na’abba and vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, during a courtesy call on the Vice President, by SDGA, in Abuja…yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Tension in Niger Delta as militants attack oil installations while Makaraba, Otunana (Uton-Nana), Abiteye and Dibi flow stations were bombed. “The pipeline, which conveys gas from Saghara to Chevron, was also destroyed and there are several persons trapped in the communities. The kind of explosives and bombs they used are not like those of before; the effects were felt in several communities as they went off intermittently,” a local source told our correspondent. Destroyed in the latest attacks were facilities of the “Nigerian Gas Company, Chevron Nigeria Limited and Neconde among others,” the source said. There were indications that the attacks may spread to some parts of Niger Delta like Bayelsa and Rivers states. Some companies operating in the area were allegedly “forced to airlift their workers over the weekend when militants blocked the waterways

and restricted movement of transport boats.” Tompolo , who has been at dagger’s drawn with the Federal Government over the alleged N34 billion theft was arraigned in absential last Friday with the former DirectorGeneral of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Patrick Akpobolokemi. But Tompolo, in his reaction to the allegations condemned and wondered why his name was associated with such act. “I am not responsible for the attack and I condemn it as a dastardly act. I am aware that some persons may want to destroy oil installations and link it with me. That was why I said before time that I have nothing to do with it,” Tompolo said through Mr. Paul Bebenimibo, his media aide. “I could not have gone ahead to carry out such action, knowing that every finger will be pointed at me because of my case

with the Federal Government,” he said, and expressed his willingness to assist government to fish out the perpetrators of the attacks. Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has renewed its vow to deal decisively with all forms of crises that threaten the security of the nation. Responding to Sunday Telegraph’s enquiry on the capacity of Operation Pulo Shield in the Niger Delta, to contain the seeming resurgence of pipeline vandalism, the Acting Di-

rector of Defence Information (DDI), Brigadier-General Rabe Abubakar, said: “The Nigerian military is adequately prepared to quell any crisis not only in Niger Delta but any other part of the country. “For the avoidance of doubt, no security agencies including military could allow some individuals or group to cause insecurity in this great country of ours. “Those who may want to do so should have a rethink as crisis never pays as there is no alternative

to peace. We should know that this country is more than anybody.” The DDI added: “The military will continue to serve to ensure one nation, one destiny. Citizens should learn from other country where conflicts rendered them stagnant and undeveloped. “This is our country We have to join hands to develop it and not to destroy; military will never allow any individual or group interest to be above the nation interest,” Abubakar stated.

How 2016 budget was swapped

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

own or with the consent of the executive? If he acted alone, would FG sack and prosecute him for this embarrassment? Pls kindly respond. Tnx”, sent by one of our correspondents, Garba replied, “Our statement issued two days ago is final on this issue”. Similarly, Sunday Tele-

graph contacted the Ministry of Budget and National Planning to ascertain if it was aware of the budget swap and what roles its officials might have played. A top official in the ministry, who spoke in confidence with one of our correspondents, said the work of the Ministry of Budget and

National Planning ended at the point it submitted the prepared budget to the Presidency and it was adopted by the Federal Executive Council. According to the official, it was not the business of the ministry if the budget presented to the National Assembly was changed, stolen or missing.

SUNDAY

The Sunday Magazine SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Lassa Fever: FG, Niger State Niger State has the highest cases - Minister No, it’s a mysterious attack, not Lassa fever’ Community head

Niger State has the highest incident of Lassa fever in the country with 35 suspected cases and 16 deaths. DAN ATORI x-rays the controversies trailing the deaths in the state and government’s denial

arious casualty figures have been bandied since the outbreak of Lassa Fever in the country. In Niger State, the death of 16 persons has been linked with the disease, but the State Commissioner for Health and Health Services, Dr. Mustapha Jibril would disagrees. He said only one confirmed case of the disease has been identified in the state and no death recorded. His position has, however, been refuted by the Minister of Health, Prof Isaac Adewole, who, while visiting the state last week said that Niger has the highest cases of the disease with 35 suspected cases and 16 deaths in the country as a whole Prof. Adewole insisted that the 16 persons that died last year in Fuka, passed on as a result of the infection, Dr. Jibril said this was not were no confirmed and there are no active case of Lassa Fever in the state. To him the deaths that people are talking about happened four months ago, and the bodies were buried almost immediately according to Islamic rites and so, no test was conducted to ascertain whether they had the disease. The District Head of Fuka community, Alhaji Mohammed Lawal Doma, who lost 16 members exclusively told our Correspondent when the chief played host to the Health Minister that the people that died last year did not bleed or vomit blood as claimed, but died as a result of mysterious attack by some “occult persons who used witchcraft powers.” He said: “The people that died last year did not pass away as a result of Lassa Fever, but they died during the raining season due to bewitching by some occult persons. We just set up a new market and normally when that happens, the spirit or witches and wizards will have to take bloods of some people of the community. “I also fell sick at a time and a lot of people started calling me to ask if I have Lassa fever, but look at me, I am okay; I did not bleed through the nose or vomit blood. “When we saw the way things were going, we resorted to spiritual help, Pastors, Imams and traditional healers came to pray and since then (August and September, 2015) , we have not recorded any death. Some people who were sick too during that period are still alive today and are okay.” It should be noted that the symptoms of Lassa Fever typically occur one to three weeks after the patient comes into contact with the virus. These include fever, retrosternal pain (pain behind the chest wall), sore throat, back pain, cough, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, facial swelling, proteinuria (protein in the urine), and mucosal bleeding. Neurological problems have also been described, including hearing loss, tremors, and encephalitis. The Minister for Health had said when he paid a courtesy call on the Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello in Minna that he visited the community after records

showed that the state has the highest case with 16 deaths and 35 suspected cases. Prof. Adewole who visited the community for the first time allayed fears that there was serious crisis, saying “I am not in Niger to find faults, but to find facts about the outbreak especially as we begin our nationwide surveillance assessment exercise. We have not received any reports from Niger State since the outbreak. We did not know of the outbreak in the state until December and this has showed our failure in notification system in the country.” When our correspondent asked the Minister on the basis for linking the death of 16 persons to Lassa Fever, contrary to the claims of the community leader since they were not tested or confirmed to be infected by the disease, he said: “We get feedbacks from all over the country and from the Centre for Disease Control communicate with us every day. We cannot confirm whether the 16 persons that died last year in Fuka, passed on as a result of the infection because they have been buried.” Dr. Jibril disagreed with the Minister, insisting that “blood samples of those suspected to be infected by the disease which was taken for laboratory test at the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control in Abuja and Lagos respectively only confirmed one positive case. “Right now” according to him “there is no death case. It is only one person that the test result has confirmed to be positive. And this person was ill for about two months ago. He is well now but still being observed. “Presently, there is no active case of Lassa Fever in Niger State, because the deaths that people are talking about happened four months ago, and you know in Islam, if anyone dies he or she is buried almost immediately. So, these cases will only be referred to as suspected cases of Lassa fever from the symptoms that they presented with.” The Minister, however, commended the state governor for taking proactive measures in handling the situation. He said: “Mr. Governor, I am happy that there is no new notification from Niger State since the last. Niger State is now on top of the situation. Such death is abnormal and should be prevented, especially when such death is preventable. Every life counts and every death also counts”. He further blamed the outbreak on the failure of breakdown of the country’s notification system, describing the disease as the second most important crisis currently faced by Nigeria after the insurgency. One of the suspected survivors, nine year old Santu Saidu who could hardly speak until her mother arrived, said she did not bleed through the nose or mouth but she only experienced headache and severe stomach pains. Another survivor Isiaku Alhaji Mahmud (24 years) while lamenting the death of his grandmother, who was among the 16 persons that died last year, said he only had severe headache and severe stomach pains.

Patient in an isolated ward

Prof. Adewole

A survivor

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Sunday Magazine

Presently, there is no active case of Lassa Fever in Niger State, because the deaths that people are talking about happened four months ago, and you know in Islam, if anyone dies he or she is buried almost immediately. So, these cases will only be referred to as suspected cases of Lassa Fever from the symptoms that they presented

differ over death of 16

“But the people of the community refused to report the case because they believed that it was a spiritual issue. They claimed that they just set up a new market and normally when that happens, the spirit or witches and wizards will have to take bloods of some people of the community. “And so, they sorted for spiritual help believing that the sickness was a mysterious attack on the people.” Prof. Adewole disclosed that the largest number of casualties experienced by the country was in 2012 when almost 2000 Nigerians were affected by the disease. It reduced gradually and last year (2015) we had 441 cases. But over the last three months from

our records we have recorded up to 94 cases.” He further assured that the Federal Government will complete the incomplete Primary Healthcare building in Fuka to boost health service in the community. Furthermore, he said: “A nationwide alert system is on to track the disease, and except for the case in Plateau State, no person-to-person or hospital acquired infection has been recorded. So far things are under control but states and local governments should put an alert system in place to enable us track new cases whenever it happens”. The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Alhaji Ahmed Ketso, called for incorporation of traditional healthcare healers into the National Primary Health Care delivery policy. “The need for their inclusion has become necessary because they are the first healthcare giver that the rural dwellers consult.” The Emir of Minna Alhaji Umar Farouk Bahago while calling on the people not to panic urged students and corps members of the Government Day School in Fuka community, who have refused to return to school to resume as the disease has been put under control.

...Abia, Ogun, Rivers states to establish more isolation centres Kunle Olayeni (Abeokuta), Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA)

He said: “I did not bleed through the nose or mouth. It’s a mysterious attack, not Lassa Fever. Otherwise I would have died too since last year because I was the one who took care of my grandmother even till her death. We ate the same food. Some people who were sick too during that period are still alive today. I do not believe it is Lassa Fever.” On when the fever broke out, the State Commissioner for Health and Health Services, said “We were just informed through

the State Ministry of Education that a school had 11 child who were ill and one of them is the son of the principal, who had one of the symptoms and was bleeding through his nose and mouth. “But this happened more than two months ago. And because the people refused to see anything medically wrong with the illness that was parading in town. There was a case of close to 16 people that died. And they died after having symptoms of Lassa Fever.

s part of proactive measures to contain any outbreak of Lassa Fever in their respective states, the governments of Ogun, Abia and Rivers have established more isolation centres to complement the existing ones. Speaking in their respective states, they said this would be complemented by enlightenment campaigns on the spread of the disease and treatment of victims. The Ogun State government has set aside three hospitals in the state, which have been dedicated for possible isolation and treatment of Lassa Fever patients. The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Babatunde Ipaye, who disclosed this at a press conference in Abeokuta, urged residents not to panic over the outbreak of the disease in neighbouring states of Lagos, Ondo and Oyo. Ipaye, who was flanked by his counterpart in the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Chief Dayo Adeneye, declared that no case of Lassa fever has been reported yet in the state. He, however, noted that all measures to curtail possible outbreak had been put in place by the state government, urging residents to always maintain good personal hygiene and keep their environment clean. The commissioner said the government has intensified public health education and awareness campaign towards preventing the spread of the disease to the state. He noted that the state had mounted surveillance in its 20 local government areas, saying border towns especially are being monitored to check the disease. Ipaye advised members of the public to promptly report any case of the disease to the state epidemiologists on 08033591033 and 08034214893 as well as hotlines for Lassa Fever notification on 09099140121 and 09099140122. He also disclosed that the state government had already began discussions with the Federal Ministry of Health to ensure the supply of anti-viral drugs as an emergency preparedness strategy. Federal Medical Center, Umuahia has also indicated intension to commence the construction of additional Isolation Centres to complement the existing one within the

hospital. Addressing the hospital community during a sensitisation campaign organised by the Department of Community Medicine of the hospital, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Chuku Abali said building of an additional isolation centre was part of the hospital’s action plan to identify and isolate all cases. According to Dr. Abali, though the state is yet to record any case of Lassa Fever, the proactive measures being adopted by the management and staff of the hospital was to be prepared should there be any case of any outbreak. In his speech, the Head of Department, Community Health Services, FMC, Umuahia, Dr. Godwin Okafor, said the sensitization walk was to educate the hospital community and others on the outbreak of Lassa Fever in 11 states of the country and on the need to protect themselves from coming in contact with the fever caused by Lassa Virus and transmitted by rats. The Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, Dr. Theophilus Odagme, also confirmed that three persons have died, while more than 200 others are currently under observation following the outbreak of Lassa fever in the state. Odagme made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Port Harcourt on Saturday, saying up to 50 people, who had contacts with the first reported two cases could be out of observation because they had not shown symptoms of the disease. The commissioner said the medical doctor, who died after contracting the disease, had been buried after consultations with the family. Odagme said the doctor died at a hospital outside Port Harcourt and that contacts he had hours before his death were among those under observation. According to the commissioner, government has set up a special centre to manage new cases of the disease, noting that no new case has been reported. He also said that the State Government was working with the World Health Organisation and the Federal Ministry of Health to tackle the disease. “We have been working with WHO and the Federal Ministry of Health. They are with us in ensuring that their supports come on board,” he said.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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Lassa Fever: Lagos places 132, hospital under watch

...Index victim came in from Zaria nine days ago Muritala Ayinla and Appolonia Adeyemi

ollowing the outbreak of the deadly Lassa fever in Lagos, the state government yesterday placed 132 possible contacts of the infected person under surveillance. A 25-year-old undergraduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, Ahmed Fasasi, was on Friday, tested positive to Lassa Fever at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH. Hence, Ahmmadiyyah Hospital located in Ojokoro area of Lagos where the first case of the disease in the state was reported is now under surveillance. The 15 in-patients as well as 25 health workers in the facility are being monitored for the next 21 days To be monitored also are other possible 92 contacts

of the patient. Giving the update on the outbreak, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris said though the patient is presently managed at the LUTH, there will be no service delivery at Ahmadiyyah Hospital until further notice. Allaying fear among the residents, the Commissioner said the state is doing everything possible to prevent the spread of the diseases. He added:” The state and federal governments are doing everything possible to control the spread of the Lassa virus. In line with international standards, the contacts of the patient are being tracked for followup. Drugs and other materials have also been prepositioned at our designated facilities; and isolation centres have been prepared to manage suspected and con-

firmed cases.” To effectively manage the scourge and prevent the spread, Dr Idris said all the isolation wards at the 26 General Hospitals and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH have been reactivated. He said: “The Mainland Hospital and all other General Hospitals have been placed on the alert. The Anti-viral drugs for the management of cases are available “Ambulances have been dedicated to respond to referral and transportation of cases. Airing of jingles on Lassa fever on electronic media. Distribution of factsheets on Lassa fever to the Medical Directors of LASUTH & 26 General Hospitals in Lagos State, Medical Officers of Health in all the 57 LGAs/LCDAs, all other agencies of the Ministry and AGPMPN

for circulation to all health workers in their facilities. “ Reactivation of isolation wards in LASUTH and 26 General Hospitals in Lagos State for isolation of any suspected case.” Meanwhile, the first patient whose case was yesterday confirmed by the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) to be Lassa Fever in Lagos, came in from Zaria, Kaduna State nine days ago. He had been ill for about nine to 10 days. He had similarly spent about seven to eight days in a missionary hospital at the Ahmadiyya Missionary Private Hospital, Agege where his condition worsened before he was referred to LUTH for further treatment. In a related development the tracing of at least 40 people who had contact with the patient, also began yesterday.

Doctored 2016 budget: Senate hits back at Akande ...As APC chieftain calls for constitution review Chukwu David Abuja and Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

he Senate yesterday, hit back at the former interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, for describing the claim that the 2016 budget was missing from the Upper Chamber as an indication of the ‘indiscipline’ that produced its leadership. The Senate said it was regrettable that a man of Akande’s status would respond to mere speculations without cross-checking his facts or worse still eager to latch on to any opportunity to bring to disrepute the leadership of the Senate because he failed to get his choice candidates elected. In a statement signed by its spokesman, Senator Aliyu Sabi, the Senate urged Akande to check his records properly so that he could see that “at no time did the Senate say the 2016 budget was missing”. Rather, Sabi noted that the legislative house had insisted in several official statements and press interviews by its principal officers that the budget was not missing but that two different versions produced available. “We have said it several times that the budget was not missing; rather that two versions of the details of the budget exist and this is no longer in doubt as the Presidency has equally admitted this. “We expect a man of Akande’s calibre to cross-check his facts and take us up on our words. That he decided to ignore the facts and make comments on speculations is regrettable. He is a man who had served in government. He is a leader of the party with the majority in the Senate and he has several chan-

nels of cross-checking facts as against speculations.”, Sabi stated. The spokesperson further said that, contrary to the description of what happened as indiscipline on the part of the leadership, the position of the present Senate leadership was a demonstration of the regime of openness, transparency and accountability in the Red Chamber. In the past, he said, such a development would have been swept under the carpet. Meanwhile, Chief Adebisi Akande yesterday charged the Mohammadu Buhari administration to re-write the Nigeria constitution to allow every federating unit be self sustaining. The party chieftain made the charge while speaking with newsmen during an event organised to mark his 77th birthday in his home town, Ila-Orangun, Osun state. Chief Akande described the constitution currently in use in Nigeria is misrepresentation of reality in the country. He stated that the constitution is a product of the military junta which was written by one man and according to him, it has created acrimony and confusion on many crucial issues in the country and condemned it outrightly. “The present administration must re-write the constitution to take us to the promise land. This is a democratic era, if re-written by those voted in at different helms of affairs; it means everyone of us has re-written it to allow every federating unit to be self sustaining.” Chief Akande who frowned at fiscal federalism, said he was an old school politician that believes in maximum of 18 states, minimal of 6 states meaning that, the whole Yorubaland should be a state.

The Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Umar-Garbai, (left), in a hand shake with the Minister of Sports, Mr. Solomon Dalung, at the 50th Commemoration of the demise of Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sardauna of Sokoto lecture, in Kaduna. State... yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

One dies in Lagos Obasanjo bags Masters in Theology, as NOUN graduates 10,000 students Secretariat auto crash Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

ormer President Olusegun Obasanjo has added to his academic qualifications as he on Saturday alongside other students of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) graduated at the university’s 5th convocation ceremony. Chief Obasanjo, who had earlier graduated from the University with first degree in Christian Theology, enrolled for master’s degree in the same course and graduated Saturday with other prominent Nigerians like the Emir of Hadeija, Adamu Maje and paramount ruler of

Agwu, His Royal Highness Felix Okechukwu Asad. According to the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Joshua Tenebe, the former president, who was represented at the ceremony by one of his daughters, will continue with his PhD in Christian Theology. “It is interesting to know that former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (GCFR) will be graduating with a Masters Degree (MAChristian Theology) having met the requirements for the award, during the convocation. Having been given admission to study MA/PhD in Christian Theology, Chief Obasanjo will continue with his PhD ful-

ly,” Professor Tenebe said. Other notable Nigerians, who graduated included an over 70-year-old retired Naval Officer, Rear Admiral Orissa, who graduated with 1st Class in Mathematics, 78-year-old Chief Femi Balogun, the Mayegun and Tunwase I of Isara, who graduated from the School of Law, a blind student, Mr. Obinna Bede, who bagged B. Ed English from the Abuja Study Centre, as well as Udo Ukeme Effiong, who emerged the best graduating student with the highest score in First Class grade of 4.71. Professor Tenebe, who commended President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration for releasing

funds through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) for the construction of structures at the university’s permanent site, also appealed for more funds to be able to adequately equip and furnish the completed projects. Earlier, Chancellor of the University, Eze Ogbunechendo of Ezema Olo, Igwe Ambassador Lawrence Okolio Chikezie Agubuzu had lamented the discrimination against graduates of Open University especially their exclusion from the mandatory one year National Youth Services Scheme and the inability of law graduates to proceed to the Nigerian Law School.

Muritala Ayinla

ragedy struck Saturday morning at the main entrance gate of the Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja following a multiple accident in which one person was killed and a number of others sustained injures. Sunday Telegraph learnt that the incident occurred when a truck driver lost control and skidded off the road to the other lane and rammed into other vehicles at the gate. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Fire Service, police officers from Alausa Division, and

Civil Defence Corps officials had a hectic time managing the incident. Speaking on the incident, the General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Mr Michael Akindele said the truck driver, identified as Muraino, died, while the motor boy, an adult male suffered a fracture and was taken to Lasuth.

CHANGE OF NAME

OSEGHALE

I, formerly known as Aigbokhan Karl Oseghale, now wish to be known and addressed as IkhifaAigbokhan, Karl Osaghale. All former documents remain valid. The general public and Zenith Bank Plc please take note.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

News Dan Atori Minna

ormer Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, snubbed yesterday’s local government elections in Niger State. Sunday Telegraph gathered that turnout of eligible voters was very scanty at the polling units of IBB, Abdulsalami and the immediate past governor of the state, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu. It was gathered also that IBB was out of the country alongside his daughters Aisha and Halima, while his son, who was in town did not participate. Also, the Father in-law to the state governor, General Abdulsalami did not participate in the elections that has very low turnout. Dr. Aliyu, also stayed

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Niger polls: IBB, Abdulsalami, Aliyu others boycott elections back in Abuja, ignoring the Peoples Democratic Party, as the turnout in his polling unit was very unimpressive. The APC Chairman in Bida, Alhaji Shehu Salihu, told our Correspondent on phone that the low turnout is a direct response to the Friday incident. He said: “Although, voters came out but the turnout is very poor. The electoral materials have arrived but maybe people are scared there might be crisis.” In Suleja, security men flooded the town after the bloody clash that ensured between the APC and PDP on Monday. The town is as

silent as a graveyard as eligible voters failed to turn up for the exercise. A voter, Idris Bala, who refused to participate, said: “Why would people come out to vote when they (APC) lied to us. When the APC government came we thought real change has come but since they took over governance in 2015, it has been hell. So, most of us here have decided not to vote because they already know who will win.” Another voter, Mr. Dan Isaac, said: “If we vote, at the end of the day, they will not allow the real winner to emerge. We are tired of being used. “Although, it’s peaceful but

the turnout is very poor. I can say that whether it is 10 people or 100 people that turned out we want to see the end of the exercise.” One of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) agents, Gbakuta 1 in Bosso LGA, Aminu Banze Musa, lamented the low turnout saying: “It is as a result of apathy. The people seem to be tired. You can see when the materials arrived and when will accreditation start? This is plan by the APC to rig the elections “. In a related development, the Niger Independent Electoral Commission cancelled and postponed the local gov-

Wife of the Niger State Governor, Dr. Amina Abubakar Bello, casting her vote, at the Alkali Mustafa Ward, during the Local Government Council Elections, in Kontagora…yesterday

Shun criticisms, former Deputy Speaker tells Buhari Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

ormer Deputy Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adetunji Orisalade, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari, to ignore criticisms of opposition politicians and focus on his good works. Speaking at the weekend, Orisalade, said President Buhari has enough of the carry over of misgov-

ernance of the administration of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to clear and should devote his time doing just that rather than being swayed by misguided condemnation. According to Orisalade, opposition politicians, who have been blaming him for instituting probes and introducing many other redeeming programmes across various sectors of the country, were indirectly seeking to

institute failures in his administration, for Nigerians to experience no needful change. The APC chieftain explained that if the party must actually live out its ‘change’ tag, governance must be done differently, especially by exposing and bringing to justice whoever has been found to have purloined common treasury in whatever way. He said: “That Nigeria is in a mess is a fact that

confronts us everyday, everywhere and in many ways. We have to admit that. But, the fact that the country belongs to all of us must make us do the business (of governance) differently this time. “We spent 16 years in a darkness foisted upon us by a party that became more of a monster, feasting on the blood of Nigerians and destroying legacies bequeathed ages ago with horrifying abandon.”

Police warn MASSOB against planned Kanu protest Charles Onyekwere ENUGU

he Enugu State Police Command has warned the members of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MAS-

SOB) to be cautious in the pursuit of their cause. The warning is coming on the heels of recent threats by the group to embark on fresh protests across the entire South-East and South-South states over the continued incarceration of

the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr.Nnamdi Kanu by the Federal Government. MASSOB had issued warning late last week to re-commence demonstrations beginning from tomorrow to press home their

demands for the immediate release of Kalu. But in a release yesterday, the command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ebere Amaraizu said Kanu’s case was already before a court of competent jurisdiction.

ernment elections scheduled for Suleja and Bida local government areas of the state. The postponement, announced by the NSIEC’s Publicity Secretary, Mohammed Ali, was as a result of security situation in the two local government areas. The election for the two council areas will hold next Saturday,

if the security situation in the areas improves. It would be recalled that nine people, including a Divisional Police Officer, four other policemen and four supporters of PDP, were injured in a clash between supporters of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and PDP last Monday.

Northern govs boycott Sarduana commemorative lecture Ibraheem Musa Kaduna

lmost all the 19 Northern governors failed to attend the third day of the 50th Commemoration of the demise of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the late premier of the Northern Region which held yesterday at Arewa House, Kaduna his former official residence. Only the host Governor, Malam Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna State attended the event briefly but left the venue after the opening ceremony. Most of the governors sent representatives to the event, which was moderated by Justice Salihu Modibbo Belgore, former Chief Justice of the Federation. Similarly, General Theophillus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), who was expected to chair the session, did not attend the event, neither did former President Shehu Sahagari and Military President, Ibrahim Babangida. However, former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar had earlier sent a written apology to the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, the organisers of the event, about his inability to attend the anniversary.

It will be recalled that the three-day event had started last Thursday and only six out of the 19 Northern governors had attended the opening ceremony. Those that attended last Thursday’s opening ceremony included Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State and Chairman of Northern Governors Forum; Alhaji Abdulazeez Yari, the Governor of Zamfara State and Chairman of the Governors Forum as well as Governor Aminu Tambawal of Sokoto State. Others that graced the occasion were: Governor Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi), Architect Daruis Ishaku (Taraba) and the host Governor, Malam Nasir El Rufai. Speaking at yesterday’s the occasion, Minister of Youths and Sports, Mr Solomon Dalong criticised the Northern governors for not improving the lot of their respective states as much as the late Premier did for the region 50 years ago. The minister, who spoke in Hausa and was dressed in agbada and turban, advised Northern leaders to emulate the virtues of the late premier, adding that the elites should close their ranks in order to enhance the unity of the North.

Bayelsa proposes N150bn for 2016 fiscal year

he Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson, on Friday presented a N150 billion Appropriation Bill, tagged: “Budget of Transition,” for the 2016 fiscal year. This was against N250 billion passed into law in 2015 by the state House of Assembly. The recurrent expenditure, as presented to the state House of Assembly for passage into law, stands at N43 billion, and capital expenditure, N25.4 billion. In his presentation, Dickson said the budget would be committed to the completion of ongoing projects in the state.

The projected statutory allocation from the Federation Account, according to the governor, is put at N82.3 billion, capital receipts of N51.2 billion, independent revenue sources of N11 billion, which make up the expected total revenue. The recurrent expenditure as presented by Dickson, is having the highest allocation of N43 billion. This would enable the present administration to keep faith with the payment of workers salaries, regardless of the sharp drop in revenues occasioned by slide in crude oil prices, a statement said on Friday.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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Ecuador Embassy mulls aid for physically challenged persons Caleb Onwe Abuja

cuadorian Embassy in Abuja is perfecting plans to partner with Nigerian government in providing support for persons leaving with disabilities. Ecuadorian Ambassador to Nigeria, Leopoldo Rovayo Verdesoto, made the disclosure during a courtesy visit to the Director General of National Orientation Agency, Mike Omeri, in Abuja. Verdesoto said the Ecuadorian Embassy will partner with Nigerian Government to provide succour to victims of terrorism, especially those who are in Internally Displaced Person’s Camp (IDPs). He also expressed his desire to visit some of the states in the northeast where insurgency is still ravaging to discuss formalities of actualizing this aspiration with the various states’ governments.

Furthermore, he said Nigeria can benefit from the Ecuadorian experience in rehabilitation of the physically challenged as the government moves to rehabilitate persons affected by insurgency in the NorthEast. He also observed that his country had rich experience in social welfare programmes which the President Muhammadu Buhari administration can tap from to support its planned welfare programme for unemployed Nigerians. Earlier in his remark, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mike Omeri, assured the Ambassador of the government’s corporation to achieve his mission in Nigeria. Omeri also called on the Ambassador to help through the Ecuadorian Embassy to discourage risky migrations by Nigerian youth in line with its latest policy of strengthening partnership with the diplomatic community for youth development.

UK earmarks £30m to tackle climate change in Nigeria Caleb Onwe Abuja

he Head of Office, United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID), Mr. Ben Meller, has said that DFID will invest the sum of £30million on the climate change programme in Nigeria. Meller made the disclosure during a visit to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, in Abuja. He pointed out that DFID is not only poised to tackling climate change in Nigeria; but will also give financial support to the rural

areas through the Bank of Agriculture. According to him the project, which will serve as a Pilot Scheme, would address the problem of funds associated with small scale farming in the rural areas. Worried that agriculture, which supposed to be the mainstay of the nation’s economy, was being neglected; he promised more collaboration with the Federal Government in its efforts to grow and develop the country’s agricultural sector. Meller noted the existing bilateral relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, and ex-

pressed the readiness of his organisation to strengthen the synergy between the country and the organisation. He said DFID recognised the agricultural sector as the mainstay of the Nigerian economy with the dwindling nature of the price of crude oil, noting that challenges such as climate change, finance, infrastructure among others are militating against sustainable growth of the sector. Responding, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh commended the existing relationship between the Ministry and Depart-

ment for International Development (DFID). He described as laudable, various supports initiated by DFID in crucial areas such as poverty alleviation and climate change. He said the present administration would embark on tree planting where by three million each of cashew and cocoa trees would be planted annually to mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture as well as contribute to the country’s foreign earnings. Ogbeh sought for more partnership between the Ministry and DFID in order to improve the livelihood of rural dwellers.

Bauchi LG moves to increase IGR Alhassan Yusuf Bauchi

auchi Local Government Council Saturday inaugurated a 12-man task force on revenue generation for the council. Speaking at the inauguration of the committee at the local government conference hall, the Acting Caretaker Chairman, Alhaji Saminu Muhammad Gidado, said they had been directed by the Governor, Muhammad Abdullahi Abubakar to do

so. According to him, the state governor has directed all the 20 local governments in the state to look for ways of sourcing revenue for their local government in view of the present economic reality in the country. His words: “Governor Muhammad Abdullahi Abubakar has directed us to set up committees that will help each local government in the state on how to source and generate revenue for councils so that we can provide amenities for our people.”

Jega advocates scrapping of scholarship boards

rof. Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman, on Saturday in Dutse, called for the scrapping of states and federal scholarship boards. Jega, now a lecturer with the Bayero University, Kano, made the call at the maiden convocation lecture of the Federal University, Dutse, where he delivered a paper with the theme, `Reforming the Nigerian Tertiary Education sector: challenges and prospects’’ According to him, the scholarship system needs to be reviewed to serve the purpose for which it was introduced. He explained that most scholarship boards in the states and federal levels had been characterised by corruption, hence the need for governments to deal with schools directly. ``The scholarship system

must be reviewed and reorganised by disbursing scholarships through the institutions, rather than ineffective and corrupt boards. ``The federal and state governments should identify their beneficiaries and pay directly to their schools, and that should be done by merit,’’ he said. According to him, paying directly to the institutions will reduce a lot of wastages and reduce corruption in the system. Jega also advised government to introduce a wellfunded student’s scheme for indigent’s students that were qualified to go to tertiary institutions but could not afford it. He noted that these were important innovative measures used by most countries to expand access to education.

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ogun State Ministry of Health, Dr. Nafiu Aigoro; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Babatunde Ipaye, and Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Chief Dayo Adeneye, at a press conference on prevention of Lassa fever in Abeokuta...on Saturday.

PHOTO: KUNLE OLAYENI.

PDP, APC, others qualify to contest Anambra rerun says Nwaobu-Alor Okegwo Kenechukwu Onitsha

he former Special Adviser to Governor Peter Obi and a member of Board of Trustees of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Hon Sylva Nwaobu-Alor, has described as an impossible mission the call by the APGA senatorial candidate in the Anambra Central Senatorial district and former National Chairman of APGA Chief Victor Umeh’s call on INEC and the judiciary to disqualify the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from fielding for the Anambra central rerun

election. He stated: “The call by Umeh to stop PDP is rubbish because it does not make sense. Nobody can stop PDP from contesting. I think what the court simply said was that there will be a fresh election. How can you exclude PDP?” On the continued incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu, Director of Radio Biafra, Chief Nwaobu-Alor said: “My personal opinion about Kanu’s episode is that Nigeria should be careful in handling the matter. I do not listen to his radio, but his abusive words and insults were unbecoming of him.

“MASSOB cannot achieve their aim through violence even though their campaign appeals to those who think that their people are marginalized. I am one of those who condemn such protest where people go out to destroy things. It is unacceptable. “The Federal Government should release him. His arrest has also given him an unimaginable recognition that he does not even deserve. “So in my own opinion the Federal Government should ignore him and look into the plight of Ndigbo who are prepared to have the unity of indivisible Nigeria.”

Speaking on the recent demolition of Oshodi Market, Chief Nwoba-Alor said everything should not be about sentiments. “Ndigbo should stop crying wolf, because every government has a right to organize its place, it is progressive, it is not sentiment. “In a market where there are Yorubas, Hausas and other tribes, even though the Igbos may be the majority, the fact that they are not given sufficient notice does not call for protest. The traders should keep calm and go about their business so far they are not victimised by the Lagos State government.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

NewsExtra

Fayose cautions Buhari over probe of military chiefs Sulaiman Salawudeen ADO-EKITI

kiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose has advised President Mohammadu Buhari on his order for the probe of 18 military Generals by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged involvement in the $2.1 billion arms deal. Governor Fayose, who reacted to the President’s order for the 18 serving and retired military chiefs to appear before the EFCC

from Monday, through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, said the military officers ought to have been probed in accordance with the armed forces rules of engagement. The governor reiterated his support for the fight against corruption, but said “the $2.1 billion arms deal is a scam because all that they are just doing is to brandish figures to deceive Nigerians and demonise the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and those opposed to his dictatorship in the All Progres-

sives Congress (APC). “The President must let Nigerians see where the arms deal is in the 2015 budget and publish details of the imaginary $2.1 billion scam. Also, the President must tell Nigerians how his friend, Jafaru Isa was able to return N100 million to the EFCC within three days because there are” doubts about the source of the money. He said it was strange for serving military generals to be interrogated by junior police officers, adding that “the president should not

act in a way that he will be perceived asridiculing the armed forces.” He said: “Even though I am not a military officer, I know that there is what is called orderly room trial, which military men who erred in the performance of their duties are made to go through. It is until they are found guilty and probably dismissed that they are made to face court trial. “In this case, how does it feel for a serving Military General to be interrogated by an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)? I

think we should not destroy our democratic institutions, especially the judiciary and the armed forces because we are fighting corruption. He said already, “the President has ridiculed the judiciary by disobeying the courts and coming on television to say that orders of the court do not hold waters. He is also destroying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by turning it to com-

Militants shoot 23 foreigners dead at Burkina Faso luxury hotel

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris (middle), flanked by Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde (left) and Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Healthcare, Dr. Olufemi Onanuga (right), during a press briefing on Lassa fever update, at the Conference room of the Ministry of Health, the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja... yesterday

Buhari joins Ban Ki-moon, other leaders for World Energy Summit in UAE Anule Emmanuel ABUJA

resident Muhammadu Buhari will today depart Abuja for a three-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The President is expected to join the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Zayed AlNahyan of Abu Dhabi and other participants as a special guest of honour at this year’s World Future Energy Summit. A statement yesterday by the Senior Special Assistant in media and publicity to the President, Garba Shehu said the Summit, which is now in its ninth year, has developed into one of the world’s most influential events dedicated to advancing future energy, energy efficiency and clean technologies. Garba said: “In a move signalling Nigeria’s reengagement with the MiddleEast region, President Buhari will also lead a team

of his ministers to bilateral talks with the government of the UAE.” According to him: “After the talks, a number of agreements between both countries on the economy, trade and bilateral relations are expected to be signed. “From the visit, Nigeria also expects to get more support from the UAE for

its war against terrorism and the recovery of Nigeria’s stolen funds.” Buhari is also scheduled to meet with leading UAE businessmen who are interested in Nigeria with a view to encouraging greater investment inflows to critical sectors such as power supply, oil, gas and agriculture. The President will be ac-

companied on the trip by the ministers of Power, Works and Housing, Petroleum, Environment, Justice, Trade and Investment, Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as the National Security Adviser. He will also meet with Nigerian professionals in the UAE before returning to Abuja on Tuesday.

t least 23 people of 18 nationalities are now known to have been killed after Islamist militants attacked a hotel in Burkina Faso. Al-Qaeda militants attacked the luxury Splendid Hotel in the West African state’s capital, Ouagadougou, as well as a cafe and another hotel nearby. Four attackers - two of them reportedly women died in the assaults. The siege at the Splendid was declared over after a joint operation by local and French security forces. The Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) militant group has said it carried out the attack, which began on Friday night. Bukinabe President Roch Kabore, who arrived at the scene on Saturday morning amid tight security, announced the death toll and the liberation of at least 150 hostages. The French Ambassador, Gilles Thibault, gave a higher death toll of 27 and denied any women were among the militants killed at the hotel, reports the BBC. In another development, an Austrian doctor and his wife were kidnapped on Friday night in northern Burkina Faso near the border with Mali, Burkinabe officials said. AQIM said it

the Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, on Saturday said that the bureau will commence e-procurement on April 1, to reduce human interaction in the sector.

Ezeh disclosed this at the 2016 Retreat on Public Procurement for Federal Permanent Secretaries in Lagos with theme:``The Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007: An Effective Tool for Delivering More for Less.’’ He said the bureau had decided to use technology to drive procurement

e-procurement, especially for commonly used items. According to him, the bureau will also embark on price intelligence that will be bench-marked against its data base to achieve value for money with adjustment in periods of inflations. Ezeh said that the bureau would also use administrative and judicial processes to deal with in fractures. He said the bureau had engaged in capacity building for procurement professionals and others

He said that there had been constant engagement with the Executives, National Assembly and civil Society groups to build a consensus reform for the country. Ezeh said that the bureau also established centres for procurement at the Federal School of Technology at Owerri. According to Ezeh, the aim of the retreat is to remind the permanent secretaries of their responsibilities to the nation in managing public procurement.

kidnapped the couple. In November, an AQIM attack on a hotel in the Malian capital Bamako left 19 people dead. Militants attacked the Splendid and the nearby Cappuccino cafe on Friday evening, setting off several explosions. Both places are popular with UN staff and foreigners. Survivors described how the militants went from person to person, touching their bodies to see if they moved. “They started shooting, shooting, and everybody lay down on the ground,” said Mariette, who escaped from the hotel with her younger sister. “As soon as you lifted your head they would shoot straightaway, so you had to pretend to be dead. And they even came to touch our feet to check if we were alive. As soon as you were alive, they would shoot at you.” Interior Minister Simon Compaore said 10 bodies had been found on the cafe terrace alone. He added that at least 33 hostages had been injured. As the end of the siege at the Splendid was being announced, reports came in that militants had taken up position at the Yibi hotel, a short distance away. One attacker was killed at the Yibi, officials said later.

Woman loses three kids to fire

outbreak in the Accountability: BPP to begin e-procurement Afire Ogbia area of Bayelsa on Saturday killed the three he Director-General of processes and commence in other departments.

mission for inconclusive elections. He should not ridicule the military, and men of goodwill should advise the President to tread cautiously. “Also, the international community, especially the United States, United Kingdom and the United Nations should caution the President against actions capable of bringing down institutions of government under the guise of fighting corruption.”

children of one Mrs. Favour Udoh at her residence, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

The spokesman for the Bayelsa State Police Command, Mr Asinim Butswat, who confirmed the incident, said that preliminary findings indicated that the fire at Elebele community was caused by candle light. Butswat said that policemen from the Kolo Division of the police in Ogbia had put out the fire but could not save the three children, who died

in the inferno. “On January 14, 2016 at about 23.05 hrs, policemen from Kolo Division responded to a distress call of fire outbreak, at the residence of one Mrs Favour Udoh at Elebele Community in Ogbia LGA, he stated. Butswa said that although the fire was extinguished, three children, namely Daniel Udoh, Saviour Udoh and Joshua Udoh died. “The corpses were deposited at the Federal Medical Centre Mortuary, Yenagoa for autopsy and investigation is ongoing,” he said.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sunday Mail JANUARY 17, 2016

You have a right to be heard! Send your letters and photographs to sundayletters@newtelegraphonline.com. Letters should not be more than 200 words and must have the name and address of the sender

The Social Media Bill: The nays have it Dear Editor, In Nigeria today, you will need to borrow some lines from the beatitudes to abide peacefully with some public officeholders around. For some National Assembly members, the beatitudes will fail you unless you back it up with some fruits of the spirit. Sadly, in some cases these two will do nothing and at that point, the heavens will attest to the fact that your rage is well deserved perhaps some preachers will liken it to holy anger. Apologies to those who may not fully comprehend some terms here, please bear with me. Our Senators made me go spiritual to comprehend some sinister plot. I got my welldeserved rage when I learnt through social media that the Senate had carried out the second reading of “A bill for an act to prohibit frivolous petitions and matters connected therewith” sponsored by Senator Ibn Na’Allah, an APC senator from Kebbi State. Permit me to quote from the bill: “Where any person through text message, tweets, WhatsApp or through any social media posts any abusive statement knowing same to be false with intent to set the public against any person and group of persons, an institution of government or such other bodies established by law shall be guilty of an offense and upon conviction, shall be liable to an imprisonment for two years or a fine of N2,000,000.00 or both fine and imprisonment.” Nigerians, of course, won’t be quick to forget that we have on different occasion watched our lawmakers throw punches, abuse themselves and tear the clothes we got for them through their wardrobe allowances on live Television without been fined or given jail terms. We might just be forced to wonder if we are heading in the right direction, bearing in mind that the Sixth Senate passed the freedom of information (FOI) bill and now the Eighth Senate is working on this anti-social media bill, which for all intent and purposes is an attempt to gag the public. Asimi Samuel Oyimafu,

Nobody is sabotaging Buhari Dear Editor, More than five months into the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari (PMB), Nigeria is experiencing agonising fuel shortage and price increases. Probably out of ignorance or deception, many Nigerians around me are saying, “They don’t want him to succeed.” Who are the “they”? It means, in the context of the discussion, saboteurs. I then ask a series of questions. Was it saboteurs who prevented PMB from choosing his ministers until more than five months after his own inauguration as the President? What was happening in those ministries in the fallow period? Was it saboteurs who asked Buhari to be selling dollars cheaply to pilgrimage-makers, and to spend N70 million to celebrate Nigeria’s 55th anniversary notwithstanding the economic downturn? Where lies his focus and priority? After the election, Buhari had some weeks to prepare for taking-over power. What did he do in those weeks that he could not strategise for effective takeover? He alienated himself from the economic situation and what was happening in the ministries, including the petroleum industry. Yet, we have to assume that he has been in charge of the petroleum ministry and the other ministries since he took over on May 29, 2015. Nigeria is currently unstable; it needs reordering, for which PMB and his All Progressives Congress are apparently not ready. Previous rulers were also not ready. • Pius Abioje, University of Ilorin

Buying and selling at the expense of their health in Lagos.

Life of one Nigerian important Dear Editor, When terrorists massacre their victims and you have nothing to say, memorise and recite the familiar rhetoric: “Terrorism is a global problem; it has nothing to do with religion.” There are two groups of countries in the world today – countries that have security as top priority, and countries that have no future. It’s a privilege to own a gun in some countries; it’s Dylann Roof’s birthday toy in the United States of America. They’ve got plenty of sense but no common sense for gun control. For crying out loud, there’s common sense in UNcommon sense, for goodness’ sake. If it is reasonable to oversee overseas non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, it is unreasonable to overlook the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. What is righteoUS for the NPT is righteoUS for the UN Arms Trade Treaty. The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. Needless to say, insecurity is one reason the Nigerian state faces a bleak future. State governors collect security votes and pretend to be chief security officers of their respective states. But God knows; despite this terrorists, kidnappers, armed robbers all over the place; and human beings between the reign of terror and free reign of evil. In countries where lives matter, states do have own state police and communities like a university campus or a local district reasonably do have district police. It’s long overdue the states were empowered to own their police to tackle familiar crimes. A decentralised police is change we need. Federal police and state police and local police and community policing we pray! Our fears, our nemesis! People reason upside down that there is no need for state police because state governors could abuse “the privilege.” Maybe we should do away with the national security because presidents themselves sometimes do abuse their power. At any rate, I do not think a country of 36 states would be so unlucky to have in government 36 lawless governors. Moreover, when we get serious we can import security architectures and protocols to checkmate governors, ordinary governors. Let’s talk about our greatest fear – one Nigeria. Methinks that the life

PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

of one Nigerian is more precious than one Nigeria. Of what use is one Nigeria to one Nigerian if one Nigeria cannot protect one Nigerian? Today in Nigeria, no place is secure and no one is safe. It is alarming innocent lives wasted daily across the country. It is sorrowful to know that fellow Nigerians perish everyday due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, ritual killing, assassination, militancy, cultism, religious riots, ethnic violence, jungle justice, violent crimes by thugs, armed gangs, motor-park touts, area boys et al. • John Adebisi,

Get all ministries on the GIFMIS and IPPIS Dear Editor, The Government’s Integrated Financial Management Information System, (GIFMIS), is an IT-based system for budget management and accounting that is being implemented by the Federal Government of Nigeria for the improvement of public expenditure. It has also been put in place to manage the processes of accountability and transparency across ministries and agencies. The GIFMIS has a symbiotic relationship with the Internal Personnel Payroll Information Systems, (IPPIS), to help plan financial resources more efficiently and effectively. Both programmes are under the supervision of the Accountant General of the Federation, who uses the systems to ascertain the number of employees that government has and what their remuneration is. As a matter of fact, both programmes are supposed to track and check the incidence of ghost workers in the system. Information making the rounds suggests that while nearly all government ministries and agencies have been linked to the GIFMIS and IPPIS, some of them like the Ministries of Defence and Education have over the years refused to be integrated in a grid that regulates the number of employees in their ministries. From all indications, it is clear that government is trying to harmonise all public accounts through the Treasury Single Account, TSA. If this is going to work, everyone must be on the grid, particularly the Ministry of Education, the Police and the Army. • Bob Etemiku, Benin City.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Execut ve

Why did you choose agribusiness looking at the backwardness of the sector in the country? Agribusiness has been more of a passion for me. In my early age, I saw my mother farming and I got interested in it. Ever since then, I developed interest in farming. I have found myself strongly in that area over two decades now. Doing it effortlessly because it is part of me and something I do for a living. Wake me up any day, I will follow you to the farm and it has been very interesting. Again, when you look at Nigeria, we are richly blessed with resources and a huge population. Also, when you look at it, you see clearly that agriculture holds the key to giving us food security and reducing unemployment. If, we can get it right through agriculture and agribusiness, we can create jobs through agriculture, we can earn more income in terms of foreign exchange, we can strengthen our naira .We can be more productive by engaging in agriculture, we can feed the larger portion of the world through agriculture. All these thoughts really engage my mind and I believe so strongly that when it comes to Nigeria, the country is a gift to Africa. And Nigeria is as well a gift to the world and if there is one thing we owe the world, it is that Nigeria should be the food basket of the world because it has enough resources, land, huge population and everything that a blessed country needs to be a great nation. Sadly the country is not able to feed itself; it still depends on importation of food and could not develop what they have. They got everything to turn things around and make agriculture work; we don’t have any business importing food, if we do the right thing and take the right steps and engage in the right policies. While growing up, what are the remarkable things that helped shape your life? My father was a Chartered Accountant and businessman. We learnt one thing from him; he always used to tell us to pluck gray stands from his hair. As you pluck the gray hair, you have to account for it and we will get paid at the end of the day. That was my early exposure to business, being accountable and making money through removing gray hair from my father’s head. That was early entrepreneurship training my father imbibed in us as his children, that if you are going to make any money, you must work for it. You don’t just sit down and money comes to you. You have to put effort on something, in order to make money in life. I think that has been part of my life that for money to come to me, I have to do something, no matter how little it is. That is one fundamental thing that impacted my life as I was growing up. The next thing is a sound humility and hospitability because my father is gifted in the act of giving. So, you see a man who doesn’t mind spending his last kobo, even forgetting that he has children to look after. That was how generous my father was and it was very interesting. You can imagine till today, I still benefit from that his benevolence. Sometimes, when people ask me, who is your father and when I mentioned my father’s name, it will just open doors for me and it is so amazing. How many hours do you sleep a day? If I sleep four hours, I think I have slept very well because I am engaged in so many things. If I close my eyes even at 12 midnight, I find myself waking up to something do, and for me the day

My father paid me for removing his gray hair -Anga Sotonye His father taught him entrepreneurship at the early age of his life, and since then, Mr. Anga Sotonye, the Managing Director of Universal Quest Nigeria, an indigenous agribusiness company, exporter of agriculture commodities, consultancy service and training development, has been an adept businessman. He is also Coordinator, Agro-business for the Community of Agriculture Stakeholders of Nigeria, and Executive Member and National Publicity Secretary of National Cashew Association of Nigeria. He has travelled far and near delivering lectures on agriculture and allied products development. In this interview with STANLEY IHEDIGBO, he talks on how he started his agribusiness, his childhood upbringing and lifestyle much and I listen to him a lot. These are people who have touched my life in large extent. What was your most embarrassing moment? It was a day, I was to address the audience and I forgot to zip up my trousers after using the conveniences and somebody from the audience pointed at my trousers. And you can imagine - so many people both international and local quests staring and laughing at you. In such an environment, some of the people would have wondered if something had got wrong with me as their guest speaker. That little error of not zipping up my trousers, was my most embarrassing moment so far and I pray I don’t have any further embarrassing moments in future. Since then whenever, I make use of the convenience; I must keep myself perfectly okay. I will not be in hurry because some time if you are in hurry, you miss out in little thing that can cause big thing. And what about your most disappointing moment? I remember a time, when my mother took me to an uncle, who promised to pay my school fees at that time. We went to him, and the man changed his mind on the promise of paying my school fees. I felt so bad because he invited us to come for the money and when we met him, he refused to fulfil his promise. But that was a very big lesson for me as I was able to understand that it is just me or my parent that will support my education. As God may have, I was able to get to where I am today. has started. What do you do for recreation? I do a lot of indoor exercises, I do jog around every morning and I play tennis on weekends. And for my height 6.4, I should be playing basketball but unfortunately, I don’t. I have what it takes to play brisket ball game. Although, sometimes, I play little football and swim, also it is very good to exercise because it keeps the body going and we have to find time out of our busy schedule to do that. Little exercise help for better flow of blood in your system and a better heartbeat. What is your philosophy of life? Mine is very simple, when you put your heart to achieve anything and you are willing to achieve it, you will certainly achieve it. It may require time, but keep focus at it; you will have result and accomplish the goal that has been one of my personal philosophies. Do you have any role models and who are they? I have a handful of them, starting

from my father and my mother, who are an exceptional and brilliant. I have somebody I call my chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Ijwere, the Managing Director of Best Food Nigeria and National Coordinator of Nigerian Agribusiness Group, he is a wonderful man and I have learnt a lot from him. Then Mr. Michael Omoloyade is a great man; I love him and respect him a lot. My spiritual leader, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, I love him so PROFILE •Born May 13 •State of origin Rivers •Profession Agribusiness strategist and enterprise development expert •Current position Managing Director of Universal Quest Nigeria Limited,

What would you say is your greatest achievement as of now? To be among those who have made cashew crops popular in Nigeria and to bring agriculture into limelight in the country. It has been wonderful looking at the development agriculture in Nigeria and letting people to see the right thing they need to see, and to make the right impact in the sector. It has not be easy, but bringing out information in bits and pieces to make a whole statement that will enable people to see things in the right perspective in the development of cashew crops in Nigeria. I have come to realize that a whole lot of people, one way or the other utilize the same information to make impact, also the policy makers have as well made use of some of my research information. I am very grateful, as it has been one of the little things I have achieved in the sector, for my country, Nigeria and Africa at large. And you cannot make mention of cashew crop people in the country without including my name, I am proud to be a cashew farmer and I am taking cashew to next level in this country.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

DSS intimidating Faleke to drop mandate –Ohikere The factional governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, and his adopted running mate, Mohammed Audu, were guests of the Department of State Services (DSS), two weeks ago, for questioning. Tom Ohikere, a former Commissioner of Information in the state, talks about this issue and more in this interview with ONYEKACHI EZE Your principal, Faleke and Mohammed Audu were quizzed by the DSS penultimate week. What do you think led to their invitation? An arrest legally is different from invitation. They were invited but they were never arrested. You can only arrest criminals or suspects. They were invited by the security agency, and the Directorate of Security Services can invite anybody under the Nigerian law. In the last one month I have been to the DSS more than three times. And what did they tell you were the reasons for the invitations? It cannot be unconnected with the present political situation in Kogi State. It is the issue of the November 21 governorship election in Kogi State. Has he accepted the position of Deputy Governor-elect? No, no, Faleke is not a running mate to anybody; Faleke is the standard bearer of the APC in Kogi State. He is an associate to our late governorship candidate, so he cannot deputise for an unknown person. But the APC said Yahaya Bello remains its governorship candidate. That is why there is a problem now. Legally you cannot contest governorship where you do not have voter’s card; you cannot contest governorship election where you did not participate in the processes of the election; you cannot be governor when you do not know the promises that have been made and have to be redeemed. Bello is not a governorship candidate, he is my

brother, I am not against him but the truth has to be told. There are processes and procedures for everything in contemporary earth, you cannot jump the process. Are you saying Bello does not have a voter’s card? He has never voted in Egbiraland. Documents are in the court, so let us not pre-empt them. He is my brother; we are from the same clan. The APC settled for him because he came second in the party primaries that produced the governorship candidate. (Chief John) Odigie-Oyegun was wrong; he did not do the needful. If you take me to my heart of heart I will vote for Yahaya Bello. He is my brother, I like him. I’m just questioning the procedure. He is very intelligent, very good. I’m just complaining about the procedure for his adoption, and I cannot betray the dead. But the party decision is supreme. The party is wrong. The party decision is supreme but where it is wrong you correct it. The party is wrong in this case and you must correct it. I am a stakeholder in this party, a major stakeholder, and I say the party is wrong to have adopted Yahaya as the candidate. What we need is a sustainable democracy but with the kind of decisions that have been taken by OdigieOyegun, how are we sure that APC may even reach half of the timelines of PDP that ruled for 16 years? Can we even go these four years with this kind of decision in Kogi? His effective management of electoral rule is in question. I am not very comfortable with cer-

Anambra rerun: PDP calls for free, fair poll Pamela Eboh Awka

he Anambra State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, to ensure a free and election during the rerun for Anambra Central senatorial zone. Addressing PDP supporters yesterday in Awka, the state chairman of the party, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi warned against the use of security operatives to intimidate voters, saying that any attempt to employ such measure would be an invitation to anarchy. He said, “Our position is that every vote must count. I am advising former members of PDP who recently defected to All Progressives Congress, APC, to stop

boasting that they would use security operatives to their advantage during the exercise.” Emeakayi noted that the party was prepared for the senatorial election in Anambra Central as it is already working towards conducting primaries to select its candidate for the election. Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, who was elected senator on the platform of PDP to represent the zone, was removed by the Court of Appeal sitting in Enugu with an order for a rerun to be conducted within 90 days following a petition filed by the candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Victor Umeh. Meanwhile, elected PDP officials in the zone have called for the immediate release of the detained na-

tional publicity secretary of the party, Chief Olisa Metuh. In a solidarity message they delivered to Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, the officials from all the 109 wards in the state condemned the continued incarceration of Chief Olisa Metuh, describing it as politically motivated and aimed at silencing the voice of the opposition. They further passed a vote of confidence on Emekayi for the actions he has been taking in the struggle to ensure that Metuh regained his freedom, They also endorsed the postponement of the ward and senatorial congresses of PDP earlier scheduled for January 7 -9, 2016 because of the detention of Metuh and promised to mobilize their members for a new date for the exercise.

Ohikere

tain things that happened; and that is why I am making my stand, and I am suffering from it I don’t care. Wada’s government will end on January 27 and Bello will be sworn in. I don’t know about the swearing in. I know there will be swearing in but I don’t know this person will be sworn in or the other person will be sworn in. Either Bello or Faleke will be sworn in, most likely Faleke. Legally, Faleke; unconstitutionally, Bello. Your group has already instituted a case in court. How confident are you that it will go your way? There is an appeal at the Appeal Court, appealing the Federal High Court judgement. There is one at the tribunal. Let’s see how it goes but January 27 is near. But neither Bello nor Faleke has a running mate. Faleke has a running mate, Mohammed. Bello has no running mate. You cannot be governor without a running mate. But the law says Mohammed cannot be a running mate because he was not part of the process? My brother, you are talking journalism, we are talking politics. You either adopt or adapt to situations in politics. They are two different things. We have adopted in this situation. Now Faleke has resumed his legislative duties in the House of Representatives. Faleke has always been in the House, constitutionally, there is nothing wrong in that. Faleke is a front bencher in the House of Reps., he is a key person. He is Chairman, Committee on Customs.

We know about that but the question is which constituency is he now representing? Lagos is a cosmopolitan state. What that means is that you can come from anywhere in the world and be anything in Lagos. But Faleke has transferred his voter’s card from Lagos to Kogi State. Yes, he voted in Ikereade in the last election, he has transferred his voter’s registration from Lagos. What moral right does he still have to represent people where he no longer belongs? At the time he voted, he was in Lagos. He has the right to be voted in by the people there to represent them. At the time he contested the governorship, he transferred to Kogi. And the Nigerian law provides for it. It only expires 30 days before the voting and Faleke validly did that. Faleke has the right. Lagos is a cosmopolitan city. Rauf Aregbesola (Osun State governor) was there, as Commissioner for Works; Ojudu, who is the Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the Vice President, was in Lagos. They all have their states of origin but came to Lagos and served. So in Faleke’s case, there is no case in it. He was in Lagos but transferred his voter’s register to Ikereade in Kogi State, and that’s what gave him the voting right to contest the governorship. What is expected of law is after this particular election, he can now withdraw his membership from the House of Reps., if sworn in as governor of Kogi State. So he has not committed any constitutional error.

SUNDAY

Politics SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016

Ojougboh: Buhari should probe APC campaign fund too p.16 President won’t spare corrupt APC govs, says Frank p.17 Borno’s N10bn rebuilding project excites IDP’s p.18

Buhari

We never discussed 1966 coup with our roommate Obasanjo –Col. Emma Nwobosi (retd) p.20, 37 & 38

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

Magu

Buhari’s anti-graft war on trial

VAT increase, fuel subsidy removal indispensable, says Pategi p.19

The Sunday Interview

Jonathan

Biyi Adegoroye

he manner the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission goes about the investigations into alleged diversion and theft of $2.1 billion fund for the procurement of weapons for the military has drawn an admixture of positive and negative public reactions. Only last week, two groups of protesters stormed office of the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode over the war on corruption. While one of them named All Progressive Congress Anti-Corruption Volunteer Group staged a solidarity protest in support of the fight, the other accused the President of being selective and of flouting court orders. The arrest and detention of suspects beyond legally permissible period of time, arraigning suspects before magistrate courts who have no jurisdiction over such cases, (merely putting them on holding charge to have legal basis for continued detention), and consistent release of their statements to select media have become major issues. Also last week, Acting EFCC chairman, Ibrahim Magu, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, visited Aso Rock twice in a day, and gave reasons for not releasing Chief Olisa Metuh, the Peoples Democratic Party spokesman currently being held over the scam. Only last Friday, Metuh was remanded in prison on the orders of a Federal High Court. These actions have been described as human rights violations which are frowned at by the Constitution. The investigations into the use of military fund for political campaign instead of the procurement of weapons to pursue the battle against Boko Haram, has however, gained public support. More so is another issue; theft of about N34 billion allegedly perpetrated at the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. One undeniable fact is that the alleged wanton criminal diversion of the fund has been very

scandalous, effusing indications of callousness on the part of the suspects at a period when the nation’s territorial integrity was being compromised by insurgents and thousands of soldiers and civilians were slaughtered. Hence, some have argued that the current war which is in consonance with President Muhammadu Buhari’s three-point campaign promises namely war against corruption, unemployment and the need to tackle insecurity, should be given adequate support. To such Nigerians and international investors who have been battling with poor power supply, youth unemployment rate currently at 40 per cent, dwindling income, collapsing capital market, massive corruption and stagnated economy, the President’s mission could not have come at a better time. Interestingly, he has been very pre-occupied with the war against corruption- and that was absolutely necessary, given the fact that no nation can thrive when it is riddled with corruption. Already named in the alleged distribution of the sum are Bashir Yuguda, (N1.9bn), former Sokoto State governor Attahiru Bafarawa (N1.4 billion) Chief Jim Nwobodo (N500 million), Chief Olisa Metuh (N400 million), Chief Tony Anenih (N260 million), and Chief Raymond Dokpesi. Others are Chief Bode George, (N100 million), Dr. Ahmadu Ali, (N100 million), Chief Olu Falae, (N100 million) Chief Rasidi Ladoja, (N100 million), Umaru Shinkafi N100 million) and Tanko Yakassi N63 million. Some lawyers and analysts have noted that these disclosures are unlawful and are tantamount to media trial, and a negation of the principle of presumption of innocence, until proven guilty by court of competent jurisdiction. But giving the fact that almost all the suspects so mentioned are members of PDP, it is hardly surprising that the party perceives the anti-corruption war of the APC-led Federal Govern-

ment as a grand move to decimate PDP to pave the way for President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term ambition. The party also said that the prosecution of Dasuki was to discredit him and ensure that he nurses no presidential ambition in 2019. Some have even argued the President’s fixation on the former NSA was vindictive and a return to the post 1983 coup which led to the incarceration of many former governors. The PDP sees the current moves as a “sinister plan by the APC-led Federal Government to completely decimate the party by raking up all manner of allegations of corruption against the Goodluck Jonathan administration and leaders of the PDP with a view to taking them to court on orchestrated charges. It alleged that President Buhari has directed security agencies to be more vicious in dealing with its members and has continued to subtly coerce the judiciary to convict those being charged to court. The PDP added that the reaction of the APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun to its criticism of the President Buhari’s responses during his maiden media chat gave credence to the fears that the president and his party are intolerant to criticisms Chief Oyegun was said to have warned that “we (APC) may not condone such anymore,” a statement the PDP said was shocking given the fact that the party “denigrated the office and person of former President Goodluck Jonathan by wrongly depicting him as a clueless and incompetent’ leader. While the PDP sees the war on corruption as a jaundiced one, skewed to gag the opposition, the APC perceives it differently- that it is designed to clean the Augean stable. The latter said the war will be total and would spread through both political parties. They articulate these views in separate encounters. SEE PAGES 16 & 17

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Ojougboh: Buhari should probe APC campaign fund too The Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in the South-South, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh in this interview with BIYI ADEGOROYE, appraises the on-going anticorruption war and the fortunes of the party How will you assess the current antigraft war in the country? What the People Democratic Party has agreed upon is that the war against corruption should be fought in agreement with the provisions of the laws of the land. We support the war against corruption but we are also saying that it must be all encompassing. We also want the campaign fund of President, his ministers that of his associates to be probed. The campaign fund of the All Progressives Party must be probed, nobody should be singled out for investigation and probe. We in the PDP boast that we are the father of the anticorruption war. Our party established the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission to fight corruption in this country. So what we are saying is that corruption must be fought in tandem with the rule of law, nobody should be locked up indefinitely or be held without being charged to court. Section 36 of the Constitution talks about the fundamental rights of suspects; the right to a lawyer and the right not to be detained longer than 48 hours. Some of our members have been detained for more than a week while other people, at least we have the case of former military administrator and a governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Party who has been granted bail and is currently enjoying his freedom. That amounts to double standards and it should be discontinued. If you detain somebody longer than necessary and later charge him to court and the court says it was unnecessary the damage is irreversible. You said the campaign fund of the APC should be probed, are you aware of any complain or some particular cases? You are an investigative journalist and you should look deep into that yourself Are you making reference to an alleged disagreement about what a former governor in the South-South allegedly spent on the APC campaign? Like I said, I won’t talk about specifics, but we have had reports. They should follow it up. They should investigate all that too. What is your reaction to the current spate of defection from your party to the APC? I want to encourage members of the PDP to remain resolute and steadfast and continue to fight for the interest of the party. You see, the Peoples Democratic Party is formidable party with formidable structures in all the local governments in the country. We have representatives at all levels of government and are firmly entrenched at the grassroots, so we are unperturbed. It is also important to note that those who are defecting to the APC are soldiers of fortune, they want to reap where they did not sow Look at it critically, what

did they contribute to the success of the APC in the last elections? Nothing. That is it. They are fair weather friends who are merely interested in their pockets. So is the party collapsing at this moment in the face of the defections? No. We are very strong. We are rebuilding the party and those who are leaving will come back. How do you react to the outcome of the election in Bayelsa State? We are very excited. It goes to show the resilience of a people. I told you that the party is strong at the grassroots and that is what you have seen. Despite the efforts of the APC in the first election which was declared inconclusive and the last one, our party still polled over 136,900 votes to defeat the APC. This was despite the violence unleashed by militants and even the military and police who worked for the APC. Look at the level of shooting and killing. It was very bad. A traditional ruler was shot in the head and he is now critically ill. The Inspector-General of Police said that only three people were killed but we are aware that over 20 people died in that election. You will remember that some arrests were made and lots of arms and ammunition were recovered, but we are waiting for these people to be charged to court. During PDP government, all suspects arrested in connection with election violence were charged to court and people saw them, but what is happening now is shocking. We are waiting to see these people charged to court for crimes committed in the Bayelsa election. But despite all of these, our party still won. That is exactly what I am saying - our party is strong and formidable in the South-South and Nigerians have just seen the outcome. What do you make of the recent arrest and detention of Chief Olisa Metuh and the rest of them for over a week over the $2.1 billion arms fund? That is what I have been saying. If anyone is arrested, charge him to court, because no agency of government has the power to hold a suspect longer than necessary and as permitted by law. Let them come and defend themselves. The law enforcement agency cannot be the accuser and the judge at the same time, and we are not comfortable with this trial on the pages of newspapers. You see, the whole world is watching and by this action, government is shooting itself in the heels and people would see the other side of the APC and finally return to the PDP. This government should get back to work for which it was elected. It should develop the country, grow the economy, and generate jobs. Your party is now in the opposition. What

Ojougboh

efforts are you making to rebuild it? Right now we are looking at our constitution with the view to taking it from a party in power to a party in opposition. To that end, the Constitution Review Committee is currently sitting in Abuja, under the chairmanship of Barr. Victor Kwon, the National Legal Adviser of the party. The Deputy National Secretary of the party, Owen Owen is the Secretary of the Committee and I am also a member, along with many senators, governors and party elders. We also have members of NEC and we are 48 in all. Once that is done, we will be ready for our convention and we will ensure that power returns to the people, unlike what was the case in the past where only a few leaders decided what happened in the party. This time round, everybody will have a say. To that extent, we are concentrating very seriously on biometric membership registration of party members. We are thinking that if only 10 persons in every ward come out to buy the party’s biometric membership form, we will be happy and would be able know the strength of the party. The point is that anyone who does not have the membership card will not participate in the process leading to the National Convention of the party. Once we are able to do that, we would have been able to reposition our party. This time around, we are going to take the issue of zoning in the party very seriously. We have agreed that the presidency should be zoned to the North. To that extent, we are also of the opinion that for now the Board of Trustee Chairman should remain in the North while the chairman of the party would come to the South. That is the private view of some leaders of the party and that is what we are thinking about and once we are able to do that we would be ready for the 2019 elections. But by the way, what happened in Bayelsa is a very big lesson for the party, because we now know what the APC can do. In the Bayelsa State election, APC thugs came with guns, bowls and arrows, cutlasses and very dangerous weapons and they were escorted by security forces. The PDP faithful that were lining up were attacked and the soldiers and police people would arrest them, meanwhile the people carrying weapons and fomenting trouble worked

freely, snatched ballot boxes, took results sheets and kidnapped people and people were looking at them. They went into the house of PDP leaders and locked them up and the police would come and say ‘who locked you up? You are under arrest.’ The kidnappers were left to walk freely. These were the kind of things we saw in Bayelsa and it is a great lesson to us. This is why we are we are talking to other state chapters of the party to look at what happened in Bayelsa where power was returned to the PDP to use it as a yardstick to reposition the party. What the governor of Bayelsa Seriake Dickson did was to face development of the state and you can give him the credit. Go to the state and you will see credible achievements. You will see physical projects, developmental achievements with which he endeared himself to the people. He did not pay attention to those who said he should share government money to the people, or people who wanted national cake to be shared to them. National cake was not shared in Bayelsa and that is what made him to win. That is what we are asking our governors to do. Do not share any national cake; the national cake is for the people and we are saying use it to work for them. Following your party’s success in Bayelsa, what are your plans for Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, in the event of a rerun, since the cases are now heading for the Supreme Court, and in view of the strategic positions of those two oil producing states? We know that the Supreme Court is the last hope of the common man. We know that we won the elections in those two states convincingly. You recall that they had to take the Election Tribunals of those states to Abuja and all their sittings were done there. Also, in the case of Rivers State, the first judge appointed to head the tribunal rejected the appointment. That tells you a lot. We know that the Supreme Court will give us victory, because if you look at the judgment that APC secured in Akwa-Ibom and Rivers states, they are very embarrassing. The Supreme Court will right the wrongs, we are very sure of that. In spite of that, our CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016

Politics

President won’t spare corrupt APC govs, says Frank How do you see the claims of the Peoples Democratic Party that the current anti-corruption war actually targets its members? The war is not about the Peoples Democratic Party; it is against all Nigerians who have corruption allegations leveled against them - whether they are in the PDP or in the APC, the government will surely invite them. So we are asking Nigerians to ignore the outcry of PDP leaders because they are not used to being investigated. Now they are crying out loud over so many crimes they have committed. That is what is making them to shout, but the war on corruption is not all about them but about all corrupt persons in the country. I can tell you that any member of the APC who is found wanting or who has any allegation of corruption leveled against him will face the law. But so far, only one member of the APC, Brigadier-General Jafar Isa (retd) has been invited, and he has been set free, whereas people like Chief Olisa Metuh were held for more than a week without trial? That is the only member of the All Progressives Congress who has been mentioned. I can tell you that if they mention any other person who has soiled his hands in public money, that person will also face the law. We are waiting. Would you say the current anti-graft war is a reflection of the three-point agenda of the current administration? Yes the President has made it known before now, even during the campaign that the major point of his administration was the fight against corruption and that is what we are doing now. So this is the first phase of the war on corruption and I can assure you that as time goes by, so many things will be unveiled by the investigation. You will be shocked that even some of our leaders might be affected if they are found wanting in any of the cases before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. So this is just the beginning. We are following our change mantra as we promised Nigerians that we are going to fight corruption and that is what our President and even the government are doing today. Since you mentioned this, there is a call that even the President’s campaign fund should be investigated, and that some governors made contributions, like a prominent former governor in the South-South allegedly made generous contribution to the fund? Well we are not aware of that. We are waiting for any evidence. If anyone has any evidence that any governor sponsored our election they should bring the proof. Our campaign was funded by the masses. It was the masses that funded our election. You can recall how they bought our recharge cards, because our presidential candidate, now our President is a man of the people. People loved him and they supported him and that is why he does not want to disappoint them. What is your view about claims that the budget is missing and all that? Well, you can see that the President has issued a statement and we stand by that as a party.

How do you react to the level for violence in the Bayelsa governorship election? I have made a statement earlier on this issue and I stand by it. Times without number before the elections, I had said it that the Bayelsa APC had issues. Issues that were not attended to and I had been shouting a long time ago that if we did not resolve our issues and we go into this election, we would lose Bayelsa, but nobody listened to me. I cried and spoke to some of our leaders about the issues and the importance of reconciliation ...I granted interview that we would lose the election and I still stand on that position and the results have played out. Let me use this medium to congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Serieke Dickson and the PDP. This is not a victory for them alone but for the entire Bayelsans. Through the current President, Bayelsa has been able to enjoy free and fair elections through a proper democratic process of electing their choice. Let me sound this as a warning, in future elections, if PDP happens to lose, they should be able to accept defeat. They should not point accusing fingers at the President or the APC by crying foul that the party has rigged the election. What has happened is a clear testament to the fact that APC is not a desperate party and can accommodate people to vote the person of their choice. However it is important that the President sets up an investigative panel to look into the cause of the violence. Whether they are from the APC or the PDP, the perpetrators should face the law, because they have killed a lot of people, they killed a lot of future leaders of this great country. The security agencies should do their job and arrest the people and ensure they name their sponsors and people who they are working for. By the time that takes place, irrespective of the party they belong to, they must face the law. We want to show that we do not compromise and this is a test case that we want to show the people that our government is a very disciplined one, which does not believe in injustice, but it is willing to serve Nigerians. What impact do you think violence will have on the credibility of elections, like it happened in 2007 which led to the

Contrary to claims of alleged vindictiveness in the anticorruption investigations, Deputy Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Comrade Timi Frank tells BIYI ADEGOROYE that no one will be spared in the current antigraft war

Frank

setting up of the Justice Lawal Uwais commission? You know politicians are very desperate, and for that reason they sponsor thugs who carry out violence, and that is why it is very important that now that we are in charge, now that we are in government, we will make sure that that is unattractive, because the moment prominent leaders are arrested for their involvement in electoral violence that will be a signal for other politicians to learn their lessons. That is why we are saying that the cases in Bayelsa State should be investigated to set examples for other politicians.

What is the fate of those who are defecting from PDP to APC? Well, their fate is in the hands of God. That is what I can say to you. As a party we are ready to receive anyone who defects with good intention, but if any politician defects to the party to seek protection for past wrongs, he will not get that. The party will not be sentimental about the war on graft. We are ready to receive them, but if anyone has any allegations or anything he has been accused of, he should be ready to answer for that. We are not a party that is ready to protect corrupt leaders.

Ojougboh: Dickson’s re-election a morale booster C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 6

pride is that in the event of any rerun, we are working with the masses. Our governors are reaching them, they are performing in their respective states and they are commissioning projects that are very dear to the people. For that reason, no electorate in his good mind will leave a governor who is working for the good of the people to vote for an untested fellow. Of course, the devil you know is better that the angel you don’t know, because the angel can turn out to become Lucifer himself and that is what these people are. They are Lucifer in human colour. We are working very hard to ensure that our party stands firmly. On the other leg of the matter, you know that in every endavour, there are a lot of fair-

weather friends. These are the people who are decamping to the APC. These are the people they are banking on to win some oil producing state, because these defectors really have no party. Their party is any government in power, they don’t work hard, they work for themselves and these are the people that APC is banking on. We are aware of that and we will not allow it. The South-South is the home of the PDP and the party is holding firmly to this. Even that Edo State that APC is having now, we will take it from them. With regard to the forth-coming convention, don’t you think that the suit filed by Ahmed Gulak may scuttle the plans? The suit is very simple and clear. It says go and do you convention, that is what it declared and that is what we are going to

do. Though I have not seen the verdict, I am told that is what the court said and we are going to do our convention. Since you said some of you are considering that the presidential candidate of the party should come from the NorthEast, what implication do you think that might have on Gulak and co who said the chairman should also come from the North-East? That is why we are repositioning, that is why we want to do our convention. If the presidential candidate comes from the North and the BoT chairman comes from there and the Chairman comes from the South, I think that will settle all the issues. We are going to respect the zoning arrangement very well in the interest of the party.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics With the reclamation of more villages and towns from the insurgents in the North-East, AHMED MIRINGA, writes that the Borno State government is expending over N10 billion in rebuilding communities and resettling internally displaced persons

f all the states in the North-East ravaged by insurgents, Borno suffered the greatest casualties. Besides Yobe, Gombe, Taraba and Adamawa states, Borno either temporarily lost 21 local governments or parts thereof to the insurgents. Major local government and towns as well as government institutions like the Mobile Police Training School. Gwoza , Government Secondary School, Chibok police stations, hospitals and several others were not left out. Following the success recorded by the Nigerian Army in routing Boko Haram insurgents from Borno State, Governor Kashim Shettima, has commenced a N10 billion programme for the reconstruction of communities now considered safe with a view to resettling their residents. Governor Shettima said that he wants the over 1.5 million Internally Displaced Persons in the state to return to their respective communities, because the statement government would not subscribe to their continued stay in the camps as practiced in countries like Kenya and Tanzania.. Communities benefiting in the reconstruction programme are located in four local governments, namely Kaga, Konduga, Gwoza and Bama, because they are relatively peaceful and safe for the programme. While inspecting some of the housing projects in Beneshiek, the headquarters of Kaga Local Government Area, the government said his administration is committed to the reconstruction of communities destroyed by the Boko Haram insurgents, having been totally liberated by the military. Governor Shettima, said during an inspection tour of the on-going reconstruction in some communities in Kaga Local Government area of the state, that the government is committing over N600 million to the reconstruction of the communities in Kaga and Konduga local government areas. He said: “the Borno State Government single-handedly embarked on these projects to show example the world and donor agencies that my administration is really committed to and is passionate about the reconstruction, so that the IDPs will soon go back to their communities to live their normal lives. “In our calculations, we want the residents of Baneshiek and other liberated communities of Kaga and Konduga local government areas to return to their communities latest on January 31, 2016, while other communities that we considered not yet fully liberated to do so May 29, 2016,” Shettima stated. He said that government has built 505 housing units in Tamsu Kan, Police Station, local government secretariats, hospitals, police Barracks, boreholes among others, while also constructing over 1,000 housing units in Bama, where over 1, 000,000 blocks have already been molded. Addressing the people of Tamsu Kau, Governor Shettima promised to rebuild all their destroyed communities, empower women through poultry and goats farming, while men will be provided with tractors, improved seeds among others. The government has N30 billion worth of agricultural equipment. To underscore its seriousness about the programme, the state government has ap-

One of the buildings in Borno

Shettima

Borno’s N10bn rebuilding project excites IDPs pointed a commissioner to head the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement headed by an engineer, Babagana Umara. The commissioner counts on the support of President Muhammadu Buhari and other donor agencies who have assured the state of their support. Umara said “We have commenced the reconstruction of Emir of Gwoza’s Palace and cleared the debris in Bama to pave way for the reconstruction. We also have over 600 block making machines which will be deployed to various communities to commence the production of block.” In Bama alone, they have molded over one million blocks with a view to commencing the reconstruction, stressing that every member of all the destroyed communities will get their houses rebuilt according to the number of houses destroyed. To give credence to the reconstruction programme, Shettima has tagged the N155billion budget for the year as “Budget of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement” to carter for the reconstruction of the destroyed communities. The budget has the sum of N103,111,444,049.00 as capital expenditure, N51,895,901,130.00, as recurrent expenditure with education sector having the lion share of N27 billion, followed by the ministries of Works, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and health taking N16 billion, N12.8 billion, N11.5 billion and N10.2 billion respectively. A top government officer said that the bulk of the allocation to each of the ministries will cover capital projects like rebuilding of schools, hospitals, police stations and the likes. Reacting to the development, the Village head of Tamsu Kau, Bulam Bor, thanked the state government and the military for liberating their communities and for commencing their reconstruction. He also prayed for divine blessings FG’s Commission For effective resettlement of the IDP, the Borno State is not left alone to handle the reconstruction drive, as it has not only presented a bill for the establishment of NorthEast Development Commission but also budgeted the sum of N23.3 billion through the Presidential Committee on North-East Interventions (PCNI). It s designed for the post-insurgency reconstruction and rehabilitation of the communities ravaged by Boko Haram. The Committee which is chaired by General Theophilus Danjuma (retd) is also to aggressively intervene in the reconstruc-

tion of the destroyed communities in the North-East Declaring open a workshop on NorthEast Humanitarian Multi-stakeholders engagement with the theme “Coordination, Communication and Cooperation” at the Government House Maiduguri recently, President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo said “We are in Maiduguri to show humanity and gave milk of human kindliness to our brothers and sisters whom for six years have been ravage by Boko Ravaged by Boko Haram insurgency by killing, maiming and abducting innocent people.” The Vice President also stated that his team was also in Maiduguri to strengthen the capacity of civil organization and to develop the capacity of Non Governmental Organizations and individuals, so as to put the post insurgency construction on a sound pedestal. Speaking at the occasion, the chairman of committee General Danjuma who was represented by Mohammed Danjuma said the carnage in the north-east by the Boko Haram terrorists requires proper coordination, cooperation and communication to alleviate sufferings of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and the reconstruction of destroyed communities. He said the Federal Government and other stakeholders are seriously determined to manage the humanitarian crisis in the region and very soon the IDPs will return to their communities after the reconstruction. One person who added voice to the reconstruction efforts is the United Nations (UN) Country Representative, Ratti Ndlovu. She said that Nigeria has the capacity to restore the shattered lives of the IDPs and reconstruct their communities, so as to enable them return to continue with their normal lives. She said that as managers of humanitarian crisis, they will continue to work with federal and state governments and other development partners to restore quality lives to the IDPs and reconstruct their destroyed communities Governor Shettima said that the reconstruction was central to the activities of his government, even as he commended efforts of Buhari administration towards ending the insurgency in the North-East. He said that the state government will continue to partner with the FG and other stakeholders in bringing live back to the communities. To also complement the efforts of all stakeholders in reconstructing and resettlement of the IDFPs the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) through the North-East Entrepre-

neurship Development Centre (NEDC) in collaboration with the Abdul Ibrahim Development Service (AIDC) has trained 2,127 in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states and distributed 50 knitting machines to 50 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Borno to enable them to be self reliant and carter for their families. Flagging off the distribution of the items at the Arabic Teachers College camp in Maiduguri recently, the Director Programmes of the centre, Alhaji Bawa Idris disclosed that the NEDC in collaboration with AIDC has so far trained 2,127 IDPs in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states with Borno alone registering over 747 beneficiaries. “We expended N10, 637 million on the training of the IDPs in the three states in the North-East, as we pay their training fees of N5, 000, as well as spent N1.331 million on the procurement of the knitting machines and its accessories for the 50 beneficiaries free of charge. As you all know they can’t afford to pay for the training let alone buying the knitting machine,” he said. Alhaji Idris, therefore, called on the IDPs to make good use of the items and train other members of their communities, as the programme is aimed at empowering the IDPs economically. The Borno State Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement, Umara, said that the items will assist the IDPs in long way to be self reliant, just as he called on them not to sell the machines provided to them. “I commend the NEDC and AI Development Service for the gesture and call on governments at all levels, corporate organisations and individuals to emulate them in our drive to empower our brothers and sisters that were affected by the insurgency in the North-east”, the commissioner stated. The beneficiaries’ excitements were expressed by Malama Hauwa Ibrahim, who thanked the NEDC and AI Development Services for the gesture and prayed that God will continue to guard them and reward them abundantly. She assured that they will put the machines to good use and promised to train more members of their communities not only to be self-reliant but to reduce their families’ burdens. International communities were not left out as both Swiss and British government and their NGO have [promised to partner with the state government in re-building schools, clinic, hospitals and other public buildings.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016

Politics

VAT increase, fuel subsidy removal indispensable, says Pategi Hon. Aliyu Ahman Pategi represents Pategi/Edu/Moro Federal Constituency of Kwara State and is the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Water Resources. In this interview with CHUKWU DAVID, he critically examines the recent advice from the International Monetary Fund’s Managing Director, Christine Lagarde, on Value Added Tax increase and removal of fuel subsidy The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ms Christine Lagarde, recently advised the Federal Government to remove fuel subsidy and increase the Value Added Tax (VAT), among others. How do you perceive this advice? Yes, the coming of the IMF boss to Nigeria is an indication of the fact that the international economy holds Nigeria and her government in high esteem. You see, Nigeria operates a mono product economy. We have been dependent only on crude oil. And it is what states, local government and Federal Government depend on as a source of revenue. But more importantly, we know that that had always been 50 per cent of GDP in terms of revenue. The other 50 per cent had always come in the form of taxes and we also have revenue from the Customs and Excise duties. Equally, the Federal Inland Revenue had always contributed 50 per cent of federally collected revenue. Now, if you look at 2016 budget, the totality of the income the nation will receive from crude sources is just eight hundred and something billion out of a budget of six trillion. It is so paltry; and Nigeria cannot depend on that paltry amount to continue to provide the infrastructure that is required for 170 million people. So, the advice that the woman is giving us has to do with the fact that we have to be ingenious and look for other ways of ensuring that the critical dearth of infrastructure is addressed, and the only way you can do that is to enhance Federal Government revenue. Nigeria is a nation where most of us don’t pay our taxes. So, the suggestion that for every item you consume you must pay more tax, which is what VAT (Value Added Tax), is all about, as consumption tax, is well placed. It is a good advice. But it needs the political will of the executive. The President must sit with critical stakeholders in the Nigerian society: the manufacturers’ association, the labour unions, notable individuals and traditional class; and sell these views to them, with a view to ensuring that the gap in our budget is narrowed down. In the 2016 it is about N2.2 trillion, because in the funding of the budget N900 billion is going to be borrowed from foreign sources and another N900 billion is going to be borrowed locally. We can’t afford to be borrowing money to implement our budget when the population can pay for our budget. So, this is the idea. If we increase the VAT, yes there will be more money on the table for the three tiers of government and for providing the infrastructure that is required by the people in the areas of good road, power, water, good schools and even the social sector. In other words, are you saying that the advice given to the Federal Government in this regard by Lagarde is highly welcome? Yes but you know the issue there is that he is giving us an advice. The implementation lies with the Nigerian people. The President must be able to carry the citizens along by outlining a plan that they can key into and

the sky is the limit. Nigeria has so much potential and a lot of it is untapped. Nigeria has one of the lowest VAT rates in the world. In Britain it is about 17 and half per cent while in Nigeria it is five per cent. And the advice she is giving us is to increase it may be by two or by another five per cent. But it will bring critical revenue on the table for the three tiers of government. Does the government need to go into any form of enlightenment campaign for the public to accept the initiative? No, what is required is the will of the executive to call critical stakeholders and let them know about their plan if they so wish because we are not sure of the direction the government wants to take us. But if they feel that part of the way to go in enhancing federally collected revenue is through VAT, then so be it. All they need to do is to sensitise the public, call critical stakeholders and then come out with the policy, and am sure Nigerians will buy into it. Looking at the increasing number of unemployed youths in Nigeria and the concomitant social vices emanating from that, do you think that the 2016 budget made enough provision for youth empowerment? Yes, if you look at the budget, one critical area that government is intervening in employing our youth has to do with the recruitment of half a million teachers. A lot of these students that have obtained NCE, because of lack of recognition of such level of scholarship, it is a good thing that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari wants to deliberately intervene to employ the NCE graduates. You will see, if that is done and some of them are equally absorbed in the police force where I can see deliberate employment over the next year or two. Some of them can also be absorbed in Civil Defence Corps, Immigration and other Internal Affair Ministry commands. Then you can see that the problem of youth unemployment can be reduced to a minimum. But even that can be a scratch on the surface because the sector that should actually employ people since we operate a capitalist system is the private sector. All the government should do is to put in the enabling environment for the private sector to be able to employ more people. But we have noticed in this country that the private sector is always being owed by the Nigerian government. Our budget system has never performed beyond 50 per cent over the last 10 years. I was a member of the PDP. Successive administration’s budgets usually performed around 50 per cent, apart from priority presidential initiatives. And this is the reason why when you don’t pay contractors they leave the site. The engineers that they have employed, they employ more young people in order to get more jobs to do. They end up laying them off; and year in year out universities are churning out graduates; and because the Federal Government is unable to meet its promise to contractors, the pri-

Pategi

vate sector is not employing more hands. Equally, the private sector has complained about dearth of infrastructure. If we don’t have power, the money they would have used to expand the activities of their industry or company is what they will use to buy diesel. So, that increases their overhead; and once their overhead increases, they will find a way of cutting down the amount of salaries that they pay. And that will make one person to do the work of two people. That is why when you work into a bank, you will see about 100 people waiting to take money, but only two persons will be there to attend to them. In those days, you will see up to 10 tellers but these days, banks have found a way of making sure that they hire one or two persons to attend to every person coming to the bank to collect money. And I can assure you, if things continue the way they are, more banks will lay off people. Then another problem we are seeing is that there is a direct relationship between the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the commercial banks in Nigeria, where all the money that the commercial banks collect from you and me. For instance, First Bank will take this money to Central Bank and use it to buy treasury bills or Federal Government bonds. So, the Central Bank will now pay them a yearly interest and they satisfy their shareholders at the end of the year, where they will be given their dividends. So, the money that First Bank was supposed to give as loan to industries to expand their capacity so that they can now engage more unemployed youth is the money they have borrowed the Federal Government through the Central Bank through treasury bills. So, there is no money left to borrow the real sector, which is why industries are closing down. And it is the same heads of banks that seat with the CBN Governor to fix the monetary policy rate, the rate at which interest rates are set. So, between CBN and these people and government they fix arbitrary interest rate at 14 per cent which the real sector cannot take. So, the banks are always rich. They declare hundred billion naira profit every year. Their shareholders are okay. And

even when the banks are in trouble CBN will quickly intervene to bail them out again. They don’t do this to the real sector. So, this convergent of interest between the CBN and the Managing Directors of commercial banks is what is killing the real sector in Nigeria. And until that problem is resolved through the political will of the government of this federation, I tell you there will be no change. This is why a lot of people have always complained that why it is that Nigerian economy has defied all economic principles? This is the reason. Every month, the CBN will go to the market to buy and sell treasury bills. They will sell bonds. And state governments have followed that trend too. And I tell you, at a time, if we are not careful in future, local government will follow too. You are talking about the government having the political will to solve the problems, what definite measures will you recommend? The first one is to bring down the interest rate. The day that government decides that interest rate will be six per cent it will be six per cent. Do you know why? If CBN calls all the Managing Directors of banks in Nigeria: Zenith, Diamond, UBA and others and sits down with them in a monetary policy committee meeting, and decide that the interest rate will be six per cent, it will be so. But this is where the banks are making all the money; so everybody is at their mercy. Is there any way the parliament can intervene to solve the problem through legislation? This is not a problem of lack of legislation. Existing law has already taken care of it. The responsibility of fixing the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) lies with the Central Bank. So, they are really the one, and the executive arm is the one given the responsibility to manage the Nigerian economy. So, when they sit down with all the critical stakeholders, they will decide what interest rate is good after looking at all the economic variables within the country. When they fix it then everybody can charge above that.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016

The Sunday

We never discussed flat mate, Obasanjo –Col As a young officer in the Nigerian Army, Col. Emma Nwobosi (retd), was among the group that carried out the first coup in the country on January 15, 1966 and later he was to fight on the Biafran side during the civil war. In this chat with AHAOMA KANU 50 years after, at his Obosi residence in Anambra State, he takes a retrospective look on the coup, some mistakes they made and why he thinks the much agitated Independent State of Biafra may be realised

You were among the group of officers that changed the political landscape of the country and initiated the first coup d’état in Nigeria, how do you feel 50 years after that incident? I have not been feeling too great but I thank God that I am still alive. The only disappointment I have is that having done all we did to make Nigeria better and great, instead everyday it continues to slide. These are my regrets. You lived with Major Kaduna Nzeogwu and then Major Olusegun Obasanjo in the same apartment in Kaduna. Can you describe the experience at that point in time? It was great. At the time we did not have much worry and as young officers, we were single and thought that all the cares of the world were afar from us. We enjoyed our young lives; we enjoyed the Mess Life; we enjoyed the military camaraderie. And there was very little to choose between this person is from this part of Nigeria or from the other part of Nigeria. This was especially in the military. Everything went on very well. I remember, now you have given me the opportunity to talk about Major Kaduna Nzeogwu and Major Olusegun Obasanjo. You know Obasanjo is now a General and former Head of State, we have continued to remain friends. At that particular time we lived in the same house - a three bedroom bungalow very close to No. 1 Officer’s Mess in Counter Road, Kaduna. The three of us were at different units but at the end of the day’s work we all converged at the Officer’s Mess and then end up in the same house. Obasanjo was of the 1 Engineers Unit in Kakuri, Kaduna; I was of the 1 Field Battery, Artillery also in Kaduna and that time we were sharing Engineering Barracks with Obasanjo and Major Mike Okwuechime who was the Commander at the time. Major Nzeogwu was the Commandant of the Nigeria Military Training College in Kaduna. All the officers would converge at the Officers Mess whether you were Infantry, Artillery, Engineers, Transport or whichever, we were one as a family. Independence came in 1960, how did you feel at that very period and when did what made you and your colleagues decide to plot a coup start manifesting? Nigeria got her Independence October 1, 1960. I remember that celebration, my set were at the Military Depot in Zaria at that

time. Late Brigadier Mamman Rimawa was my course mate. May his soul rest in peace; he always remembered that day. That was the first day he drank a bottle of beer and he still remembered it even when he started surpassing us; we had been drinking before him but when he started, he almost went overboard. We were all excited that this was a glorious day for Nigeria and that Nigeria was going to be great. Of course different officers were in different areas. But things started changing; Nigeria instead of getting better what our politicians did was to replace the British colonialism with our own neocolonialism which eventually became worse and there is nothing as bad as your own person maltreating you. When did this start showing, after Independence? After Independence the euphoria was still there and everybody was basking in it and very happy. The British flag had just been pulled down and the Nigerian flag hoisted. Everything looked aright until they started jostling for power- the different political parties. And, I wouldn’t know which started first, they came at different times. There was the western campaign in western Nigeria. In the west, there was really one major political party and that was the Action Group. This Action Group, their leader was Obafemi Awolowo and he held sway in the west at the time. He had some very good and able lieutenants. Then in the north, there was Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sarduana of Sokoto, who was the Premier of Northern Nigeria. Then in the East, there was the NCNC headed by the late Dr. Nnandi Azikiwe, he was the Premier of Eastern Nigeria. That was how the stage was set. Then in the federal, the different political parties that were controlling their regions started struggling for power in the centre. And that was when this manoeuvring started. You met him during your college years? Yes, he was my senior in college. Then there was Chris Anuforo who later became a Major also and a whole lot of others. While in St. John’s College, you can imagine me coming to not only meet people who were interested in the army, but also schooling in a garrison town. Some of our lecturers, Nigerian lecturers like Mr. Ozie from Ogwashi Uku had some army friends; army officers who had

Nwobosi

already gotten commissioned into the Nigeria Army and they will come and visit him. I remember one British Captain who used to come on an army motorcycle; he will ride into the compound and climb the farm ridges doing some stunts; that got us crazy. Those were my formative years in the sense of interest and while we were there, of course if you graduated from there you could get into the army, which was an extra impetus to study hard but eventually we all did it. Nzeogwu got in before us, Anuforo later joined him and of course you can imagine if I had failed then I would have been a real failure. It didn’t happen, Thank God. I kept in touch with them until I also joined them. Some of the easons you plotted the coup were tribalism, corruption and the ills that

were going on then and that it was Ifeajuna that kind of mooted the idea and sounded you off on it. I want to know if you discussed some of those issues in with your flatmates Nzeogwu and Obasanjo? I tell you, we were all discussing them including Obasanjo but it was as far as the corruption went. But when it got to the stage of this thing is too much and we have to do something about it, the number became limited and I believe you understand what I mean. Obasanjo was not included among that number. Why was he not included? He was not included because, as much as Nzeogwu was his close friend, Nzeogwu could not go discussing outside the group.

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immediate at require your slides down, ’t on d er th year an o el co m e to w ee k ! I tention. As the onomic situation ec e l th fu y er ll d u n ef rent o w ill take a diffe n. o n o m ic hop ai tr u st th e ec e fall of in the country w ag e l all smil crunch and tha to ll on face and we wil y ou in a re la xe d p n ee ke k ta p n ot To h el in d off th os e th e n ai ra h as? January is usually d an d y ou r mis su es fo r th e oo ts m ke oc p as r u ar al yo ti m e of th e ye ss in g fi n an ci re stth e to u gh es t ke school feels and p re e be in g, w e h av e an in te our li n m O s, ti . ll ay bi d eof to m ts u lo ai t fo r yo u r im edition for yo nmi h ou se re n t, w . I th in k it ’s ti m e ing er is a be au ti fu l la d y, Fu ing on tt v u ti co p n te ys e at jo th te r en fo d ia sha-Ladipo who our seat belts we all buckle ead. It’s not a situ- Ajililes on the faces of young faan d ah g e sm d in ri ir y to sp p e in m av bu d es ig n er s b y h away but h that ation you wisby finding pragmat - io n toring them. Get to read en y m el ar . u w es sq ie su ce rv is fa inte l with on our cover tres s, M ar y L az aic ways to dea ring up. ac l fu ti u ea as they sp B me P as si on p ag e S o it ’s titi ze ru s is gr ac in g ou r e lets us in a to p ri o ri d s for this week and sh lso flip over orld. A y o u r n ee bit into her w e to see an d sk at e to our Celeb Lounge pag y h av e et ci h so g u h o thr at th os e in h ig from t h o s e w hen up to lately. As fallout ok ed lo be e w b , o as r p e ea d ie s fr ac l e m s th e Hm e ar ti st es w h o O la m id e th so to t h a t at e not to come wouldn’t dar eck that out on our Mainland. Che page. Our fashion Razzle Dazzlages are also there to and beauty p d indeed make your thrill you an ly a delight. Enjoy! Sunday simp

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Contents 17.01.2016 COVER

I was 24 years old when I started my career. The breakthrough came through a fashion show

} 24-25

FASHION Wrap dress is the number one dress that works for all body types

T h e Te a m Vanessa Okwara (Editor) Wole Adepoju (Snr. Correspondent)

} 28&29

Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) Abiola Alaba Peters

BEAUTY ZONE

MY PASSION I try to inspire people positively through my work

Your lifestyle can contribute to dark knees and elbows if you often rub them against objects

Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics) Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) +234 (0) 818 0515840, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com, julietbumah@gmail.com

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} 27

GLAM DUDES Fashion designers have made the Agbada a fashion choice for fashion savvy men

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Associates

BED, WORK & LIFE He knelt on the rug, pulled her to the end of the couch, went in-between and buried his face in there. He tasted honey and nectar mixed together… a n d something s w e e t smelling. As he prodded with his tongue and fingers, she screamed

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Helen Paul

Eyitayo Aloh

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StyleSta ker

Shey i Sha y Stylish star next door Biwom Iklaki

e are stalking the hip pop and R&B crooner, Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, aka Sheyi Shay. She is a recording artist, songwriter and producer who was born and raised in London to Nigerian parents. As per her professional achievements, she has toured with P. Diddy and BeyoncĂŠ in the UK before now, and has written songs for and worked with a number of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest like Brian Michael Cox, Chipmunk, Rob Knoxx, H-Money, Cameron Wallace, Jolyn Skinner, Joshua Tree, and Joe & Brian Higgins. She recently held a gathering of those who matter enthralled at her new album listening at the Grand Ballroom of Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos. The gorgeous singer, slayed in a white skirt suit with gold threaded embroidered details. This white ensemble she paired with silver T-bar strap sandals with crystal stones embellishment. Her makeup was muted, but with smokey eyes and subtle pink lips. What stood the look out most was her full head of shoulder length ashen hair. She did indeed look fabulous. She stunned again at the AMVCA 2015, in a bright red embroidered dress with a column silhouette. For accessories, she went with a gold box clutch, ruby encrusted bangle and chandelier earrings. Her hair and makeup were romantic and classic as she let down her hair and drew attention to her face with the classic red lips. It was one of her best looks yet.

Body&Soul

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

I want to touch Funmi Ajila-Ladipo is the National President of the Fashion Designers’ Association of Nigeria (FADAN) and has succeeded in bringing the industry to limelight with so many accolades. This fashion icon has been in the industry for over 27 years and has remained relevant. Since she launched her outfit, Regalia Couture, decades ago, she has continued to inspire younger ones who love fashion designing. In a chat with VANESSA OKWARA, she highlights how it all started, marriage and what it feels like to be a grandmother You have been the president of FADAN for three years now. How has it been like championing the association so far? Well, for me, it’s being a learning ground first of all. It’s been a bit challenging and it has also given me the opportunity to know more and also understand the needs of the designers and the challenges that are facing the industry at large. Apart from my 27 years experience and all the challenges I have seen myself, I have come to realise that it’s a recycling problems we’ve been passing through and it has given me concern to see how we can get relevant bodies and stakeholders who can help the industry to grow beyond what it is right now. And it has also helped me to see that Nigeria has grown beyond just making clothes for one or two people. Nigerian has grown to the stage of having a huge and massive production for the industry to have an impact and be relevant in the global fashion industry. What was growing up like for you? I come from Ekiti, but my mother is nomadic Fulani that migrated and settled in the Western Region. Growing up was very good. My parents loved each other and there were few months’ age difference between them. My father was trained by the missionaries who took them to study in Canada. My parents also died a few years from each other and we buried them in the same grave. What made you to go into fashion designing? It was my mother who discovered my creativity. In my growing up years, my mother was a caterer and we had a sewing machine in the house. During the Christmas season, she would make Iro and Buba for us and that was how I started. After I finished my A levels at the Federal School of Arts and Science, Victoria Island, Lagos, I was getting ready to read law at the University of Ife but my mother saw that I was the kind of person that would rather sit to paint and draw right from when I was a very young girl. Law was not my passion. So I thank God for my mother who recognised my passion for the arts. I went to Yaba College of Technology and I studied fashion designing, textiles and everything that has to do with apparels. How did you start your business? My mother gave me two sewing machines and I started from the house. I divided the sitting room into two and I was making my clothes on one side. Because I wanted people to wear my clothes, sometimes I would make them free for people. I was so excited owning my own business. What gave you the breakthrough in your career? I was 24 years old when I started my career. The breakthrough came through a fashion show. At that time, I had two machines, but thank God for one woman, Mrs. Abba Folawiyo of Labanella Couture. I went to her and told her that I wanted to contest in the fashion show. She asked me to show her my illustrations and when I did, she laughed and asked how I wanted to accomplish the task because it was very big. I did not have a factory where clothes could be made, so she asked me to come over to her own factory where she also guided me. And that was when I won the Fashion Designer of the Year 1987/1988.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

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more lives -Funmi Ajila-Ladipo I was only 24 years old. Till date, I am still in contact with such people. I respect and go to them for advice. You’ve been in the industry for decades now. Looking back, would you say the Nigerian fashion industry is moving in the right direction compared to the global industry? There is always a humble beginning. We are very creative and practical people and also hardworking. So far so good; I think we can compete globally with the fashion industries out there. A lot of young people are coming to the industry so it’s getting bigger, larger and more creative. It’s getting more global. Thank God for the Internet and what people are doing, because it’s easy for a lot of people to project and also exhibit globally. If you take a look at some of the samples these girls are doing, I call them samples because they have not been able to do them in large quantities. If you take a look at some of the things that have been done so far in the past seven years or so, you will see that fashion has gone beyond just cut and sew. So, reasonably we can compete with the people outside there. The only thing we are looking into is encouragement. It’s the encouragement on the side of stakeholders and government so that people can wear more of those clothes that are being made in Nigeria. It’s not that these designers are not creative or producing, but it’s just not enough. You will find out that there has always been the movie industry but when government came into it, it became a bigger brand. So what we are looking at is for the government to come into fashion to give it proper recognition that is due to the industry. Take a look at the industry, it’s about one of the biggest necessities of man. Even if you are so beautiful with good skin, you are not going to walk on the streets without covering it; so it needs to be given relevance and taken seriously. And that’s where we are looking into. How long do you have to be the FADAN president? God willing, if my people will let me go again, I will do it the second time. This is my last tenure until I’m re-elected because it lasts for three years. What have you garnered so far for the industry? You see fashion is not just being a fashionista, being a fashionista is the end product. But so far so good, the designers need a lot of encouragement and mentorship and we have been able to encourage them. We have been able to go round some states in Nigeria. I have been to Abuja, Delta, Kogi and Kaduna states but we are not done yet. We have been able to go to some of the schools to know the interest of the young people in fashion and get their view about how many people are into it and what they think about it. Also, we have been able to grow the membership of the association; we have been able to build relationship with government and stakeholders in the industry. We have been able to get the Bank of Industry to finance those who are ready to take the business from one million to thirty million clothing industry. You know it’s not about just making clothes. You also make to sell them. When you sell, you are encouraged to do more. We have been able to showcase a lot of designers who never thought their clothes could go on the runway. We have been able to teach them how to put their brand together. We have had seminars and we have had relationships with some of the institutions involved with fashion and textile companies like DA Viva. Towards the end of the year, we had

a Christmas party which I think has never been done before. And we had people from Delta State, Kaduna State and everybody got to know each other, so there is networking among designers now. Towards the end of the year, we also had a fashion exhibition. So we are building relationship with all the textile industry because we are designers, we are not textile manufactures. And one other thing we are looking into is to make people here in Nigeria and also indigenously to like the Adire fabric. Let’s help people see how we can make use of it. We are also talking to a lot of people to wear Nigeria and buy Nigeria. That’s the only way Nigeria can grow. What is your advice to young designers? My advice to the young designers is that they should get more creative and stop looking at the Internet and stealing other people’s designs. Let us go back into the books and search the mind properly. Don’t look at fashion as something like ‘oh yes, I can just look at one, two, three, four designers and join it together’ because you’ll get stuck one day if you are not original. Try as much as possible to have basic knowledge of designing. Don’t jump into it because it looks very attractive because there is a lot of work to be done behind it. So make sure that you know what you are going into. Make sure the finishing is properly done. Try and meet up to standard. Well, they are trying and doing well, they come up with stunning things but let it be original, don’t steal it from somebody else. Be focused, you don’t have to do 10 designs or collections at a go. You can work on one collection and start changing the colour and the pattern. Fashion is not about putting it together quickly and then you are on the run. No, it’s not done like that, it’s a lot of work. And make sure that it’s something that can be exchanged for money. What’s style to you? My style is simple and elegant. Style is all about you. It can be acquired, bought or you can employ a stylist to style you every time you need to go out. For me, style means the way you have been able to package and put yourself together. You are in your fifties and still look radiant. Please tell us your secret. Well my secret is God; there is no amount of money you have that you will ever look good. So it’s the grace of God that has kept me. That is the number one thing. Because even if you have the best of the products and God’s grace is not upon your life, it may not just work. Also, I do a lot of exercise; I do my one hour every morning. I walk and go on the bicycle; I am a biker. And I do a bit of trekking. I try to make sure I take my bath, at least about two times in a day. I just live by the rules. I eat healthily and I know what is good for me. When I need to rest I rest, when I need to be in the choir singing, I do as well. When my body tells me I need to slow down, I slow down. I just obey the rule of nature. What kind of things do you accessorise with? I still go along with creative things. Some of them include bags, shoes and jewelleries made by members of the association. In the association, we are over 100 people that are into different fashion items. These people need to be encouraged. I wear the designers’ clothes. People like Maufechi, Divine for Love, when it comes to bags; I also wear Modella, Kola Kudos and Grace’s hat. There are so many of them I cannot begin to mention so that others do not get offended.

What is your beauty routine and favourite perfume? One thing I can’t do without is perfume. My favourite is Angel by Thierry Mugler. I have always loved perfumes. I wash, cleanse, tone and then use a good moisturising cream. I am a very light makeup person unless I have to go out. There is nothing that is a must have really for me. The only thing I can’t do without is probably the grace of God. What is your passion? I’m passionate about fashion. My passion is fashion and designing. What has it been like being married to your husband? I have been married for a while and marriage has been interesting. We learn every time. A marriage that is one year is not the same as the one that is 15 years old. The body is changing and priorities are getting higher. My marriage has been good and I thank God for it. I have four kids and I also have a grandson. How do you combine being a mother and a grand mom with your busy schedule? I place priority on what I have to do. I do what I can do one at a time. I don’t overload myself with too much to do to the extent

that I get tired or burdened. I just do the bit that I can. So I place priority on things that need to be done. What is your life philosophy, what inspires you? Creativity and nature inspire me, then I watch the animal channel and I see the combination of the colours on the beetle. As small as the beetle is, it makes me wonder because everything has been set down. All what God created are just encouragement to me. Everything is in place unless we just want to deceive ourselves. There is nothing existing that has not been; all that we do is just to add our own style. And that’s what I tell people when they say this is my design and that’s my design. Well, Iro and Buba are fantastic, they have always been there. In Delta State, they wrap it as well. So what they just do is to take a little bit of Yoruba and mix it with Delta to make your style. How do you relax? I love to sing and cook and generally pray. I don’t really go out much unless to attend functions. I relax with my family and play with my grandson. What would you want to be remembered for? My father usually says something that ‘a good man is better than all the money in the whole world’. I want to be remembered for having touched a lot of lives. It may not be in money but at least it may be in words, it may be in prayers or attitude. I just want to touch as many lives as possible -young, small, old people without even knowing that I am touching lives. That’s what I want. I get a lot of testimonies from people to that effect and I feel blessed.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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Killer Whatchamacallit (12)

Juliet Bumah nowing that her husband spent his days with cold bodies was beginning to give Keith’s wife gooseflesh. How can somebody enjoy cutting up cold bodies? For the two years Keith wooed her, she never visited him in the hospital where he worked. Of course, he invited her and made it clear she could drop by anytime she felt like. She was too uninterested then. She was visiting her former fiancée who dumped her few months to their wedding day almost every other day at work. She never found out that he was dating his colleague then. Keith, a medical doctor, came at the time everyone was trying to get her to forget that sad experience. She had withdrawn totally into her shell and would allow no one in. She knew Keith told her he worked in the pathology department of a hospital, but she guessed the import didn’t get into her dark world then. In those two years, they didn’t go out for up to a dozen times. She usually had an excuse for not going out with him. She thought that could dissuade him from coming to her. It never did. He kept coming and almost constituted himself into a nuisance. He would attend all family functions. To make matters worse, her father, a phlegmatic retired old major, saw in him, a suitable suitor for his much-loved daughter. Keith also struck the right cord with her eccentric stepmother whose only interest was fashion. She would dress herself up, paint every paintable part of her body and prance about the house in her grotesque clothes. Somehow, Keith could stand her and they would chat endlessly whenever he visited. Her stepmother would make him comfortable with food and drinks while he waited for her to get back from work. She met Keith at her junior cousin’s naming ceremony. Somehow, they got talking and she found him interesting enough to grudgingly agree to give him her phone number. That was how their relationship started. He would come to her parent’s house at the close of his shift and wait for her. The second time she visited him in his house in their two years of courtship, she shared a bottle of red wine with him and lost her inhibitions. When Keith placed his hand on her laps and started tracing patterns on her flowery dress, she giggled. That embolden Keith who gingerly pulled the dress up, expecting her to hit his hand with her palm. “What are you doing?” She slurred. “Nothing. I just want to peek at what you have beneath that dress. I’ve been wondering what it would feel like to lie beside you in your birthday suits, touch and admire your goddess-like body,” he had replied, seriously. To his utmost surprise, she had stood up, zipped down her dress and stepped out of it. Shocked, Keith swallowed hard. He didn’t expect this. Not the prim and proper Shalom, Ol’Major’s beloved daughter. “Baby, you are drunk,” he managed to say, as blood rushed down to his

crotch. “Yes, I’m drunk. What’s wrong with that? I wouldn’t be the first lady to get drunk,” she slurred, swaying on her feet. Keith jumped up and held her. She shivered. Her skin felt so warm and silky. On an impulse, he sought her mouth with his. She didn’t resist. He became bolder, fiddled with her brassiere hooks and released the two delightful mounds. He burrowed his face in-between the mounds and she drew him closer to her, breathing deeply. He latched his lips round her tits as his hands roved her body. She moaned loudly as she held tightly on to him. Gently, he steered her back to the couch. He was delirious with desire. He stepped out of his clothes in record time and divested her of her remaining underclothes. She smiled shyly at him. “You are ready for this?” He asked her, barely able to contain his excitement. She nodded, her eyes closed. He knelt on the rug, pulled her to the end of the couch, went in-between and buried his face in there. He tasted honey and nectar mixed together…and something sweet smelling. As he prodded with his tongue and fingers, she screamed.

“Don’t stop, I said, don’t…don’t… yeah, I love it…don’t…it’s been so loooooong.” Keith felt himself bursting. His dangler was turgid and beginning to weep and hit the rug intermittently as it lunged. He pulled her closer to the edge of the couch, pulled out his face, with his fingers still working crazily in there. She wasn’t aware when his dangler replaced his tongue down there. She was shivering and screaming crazily as waves of passion wracked her body. He carried her to the bedroom after that and they went on another excursion, discovering things about each other that shouldn’t be inked, tasting their cums and thrashing round the bed in their alcohol-induced naughty state. Two months later, she realised she was pregnant. She had no plan to kill a soul, even an unformed one. Keith was ecstatic. They announced their intention to get married. Everyone was happy…everyone except Shalom…when she realised that her hubby earned a living by cutting up dead bodies as a pathologist! She began to resent his touch. She imagined all the crazy, horrible things she heard that those people do to lifeless bodies.

Could Keith be a pervert? She had no answer to that. Her skin crawled each time she remembered that. …. Mekson stares at the pastor. Could this be real? He stands, rooted to the spot. The pastor twirls, jumps and moonwalks, oblivious to the scared lone figure watching his show of shame. As he slides backward and does an almost 360 degree spin, he stops abruptly. Oh no! What deuce brought this man here? He asked himself. “Aaaaaaah brother. I was rejoicing on your behalf meh. The spirit said to my spirit, ‘Stand up, go to the church, eat, drink and rejoice for brother… er…er…er…Mekson…yeah, brother Mekson meh. For he is coming for thanksgiving meh’. You see, I don’t usually stay in the church this late meh, unless the spirit specifically instructs me. Today, I heard the voice, very clear. It said, ‘My son, go and wait for my son, for he is coming for thanksgiving.’ And when you are under anointing, you perform exploit, like you saw me doing a while back meh. “So, what brought you here at such an ungodly hour? No, I mean, I know why you are here because the spirit informed me beforehand. Your prayers have been answered,” Pastor James stuttered, cursing under his breath. He should have closed that door! He reaches for his white face towel and wipes beads of sweat off his face. Mekson’s present state of mind is incapable of rational thinking. The only thing that dominates his mind presently is the hangman’s noose, following him everywhere in his room. “Pastor, my wife is chasing me about. She wants to kill me,” he said. “Your wife? Where is she? Why? What did you do to her?” Pastor James asked him, looking fugitively behind Mekson. “My dead wife pastor. She’s been buried in her village and she wouldn’t let me be,” Mekson whined. “Dead wife meh?” Pastor James echoed, looking frantically around him. This is more than he bargained for. No need meddling with the dead. “My business is er…er…er…with the living and not the dead…” Pastor James began, searching for words. “Look pastor, I realised that I was supposed to come for thanksgiving which I didn’t come for. I was very busy, that’s why I’m coming so late,” Mekson said urgently. “Yeah…yeah…thanksgiving meh. You’re supposed to have come for thanksgiving meh. Are you ready for thanksgiving meh? But you said…” The pastor is scared. He’s torn between the greed for money and the wrath of the dead. Why would a dead wife come after her husband? This is getting freaky. He definitely won’t spend the night with this man here… but first, the thanksgiving… ……….. Oh boy! I’m almost freaking out here. You wouldn’t want to miss out on this. I wouldn’t also. So let’s keep a date here on Sunday. •Send your observations to: julietbumah@gmail.com

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

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DIY remedy for dark elbows, knees Biwom Iklaki

any ladies spot dark elbows, knees, and in some cases on their ankles. Some are self-inflicted through the use of bleaching creams; some are natural occurrences, while others could be traced to lifestyle. Your lifestyle can contribute to dark knees and elbows if you often rub them against objects, or put pressure on them frequently like placing elbows on a hard armchair while you type all day at a keyboard, people who are often on their knees either in prayer or mopping floors, etc. It is the build-up of dead skin cells as a result of friction or pressure to those areas. Whatever may cause your dark knees and elbows, they can be fixed right there at home, using products from your pantry. If you are using bleaching creams though, you may want to stop, or only apply on the dark areas until they are even with the rest of your body. As for the other causes, wear more long sleeves and trousers to protect your elbows and knees from friction. After doing all these, begin fighting the already darkened skin using the following treatments. 1) Mix equal parts of sugar and olive oil to

make a paste. Massage this paste on the afflicted areas for about five minutes. The sugar acts as an exfoliating agent to scrub off dead skin cells while the olive oil moisturises the affected area. Rinse off after five minutes and continue daily for best results. 2) Another set of items from your pantry that works for dark skin elimination, are coconut oil and lemon juice. Blend equal parts coconut oil with lemon juice and ru b on

your elbows and knees. Leave on for 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 minutes. You can wipe off any excess solution with tissue paper. Rinse off and apply your coconut oil. The coconut oil works as a hydrating agent and is also touted to be a natural bleacher, while the lemon juice is known for its exfoliating qualities. Remember to do these home remedies regularly to get best results.

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sual, sophisticated and elegant look. It’s easy to get into and easier to get out of. One of the great benefits of owing a wrap dress is that it will help you to hide that bulge you are always ashamed to show off; especially for the plus size ladies and those who have experienced child birth. Expecting mothers can also benefit from wearing the bumpfriendly wrap dress as the fabric is stretchy enough for growing figures and is elegant enough to wear for any

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outure designer Diane von Furstenberg’s most famous creation, the wrap dress, continues to reign supreme as one of the most flattering fashion pieces ever. This iconic frock celebrates over 40 years in the fashion industry and its still trending even much more than before. Today, the iconic wrap dress is a symbol

So we encourage you to jump on the wrap dress wagon, in case you haven’t, and literally drape and wrap yourself in it for work, weekends, dinner dates, holidays or for a fun evening with friends. The wrap dress is an absolute must for every wardrobe. Accessory Whether you choose a bold solid hue or a more colourful print, the wrap dress alone can make heads turn but with the right footwear, your couture can

Iconic wrap dresses Vanessa Okwara

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

of femininity, womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freedom, a staple, and so much more than just a dress. The DVF signature frock is known for their versatility and ease-of-wear style which makes it simple for every woman to wear no matter your size. To this day, the wrap dress is the number one dress that works for all body types, all women, all occasions and events. It perfectly blends effortlessness, giving you that sexy, ca-

occasion. It enhances and conceals some body parts you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want made obvious, while at the same time make you look good and fashionable. So many celebrities and sartorial lovers out there are seen in so many variations of the wrap dress. From jerseys to silk, to long sleeves or no sleeves, from mini to maxi lengths, from wild prints to clean designsthere are infinite styles, and even more infinite ways of wearing a wrap dress. They really never go out of style.

instantly go from casual to chic. The wrap dress goes with almost everything. The mid-length classic wrap dress looks fabulous with stiletto sandals. The shorter versions work great with any shoe style, flats and sneakers for more laid back and casual looks, to stilettos for more going-out styles. Accessories with a longer beaded necklace that hits below the bra line and a great heel. For work and more formal occasions, the blazer is a perfect fit.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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dude OF THE WEEK

Style spotlight:

Agbada gang Kennedy Aziagba Ghana

he traditional attire, Agbada was usually worn by the wealthy and influential figures in the society. Even former presidents like Olusegun Obasanjo rocked the Agbada daily and you would always see him flinging the garment over his shoulders while walking into a room. Back then, it wasn’t so much of a fashion choice for people to wear Agbada on special occasions; especially for young men. But fast forward to 21st century, fashion designers have made the Agbada a fashion choice for fashion savvy individuals who want to look classy. The Agbada is Yoruba traditional attire but today, a couple of young men from different tribes of the country have joined the Agbada gang and its trending right now for the youth.

The entertainment industry contributed a great deal in making Agbada a fashion style as artistes, comedians and actors played a big role in making it popular. Recently at the ‘Headies Award’ which took place at the Landmark Event Centre, Lil’ kesh was seen rocking the Agbada with a hat and sandals to compliment his casual looks. Vector was also seen wearing an Agbada and the list goes on. Thanks to fashion designers like ‘Tiannah styling’ who design beautiful Agbada’s that catch the eye. The modern style of Agbada is one to definitely rock on special occasions like weddings, dinners, cocktail parties and red carpet events. It can be worn with sandals or shoes and you can choose to wear a hat to compliment the Agbada and give you that cultural approach that is always endearing.

D’banj Simply stylish

Vanessa Okwara

ladapo Daniel Oyebanjo popularly known as D’banj is a NigeO rian singer-songwriter, harmonica player, and businessman. He has won several music awards, including the awards for Best

African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2007, Artist of the Year at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2009, Best International Act: Africa at the 2011 BET Awards and Best-selling African Artist at the 2014 World Music Awards and Evolution award at the 2015 MTV Africa Music awards. He adopted the stage name D’banj, a combination of his first name, Dapo, and his surname, Oyebanjo. He has performed at several international events including the AFCON 2013 closing ceremony held in South Africa. D’banj is the founder of Koko Foundation for Youth and Peace Development. He is also Nigeria’s first United Nations Youth Ambassador for Peace. The ‘Koko master’ as he’s popularly called is always a delight to watch on the red carpet. You can’t talk about well-dressed African celebrities without mentioning Afro pop singer, D’Banj. He is one of Africa’s most loved stars, not only because of his music but also his sense of style. His sartorial and expensive dressing makes him to stand out at every event. He has been frequently nominated as one of the best-dressed male entertainers in the country. The one thing that remains consistent is his love for sunglasses, chains and statement wristwatches, which are now his signature style. With his consistently stylish appearances, it is safe to say D’Banj is Africa’s most stylish Male artist, don’t you agree?

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Body&Soul

Signs your girlfriend is crazy about you

ast week on this column, we looked at signs your man is crazy about you. I got a lot of emails from both male and female on what they feel about the article. The clamour from the guys was how to know if their woman truly loves them or not; especially in a world where materialism has taken over the souls of some people. So today, we’ll look at the signs that show you that the lady you are currently dating, or in love with loves you right back and unreservedly. Every man wants the woman he loves to also express such deep feelings for him. The acid test for love is to remove the paraphernalia surrounding a person and if you still have strong feelings, then know you are truly in love. But the accusation flying around guy’s circle is that women only come to them when they have money, but once the money is no longer there, love flies out of the window. The situation in the country is also not helping matters; a lot of people are unemployed and ladies that find themselves in such predicament think the only easy way out is to hook up with a rich guy who has money to attend to her needs. Have you ever wondered why Baby Mama Saga is springing up in Nigeria today? This culture is quite alien to our ethnic values. Yet, we see a lady flagrantly getting pregnant for a guy either to hook him into marrying her or at least squeeze out large sums of money from him for child support. Unlike before, a girl cows her head in shame when she’s put in the family way. But these days, you see her bra-

CONNECT NG vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com zenly showing off her baby bump for a man she’s not even married to because he happens to be rich. She even gets the support of her family and the guy ends up becoming her family’s source of livelihood. So I quite understand when guys voice out their misgivings about the true feelings of the girl they are currently dating. It’s beautiful when a lady loves you for who you are and not necessarily because of what you can give her; although to be quite honest, a woman does love you more if you are

When a woman falls in love, she will let you know that she’s there for you in case you need her and she will be deeply concerned and interested in proffering solutions and the way out

capable of providing for her. It gives her confidence that her man is hard working and she gets the opportunity to gush about you to her friends, how wonderful you are. It’s all part of her way of expressing her love for you. That being said, the true test of that love is when she hangs around you even when you have nothing or going through a difficult time in your business or career. When a woman is truly in love, she makes sacrifices for you. She takes the time to be with you and to do the things you love to do. Sometimes, she forgoes her own needs or priorities just to please you. Unfortunately, the irony of life is that when some men find such women, they term them as being desperate for marriage and end up mistreating and rejecting their love. But if a man can look beyond his nose to see that this woman is making these sacrifices for the love she has for him, then he is indeed a lucky man. When a woman falls in love, she will worry about you and won’t be able to stay away if she notices you’re having troubles. She will let you know that she’s there for you in case you need

her and she will be deeply concerned and interested in proffering solutions and the way out. It’s in a woman’s nature to want to give to the people she cares about. If she begins to do things like showing up at your workplace with lunch, buying you meaningful gifts, straightening up around your apartment, cooking you dinner, or helping with your laundry, she is very in love with you. If she’s in love with you, she won’t be bothered with dealing with other guys, as you’re now the only one she focuses her attention on. A woman who really loves a man is proud to be with him and can’t wait to show him off to her friends and family. She will constantly talk about you with others and will be deeply interested in wanting to know your parents and your friends. If a woman is genuinely in love with you, she doesn’t snoop through your stuff. If her love is in doubt, she may find herself looking through your phone or browsing history for excuses to leave you. But a woman who gives you your privacy is willing to trust you. Trust is one of the strongest signs of love. Finally, a woman who is crazy about you is always there when you need her. It’s easy to be with someone when everything is fun and the sun is shining. When life gets rough, though, a woman who really loves you won’t be riding off into the sunset. She’ll want to go through it with you. That’s true love. I hope you find such a woman and have her in your life for keeps! •Send your views to the email above!

Public spaces, cultural issues and political interventions

n years past, ushering in the New Year has been a cultural high point in the life of most world cities. Neon lights count down the end of one year and the emergence of another and fireworks light up the winter night on the dot of the hour as people scream out their jubilation which represents their heightened expectations for the new year. Well, that is the practice until 2016. This year, the world felt a climate of fear that is unspoken and yet present amongst us; a climate that is political in every ramifications and yet taking a severe toll on our cultural life, our cultural space and making us question how far an incursion politics can make into cultural consciousness. On January 1, the public spaces around the world felt the biggest impact of terrorism on culture when the pomp and pageantry that normally attend new year rituals across the globe were either cancelled or observed with far less fanfare than previous years. Paris cancelled the fireworks, Brussels cancelled all celebrations, New York cancelled one event and discouraged people from attending the other as a crowd control measure. And Lagos, the hub of cultural activities in Nigeria, also cancelled all the street carnivals that we now associate with the festive seasons. For the sake of security, we yielded our public spaces and cultural life to fear, fear of the unknown or is it fear of the faceless known? But the question is, should we? Opinions

varied on this and I must say, even as I write this, I see a whole load of substance in all the arguments proffered by all sides of the divide. However, let us examine issues from a somewhat critical perspective. For me, there are two ways of looking at it; the cultural angle and the logical (or, common sense angle). Culturally, people have a right to public spheres either for leisure or for gathering to promote personal or common cause. This right is upheld by all the constitutions of any state that claim to practice democracy. This right is inherent in the charter of rights that confer fundamental human rights on every individual. These rights must be inalienable. Therefore, to either cancel or reduce the tone of the celebrations is to take away these rights from the people -taxpayers who actually pay for the

maintenance of these spaces. To cancel the celebrations because of terror plots is to yield freedom to fear and give victory to the opposition. For some, the fight against terror is ideological. It is a fight on the ways of life and values of freedom that is upheld in democratic settings and as such, we must flaunt freedom to show the triumph of freedom and its attendant values over fear mongering. I agree with this. However, I also agree with the logical aspect of the argument; that our government have a responsibility to keep us safe, to keep the bad guys away and ensure that every public gathering that is done in the name of freedom and fun, does just that and in no way becomes an avenue or for chosing easy targets of terror. Istanbul, Turkey comes to mind where a peace rally ironically became the

For the sake of security, we yielded our public spaces and cultural life to fear, fear of the unknown or is it fear of the faceless known? But the question is, should we?

target of one of the worst attacks in the history of that country. Yes, we have freedom and we have a right of association, but present realities also dictates that we prevent losing that freedom permanently, through death, while exercising it. And that is why we must commend the response of the security agencies to the threats. In fact, cities like London and New York had to recall officers on holiday to ensure safety during the moderate events held. For any who miss out, be assured there are many more opportunities to participate in public events where no fear will exist. On the home front, Lagos State prohibited the street carnivals and in doing so, did not just our personal safety a favour, but actually helped our culture and the space it should occupy. I have never hidden my disapproval of the carnivals held in Nigeria for the foreign themes that they embrace and promote. Imagine Ebute Metta holding a jersey carnival of foreign football clubs? I am still angry at that concept for its lack of local content. The absence of such carnivals on our street during the Yuletide ensured we foused on cultural activities that are more relevant to our needs as a people and upheld our shared cultural values. I heard of poetry readings held at Freedom Square, I also heard of art exhibitions, dramas and other laudable cultural activities. Undoubtedly, this was the best political intervention in our cultural space.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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Sen. Fatima Raji Rasaki in double celebration

The Indimis unite for Jibrila

ne of the most prominent families in the northern part of the country in terms of wealth and influence is that which is headed by the chairman and president of money spinning oil company, Oriental Energy Resources, Alhaji Mohammed Indimi, of Borno State. This is the noble and enviable family to which Mohammed, the son of former Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, married into. At a non-pleasant period in the past, the family had to deal with some challenges. That is now history as the family chose to disregard the tales that went round at that time. From a recent happening, members of the family, if at all they were apart, are united for a cause. The first son of the family, Mohammed Jibrila, in an elaborate ceremony, got married to his lover, Princess of Zazzau, Hadiza Giwa. From all indications, it was a glorious and joyful moment for the big family as they all came together and played their respective roles to ensure a successful outing for the family.

Dad identifies with Bello El-Rufai on birthday

aduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El- Rufai, going by his post as a public officer, will certainly make many go green with envy. The above 50-year old brilliant dude, El-Rufai during the days of former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, held sway and was courted by many for fear – so that he would not order that their structures at the capital city, Abuja, would be pulled down. That was when he was the minister of Federal Capital City. He went through struggles before eventually becoming the governor of Kaduna State some months back. However, the man cherishes and celebrates the remaining members of his family as he has lost two of his children in a short time. It came like a cushioning effect when one of his sons got married early last year in Abuja. In high spirit, the former minister threw the invitation open to the public to come celebrate with him. His son, Bello, few days ago, added another year. But since the El- Rufais are not known for throwing bashes, the birthday boy opted for a private gathering. The high point of the day was when his father, Mallam Nasir El- Rufai, presented a cake to him and spoke of how elated he was to see his son add another year.

Folake Akinruntan spotted

he name Akinruntan, no doubt, rings a bell not only in Nigeria, but beyond our shores. And the only reason is that the head of the family is a man with a very deep

orn into the prominent family of the late wealthy business man, Obayemi, in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Oluwafunke Fatima had at her beck and call, the wherewithal to enjoy a good life, which of course she did. Even at that, she still imbibed the spirit of caring for others and lending helping hands to those who are in need and other qualities that stood her out. These great values and privileged background made her attractive to men, but it was the former military administrator of Lagos State, Raji Rasaki, who ended up as the lucky man who swept beautiful Fatima off her feet and they have lived happily together. In her bid to further care for the people in a greater capacity, Fatima also went into the political arena. She represented Ekiti Central Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives before she was later elected to represent Ekiti Central Senatorial District in the last general elections. She’s well loved by her people for her great impact on their lives. Celeb Lounge, can authoritatively reveal it’s a great time for the influential woman as she has reasons to celebrate at the moment. The ageless beauty, on January 13, clocked 60. We learnt this will be celebrated in a modest but classy way at her Ikoyi, Lagos home. To compliment that, the federal lawmaker, a source said, will also be celebrating a new house she just completed. The event will last for two days.

pocket. With investments majorly in the oil sector among several other sectors automatically makes him a multi billionaire. Of course, ascending the throne of his forefathers as the Olug- Akinruntan bo of Ugbo land in Ondo State, rates him as one of the richest monarchs in Africa and this has further lifted his image and name. Just as he’s known to be sociable and flamboyant to a fault, his offspring have also taken after him. The most prominent among them is the one who sits on top of the oil segment of the family business, Femi. However, just like his father, Femi has been able to keep his family in the background to a reasonable extent and as such, the woman who rocks his world and stands as his companion, his wife, Folake, is rarely seen at public functions. Since she’s cynosure of all eyes and delight of paparazzi based on her great dress sense, the same thing played out when the beautiful lady was spotted at an event recently. Garbed in befitting apparel, she looked gorgeous with her great looks and nice carriage. She was cherished and appreciated by many.

Hon. Kayode Akinmade celebrated

danre, Ondo State born dude, Kayode Akinmade, started out as a pen pusher who knows his onions. These qualities made him shine like a star among his peers who took a cue from him and got committed to their

Akinmade

duties. It was less of a surprise but seen as reward for hard work when he was picked by the former speaker of the House of Representatives, Honorable Dimeji Bankole, to work with him before he was eventually made to man the information post of the state by the governor of Ondo, Dr. Rahaman Mimiko. As the Honourable Commissioner for Information, it’s evident how effective his ministry has been. His achievements, coupled with his great personality, may after all not be ruled out as a factor when every important individual came around to celebrate him as he added another year recently. It was revealed that several commissioners as well as the wife of the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alhaja Fatimat Oluboyo, were in attendance when he threw open the gates of his private quarters for privileged guests as he marked another year. Guests were said to be treated to a great time.

Hon. Olulade’s soaring image

ember of Lagos State House of Assembly representing Epe Constituency 2, Honourable Segun Olulade, had an encounter with the former governor of the State, Lateef Jakande. Many years ago, when he had a handshake with the latter, it deposited a quest in him to be great, as well as a thirst to make sure his people are fine. The thirst increased as he grew up to be more informed and became aware of many more things. Those who knew his aspiration were not surprised when he started contributing his quota at the local level. Olulade has not only begun fulfilling his aspiration to serve his people, but also impacting them to their admiration as a second term member of the lawmaking chamber. Beyond that, the amiable and selfless lawmaker is fast assuming a status that is making his detractors jittery even as he is becoming a face that cannot be mistaken as his popularity at the House is on the rise. Aside being visible and doing great works as the Chairman House Committee on Health, his

healthy relationship with his colleagues in the House has been a plus to his image. Beyond his effectiveness in the House, Olulade is fast becoming Olulade a sought after opinion molder, just as he’s rated as one of the most influential among his peers. His networks are far reaching to apex level in the party as well as cordial relationship with the high and mighty in the party among whom Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is one. Also, Olulade has been given a couple of honourable chieftaincy titles at different places.

High Society honours Siji Ogundele

t is only natural that a young person embarking on laudable projects and making accomplishments, will be endeared to many who are already doing well. This aptly describes the kind of support dynamic and upwardly mobile young architect, Sijibomi Ogundele, is enjoying from the cream of society. Important personalities on the invitation of Ogundele thronged the Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island, where he staged the private launch of a project, the tallest residential building in Lagos metropolis which is called, Lorenzo By Sujimoto XII-XII-VI. The event which was anchored by Bovi, had in attendance Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Chief Niyi Adebayo, RMD, Aremo Segun Osoba to Ogundele mention a few.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

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10 Nigerian artistes Olamide won’t dare

Mavin boss, Don Jazzy, and YBNL soldier, Olamide, ushered us into the New Year with their clash at the 2015 Headies. While many regard their beef as a show of shame, others say it’s celebrities’ way of life, considering the fact that it also happens on the international scene. A closer look at the whole scenario shows Olamide, aka Badoo, fired the first shot because he feels he knows Don Jazzy. ABIOLA ALABA PETERS brings to you, 10 Nigerian acts Olamide will never dare to offend Reminisce

Popularly known as A l a g a Ibile, his name is Remilek u n Abdulkalid Safaru. Although he was born in Kaduna, he spent his childhood days in Lagos. Reminisce is a Nigerian singer, rapper, and song writer from Ogun State. He performs in both English and Yoruba languages. The graduate of Kwara State Polytechnic commands a whole lot of respect from the so called ‘STREETZ’. The father of two lovely daughters from different mothers is very original and fearless as he was once referred to as ‘one of the seven World Rappers You Should Meet’ by TIME magazine in 2014. Burna Boy

Controversial Damini Ogulu, better known by his stage n a m e , Burna Boy, is a Nigerian reggae - dancehall singer and songwriter. The talented act was once described as temperamental and uncontrollable. He threatened to hospitalise or kill any blogger who writes negative things about him. In 2013, there was a story that Burna Boy was banned from entering the UK for allegedly taking part in gang related activities in 2010. Seun Kuti

Oluseun Anikulapo Kuti, comm o n l y known as Seun Kuti, is a Nigerian musician. Seun leads his fa-

ther’s former band, Egypt 80. Seun and his brother, Femi, are the two commercially successful musical offspring of the late Nigerian Afro beat innovator, Fela Kuti. At the age of nine, Seun expressed the wish to sing to his father. A short while later, Seun started performing with his father and the band. Since then, Seun has followed the political and social ethos of his father. Fearless and outspoken, he participated actively in the ‘Occupy Nigeria’ protests against the fuel subsidy removal policy of President Goodluck Jonathan in January 2012. Seun Kuti is an atheist. Idris Abdulkareem

Regarded as one of the pacesetters of hip hop music in Nigeria, Idris Abdulkareem is a controversial music artiste who had b e e f s with different top music acts and political personalities in time past. Some of them a r e 50cent, D’banj, Ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo, among others. Having beaten ex label mate, Jayson, to coma in 2014, Idris is the first ever Nigerian rapper to release a ‘diss’ song, ‘Wackawickee MC’s’, where he took shots at Tony Tetuila, Plantashun Boyz, Ruff Rugged and Raw. Oritse Femi

Former Ajegunle act, Oritsefemi Majemite Ekele, popularly known by his first name Oritse Femi, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter and performer. He is best known for his remake of Fela Kuti’s ‘Double Wahala’ song. If you recall in 2015, Femi threatened to beat up the Bariga star, Olamide, if they ever meet. The musical Taliban who is always claiming he is a symbol of the

‘STREETZ’ has been identified with big names in the music industry and some celebrated ex-militants from the South-South. Daddy Showkey

Better known as the ‘KING OF THE STREETZ’, Daddy Showkey is a veteran Nigerian ‘Galala’ singer. He was popular in Ajegunle in the late 1990s. Born John Asiemo, he spent his childhood days in the ghetto which today, has been described as the street. He was a former champion in boxing, well known and feared during his reign, even till date. Timaya

Enetimi Alfred Odon, better known by his stage name, Timaya, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He is the founder of SouthSouth hip pop group, ‘Dem Mama Soldiers’. Although the one-time plantain seller is not too familiar with the use of the term, ‘STREETZ’ in his songs, one can tell from his courageous lyrics and clique of friends, ‘Dem Mama Soldiers’, that he is truly a Niger-Delta soldier. In 2010, Timaya was reported to have traced his ex Nollywood lover, Empress Njamah to a church, where he was almost beaten up and detained for physically harassing his then girlfriend. Charly Boy

Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, aka Charly

Boy, also known as His Royal Punkness and Area Father, is a Nigerian singer/songwriter, television presenter, publisher and producer. CB is one of Nigeria’s most controversial entertainers, best known for his alternative lifestyle. Charly Boy is not only daring, the grandfather was bold enough to walk out an incumbent governor from his late father’s funeral. He represents both the ‘STREETZ’ and the opposite circle. Saucekid aka Sinzu

Born Babalola Falemi in Lagos State, Nigeria, Sauce Kid, aka Sinzu, completed high school education in Nigeria before moving to the United States. In 2014, it was alleged that Sinzu was wanted in Houston, Texas for debit card fraud. C C T V footage was released by American local news, ABC, of an unidentified man stealing $300 from an ATM machine in a departmental store. He denied the allegations. Saheed Osupa

King Saheed Osupa is an esteemed Nigerian Fuji musician who was born in Ajegunle in the 1960s to late Alhaji Moshoodi Okunola, an Etiyeri musician. Some years back, Saheed Osupa was reportedly crowned King of Fuji Music by Alhaji Ayinde Barrister, while his colleague, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, was crowned Otunba of Fuji music by K1, a move that brew heavy feud between the two rivals. On countless occasions, Pasuma and Saheed have traded war words in their songs with their band boys and followers clashing at any meeting point.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Wine & Dine

Body&Soul

Beat aging with Beetroot juice Ibukunoluwa Kayode

levated to the status of a super-food owing to its many benefits, Beetroot’s deep, overpowering red juice has earned its reputation as the most bossy of vegetables. This root fruit holds a lot of nutritional benefits, known to boost stamina, remove blemishes from the skin, prevents signs of aging, lowers blood pressure, improves liver function, boosts haemoglobin levels, reduces inflammation, helps prevent cancer and as well detoxify. Although the leaves have always been eaten, historically the beet root was generally used medicinally for a range of ailments, including fevers, constipation and skin problems. Beetroot is a good source of iron and folate (naturally occurring folic acid). It also contains nitrates, betaine, magnesium and other antioxidants (notably betacyanin). Recent health claims by the British Dietetic Association (BDA) suggest beetroot can help lower blood pressure, boost exercise performance and prevent dementia. Due to its richness in nitrates converted in our body into nitric oxide helps lower blood pressure. However further long-term trials would be needed to improved exercise performance. The dieticians verdict on beetroot juice, along with green leafy vegetables, cabbage and celery, suggest a useful amount of balanced diet as their nitrate content may help to reduce blood pressure. “Getting active, reducing the amount of salt in your diet and maintaining a healthy weight are also key strategies for getting your blood pressure under control.”

Idoma Okoho soup Biwom Iklaki

t would be nice to think that we all had fabulous weeks or days of holidaying with family and friends. Some of us had the opportunity to travel to our native villages and eat our traditional, indigenous meals. It is in this vein that ‘Sunday Telegraph’ food page will attempt to travel round the country to sample some of our meals that we may have reconnected with. This week however, we are tipping our culinary hats to the Idoma people of Benue/Nassarawa States. It is a tedious delicacy that they love to indulge in again and again. Te-

dious because it is so thick it may be drawn off the plate at your first morsel. If you have suggestions on meals we could feature, kindly write to us with tweaks on your favourite way of making them. INGREDIENTS Medium size stick or stem of okoho plant Dried fish Ekporoko/stock fish Fresh pepper (red bonnet) Egusi (one cup, blend) 1 large onion 1/4 cup crayfish ½ kg beef or dried goat meat.

salt, stock cubes and dawadawa/iru to taste PREPARATION First, spice and parboil your protein till tender and set aside. Wash and peel your okoho stem in thin strands. Tie the strands for easy handling and dunk in a bowl of hot water. Leave to soak for 10-15mins and squeeze the sap from the stalk till the water becomes thick and viscous. Remove the stalk (could be reused) and set the liquid aside. Return your pot of protein to the fire and add the onions, salt and the ground pepper. Leave to simmer and add the

ground locust beans and the dried fish and cook for about 15 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix egusi, salt and crayfish thoroughly with a little water, knead to a very thick and stiff paste that has some oil production, then carefully drop small balls of this egusi mixture into the boiling broth and cover to steam till they are firm to touch. Next, remove the meat, egusi balls and fish and carefully pour in the okoho sap and set the heat on low for about 10 minutes. Return meat, egusi and fish and stir briefly. Taste and add whatever suits your tastes and set aside to serve with pounded yam or semo.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

E-mail: editor.body-soul@newtelegraphonline.com

Hidden picture

The lazy boy Mojidat Adegbola

de, stand up and get prepared for school.” His mother called from the kitchen where she was busy preparing breakfast. But Ade did not answer. He was still rolling on his bed. It was 6:30 am. His mother had to come into his room to drag him into the bathroom. “Mom, I don’t want to go to school today.” He pleaded. “Shut up! This is what you say everyday. Why are you so lazy?” His mother asked. Ade had always been like that since his days in primary school. He was not a fan of school. He

hated school work. Now, he had gotten admission into a junior secondary school beside his mother’s house; his father had died before his 5th birthday. Ade had only managed to pass the common entrance examination. On getting to his new school, Ade found people in his own category; the lazy ones. And they became truants. Unknown to his mother, Ade was lagging behind in academics. Wasting away the school fees his mother was suffering to pay. He only managed to graduate from the secondary school. He continued with this behav-

Crossword puzzle

iour until his mother died when he gained admission into the University. There was no one to help him. He himself was not willing to work to gather money for his studies. His lazy attitude towards school work made him to become a drop out of school while his mates gained admission and graduated. As the adage says, “No food What did the cheerleader say when she for a lazy man.” was given more homework? Ans: Bring It On. Ade wallowed in abject poverty due to his Why don’t fish need to do homework? Ans: Because they’re always swimming laziness. in schools

Gags

Knock Knock Who’s there? Howl. Howl who? Ans: Howl we finish our homework on time?

Biology Teacher: “Students, what does the chicken give you?” Student(s): Eggs and Meat! Teacher: “Great! What does the pig give you?” Student(s): Bacon! Teacher: “Excellent! Now what does the fat cow give you?” Student(s): HOMEWORK!!

Photo speaks

Happy birthday Ikechukwu, more fruitful years ahead. Grow and shine!

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

My first pay was N10, 000 – Mary Lazarus Mary Lazarus is a fun, feisty and beautiful Nigerian actress with a great work ethic. She featured in Super Story, This Life, Tinsel and many other movies and soap operas. She won the NMAA’s Most Photogenic Female Type of the Year 2010. She chats with BIWOM IKLAKI on her passions and trivia What career would you have been in if you were not an actress? If I wasn’t an actress, I’d probably be a waitress in a Chinese restaurant considering how much I love Chinese food…just kidding! Maybe I would have been into Advertising. I the love arts. Some of the movies you have acted in? They include Spider, Living in Lagos, Married but Living Single, Behind the Smile, Show Girls, Needle’s Eye, Waiting Years, Blackberry Babes, Super Story, This Life, Tinsel Corporate maids, The Benjamins, Now We Are Married and Shadows. What food can you not live without? It’s Chinese food. Mainly their corn soup and shredded beef sauce with special fried rice. Delicious! We know you are an elegant dresser and always turn heads when you step out. What is style to you? Style is a way of expressing who I am, how confidant and comfortable I look on the outside, in terms of the way I dress, talk, move my body or do anything for that matter. It’s just a way of expressing my inner being outwardly. You know they say everything on the outside is merely a reflection of what’s on the inside. Some people say ‘never say never’. Which food will always be a ‘never’ to you? My friend told me of a delicacy in China they prepare using the brain of a monkey as one of the ingredients. Yes, I love Chinese food but I will never be caught eating that....NEVER! Your work must have exposed you to lots of travel. Which city is your favourite holiday destination? That will be Atlanta Georgia, USA. Do you have a fetish, or something you always love to have around you? My love for extensions -human hair of different types, but I do have a secret fetish though

in capital letters: SECRET! Not ready to share, sorry! Bribe Me…? You must have a very hectic work schedule as a hot actress in demand. How do you get to balance your work and social life as a young lady? They say we live to work and we work to live. For me, finding a healthy balance between work and my social life has not always been easy, but I make some effort towards developing that balance to ensure that I satisfy productively on my job and at the same time, have a satisfying and healthy personal life. What do you hold most dear to your heart, that which you are you most passionate about? I’m passionate about my job and family. In the last general elections, many artistes tried their mettle in politics. Would you ever consider a political career? I wouldn’t say, ‘Never say never’, but for now, no. What is your take on competition among women; is it healthy or not? I don’t believe in competition when it comes to men, physical appearance, good apartments, relative judgment of ‘success’ by your peers. Those kinds of women feel less confident within themselves and more vulnerable to feeling threatened by, or threatened to their female friends in the face of success. But in the case of competition for jobs, sometimes a healthy competition is necessary. For me, this kind of competition does not have to be dangerous or hurtful, but can be motivating and allow for healthy sublimation of aggression. This kind of competition allows me to do well and embrace a positive feeling of empowerment and strength while at the same time caring about friends’ feelings and supporting them in their own growth. It is no secret that you are a twin and that you are very close to your twin brother. What pranks did you both play as children? My twin brother and I played a lot of pranks as kids but the one I remember most is ‘Hide and Seek’. How much was your first acting pay and what did you spend it on? My first acting pay was N10, 000 and I can’t remember what I spent it on after paying my tithe. Complete this sentence; Mary Lazarus is awesome because...? Mary Lazarus is awesome because she has a gorgeous smile. The whole world becomes brighter when she smiles. But se-

riously I have a big heart. The way I love and care for others is amazing, I try to inspire people positively through my work on TV and charity. I’m an imperfect girl not trying too hard to be perfect. I never give up no matter the challenges. I have got to be careful so I don’t praise myself too much..... or have I already? If you were stranded on an island and could take three things, what would they be? I would take food, cell phone with enough airtime in it and water. Tell us three things that make your boyfriend stand out. What made you say yes to date him? This is so personal! What are three deal breakers in your relationships? A lot of them but you said three so I’d say: anger/abusive person, lack of communication and untrustworthy person. How do you relax, keep fit and what is your beauty regimen? I exercise, visit my masseuse for a massage and acupressure. I drink a lot of water, avoid smoking and alcohol, visit family and friends, watch movies both in cinema and at home, vacationing outside the country and getting enough sleep. What words of love would you like to shout out to your fans? I would love to give a big shout out to all my fans out there that have followed my work up until now. You guys are amazing!! Thanks for your support, feedback, prayers and encouraging words. Hearing from you guys is the best feeling in the world.

6 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

y Interview

1966 coup with our ol. Emma Nwobosi (retd) in command in Abeokuta; that time I was commanding the Artillery and he was my 2ic. Then it was while we were in Abeokuta, though before coming there, that we crystallized that January 66 coup and moved from the same barracks where we were all staying to carry out the coup. So Bali and co woke up in the morning, from what he told me in Washington. D.C, to hear everybody hailing the military for being so marvellous; they called the army their saviour. Bali said that they felt like women. He said that when they asked what was happening the people told them that they (the army) had taken away the corrupt government, Thank God that they could breathe then. Bali was only to learn later that his commander was not only part of the coup but spearheaded the western part of the job. And he did not see any reason why I did not tell him if I trusted him so much. What did he ask you? He asked why I did not tell him, that they woke up and heard the news like every other person. We were drinking beer when he brought the topic. I knew he meant it, he was serious and wanted to know if I had lost confidence in him but I told him no, Domkat, I have not lost confidence in you but instead it was because I trusted you so well that I did not tell him. I told him that if I went for that operation there was no guarantee that I was coming back and who else would be there to take over the unit and run it very well if not you. That was why I did it. He thought about it. I said listen if I had lost confidence in you, if I hated you I would have taken care of you before I left for Ibadan. He said yeah, Emma I know you could be right. I told him I know I am right. We took up our glasses and cheered and continued drinking and the friendship continues.

What were the criteria for selecting officers that participated in that coup? Ok. If I know you and I know you well enough, I know to discuss this subject with you, I know that this subject is a no go area because the common cliché is that some people are not the coup type of officers. I will give you a personal example, General Domkat Bali is my very good friend and I will discuss anything under the sun with him but there are a few things I will not discuss with him. And I know that much as I trust him he was not happy when even as Minister of Defence he met me at Washington D.C when I was in exile after the war. He asked me a question and said Emma, I have been meaning to ask you this question and I said go ahead. He said I know we have been very good friends, he was my second

Would you say that was the same reason Obasanjo wasn’t tapped for the operation? Obasanjo not being part of the coup was in our own opinion, not Nzeogwu’s opinion because he had to seek our opinion before doing such a thing except if we were not around, Nzeogwu knew Obasanjo was his close friend, Obasanjo would protect him anytime and then Obasanjo would have been an asset to us for that type of operation but he was not selected. Secondly, Obasanjo was due for a staff officer’s course in India but that was long after the planning of the coup had commenced though it is not the main excuse. I think there could be parallel reasons or similarities. I am asking this question because there has been this long held belief that the major actors of the coup were from a certain part of the country which makes it an Igbo coup. Why should almost 80 per cent of the leaders of the coup come from the eastern part of the country? Good, let me tell you. When you say 80 per cent then 20 per cent did not come from the Igbo speaking part, so what happens to the 20 per cent? We are talking about the ring leaders here? Wole Ademoyega was he not one of the ring leaders and wasn’t he from the west?

Our dream was that since Obafemi Awolowo was able to transform the Western region, we wanted him to do that for the country because that time the West was the envy of everybody

Ademoyega was the one who was in charge of the western operation because he was in the Lagos anyway but when it turned out that I was due to go on transfer to Abeokuta from Kaduna to build up another Artillery unit and I had a unit to myself which is different from his; he had to scramble units from here and there and you know that was the problem they had in Lagos, so we swung the responsibility and his task became mine. And that was why I took off from Abeokuta with my unit and it was very dangerous to have gone to Ibadan where there was Col. Largeman who was in charge of the 4th Battalion and 4th Battalion was quite friendly with Ladoke Akintola’s regime. Before then we knew they were training Akintola and some of his ministers on use of fire arms and they were training at their range; we had reports. What we did not know was that those weapons they trained with ended up at their homes; at least I will tell you this as I had first-hand knowledge that one light machine gun ended up in Akintola’s house because he attacked us with it. We were just lucky. In carrying out the coup, was the plan to really eliminate the leaders because the coup is about the bloodiest of all coups that ever happened in Nigeria? The decision was to arrest them but if you want to arrest somebody and he wants to kill you and he is at an advantage, you don’t want to die. So you deal with him first; that was the point. One point I just remembered when you asked this question saying that about 80 per cent were Igbos, that one per cent that would have made the leadership of Nigeria; if it’s one per cent, it is one person, that one per cent was Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was he not a Yoruba man? The question is about the principal actors that carried out the coup and not who may have benefitted? He wasn’t part of it but when you think about what you are going to do, the actors and the end result, we had that planned out. It was your unit that arrested Akintola and from the accounts I have read he attacked you and was executed there. Also FaniKayode was also arrested by your unit, why was he spared? I took Fani-Kayode in my vehicle to La-

gos and put him in safe custody. In fact, I removed one second Lieutenant and took his room for the whole day. I put him there and put guards there. Fani-Kayode obeyed. Let me tell you the story, when Fani-Kayode saw us he became panicky and did not resist nor attack us. We arrested him and his wife was crying and I told her that nothing would happen to him. I put him in the back of a Land Rover. We started driving from Ibadan to Lagos to join the Lagos group; I did not go back to Abeokuta, there was nothing for me to do there even though I threatened a nurse at the hospital that I would be back. It was while we were leaving from Abeokuta to Ibadan that I saw a pregnant woman and her husband and took them to the hospital. There was just a nurse on duty. I asked for the doctor and told the nurse who was shaking because of the number of soldiers around that if anything happens to the woman or the baby that I would be back the next morning and woe betides them. I just wanted to instil fear in them. I knew I wasn’t coming back; if I survived Ibadan I knew my next port of call was Lagos and that was what I did. I took Fani-Kayode to Federal Guards Officers Mess and locked him there. Fani-Kayode survived everything. Now in the process as we were going, Fani-Kayode became very talkative, how he couldn’t fight Akintola from outside the party so he joined the party to fight him from within. As he was saying this I wasn’t interested in what he was saying, I was thinking about Lagos and suddenly I heard somebody slap him and shouted ‘Shut up’ and Fani-Kayode answered ‘Yes Sir.’ I turned and asked what the matter was, it was one bombardier, a corporal in my unit, One Samuel and apparently he was a Yoruba boy and this boy lost one finger in Akintola’s house. We eventually dropped him in front of the military hospital because we did not have time. This chap slapped him and when I asked what the matter was, the corporal said he was the one and I asked why, the chap said Fani-Kayode was talking a lot of rubbish. I told him you don’t do that because I don’t go for that type of indiscipline. We continued. I think he was saying it thinking that that would make the soldiers feel happy and not do anything to him. I wasn’t planning to do anything to him and we took him there. FaniPower survived. When the coup failed and negotiation started it was still Obasanjo and Nwawo that went as emissaries, how did you people feel when Nzeogwu came to Lagos and was arrested, were there feelings that Obasanjo betrayed Nzeogwu? No and that will show you why I said they were both good friends. After the coup when there was pandemonium and Obasanjo surfaced, Nzeogwu was very happy to see him because there were some other officers there and they were having meetings on what to do next. Nzeogwu had threatened to attack Ironsi down in Lagos because Ironsi was going to betray our cause so certain people started intervening telling him not to do it as there will be more loss of lives. Ironsi was there as the big boss; he was the GOC. That’s CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 7

why it’s not good when you do such things don’t leave the Oga patapata. That was a mistake. It wasn’t a mistake in the planning; it was a mistake in the execution.

Nwobosi: Biafra won’t emerge by force create a leader and everybody will say yes this is the man. Whether it will happen in my life time I don’t know. I just thank God that we have done our bit but unfortunately not everybody appreciated it. I remember when we were planning the coup, it was only Emma Ifeajuna that was interested in a government position. Nzeogwu, Onwuatuegwu, myself, Chris Anuforo, in fact all the people we sat with, nobody wanted to leave the army, we all wanted to stay in the army and reinforce the government and make it strong. And our dream was that since Obafemi Awolowo was able to transform the Western region, we wanted him to do that for the country because that time the West was the envy of everybody. But out of envy and all that, they trumped up charges against him and sent him to prison. Then all these people came to devour. Awolowo was uppermost in our mind, to get him out and allow him lead the country. When Awolowo died Ojukwu made a public statement, as if we told him to go and say it, that Awolowo was the president Nigeria never had. Actually he modified it as president; he was supposed to be the Prime Minister. If we have had Awolowo I believe Nigeria would have felt a difference.

So people like Ironsi, Largeman, Maimalari were supposed to be eliminated? Of course.

When the July counter coup occurred you were in detention, how did you feel knowing that some of your colleagues like Don Okafor, Anuforo met gruesome deaths? Actually we got information of their execution while still in Kirikiri; information was filtering in. Honestly we felt bad. We were still in Lagos then and we were quite vulnerable, the feeling wasn’t good at all. It is just like you and I staying here knowing that the enemies are around and can break in here, kill the warders and finish us. You can’t feel good even with all your military training. In fact it is your military training that makes you feel very insecure because you want to be sure that wherever you are you can defend yourself even when you are barricaded, you have a chance of eliminating few people before they get you. There were some soldiers outside that were meant to be guarding us but then anything could happen; there were enemy soldiers so that was no protection. What could have been the reason people in detention at Kirikiri survived the counter coup while detainees in other places did not fare well? Most of us were taken to Kirikiri. Major Don Okafor, I remember we were told that his wife requested that he remained in Abeo-

Nwobosi

kuta because it was more convenient for her to visit him there. We did not hear about any special request about Chris Anuforo, but we were told he was in the West and there he was thrown into a grave and executed there. Some of our soldiers who were arrested in Kaduna and kept in Kaduna Prison were taken to Enugu eventually. Kirikiri was the place most of us were kept. From Kirikiri, they moved Ifeajuna to Uyo Prison, Captain Oji was kept at Abakaliki. As at that time we were still corresponding; it was possible but it took time. The prison authority did censor some letters and at times you see a whole line blotted out. I was later sent to Owerri Prison. This action resulted in the civil war which many reasons have been given; from the coup being Igbo-inspired to what General Gowon recently said was driven by Ojukwu’s ambition. Did Ojukwu ever exhibit signs of being ambitious while he was in the military? It is difficult for me to say yes or no. Ojukwu I believe joined the army for a purpose; he wanted to be great or to be known. Whether this Biafran situation gave him an opportunity for that, I cannot say for certain. Ojukwu was eccentric in a number of ways. He would not want to stay in a place and be ignored but whether he went into Biafra as a project to make himself great that I don’t know. What we all believed and what happened to all of us too was that we were pushed to the wall. Biafra never for once attacked Nigeria; when I say never I mean we did not start the war, they brought the war to us starting with Hassan Katsina, the then Army Chief of Staff. He said it was a two-week police action that will liquidate Biafra, which went on and later transformed into all sorts of names. Of course ,when the war started, at a stage when Biafra had to take a counter offensive and move through the Midwest heading for Lagos and it was sabotaged at Benin by Victor Banjo aided by Ifeajuna, otherwise we wanted to carry the war to them and you know the effect it had at the time. Gowon had already started evacuating Lagos; they seized a BOAC flight that was meant to go back to London to take government officials back to Kaduna. Except for that and some other little offensive we launched, we never attacked them; they kept attacking us and brought the war to us.

So many associations and groups MASSOB, the latest being Nnamdi Kanu of Radio Biafra, are calling for the emergence of Biafra. Do you still believe Biafra can happen? Let me tell you, Biafra can still happen but how it will happen I cannot tell you; I am not a soothsayer. If you tell me that Biafra is going to happen by force of arms I will say forget it. I know that from history people have been able to campaign for a course over time, organized themselves so well that it lingers on and on that, in fact, sometimes up to a stage that some will say forget about it while others will persevere. Thank God that today you have the United Nations which can organize and get something that will make Biafra a reality. But not the way MASSOB is going about it. I hear about Nnamdi Kanu and I have listened to the radio a couple of times and I will say it is not the kind of news you will want to hear every day, no. Looking at the crop of Igbo leaders we have today, people like you and some of your colleagues that went into this revolution at the time you did wanted to change what was happening. These days we don’t seem to have leaders that have these ideas, how do you feel about this development? I know that as soon as Ojukwu died people started clamouring for the next Igbo leader. One thing about leadership is that you cannot get it by taking on some titles and raising your hand. It doesn’t happen that way. People have to accept you. A leader emerges; you don’t force them on people. Sometimes a situation creates a leadership. The people we have today, I don’t want to make it look as if we are hopeless. I have learnt something when I was a cadet in the army, a Sergeant-Major used to teach us not to ever say that somebody is useless. Because immediately you say it, that person becomes a demonstration of a useless person to someone who wants to see a useless person. It is humour but it shows something. The kind of leaders we have today, a lot of people are scrambling to survive and we have scrambled for too long since after the war and we still have not gotten there. The types of leadership we have now are not selfless. I believe it will take a while. Don’t ask me why. Before we can get a leader or a situation that will ,,

So it was in the plan those military officers will go? There were some that were marked for elimination. When you do a thing like that you don’t fear death. You try to preserve life but where it is in the way you get rid of it because if you don’t, they will get rid of you. So the unfortunate thing was that Obasanjo, when he came back from India through Lagos, Alexander Madiebo was nominated to go and discuss with Ironsi but Madiebo politely excused himself. Ordinarily that wouldn’t have been allowed. Obasanjo volunteered to go and that was a relief that prevented us from haggling over the issue. And this was somebody Nzeogwu trusted. He went, the result of it was neither here nor there, because I cannot tell you whether he did that job or Ironsi made him believe that he accepted the conditions, but had an ace up his sleeve, according to Ben Gbulie’s account who was with him in the engineers and probably knew him better. But again Gbulie has his own way of judging people. Now the one I can say is that of Lieutenant-Col Conrad Nwawo from Onicha Olona next door to Okpanam; he was much older than all of us; Nzeogwu respected him so did we all. He stammers. Nwawo was military attaché in London at the time and Ironsi called him back; I believe Ironsi was advised that he was one man that Nzeogwu would listen to. He called him back, briefed him and sent him to Kaduna to negotiate with Nzeogwu. Nzeogwu spoke with Nwawo and Nwawo gave him all the assurances but when Nzeogwu and his men got to Lagos, he was sent to Kirikiri. You know Nwawo fought with us on the Biafra side and this thing, I noticed personally, didn’t leave him. It was either Nwawo knowingly betrayed us or that Ironsi used them and got them to believe that he was serious only to get Nzeogwu. When we were in Kirikiri, Nwawo will come and visit us once in a while; I told you he stammers and the reason I mentioned that is to tell you that that time his stammering became worse. When he talked you couldn’t make out anything . So we took it that it was a sign of guilt. But whether it was guilt out of the fact that he knew he did something wrong or he felt bad that he betrayed us, I would not know. We were together throughout the war.

Looking at what is happening in Nigeria today, the spate of corruption, how do you feel? Are you asking me how I feel? If I knew at that time or saw at that time what is happening now, we would have given Balewa, Sarduana, Akintola and the whole lot of them medals for good performance. Because that time they had limited resources, like 10 per cent and that was enough for them, but we thought it was too much and we felt there was too much high-handedness. But what you see today is a shame. Do you have any regrets for being part of the coup? How can I have regrets? I wanted to be in the army, I was in the army and I did what the army dictated for me. That I am still alive today is a bonus. I am happy. What would you have done differently from what you did in your participation in the first coup in the country? Let me tell you, if wishes were horses beggars would ride but unfortunately they are not. But on hindsight, if the scenario were to repeat itself, I know those who were not fit to be in the team. The procedure would not have changed much if everything happened the way it was at that time. Don’t ask me who would have been on the team but I know who would not have been on the team. I think it was William Shakespeare that said there is no art to find man’s heart construction from his face. You saw people they pushed that they are Hitler but you later find out that they are pussy cats. For instance, Major John Obienu from Oba, I don’t know if you heard that name. He was commanding the 2nd Raciest Squadron in Abeokuta; he was to bring his armoured vehicles into Lagos to help neutralize a lot of things including the 2nd Battalion at Ikeja Cantonment. John Obienu, he spoke very good English, instead absconded and did not give any indication that he will not take part. At the end of it all when the coup collapsed, John Obienu was among the federal troops who arrested Nzeogwu and Onwuatugwu when they arrived Lagos from Kaduna. And you can imagine the disappointment when they saw Obienu looking proud and always dressed neatly. Onwuatuegwu told him he will soon lose that green smile on his face. Onwuatuegwu knew that his own time had ended but this man had his coming and it happened during the July countercoup; he was killed in Abeokuta. There were certain lessons we learnt though there was no time for post mortem.

Faith

SUNDAY

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

News Gay lobbyist storms the Vatican p.40

Interview We’ve translated the Bible into 24 Nigerian languages p.41

We didn’t benefit from Dasuki’s largess -CAN, PFN T Tai Anyanwu

Sermon Rape and the role of the church p.45

TAI ANYANWU HEAD, RELIGOUS DESK titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph online.com

op Christian leaders within the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Christian Association of Nigerian (CAN) have dismissed speculations that men of God may not be left out of the roll call of those who benefitted from the arms purchase funds scam of which former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki is the arrowhead. Fielding questions from our correspondent, PFN President, Felix Omobude said that he was not aware that any cleric got part of Dasuki’s largess. His words: “I am not aware that any man of God benefited from the arms purchase money from Dasuki. “We may have people who want to make such allegations. I don’t want to talk about such issues. If you have any question on religious issue, I want to answer such questions. I don’t have competence to talk about Dasukigate.” Also speaking in the same vein CAN Chairman, South-Western Zone, Archbishop George Amu, said: “I don’t know anything about it. I, Bishop Amu, don’t know anything about it or anyone who benefited from it.” The founder of Soul Winners Chapel and accomplished sports administrator, Rev. Moses Iloh, described those who partook in the frittering of the arms purchase money as ‘murderers’. “They are murderers. They have taken the money meant to save lives and exposed the people to murder. The y should be charged for murder,” he said. Iloh, however, explained that he would not vouch for anybody called or addressed as Bishop, General Overseer or a Christian. According to him, there is a big difference between a Christian and a disciple of Jesus Christ. “No disciple of Jesus Christ would take such money meant to save lives,” he added. The President, Christian Welfare Initiative, Archbishop Magnus Ailade added: “Our trust and our prayer is that no man of God will take such money that was meant to purchase arm and free innocent Nigerian from Boko Haram terrorism. “I am almost sure that no Christian leader collected such money,” he said pointing out that no minister of God had so far been named among those who got money from Dasuki. Atilade condemned the way and manner the money was frittered.

Omobude

“It is wrong for anybody to embezzle the money that was meant to purchase arms and save innocent Nigerians from being destroyed, killed by the people who perpetuate that wicked acts. “Diverting such money is gaining from the blood of people. That is wrong. Those who benefited from it should be made to pay for their sins; and the perpetrators of the evil should be punished,” he said. However, despite their claims there has been a lot of speculation that a number of clergymen were given money to drum up support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s

failed re-election bid last year. In the recent past, the embezzlement of N2.1 billion that was meant to purchase arms to fight Boko Haram insurgency, has been a major national discuss. The former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) had confessed that he shared the money to top politicians, media moguls, traditional leaders and other influential members of society. Speaking on behalf of Yoruba traditional rulers, however the Alaafin of Oyo refuted claims that traditional rulers received part of the arms purchase funds.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Roving Worshipper

Gay lobbyist storms the Vatican

with Tai Anyanwu

God speaks to me in the toilet

t is customary for Roving Worshipper to discover one church with unique features, every Sunday. Last Sunday presented another opportunity at the Island branch of Harvester Ministries, Lekki. Traffic on the ever busy Lekki-Epe Expressway, was rather light; and15 minutes pleasant ride took Roving Woshippe to worship arena on 22, Providence Street, Lekki. At 10.41 am, he found a comfortable space within the parking lot along the perimeter fence of the church. As I walked into the church, a stream of worshippers was already leaving the auditorium. The congregation was populated by mostly savvy looking young men and ladies. The young people appeared not in a hurry to depart from the church premises as they converged in small pockets to exchange pleasantries. It was obvious that they were enjoying the company of each other. The ladies giggled while the guys hung around then like a bee would stick very closely to the nectar bearing flower. l felt like ‘O service is over and the opportunity to appreciate the uniqueness of the church blown.’ Just then, another group waiting patiently at one corner of the gate caught my attention. Hi! Is the service ended; I asked a young man who clutched a copy of the Bible? “Yes! Second service is over; the third begins ten minute from now,” he replied. My eyes travelled back to the other side where more people gathered to socialise. It was obvious that the people pay particular attention to what they put on in that church. Lots of beautiful faces, variety of stylish hair dos, cool confident swags were present; and they didn’t looking sanctimonious I would say. Some dressed defiantly provocative. I didn’t realise it could be that serious in a Pentecostal setting until I saw a lanky luscious lady. Incidentally, she took few long strides to my direction. With full breasts that pushed aggressively against her body hug which wore on a seductive hot mini skirt. I was like ‘I didn’t bargain for this.’ Relief came when she anchored in front of a handsome young man. He was dressed casually, in white long sleeve and a pair of

blue jean. “Hi! You are good?” She enquired from the young man. “Yea! Are you good too?” I’m cool, the girl replied, pushing her chest up and holding the young man spell bound with a pair of probing eyes. He! Why are you smiling? She asked her companion; and they both laughed. After a brief chat, they lady dashed back into the church and the young man left the church premises. For me, that was a good appetiser indicating that more things are ahead. Now, another young man stood beside me. “This looks like a young people’s church,” I enquired. “O! Yes. Of course, most of the churches in Lekki, are young peoples’ churches. But if you are looking for old peoples’ church, you will have to go to RCCG or MFM, even RCCG here is updating now. You can’t really attract most people in Lekki if your church is not accommodative of young people,” he replied seriously. Inside, there were soft lightings; and the air conditioner functioned adequately within the vast auditorium. The altar was arranged like a musical stage, without pulpit unit ministration time. Three Screens, the largest one hung at the centre and two sizable ones, each by the sides, announce the church’s upcoming programmes. The service began with some unfamiliar gospel jams laced with rock music kind of instrumentation. It lasted about 20 munities; the congregation freely expressed their dancing steps. The carol proper began with an animated clip of the birth of Jesus Christ; followed by a brilliant presentation of traditional Charismas songs by the children’s church which attracted applause from the congregation. Before the vicar’s message, a tall lady dressed in casual yellow top on blue jean trouser, mounted the sage give what looked like a motivational talk. And then, the guest minister, Bolaji Idowu, from the mainland church, preached on the topic: ‘How to Hear from God.’ He message was very illustrative. U at the end of the day, he came across on a punchy note. “When you are passing through a situation, do not neglect the thought of your heart,” he said.

L-R: Immediate past Chairman, Nkanu East Local Government Council, Enugu State, Pastor Sam Ihiogwe; Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and his wife, Monica, during the New Year prayer session of state Women Prayer Network at Michael Opkara Square, Enugu…yesterday.

Tai Anyanwu,

WITH AGENCY REPORT

he presence of a ‘gay lobby’ within the Vatican City has been confirmed, the Catholic News Agency has reported. Influential Cardinal and adviser to Pope Francis, Oscar Maradiaga, acknowledged the presence of a “gay lobby” in the Vatican during a recent interview, with the Honduran newspaper, El Heraldo. In the interview, the Cardinal explained that Pope Francis has adopted a gradual approach to address it – and that Catholic teaching won’t change. The Honduran newspaper, El Heraldo, asked the cardinal whether there actually was an attempted or successful “infiltration of the gay community in the Vatican.” Cardinal Maradiaga responded: “Not only that, also the Pope said: there was even a ‘lobby’ in this sense.” “Little by little the Pope is trying to purify it,” he continued. “One can understand them, and there is pastoral legislation to attend to them, but what is wrong cannot be truth.” Cardinal Maradiaga is the Archbishop of Tegucigalpa, Honduras and the coordinator of the Council of Cardinals who advise Pope Francis on the reform of the Curia. HIs interview, published Jan. 12, also touched on some perceptions about Pope Francis. The newspaper said some people have interpreted Pope Francis’ other remarks to think there was a possibility the Church would support same-sex marriage. The cardinal rejected this possibility. “No, we must understand that there are things that can be reformed and others cannot,” he said. “The natural

law cannot be reformed. We can see how God has designed the human body, the body of the man and the body of a woman to complement each other and transmit life. The contrary is not the plan of creation. There are things that cannot be changed.” A previous report about the Pope working to counter the “gay lobby” was widely read, but its accuracy was uncertain. In June 2013 the left-leaning Chilean Catholic website “Reflexión y liberación” claimed that Pope Francis had told a meeting of the Latin American Confederation of Men and Women Religious that there is a “gay lobby” in the Church and “we have to see what we can do (about it).” However, the Latin Ameri-

can Confederation of Men and Women said that this report rested on a summary account that relied on the memory of participants, not a recording. This summary was intended for meeting participants and was not intended for publication. The confederation said the reported assertion “cannot be attributed with certainty to the Holy Father.” Pope Francis in a July 28, 2013 in-flight interview returning to Italy from Brazil briefly discussed this alleged lobby in the context of penitence, confession and God’s forgiveness. “So much is written about the gay lobby. I have yet to find anyone who can give me a Vatican identity card with ‘gay’ [written on it]. They say they are there,” the Pope said.

He said that all lobbies are bad and “the gravest problem for me.” Citing the Catechism’s teaching against marginalizing homosexual persons, he said, “If a person is gay and seeks the Lord and has good will, well who am I to judge them?” Cardinal Maradiaga also spoke to El Heraldo about reform and changes to the Church. “We should not expect there will be major reforms in the doctrine of the Church,” he said. “The reform is the organization of the Curia.” He acknowledged resistance to Curia reform, saying there are people who “resist any changes” precisely because “they do not know the life of the Church.” •Culled from Catholic News Agencyjj

Support war against corruption - Cleric Okegwo Kenechukwu ONITSHA.

eligious leaders in Nigeria have been asked to prayerfully support the anti-graft crusade of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. The presiding Bishop of Living Word Alive Assembly, Rev. Silvanus Onwuachu, made the call during ministration at the national headquarters of the church in Nkpo, Anambra State. He explained that the hard times faced by Nigerians could be averted if only fervent prayers are offered and positive steps taken, in the overall interest of Nigerians. He said: “The nation will witness hard times. This year will not be a bed of roses for anybody because of what has been destroyed over the years of military rule and the past 16 years

of civilian Administration through corruption, embezzlement. “Nigerians should stand up and speak against the evils that had culminated in mass unemployment, kidnapping armed robbery and other vices.” One way to take the bull by the horn is to pray for the sustenance of President Buhari’s anti- corruption crusade, the cleric stressed. He urged Nigerians to disregard those he described as arm chair critics who had over the years, kept the nation in the dark. The cleric urged Nigerians to shun those whose stalk- in -trade is to attack the government over its anti corruption war, and to stop nepotism and sycophancy pointing out that witch hunting would not bring about peace, development and unity of this country. His words: “Sectionalism

will also do this country any good, so that if anybody is found wanting he should be made to answer for it”. “You can see how people are looting Nigerian Treasure; in billions while millions of Nigerians were wallowing in abject poverty, innocent people are being killed in the North East Nigeria.” Onwuachu called on president Buhari to pardon and release all those convicted by the military and hold anybody involved in the arms deal scam and responsible of genocide in the North East Nigerian. “If it is true that all past governors received 100 million from the arms deal, they are all corrupt and should be held responsible because they swore to an oath of allegiance to protect the lives of the citizens of this country,” the cleric said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Faith

We’ve translated the Bible into 24 Nigerian languages The General Secretary and CEO of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) Richard Dare Ajiboye, and his team recently visited New Telegraph Newspapers as part of sensitisation tour for the BSN’s 50th anniversary. He spoke on the celebration and other issues in this interview with TAI ANYANWU and VANESSA OKWARA Inception

he Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) will be fifty years old on February 8 this year. I might say some things that will look contradictory to the date, especially when I will be talking about the number of language bibles we have in Nigeria, and I will be telling you that Efik was published in 1868. Then the question will be, if you are going to be fifty, how come Efik was the first local language in Nigeria? There is nothing contradictory. It is just that before we took over in 1966 as Bible Society of Nigeria. We had the American Bible Society in Nigeria, we had the Scottish Bible Society and the British and foreign Bible Society. The British and foreign Bible Society actually was the first bible society to engage in translation of Bible en mass into local language, and that started in 1804. They came to Nigeria in 1807, and at a point they covered the whole of West Africa from Nigeria. They had their old headquarters in Nigeria, and the current office we have now was built in the fifties; it was handed over to us when they were leaving. In 1965, the then Eastern Governor, Sir Akanu Ibiam, agitated for Bible Society of Nigeria as against British and Foreign Bible Society operating from Nigeria; and the request was granted on February 8, 1966; hence the Bible Society of Nigeria was formed. Translation into Nigeria languages Ajiboye Before 2014, we had succeeded in translating the bible to twenty Nigerian local languages. Of course, that is not a pass mark in anyway, because when you look at the number of local languages we have in Nigeria and we are talking of twenty, it means we have a long way to go. But in 2014, four local languages were added to make it twenty-four and those languages are Igbira bible, spoken in Kogi state; Bura bible is a language spoken in Adamawa and Borno State. That translation has some underscore in the sense that we told the translator to come to Lagos and spend one month. The guy was not happy: ‘Why will you ask me to leave my family and come to Lagos for one month,’ he complained. The man completed the job and left. And few months later, Boko Haram went into our translation office in Adamawa and burnt down the whole thing, computer and everything. Now, if he had not been brought to Lagos, those things would not have been in the system. But the fact that he completed them before he left Lagos. He had to leave the soft copy back in Lagos. And that meant that the work of over forty years would have gone down drain. The Igbede bible in Benue state and also Idoma in Benue were also dedicated in 2014. We believe God that this year we are going to have

the 25th bible with the availability of funds. Cost of translation We have other languages that are being translated with over 13 languages now either being reviewed or being translated. To translate into one language cost a minimum of forty million naira, and it takes a minimum of twelve years though we have never achieved that in Nigeria. I am not even too sure if it has been achieved globally; but that was a standard set. That means, if a translation is not completed in twelve years it cannot be forty million naira; it will cost more. It will take such a long time because translation is not purely done from English to the local languages. They are supposed to be done from the biblical languages: Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic into our language. We need to have three translators who should be graduates, and also a translation consultant who must be a Ph.D. holder in either Hebrew, Greek or in Linguistics. But if you have your Ph.D. in biblical languages, we have to train you on linguistics. If you have it in

linguistics, then we have to train you on biblical languages. So it’s not just having it in one, you must be trained on the others so that you will be able to balance the whole thing and that’s why it takes a long time. You have to pay the people for twelve years. No matter how small the salary might be, you know what it means to pay three or four people for that period; not to talk about the other associated costs in terms of training, in terms of material. BSN Golden Jubilee We have lined up series of activities to mark the golden jubilee. One of it is that we want to give out one hundred thousand copies of the Bible for fifty million, if the funds are available. We are giving those Bibles to prisons, rehabilitation homes, orphanages, old peoples’ home and also the blind, the deaf and dumb. It may also interest you to know that the deaf and dumb Bible was introduced in November 1914. Before then in Nigeria, they had no access to the word of God. Statistics or research has it that we have about 7million deaf and dumb people all over the world with Nigeria having about 1million or more. These special

people have a world of their own really, and I have started learning how to sign so that I can relate with them too. Their own Bible takes the form of DVD. So, they will need DVD player and they will need the screen too and we have to give a set like that. That tells you the minimum we will give will be about fifty thousand. We gave one to a group recently and it was actually over sixty thousand. We tell people that it’s not compulsory to give us the money. Interested person can buy the television and the DVD player and give to us. We are interested in giving them their own Bible. We also have the Bible for the blind called ‘’The Brail Bible’’. A set of Brail bible cost forty-four thousand naira. We cannot ask them to buy; we are also going to give them free of charge and we do that every year. The Legacy Bible We have also produced or we are producing what we call the Legacy Bible but we have a dummy here. What is the reason behind this? We were in England last year October and we saw a Bible. We visited a home and we saw a Bible there and of course not as big as the one we are showcasing. We opened it and asked ‘what is this doing in your house. The man said, ‘Well I inherited it from my father’. But actually the Bible was produced in 1864. So, we decided to do something similar to mark our golden jubilee. We decided to produce a legacy Bible that will be bought by parents and passed on to their generation. Maybe I will buy, and then I will hand over as part of the inheritance to my first son. Somebody asked me somewhere, ‘why must it be to your son when you have a first daughter?’ But I will give to my girls too when they are getting married, but for my son he can only take it when I am gone. For the girls, I will give them when I am giving them out in marriage by God’s grace. This Bible has a lot of features. To start with, it has a page called family treasure bequeath; and the essence is that as I’m buying, my name will be here, and I will sign and the day I am gone they will put a date there, and then my son can take, and then he will also put his name and then put the name of whoever he is handing it over to. When he is gone, it will be signed and taken it to that person. And it will continue like that. So, for the next five hundred years, this Bible can keep moving. It’s a five language, parallel Bible. It has English, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Efik parallel. It’s meant also to preserve our languages because it means in any home where you have this, you are having four Nigeria languages there and it’s a point of also uniting. If you come to my house as Hausa or Igbo or Efik person, if we are reading the bible and you want to read in your language, you can go to the small altar in my house and read in your own language. These are the things we plan to do. By God’s grace we are kick-starting from 31st of this month with thanksgiving. On 2nd February, we will be in Enugu to have a lecture where we are trusting Professor Anyanwu Eke to be the chairman. And on the 4th, we will be in Abuja, where General Yakubu Gowon will be the chairman and Bishop Hassan Kuka will be the guest speaker. On the 5th, we will be having a Bible walk. So, we are going to have some newsmen and people who will trek long distance. Then on 6th February, our own staffs and those people who have been supporting us will be having an event and have to say thank you to them. On 8th February will be the final date for the celebration, at museum Centre where we will be having the former president, Chief Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo as the guest speaker. Mr. Felix Ohiwerei will be the chairman of the occasion. And that will be the grand finale. We will also having another thanksgiving on the 7th at the Fountain of Life Church.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Heavens won’t fall if Mbaka rejects transfer – Osu

Stories by Tai Anyanwu

he Director of Communications, Catholic Archdioceses of Lagos, Monsignor Gabriel Osu, has said that heavens will not fall if the wave-making Spiritual Director of Adoration Ministry, Rev. Father Ejike Mbaka, was transferred out of his station, Christ the King Parish, GRA, Enugu State; as being speculated in the media. Father Mbaka had triggered off controversy, prior to the 2015 presidential election, when he prophesied that former president Goodluck Jonathan would be defeated at the poll by

the incumbent president, Muhammadu Buhari. Again in his New Year message, the fiery priest steered the hornets’ nest once more when he predicted that some people had hatched plans to kill the president. On the heels of the latest upheaval that trailed Mbak’s revelation, the media immediately began speculating that the Catholic Diocese of Enugu planned to quietly transfer Mbaka along with other priests, to make it look like a normal transfer. According to media reports, the Diocese is, however, wary of the possible reaction of Mbaka’s followers

and the Adoration faithful, who account for over 80 per cent of the Catholic population in Enugu Diocese. Fielding questions from our correspondent in Lagos midweek on this, Osu said: “If eventually Maka is transferred and he decides to reject the posting heavens will not fall.” Osu, however, descried Father Mbaka as a humble and law abiding priest. He dismissed any conjecture that Father Maka may quit if he eventually transferred. “I don’t think he would refuse if he is eventually transferred. A Catholic Priest dose not resist transfer; a Catholic Priest can be transferred any time, any

His Grace Most Reverend Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins, in procession for the Sunday Service, at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos…

day and anywhere. “And once you are transferred you don’t refuse. You don’t look at anything. As long you are an ordained priest you don’t resist transfer. That is the general principle. That is the position of the church any time and any day,” Osu explained. He explained that the Bishop assigns and transfers priests according to area of need. “So, your Bishop transfers you, you can’t say you can’t go. Who are you o say you can’t go? Osu stressed. Meanwhile, Ohaneze Ndigbo has frowned at Father Mbaka’s recent prophesy that the life of President Buhari is in danger.

PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

‘Good ministers don’t dictate to God’ T he Baba Aladura of Motailatu Chuch Cherubim and Seraphim worldwide (MCCSW), D. Israel Akinadewo, urged ministers of God sand in awe of God saying, “Good ministers have no choice but to yield to the dictates and counsel of God. Akinadewo gave the counsel at the international headquarters of the church

while celebrating the life and times of its founder, Saint Isaiah Akinadewo recently. He was ministering a sermon titled God’s enigmatic parameters: Do the ministers have any choice? In his characteristic manner, the sermon full of illustrations and anecdotes, Akinadewo insisted that throughout the scriptures, God chooses His ministers not minding the

age, size, qualification or capacity of an individual. “Good ministers have no choice but to yield to the dictates and counsel of God, no matter how differently they think or wish,” he said. Akinadewo added: “He gives instructions without allowing you to have your own mind because His standard is embedded in His words and instructions.

All is set for Our Daily Manna anointing service

reparations are on top gear for the World Anointing Night of the Manna Mounting Prayer Ministry, Lagos. The founder and publisher of the daily devotional Our Daily Manna, (ODM) publisher, Bishop (Dr.) Chris Kwakpovwe, disclose this in a chart with Sunday Telegraph. The programme slated for Friday 29th, January 2015, would take place at the Tafawa Balewa Square Complex, (TBS) Lagos Island. According to the organiser the programe concludes the 21-day fasting and prayer, which kick off on Saturday,

January 9th. He explain that about 800,000 worshiper from various nations across the globe including U.K, U.S.A, Zambia, Ghana, South Africa, Canada, Australia, Zambia were expected to participate. Kwakpove also explain that the theme of the program ‘Jehovah Ebenezer Lord Wipe My Tears’ was intended to bring revival to Christian over the world. He encouraged worshipper to bring 12 handkerchiefs (Mantles), which would be used for prophetic prayers. “By the grace of God, as usual, the event will to be awesome, and there shall

be the unusual! God told me that all kinds of barrenness (physical or spiritual) shall give way! What is supposed to make men or women cry in 2016 will be terminated and there shall be total divine visitation head of the year. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever and He will show Himself alive again. It is divine mandate to start the year,” he said. Other anointed men of God along with Dr. Chris, and his wife, Ejiro, are expected to minister in prophetic words while notable gospel artistes will be on hand to sing.

“One mystery about God is that when you do not yield to His warning or you are challenging His choice of servant He has chosen, He might not argue with you or stop you at that first instance. “Even for the men He has chosen to lead His people, when you complain He will start looking for your replacement. Whenever you think you want to do great thing for Him or in glorifying His name, He will tell you I have not asked you to do it. “Whenever He decides to use you and you remain stubborn, He will show you that His God by bringing you to your knees and you have to be begging Him when you are ready.” The founder passed on to glory in December 2014 at the age of 80. Prominent clerics, public officials, friends and associates grace the occasion, which ended with a grand reception. Other activities marking the remembrance of the late founder include launching of a book titled Prophecies and the Messenger, the Lion of Jewel way; and a musical CD by the church’s choir.

Chairman of the seven Igbo speaking states, Elder Chris Eluemunor, stressed that Father Mbaka had become a distraction in the Nigerian polity. According to Eluemunor, Buhari, as Command inChief, was in safe hands; “because the president is doing a good job by fighting corruption and the Ohaneze fully supports his anti-corruption fight.”

“Fr. Mbaka should really shut up and preach the word of God which he was ordained to do than raising unnecessary alarm and creating panic in the country. Even if a revelation was given to him, he should keep it to himself and pray over it. Fr Mbaka’s statement is a distraction to what the President is doing and he should stop the kind of alarm he is raising in the country,” he said.

Church donates foodstuffs, cloths to less privileged

he Liberation Assembly Church International, Ogba, Lagos has put smiles on the faces of widows, orphans and the jobless as part of activities marking its International Convention/Thanksgiving service. There were singing, dancing and thanksgiving to God Almighty as the church brought together members of the society at the special end of year service for 2015. The church’s General Overseer, Apostle George Chidiebere and his wife, Pastor Mrs. Ethna Chidiebere, generously distributed bags of rice and clothing materials to the less privileged as part of giving back to the society. The Apostle stated that the rice was given to the people as type they would eat and never be hungry again, apparently drawing analogy from the communication between Jesus and the Samaritan woman by the

well where Jesus said the water he would give would quench test forever. He stressed that hunger remains one of the causes of sickness in the country. “It is more dangerous than AIDS. It is more dangerous than tuberculosis but it is less considered. Therefore, we have taken time to galvanise forces, to integrate like minds to make the society hunger free,” “In Christmas time like this, nobody thinks whether you’re a Christian, Muslim or pagan.” He said the exercise was meant to reach out to the less privileged because “there are many who can’t afford a cup of rice.” Before giving the rice, a visiting pastor to the church from the United States of America, Pastor William Bumphus, called on all Christians to be faithful in their various dealings with God and fellow human beings because only the merciful shall inherit heaven.

NGO gives succour to orphans, disabled persons

t was a memorable day for orphans, the motherless and people with disability when the Care Peoples Foundation, an arm of the Bibleway Crusaders Church International, provided succor for the needy recently. The occasion was the annual carnival for the disabled persons and the less privileged. The carnival featured Para soccer competition among disabled persons, a lucky dip where the winners took home DVD, Refrigerators, Television, standing fans among other items. Over 20 Orphanage Homes and Schools for the Handicapped in and around Ibadan participated in the activities including dancing competition among the orphans, motherless and other less privileged children. The Homes were given items such as pepper grinding machines, fridges, rice, clothing, and 22 brand new wheel chairs to ease the mobility needs of the disabled.

Also Staff Quarters, blocks of classrooms and a playing ground were commissioned for the benefit of the children in the Care People Foundation Orphanage Home, school in Ibadan. Speaking during the ceremony, the President of Care People Foundation, Rev Paul Tunde Tioluwani, said the Foundation is God’s answer to those who criticize churches saying, missionaries are milking the society and her congregation by way of tithes, offerings and high tuition in Christian school . “I will say that I felt so humbled to be involved with a project that betters the lives of the downtrodden in the society. The truth of the matter is, if we look at our nation, the country has population of about 170m people. So there are far better people than me that God can use for this kind of programme. “So I feel so humbled and opportune by God to be counted worthy to be a partner in this project

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Faith

Love is the greatest of all players

s it possible to play clean game and still win? Yes, we watched a team and Love played a very clean came, dribbling people from the beginning to the end and scored many goods. He felt no animosity towards these who intentionally brought him down. He rose up from the ground laughed and even asked his attackers for forgiveness. He was always cheerful and forgiven. He even pleaded with referee not to punish his intentional attackers. The opponent were very rough and played under tension, but love, the captain of the Team was very lovely and encouraging to all players in his team and opponents. This key player was not puffed up, didn’t behave himself unseemly, not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, beareth all things, endureth all things and yet each time he had the ball, you will hear the shout of G – O – A – L! G – O – A – L! Love was a perfect player, in fact “the greatest” of all players, the Scripture says. And now abideth faith, hope and charity, these three, but the greatest of these is CHARITY (1 Corinthians 13:13).

Word of Life Bishop. Moses Kattey moseskattey@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

Key player 3 (hope) In another football match where a key player HOPE featured was a wonder. Within the first 10 minutes of the game, 5 red cards were awarded to Hope’s team including the goal keeper. They were left with 6 payers against the opponent team of 11 players. How on earth could Hope’s team of 6 players face 11 players of the opposing team? Hope, the captain, encouraged his team mates and assured their coach, the assistant coach and their fans of their victory. Un believable. Some of their fan’s left the stadium. Hope told his team mate that one thing he knew was that God will intervene before the end of the game and give them victory. It was funny, wasn’t it? I left the field. At the end of the game, I saw Hope’s Team singing and celebrating with the cup. What went wrong? How did it happen? Is it coincidence, or miracle? I then remember

the scripture. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also, knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience, and experience HOPE: AND HOPE MAKETH NOT ASHAME- - - (Romans 5;3-5). But we are saved by HOPE but HOPE that is seen is not HOPE; for what a man seeth, why doth he yet HOPE for? (Romans 8:24). It says if you hope you cannot be put to shame, and you cannot be disappointed. It also says that WE ARE SAVED BY HOPE! How does it happen? I left the field because I did not see the evidence of success, of turn around, and the scripture says “for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for.” Key player Hope was right as he said that God would intervene and this Hope saved the Team and saves me daily. Star player: The Lord: You have

watched all the key players I told you about. May I introduced one STAR PLAYER, you will like to watch? What is the difference between in key players and star player? I asked. The Lord: you watch and tell me that answer to that question. The name of the star player is GRACE. I remember in that large congregation where I asked for those whose names was Grace and one elderly man and a small boy came out. Grace, a player, a star player? I watched the fame in a football match final. Report: I saw a strange game where each time Grace had the ball, whether off the field, offside or even if he touched the ball with his hands, the REFEREE refused to blow the whistle against him. There were a lot of protests because Grace would always score, and always break the rules of the game and went scot-free. Even Grace Team mates protested with laughter that that was not how to play. The referee only blew the whistle when Grace scored, and only when the opposing team passed the ball to continue after the score.

Sex is a poor substitute for love

egie Sawyer (not real names) grew up with a good picture in her mind of the type of man she was going to get married to. y the time she was of age, she got engaged to a ‘wonderful’ young man Billy. She thought he was perfect. The period of engagement was so beautiful until the man started demand for sex. Initially, she thought that Billy was not serious and only trying to test her ability to stand firm. To her utmost surprise, the man told her that if she did not yield her virginity that would mean that she doesn’t love him at all and that he would not marry her. Sawyer became confused and worried because she did not want to lose him at all. Or this reason, she consulted with one of her Christian friends who advised her to reject Billy’s demand for premarital sex. She reminded her of the consequences and how it might affect their relationship in future. Not satisfied with the answer, she went to another friend, who told her there was nothing wrong with such decision since they were going to get married after all. With two opposing views, she got even more confused. Pressure from Billy was coming more and more. One day,

Marriage & Family Intimacy

Bishop Charles Ighele holyspiritmissioninc@yahoo.com

07066579379/09098845521 she made up her mind to go to bed with Billy. After the act, she felt so bad; but Billy assured her all was well and that their wedding was going to be soon. Premarital sex and relationship Two days after, she called Billy as usual and got a strange response from him. He told her he did not know who she was and did not want such a call from an intruder in his life. Sawyer thought that she must have called a wrong number. So she went to his office and got a shocker. Billy’s receptionist told her that ‘oga asked me not to allow you into his office again.’ Sawyer could not believe what she had and the experience made her conclude that there was no man should be trusted. Few years later, she realized she was not getting any younger; and contrary to her expectation, she kept going to bed with any man that promised her marriage and she got disappointed again and again. Consequently, Sawyer was always afraid of being abandoned

Ladies should be wise and not allow the issue of marriage to make them lose focus on what is good and right for them because suitors always tell her that the only way to show that she loved them was by having sex with them. And having sex with them never guaranteed nor sealed the marriage deal they were dangling before her. Ladies should be wise and not allow the issue of marriage to make them lose focus on what is good and right for them. It is not only when you sleep with a man that you show the man that you love him. Sex is a poor substitute for love. Do not be deceived into using sex as a yardstick to measure the level of love in a relationship. God designed sex and when He did, He put in man the desire to have sex; as one of the ways of expressing and experiencing physical intimacy. He

however made sex and its desires to be shared by only one set of people – married couple. Within the context of marriage; sex goes hand in hand with many other things like commitment, trust, friendship and many other pillars. But when sex is isolated outside marriage, it does not bring the full satisfaction God intended for it to bring. “My wife is loose” A certain story was told of two Christians that were engaged. In this case, the woman was more spiritual than the man and along the line, the man demanded for sex before marriage. The woman initially refused but later agreed and slept with this man. After marriage, the man felt the woman was lose and was not strong at all in faith. He did not trust her anymore and started seeing her as not being a strong Christian. Every of her move was suspected and every promotion in the office was seen as manipulated with sex. That is what premarital sex can cause even if you end up marrying each other. The man felt that she would yield to any sex demand by any man the same way she yielded to him. He saw her as cheap and easy to manipulate. He saw a woman whom he could not rely on in terms of fidelity even though he partook in the act.

Firm Faith: Right Reason Most Rev. Emmanuel A. Badejo

fradebadejo@yahoo. 0803 949 4219 (SMS only)

The crying project of peace Perfect peace “We cry for peace, perfect peace. We long for peace in this neighbourhood... No water can put out this fire, only love can change our lives, we cry for peace, in this neighbourhood”. Those thoughts come from Mr. Toots Hibbert, one of the greatest reggae singers of decades ago. The theme of peace has since been revisited by so many singers including the unforgettable British pop group of the 60s, The Beatles who sang the undying “All we are saying, give peace a chance”. The theme of peace is not original to Toots, nor was it discovered in our time. The history of mankind, according to the Bible, began peacefully and soon moved into a stage of “peacelessness”. Toots likened that stage of being to a fire, which no water, but only love can put out. He is right. Even Saint John Paul II once wrote: “If we wish to have true peace, we must give it a soul. The soul of peace is love”. Peace is a favourite theme for all human beings. Man brought turmoil into the history of salvation and continues to perpetrate it, provoking and fuelling wars, conflict and disharmony. However, even the biblical prophets predicted the advent of peace at some point to be brought about by the word of Yahweh. The prophet Micah eloquently predicted this: “He will rule over the nations and settle disputes for many people. They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their swords into pruning hooks. Nation will not raise sword against nation; neither will they train for war anymore. But each one will sit in peace and freedom under a fig tree or a vine of his own, for the mouth of Yahweh of hosts has spoken” (Mic. 4: 3-4) Jesus is peace Jesus Christ reiterated man’s need for perfect peace because, even at his own birth, he was named the Prince of Peace (Is. 9:5). It was about him even as the suffering servant that Isaiah prophesied (Isaiah 53:7-11). Jesus pronounced commanding words of peace to his disciples: “Blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called children of God” (Matt 5:9). After his resurrection he assured the disciples of his power after his death when he appeared to them saying: “Peace be with you” (Jn. 21). At every Mass in the Catholic Church, a solemn period is dedicated to the expression of peace. At the call:

“Let us offer each other a sign of peace”, people shake hands or embrace each other and say “The peace of Christ be with you”. It is a reminder of what Christians ought to be committed to everyday. The world day of peace The Church celebrates the first day of every year as the World Day of Peace. Each year, the pope, addresses a particular theme in order to highlight the pursuit for peace among peoples. Pope Francis’ message for the year 2016 was entitled: “Overcome Indifference and Win Peace”. In it, he wrote: “Indifference and lack of commitment constitute a grave dereliction of the duty whereby each of us must work in accordance with our abilities and our role in society for the promotion of the common good and in particular for peace, which is one of mankind’s most precious goods” (N.4). From here it is derivable that peace is not a private good for only one person or a treasure for mere personal preservation. It is an ingredient of the common good for the peace of one depends on the peace of another. That is a characteristic that makes us all the human beings we are meant to be. The pope therefore condemns a situation where people demonstrate lack of concern for what is happening around them, especially if it does not affect them directly, preferring not to ask questions or seek answers about others’ dis-ease. The pope concludes: “In these and in other situations, indifference leads to self-absorption and a lack of commitment. It thus contributes to the absence of peace with God, with our neighbour and with the environment” (N.3). A Cardinal speaks In his Christmas message entitled “Let the Mercy of God flow”, the Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onayekan also decries the indifference that denies mercy even to criminals who make restitution for the evil they have done. This rather un-Christian desire for vengeance betrays the need to overcome our indifference to the pain of others in our country especially during this ongoing Year of Mercy. He wrote: “Too much innocent blood is flowing all over the world. In the face of all this, we have somehow not only been tempted to lose our sense of outrage, but often even approved and hailed such excesses. Our world is full of atrocities. We surely need God’s mercy”.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Insight

Rev. Femi Akinola www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

There must be an answer

“A

nd as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.” John 9:1 Nothing changes in your life until God sees you. Whatever it will cost you to get heaven’s attention you must give it if you must get answers in life. The Bible says the man was blind from birth. According to this passage, the man had two major problems. One, he had a foundational problem, and secondly he was blind. Blindness means he was in total darkness. He couldn’t see Jesus, but Jesus saw him because of his desperate faith. He was in the atmosphere of miracles but couldn’t partake until he got the attention of the Master. He had a foundational problem and was blind. In other words his foundational problem was part of why he was blind. A person’s foundation can affect his vision in life. You might have been saying you want to be this or that and are yet to see any manifestation; people don’t amount to much in life until they have the right foundation, either by laying it themselves or re-laying it. Until you address where you are coming from you might not get anywhere. “And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you: and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him.” Mark 11:2 Jesus said here; go to the village that is against you… Your village is never for you but against you. Every tribe has issues that are unique to them. Family problems that are in the blood are very strong problems. This is why God often addresses people’s problems from the blood. Your father’s blood runs in your vein and until you are able to conquer your private blood (or family battles), you can’t have public victory. There is a power from your father’s house that does not want you to reach your desired end in life, but you must be tougher than them and fight with all the weapons God has given you in His word. Every power saying you will not be better than your fathers, I command them to expire in Jesus name. Jesus Christ did the unusu-

al; he spat on clay, moulded it and made concrete out of it which he put on the blind man’s eyes. To the ordinary eyes, this seems to complicate the man’s problem. But Jesus simply did the mysterious by going to the man’s source of creation (dust), to recreate the damaged part of his body. Sometimes, until it gets worst it cannot reveal the best. When it seems you have prayed and nothing is working, keep at it, for until it becomes very bad it does not reveal the best. Maybe you are reading this right now and doctors have told you that your womb has been tampered with, or that a particular part of your body is bad, I want you to believe because God can recreate it if you stretch your faith and agree with His word. I prophecy that whatever it is that will take you to your promised land and give you the miracle you desire is hereby created, take it in Jesus name. “O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.” Ps 90:14 There are things you must get in the morning time of your life. Some things are no longer beautiful if got them in your old age. It is God’s will for you to be satisfied early in life. I see you receiving all your heart desires in Jesus name. Normally people are anointed with oil, but Jesus anointed him with clay. This signifies that in times of trouble we must always go back to our first love, the way we used to serve God with all our hearts and strength. How do you get answers? First, you must have a go ahead from God concerning anything you want to do in life. After Jesus anointed him with clay he asked him to go and wash; I was wondering how the man would get there considering the fact that he was blind. And God showed me that ‘when he sends you, he backs you, so you don’t fall.’ When God sends you He gives you the necessary backing; when He sends you, nothing will be impossible for you. Secondly, God gave him a location. Your allocation in life is in your location. When you miss your location, you miss your blessings. While on the way, he must have collided with many people.

Targets of dreamland enemies

he spiritual realm is as real as the physical environment. It is superior to the physical environment. When an individual has become a target or victim of robbery in the dream, the person must be earnestly go spiritual to prevent the manifestation physically. Just as physical theft and robbery are real, spiritual theft and robbery are more than real. What are the target items of the enemies in the dream? Clothes/coat/garments Stealing or loss of your clothe in the dream is an attack of your glory and honour. This can lead to demotion in life, marriage, career, business. If you also put on the inside of your garment outside or turn the back to the front when you wear your cloth in the dream, it implies that the enemy has turned the life of the person upside-down. Close your eyes and pray: - Spiritual robbers attacking my glory, die in the name of Jesus. - My garments in the coven of witches and wizards catch fire in the name of Jesus. Cap/scarf Stealing or loss of these items can be deadly as it portends sudden death of

Hour of Deliverance Pastor Isaac Adelugba

08058023548

spouse. Vehicles Loss of vehicle in the dream is an attack on progress and moving forward. You need to dispatch the angels of God to recover such vehicles. Such dreams can cause business stagnancy and if you are a career person, this type of dream can downgrade your performance appraisal rating no matter how good you are. It can make the victim to lose incoming good opportunities. It can lead to loss of favour. Shoes Stolen shoe indicates that marital turbulence is in the offing. It is a signal of marital hindrance. For bachelors and spinsters, this can lead to delay marriage, wrong suitors, no suitors at all or deceivers who are only interested in sex. For the married, it can lead to the collapse of marriage. The husband may be sleeping outside and not coming home. The marriage will be troubled with such problems as using sex as a weapon to settle quarrel. The spouses will just not be interested in the

marriage. Ephesians 6:15 “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;” Shoe can also represent ministry and work of the gospel. Loss of shoes can be attack on your ministry. Wedding items such as gowns, rings Loss o these items in the dream can cause separation, divorce or total death of the marriage as the couple will be living together as enemies. Bible Loss of Bible is an attack on the spiritual life of the victim. The prayer zeal of the victims can go down while reading the Bible will become dry. The victim will not get revelation from reading the Bible. Evangelism and Visitation will be boring and unattractive. Eye glasses Loss of eye glasses in the dream is an attack on your spirit of revelation, visions. The enemies want to put the victims in spiritual darkness and blindness. Handset Prayer is a form of communication to the

Almighty. If you lose your handset in the dream or it is stolen, the enemies are waging war against your prayer life hence such prayer life can become dull and nonaggressive, non-fervent and non-effective. Dreams of theft must be handled with serious prayer and fasting as good things and success will elude the victims. Proverb 6:30-31 “30 Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry; 31 But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.” Loss of financial instruments This is a serious financial attack that can lead to delayed payment, debt, loss of money and duping. You need to fast and pray to cancel it. Prayer point: 1. I recover back all my stolen blessings in the name of Jesus. 2. Spiritual robbers that are stealing from me, be consumed by fire in the name of Jesus. 3. I receive anointing to conquer spiritual robbers in the name of Jesus. 4. Angels of the Living God go all over the world and recover all that had been stolen from me in the name of Jesus. 5. O Lord, restore me to the position that spiritual theft had cost me in the name of Jesus.

Discover the magic word of champions

ny person, situation or circumstance in opposition to your peaceful existence, progress, success or breakthrough is a challenger. Also anything standing against the will and purpose of God for your life is a challenger. The word of God declared in the book of Philippians 3:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.” This is one of the greatest languages or slogan of achievers. It is a language that generates courage and boldness. It is necessary for your victory, glory and ultimate celebration. Walk by faith, be focussed and not distracted. The catalyst or propelling force to glory and victory is perseverance. Hebrew 10:35 says, “Cast not away your confidence which has great recompense of reward, ye have need for patience that after you have done the will of God you shall receive the promise.” In 1 Samuel 17:28, the Bible records that the eldest brother of David discouraged

all over the place and that they (Israelites) were like grasshoppers before them. That was a great challenge to the vision and mission of Joshua and Caleb. In verse 30, the Bible recommended, Bishop John Ogbansiegbe “and Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said ‘Let 0803 341 6327 (SMS Only) us go up at once, and possess it for we are well able to overcome it.” him and said, “I know thy No matter the level of You need to be determined pride and naughtiness of and have faith in God, for thy heart; where did you the challenge before you to overcome and defeat leave those few sheep.” This you, determine to walk your challenger in this ultihe said in great anger. Both by faith, and be positive mate fight. Hebrew 11:1 says, Abinadab and Shamma all in your confession “Now faith is the substance discouraged David. of thing not seen.” When In 1 Samuel 17:33, the Bible you deposit letters in a mail records that to fight, there another challenge and is an elastic limit to every discouragement, when King box, you believe that it will get to its destination. When problem. There is a limit Sault said to him, “Thou you deposit money in your to which you draw rubber, art no able to go against the bank account, you believe, it and rubber will refuse to go. Philistine to fight with him Sometimes, we are tested to for thou art but a youth, and will be delivered to you on the limit of our endurance. he a man of war from birth.” request. When you complain of sickness to a doctor, you Life is such that when one David withstood the believe in his ability to treat feels that he is getting close intimidation from Goliath, you. Most doctors will give to the zenith of success, the the gigantic Philistine waryou injection which you do person discovers that life’s rior. He replied; “You come not know their names. lessons have just begun. to me sword and spear and Yet your faith in them Indeed, there are giants on shield, but I come to thee in your way to the Promised the name of the Lord of host, keeps on working for you. Land. In the face of a trial, the God of the army of Israel When you enter in an airplane, you believe that it will be ready and determined to whom thou has defiled. He challenge your challenger conquered and defeated his take you to your destination. (difficult challenges enhance challenger with a stone from These are natural faith based on what you see. No matter our strength, growth and a sling. the level of the challenge beexperiences. See challenges, The ten spies gave an evil identify challenges; but be report that the sons of Anak, fore you, determine to walk by faith, and be positive in ready to face them by faith. the Amalekites, Jebusites, Every David encounters Hittites and Canaanites were your confession.

Mystery of Anxiety

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Faith

Entrance of God’s word is life (11)

he word of God is the truth; and when Abram believed the truth, the scripture says, he received God’s righteousness. In the truth is the righteousness of God. The scripture says in Psalm 85:11 “ Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven.” That is, as truth of God, the faith of God covers or spread upon the earth, then shall righteousness comes like dew from heaven. The breastplate of righteousness that protects you from the attack of the evil doer is received through your belief or action in the faith of God in Christ, which conceive in the truth of God’s word. You need not be afraid of the enemy, who wars against you; your belief in the truth of God will automatically provide breastplate of righteousness sufficiently able to protect your heart. You do know now the importance of your belief which attracts righteousness capable of protecting you from the attack of evil doers. Remember your heart is the dwelling place of God’s Spirit, and the region of

Just believe Pastor Joseph Folonusho

rlpm2007@yahoo.com

08020838591

decision. And therefore, you shall be delivered from all oppression. Isaiah 54:14 says, “ In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee.” Righteousness is the grace of God which comes from Christ Jesus to you; even if no one is praying or interceding for you before the LORD in the time of your challenge; and it looks as if the whole world is against you, God’s righteousness will sustain you. Therefore, you will not fall to the hands of evil creation. The scripture says in, Isaiah 59:16 “And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.” Because you believe in

God through the finished work of grace and mercy of God’s son, Jesus Christ; your belief shall always sustain you in the time of difficulty and trial, even when no one is filling the cap. Another great blessing of righteousness is that it helps you to rule over creation. Righteousness makes you King over visible and invisible creations. You are only subject to God Almighty, the Giver of the righteousness. Creation becomes subject to you because of righteousness which you receive through your belief. In Isaiah 32:1 the scripture says, ”Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment.” In God’s righteousness which you received by your action on God’s faith will make all your enemies, no matter their numbers subject to you. They are like

pencil in your hand; you have the capacity to determine what you do with it. Whatsoever you determine will be. You don’t go before the LORD crying because of them, but you determine what their lot becomes by the reason of the power of righteousness. God has set you as King over them. You can cause their fruitful vine to become desert. But to you who belief, you shall remain fruitful vine, peace shall be your lot, quietness and assurance are certain unto you because of righteousness. As the saying goes In Isaiah 32:16-17: ”Then judgment shall dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness remain in the fruitful field. And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.” The scripture says, Noah was righteous in his time. And when his third son saw his nakedness, he placed a curse on the first Son of Ham. And it was absolutely so. Without sin, he placed his second son under the tent of the first son, and it was so. This is the power of righteousness at work through the One that is righteous.

Rape and the role of the church Rape, a tragedy Rape is a tragedy. Our attitude toward rape victims is no less a tragedy than the crime itself. As a pastor I have ministered to rape victims, and each time, the crisis has compelled me to participate in the hurt and the pain of the victims. Even among my congregation, I can’t remember anyone ever talking about rape in any constructive manner, except to note the event as a “sign of the last days.” Nothing can justify such callousness. Rape is the ultimate expression of sex abuse. In fact, a violent sexual act; and we have a pathetic picture of a chronic tragedy that plagues our society. Rape is not always the act of a stranger. Rape can happen even within marriage. A husband often feels free to force his wife to submit to him. He might tie her up or even threaten her with a knife at her throat. A man cannot be prosecuted for marital rape. He may face charges for other violence connected with marital rape, but not for sex without consent. Thus rape of any kind marital rape, date rape, or rape involving neighbours, casual friends, or strangers violates the personhood of the victim.

Rape and the role of the church Bishop Isaac Idahosa Email: idahosapraywithe@yahoo.com

Facebook: www.facebook/Bishop Isaac Idahosa

+234-703-445-1114/234-818-654-2935

Then there is the added tragedy of unfair judgment on victims as if they caused the crime by dressing inappropriately or behaving in “a come hither manner,” thus inviting the violence perpetrated against them. Rape and society Rape is a judgment on our societal norms and mores. We promote a culture that regards sexual activity more as an outlet of passion than as an expression of love. Movies and telecasts portray sex as a biological function indulged in casually without commitment. Even when speaking of freedom and equality of women, we still harbour the myth that women are subordinate to men, they being the weaker sex. Such social and gender-oriented myths contribute to manipulation of, and sexual violence against, women. Rape, as an act of violence and humiliation, causes in the victim an overwhelming fear for her very existence and an

equally overwhelming sense of powerlessness and helplessness. This fear and helplessness are made even more threatening by the complex process of reporting a rape. Biblical perspective The Bible speaks forcefully against sexual exploitation. Throughout Scripture, sexual relations are portrayed as holy, ordained of God at the time of Creation, not to be indulged frivolously, and certainly not to involve violent trampling of the rights and dignity of the marriage partner. The seventh commandment is not simply a prohibition of adultery; it is a divine commission governing sexual relationships. Directives uplifting this model relationship abound in the Old Testament. A man who seduced a woman was required to marry her (see Deut. 22:13-29). To have sexual relations with an engaged or married woman was a capital offense (see Deut. 22:22, 24). Seducing an

unengaged girl was a crime (see Ex. 22:16, 17). Incest was prohibited (see Lev. 19:29). Many Old Testament stories illustrate the intense rage expressed against rapists (see Gen. 34; 2 Sam. 11:12-14; 13:1433; 16; Judges 20:5). Although the New Testament does not speak specifically about rape, Christ’s teaching on adultery defines for us the high road of sexual relationships. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus defined adultery not just as an act, but as a thought that precedes the act. “Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully,” said Jesus, “has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matt. 5:28, NIV). This pronouncement affirms the highest value and dignity of a human being and precludes the passions and lust that motivate rape. Consider also how Jesus dealt with the woman caught in adultery (see John 8:2-11). He turned the table on the men who likely were responsible for her act. Jesus focused on the thoughts of men toward that woman rather than on her actions or the accusation against her. “It is not the presence of a woman, but the sinful thoughts of a man, which makes the situation dangerous.” •To be continued next

Our Daily Manna Bishop Chris Kwakpovwe

ourdailymanna@yahoo.com

08023421513, 08073146863 (SMS Only)

Abba Father: Be an enemy to my enemies this year

elcome to today’s devotional encounter with He that contends with they that contend against you. Note that from Ex 33:11, God is not looking for just children, but real friends. He can create a million children in a second of human Calendar. But He is looking for friends because He wants deep fellowship with man as He did with Adam in the cool of the evening at the Eden Garden. Jesus called the disciples His friends. John 15:14-15 says, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants…but I have called you friends…” Amazing! So in 2016, you are not just His servant but His friend. He called Abraham “Friend” in Isaiah 41:8. So, since Jesus called the disciples and you His friends, then the principle of, my enemy’s enemy is my friend and my enemy’s friend is my enemy applies in the 12 months of this year. Fear not. Satan is an enemy of god, and since you are Satan’s enemy, God is your friend because his enemies’ enemy (you) is his friend. That is why God will be ‘an enemy to your enemies this year’ – If your ways please the Lord and your hands are clean. Clean hands do not mean perfection, but it means a clean heart. Difficulties prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. So, in the midst of enemies/ difficulties, make sure your hands are clean and you will never lose a battle. Do all you can to be at the last-day world anointing service –the Ebenezer night of wonders and a night of 12 mantles in this 21-day fasting programme: Friday January 29th, 7pm. Also, you come into the world empty and you shall leave empty. Sow towards the needs of the world anointing night, and get your prophetic, special, dedicated prayer points! Then watch God wipe away that tear in 2016 as He did to Ruth! Amen! Pray now! Jehovah Ebenezer: I shall not walk alone Welcome to today’s devotional encounter in this 21-day worldwide fasting programme to begin the year! It is better to walk alone than with a crowd going in the wrong direction! But in God’s divine design, He never intended

for you to walk alone except when you are taking a stand for Him against the mixed multitude of evil. God has designed you to win with a helper in your life and ministry! Even Jesus Christ, our friend and master, needed John the Baptist to HELP prepare His way! Moses needed Aaron; Esther needed Mordecai to succeed! At a stage, Jesus Christ needed Peter’s boat, David needed Joab, Elijah needed Elisha, Mephibosheth needed David to rise to royalty, etc. the list goes on and on about life. In life, none of us truly wins until we all win! You need someone to make you win that is why you were created to help somebody win. The value of your life this year would be determined by the kind of people you come across and by those whose lives you touch. A wrong person(s) can become an affliction to your dreams and a right person(s) can become an announcement too your goals. When people walk out of your life, let them go; your destiny was never tied to anyone who leaves you! And it does not mean they were bad people. It just means their role in your life’s story is over! New helpers will locate you! Yea! As you fast and pray today and at the Friday January 29th world anointing night (Ebenezer night of 12 mantles), Jehovah your God will set up a divine, mathematical equation that will connect you to the right person(s) in the 12 months of this year! At that Night also, the Holy Ghost will send an EAST WIND that will blow away the wrong person(s) out of your life, family, career and ministry and God will settle every past rift and prevent future rifts between you and your helpers in Jesus name. Yes, you shall not walk alone. Pray now and don’t miss that Night! You shall be noticed! Prayer points Pray about today’s word generally as led now. O Lord, stretch forth your might hand of power to deliver me from the mouth of them that are out to swallow me in Jesus name. Lord God, arrange the mysterious meeting between my helpers and I in this year 2016, beginning from this January (Mention the 12 months of the year). Thank you Lord! Basic scripture: John 15:11-21

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Should missionary schools charge high fees?

•AGBOOLA DAVID y opinion is that the church members are not giving offering and tithes to anybody but they are doing that for themselves because they know the benefits they receive by doing such. Whether it’s missionary or private school, there is nothing different. If you want good thing for your child, then you need to pay the price so that the school will render good services to your child?

•FADAIRO ABIMBOLA f you want to give your children a quality education you will have to pay for it. Nothing goes for free because if you really want a quality education you must pay for it. It doesn’t matter if the school belongs to a church. Everything has to do with money. If you want a conducive place of learning for your children, then you need to pay for it. So it shouldn’t be a free thing. If it is free you won’t get what you want. It shouldn’t be expensive. It is not all church schools that are expensive. It depends on the facilities they have.

•OLAKUNLE AKINDLIE issionaries of the olden days when they were establishing schools made it easy for the people. Then, missionaries had funds that they brought into such schools. But now if churches are building schools, firstly it is church funds that are being used to do such. If you are looking at the offerings and tithes as where the money will come from, fine. If we are now looking at how the schools should be made easier for the worshippers, yes I agree with that. But if the church is running a school they will look at the cost to arrive at the fees. Church schools and missionaries are not the same. The moment a church is establishing a school they would have to make it affordable to all.

•BIMPE ABIORO irst of all I would like to say that the churches are separate entities from their schools. In a situation where you have a big church, I don’t believe the tithes, offerings, seeds are for the schools. In fact, the churches have full complement of staff that they pay salaries. I also believe that the school is a separate entity that should be paid for, especially when you get good value from what you are paying for. Also, the payment of fees should be made easy for the parents, especially when they are members. In some cases, church members are given scholarships.

• EBENEZER FATOYE ducation is costly. If schools want to give quality education to their pupils, they will require a lot of capital to be able to do that. This is except it is through tithes. If you really want qualitative education, then it requires money. That is one of the reasons why I think people sending their children and wards to mission schools should be ready to pay fees, otherwise the teachers will not be well paid.

•CHIOMA AMALUOJI

n my own opinion, missionary schools should not be made unaffordable to all the parents whether they are in the church or not. If parents pay tithes, offerings or sow seeds, I think it is for the growth of the kingdom of God and a personal thing. So it should not be attributed to whether their children should be allowed or whether the school fees should be affordable for them. I believe if the school is being made affordable to them it should be for all. It won’t be valuable if the parents cannot appreciate the work being done. What about the qualities of lecturers and teachers being employed? How will they be paid? Also if they want it affordable for everyone in that church paying tithes, offerings and making contributions, they should also know they will have to employ quality teachers.

•FRANCES IGWEZE ince it is the house of God, the people in it should be able to afford the fees. The school fees should not be too much but be moderate. The churches should not make the school fees too high for their members but make them moderate. Thank you.

S •GBENGA OLADIYUN ell, based on what is happening today, some people open churches now for profit making or to make money. These people don’t consider the less privileged. When the missionaries came to Africa, they made educational insitutions affordable for the less privileged. You find out that it is only the rich that that can send their children to some missionary schools. They should emulate the missionaries of old because they also benefited from the missionary schools. They should look at how to draw people to the kingdom of God and not the monetary aspect. They should also reduce the fees because they have enough money to maintain their schools.

•OLUREMI AKINTOLA t is not as if all the money they use in the schools comes from the churches. Many people may go to church without paying their tithes and offerings. It is not every time these people pay their tithes. Even if it is an individual or organisation that is running the school, they will still spend the same amount of money. To get quality education, they need to charge according to how they are spending to maintain the school. This is because if the school is not expensive, they should be expecting low quality education there. Everybody wants to raise the bar of excellence so you can’t say that because they are churches they should charge less.

•KAYODE FOWOWE part from evangelism, missionary schools should be able to teach their pupils to achieve their aim in life. These schools, I think, should not be expensive because of the poor ones among the members that can’t afford the fees. There will also be the rich among church members that can afford to pay, no matter the cost. So what I believe is that missionary schools should be affordable for everybody so that it can accommodate both poor and rich. This will enable everyone to be part of the educated ones in the future.

A •RACHAEL CHU y opinion is that after paying your tithe and offering Iit s between you and your God. School fees are not supposed to be high for parents. The church should make sure the fees are moderate and affordable, if there is a need for increment, the school should invite the parents and the increment should be discussed at the Parent/Teacher Association meeting so that there will be an agreement between the school authorities and the parents.

•OLUWABUNMI SALAM f the school fee for missionary school is low, the student might not get the best needed If you look at most schools that their fees are high, you will find out that the students are of high standard but if the price is low, whatever they dish out to your child, you would aspect it. If you know you can afford it, you can subsidise the amount for the members of the church.

I •WOLE IKUEFAN t is meant to be affordable because I go against churches that open schools that are too expensive. The church school is not meant to be expensive. In those days the missionaries made everything easy and free. Why was it free at that time? Because it was those churches in Europe that were funding the workers here in Nigeria.

Compiled by Amarachi Nwosu and Eunice Stephen

SundayBusiness 47

SUNDAY

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

News

Ex-BPE Director petitions Osinbajo over N455m diversion

p.48

Business News Nigeria’s fuel crisis may linger till 2018 — Bloomberg p.50

Interview

Vehicle tracking is not status symbol – Eno Essien p.49

PAUL OGBUOKIRI HEAD, BUSINESS paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph online.com

Zero forex allocation to BDCs will favour banks – Analysts W

Paul Ogbuokiri ith the announcement on Monday by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) lifting its restriction on commercial banks from accepting cash deposits in foreign exchange from customers, experts say the apex bank may have tacitly started to gradually relax its strict regulation of the naira, a policy the CBN adopted last year to avoid rapid depreciation of the currency. This is coming as the Central Bank also announced that it has equally discontinued sales of foreign exchange to the 2, 789 Bureau de Change (BDC) operators in the country, accusing them of excessive greed and rent-seeking practices. While most analysts spoken to by the Sunday Telegraph, said the decision to lift the restriction on forex deposit is a right step in the right direction, they averred that the decision to stop allocating forex to BDCs will only profit the deposit money banks. “It is not in the overall interest of the country. Getting and exchanging forex will become more difficult and in the long run, dollars will become more expensive,” Olatunji Oronsanya, who is a professor of Economics at the Bayero University, Kano, said. Oronsanya further described the CBN decision as a trial and error economics... “If you are going to borrow from IMF President Buhari welcoming the IMF Managing Director, Ms. Christine Lagarde, during her four day visit to Nigeria... and foreign lenders; you shall not impose recently restrictions on foreign exchange so that lenders and investors can pull their funds out whenever they deem fit.” devastated by the ban. The naira is going to of BDCs with the kind of arrangement He further said: “Foreign investors will depreciate further; toward the end of this the nation is running. “They act as mere continue to shun Nigeria until the man- week we may see it reach N300 per dollar distributive conduit pipes by simply getagement of the currency is subjected to at the parallel market. ting forex allocation from the CBN and market principles.” “We can no longer access the banks auselling to every Nigerian out of the mulBut the Head of Africa Research for tonomous funds, the export proceed funds. titude that need forex, thereby making Standard Chartered bank, Razia Khan, So we will be left with only walk in custheir profits without making value addiholds a different view. tomers if the CBN eventually closes its tion,” he said. “By curbing the official sale of foreign window to BDCs.” In a statement, the MAN chief said forex exchange to BDCs, the CBN is probably Gwadabe said that while it’s true that allocated to the BDCs should rather be signalling its tolerance for at least a seg- Nigeria is the only country in the world channelled to the productive sectors of ment of the forex market (commercial where BDCs get weekly allocation of forex the economy, especially manufacturers banks) to be more market-determined, from the Central Bank, “it is also a known for the importation of essential inputs and with the exchange rate based on demand fact it is only in Nigeria that CBN collects machinery that are not locally available, and supply. N35 million compulsory deposits from as well as to the social welfare segment of “The move to allow commercial banks BDCs just to give them a license. I think the society, such as hospitals and schools, to accept US dollar deposits may also be that compulsory deposit is one of the major among others. a step towards a liberalisation of the cur- causes of this problem.” Most of the analysts further said that if rency market,” he said. The Association of Bureau de Change the Central Bank lifts the ban that preAlan Cameron, an economist at Exotix Operators of Nigeria will hold an emervents commercial banks from selling Partners LLP, said the decision “Looks gency meeting with its members and will foreign exchange to the BDCs, the goal like an effort to draw volumes back to the request talks with Central Bank officials, for which direct allocation of forex to the more tightly regulated official market. Gwadabe said, adding that not less than BDCs from the CBN would be defeated. “(It) will be difficult to establish con- 26,000 jobs will go. Though Gwadabe said over 26,000 jobs fidence in the official rate. At the same Meanwhile, the Manufacturers Assowould be lost if CBN does not reverse the time, any with access to hard currency ciation of Nigeria (MAN) says it is in full decision, analyst insisted that the action of will have a strong incentive to channel support of the action of the Central bank the Central Bank would save many more them through the parallel market.” against the BDCs, saying CBN has no busijobs than what would be lost by the BDCs. According to the Central Bank Gover- ness funding the Bureau de Changes in the The announcement by the Central Bank nor, Godwin Emefiele, henceforth, the first instance. on Monday came days after a visit by the BDC operators would source their forIts President, Dr. Frank Udemba Jacobs, Managing Director of the International eign exchange from autonomous sources. wondered why BDCs should depend on Monetary Fund, Christine Lagarde, when Also, the President, Association of official allocation of forex from CBN, inshe told lawmakers that the IMF did not Bureau de Change Operators, Aminu stead of exploring alternative funding support foreign exchange restrictions. Gwadabe, who lamented the policy of windows. The IMF has not hidden its opposition to the Central Bank, said: “The naira will be Jacobs also questioned the real functions the current policy of regulating the naira.

BUSINESS/NEWS

Abdulwahab Isa

he integrity toga of the nation’s number one privatisation agency - Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), would never be intact again as a former Director of the agency, Kashim Ibrahim has accused the management of fraud and diversion of over N455 million set aside for the payment of retirees’ terminal benefits The retired Director made the allegation in a petition he send the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo. In the petition dated November 2, 2015, Ibrahim amongst others alleged non-payment of his terminal benefits and described the conversion of the amount to other purposes as fraudulent. Kashim said he retired in Directorship cadre last year having joined defunct Technical Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation (TCPC) which later became the Bureau of Public Enterprises as a Senior Executive Officer (Legal) in 1992 and rose to become a Director in 2007 and retired on November 21, 2015 having served as a Director for eight years. He further said in the petition that the new condition of service approved for BPE under which his terminal benefits and other two retired Directors fell had been jettisoned by Director General of BPE, Benjamin Dikki, while the sum of N455 million due to them was converted by management of the agency as entertainment allowances to the management staff. “The NCP at its meeting of Thursday June 9, 2014 approved a series of amendments to the BPE Staff Conditions of Service upon the recommendation of its Finance Committee headed by the then Minister of Finance. This was as a result of years of agitation by staff seeking better terms of engagement. I had the privilege of chairing the in-house committee that made all the presentations and met severally with the then Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo - Iweala and officials from the Finance Minister. One of the items approved by the NCP was Terminal Benefits for exiting staff. It was to take effect from 2015. For that purpose, NCP approved for inclusion into 2015 national budget the sum of N455, 266,618:23. The staff due to retire in 2015 are; Ibrahim Muhammad Kashim (Director), Hajiya Fati Abubakar (Director) and Afolabi Mathew (Deputy Director). I led the team that met severally with Budget officers in the Ministry of Finance and Salaries and Wages Commission. We got all necessary approvals”, he claimed in the petition deposited in the VP’s office. “Your Excellency, shortly before my retirement date, as is the practice, the Human Resources unit initiated an internal memo seeking the DGs approval to direct accounts unit to pay me my entitlements. Sadly the DG minuted that it was not accommodated in the 2015 budget. He maintained his po-

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Ex-BPE Director petitions Osinbajo over N455m diversion

L-R: Chairman, Egbin Power Plc, Mr Kola Adesina; Hononourable Minister of Power, Works & Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, (SAN) and Group General Manager, Special Duties Commercial & Investments NNPC, Dr. Bola Afolabi, during the Minister’s monthly meeting with sectorial participants, at the Main Auditorium of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Maitama, Abuja…recently

sition ever since. I wrote severally and later through my counsel to no avail. Then we went to court to protect my interest. Sadly the BPE management rather than pay me in line with various management committee directives, engaged the services of a top lawyer, who was the last Chairman of the NCP Legal Committee, using public funds to file a ridiculous defense that I was not a BPE staff that I was employed by TCPC, a position unfortunately laughable in logic and law”, Ibrahim said in the petition sighted by Sunday Telegraph. The embattled Ex-BPE Director also made other claims including allegations that some highly placed officials of BPE compromised in some privatised enterprises, particularly the privertisation of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria. In his response, BPE management faulted claim of funds diversion by Ibrahim, saying it was untrue and mischievous. Stating this in a statement issued by BPE spokesperson, Alex Okoh, the agency said its decision was guided by the provisions of the Pension Reform Act. “BPE has explained that by the provisions of Section 4(1) of the Pension Reform Act 2014 (Pension Act), the obligations of the employer is to make a contribution of a minimum of 10 per cent of the employees monthly emoluments in addition to a minimum of 8 per cent contribution by the employee and remit the combined sums to the employees Retirement Savings Account (RSA)” On complaint against the Director- General of the Bureau, Mr. Benjamin Dikki by Ibrahim over non-payment of the former director’s terminal benefits, BPE said that upon retirement and attainment of the age of 50 years, in accordance with the

provisions of Section 7(1)(a), the employee will be entitled to a withdrawal of a lump sum payment and subsequently a programmed monthly or quarterly withdrawals calculated on the basis of expected life span. According to BPE, once the employer makes the statutory contributions, it has no other obligation to the staff retiring. The statement noted that, the Bureau in its desire to ameliorate the plights of its retired staff over the financial dislocation they went through before they could access payments from their RSA, decided to explore the provision of Section 4(4) (a) on the Pension Act which gives employers the discretion to make additional payments of benefits to its retiring employees. “It was intended to provide a cushion of funding for retiring staff pending when they were able to process and access their RSA’s. Consequently, the National Council on Privatisation approval was sought to create terminal benefits for the Bu-

reau’s staff who are retiring. This was however, subject to the approval of the Salaries and Wages Commission, the body that has the statutory powers to approve Salaries and Allowance of Public Servants. The Salaries and Wages Commission declined approval of the Terminal Benefits on the grounds that the Bureau cannot be singled out of the entire Public Service for such special treatment. Once the Salaries and Wages Commission does not approve the benefits, such cannot be included in the budget template and be funded”, it stated. The statement noted that, by the provisions of the Pension Act and the determination of the Salaries and Wages Commission, is no terminal benefit payable to Mallam Ibrahim Kashim or any staff. “We wish to emphasis that all retirement benefits are paid by PENCOM in line with the Pension Act and all the ex-director’s records have been forwarded to PENCOM for pay-

ment. He has been advised to follow-up with PENCOM for payment”, BPE clarified. On allegation by the retired Director that a lawyer was hurriedly engaged by BPE boss to wind up former Power Holding Company for over N1.5 billion, Okoh faulted the claim. “Ibrahim lied when he stated, that the former DG, Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa was removed partly because she has refused to accept the appointment of a prominent PDP lawyer to wind up PHCN for an amount exceeding N1.5 billion. “The fact is that the National Council on Privatisation at its 3rd Meeting of 2013 held on Thursday May 9, 2013 had approved the engagement of Messrs J K Gadazama as the consultant for winding up of PHCN. Benjamin Dikki was appointed acting DG on November 27, 2013, over six months later. On provision of insurance premium for disengaged staff of PHCN, BPE described it as another fraud allegation raised by retired Director. “The provision of Group Life Insurance Policy for employees is mandatory and compulsory under section 4(1) (5&6) of the Pension Reform Act 2004. The maxim of no premium no cover does not apply here where the law explicitly provides. Every employer shall maintain Group Life Insurance Policy in favour of each employee for a minimum of three times the total annual emoluments of the employee and premium shall be paid not later than the date of commencement of the cover’’. Thus, PHCN Successor Companies as employers of labour before privatisation were mandated by law to provide these classes of insurance to its employee in compliance with the Pension Act”. As things stand, the verdict of ombudsman – National Council on Privatisation (NCP) chaired by Vice-President Yemi Osibanjo is being awaited in deciding the veracity or otherwise of allegation and denials.

Skye Bank’s Millionaire Reward Scheme moves to Aba

ba, the commercial nerve centre of Abia State came alive on Thursday, January 21 as it brings another opportunity for new winners to emerge in the ongoing Skye Bank’s “Reach for the Skye” Millionaire Reward Scheme. The “Reach for the Skye’’ millionaire reward scheme which started last year and has taken place in Ibadan, Onitsha, Benin, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and Lagos, will hold at the Ariaria

market, Aba. According to the Head, Retail Banking, Skye Bank, Nkolika Okoli, the Skye Bank Millionaire Reward Scheme would afford traders and those present at the Ariaria Market during the draw an opportunity to open accounts with the bank or upgrade from other types of accounts to the Save Plus account to qualify for the next month’s draw while winning exciting instant prizes like generators,

refrigerators, household appliances and other prizes. Okoli added that: “At Skye Bank, we cherish and value our customers and we embarked on this journey as a bank that is committed to continuous reward of customers’ loyalty. This is our seventh edition. We are stepping out of the usual dynamics of rewarding qualified savings customers monthly by also giving instant gifts to customers who open new accounts on the spot.”

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Interview

Vehicle tracking is not status symbol – Eno Essien

Ms Eno-Obong Essien is the managing director of vehicle tracking and recovery firm, Rheytrack and spokesperson of the Association of Telematics Operators of Nigeria (ATON). She said in this interview with EDWIN USOBOH, that since that ATON was lounched on December 17, vehicle tracking service providers in Nigerian have recovered over 30,000 stolen vehicles

There are records of vehicle tracking technology vanishing into thin air after been snatched by robbers from their owners? How do you guarantee the effectiveness of car tracking devices in a place like Nigeria? No vehicle tracking solution can offer a 100% guarantee that if your vehicle is stolen that it will be found, however, if you buy your tracking service from an NCC licensed tracking company that is registered with ATON then you’re certain that you’re buying from a highly professional service provider that will undertake the following: 1. Ensure that they only install highly reliable tracking devices in your vehicles using highly trained engineers. 2. That they monitor your vehicle tracking device regularly to ensure that it is reporting correctly and immediately undertake a maintenance check if there are any issues. 3. Have a 24/7 Control Room that will immediately respond to any emergency. 4. Have a nationwide presence so that they can recover your vehicle from wherever it is stolen in Nigeria.

Do you consider it a status symbol or a necessary security gadget in a vehicle? A vehicle tracking device is a necessity and not a status symbol. All vehicles can be stolen, so no vehicle is too old or too cheap to be tracked. Furthermore, a person should never reveal that their vehicle has been tracked, because the fewer the number people that know about the tracking of your vehicle the better. Why did the suppliers of this device form themselves into an association, Association of Telematics Operators of Nigeria (ATON)? First and foremost to ensure that the highest standards are upheld in the vehicle tracking and telematics industry. We also found out that a lot of people do not understand the importance of vehicle tracking; in this regard we set out to educate the general public on the benefits of tracking your vehicle. To also ensure that unlicensed tracking companies are driven out of the industry. Lastly to ensure that the public knows which licensed tracking companies to patronise because there are lot of quacks out there right now. The quacks among you, how can one identify them? Unfortunately there are quacks in every industry. Tracking companies without NCC license are quacks, and when we come across them, we report their existence to the regulatory authorities. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has listed on its website the licensed tracking companies. How can the motoring public know the right tracker to install in their vehicle? ATON certified companies. The first port of call is our website www.aton.com.ng to get the contact details of our members. Our members will then advise you on the most appropriate vehicle tracking device based on what you require from a tracking service. Since we experience network failure sometimes by the GSM service providers, is there any reason why the tracker can fail to function? Unfortunately vehicle tracking is 100 per cent dependent on the services of the GSM service providers, so if their services fail, then our tracking services are adversely affected. However network failures tend to be short lived and thankfully rarely lead to the failure to recover a stolen vehicle in an emergency as there are various ways to ascertain the location of a stolen vehicle. Other reasons that a tracking service can fail is if you have had work done on the vehicle and while the work is being done on the vehicle the mechanics inadvertently tamper with the tracking device installation. For

this reason it’s important that you have your tracking service tested periodically and immediately after any work is done on your vehicle. Do you indemnify a customer if your tracker fails? Yes. Each of our members offers some form of indemnity, and has professional liability insurance that is the only way to properly have effective service. How many vehicles in the country have the device and how many tracked stolen have been recovered from robbers? Unfortunately there are no industry wide statistics available, but we would estimate that the industry has tracked over two million vehicles and recovered over 30, 000 stolen vehicles since inception. What is your relationship with the Police, Customs, FRSC and other related bodies to make sure ATON is successful? We have excellent relationships with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Customs Service and the Federal Road Safety Commission as we’re united in the sole aim of reducing crime and enhancing road safety, and we work hand in hand with them to achieve these objectives. Starting a new business in Nigeria, especially with regards to getting take-off fund is difficult. How did you raise your initial capital? I had the challenge of raising start-up capital since I didn’t have money stashed somewhere. However, I decided to market my product first. And with the help of my mum, I got some money and was able to do the basic things such as printing complimentary cards and letterheads, as well as documenting presentable proposals for marketing. The very first company I marketed my device to patronised me. That was May & Barker, a pharmaceutical company. I was even lucky to have gotten the contract. I went to the company to submit my proposal and was told I had came late. But I guess my persistent made them give me a letter to come in for a presentation along with three other companies that submitted proposals. Fortunately for me and unfortunately for one of the other competitors, he didn’t show up when presentation was to be done. So that was how I had enough opportunity to do my presentation. I was given a letter which unanimously chose me. They gave me an LPO (Legal Process Outsourcing). It was beyond my expectation. Even though the LPO had no upfront payment, I was still motivated and had to source for funds. I spoke to some financial institutions including some microfinance banks. Fortunately for me, I was given a loan by the defunct Intercontinental Bank without any collateral. The bank took the risk on me based on my integrity and the LPO I had from a notable company. Getting a bank loan without collateral meant you had a connection somewhere? Not really, it was just me going and presenting what I had. And that has been my spirit for every client I meet. I tell them this is what I do and this is what I can do more if I have this. I don’t say things I couldn’t do. I’m sure the bank saw something in me. That was how I started off with the May & Baker job, then DN Meyer, Chemical and Allied Products, insurance companies, and many others followed. My first office was my home. And all I needed to do was to go for marketing with my kits. I had one engineer who does the installation of the device. You partner more with insurance firms. Why is that so? The insurance companies are more like our major clients. The law requires that you must insure a vehicle, so for us we are reducing a part of the risk for insurance companies. And I believe they are happy based on the testimonials that we’ve gotten from them.

Essien

How rewarding has the business been? I would say maybe the joy that I feel doing this work is a reward, and also for the fact that we’ve been on for sometime now. I absolutely love what I do. In fact when I leave my office I always want to come back. I love recovering stolen cars. With it we can pay bills, increase the number of our staff and make clients happy. The fact that I now have supportive staff that loves what they do also gives me joy.

SUNDAY

Business News SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Nigeria’s fuel crisis may linger till 2018 — Bloomberg Paul Ogbuokiri

igeria lingering fuel crisis may linger till 2018 when the 650,000 barrels a day Dangote Oil Refinery and Petrochemical Company will come on stream. Bloomberg Economists said on Thursday that Nigeria’s refineries have the installed equipment to process 445,000 barrels of crude a day, yet they operated at an average of 5 per cent of that capacity in 2015. “Financing the revamp of the refineries will be a strain on the lean finances of NNPC, yet it may not reach optimum capacity because of the age of the refineries which were built in the 70s and 80s,” they said. The President Muhammadu Buhari administration said it will not sell the aged facilities, preferring to finance their revamp, even as government revenue has been cut to less than half as a result of the fall in oil prices. The government insists there will be room for the refineries to operate alongside the private ones. Yet with the NNPC burdened by debt of about $5 billion owed to its jointventure partners, it is unlikely to compete efficiently with private refineries, according to the head of energy research at Ecobank Transnational Inc, Dolapo Oni. The target is to “keep them consistently producing at above 90 per cent of their capacity,” Emmanuel Kachikwu, Petroleum Resources Minister of State, said in an interview on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi. “Simultaneous with that, I’m also going to be announcing a programme, hopefully before the end of January, for others to come in and build new refineries.” The Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Company has the capacity to produce 55.2 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily, and will also produce other fuels as well as fertiliser and polymers, according to Devakumar Edwin, chief executive officer of the Dangote Group. “It’s a very large refinery. We can produce the entire fuel requirements of the country,” he said. On completion, the refinery would be the fifth-biggest in the world after plants in Venezuela, South Korea and India, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It would also be the world’s largest single-train refinery, Dangote told some reporters at the construction site in Lagos on January 10. “From Nigeria all the way down the coast to Senegal and all the countries in between, there’s almost no functional refinery except the one in Cote d’Ivoire. Dangote is going to be able to plug that market,” he said. The refinery in Cote d’Ivoire has the capacity to process 65,000 barrels of crude daily, according to the website of the company, Societe Ivoirienne de Raffinage. Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele, during a visit to the site of the plant on last Sunday, said the refinery could earn foreign income of $6 billion a year, helping ease exchange-

rate pressures. He pledged to provide the Dangote Group the assistance it required to secure foreign exchange to complete the plant estimated to cost about $14 billion. While Nigeria has more than 30 licenses issued for the building of pri-

vately owned refineries, Dangote is the first to start construction. If Dangote is successful “it means that Nigeria can process more than its local fuel needs and also process on behalf of others so that we may start exporting refined products

rather than exporting crude,” said Bismarck Rewane, chief executive officer of Lagos-based business advisory Financial Derivatives Co. Nigeria uses about 35 million liters of petrol per day, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

L-R: Minister of Transportation, Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi; Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company, Mr. Bismack Rewane and Convener/ Founder, Business Eye Magazine, Mrs. Ibim Sementari, during the Magazine’s Round Table Discussion on Nigerian Economy in 2016 in Lagos…recently PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

NCAM fabricates small scale farm implements

Stanley Ihedigbo ood news came from the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM), last week as the agency announced that it had made significant progress in fabricating various farms tolls as a way of developing science-based solutions to the challenges faced by small scale farmers. The Acting Executive Director, NCAM, Engr. (Dr.) Muyideen Kasali, said at the flag-off of the second phase of agricultural equipment hiring enterprise programme in Ilorin on Tuesday that the centre has over the years recorded very modest achievements in the area of making available small scale equipment to the farmers in Nigeria. He said, NCAM has carried research and development that have led to the design and development of several simple low technologies cutting across the value chains of roots and tubers, grains and cereals, fruits and vegetable, oil seed and fibres. He explained that NCAM Triketor, which was the first made in Nigeria tractor capable of carrying out the operations of the conventional tractor, but on a smaller scale. According to him, the Triketor tractor is capital intensive, but he is confident that the machine would go a long way in assisting the small and medium scale farmers in their land preparation operations. Speaking at the event, the Minister of

Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, said it would be unthinkable and counterproductive, to think of developing agriculture in Nigeria by continuing to distribute hoes, machetes, axes and ordinary and low yielding seeds to farmers. He said the vision of Buhari Administration is to aggressively commercialise and mechanise Nigeria’s agriculture by introducing about 2,000 units of tractors and various kinds of harvesting and processing equipment to mechanise the agricultural practice in Nigeria every year, while also building Nigeria’s local content and capacity to sustain and advance mechanisation in line with international best practice. The minister said that agriculture in general and farming in particular has, regrettably been seen to be synonymous with poverty as it is dominantly practised in the rural areas. According to him, to bring about the needed change, energy must be focused on developing and creating enabling environment for the rural areas to grow. He revealed that the total number of tractors in the country is estimated at about 35,000, and over 50 per cent of which have broken down due to the nature of our farm lands, lack of sustainable products’ after sales service and poor maintenance culture. The minister noted that the low level of mechanisation limits the ability of Nigeria farmers to expand cultivatable areas, perform timely farm operations and achieve economies of scale in in-

creasing food production. “Europe today is over-mechanised, USA is completely mechanised. The numbers of tractors per 1,000 hectares are as follows: Japan has 461; Italy, 211.1; France, 68.5. In India, a small state called Punjab which is the “Granary of India” (India’s bread-basket), has over 1,000,000 tractors, Egypt 31 tractors/1,000ha and in other African countries, including Nigeria, only five per cent of farm labour is done using tractor. “Although Nigeria, for a very long time, has not conducted a valid inventory of our tractor density, there may be less than five tractors to 1,000 hectares. While the larger portion of the arable land for agricultural production lies here in Africa, farming is still done with rudimentary equipment, thus limiting land and labour productivity, discouraging our young people,” he said. He stated that this administration would endeavour to end unbridled importation of all kinds of food items, which has led to the growing youth unemployment, impoverishing our farmers and neglect of the existing potential in the agricultural sector. “With our natural resource assets, we can ensure food self-sufficiency. This renewed commitment informs the decision of this administration to sustain, deepen and widen the Private Sector-driven Agricultural Mechanisation Framework (PSDAMF) strategies in partnership with local fabricators and manufacturer representatives,” he said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Business News

Clinical Consultant pharmacist

What is alcohol? (3)

EMMANUEL A.NWANKWO agmerendis@yahoo.com

08148877648 (SMS only) WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF ALCOHOL ABUSE 1. Memory loss when the drinker can’t remember or recall what is happening around him/ her and that can lead to brain damage. This is due to the blood alcohol level being too high in the body; because of the alcoholics crave for more and more alcohol to enable him function. (2) To feel better mood; drinking alcohol to put you in mood. The problem is that the feeling better mood is for a short term. This will on the long run create depression and anxiety. People have the right to know that alcohol is not a problem solver and cannot be a solution to your problem. (3) When you have tried and failed to stop drinking. It is not very easy to quit a habit. Some people tried on several occasions to step drinking but it is more difficult because they all are already addicted and have physical dependency, meaning their body is now relying on alcohol. Attempts to stop or quit makes them sick and they start having nausea, tremors and nervousness and to avoid all these, they continue to drink even more. (4) Peer pressure; When one drinks to fit in or be comfortable with friends both new friend/ old friend, so you drink to belong. This will lead you to drink more and more. (5) Damaged face skin: some physical sign of alcoholism is broken skin capillaries on the face. This damages the small blood vessels that carry blood to the body so there can be noticed changes in the face appear-

ance and your face starts undergoing physical changes. (6) Trembling hands, you start experiencing shaking in the hands, this is because of the damaged nerves in your body due to excessive alcohol. (7) Having problems with family members; you start to have constant communication problems with members of your family. You tend to argue with family and friends when they confront you with your drinking problems like neglecting basic Hygiene, neglecting food and unusual behaviors. Eventually you have a broken family. (8) Drinking alone in secret. Eventually everybody will know about it. You would start lying about it and cannot talk truthfully about alcohol. (9) You develop restlessness, unable to fall asleep and you may start vomiting, because you are nauseated, when you want to stop or when you temporary stop drinking you feel restless because you have developed physical dependency and must need experienced support system to enable you quit the habit. (10) Drinking in the morning: When you are drinking in the morning, you definitely know that you have problems with alcohol. You don’t have any reason to drink in the morning if you are not an addict. When you drink excessively every day or several times in a week, you have a behavioral problem and you may be out of control. (11) You are constantly broke (you waste your money). It makes you make a fool of yourself. The people around you start hearing that “whiskey make you Rowdy Rum Chills You up and Tequila makes you dance” these are claims that people make about your drinking. The fact is that the effects of alcohol are similar. The difference depends on the rate it is drunk, the amount that is drunken

spirit 40% ABV (alcohol by volume). Spirit is more rapidly absorbed into the blood stream and you get a rapid increase in your blood stream. The reasons why people drink alcohol are very important, because those reasons will give us an insight into how alcoholism begins and also help us to find solutions towards becoming sober, recover and make changes in our lifestyle to continue to become sober. HOW CAN YOU RECOVER FROM DRINKING / HOW CAN WE STOP DRINKING? The answer is H.A.L.T( Halt) Halt is a tool that we enable you to remember yourself care. What is the meaning of Halt? Hungry – H Angry – A Lonely – L Tired – T This strategy Halt may sound and seem very simple but that is where most Alcoholics or people that drink excessively find it difficult to quit and they tend to relapse. The trick about Halt is that it actually helps you to resist Alcohol. Hungry: To an Alcoholic or somebody that drinks too much. Hungry means the need to drink and get high, on Alcohol or other drugs. This hunger for alcohol eventually becomes habitual overtime, that he does not remember the actual hunger pain. The addict needed to eat very well instead of drinking. Angry: To an addict, feeling angry means that something must be avoided and drinking to him now is the solution. Lonely: As you get deeper into alcohol, you lose friends and family, the only thing you cherish is to get even higher. You should learn how to identify these feelings and take steps to prevent or alleviate them by talking and meeting with your loved ones. •To be continued

In pursuit of a successful 2016 (2) sideways or backwards. Let’s examine both. Looking sideways could mean allowing distractions from one’s environment. Also, when one begins to compare himself with others, he is Victor Okwudiri looking sideways. I say so because, if one does not look sideways, he will not 08037674300 (SMS only) see anybody to compare himself with. ast week, we started discussing Friend, never compete with anyone. We open secrets of a successful 2016. were all created differently, with differWe discussed the following ent assignments. If you must compete, points: compete with yourself. What I mean 1. Gratitude - GRATITUDE is an by competing with yourself is that you ATTITUDE that helps us to attain and should strive to exhaust the potentials maintain a high ALTITUDE in life. God deposited in you. If you compete 2. DISCIPLINE - In the school of with some other person, you may ‘out success, discipline is a non-elective shine’ the person but still under-utilise course with a full credit load, such that your potentials. That is not success. a failure in discipline can result in carryAs regards distraction by looking overs in life. backwards, there are two dimensions 3. PASSION - Your PASSION will deto it, viz: liver your PORTION into your hands. a) past failures; and Let’s discuss some more. b) past achievements. 4. FOCUS Dwelling on past failures can demorFocus is simply facing your target. alise you. The only good thing about “Your FOCUS determines your LOa MISTAKE is the ‘TAKE’. So, TAKE CUS.” I heard that from Rev. (Dr.) Uma the lesson you MISSed and move on. Ukpai. What that means is that what Dwelling on the mistake can only result you are aiming at determines where in stagnation or retrogression. you stand. Interestingly, however, it is not No one drives well fixing his gaze at only past failures that can constitute the rear mirror or side mirror. Anyone a setback to someone. Past achievewho drives looking back is an accident ments can. The risky thing about past bound to occur. achievements is that they can induce One could loose focus by looking complacency, and complacency pushes

Success Nuggets

one to the relegation zone (irrelevance). Friend, irrelevance sets in when one does not improve with the times. I believe that those among the first set of persons to buy desktop computers must have felt good. However, that is like nothing today, with the invention of laptops and some sophisticated touch and voice sensitive tablets. Now, imagine what it will look like if a business man refuses to upgrade technologically, holding on to his desktop. Let’s say, he has a meeting, where he would need a computer. Imagine him carrying his desktop computer (the monitor and CPU) and electric power source to the venue of the meeting. That will be ridiculous. That is what complacency can do. Friend, I recommend to you the creed of a notable lawyer (in his time) and an accomplished prolific author, by name Apostle Paul, which he articulated in the following words: “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” You will succeed. REFERENCE: Philippians 3:13-14 Please, follow me on Twitter @VictorOkwudiri

BRIEFS

Naira in free-fall, sells N310 at parallel market

he Nigerian currency on Thursday depreciated further at the parallel market, following implementation of the Central Bank of Nigeria stoppage of allocation of foreign exchange to the Bureau De-Change. The CBN had earlier reviewed downward the N150, 000 dollars offered weekly to BDCs to 10,000 dollars, while the number of licensed operators was reduced to about 2,879 from 4,000. At the close of trading late Thursday afternoon, the naira depreciated continued the free fall that started since the announcement on Monday. The naira’s deep swing was also visible against other international currencies as one pound sterling and one euro were exchanged at N500 and N350 respectively. The official exchange rate across the commercial banks remains at N197 to the dollar. Most of the parallel market operators attributed the situation of the foreign exchange to the CBN’s policy review and limited earnings from crude oil. A currency dealer in Lagos, Salisu Ahmad, said the naira depreciation followed the immediate enforcement of the CBN’s policy announced by the apex bank on Monday.

GTBank to reward mobile banking customers

uaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) has launched the #GTBankMobileWin100k competition to reward its mobile banking customers by availing them a chance to win N100, 000 weekly in the mBank January rewards. The competition will run throughout the month of January 2016 and 10 lucky customers will win N100,000 weekly during the period. To participate in the competition, customers are required to perform two banking transactions weekly on the GTBank Mobile App, such transactions include funds transfers, airtime purchases, bills payments and purchases on the SME MarketHub. Multiple entries are allowed and winners will be notified by telephone or email. Commenting on the launch, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of GTBank, Mr. Segun Agbaje, said: “Understanding that customers are always on the go; mobile banking puts us in the palm of our customers and provides a unique opportunity to offer quick and more efficient ways of providing banking services. As a bank, we remain firm on our objective to deliver value adding services that are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our ever-growing customer base by leveraging technology to make banking more convenient for all our customers.”

Binji is acting MD NAIC

r. Bashir Binji has been appointed as the Acting Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC). According to statement by the agency, Binji will replace the former managing director of the Corporation, Mr. Bode Opadekun who had since resigned his appointment. Binji who hails from Sokoto State was until his appointment the Executive Director (Operations) of the Corporation. He is a graduate of Usman Danfodio University Sokoto with Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Management Studies. He is an associate of Chartered Insurance Institute of London and also has an MBA degree from Ahmadu Bello Univeristy Zaria and Diploma in Insurance with Distinction from the famous West African Insurance Institute Banjul, The Gambia. Binji has attended many courses both locally and internationally. He holds an Advance Diploma in Insurance, London, and has over 18 years cognate experience in Binji the insurance industry.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Losing streak sustained T

he Nigerian Stock Exchange All Share index (NSEASI) plummeted by 13.00% WoW, following five consecutive trading days of losses which positioned the index level at 23,514 points. The week’s loss further stretched the market’s Year-to-Date return to -17.90%. Volume and Value of transaction appreciated substantially by 102% and 219% WoW accordingly. Market breadth pegged at 0.10x as only six (6) stocks appreciated in the week, while fifty-nine (59) stocks waned in share value. The gainers’ chart was championed by ASHAKACEM, CUSTODYIN and HONYFLOUR, recording the week’s highest returns of 10.42%, 4.68% and 4.05% in the same order. The laggards table featured, OANDO, UNITYBNK and ZENITHBANK with 31.03%, 27.06% and 26.82% losses respectively. During the week, shareholders of VITAFOAM and VONO met to conclude discussion on the proposed merger of the two companies and the modus operandi going forward. Following the release of the two companies FY2015 performance scorecards, VITAFOAM proposed a dividend of NGN0.25, with closure and payment dates of 19th February and 14th March 2016. Given investors’ apathy towards the equities market, coupled with the dearth of positive news inflows amidst unfavourable economic fundamentals, we do not anticipate a quick revamp in market performance in the near term. However, we expect some investors to take position in fundamentally justified stocks trading below their intrinsic value in order to average down losses on their portfolios. In this report, we review events in the economy, laying emphasis on the performances of different segments of the financial market, while presenting our expectations for the coming week. Fixed Income: Naira returns +1.05% YtD at the Interbank Market liquidity remained significant, keeping NIBOR and money market rates pressured for most of the week. However, there was a decline in liquidity in the course of the week due to a combination of DMBs depositing funds for the CBN’s FX intervention, and the OMO auction held during the week. Average NIBOR advanced by 0.10% WoW to settle at 7.49%, as the CALL (-0.21%) and 1M (-0.05%) tenor rates declined weekon-week, while the 3M (+0.32%) and 6M (+0.34%) tenor rates advanced. Also, money market rates fell by 33 basis points, with the OBB and OVN rates settling at 0.88% and 1.21% accordingly. Yields on the Treasury bills decreased by 0.38% on the average, as significant levels of liquidity buoyed demand levels. The average yield settled at 5.89% across all instruments at the close of the week. Activities in the bond market remained tempered, as the average offer yield advanced by 0.72% WoW across instruments, to close at 11.20% and 11.48% for the Benchmark and Off-the-run bonds respectively. The value of the domestic currency declined consistently for most of the week at the interbank market, but rallied on the last day of the week to push the mid-price to NGN197.23/USD (+1.05% YtD). Also, the Central Bank of Nigeria decided to lift the ban on US Dollar deposits by DMB customers, while also taking the decision to halt Dollar sales to BDC. This was partly responsible for the performance of the currency at the parallel market, where the currency fell to a new low of NGN290.00/ USD. Agric. Sector: Negative sentiments

...… as NSEASI pares by 13.00% WoW

permeate sector Measured by the MERI-AGRI index, the Agric. sector closed the week in the negative territory, paring by 5.05% WtD. However, with a 3.53% Year-to-Date return, the sector remains the only sector with a positive showing on a YtD basis. LIVESTOCK and OKOMUOIL waned by 9.70% and 9.96% to settle at NGN1.21 and NGN32.64 respectively, while ELLAHLAKES, FTNCOCOA and PRESCO stayed flat. The poor showing of the sector reflects the impact of the bearish sentiments that rocked the overall equities market over the week. We advise discerning investors to consider stock fundamentals in decision making at this time. Banking Sector: New Year brings no respite as index plunges 22% The New Year has brought no respite for the worst performing sector of 2015, as the banking sector declined by 22.03%, to bring the YtD return to -26.32%. There was one (1) gainer and fourteen (14) decliners to peg the sector’s breadth at 0.07x. The banking sector, much like the market in general, has been under significant pressure as consternation rises due to expectations that there may be a significant decision take regarding the naira at the next MPC meeting. Consequently, some of the

sector’s stocks are currently trading near their 5-year lows. While we acknowledge that the sector’s returns may probably remain depressed until after the MPC decision, we advise investors to look past the current state of the market and invest in the sector’s fundamentally justified equities. Consumer Goods: Market prices dive across board Mirroring the somber mood of the general market, all the counters within the Consumer Goods sector have recorded negative Year-to-Date performances, save for VONO which has returned 13.58% YtD. Consequently, measured by the NSEFBT10 index, the sector’s WoW and YtD returns pegged at -9.05% and -18.06% accordingly. The week’s gainers chart featured HONYFLOUR and AGLEVENT which recorded respective gains of 4.05% and 3.39% WoW. Conversely, CADBURY, UACN, NASCON, PZ, NB, and 7UP had the highest value declines, with respective WoW losses of 18.40%, 16.83%, 14.00%, 13.78%, 11.51% and 10.14%. During the week, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc. released its FY2015 performance scorecard, showing 2.83% YoY increase in turnover, while Earnings-After-Taxes declined by 42.83% YoY. The company proposed a dividend of NGN0.25, with closure and payment dates of 19th February and 14th March

2016. Also, Vono Products Plc’s scorecard showed a decline in turnover and earnings of 10.86% and 753.26% YoY accordingly. We do not anticipate a relief from this apathy in the near future, given our outlook for the general market, and the Consumer goods sector. However, we note that position taking opportunities exist for investors with long term horizon, though we note the inherent risk given current market apathy. Health Care: Sombre mood persists There was a spillover of the weak mood on sector stocks from the prior year, as the sector returned -9.47% Week-to-Date to peg the Year-to-Date return at -20.28%. Three stocks shed prices, while other counters traded flat in the week. The decliners’ chart was led by GLAXOSMITH which pared by 9.73% WoW to NGN 27.08, trailed by MAYBAKER and NEIMETH with price declines of 9.52% and 3.37% WoW to peg prices at NGN0.95 and NGN0.86 accordingly. Other counters in the sector traded flat. The persistent weak sentiment on the sector stocks were in line with the general bearish market mood. As such, we advise value seeking investors to trade only on fundamentally justified stocks capable of delivering value in the event of a market rebound. Industrial Goods: Heavyweights drag sector returns The industrial goods sector, at the end of the week, plummeted by 16.21% as measured by our Meri-Industrial index. Market breadth (0.14x) for the week skewed towards the seven (7) laggards, as against a sole advancer. ASHAKACEM was the week’s only gainer, appreciating by 10.42% to close at NGN26.50. On the flip side, WAPCO suffered the heaviest decline during the week, as it plunged by 17.38% to close at NGN86.75. The ticker was followed closely by DANGCEM which shed 16.87% at the end of the week. CUTIX, CCNN, BERGER, PORTPAINT and CAP returned -8.23%, -4.95%, -4.76%, -0.25% and -0.03% accordingly to make up the losers’ list. In line with the bearish trend of the overall equities market, stocks in the industrial goods sector have remained pressured by the negative sentiments amongst investors. On this note, we reiterate our cautious trading advice, particularly for the early parts of the year. Insurance Sector: CUSTODYINS the sole survivor In line with the bearish sentiment that permeated the general market in the week, the NSEINS10 Index tumbled by 4.21% WoW, positioning the sector’s YtD return at -5.20%. There were five (5) losers and one (1) gainer to peg the sector’s breadth at 0.20x. CONTINSURE recorded the highest loss in the week, having pared by 14.56% WoW to close at NGN0.88. The counter was closely followed by LAWUNION (-12.33%), AIICO (-10.87%), NEM (-10.29%) and MANSARD (-4.85%). CUSTODYINS on the other hand, advanced by 4.68% WoW, to settle at its year high price of NGN4.25. Goldlink Insurance Plc. released its H1:2015 financial scorecard during the week. Gross premium Earned (GPE) and Profit after Taxes (PAT) respectively waned by 40.52% and 404.98% YoY to NGN1.17bn and -NGN0.73bn accordingly. We expect the sector’s performance to remain largely dependent on investors’ sentiments toward the equities market in the near term. Also, due to the dearth of positive news inflow to steer investors’ appetite, we anticipate the general market and the insurance sector stocks performances will remain pressured in the near term.

SUNDAY

53 53

Sport SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016

CHAN

Oliseh in baptism of fire in Rwanda p.54

Football

Obafemi: I won’t close door on second return to EPL p.55

Tennis

Tough draw for Serena at Australian Open p.55

Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu daposotu@yahoo.com

Yusuf Ali: It’s too late for Nigeria to win gold at Rio Nigerian Olympian and all-time record holder in the Long Jump, Yusuf Alli, has said that with six months to the Rio Olympics 2016, it is too late for Team Nigeria athletes to win gold at the world biggest sports showpiece. He told DAPO SOTUMINU The last time Nigeria won gold at the Olympics was at the Atlanta 96 Games that was 19 years ago. Aside from the conversion of silver medal to gold at the Sydney Games, do you think Team Nigeria has any chance of winning gold at the Rio Olympic Games in June? For me I believe strongly that it is too late for any Nigerian athlete to win gold at the Rio Olympics. In the first place for athletes that would win medals at the Olympics in the next six months, they should have been winning in major competitions across the world as a prelude to the biggest game. But this is not so for Team Nigeria athletes, who from all indications are not doing well enough to blaze the trail in Brazil. At the moment, we have 21 Nigerian athletes already qualified for the 2016 Olympics, this is a sign of good things to come. But this does not translate into medals, they still have to work hard for the medals. And with the way and tempo the athletes are going they may have to wait until the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to win the desired medals. I cannot beat my chest to say that Nigeria would win gold at the Rio Olympics but I can assure everybody that the gold and other colours of medals will come at the 2020 Games. The Team Great Britain won just one gold medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, but by the time of the 2012 Olympics, which they hosted in London, they increased their gold medals haul to 29. With what we have today Nigeria is bound to increase the number of gold medals won by the country at the 2020 Olympics. To show that, the National Sports Commission and the Sports Ministry are not sure of Team Nigeria winning gold at the Rio Olympics, the Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung, has started that campaign for the country to win gold at the 2020 Olympics. This is the first time a Sports Minister is making projection for the future and not an apostle of fire brigade. Surprisingly, he is not talking about

the Rio 2016 Olympics in Brazil, but his focus is on the 2020 Olympics. Even as the Minister believes that Nigeria will come good at the Tokyo Games, it takes a great deal of hard work. Do you think we have any chances of winning medals in the long jump in the next four year? Yes, we have the chance to win in the long jump with someone like Blessing Okagbare, she has the better chance to win Olympic medal in the jumps not at the Rio Olympics but at the 2020 Olympics better than in the sprints which Nigerians are always hopeful that she would perform well. Even at the Rio 2016 Olympics in Brazil, if Blessing concentrates in the long jump we are sure to have a medal, not gold then consolidates in 2020 with a greater medal. Winning medals in our 4x100metres women’s event is as sure as death at the Rio Olympics and it would get better at the 2020 Olympics. At the Beijing World Championship in China, it was a big disappointment for Nigerians as the country’s athletes failed to win any medal. What happened? It was unfortunate that we didn’t win any medal in Beijing despite going to the championship with so much hope. Blessing Okagbare was rated among the top athletes that would pick medals in the 200 metres, but after the 100mtres race where she failed, she couldn’t get out

I cannot beat my chest to say that Nigeria would win gold at the Rio Olympics but I can assure everybody that the gold and other colours of medals will come at the 2020 Games

of the disappointment a situation which forced her to pull out of the 200metres final. Now her 100metres recovery rate is getting better as her coach in the United States has started a special training to better her time in the 200metres. That is why in Moscow at the Golden League she was able to win a medal after failing in Beijing. Okagbare badly needs a psychologist to make her an Olympic sprint champion. She needs somebody to psyche her up during major championships. She must be worked on by a good psychologist. Your African record of 8.27 metres in the men’s long jump is still unbroken. Is it that we don’t have highly rated long jumpers who could erase this record after such a long time? I disagree totally it is not about my record staying so long without being broken in Africa. In my active years, I was rated number four in the world behind three Americans. I had ‘King’s Carl Lewis, Michael Powell and one other American Larry Mann. When you remove t h e

Americans I was number one in the world. The Cubans, Germans, the Jamaicans and other Europeans all behind me. Measuring me with other African and Nigerian jumpers is very wrong, I was way ahead of African jumpers, its only three American who were better me, that was why I was ranked number four in the world. My record remains unbroken simply because of the hard work I put into the sports in my active years. If I tell you what I did then to achieve what has become a huge task for anybody in Nigeria and Africa to equal you won’t believe it. My sprint skills where I clocked 10.12 seconds in the 100metres helped me a great deal to propel me longer than other opponents. If I run 10.12 seconds today I will win the Nigerian Trials. Only people like Chidi Imoh and Innocent Egbunike running 10.00 seconds in the 100metres could beat me then. My long jump record will remain unbroken for a very long time, because 0.27metres is a very long effort.

SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport

4TH AFRICAN NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP:

Oliseh in baptism of fire in Rwanda

Dapo Sotuminu

s from Monday, the Super Eagles chief coach, Sunday Oliseh would face his baptism of fire as Nigeria’s national team handler when the home-based Eagles confront their opponent from Niger Republic in a tough game in the second Group C match of the African Nations Championship. This would be the first time Oliseh would taking charge fully of the home-based team in a competition. The first time the home-based team played a competitive game, Oliseh was away in Belgium on medical ground but only arrived in Nigeria hours before the game, so the team was prepared by the assistant coaches. The chief coach’s impact was not on the team. In Rwanda, just as it was for the Eagles former chief coach Stephen Keshi whose prowess as a football coach was put to test at the last edition of the competition played in South Africa, Sunday Oliseh would face his real test as all his coaching strategies would

Group A P 1 Rwanda 0 2 Gabon 0 3 Morocco 0 4 Cote d’Ivoire 0 Group B P 1 RD Congo 0 2 Angola 0 3 Cameroon 0 4 Ethiopia 0 Group C P 1 Tunisia 0 2 Nigeria 0 3 Niger 0 4 Guinea 0 Group D P 1 Zimbabwe 0 2 Mali 0 3 Uganda 0 4 Zambia 0

be put to test more so with basically home-based stars, with no magic from foreign-based stars. All the theories the Eagles’ chief coach have propounded on attacking and defensive play during his analyses as a television pundit during top international competitions will be practicalised in Rwanda. Nigeria’s first game will be against Niger Republic at 4:45pm shortly after the first Group C game between Tunisia and Guinea which has been scheduled for 15:00. The Home-based Eagles will battle against the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia on January 22 in what has been tagged the toughest encounter in Group C in their second match, kick off time is 1:15pm, while the third match will hold on January 26 against Guinea. This is Nigeria’s second appearance in the competition which is in its fourth edition, expectations are very high as Nigerians expect the team to win this edition

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of the biennial tournament after the Keshi-led team won the third place title in South Africa two years ago. It is believed that, Nigeria has the best home-based players on the continent. Compared to the team that played in South Africa where there were complaints that they were not the true representation of the Nigerian league, the current CHAN Eagles team players are believed to be the best players to fly the flag proudly for the ever-growing Nigerian league. There is the confidence that Nigeria will parade some of the stars of the past season - Tunde Adeniji and Chisom Chikatara scored between them 29 goals in the last campaign, defenders Chima Akas, Austin Oboroakpo and Orji Kalu were consistent at their clubs, while Ifeanyi Matthew, Paul Onobi, Ezekiel Bassey and Bature Yaro were the driving forces for their respective teams.

Oliseh has had long enough time to pass down his ideas and philosophy to these players right from when he was named the country’s coach in July 2015 amid high expectations. Several of these players have also worked with him in the full international squad. He also had two weeks to train the team in South Africa during which time they played two warm-up matches against teams who will also be at the CHAN Angola and Cote d’Ivoire. What he is therefore able to produce in Rwanda will most certainly go a long in determining the fortunes of the country in the coming months with crucial AFCON and 2018 World Cup qualifiers fast approaching. He said at the weekend: “Everyone will be out to fight us in Rwanda. But we’re on track, the boys are in high spirit and physically okay.” Good results in

Foreign scouts everywhere as CHAN hots-up

he fourth edition of the CHAN tournament for players based on the continent and plying their trade in their national championship/league kicked off yesterday with foreign scouts scampering to get the best talents for clubs in Europe and other parts of the world especially as the January transfer window is still open for transactions to be made. The foreign scouts are currently at their busiest in Rwanda and this will continue until February 7 when the tournament’s final is played. From the actions which started yesterday at high standard there are lots of talents to choose from with a total of 16 qualified nations which include top football playing nations like Angola, Morocco, DRC, Nigeria, Cote d ‘Ivoire, Tunisia, Cameroon, Zambia, Mali, and Guinea parading stars with raw talents who are bent on getting contracts in foreign clubs. The host Rwanda has declared that: “We are fully ready to host this high-level competition,” said Vincent Nzamwita, president of the Rwanda Football Federation, which hosts the tournament from January 16 to February 7, adding that, it is “a great honour.” The Rwandan government has spent 16 billion Rwandan francs ($21.4 million) on infrastructure and organisational costs for CHAN 2016, the fourth edition of the competition since 2009.

History of the CHAN

his competition, of which the first edition took place in Cote d ‘Ivoire in 2009, is characteristically African. It is contested among national club sides and exclusively brings together players that play in their national championships. Players who are playing abroad, in or out of the continent, are not eligible to take part in the tournament. From eight participants during its first edition, it moved directly to 16 at its 2nd edition, played in Sudan in 2011. Since 2014, at its 3rd edition in South Africa, the competition is recognised by FIFA, which has added it to the competitions that are considered when setting up FIFA classification. TODAY’S MATCHES, 17 January 2016 RD Congo Vs. Ethiopia 15:00 Angola Vs. Cameroon 18:00 NIGERIA’S MATCHES Monday, 18 January 2016 Tunisia Vs. Guinea 15:00 Nigeria Vs. Niger 18:00 22 January 2016 (Group C) Tunisia Vs. Nigeria 15:00 (Group C) Niger Vs Guinea 18:00 26 January 2016 (Group C) Guinea Vs Nigeria 16:00 (Group C) Niger Vs. Tunisia 16:00

Rwanda will lift the confidence of the players as well as fans leading up to these two big matches. The results could also improve the country’s FIFA ranking going into the draw for the World Cup qualifiers in June. Already, the likes of Chima Akas, Oboroakpo, Usman Mohammed, Ezekiel Bassey, Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Bature Yaro have all played at full international level in the main Eagles squad and it is expected that several other players on this CHAN squad will also get their chances with the Super Eagles on the strength of what they show in Rwanda. The CHAN Eagles are the foundation on which Oliseh can rebuild the Eagles and so the results in Rwanda are very crucial for both the country and the young coach since he is bent on retiring the old superstars to give way for young promising ones which he said he want to use to build a future national team. Cote d ‘Ivoire and Sudan have played host in previous tournaments since 2009 before the last edition at South Africa.

Super Eagle coach, Oliseh

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY JANUARY 17, 2016

Ighalo praises God for EPL achievements

ensational Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo, who is in the best form of his life has given praises to God for making him win yet another EPL award in the month of December. Ighalo who was on Friday named as the English Premier League Player of the Month for December 2015 following a prolific month during which he scored in six successive games, said yesterday on his facebook page that he prayed fervently for God to give him the December award after he won the award for November and he is grateful to the almighty for answering his prayers. The Nigerian striker is currently one of the hottest properties in English football at the moment, he is the second highest scorer in the Premier league with 14 goals. He had a phenomenal December during which he gave defences a torrid time, finding the back of the net in every game he played during the month. The 26-year-old star scored five times during December, including a double against Liverpool as his humble Watford thrashed the EPL giant club 3-0 at Vicarage Road. Watford is currently 10th on the table with 29 points from 21 games and their next league match is against Swansea at the Liberty Stadium on Monday

Ighalo

Onobi: Eagles Team B will do well at CHAN

uper Eagles Team B midfielder, Paul Onobi, has said that the team would give their best in Rwanda and hopes the trophy comes to Nigeria at the end of the competition. He noted that with the team’s pre-tournament top form and high spirit of the players in camp, he believe the CHAN Eagles is ready defeat all opponents in the competition. “I am very sure that impossible is nothing because we have a very good team. We do not fear any team for the CHAN. Nigerians should have faith in us and keep praying for us too.” For the competition for players plying their trade on the African continent, the Eagles Team B is counting on the experience of Ikechukwu Ibenegbu, who plays for Warri Wolves and has been one of the star performers during the team’s build-up to the tournament. The 29-year-old’s slight frame could be deceptive because he makes up for that with an abundance of energy and he is also a good passer of the ball as well as chipping in with a few of his own

Sport / News

Obafemi: I won’t close door on second return to EPL Dapo Sotuminu

uper Eagles of Nigeria returnee striker, Obafemi Martins, has disclosed that, he would never shut the door against a possible return to the English Premier League from where he moved to the Major League Soccer in the United States, as the EPL was where he played his best football as a professional. Martins whose brilliant form in the US earned him a recall to the Eagles squad after more than two years’ absence has scored 43

goals in 84 appearances for Seattle Sounders since joining the MLS side in March 2013. At the moment, Martins revealed that top managers of English Premier League club Aston Villa has opened negotiations with his MLS club and his manager is already speaking to them for a possible return to the EPL. He noted that if everything s a i l s through h e would

Martins

n o t hesitate to make a return to England. The interest by English clubs is ining by the Bour-

creasday as nemouth, Newcastle, and Sunderland have all set their drag nets to grab the Nigerian star despite his age. Martins said: “I love the

English Premier League and you never know what can happen in football. I don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow but I will never say no to a move when it comes to going back to England.” He added that When he left Newcastle, he never forgot all about England and when the chance to return with Birmingham City on loan came, he never failed to take it. People still talk about my return to the club everywhere I go. Birmingham City fans truly appreciate my contribution there,” he said.

Stephen Keshi`s wife buried in Benin

ife of former Super Eagles chief coach, Mrs. Kate Keshi, who died in December 2015 of cancer in in the United States of America, has been buried in Benin City. She was survived by her husband and five children. Frank Ilaboya, the Chairman of the Edo State Football Association, who represented the Nigeria Football Federation described Keshi’s wife’s death as “a loss to

the football community in Nigeria.” Ilaboya made the remark on Friday in Benin at the burial of the late Mrs. Keshi. He prayed God to grant Stephen Keshi and the family the strength to bear the loss. “We pray God to strengthen Coach Keshi to move on with his career,” he said. In his tribute, former Super Eagles Head Coach, Shuaibu Amodu, described the deceased

as “a sister, friend and mother.” Amodu said that the late Kate always called to encourage him and Stephen when they had challenges during their days in the national team. Keshi described his late wife as “a unique person every man would love to have.” He thanked Nigerians for the love, sympathy and prayers for the family when his wife passed on.

Host Rwanda beat Elephants in CHAN opener

solitary goal by Bayisenge Emery ensured Rwanda defeated Cote d’Ivoire 1-0 during their Group A 2016 CAF African Nations Championship opening match at Stade Amahoro in Kigali on Saturday afternoon. Johnny McKinstry’s men started like a house on fire, with his charges taking the game to the Ivorians and the Rwandans fully behind them. However, the match was dominated by fouls in the middle of the park, with Rwanda fouling Koffi Boua, but six minutes later the hosts delivered a pin-point

cross from the right only for goalkeeper Ali Sangare to collect easily. In a follow-up attempt, Innocent Habyarimana unleashed a grass-cutting shot in the 15th minute which couldn’t give keeper Sangare any troubles as it went wide. A minute later, Emery netted from a fine free kick, beating Sangare in the 16th minute to hand the hosts the lead, and the culprit Koffi Mercelin went into the referee’s book for a foul. Michel Dussuyer’s side kept probing despite Amavubi’s supe-

riority in the middle of the park, however, Boua’s cross failed to meet the intended target and it sailed across the face of goal in the 22nd minute. With the match heading to the interval, the Elephants’ Boua couldn’t connect with the ball following a great run behind the defence and it was 1-0 at the interval. In the 80th minute Dussuyer’s men kept the hosts under pressure and Guiza was unfortunate as he hit the woodwork with the keeper Ndayishimiye left stranded and beaten hands down.

Tough draw for Serena at Australian Open

Serena

fter a four-month break from the professional circuit, Serena Williams plans to make her return at the Australian Open this month, but the road to another Grand Slam title might not be easy. Williams, who comes into the tournament seeded No. 1, will face world No. 35 Camila Giorgi, who not unlike Roberta Vinci the woman who famously ousted Williams from the U.S. Open

last year - is an Italian with a big swing. Williams has faced off against Giorgi twice, winning both times. The first time, in 2013 at the Charleston Open, proved easier. Williams won in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3. The second time, last year at a Fed Cup match in Italy, was a bit more difficult. Giorgi put up a fight in the first set, forcing a tie breaker that Williams eventually won to go 7-6, 6-2.

Bolt

Bolt shocked but against wiping records

ix-time Olympic champion, Usain Bolt, says he’s shocked and let down by the scandalhit IAAF but is against resetting athletics world records. The second installment of a World Anti-Doping Agency report slammed the International Association of Athletics Federations, accusing former head, Lamine Diack, of running a clique that covered up organised doping and blackmailed athletes as officials looked the other way. Jamaican sprint king Bolt, the biggest name in athletics with a plethora of titles, records and commercial deals, said the IAAF had failed their athletes. “When I heard it was quite shocking for me because as far as I was concerned I think they were doing a good job to clean up the sport,” he said in Kingston after collecting his sixth National Sportsman of the year award. “You feel let down as an athlete who wants to actually help clean up the sport and then something like this comes up.” Diack stepped down last year after 16 years leading the IAAF and was replaced by Briton Sebastian Coe.

BUSINESS Zero forex allocation to BDCs will favour banks -Analysts }47

FAITH

Sanctity of Truth

SUNDAY

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2016

N150

We didn’t benefit from Dasuki’s largess -CAN, PFN}39

President Buhari’s ‘budget of change’ The Nigerian T Project he Nigerian socio-economic and socio-political landscape has journeyed from Obasanjo’s reform agenda to Yar’Adua’s seven-point agenda. We also had a transformation agenda under Jonathan, and presently we have Buhari’s change agenda. Under the previous leaders the national budgets were tilted towards achieving the goals of their respective governments. None of them to some extent improved the larger standard of living of the people. The budget of N6.08 trillion, going by analysis, may likely suffer the fate of its predecessors if steps are not urgently taken to retool it. The budget assumption was premised on an estimated daily crude oil sale of 2.2 million barrels at $38 per barrel, with a conservative exchange rate of N199 per dollar. Simple multiplication and addition will show that N6.08 trillion will be exercised if economic variables go as planned. PMB has focused on non-oil revenues by broadening tax base and improving the effectiveness of the revenue collecting agencies. Also, with the full implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), we expect significant improvement in the collection and remittance of independent revenues. To further support the drive for increased remittances, PMB’s administration promises that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies present their budgets in advance, and remit their operating surpluses as required by Section 22 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Said, Clement Ejiofor (https://www.naij. com/694368-opinion-2016-budget-enormous-soap-bubble.html) “The budget was premised on an estimated daily crude oil sale of 2.2 million barrels at $38 per barrel with a conservative exchange rate of N199 per dollar. Simple multiplication and addition will show that N6.08 trillion will be exercised if economic variables go as planned. However, as sales do not equal profit, what the president presented to the National Assembly were oil revenue estimate of N820 billion (the federal government share of the expected oil profit), non-oil revenue of N1.45 trillion and independent revenue of N1.51 trillion. It means that using the 56%-revenue formula the federal government share accounts for N820 billion out of the N1.459trillion total profit from the crude oil sales. The balance of N4.620 trillion represents the cost of selling 803 million barrels of crude annually. This huge cost accounting for 76% of revenue nourishes the economy of the refining country to our detriment. The pertinent question is: can the federal government sustain this budget when oil price falls below $38 per barrel, considering that we already have a deficit of N1.8 trillion?” – Analysed by one Clement Ejiofor Today, on prices have already crashed to below $28 dollars per barrel, the worst in many years On the economy, PMB, injected new leadership at the helm of our revenue generating agencies including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS). The Government is implementing the Treasury Single Account (TSA) which, so far, has provided greater visibility of Government revenues and cash flows. Federal Government Perspective The federal government plans to change approach towards budget planning that has been crippling Nigeria’s economy for years – To do this,

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

Vice president Yemi Osinbajo, announced that the federal government plans to change its approach towards budget planning. He told that “it will use a zero-based budgeting for its 2106 budget planning. This method of budgeting means that all activities, related costs and revenues are fully reviewed every time at the time of budget formulation”. The Vice president disclosed the federal government’s plans for 2016 at the presidential villa in Abuja during a courtesy call on him by the National Economic Summit Group. Besides plans to use the zero-based budgeting model for the 2016 budget, the federal government also plans to focus on a “bottom-up approach to development” for the next four years. Osinbajo also said that the introduction of the Treasury Savings Account for all the governing bodies was a policy to prevent the possibilities of financial leakages. Another announced initiative by the federal government is establishing an infrastructure fund planned outside the budget to make funding critical areas of the economy such as power sector and roads easier. The vice president also asserted that the federal government will look for ways of funding capital projects from the sources outside budget. According to him, “allowing retail investors to come into the nation’s capital market will ultimately deepen the market with potentials for multiplier effects on other sectors of the economy.” The directive from the federal government that every federal government ministry, parastatal and agencies should begin remitting its earnings into a TSA) have had spirally negative effects on the Nigerian banking industry, from where huge funds have been withdrawn. Many of the banks have been gasping for breath, holding on to life by the whiskers. NOW THIS Holding the ministers accountable Immediately after the presentation of the 2016 budget, a few ministers were interviewed by Channels TV and they corrobo-

Saraki

rated the claims of President Buhari. All of them assured that once the budget was passed, things will begin to turn around for good in the country. The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udoma, said: “Given the state of the economy right now, we must revive it and the only way to revive it is to spend on infrastructure which is what we’re doing in this budget. It’s an infrastructure and is a jobs budget. We also set aside money for social intervention. As the president explained, we’re going to recruit teachers, we’re going to get loans for market women and do various projects to stimulate the economy and create jobs.” To the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, “What you [Nigerians] are to expect is job, job, job! We’re going to create jobs and then if you look at the budget, it’s an intervention budget for job creation. There are so many programmes that will run under them but all of them end up being for job creation.” In alleviating the concerns of Nigerian

BUSY BODY

farmers, Chief Audu Ogbeh, the Minister for Agriculture declared: “They [Nigerian farmers] should expect a key support in training, extension services, post-harvest management, in a bigger market abroad for their produce. They should expect innovations in livestock, tree crops. And the beautiful news is that the demand for Nigerian produce abroad has never been this high. That’s what makes it marvelous. And then the private sector; Nigerians are responding amazingly to the call for agriculture.” AND THIS Mysterious Disappearance of the National Budget Members of the National Assembly are divided over the alleged withdrawal of the N6.08 trillion 2016 budget by President Muhammadu Buhari. Reports recently surfaced that PMB had written to the National Assembly requesting to withdraw the budget proposal to amend some figures. Some Senators were said to be in agreement with the alleged withdrawal, saying the president’s action was in order, while others did not. According to Senate leader, Senator Ali Ndume, it was impossible for Buhari to have withdrawn the budget, as it is not a document that one can just withdraw, since it can be adjusted during debate. Kabiru Gaya, chairman of the Senate Committee on Works said Buhari has a right to readjust the budget: “I do not think it has been withdrawn but whatever the case is, the figure of the entire budget will not change. Mostly, there are adjustments of priority projects. So, if the figure under the subhead is not defined, then he has the right to readjust it and bring it back to us. The adjustment can also be done even while we are still discussing the budget.” On his part, Senator Ita Enang, the Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), said that to the best of his knowledge the budget was still with the National Assembly and he was not aware of the budget withdrawal. If therefore the presidency intended to withdraw the budget because of public proposals, there are better parliamentary ways of doing this. To hear that a National budget has simply grown wings and disappeared is a great embarrassment to Nigeria, especially in the eyes of the international community. Question for the week: Where exactly is Nigeria’s 2016 National budget? LAST LINE Are you all reading and digesting this Sunday sermon on the mount of the Nigerian Project, by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, OFR? • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

By Aliu Eroje

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