Sunday telegraph sunday, march 27, 2016 by Newtelegraphonline

PICOMSS probe

4 Banks, goods worth N200bn razed in kano, kebbi markets

Two Generals, former NIMASA DGs risk arrest over N200bn RIP-OFF }4

SUNDAY Sunday, MARCH 27, 2016 Vol. 3 No. 767

Sanctity of Truth

/newtelegraph

N150

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INSECURITY

Clampdown on Illegal Aliens Begins }3

•Immigration arrests 500, deports 112

Toolz slays with curves }23

NEWS FUEL SCARCITY

L-R: Founder, Slok Group, Dr. Orji Kalu; Nesochi Kalu; Chief Executive Officer, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde; Ebubechi Kalu and Mrs. Ifunanya Kalu during Lagarde’s visit to the Kalus at their residence in Potomac, Maryland, USA...on Saturday.

Tinubu to Kachikwu: Apologise to Nigerians }5 •FG moves to identify female suicide bomber’s Chibok claims

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 27.03.16 BODY & SOUL

Inherited greatness Our pedigree often sets a standard against which we try to measure up to. Gboyega Afe Babalola talks about the stellar footprints he tries to follow

}24

POLITICS

Controversies Besides governance, it seems Governor Nasir El-Rufai second name is stoking controversies

}15

BUSINESS

Gold mine As Nigeria’s revenue from oil nosedives, agriculture and solid mineral exploration bacons as the main base of a prosperous post oil Nigerian economy, says experts

}39

FAITH

Pastors' reputation "Government need to sanitize the ‘Nigerian Pastors are leading people to hell," a Kenyan pastors says

}49

SPORT

'Moroccans worship me'

Super Eagles World Cup striker, Michael Babatunde, feels on top of the world as supporters of Raja Casablanca Football Club worship him like a god

}53

Magazine

Lagos waters Dirt in Lagos shores is compounded by wreckages, refuse and faecal waste

}20&37

SUNDAY

Editorial

The perennial scourge of oil theft

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

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

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

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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 MARCH 27, 2016

NEWS

Onwuka Nzeshi and Johnchuks Onuanyim

n a bid to stem the tide of insecurity, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a special operation to fish out illegal aliens in different parts of Nigeria and deport them to their countries of origin. At least, no fewer than a hundred illegal migrants have been repatriated to their home countries in the last couple of months. In 2013, the Nigerian Immigration Service said it deported over 22,000 illegal migrants from across the country. Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Mr. Martin Abeshi told Sunday Telegraph that special operations of identifying illegal migrants have been conducted in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Kano. Abeshi acknowledged that though there has been a continuous influx of illegal migrants into Nigeria, the Nigeria Immigration Service has been working round the clock to ensure that these elements did not constitute a nuisance or compound the security situation in the country. “l expect that every week, you should be hearing that some numbers of aliens have been deported

Insecurity: Immigration clamps down on illegal aliens •Arrests 500, deports 112 out of this country. It happened in Port Harcourt, it is happening in Lagos, it is happening in Kano and it is happening all over the country. We are up to this task. Our boys and our officers in various parts of this country are performing very well and I am very sure that we are on top of this matter. Our officers are doing well to checkmate any foreigner that is here in this country and is trying to disrupt the peace that we are enjoying today,” he said . Nigeria has one of the most porous borders in West Africa, with about 1,497 illegal entry points, thousands of illegal migrants usually find their ways into the country with relative ease. The current escalation of violent clashes between armed herdsmen and farmers in several states is believed to be remotely connected with the influx of some illegal

migrant herdsmen from countries such as Niger, Chad, Mali and Senegal. Last week, no fewer than five hundred illegal aliens were arrested and paraded before newsmen in Minna, Niger State. Out of this number, 300 were found to had entered the country illegally from Niger Republic. The immigration service has commenced the process of repatriating these illegal migrants to their country. Comptroller of Immigration, Niger State Command, Mr. David Adi, who paraded the ‘irregular immigrants’ in Minna, said most of the arrested persons were from the Republic of Niger and would be repatriated after proper documentation of their identities. Adi said that the arrest of the migrants followed an intelligence operation conducted by men of the Nigeria Immigration Ser-

vice in the 25 local government areas of Niger state. “When I assumed office, I discovered that the state is filled with illegal immigrants. So, I immediately swung into action. I summoned all my Divisional Immigration officers of the 25 local government areas in the state to find out the location of these immigrants, where they are staying, what type of duty do they do and get back to me. “So, what we are seeing today is as a result of intelligence work done by my officers in Chanchaga, Bosso, Kotangora, Bida, Suleja and Paiko. As you can see, we have arrested over 500 persons and out of which 300 are illegal immigrants. “You know that most of the people misinterpreted the provisions of the ECOWAS protocol which stipulates that members of a community or a country

can come into Nigeria. Now, the law at the same time said they must have their travelling documents, and must come in through approved entry points. They must also have visible means of livelihood. But what we are seeing is that most of these people do not have travelling documents, some of them just hold nylon (cellophane) bags and come into the country,” he said. Adi urged the citizens of Niger State to join forces with the Immigration Service to flush out these illegal migrants because they posed security threats to the state and country at large. “They claim that to obtain international passport is very difficult yet they could not get the ECOWAS permit. We want them to go back to their countries or get proper documents to enable them get residents/ work permit as the case may be so that we can document them into our system,” he said. He warned that after

the planned repatriation, if any of these persons returns to Nigeria, they will be rearrested and repatriated again until they ceased to enter Nigeria illegally. Similarly, the Gombe State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service has repatriated 112 illegal aliens to their countries of origin in the last eight months. Comptroller of Immigration in the state, Alhaji Yunusa Aliyu, said that the exercise followed a ministerial directive, adding that the service would soon embark on another on another round of the operation to identify illegal aliens. Aliyu disclosed that most of the aliens repatriated were from the Republic of Niger and Mali, adding that they were mostly found in Gombe and Akko Local Government Areas of the state. He sought the cooperation of the indigenes of Gombe State in the task of flushing out the illegal aliens.

Prophet raises the alarm over decaying college buildings Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

ollowing total dilapidation of infrastructure at Ihenweorie Secondary School Ahiara in Ahiazu Mbaise Council Area of Imo State, attending classes in the school has become a dangerous venture. To this end, Prophet of Anglican Diocese of Mbaise Church of Nigeria, Mr. Godfrey Gbujie, has called on the state government, corporate bodies and public spirited individuals to urgently intervene and rehabilitate the buildings to save the lives of the innocent children who are schooling there. He told journalist recently in Owerri that out of the13 buildings constructed in the school, founded in 1978 by Oguama, Akabor, and Obodo Ujuchi autonomous communities, only two buildings are currently manageable for human use. Gbujie said the level of decay in the college is outrageous and beyond what the community can handle. He said: “The dilapidation is beyond the capacity of rural communities and requires government

attention. This school has more than 550 students among them over 100 candidates sitting for the forthcoming NECO and WASCE and yet the classrooms, laboratories, and examination halls are all in a state of absolute ruin. “It is the magnitude of decay that got my attention and on behalf of the community I am appealing to the Imo State government to urgently alleviate the sufferings of these venerable students and leaders of tomorrow,’’ he said. Gbujie regretted that Ihenweorie Secondary School was among the few approved secondary schools in Mbaise for the conduct of NECO and WASCE external examinations, even as some secondary schools in Mbaise have been banned for the conduct of external examinations, while Ihenworie Girls retains the status because of good academic discipline, and moral records of the school. “That is why we are calling for the intervention and urgent assistance from government and public spirited individuals to assist the students write the 2016 external examinations in a decent academic

environment,” he said. Prophet Gbujie blamed the colossal decay in Ihenweorie College to the non-appointment of any indigenes of the area in government. According to him, since the administration of late

Governo Sam Mbakwe, the community has not been privileged to have any of their sons or daughters in government and that has led to total neglect of the community, saying the community is ready to partner with Gov. Rochas

Okorocha or any group to bring Ihenweorie college out of this ruin capable of adversely affecting the future of this community. A student of the college who gave his name as Chidiebere told journalists that more than 80 per

cent of the students at the college undertake their lessons under trees. “As you can see, most of the buildings in our school are bad, we usually study under the trees, and anytime it rains, classes are disrupted,’’ he said.

The hall of Ihenweorie Secondary School, Ahiara Mbaise, Imo State, where over 100 candidates at will write the 2016 May/June WASCE/NECO examinations. Photo: NAN

SUNDAY 27 MARCH, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

NEWS

PICOMSS probe: More Generals, former NIMASA DGs’ heads to roll Paul Ogbuokiri

…over N200bn extorted from NIMASA, others

ore heads, including those of Army Generals (serving and retired) and a past Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) will roll, if President Muhammadu Buhari goes ahead with his decision to launch a full investigation into the activities of the disbanded Presidential Implementation Committee on Maritime Safety and Security (PICOMSS). This is coming on the heels of the discovery by the 13-man presidential panel auditing arms procurement that a serving Major General in the Nigerian Army between 2007 and 2015, took N4 billion from NIMASA to upgrade some military facilities in one of the states in the South-South, when he was serving there. Only N250 million out of the money was reportedly spent by the general on the project. However, Sunday Telegraph investigation reveals that the case of the Major General was a tip of the iceberg, as PICOMSS, until the time it was scrapped by the Federal Government in 2013, operated above the law. It was also said to be collecting money from NIMASA without recourse to any civilised process, and of course, was spending the money as it deemed fit as it was not answerable to any authority. Meanwhile, PICOMSS came about following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States of America, a development that compelled the International Maritime Organisation to put in place the International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) Code to detect and deter security threats in the maritime transportation sector. Nigeria commenced its implementation in 2004, with the ad-hoc Presidential Implementation Committee on Maritime Safety and Security (PICOMSS), set up by then President Olusegun Obasanjo to ensure that the country complied with the IMO ultimatum to member nations to comply or face sanction. The committee was under the Federal Ministry of Transport (FMOT) and it had then Minister of Transport, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, as its chairman with some retired Generals as

members, while most of the security agencies were co-opted into the taskforce to ensure that Nigeria escapes the IMO hammer. President Obasanjo was said to had enlisted many retired military officers into the committee because he wanted to rehabilitate them. Nine months later, Nigerian seaports were given provisional compliant certificate by the IMO and at that juncture, PICOMSS was supposed to wind down but it hanged up. It was, however, no longer under the Ministry; it became military boys’ affair. Though the serving and retired top military brass in PICOMSS went about extorting ‘security money’ from maritime institutions, especially NIMASA, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and even International Oil Companies operating in Nigeria, the state of insecurity at the Nigerian seaport deteriorated so badly that as at 2013, when NIMASA took over the responsibility of ensuring the security and safety in Nigerian seaports, more than 90 per cent of the Nigerian seaports were ISPS Code compliant and the country barely escaped US Coast Guards sanction. Though sources close to NIMASA told Sunday Telegraph that the maritime regulator was then paying N100 million monthly to PICOMSS, the payment of a whopping N6 billion to the illegal body by a certain Director General of NIMASA raised a lot of eyebrows within the agency and outside. The DG reportedly paid the money because he was assured of his second term in office by those highly connected generals. The DG reportedly further gave jobs the generals’ wards, but that could not secure him the second term he so much desired, as the Jonathan administration was not well disposed to the activities of PICOMSS. Jonathan went further to scrape it and its assets were given to the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA. Meanwhile in an attempt by the generals to stay on, they started to promote an amorphous body, called the National Maritime Security Agency (MASECA), a name that swallowed PICOMSS. The name was used to collect over N200 billion from government agencies in the

name of providing maritime security. Also, Sunday Telegraph learnt that the generals had the full support of a one time National Security Adviser in the Yar’AduaJonathan administration; they continued to lobby the National Assembly for an Act of the Parliament to be passed, setting up MASECA. The Seventh Federal House of Representatives passed the bill but there was no concurrence from the Seventh Senate. Sunday Telegraph recalls that before the reported recent directive by President Buhari, stakeholders had started calling for a probe of the over eight years of the existence of the body which despite the over N200 billion it reportedly collected from government agencies and private oil companies, it has reportedly resurfaced in Abuja, seeking to continue from

where it stopped. It was disclosed that they are angling to leverage on the image challenge currently facing NIMASA to cajole the Federal Government to hand over the security of the Nigerian maritime domain to them. They were also said to have appointed a Director-General for the nonexistent agency (name withheld). According to the ‘DG’, MASECA is “presently running skeletal services and is involved in intelligence gathering, pending when its enabling bill would be passed by the Senate. Aside wanting to be responsible for the security of the Nigerian waters, Sunday Telegraph checks reveals that the general are also eyeing the pipeline protection jobs, which government has cancelled its contract with the exmilitants.

It will be recalled that when the House of Representatives held a public hearing on the bill in 2010, stakeholders in the maritime sector kicked against the bill, saying it ran against the grains of prudence and accountability in governance. IMO also kicked against the passage of the controversial bill into law because it would run fowl of International maritime conventions. The stakeholders further said that the PICCOMSS failed to perform adequately, the duty for which it was set up as it was on record that 10 years after, only two of Nigeria’s seaports were found to be compliant. This development, they argued, informed the threat by the US Coast Guard (USCG), in 2013, to blacklist Nigerian seaport if the country failed to raise its compliance level.

Sunday Telegraph learnt that IMO opposition to MASECA was hinged on the provisions of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, which disallows militarisation of merchant shipping, while in the proposed law, the body may be encouraging the carriage of arms onboard trading ships. Also, going by the provisions of IMO conventions and guidelines, NIMASA is presently the only agency recognised by the IMO to carry out maritime safety and security administration in Nigeria. It was gathered that Nigeria faces the risk of being sanctioned if MASECA is institutionalised to carry out activities relating to maritime safety and security in Nigeria through the passage of the MASECA bill, since the country is a signatory to the SOLAS Convention.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (middle), with his wife, Bolanle (2nd right); Husband of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mr. Saheed Adebule (right); Father of the Groom, Alhaji Akanni Seriki and Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; during the Nikkai Ceremony of Alhaji Akanni Seriki’s Son at the Classique Events Place, Oregun, Ikeja...on Saturday

FG moves to identify female suicide bomber’s Chibok claims Anule Emmanuel and Paul Ogbuokiri Abuja

he Federal Government is arranging to dispatch two members of the Chibok community to neighbouring Cameroon to verify and establish whether a female suicide bomber arrested in the country on Friday is one of the missing schoolgirls abducted in Chibok almost two years ago. Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant in Media and Publicity to President

Muhammadu Buhari, in a statement yesterday said that the Minister of Women Affairs, Senator Aisha Alhassan and Nigeria’s High Commissioner in Cameroon have already swung into action and are receiving a lot of cooperation from the Cameroonian authorities. According to Garba, it has already been confirmed that one of two girls was claiming to be among the girls kidnapped from Chibok on April 14 last year. There is although doubts about the information as

a result of revelation from Cameroon that the two girls were aged about 10 years. “One of the two is also believed to be heavily drugged and therefore not in full control of her senses,” the statement added. Garba revealed that the Nigerian High Commissioner in Cameroon, Ambassador Hadiza Zakari Mustapha had confirmed that the arrested girls may be brought to the Capital, Younde by Monday, at which point the High Commission will seek permission to meet with them.

Meanwhile, the Murtala Mohammed Foundation has offered to cooperate with the Federal Government in sponsoring two parents from Chibok who have been selected to embark on the trip to Cameroon. The two are Yakubu Nkeki, Chairman of the Parents of the Abducted Girls from Chibok association, and Yana Galang, the group’s women leader. “The Nigerian High Commission will receive the two Continues on page 5

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 27 MARCH, 2016

NEWS

Buhari promises to end politically motivated killings at Easter Anule Emmanuel Abuja

P L-R: Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon, Chief Lanre Razak,and APC Chieftains Lagos state Alhaji Mutiu Are, during the 70th Birthday celebration of Chief Lanre Razak, Balagun of Epe Land, in Lagos…recently

Paul Ogbuokiri

he recent statement credited to the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, that he was not trained as magician and that basically Nigerians should count themselves fortunate that the NNPC under his stewardship has been able to bring in the amount of petrol fuel it is currently doing; has drawn the ire of no less a personality than the highly revered National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Aswaju Bola Tinubu, who said that he should apologise to Nigerians for treating so lightly. This was contained in a statement he personally signed yesterday and sent to Sunday Telegraph yesterday. Asiwaju Tinubu who expressed his empathy, compassion to his fellow country men and women over the statement, said, “Perhaps the statement by Kachikwu was made in a moment of unguarded frustration or was it an awkward attempt at a joke. Whatever the motive, it was untimely and off-putting.” He berated the minister for the unguarded statement, saying the remark did not sit well with the Nigerian people, adding that Nigerian

Tinubu to Kachikwu: Apologise to Nigerians were as right to feel insulted as the Minister was wrong to have said such a thing. Asiwaju Tinubu who was a former governor of Lagos State and a principal in the success of APC at the Presidential poll, said the fuel shortage is severely biting for the average person, stressing that Nigerians are forced to remain in lines far too long, for too much time, to pay too much money for too little fuel. “This is no joking matter. Livelihoods and people’s welfare are at stake. With so much on the line, Kachikwu’s flippancy was out-of-line. He was basically telling Nigerians that they should be lucky that they are getting the inadequate supply they now suffer and that they should just be quiet and endure the shortage for several weeks more,” he said. He further said that Kachikwu’s intervention panicked and disappointed the public as to the duration of the crisis, adding that it insulted the people by its tonality. According to him, the Min-

ister spoke with the imperious nature of a member of the elitist government the people voted out last year and not the progressive one they voted in. He reminded him that he was not coerced to take the job and he accepted it and its responsibilities knowingly. He cautioned Kachikwu that his portfolio being a strategically important one, he needs to reestablish the correct relationship with the public because, “they no longer feel he is working for their optimal benefit as their servant. Instead, he seems to be standing above them, telling them to take it or leave it. For his policies and stint in office to be successful and a help to this government, he must have the support and belief of the people at this tough time. He urged him to learn to talk to the people in a way that they believe he seeks their best interest and understands the hardship weighing upon them. He stressed that he must ask the people to work with him and perhaps to endure a bit longer

but with the knowledge that he is working to resolve this matter as fast as he can and as permanently as possible. Also, Aswaju Tinubu urged the Minister to reassure Nigerian that he is dedicated to the position that once these current lines at the filling stations are gone that they shall never again reappear as long as he has any influence in the matter. He said, “To do this, requires neither magic nor training in that strange craft. It requires just the willpower to forge a better Nigeria. These must be the common trademarks of those serving in a progressive government for these attributes are integral parts of the spirit and ideals upon which the APC was founded.” According to him, upon such notions was this administration voted into office by the Nigerian people in the operation of their sovereign will to seek a national leadership that would pursue their interests to the utmost and give them every fair chance to live in a better Nigeria.

I need legal advice to seal Kogi Assembly - Arase

he Inspector-General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase said he needed the advice of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice before enforcing the resolution of the National Assembly to seal Kogi House of Assembly complex. Arase disclosed this while speaking with newsmen in Abuja on Saturday at the sidelines of an exercise tagged ‘Walk Against Crime,’ organised as part of

activities to mark the police week. The Senate had directed the Inspector-General of Police to seal the Kogi Assembly complex, pending the resolution of the political crisis in the house. He said that the position of the Senate had been sent to the minister for his advice on the matter. “What I have done is to send the papers to the minister of Justice for his advice. I am a police offi-

cer; I also need the advice of a legal expert to actually know the way forward. Once I get the response of the minister, I will be able to take a decision,`` he said. On the exercise, he said it was part of the police week aimed at connecting with other Nigerians. According to him, the mental and physical health of a police officer determines his or her level of work he or she can do. “We are really encour-

aged that you have come this morning in spite of your numerous schedules, to assist us to walk against crime. “This is one of the stories we have been trying to preach that the police cannot do it alone,`` he said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the walk took off from the Force Headquarters to the Unity Fountain in Maitama, and back to the Force Headquarters.

resident Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerians to team up in support of his administration in tackling some of the security challenges facing the country especially recent politically motivated killings and the insurgency in the North East. The President, who stated this yesterday in his Easter message to Nigerians said security agencies were being trained, empowered and repositioned to win the war against terrorism and make mass killings, abductions and other criminal atrocities things of the past. “I ask for greater support from all Nigerians in this regard. We must put a stop to politically motivated killings. Our communities must be made safe again for all inhabitants to live together in peace and harmony.” Buhari said the celebration of Easter in Nigeria and all over the world provides an opportunity for brotherliness, love for one another which is the true meaning of the season. He said: “For Christians all over the world, this celebration is in commemoration of the supreme sacrifice which Jesus Christ made for the salvation of mankind. “The Gospels also tell us that during his earthly ministry, Jesus Christ repeatedly urged his disciples and followers to ‘love one another

as I have loved you’. “As we celebrate Easter this year, I sincerely believe that it will serve our dear nation very well if we all imbibe this essential message of Jesus Christ and truly learn to love our countrymen and women as we love ourselves. The President explained that Nigeria will make faster progress towards the achievement of the peaceful, united, strong, progressive and prosperous country if citizens eschew all divisive, parochial, ethnic and religious sentiments and rivalries, and begin to live more harmoniously. According to him, this is exactly what “Jesus Christ and the founders of the world’s other great religions enjoined mankind to do. “Our unfortunate notoriety in recent years as a country where the blood of men, women and children are wantonly and callously shed in frequent orgies of criminal, political, ethnic and religious violence has become very embarrassing and utterly unacceptable. “My administration is determined to achieve greater peace and security across our nation by ending the avoidable conflicts and crises that hinder our national progress.” The President therefore called on Nigerians to all play their parts as patriotic citizens and do all that they can to ensure that Nigeria becomes a safer, more peaceful and happier place for every citizen and others.

FG moves to identify female suicide bomber’s Chibok claims Continues from page 4

and will facilitate their access to the two girls once permission to meet and verify their identity is obtained from the Cameroonian authorities,” Garba noted. Meanwhile, sequel to the reported confession by an arrested female suicide bomber in Cameroon that she is one of the Chibok girls, the BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group has said that the claim by the young woman should reawaken the Nigerian government’s zeal and commitment necessary for ensuring that they girls are rescued The group in a statement yesterday, said the development suggests that there is now have a possible source of credible intelligence as to what transpired, where the others are, and other leads required to facilitate their rescue. The statement signed by the spokesperson of the group, Dr. Oby Ezekwelili,

said that the government as a matter of urgency needs to swiftly act to ascertain the facts of the alleged confession and make them public. “It is getting to 24 hours (48 hours today) since the news broke. “We need to know her name and identity, her parents’ names, where she is from, possibly extract DNA samples for quick testing and matching, etc,” the statement said. The statement further said that regardless of whether the alleged female suicide bomber is one of the Chibok girls or not, the group’s ideals and sentiments remain that using children, girls who should be in school (or any humans at all) as suicide bombers is not only tragic and cruel, “it is completely reprehensible and we denounce it;” it said, adding that the child suicide bombers are themselves victims, and must be seen and treated as such.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

EASTER MESSAGES

Atiku, Mark, Oritsejafor preach sacrifice, religious tolerance at Easter OUR CORRESPONDENTS

ormer Vice President and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku Abubakar has urged Nigerians to be strong amidst the current difficulties confronting the country. He predicted that better days would soon come as there was hardly any testimony without a test and a crown without a cross. In an Easter message released in Abuja by the Atiku Media Office, the Turaki Adamawa said that the message of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection was a perfect analogy for the current situation in Nigeria. “The significance of the celebration of Easter, demonstrates that there is never an indomitable situation that hope, good team-spirit and hard work cannot overcome.” The former Vice President also urged his compatriots not to lose hope, particularly as the ruling APC govern-

ment continued to work assiduously in finding long term solutions to the country’s hydra-headed problems. “Things may seem rough and tough today, but it is only for a while. Nigeria will surely rise again in line with the spirit and tenets of Easter.” The Turaki Adamawa urges Nigerian leaders at all levels to emulate the great sacrifice that was the life of Jesus Christ, by working to ensure that they do everything within their powers to lift majority of Nigerians out of poverty into prosperity. Similarly, a former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has canvassed for a peaceful, harmonious and united Nigeria where brotherly love reigns amongst the citizens. In his goodwill message to Nigerians marking this year’s Easter celebrations, he said that virtues such as religious tolerance and good neighbourliness were strate-

gic for peaceful coexistence and meaningful development. Mark urged Nigerians to respect the sanctity of the constitution which prescribes freedom of worship in which every citizen can uphold and practice his or her chosen faith any where without molestation . He implored clergymen to inculcate in their followers the time-tested virtues of our faith anchored on love, sacrifice , forgiveness and good neighbourliness which the Lord Jesus Christ symbolizes. He enjoined Christian faiNational President, Christian Association Of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor has also felicitated with all Nigerians on the occasion of the Easter celebrations, describing it as another opportunity to reflect on the lessons of the season.Easter, Oritsejafor said, was the climax of the Lenten season, was meant to remind Christians of God’s

power over everything that he created including death. “Nigerians, particularly Christians from different denominations must work in line with the teachings of Easter which focuses primarily on penance, forgiveness, sacrifice and the demonstration of unconditional love for one another. “As Nigeria strives to contain the menace of insurgency and social injustice which has displaced many, Christians are enjoined to offer prayers for the poor and the abandoned in this special period of Easter. Christians must also respond to evil with good as exemplified in the life of Christ which is summarized in the story of Easter,” he said. The cleric urged Nigerians to remember to lend some help to thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) scattered across the country and remain committed to the service of their fatherland and the cause of humanity.

L-R: Former Super Eagles Goal Keeper,Mr. Peter Rufai; former Super Eagles Captain,Mr. Kanu Nwankwo; Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase; Artist, Mr. Korede Bello, and Nigeria’s ex-international, Mr. John Fashanu, during Nigerian Police Walk Against Crime in Abuja…yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Ambode, Obiano, Aregbesola, Umahi, Ekweremadu urge love, regeneration

s Christians in the country join their counterparts across the world to celebrate Easter, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of unity, tolerance and peaceful co-existence as panacea for overcoming the nation’s current challenges. Ambode gave counsel during his Easter message to Lagosians; he said that such fundamental values would go a long way in promoting and strengthening the foundation of love, peace and harmony in the society. He added that the season should serve as a reminder to all of the selflessness, love, sacrifice and tolerance of Jesus Christ throughout His earthly sojourn. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, the Governor said: “Remembering that foundation is particularly meaningful this Easter because our nation is facing challenges that we can overcome if we choose to, by exercising collective tolerance and be ready to make sacrifices”. He noted that this season calls to mind the selflessness, love and tolerance which were the hallmark of Jesus Christ’s life during His sojourn. Meanwhile, the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano has called on Christians across the world to seize the moment of deep reflection that Easter usually brings to reawaken their humanity and re-establish the presence of God in their lives. In a Special Easter Message in Awka, Obiano observed that the complex challenges that face modern Christians has serious-

Amosun, Catholic bishop charge Nigerians at Easter Kunle Olayeni ABEOKUTA

gun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, yesterday urged Nigerians to always provide selfless service to humanity just as Jesus Christ demonstrated through his death and resurrection. In the same vein, the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta, Most Rev. Peter Odetoyinbo, advised Christians not to despair but remain hopeful for a better country. In his Easter message, Amosun charged Christians and indeed all Nigerians to learn from the life

of selfless service and love lived by Jesus Christ. According to him, love and selflessness was exemplified by the sacrifice made by Christ when he was crucified. “When we show love and offer selfless service just as Christ did, then our nation and indeed the world we live in will be a better place for all of us,” the governor added. Odetoyinbo, in his own message, noted that one of the important messages of Christ’s resurrection is the fact that hope is sustained for the Christian. The bishop observed that though the prevailing socio-economic situation

of Nigeria may be daunting, the citizens should not give up under their painful experiences. He advised the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to channel all the monies recovered in its anti-corruption campaign towards improving the living standard of the people. He said, “In present day Nigeria, when nothing seems to be sure politically, economically, socially, morally, religiously, etc many Nigerians have lost hope especially in the government of the day. There is no electricity supply, no water, no petrol, bad roads and lesshope

for the future. Children are abducted especially female ones, kidnappings everywhere, violence, hunger, no jobs anda host of other realities that offer no hope for Nigerians, especially the young ones. “It is true that suffering is written on the face of the average Nigerian on the street. This is not to say that the government is not doing anything but the change that is rapidly expected and the promises of the past leaders have not brought any respite for Nigerians. “Nigerians should not give up under these painful and uninviting experiences in all aspects of

their lives. Every Nigerian should keep trying and doing his or her best to survive because as it is now if possible every Nigerian would construct his or her own road, sink a borehole or dug a well for water, provide electricity and security and a host of others. “Every Christian therefore that shares the hope of the Resurrection in Christ must be signs of hope for the Nigerian people and society, for their families and friends. Nigerians only hope that the corruption campaign and all monies returned will be used to raise their standard of living and not go as usual into oblivion.”

ly eroded the values that once sustained the essence of mankind and weakened the connection between many Christians and Jesus Christ and calls for rigorous self-interrogation and re-awakening. And the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has called on Nigerians to emulate the virtues of forgiveness and self-sacrifice as exhibited by Jesus Christ in order to move the nation forward. Ekweremadu, in his Easter message, said recrimination, forgiveness, and selfishness were major clogs in the nation’s wheel of progress. He said: “The Easter celebration is another reminder that forgiveness and self-sacrifice remain indispensable factors in nation-building. I, therefore, call on the Christian faithful and all Nigerians to imbibe Christ’s sense of self-sacrifice by putting the nation’s interest above personal and other narrow interests. In his own message to Nigerians, the Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, said that only a total rebirth in national consciousness and values would deliver Nigeria from its many challenges. Aregbesola, said renewal, a crucial theme in the celebration of Easter, should make Nigerians rediscover themselves for the purpose of their creation in the first place. He called on all, especially Christians, to use the period to pray to God for Nigeria to come out of her present economic challenges. Aregbesola, who described Easter as a period of sober reflection, enjoined Nigerians to live in peace and harmony at all times despite the present economic hardship. In the same vein, the Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, has called on the people of the state to always meditate on the central message and the purpose of the birth, death and resurrection of Christ by ruminating on the essence of Easter. Umahi called on all Nigerians to pray for the country and always remember that the Jesus Christ died for because of his love for humanity and that his resurrection shows that there is hope for humanity. He also used the opportunity to praise Ebonyians for their unflinching support for his administration, noting that the successes he had so far recorded would not have been possible without them.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

NEWS

Saraki’s case worrisome – APC scribe Biodun Oyeleye ILORIN

he Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Timi Frank, says the continued trial of Sen. Bukola Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) is worrisome. Frank, who said this in a statement signed by him and released to newsmen in Abuja on Friday added that Saraki’s travails at the CCT were undeserved. The statement said: ``I sincerely hold that the current trial of Saraki is not only underserved, but amounts to paying a good man with evil. I also want

l As protests rock Ilorin over trial to say that the leaders of our great party have unfortunately remained quiet in the face of evil. ``I don’t believe we have forgotten that the victory of the APC during the last general elections could not have been possible without courageous strategists like Saraki who lent their political weight in favour of the APC at the risk of their own lives and personal survival. ``I don’t think we have forgotten how Saraki as a Senator in the 7th Senate brought the attention of Nigerians to the fraud perpetrated by the last administration in the

name of fuel subsidy. ``I recall how Saraki led five other governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the APC - a development that successfully turned the political tide against the PDP and eventually tipped the electoral scale against them during the 2015 general elections. ``I don’t think we have forgotten how Saraki led scores of senators to cross over to the APC on the floor of the Senate,’’ it said. The statement alleged that the judiciary was giving in to blackmail from a section of the media by

refusing to do their job as required by law. ``Saraki has paid his dues at a time it was suicidal for anybody to stand up to the then ruling PDP. I believe it is time for all of us to act to save our party. ``It is time to rally round our generals who have fought valiantly and led us to victory. To abandon Saraki is to abandon a worthy comrade,’’ it said. Meanwhile, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State as well as hundreds of youths and women from other platforms protested

yesterday against the way the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) has been handling its trial of Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki. They alleged that the tribunal’s last judgment was leaked to the social media about six hours before it was read by Justice Umar Danladi. Speaking while addressing the protesting youths and women, state chairman of the party, Alhaji Ishola Balogun-Fulani lamented that from what has transpired so far at the tribunal, there was no need guessing that Saraki’s trial is a political set-up. He told the protesters, most of who carried plac-

ards with various inscriptions denouncing the CCT that his party found it difficult to believe that the judgment read by the tribunal’s chairman last Thursday had actually been read by people on the social media as early as 4.00am, while the real judgment was delivered at 10.30am, about six hours later. Some of the inscriptions on the placards read, “The judgment of CCT on Saraki is already on the social media by 4am on the Day of Judgment by Umaru Danladi,” “Saraki’s case is political”, “CCT has two laws, one for Tinubu and one other Nigerians” and “Sahara Reporters based in United States is an agent of evil.”

Gunmen kill policeman in Lagos

he Lagos State Police Command has said one of its men attached to Mopol 23 was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Satellite Town area of the state on Good Friday. The spokesperson for the command, SP Dolapo Badmos, who confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), gave the name of the deceased simply as Corporal Babatunde Badmos said that the anti-riot policeman was shot

L-R: Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji receiving a Quran from the Secretary General, Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Murziq Siyanbade and Chairman Muslim Community, Oyo Stae, Alhaji Kunle Sanni during their courtesy visit to the Olubadan…yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Four banks’branches, goods worth N200bn razed in Kano, Kebbi markets Muhammad Kabir KANO

Abubakar Abdul KEBBI

cores traders in Kano’s biggest Sabon Gari Market, and their counterparts in Brinin Kebbi, in Kebbi State are now in sorrow over two fire incidents which destroyed properties and good worth over N200billion. According to an eyewitness account, the cause of the fire outbreak, which started at about 3am at the text books/educational instruction material section of the market was yet to be established as at the time of filing this report. Moments after the fire outbreak, it spread from stall to stall, at the end of which it spread to a nearby four bank branches, ravaging vital documents in the process but it could not be readily ascertained whether

it consumed cash deposits in the bank’s still reinforce vault. What was, however, worrisome was that none availability of water and battery in the fire fighters’ vehicles located in the market prevented them from promptly combating the fire. It was a sorry sight, as the fire fighters watched helplessly as the inferno spread through the clusters of shops, consuming everything in sight. At the close of the day, not less than 600 shops were razed beyond redemption. Besides, the fire fighters watched helplessly, while the fire raged in circles to the skies and enveloped the entire vicinity, with thick black smoke, coupled with intermittent fierce fire balls. Apart from that, all routes leading to the scene of the fire disaster were blocked with motorbikes, hand trucks, as well as human traf-

fic, all of whom were struggling for passage to salvage their precious wares. In Kebbi State, it was also a tale of woes as properties worth millions of naira were destroyed in another fire outbreak at Birnin Kebbi Central Market. Briefing newsmen at the scene, the Chairman Birnin Kebbi Market Association Alhaji Umar Danguna Gwandangwaji said that the fire started around 12.30am and more than half of the market was affected. He explained further that this was not the first term they experienced the fire outbreak in the market and promised to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the inferno. “We don’t have light in the market and we are yet to ascertain the cause and the level of the damage” he added. Also speaking while visiting the place the Emir of Gwandu, Mohammadu

Eliyasu Bashr expressed dismay over the incident, and urged the affected people to take heart and assured them of government support towards resettling them elsewhere. The Chairman Birnin Kebbi Local Government and the General Manager in charge of Market. Mohammad Abubakar Ambusa and Abubakar Bello Badam assured the people that government would look at the matter and put smile on the faces of affected people. Addressing newsmen, the member representing Birnin Kebbi in the state House of Assembly and also the House Leader, Hon. Bello Yakubu Relisco expressed shock and sympathy over the inferno, assuring them that being a lawmaker they would contribute by setting up a committee to know the level of the damage and the causes in order to prevent the future reoccurrence.

dead by two gunmen on a motorcycle walking along the road She said that contrary to some news making the round, the police man not killed by suspected armed robbers during a bank robbery operation. ``There was no attempted robbery on Diamond Bank on Friday. Only a police man walking along the road was shot dead by two men on a motorcycle. ``The command is investigating the killing to unravel the motive,’’ Badmos said.

Aspirant tackles Umar over comments Ibraheem Musa KADUNA

ormer Military Governor of Kaduna State, Col Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd) has been advised to desist from reckless comments capable of distorting the contributions of people who served their country meritoriously. A House of Representative aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last election and a former Vice Chairman of Kaduna North Local Government Area, Hon Jibril Tafida, who gave the advice in a press statement yesterday, said Umar should stop playing to the gallery. Hon Tafida, who was reacting to an interview where Umar alleged that the State Security Service (SSS), under the former Director General, Mr. Ita Ekpenyong was found wanting in the war against the Boko Haram insurgency , wondered why the former governor has now found his voice, when he could have reported the matter to the then President

Goodluck Jonathan. ‘’Col Umar was close to President Jonathan and the then National Security Adviser, retired Col Sambo Dasuki is his friend and course mate at the Nigerian Defence Academy. These two are Ekpenyong’s superiors and Umar was close to them. Why didn’t he report the DG to them?’’ he asked. According to Tafida, Umar alleged in the said interview, that Ekpenyong tried to frame him and other respected northern elders as the sponsors of Boko Haram. ‘’The question is, why didn’t he report the matter to either the President or his friend, National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki?’’ The statement noted that Umar mentioned some respected leaders like Professor Ango Abdullahi so as to mobilise northern sentiments against Ekpeyoung, adding that that will fail because the North knows who its true leaders are. When our correspondent called Umar on the issue, he failed to pick his phone, neither did he reply to his text message.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

NEWS

OGUNCCIMA tasks FG on economic diversification Kunle Olayeni ABEOKUTA

he Ogun State Council of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA) has called for the conversion of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) into a compulsory agriculture-based scheme for all graduates. The chamber urged the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to effect the change as a way of shifting Nigeria from an oil-based economy to self-sufficient and agriculture-based one. Addressing a press conference heralding the Seventh Gateway Trade Fair in Abeokuta, the President of OGUNCCIMA, Otunba Toyin Taiwo, said the NYSC must be salvaged from being a waste and drain on the nation’s economy. The trade fair, scheduled to hold between April 18 and May 2, 2016, is expected to fea-

ture 163 exhibitors and over 150,000 visitors to the state. Taiwo explained that the event was coming at a time of economic instability in the country, stressing that only a return to agriculture could improve the lot of Nigerians. He said though the NYSC had outlived its purpose, the scheme could still be useful by converting it to a compulsory one-year agricultural training for all graduates after which government must set up farm settlements for interested members. The OGUNCCIMA boss noted that the change mantra of the Buhari administration must permeate all sectors of the nation’s economy. He said: “When we say change, a change should be in all ramifications, a change in every direction, a change in everything that we do. If it’s a change that is going to be well articulated by using our left hand to start eating and is going to be beneficial to us, let there be a change.”

Why we threaten to drag FG to ICC over Agatu killings -HURIWA Chukwu David ABUJA

he Hunan Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), yesterday clarified that it threatened to drag the Federal Government of Nigeria to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its failure to promptly and decisively respond to the recent killings of Agatu people in Benue State by the Fulani herdsmen, where hundreds of lives were lost, and property worth hundreds of millions destroyed. The National Coordinator of HURIWA, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, made the clarification in a telephone conversation with Sunday Telegraph in Abuja, where he condemned the massive killings of the people of Agatu community in Benue State three weeks ago by Fulani herdsmen. He also condemned the

killing of Biafran agitators, who had peaceful protests in Onitsha and Aba areas of the South-east geo-political zone, describing it as an infringement on their fundamental human rights to peacefully express themselves on issues bothering them. Comrade Onwubiko, who was enraged by the action of the herdsmen, said that if the federal government continued to keep quiet on the matter, particularly in respect of the plights of the helpless victims of the incident, who are now refugees in their own land, the group would be left with no option than to seek redress on behalf of the people at the ICC. He also cautioned that, unless the federal government took urgent steps to address the crime, the Agatu massacre might degenerate to a civil war, describing the act as genocide.

...it’s genocide, says monarch Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

he paramount ruler in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, the Odejo K’Apa, Chief John Antenyi, yesterday described the killing of innocent people in Agatu by suspected Fulani herdsmen as exactitude of genocide. The paramount ruler has also called for the total rehabilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the area to return to their an-

cestral homes. Chief Antenyi, who made his feelings known while receiving the wife of the state Governor, Dr. Mrs. Eunice Ortom in his palace, said the killing in Agatu is a clear case of ‘genocide and an insurgency’, stressing that without rehabilitation, the people would remain IDPs. The Apa paramount ruler, who commended Governor Samuel Ortom over his concern and support for the Agatu IDP’s, appealed to him to prevail more on the Federal

Extremism: Ban students’ trip to Iran, group tells FG Yekeen Nurudeen ABUJA

articipants at a summit that discussed the threat of growing religious extremism in Nigeria have advocated outlawing travel to Iran, especially for the purpose of studies, saying the Middle East country plays a key role in radicalizing youths by teaching them extreme ideologies. They warned that the Federal Government must limit external influences in the orientation of Nigerian youths, which they said has now become a big source of concern. The summit on the Emerging Extremism in a Post Boko Haram Nigeria with the theme “Building a Consensus against Extremism as a Catalyst for National Integration” was organised by the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations on Human Rights and Interfaith

Religious Organisations for Peace. Resource persons and participants who stressed that there was need for religious tolerance in the country, however, noted that radicalization of people forming their own communities and laws within the Nigeria state should not be allowed. They explained that formation of states within the Nigerian state like special places of worship for some selected persons should be outlawed by legislature at federal, states and local government levels. A resource person, Mr Ayokunle Fagbemi, the Executive Director, Centre for Peace Building and Socio-Economic Resources Development (CePSERD), explained that the Boko Haram phenomenon and the incidents between the Shiite sect and the Army were cases of “security breaches” for the country.

Fagbemi identified what he described as “political correctness” as “the major obstacle to overcome in building a consensus against extremism”. He further noted that decision makers in the country must constantly be aware that “conflict and violence entrepreneurs are taking advantage” of the country’s security breaches and that a management system must be in place to address these breaches. The Executive Director of CePSERD pointed out that the Shiite issue must be viewed from the right perspective to understand why they created another community within the state. “Thankfully, the Chief of Army Staff was of the same faith as the Shiites, the trouble would have been difficult. No group on its own would accept (admit) extremism on its own,” he said. In his keynote address

at the summit, Dr. Udenta O. Udenta, a former director Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, recommended that youths must be repositioned in the post industrial society where technology and new media have the potentials of being deployed as tools for radicalization. Dr Udenta, who explained that the last week’s terror attack in Belgium was a product of failing to deal with a festering pool of radicalisation in Brussels, warned that Nigeria must limit external influences in the orientation of the youths. A communiqué issued at the end of the summit urged concerted efforts towards de-radicalization of youths that have been exposed to extreme doctrine by the Shiite sect noting that it is not desirable to have another group to replace Boko Haram when it is completely defeated.

L-R: Representative of Enugu State Government, Mr. Ogbu Nwobodo; President, Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), Rev. Ugochukwu Chime and Chairman of the occasion, Senator Sam Egwu, during the opening ceremony of the 27th Enugu International Trade Fair, in Enugu on…Saturday. PHOTO: NAN

Government to assist them re-build houses destroyed and construct roads among other amenities. In her remarks, Mrs. Ortom said, she was in the area to sympathise with the IDP’s and present some relief materials to them and promised to take his message to the governor. Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Boniface Ortese, who accompanied the governor’s wife, reiterated the commitment of the agency to cater or the welfare of the IDPs.

Three killed in fresh Taraba crisis Sabiu Mustapha JALINGO

t least three people have been killed and many others wounded in a fresh violence that re-erupted on Friday at the troubled Ibbi town of southern Taraba. While one version of the story said that the violence started when two Muslim men were cursed by a Christian woman while riding a motorcycle to the mosque, another version

said it was the Muslim men who started cursing the Christian woman. In recent days, Ibbi town has experienced a number of ethno-religious clashes between the Hausas and the Jukuns, which claimed the lives of dozens of people. Several houses were also razed in the violence. All efforts to hear from the Taraba Police Public Relations Officer, Joseph Kwaji, on the new development, proved unsuccessful. Last week, the State

Commissioner of Police, Mr. Shaba Alkali confirmed at a press conference that 12 persons were killed in the separate clashes that occurred in the Ibbi town. “Preliminary investigation is ongoing to ascertain the root causes and the sponsors of this clash,” the CP said, adding that “ some suspects have been arrested and are now undergoing interrogation.” However, a dusk to dawn curfew has been imposed in the area to contain the crisis.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

NEWS

igeria’s senior lawyers, referred to as the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), have urged the Federal Government to wage the war against corruption without violating Nigerians’ fundamental rights or undermining the rule of law. BOSAN made the call at the end of a meeting of its members held at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos. The organisation disclosed that its members were opposed to acts of corruption, adding, however, that the fight against the scourge should not be at the expense of Nigerians’ human rights. The senior lawyers accused some agencies of the Federal Government, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), of acting in ways that raise serious con-

SANs warn against reckless anti-graft war, debasement of judiciary cerns about human rights violations and violations of due process. BOSAN’s statement, signed by Ebun Sofunde and Seyi Sowemimo, declared that the organisation abhorred “all forms of corruption and money laundering by anyone, lawyers inclusive, and wholeheartedly supports appropriate efforts of the government aimed at curbing the menace of corruption through thorough investigation and prosecution of offenders in a fair trial that complies with due process of the law and ensures equal access to justice by the prosecutor and the accused, while guaranteeing the

fundamental rights of all persons as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).” While endorsing the investigation of any lawyer, BOSAN urged the government and its agencies to respect due process in order not to violate the rights of suspects. It declared that its members had “a duty and a responsibility to hold ourselves to the highest professional and moral standards and are determined to continue to ensure that those standards are maintained.” BOSAN’s statement also deplored any disrespect displayed by persons or agents of the government

to court orders, adding that such disrespect amounts to “a step towards anarchy, which does not and cannot augur well for a democratic society such as Nigeria.” BOSAN’s communiqué cautioned against the “spate of disparaging remarks and attacks on the Judiciary and judicial officers, often made in a generalized manner and perhaps calculated to intimidate and infuse fear in Judges, who are sworn to dispense justice without fear or favour.” It added that such blanket attacks on the judiciary were “unfair to the many honest and hard-working judges in our country.”

BOSAN urged lawyers not to join the bandwagon of those who disdain the judiciary through “generalized statements of a disparaging nature.” The organisation’s statement also drew attention to the “evolving practice of delays and non-payment of judges and judicial workers their salaries and allowances.” It cautioned that the practice gravely undermines the independence of the judiciary. BOSAN also reaffirmed its belief that accused persons are entitled to their choice of counsel, urging lawyers to give the best possible defense to their clients. The communiqué warned that “the harassment and intimidation of lawyers in any form in the

course of their legitimate work is unlawful and counter-productive in a democratic society,” describing such harassment as “not only unlawful but antithetical to the rule of law.” The communiqué said: “Nothing is further from the truth that once a lawyer undertakes the defense of an accused person, particularly a professional colleague, then he must be in active support of the alleged crime or be working against the anti-corruption crusade. The Nigerian Constitution, for good reason, presumes a person innocent until proven guilty before a court of competent jurisdiction following a fair hearing, with an opportunity to conduct his defense by a counsel of his choice.”

Tension in Delta over murder of Tompolo’s kinsman

L-R: President, Damian UM Azubuike Foundation, Mr. Nnamdi Ayubuike; General Manager, Business and Corporate Services, The Sun Publications Limited, Mrs. Neta Nwosu and representative of the Vice-Chairman, Nigeria Telecommunication Commission (NCC), Mr. Ephraim Nwakonneya, during the Damian UM Azubuike Foundation lecture and award ceremony, at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) at the…weekend. PHOTO:TONYEGUAYE

WAEC flays cheating among candidates

he West African Examinations Council (WAEC) on Saturday identified examination malpractice as a major challenge militating against its operations in its 64 years of existence. The council’s Head of Test Administration, Mrs. Frances Iweha-Onukwu, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos. According to her, the scourge is a canker worm that has eaten deep in the fabric among candidates, not only in Nigeria, but also in member countries. She, however, noted that the council was gradually winning the war as it kept introducing new cuttingedge technology to stop the ugly trend. “One major challenge we are battling against, since inception, has been that of

examination malpractice, but we are happy that we are winning the war. “We know that the candidates might want to beat our technology, but we will continue to make sure that we check them in any way they try,’’ she told NAN. According to IwehaOnukwu, another major challenge is the ‘rogue website’. “Tackling ‘rogue website’ has been a serious challenge the board is facing,’’ she said. A rogue website is one that subverts a legitimate web site by appearing to replace it. Iweha-Onukwu said that perpetrators of such act use rogue website to distract lazy candidates, who, instead of studying hard for their examination, busy themselves logging onto the rogue website.

She, however, said that many operators of the fake sites were being apprehended with the help of security agents. The official said her de-

sire was to see the council compete favourably with international examination bodies like the Educational Testing Service (ETS) among others.

here is palpable fear in Warri, Delta State following the alleged killing of a man believed to be kinsman of former militant leader, Government Tompolo by a Naval officer. The incident, which occurred in Tompolo’s hometown, Gbaramatu, is said to be have unsettled residents of the area. According to reports, the men of the Nigerian Navy were deployed to the area following renewed vandalization of oil installations and the victim, Bernard Pius, was allegedly killed at a jetty in Tebujor Okpelama community in Tompolo’s hometown. According to Tebujor Okpelama, the community chairman, the incident had thrown the community into serious fear. He said: “The incident happened at about 10pm Thursday night. Pius was scooping sand and it is a

normal commercial activity at such quiet time when fishermen also ply their trade. The victim was alerted by folks that his sand boat on a 40 horsepower engine at the jetty was drifting. “He then rushed back and was pulling it back ashore with another boat. That was the point the suspect patrolled in with other colleagues in a gunboat. After shooting and killing him he moved into the community bragging about the act and threatening to shoot another person if he does not get gratification. Chief Godspower Gbenekama, the Bebenowei (Chief Mobilizer) of Gbaramatu kingdom also decried the killing, and has called on the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government to proffer a lasting solution to the unrest in the region, reports premium times.

Police officers seek payment of election duty allowances Tai Anyanwu

fficers and men of the Special AntiRobbery Squad Abuja and Lagos (SARS), who performed security duties in the governorship elections in Kogi, Beyelsa and Rivers states rerun, are earnestly asking the Inspector General of Police to settle their unpaid night allowances. Sunday Telegraph learnt that 60 officers covered the Kogi election; another 60 served in the Bayelsa elec-

tion while 50 officers provided security coverage at the just concluded Rivers State governorship rerun. A reliable source within the police disclosed that out of N237, 000 accruing to each of the officers for the three election duties, only N15, 000 was paid to each of them. The source lamented that their counterparts, who served under the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), had since be paid their night allowances for their participa-

tion in the three elections. His words: “INEC officials have taken theirs for the number of days they spent on election outside their stations duties; but each time, Police officers are asked to make sacrifice to serve the nation. Why should Police officers be denied their allowances,” he asked while noting that conduct of elections is actually the duty of INEC. He, therefore, wondered why Police officers are all the time asked to make such financial sacrifices

while INEC official will not sacrifice their allowances. “We need this money to cater for our needs and family. What we are asking for is our right not bribe. It is known in the Financial Regulations as Night allowance; since officers are entitled to payment for special duty outside their station. Efforts to get the comments from the Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olabisi Kolawole on the matter were abortive as she failed to pick her calls.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

COLUMNS

Why Kachikwu should become a magician Villa Notes emmyanule@yahoo.com

Anule Emmanuel

inister of State for Petroleum who doubles as the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu did not know that he had really performed a magic. Kachukwu recently led officials of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) as well as the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) to a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja where they discussed on critical problems facing the country’s oil and gas sector. The NNPC boss had emerged from that important meeting knowing little that just few words from him, depending on the direction could perform magic and so, did not necessarily mean that he must be a trained talisman. More than that, the minister failed to understand the power of

the tongue and the fact of his personality which had capacity to trigger an adverse effect in the oil industry. In the past several weeks, Nigerians have been facing hard times with long queues at filling stations across the country. Some people even spend the night to buy fuel for their cars and generators. This of course, necessitated the meeting between President Buhari and the two unions. Many people had earlier hoped that the outcome would salvage the situation, never knowing however, that they would have to wait for at least another two months when the queues at filling stations may start to vanish. From Kachukwu’s facial disposition and a few of the NUPENG and PENGASSAN’s officials when they emerged from the about one hour meeting, it was evident that all was not well with near solutions to the petroleum scarcity crisis currently being faced by Nigerians.

INEC Diary ezekatchy@yahoo.co.uk

Onyekachi Eze

n the present circumstance, the job of Professor Mahmoud Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is not an enviable one. Most the elections he conducted since he assumed office in November last year ended in controversy. Of course, more worrisome is the level of violence and blood-letting that characterises some of these polls. Last Thursday, President Muhammadu Buhari, at the meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), admitted that such was not the nature of the election that produced him as President in 2015. Professor Yakubu began his electoral assignment in an unimpressive manner. The first two elections he conducted in Kogi and Bayelsa states were inconclusive, earning the commission the sobriquet, Inconclusive National Electoral Commission. INEC was able to declare winners of the two elections

after supplementary polls. The March 19 rerun elections into national and state legislative houses in Rivers State are turning out to be INEC’s albatross. The elections have further confirmed the fears of most Nigerians that unless something urgent is being done, the 2019 general elections are in danger. The results of the 19 out of total 37 of the elections were still being withheld about six days after the elections were conducted. INEC was able to release only 10 results (one House of Representatives and nine House of Assembly), while elections in eight local government areas were cancelled because of violence and election malpractices. INEC said it was auditing its personnel and materials, and therefore, no further result would be released until it completes the exercise. About four persons, including a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Samuel Okonta, died during the election. A meeting of the com-

Obviously, President Buhari, who himself is worried by the unfortunate situation may have given a matching order during the meeting to the Petroleum Minister to work closely with these two unions in resolving the fuel problem, having been under pressure particularly by continued threats of strike actions from different interest groups which could rather worsen issues. Could such an order have thrown Dr. Kachukwu off balance? One is tempted to believe so because of the manner in which the minister approached questions posed to him by State House Correspondents regarding the current fuel scarcity crisis. Hear him out: “One of the trainings I did not receive is that of a magician but I am working very hard to ensure some of these issues go away,”. What the minister meant clearly here is that Nigerians should not just expect a sudden disappearance of the queues. He continued: “Of course you are aware the DSAP programme begins in April so over the next two months we should see quite frankly a complete elimination of this. I think if we do that although I don’t want to put a time frame but I will expect

that it will improve over the next two months. “Our strategy is that whatever is produced in the refineries will not go for sale, we are going to keep them in strategic reserve. Because the key problem here is that there is no reserve, anytime there is gap in supply it goes off. “So we are going to dedicate the next couple of months to moving all the products that we produce to strategic reserve so that we can push up the reserves in the country. He disclosed further that “believe me, this is giving me and my team sleepless nights and we are working on it and we are committed to making this go away, Nigerians should please bear with us.” Kachukwu did not fail to remind his critics that when the present administration took over, the NNPC was importing just 50 per cent of petroleum products into the country, that figure he said has moved up to 100 per cent. The implication is that the corporation at its stands today remains the sole importer of petroleum motor spirit (PMS) and continues to also face the challenge of distribution. With all these attempts to explain the unfortunate trend, the minister

only succeeded in aggravating the situation. The queues and anxiety have since doubled a few minutes after his comments published by most online networks. With what has happened, the petroleum minister seems to be recanting his words pushing the blame on reporters who he insist go him wrong. Few hours after his interview at the villa, his Group General Manager, Public Affairs Division, Garba Deen Mohammed issued a statement describing news reports that were already trending as

“misinterpretation” from the correspondents. That was expected. But journalist especially those reporting the presidential villa are familiar with such antics of government officials chewing their words when reports from their comment begin generate crisis. Mr. Minister should own up to the additional panic he has caused and rest the blame game. Although, he has yet received the training of a magician, if that is what he needs to end these queues, he should enroll now to save Nigerians from these aufferings.

INEC chairman’s declining approval rating mission’s management concerning the rerun elections in Rivers State, was held last Wednesday. INEC director, Voter Education and Publicity (VEP), Osaze Oluwole-Uzzi said a statement would be issued on the commission’s position regarding the withheld result. The statement was still being expected at the time of filling this report. This is the first result of an election was being withheld without court order. Needless to say that the action of INEC is unnecessarily heat-

Yakubu

ing up the polity, especially in Rivers State. What the commission needs to ask itself is, does it has power to withhold result of an election? Professor Attahiru Jega had answered such question before, Professor Yakubu should examine this and get further legal opinion. When Professor Yakubu was announced as replacement of Professor Jega as INEC chairman, it was warmly received, given his antecedents in the Education Trust Fund (ETF) and

Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) where he previously served. Wahab Shittu, a legal practitioner, immediately after his confirmation by the Senate in October last year, described Professor Yakubu as “a gentleman and a thoroughbred professional.” Shittu based his assessment of the then new INEC Chairman on his (Yakubu’s) evidence-in-chief as prosecution witness in the prosecution of top executives of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Yakubu was then the then the Chief Executive of ETF. The legal officer expressed the belief that Professor Yakubu would “approach his new assignment with integrity, character, competence, capacity, hard-work and the highest degree of patriotism.” But Professor Yakubu has so far failed to understand that the INEC job demands an element of radicalism, which is lacking in him. Professor Jega succeeded because he is a unionist.

Yes, the INEC Chairman is a gentleman and a thoroughbred professional but not when it comes to dealing with Nigerian politicians. It requires a bit of ‘madness’ to handle them. Unfortunately, this is lacking in Professor Yakubu. The INEC Chairman appears to me to be a pacifist who would not like to offend anybody; this is not one of the credentials for the job. If one may offer a piece of advice, Professor Yakubu needs part of Maurice Iwu’s boisterousness and Jega’s radicalism in order to succeed. Before then, President Muhammadu Buhari should tell Nigerians if he is actually the one in charge of some of his aides and party members. In the elections conducted so far, the president’s aides were the ones calling the shot. The impression was that they were acting the script of Mr. President! This has only succeeded in creating tension and electoral violence. If what happened in the elections Professor Yakubu has so far conducted is not checked and corrected, then the 2019 general elections are

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016

OPINION No, Kalu has a case for the Tribunal

t is only people like Mao Ohuabunwa and a selection of INEC officials in Abia State, who tooks part in the March 5 election in Abia North, which was marred by violence and ballot snatching and was declared inconclusive but later declared in favour of Mao of the PDP, can subscribe to the assumption that the declaration in the said election is not contestable at the tribunal. It is! Mao’s unsolicited advice to Kalu, dissuading him from seeking redress at the tribunal, is misplaced and misleading. Every righting thinking Nigerian who followed the trend in the Abia North election rerun would legally encourage Kalu to head for the tribunal for a redress. Though Mao may be having a scanty memory with regards to court rulings on similar cases, it wouldn’t be misguiding to educate him on a few. Referring to the case of Salik v. Idris (2014) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1429) 36, extent of

powers reposed on the Returning Officer (RO) in an election was revealed. While delivering judgement on that case, Justice Kumai Bayang Aka’ahs of the apex court held thus: “It is only a returning officer who has the responsibility to make the return of an election. The state Resident Electoral Commissioner cannot usurp the power and proceed to make an alteration of the result. He has no power to alter the result.” Relating this to the case of Abia North, the returning office had rightly declared the result inconclusive due to irregularities witnessed in some polling units just as was witnessed and cancelled in the just conducted Rivers State senatorial rerun elections. But in the case of Abia North, there was a twist when the Head of Education and Publicity of INEC Abia State erroneously declared that in “a rerun, a winner must emerge by a simple majority.”

By his argument, I would ask him, does the electoral law permit the use of arms, thuggery and ballot snatching all to ensure that a winner emerges? Is a rerun permission for a free for all or it is a repeat of an election which is to be guided by the law? Is he denying irregularities in the said election or he is suggesting that it should be overlooked? What is Edwin Enabor actually educating the public on as the Head of Education and Publicity of INEC? On the other hand, the RO himself has no right in law to reverse even his first declaration. Any act similar to that is an aberration. That the RO declared the result inconclusive and later contradicted himself by reversing it in favour of another candidate is wrong. Justice Kumai went further to rule that: “A returning officer cannot revise the return of an election. Where in the counting of votes cast in an election, an arithmetical

error is discovered after the return has been made; the Returning Officer cannot make a second return. Any return made subsequently to the original return is invalid.” This clearly substantiates that Kalu has a case to seek redress on. The Returning Officer rightly declared the election inconclusive by cancelling elections in areas where there were irregularities and has no legal powers to reverse himself through orders from any person or official except a law court with a competent jurisdiction. Mao can save his misleading words and await recall from the senate. He was issued a certificate and was welcomed in the Senate by the Senate President but the fact remains that going by the law, which every true democrat like Kalu abides by, Mao will still be called back by the courts. There are no two ways about it. It is just a matter of time. •Izuoma Ibe writes from Abuja.

Why they want Emefiele out

he political intrigues playing out as being orchestrated by the advocates of Mr. Godwin Emefiele’s sack is nothing but sickening. You wonder what Emefiele’s sins are. The clamour is assuming a maddening crescendo without the advocates considering the implication of their endeavour on the economy. About two years ago, an unprecedented political action spearheaded by hawks around government made the government in power to suspend the Governor of the Central Bank. Though unprecedented in the annals of Nigeria, the suspension by fiat had its consequences on the economy. The Governor then was Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, now Emir of Kano. At that time the Nigeria economy was in good shape. But consequent upon that action, the economy began to have issues as the international community out of panic lost interest in the economy and they began to recall their investments. The case of Emefiele, the current CBN Governor, is even more laughable and dangerous. The same intrigues are now playing out. Emefiele and the Bank he runs in the last few months have been under undue vilification by supposedly critics but who are obviously agents of the enemies of the people of Nigeria. A lot of ignorance is being playing out, with underserved blames being heaped on Emefiele’s head. Mr. Godwin Emefiele may have been unlucky to be appointed as governor at a troubled time of the economy, but he came prepared. Rather than being supported, he is being bashed left right and centre by those bent on seeing him leave the exalted position. Reasons as canvassed by these hawks in and around the corridors of power, both informed and uninformed, are that Emefiele is bereft of ideas and lacks the capacity to run the economy. What some of these enemies of Nigerians do not know or pretending not to know is that, the economy which is having some challenges is not caused by the governor. The global crude oil price which has witnessed its ever lowest slides is majorly the cause of the bad shape of the economy. The nation’s revenue has dipped. Oil as we know is the only major source of financing the economy. Emefiele is not responsible for the dip, or volatility of crude oil price. Rather than lending all hands on deck to

fix it, we have embarked on blame games. Worrisome to patriotic Nigerians is these unabated attacks on the Central Bank and Mr. Emefiele. It is certain that the governor has stepped on some powerful toes in the society when he promised Nigeria and Nigerians that the Central Bank under his watch will spend its energies on building a resilient financial system that can serve growth and the development needs of the Nigerian people. Keen watchers of the Nigerian economy will agree that, despite the current challenges which are not peculiar to Nigeria, the Bank under Emefiele has been resolute in fulfilling its mandate. This is why they are calling for his sack. Those clamouring for Emefiele’s sack can be categorized into three groups – the FOREX speculators and looters who want their monies out at all cost, the BDC owners – some of who registered between 5 and 10 under different company names and the international currency sharks and their media. Though the Bank over the years has been a whipping child of all manner of political and economic pundits and novices alike, the battle for the removal of the governor started immediately after he pronounced the suspension of 41 items from the FOREX window of the Bank. A patriotic decision he took (as if he foresaw the impending shortfall in the nation’s revenue) to encourage local production of the items, and rein-in the drain in the foreign reserves. Instead of Nigerians asking – why it took any government official this long to take this kind of policy decision? The local investors and their international cronies took up arms against the Bank. Nigeria’s economy is almost down and out, just because of the precarious situation we found ourselves as a mono-economy. Should we not note as a nation that instead of vilifying Emefiele, he should be encouraged further with his economic diversification agenda of making the CBN a model central bank that is delivering price and financial stability, aimed at promoting sustainable economic development. Emefiele’s second sin was his battle against currency speculators and looters. He came out strong with reforms in the Bureau de Change sub-sector, and immediately after, both local and international conspirators took up battles with the CBN using their

accomplices in the media – particularly the online outfits and some international magazines and broadcast media like the Financial Times of London, The Economist, Reuters, Bloomberg, to mention but few and the local media demanding for his removal. In an edition of the Financial Times of August 16th, 2015 it derogatively tagged the decision by the Bank to reform the BDC sector in its editorial as “Nigeria Adopts Unorthodox Measures to Defend the Naira” written by one Maggie Fick. So was the editorial of The Economist edition of July 15th, 2015 entitled “Toothpick Alert”. The local media has also been awash with warped, uninformed stories and articles from emergency economic commentators and columnists, doing the bidding of their paymasters. The rating agencies were not excluded in their neo-colonialism enterprise. Since Mr. Emefiele embarked on his radical reforms in the financial sector, Standards and Poor has never hid his aversion for some of the policies churned out by the CBN. So was JP Morgan’s delisting of Nigeria from its Government Bond Index. Was the decision taken by this commercial bank to delist Nigeria not an insult on our national integrity? Just because CBN refused to further devalue the naira? What about the dire consequences of devaluation on some Nigerians who spend over 70% of their expendable income on food items alone. And since the CBN refused to heed their satanic campaign, these neo-colonialists and their collaborators, veiled as intellectuals, businessmen, NGOs and journalists, particularly the online media, have embarked on ‘tailor-made sack campaigns’ to make way for the candidate they want to replace Emefiele. Surprisingly too, is the unpatriotic attitude some NGOs that enjoy annual subventions from these neo-colonialists. They have joined the fray, raising their voices to the roof calling for Emefiele’s sack apparently to satisfy their masters. They may not like Emefiele’s face, but has anyone come out with superior argument to fault his monetary policies. We cannot continue growing other economies and kill our own. Has Godwin Emefiele, and the CBN, decided to chart a new course for Nigerians, who are these detractors to say otherwise. The United States dollar is not Nigeria’s currency, why should we dollarize the econo-

my? Why must we kill the naira? With some of the revelations coming out from the media lately about the CBN, it is also obvious that many of its staff may have been compromised and recruited into this unpatriotic endeavour. And as moles they are likely to have been induced to compromise and undermine the system, while not ruling out the activities of the deposit money banks. Many of the managing directors of some deposit money banks have been undermining the CBN, and this is simply because they had expected Emefiele, being a former colleague, to churn out policies that will favour them. Under Emefiele, the CBN has accelerated the e-payment systems, thus making it difficult to perpetrate fraud hitherto rampant in the banking sector. The CBN through its Biometric Verification Number (BVN) has blocked avenues through which bank customers are duped of their hard earned money. Are these the sins of Emefiele? The clamour for his sack has assumed a dangerous tempo; and we need to tread carefully. It is quite obvious that many of the promoters of this evil campaign are those who felt short-changed with the CBN pro-people policies who are trying relentlessly to armtwist the President, Muhammadu Buhari, to heed their evil call. If Emefiele is removed, what would the promoters and their agents achieve? What would be the consequences of their action on the economy and the already impoverish Nigerians? Ms. Christine Largarde, the Managing Director, International Monetary Fund (IMF) when she visited Nigeria a few months back said Nigeria is an economy the 21st century is waiting for, if only the government can tackle and fix some defective structural challenges noticed in the economy. This is what Godwin Emefiele has been doing, even before the constitution of the federal cabinet. Let the campaigners sheath their swords and join hands with Emefiele and the President, Muhammadu Buhari, in redirecting the course of the economy rather than pull him down at all cost. It is all about Nigeria, not Godwin Emefiele. •Deepak Michael, wrote in from Jos, Plateau State

Sunday Mail

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

thesundayletters@gmail. com and sundayletters@ newtelegraphonline.com

MAIL BAG

* Letters to the Editor

The Sunday Telegraph

Handle naira with care

SMS

08037613380 Normal message fees apply

Boko Haram is bouncing back

Dear Editor,

Not long ago, a respected foreign economic journal reported activities at the Lagos harbour. Its correspondent observed the myriads of vessels with merchandize of all descriptions, but to the reporter’s utter consternation, as the ships offloaded they left empty. This story depicts the import-dependent, non-productive economy of Nigeria is. Except for the oil terminals where ships laden with oil leave the country’s shores; there are hardly other significant commodities or finished goods for export. And this is the bane of the Nigerian economy. The economy is at the mercy of the global oil market and the politics associated thereof. This monoproduct dependency has done much havoc to the economy. Without the oil boom, perhaps by now cocoa, groundnut and oil palm processing factories would have been dotting the landscape. But now we are net importers of these products we were once notable producers and exporters. As oil prices drop, all facets of the economy feel the pinch. The naira has plummeted and the reason is not far-fetched: we are short of foreign exchange as cash inflows have declined by over 75 per cent. The direct consequence is the naira’s relative weakness to the dollar and other strong currencies. In the face of this apparent weakness of the naira compared to the dollar, the strategic economic decision will be devaluation. Experts have argued the pros and cons of devaluation and the government has its trite, unambiguous position; and that is, it does not fall for the idea of devaluation. At face value the government’s stand is a populist, patriotic stand. All the arguments considered, there is no alternative to devaluation given the present economic situation. The best way to handle the naira is to allow market forces to determine its value; while the government concentrates on measures that prevent dumping of non essential imported goods, unnecessary foreign trips etc. Fixing the value at N199 per dollar is unrealistic and allowing it to float on its own is outrageous, just as its present black market value of about N325 to the dollar shows. Genuine dollar users can hardly obtain their requirements at NI99; and if they obtain their needs at N325 in the black market production costs will go up and a cost that the consumer must pay for. The result will be hyper-

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Dear Editor,

How safe is this fortification? GODWIN IREKHE

inflation. To keep industries afloat and make their cost pains minimal, the naira’s value must be determined through a consensus amongst government, the CBN and the private sector. Such a forum will from time to time determine the naira’s value as dictated by economic indices. It will make economic sense to make such a guided value gauging of the naira. Black market fixations amount to fraud. In order to save industries, make production costs reasonable and avoid inflation; the naira must be handled carefully or else it will be an economic catastrophe. USMAN BULAMA

Service of sacrifice Dear Editor, Our society has lost the joy of national unity. Our consciousness has veered off from the trajectory of common goodness. Individualism has possessed the zeal for us to progress the nation. We have turned into monsters who want to conquer the national resources at all cost. We have grown churches like mushrooms. The sermon remains the same: materialism. Evangelists see visions of prosperity. They pray for the success of our leaders. They ask God for them to grow abundantly in wealth. It never touches their spirit that the intention of the leaders that they are praying for may be corrupt. We have lost the moral

compass to navigate the course of our collective growth. Every eye is focused on cutting a big chunk of the national cake. Luckily, nature has baked a mountainous share for us. Our leaders get too fat and turn into a league of gluttons who gulp down our goodies. Civilized nations task their governments to give their people the best. They formulate models of governance that will facilitate the vision of a greater society. Officials selflessly lend their ingenuity to expand the scope of possibilities to better their people. Our leaders use their political wizardry to cause our wealth to disappear into their private possessions. They shall not prosper for they have contravened the cosmic order. Consequently, we have failed to rise up against those who defiled our national conscience. I will prefer to believe that the hardship we suffer should elevate us to a pristine reflection. I believe we should be born again as a country in the spirit of service of sacrifice. We should work to build a beautiful Nigeria and not for individual aggrandisement. Let us close our eyes to materialism, tribalism, ethnicity, religious intolerance and other ills that pull us down and focus on building our paradise in our own soil. We have what it takes. We can do it if we can find our national consciousness. PIUS OKANEME, UMUOJI, ANAMBRA STATE.

The coal city achiever Dear Editor, I lived in Enugu in the 1980s although I later joined the exodus of young people abroad for further schooling. Life was enjoyable. Clean environment, good roads and running water were available. Parks and recreational places like Presidential Hotel, Zodiac Hotel and Emporium Nightclub gave residents a flavour of Western living. The city was reputable for its vibrant youth culture. I remember rich traders from Onitsha trooping into town on weekends to go to parties and to stop at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) and the Enugu campus of the University of Nigeria to tickle their amorous senses with the lovely female students. Enugu was then the relaxation haven. However, occasions of my visits in the 1990s and later, were unfortunately disappointing. Enugu looked so dry like a town hit by a bad harmattan. One could smell wretchedness in the air. There was no electricity, no running water, the roads were broken up and nightlife was gone. Residents were afraid of incessant attacks by armed robbers. To my greatest displeasure, student-life that made the city fun had turned into sex for money affair. Most female students have to hustle to pay their school fees and meet up to their needs. In 2012, I had a chance to travel around many parts of the country. I was engaged by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in a project – Tuberculosis Prevalence Survey.

My return to Enugu was a pleasant surprise. I totally lost my bearings due to the changes. I was excited to visit the mega Shoprite Store at the site of the old Polo Park. Good roads with traffic lights that worked dotted everywhere. Modern shopping centres and state-of-the-art hotels and bars lined major roads and affluent areas. My outing at the outdoor Bush Bar was an out of body experience. I thought I was at Madison Square Garden in New York City with the big screens showing sporting and musical events. I pray you have been following my story this far. You must have observed that I have not mentioned any name associated with how this air of freshness blew into Enugu. The reason is simple. It is because the superficial consciousness never exists. The architect purposefully designed the city of his fantasy in silence. There was no need on his part for the vulgar posters smearing the look of many states with the face of their governor. Welcome to the space occupied by the new futuristic Secretariat Complex like a giant billboard. It raises one’s antenna up entering the city from the EnuguOnitsha Expressway. These are exemplary achievements of visionary leadership. The city is secured like a garden. We do not need to look far to search for our champions of democracy. Come to Enugu and experience the work of a patriot. Sullivan Chime defied negative expectation. PIUS OKANEME, UMUOJI, ANAMBRA STATE.

In 1972 in Abeokuta, the diviner said: “Yes, going to the Catholic seminary is your lot”, but there was a cloud in his eyes, so I asked him again, and he repeated, “Yes”. It turned out that the “Yes” meant 15 years of successful Catholic priesthood, while the cloudy looks meant that after that I would quit, and everything happened as prophesied by Ifa Orunmila (the Yoruba oracular divinity). If Boko Haram is still sacking some villages and engaging the Nigerian Army, it means that the prophecy of Orunmila delivered in December 2011 has not been disproved that the insurgents shall not be defeated by force of arms, but dialogue and reconciliation. Count the losses, December 2011 till date, even since the current President, Muhammadu Buhari took over on May 29, 2015 (more than eight months ago); count the losses in human lives and property. Boko Haram cannot reach Aso Rock (Nigeria’s seat of power), and is attacking innocent people, but only God knows what the future holds. Terrorists bombed unexpected targets in America and France. Nigeria’s rulers are dodging dialogue with Boko Haram by promising to defeat Boko Haram in six months (December 2011), then three months (May 2015), and then in four months (June 2015), and now, no definite timeline for defeating Boko Haram, meaning indefinite fire on Nigeria’s roof. They “degraded”; not “defeated Boko Haram”. PIUS ABIOJE, UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO BE HEARD! SEND YOUR LETTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHS TO THESUNDAYLETTERS@ GMAIL.COM. LETTERS SHOULD NOT BE MORE THAN 200 WORDS AND MUST HAVE THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE SENDER

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

Execut ve

My family is everything I’ve got – Akintoye Branco-Rhodes

For the benefit of those meeting you for the first time, could you share with us, a brief history of your family background? I was born in 1963, in Lagos to the Catholic Christian family of the late Chief and late (Mrs.) Yinka Rhodes, Baamofin of Lagos and Iyalode of Lagos respectively. I am the fourth child out of six children of my parents. We had good and memorable upbringing. My parents were lovely people. I was baptised and raised in the Catholic Church but in 1991, I was converted to Pentecostalism and embarked on missionary work in England. Between 1991 and 1992, I assisted Rev John Bienose to establish Church of God Mission Inc founded by late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, in London. I took over as Church administrator when the presiding Pastor John Bienose returned to the Benin headquarters of the church. From 1993 till 2003, I served in various leadership capacities in ministries such as Archbishop VIN in Memorial Church GRA, Ikeja and Christian Ministry of Reconciliation. Currently, I’m with Christ Chapel International Church, where I was ordained as a minister of the gospel in 2005. I became Vice-Chairman of Capital Stewardship, the building project of the Lekki Lighthouse Centre of the Church and Associate pastor of the Lekki Centre in 2006. I’m a member of Christian Men’s Network, Kingdom Men. I Co-founded, Rhodes Foundation, an outreach to widows and the poor. Where did you start your academic pursuit? I started my primary school education with Maryland Convent Private School, Maryland, Ikeja between I968 and 1975. By 1981, I finished my secondary school at the Baptist Academy Secondary School, Shepherd Hill, Ikorodu Road. Then, between 1982 and 1983, I attended American College of Switzerland, Leysin, Switzerland and in 1984, I moved to Barrington College Barrington, Rhode Island, USA. And finally, between 1984 and 1986, I attended University of Rhode Island, where I had an Unconcluded BA Econs Degree How did you journey through your career to where you are now? I started my early life like every other person but in 1986, I joined the family business, Rosabol Marble and Granite as Deputy Managing Director in charge of Marketing and Client Services. In 1988, I formed Executive Essentials, a procurement company serving large corporations including Société General Bank of Nigeria and Intercontinental Bank. In 1995, I co-founded Ziklag Limited, a company specialising in construction finishes and oil and gas related concerns. By 1996, I got an award of a N67 million contract for the remodelling of a luxury housing project in Aso Drive Abuja and subsequently handled similar projects in different states in Nigeria. I facilitated the award of a $2 million contract for the feasibility studies of Nigerian Gas Pipeline by NNPC in favour of Messrs PLE GMBH, a German pipeline engineering company. In 1999, I opened a showroom and factories at its current Head office for two of its subsidiaries, Ziklag Marble & Granite ZMG and Plastakraft for the supply and installation of high quality building finishes. I executed several projects around the country. Notable amongst them was a Mausoleum for King William Jumbo of Kalabari Kingdom in Bonny Island, Rivers State. In 2001, in Cape Town, South Africa, I entered into an MoU with Protea Hospitality Corp (Pty) for the development of a 500 key 5-star hotel and a 150-key apartment hotel on the Yard 158 Estate. I successfully raised N700 million ($5.5m) towards the bid as part of the consortium in the African Properties' bid for the acquisition of the 51

Akintoye Branco-Rhodes is the Chairman, Managing Director, Ziklag Group of Companies and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and aspirant under PDP in the last governorship election in Lagos State. He is married to the renowned politician and elder statesman, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite’s daughter. He spoke to CHIJIOKE IREMEKA on his early life struggles and achievements

per cent controlling shares of Nicon Hilton Hotel through BPE as part of Ziklag's agreed $13m stake. As at 2005, I was awarded a N45 million contract for the supply of 13,000m2 of Granite tiles to the ITB luxury Towers in Banana Island, Ikoyi Lagos. By 2007, in line with Ziklag's strategic refocus to become a key player in the need housing sector of the Nigerian economy, Ziklag repositioned itself as a Private Sector Partner in State Public Private Partnerships (PPP) for the development of mass units of affordable housing stock, made proposals to 13 state governments including Enugu (Golf City Resort), Ogun (Gateway Paradise City), Lagos (First World Communities C.H.O.I.S. Estate and Badagry New Town) Then, between 2007 and 2009, I was appointed Chairman, Eri Eco International Limited, specialists in developing regional master plans for state governments to project the physical and fiscal developmental blueprint across all sectors of the state economy - health, education, transportation, tourism etc. Sequel to this, I entered into a franchise agreement with a leading mass housing provider, Messrs Mooreliving Building Systems for fast build construction technology. Ziklag currently owns the Master License for Nigeria. In conjunction with Italian technical partners, Messrs Studio Marcello, Italy, I conducted a reconnaissance study on some disused Federal Government dams (Ikere Gorge Dam, Oyan Dam and Jibya Dam) for exploitation of power. Bankable reports were generated and submitted to BPE together with an expression of interest EOI for 30-year concessions on the dams and are still awaiting approval. You have been in political and corporate corridors for long, what would you consider your major achievements? Well, to be brief, between 1982 and 1983, I became the Leader, Youth Wing of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and by 1994 I formed Association of Citizens for Selfless Service. I joined Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) with some members of AC for S at the start of the Abacha

Transition between 1996 and 1997. I was elected State Chairman Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) Lagos Branch. At age 34, I was the youngest man ever in the political history of Nigeria to hold such a post. At a time, when the Abacha transition was being shunned and which some political parties described as “the five fingers of a leprous hand,” and people were urged by the late Bola Ige to adopt a “siddon and look” posture. I encouraged the polity to participate in it in order to give it credibility both within and outside Nigeria. I was among the discussants at the programme. This included Rev Fr. Slattery, late Chuba Okadigbo, NADECO chieftains and Pa Abraham Adesanya. The event produced a presidential challenger to Abacha in the person of Elder Statesman Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, my father-in-law. I led the party to heights hitherto unknown in the political landscape. I initiated several people-oriented programmes in spite of not seeking elective office at the time. I started GDM Bulk Purchase Programme, known as GDM rice and GDM sugar. This scheme sought to reduce economic hardship at the grassroots by delivering these commodities at controlled prices to the masses. I led all South West delegates and resisted the fraudulent imposition of former dictator, Abacha as sole presidential candidate of the party at the convention. In 1998, I resigned and formed the Democratic Advance Movement (DAM) with some political associates. The DAM was later prescribed in 2002 and together with some political associates formed the New Nigeria Advance Party (NAP). In 2003, I contested the gubernatorial elections in Lagos State on the platform of Nigeria Advance Party (NAP). From 2003 I became a political analyst and commentator on national issues. With your involvement in these, do you still find time to be with your wife and family? Of course, my family is everything, I have got. I like them and I make out time to go out with them, especially my wife. My fam-

ily is important to me. How did you meet your wife? I met my wife in a normal way a man finds a wife. I prayed and asked God to lead my through, which He did. My marriage is very sweet and interesting. I got married in 1989 to my heartthrob, Laolu Braithwaite, the daughter of a renowned politician, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite. My marriage is blessed with children and a grandchild. What are your hobbies? I fear God and like preaching salvation message; I also like going to the house of God. What are your recreational activities? I play golf, though I'm still trying to master the art well. Do you like jewellery? I wear my wedding ring. Your dress sense is like what? I like traditional wears with cap but I dress to suit the occasion. What is next for PDP in Lagos State? We have not ended our quest to govern Lagos; we believe that 2019 is another electioneering year, which we will prepare ourselves for. We still believe that PDP will impact positively in this state and the country at large and that is why we are seeking the opportunity to impact on people. We have started a movement to emancipate Lagos from the shackles of APC. The early challenge in the emancipation of Lagos is to free Lagos from the APC and reposition the state to harness its resources for the collective benefits of Nigeria. This is the task that must be carried out and one government cannot accomplish it alone. If you look at the Lagos, there are many infrastructural deficiencies for it to attain the status of a mega city. The status of mega city has many infrastructural demands and like I said, one government, a single tenure, or two tenures, cannot fully achieve that. It’s a continuous process that would allow us see the kind of Lagos we desire.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

NEWS

Ebonyi plans free Medicare for aged Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

bonyi State government is set to enact a law that will make it responsible for the medical care of the aged people within the age of 80 and above in the state. Governor David Umahi disclosed this during a service of songs in the honor of his late mother, Mrs. Margaret Umahi held at the Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre Abakaliki. “We want to propose a bill to the state House of Assembly on how to take charge of the medical care of our aged ones from the age of 80 and above. Immediately after this event, we are sending a bill to the House of Assembly to make it compulsory that Ebonyi State Government will henceforth, take partial responsibility of the medical care of these ones.” Umahi described the allegation that he stopped payment of pensions as untrue and reiterated that refusal to pay pensioners between 15th and 20th every month

is a punishable offense in the state. “When I was coming here, somebody sent me a text and alleged that I stopped paying the pensions of our aged ones. I want to state clearly that I never did that. I still want to restate my earlier stand that all pensioners must be paid between 15th and 20th of every month and failure to do that is punishable”. He described his late mother as a mediator who mediated for the family in their relationships with God and man, adding that her demise was still like a dream to him. But he was happy that she died a fulfilled woman. The Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu in his speech described late Deaconess Umahi as a disciplinarian whose legacies and hard work will continue to be a remarkable history for the mortals. Ekweremadu lauded the developmental efforts of Governor Umahi and urged him to sustain the tempo in remembrance of his late mother.

Gunmen abduct 68 year old lawmaker’s mum Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

eavily armed men have kidnapped one Mrs. Abibat Adjoto, the 68-year old mother of the All Progressives Congress member representing Ekoko Edo Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto. Mrs. Adjoto was abducted from her house at Ikakumo village in hilly town of Akoko-Edo council of the state. The gunmen also made away with one of the woman’s adopted sons whose name could not be ascertained as at the time of filing this report. Hon. Adjoto is a three-time member of the State House of Assembly. It was gathered that the kidnappers had stormed the

victim’s Ikakumo home at about 1am on Thursday and shot sporadically for about two hours apparently to scare the villagers at which point they took her away to an unknown direction. Hon. Adjoto, when contacted yesterday on phone refused comment on the abduction. A family member who pleaded anonymity said the kidnappers beat their victims before they forcefully took them away in their vehicle. The source said: “They came to our village and started shooting. They took mama away and one of her sons.” The family members of the victim as at yesterday’s evening were yet to establish contact with the kidnappers for possible payment of ransom.

UITH doctors suspend strike Biodun Oyeleye ILORIN

esident Doctors with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) have called off their two weeks’ strike following an agreement between the union and the management of the institution. The development according to a statement by Head of Public Relations Officer of UITH, Mrs Olufunmilayo Omojasola, followed an agreement between the doctors and management on some of the key issues that

led to the strike. Omojasola stated that the doctors resolved to defend their ‘Hippocratic Oath’ by saving lives rather than shunning duties just as the management has decided to critically review some of the issues that prompted the strike. “The management team led by the Chief Medical Director of the UITH, Professor Abdulwaheed Olatinwo and the president of the local chapter of the ARD, Dr Adegboyega Faponle reached an agreement which led to the calling off of the few days old strike,” she said.

Owerri Mall takes off with 2000 direct jobs Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

n ultramodern shopping complex powered by Resilient Africa has been commissioned in Owerri, the Imo State capital. Owerri Mall, as it is called, comes with attendant economic dividend chief of which is the creation of over 2000 direct employments in the state. With breathtaking discount sales, thousands of Imo residents thronged the Owerri Mall which houses a Shoprite outlet and 44 other consumer goods shops, to do ‘convenient shopping’ at rock-bottom prices. The Shoprite outlet at Owerri Mall is the third in the South-East with others at Enugu and Onitsha. For most families and residents operating on very tight budgets, the opening of Owerri Mall and berthing of Shoprite, the South African consumer goods

giant which has taken up vast space at the Owerri Mall has become a burst of fresh air for many resident of the heartland city of Owerri. Beyond discounts, the Centre Manager, Bayo Anifowoshe noted that the establishment of Owerri Mall has created 2000 direct employments with massive financial inflow into the Imo economy. Anifowoshe also stressed that the Owerri Mall management is not unaware of their corporate social responsibilities to the state and particularly their host community. To this end the company has since commenced the de-flooding of the flood-prone area with the construction massive drainages and channeling of flood to a dedicated receptacle. The company has also constructed a network of new roads around the facility to stem possible traffic

congestion that may arise and affect ease of shopping at the mall. In his word Anifowoshe said: “We have built a world class property, equipped with all safety gadgets to physically and electronically keep the facility secure round the clock. Most importantly, the Owerri Mall was conceived, designed and constructed to give result and satisfaction to all stakeholders, government and investors alike.” Jason Buhr, Managing Director of Resilient Africa, a South African property developer which have built all Shoprite structures in Nigeria, said that while they need owners of Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies to occupy all the outlets at the mall, and beside the direct employment that hundreds of suppliers and other service providers from cleaning to maintenance would have great opportunities at

the mall. For the 45 outfits occupying the mall outlets, Buhr said: “Our primary objective is to promote business owners in the state from informal market and convince them that there is profit to be made in formal markets as will be easily evident at the Owerri Mall in the days ahead.” The mall is operated by Somachi Investment Limited, a company owned by Herbert Chikwe, chairman of Owerri Mall Development Company, which provided the land and other partners which include Terrestria group, Median group and Tidlock group. Delivering his speech at the opening of the Mall, Governor Rochas Okorocha stated that his government has opened its arms to welcome investors to the state and enjoined all Imo citizens, irrespective of political divides to come and invest in the state

Excited patrons with shoppers’ baskets on their heads at the new Shoprite in Owerri, Imo State.... Saturday

NCC to initiate measures to tackle internal corrupt practices Clem Khena-Ogbena ABUJA

s part of efforts to build the culture of integrity and accountability within its own operational system, the Nigerian Communications Commission ( NCC ), has indicated its willingness to initiate measures aimed at preventing internal corrupt practices among its staff. The Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, gave the indication when the AntiCorruption Academy of Nigeria, a training arm

of the Independent Corrupt Practices of Nigeria and other-related Offences Commission (ICPC), paid a courtesy call on the NCC boss in Abuja. Danbatta remarked that corruption had remained endemic and a menace in all areas of the Nigerian society and, therefore, it required proactive measures to tackle it, adding that there was need to build measures and processes which could permanently address the perennial menace even from the grassroots. Danbatta also informed the officials of the academy led by its provost, Prof. Sola

Akinrinade that NCC had a similar training school referred to as Digital Bridge Institute, where manpower with diverse needs of communication were trained, adding that both the AntiCorruption Academy of Nigeria and NCC had many things in common. While urging the academy to acquaint itself with all the laws and regulations of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of government as well as the Nigerian constitution in order to be able to fight corruption effectively, Danbatta assured that with the collaboration of the academy, NCC would

put some measures in place that would prevent or check corrupt activities within the commission. He also said the commission would engage the academy to train its staff in the areas under consideration, noting that corruption was an evil that must be wiped out, even in the entire telecoms sector of the country. Earlier, Prof. Akinrinade, had said he came to NCC to seek the collaboration and approval of Danbatta for the academy to train the management staff of the commission as part of its capacity building programme.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016

Kwankwaso/Ganduje’s festering row p.16

Sen. Dada: Why Emefiele, Adeosun should not resign p.17

The Sunday Interview

Boko Haram masquerading as Fulani herdsmen – Major Thomas p.18, 19

POLITICS

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

Company Limited

El-Rufai ‘s many controversies I

n size, Malam Nasir Ahmad El Rufai, the Kaduna State governor, is not a giant by all standards; rather, he is slightly built. However, behind his slim frame, genial look and simple appearance is an ironcast resolve and tenacity of purpose. He is focused, controversial and battle ready. He treads where angels dare and severally, El-Rufai has belled the cat in the last nine months as governor. Significantly, he likes stirring the hornet’s nest, catching the flak in the process. In particular, the All Progressives Congress (APC), El-Rufai’s ruling party, had accused the governor of insensitivity and anti people policies. Specifically, barely a month in office, El-Rufai had crossed swords with civil servants in his effort to ascertain the size of his workforce. On June 24, 2015, a verification exercise was flagged off, where all civil servants, irrespective of ranks, went through the authentication process. The aim, according to reports, was to fish out ghost workers, but in the end, several workers became ghosts in the figurative sense. Specifically, the workers were asked to produce their appointment letters, letters of last promotion and a valid driver’s license or international passport for proper identification. Particularly, the exercise took place at three centres in Zaria, Kaduna and Kafanchan towns. On Tuesday, June 12, 2015, a female suicide bomber had sneaked into the Zaria verification centre and detonated her deadly device, killing several workers in the process. However, the exercise was not suspended, in spite of the fatalities. Subsequently, Kaduna State government banned street begging and hawking, following the blast. The ban, according to El-Rufai, was a security measure aimed at protecting lives and property, but some people saw it differently. The ban, in their opinion, was imposed without legal backing as it was never deliberated at the State Executive Council or House of Assembly. Consequently, the order was greeted by a welter of reactions as some people commended it while others condemned the ban. However, the disabled protested against the order and resisted it in strong terms. On July 11, 2015, they stormed the Kaduna Press Centre of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, carrying placards and raining curses on El-Rufai. In addition, they addressed the press, where they issued two ultimatums to the governor. First, they asked him to apologise to them within three days for linking them to insurgency in the state. The beggars, in their hundreds, promised to sue for defamation of character if El-Rufai failed to apologise within the stipulated time. Secondly, that the governor should rescind the ban, within seven days, or provide them with alternative source of livelihoods. In addition, they vowed to continue begging until this condition is met, threatening to cast a spell on El-Rufai if he dared stop them. Last August, El-Rufai shifted focus elsewhere and this time, the administration

Since he became governor of Kaduna State on May 29, 2015, Malam Nasir El-Rufai has been taking on both the high and mighty in his bid to make the state great again, courting controversies in the process. IBRAHEEM MUSA looks at the issues in this report

El-Rufai

moved to reclaim public lands located within or around hospitals and schools. Before then, rumour was rife that the bulldozers were on their way. However, on August 2, 2015, the government clarified the matter as Mr. Samuel Aruwan, the govefnor’s Special Assistant on Media, addressed the press. The government, according to him, had given a three week quit notice to illegal squatters and that the ultimatum would expire the next day. Basically, the administration wanted to recover public lands, Mr. Aruwan had said, which were encroached upon by private individuals. The exercise, according to him, should not be misconstrued as demolition as ‘’we are only asking those who illegally occupied government land to vacate the land.’’ However, in spite of this positive spin, the recovery exercise was actually a demolition exercise and the bulldozers pulled down buildings in and around Alhudahuda College on August 5. Specifically, about 500 houses located at Kofar Doka, outside the school, were demolished and this action, according to reports, displaced about 10,000 people. Tears, abuses and lamentations trailed the exercise as the victims couldn’t dare the armed soldiers that escorted the bulldozers. In addition, criticisms and law suits

Oritserjafor

followed the demolition as both the victims and government officials traded blames. The government, on its part, had described the victims as illegal squatters who had no valid documents. The victims, on the other hand, bandied several documents issued by local authorities as against the state government’s claims. In law, government’s action was right but the administration stood condemned in the court of public opinion. Significantly, the uproar and condemnations that greeted the exercise bore some fruits. In particular, the shops along Constitution Road, which share the same fence with some primary schools, were spared despite their being marked for demolition. However, reports indicate that the government, owing to a court injunction, was stopped from pulling down the high rise buildings. Similarly, the houses within Rimi College were spared, so were the edifices along College Road. In fact, the property owners within Rimi College were compensated and alternative plots, according to reports, will be given to them. The landlords, government argued , had acquired their land legally as previous governments are to blame for giving them carve outs. However, this explanation did not sink well with critics as they accused El-Rufai of selective justice.

Last week, hundreds of protesters came out en mass, carrying various placards, kicking against the planned demolition of over 3000 houses at Gbagy Villa. The protesters comprising landlords, tenants and their children had faulted the conflicting reasons given by the authorities to justify the demolition. According to them, Kaduna State Urban Planning Development Authority (KASUPDA} had cited alleged non-possession of planning permission in their demolition notice but the DirectorGeneral of Lands said that they had encroached on Kaduna Polytechnic land . Similarly, they described the planned exercise as inconsistent with the laws of the land and insensitive to plights of community members. According to Mr. Chris Obodumu, the Chairman of land owners within the disputed land , “ Section 16, Sub-section 2(d) of 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended, provides that the state shall directs its policy towards, among other things, ensuring that suitable and adequate shelter are provided for all citizens “. In addition, he pointed out that even the United Nations recognises the provision of shelter as part of the irreducible minimum of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

POLITICS

Kwankwaso/Ganduje’s festering row Muhammad Kabir KANO

rom all indications, the feud between Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State and his predecessor Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso is one that will not disappear very soon. Despite a reconciliation brokered by six governors from the North-West at the instance of President Muhammadu Buhari, it seems the row still festers because of some schemes and underground moves typical of Nigerian politicians. At every stage of the reconciliatory moves, fresh angles to the crises kept coming up with either the camp of Ganduje doing something that openly negates conciliatory moves or Kwankwaso’s camp making remarks that are against the government of Ganduje. First in this area was the statement made by Ganduje when the crisis was at its fledgling state when the governor said at Dakata Bella Road that anybody who stands the ways of Buhari Presidency should be dealt with decisively. Apparently referring to Kwankwaso, he said that they were aware of how construction works were handled in the state where very few were indeed genuine while others were bogus. Shortly after making these remarks, Ganduje said whatever exists between him and Kwankwaso that was perceived as misunderstanding would be resolved amicably and that already moves towards peace were ongoing. Alas, as Ganduje was making those remarks, a statement was issued in Abuja with the full consent of Kwankwaso and signed by his former Commissioner of Water resources, Dr. Yunusa Dangwani accusing Ganduje of trying to polarise the party and cause disunity among supporters. A day after that statement was issued, Ganduje was at the Presidential Villa where he was reported to have taken his case to President Buhari, seeking his intervention, and he even addressed the media assuring that soon thing would be alright between him and Kwankwaso. But, surprisingly as he was making the statement to the media, in Kano, a subterranean move was going on among his loyalists, including the 36 House of Assembly members, National Assembly lawmakers, local government chairmen and party stakeholders presenting a brand new chairman of the party who is perceived to be arch rival of Kwankwaso in the state, Abdullahi Abbas Sunusi after suspending the chairman loyal to Kwankwaso, Umar Haruna Doguwa. These and many other things did not stop the North-West governors from putting the reconciliation moves on a hold

Ganduje

Kwankwaso

as they still went ahead to perfect it. And in clear violations of the reconciliation the day it was made, a full page advert was issued by the Kwankwaso group taking Ganduje to the cleaners, even threatening to hold him responsible for a statement he allegedly made against the security and life of Kwankwaso at Dakata Bella Road. The document which was signed by Aminu Abdussalam, a former State Affairs Commissioner in Kwankwaso’s government was full of bashing against Ganduje. But as if the Ganduje was ready for this, the new Chairman of APC and a die-hard loyalist of Ganduje, Sunusi was introduced at the party national secretariat where Governor Ganduje was still present as the party leader in Kano. But a few minutes after those moves, some 12 National Assembly members from Kano including Nuhu Danburam and Sani Madakin Gini came out to denounce the

statement describing Ganduje as the party leader. They said at a press briefing in Abuja that the duo of Kwankwaso and Ganduje are the party leaders in Kano. This fresh move clearly shows that despite all efforts, all is not well with the reconciliation as between Ganduje and Kwankwaso, and that still there is a serious vacuum to be filled. An analyst in political circles in Kano, Sani Sani, queried that is it possible to have a governor and still have another as party leader. Sani said that when Kwankwaso was governor of Kano, he was the party leader and no senator, not even Kabiru Gaya, a party loyalist and former governor of the state even a leader to Kwankwaso had ever nurtured the idea of being a party leader. He said it was therefore puzzling that Kwankwaso is entertaining that now.

El-Rufai ‘s many controversies C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 5

fundamental duty of every government to its citizens. ‘’We have provided shelters for ourselves and families, it is therefore unconscionable, immoral and constitutionally indefensible for any government, especially one that rode to power on the crest of poor welfare delivery by past governments, to plan to demolish a place like Gbagyi Villa where citizens have built over 3,000 houses.” Right now, the matter is in court. As if that is not enough, El- Rufai has now locked horns with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC). Last week, the government had announced the third and final round of verification exercise but this time with a difference. Workers, according to reports, are now being asked whether or not they wished to join the NLC and for this reason, organised labour is baying for blood. In particular, they accused El-Rufai of straying into their domain and they promised to mobilise Nigerian workers against him if he continues. Last Wednesday, all of NLC’s top hats converged on Kaduna to protest the decision to make the membership of the labour union optional. Point blank, Comrade Ayuba Waba, the NLC president, gave El Rufai a seven-day ultimatum to rescind what he described as anti-workers policies or workers will shut down the entire country in solidarity with Kaduna civil servants. Addressing the placard carrying crowd, Waba said that El-Rufai was playing god with Kaduna State workers and had shown no empathy towards them, especially over

the various tragedies that had befallen them the various verification exercises. According to him, Kaduna workers have cooperated fully with the government since the exercise began last June. ‘’That same month, 29 of our members were killed in a bomb attack somewhere in Zaria and several were injured. I heard that close to 50 of our members have died from various reasons during these exercises. Yet, neither the state governor nor any of his aides has visited any family of the victims,’’ Waba pointed out. “The worse is that though not a kobo has been paid to any of the affected families, their names have been removed from the pay roll and grouped among ghost workers. Their families are living in very beggarly conditions and we kick against such inhumanity to those who laid down their lives in the course of duty,” the NLC president added. As if that is not enough, right now, Islamic clerics and Christian clergy are poising for their own battle over a bill which seeks to regulate preaching in the state, is currently before the House of Assembly. The bill makes the acquisition of a renewable license for evangelism very mandatory and violators are liable to terms of imprisonment and or fine. The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria has warned that the bill has latent explosive heat that can set Kaduna State on fire. Also representatives of over one thousand churches within Kaduna metropolis and environs have vowed to do everything legal to ensure that the rights of Christians were not curtailed in the state. The resolve of the churches is coming on the heels of

the Religious Bill which the state government explained is geared towards regulating Christianity and Islam, as it seeks to create an inter-faith Ministerial Committee to be appointed by the governor and exercise control over Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN). But the PFN and other groups have kicked against bill, describing it as anti-Christian. The chairman of the PFN, Kaduna State chapter, Reverend Femi Ehinmidu said it was improper for the government to embark on restricting and regulating religious activities while neglecting other pressing issues. “It is unimaginable to see our erudite governor exhuming a military era edit which came into being when the Constitution was suspended. It smacks of mischief,” he said. He expressed opposition to the bill in its entirety, stating that PFN “shall do everything legal to ensure that our rights as Christians are not curtailed,” and called on wellmeaning Nigerians and relevant stakeholders to prevail on the government in the state to withdraw what he described as the vexing bill before the State House of Assembly. But it is a fact that El-Rufai is no strangers to controversies. As Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, he demolished thousands of houses and shanties in Abuja in a bid to ensure compliance with the Abuja master plan. The action rendered many people homeless, even as he failed to bat an eyelid. From all indications, El-Rufai, like the fabled Mars, the Roman god of war, seems to relish perpetual warring on all fronts. And so far, he has largely triumphed. But for how long that will continue remains to be seen.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016

Sen. Dada: Why Emefiele, Adeosun should not resign The Senate recently approved the decision of the House of Representatives that the National Assembly should take over the legislative functions of the Kogi State House of Assembly, pending the resolution of the current crisis there. What is your take on this? You remember that Senator Dino Melaye said that it was a determined case, in the sense that the impeachment has been voided by the position taken by the House of Representatives as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. But in this kind of situation, somebody must be in control. Some members of the House felt it was unnecessary, some said it is a way to douse tension and return normalcy to the state before the speaker is reinstated. I think what happened in Kogi State did not follow the rule of law and Nigeria as a nation has gone beyond flagrant disobedience for law.

POLITICS

Senator Gbolahan Dada represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the National Assembly. In this interview with CHUKWU DAVID, he speaks on a number of burning issues in the polity, blaming the nation’s current economic woes on indiscipline and lawlessness amongst Nigerians there will be no nee importing anymore. A typical example is Aliko Dangote. He was given licenses to bring cement along other companies but he was the only one among them that continued to put infrastructure on ground. Now nobody can import cement to beat him. Unfortunately, we give licenses to traders who import goods and send the money to other countries. We must encourage people who will want to invest here, and that is the way forward. But the Nigerian is very lazy, when I say lazy I don’t mean that we are not intellectually sound, it is just that we want the easy way out of things and we spend the money on things that are not beneficial. That is indiscipline. For instance, if someone sets up a factory to assemble computer, telephone or television; if care is not taken, 70 per cent of the products will be rejected because people cannot sit down without talking and in the process; they mess up the whole thing. It is a serious issue. Look at the way Asians run their factories; they keep quiet while working, so it is a cultural issue that must be tackled. If an investor wants to invest in Nigeria and they look at the labour turnover, the level of discipline of staff and other things, they would run away.

At the passage of the budget on Wednesday, Nigerians were told there are still issues with the budget. Are you not concerned that this will affect its implementation? This is becoming like a joke. For me the way we run the nation is not the best because governance is a collective responsibility. There should not be any dissenting voices among the three arms of government because the whole purpose of government is to promote, protect and improve on the welfare of the people. The presidency and the whole executive arm of government want to do things right, so also the legislature. The Appropriations Committee only made a frank observation that there are some issues in the budget that need to be addressed so that there won’t be any hiccups during implementation. This does not mean that the budget cannot be implemented. So, let’s stop heating up the system and support this government to serve Nigerians. There is no perfection in anything on earth. So, if there are some problems in the budget, it will be addressed with time. Remember that people had insinuated that the budget was being delayed because the Senate was using it to buy time, but I don’t think the delay in the passage of the budget was because Senator Bukola Saraki was using it to buy time. We all interpret information or happenings differently. He is not the one that is responsible for the padding of the budget, the job of the Senate is to pass the budget when it is presented, and the National Assembly has just done that. Is it not better for us to critically scrutnise it than to just pass it and discover there are lots of problems? People outside who are not at the helm of affairs think we are playing with the budget but it is obvious that we never played with the budget because if we play with it, it means we are toiling with the lives of Nigerians.

the petroleum product. Again, as long as the consumption pattern is driven by heavy importation system, there will be pressure on the foreign reserves, thereby, putting pressure on consumption, and that is one factor that drives inflation. If we were a country that exports massively, definitely it will develop and goods will become cheaper but in Nigeria we export nothing apart from petroleum products.

We are told that the current inflation rate in the country is 11.4 per cent; are you not worried that this is on the high side? That is an assumption. We do not have statistics. This is a country where there is no database that can point in the direction of economic development. All our agencies do not carry out adequate research on the economic situation, they only forecast based on certain factors. If inflation is growing at 11 per cent, we will see it in the market forces, in terms of prices and I think if the inflation is 11.4 percent as reported, it is not too much for a country like Nigeria because our economy is being controlled by one product,

Government has been laying emphasis on banning importation of certain foods into the country. How is this going to help in tackling our economic problems? Unfortunately, we live in a country where things have gone wrong for a long time. We do not obey laid down rules and we do not follow government policies. In other countries, when goods are banned for instance, the agencies responsible ensure that such goods are not smuggled into the country. But in Nigeria, it is when goods are banned that they are transported more into the country; that is when it becomes business. The truth is that before we transit from

Dada

a mono product economy to a diversified economy, it will take a while because of the issue of quality, control issues and others. For us to move forward, Nigeria must define the kind of economy it wants. Is ours a technologically driven economy? It is not. Is it an agro-based economy? It is not. Ours is just a petroleum economy and in petroleum economy, we can employ only one per cent of the population. Therefore, there should be a change of mindset and we must have a blueprint. If we go into agric, which is bigger, and mining, because the price of gold is now higher than the price of crude oil things will get better. So we have to get it right, we have to sit down and get proper master plan for our agro- based industry. I am not saying importation should be banned completely. For instance, rice companies in the country should be encouraged to grow rice locally and if they must import, the import condition should be that any money made should be plunge into development of farmlands up to a point where we will so develop rice farming in the country and

Should the Ministers of Finance, Budget and CBN governor resign as a result of the worrisome state of the economy, especially the controversies that trailed the 2016 budget? This past four years have been a trying a period for us and the last regime lacked a level of discipline making the new government to inherit all these inadequacies. To turn a desert into sea requires a lot of work. So I feel this regime is trying to get it right and Nigerians should be patient as well. Every sector in the country has collapsed. Water resources and agriculture are not there. Calling for resignation of the Minister of Finance is not the issue because she is a brilliant mind. She can only perform well on the basis of information available to her. As a minister, the infrastructure you meet, the support staff, all have to work with you to achieve success but where the support staff and minister are working in different directions, there would be problem. Some of the support staff may not be used to change. If they want something done in a particular way and the minister wants change, there would be conflict. The minister of finance is doing well because she has introduced some technologies to check excesses but Nigerians do not like technology because it will eliminate a lot of human interferences. There is no law that can change Nigeria except Nigeria is ready to change. So our mindset must change; let us love this country, right now everybody has his interest in this project called Nigeria. We must run this country with one common goal, which is the Nigerian goal and we must do things right. There is no other way. If we all do the right thing, we will succeed. When I hear people say that the President must stop probing people, I just ask myself, what type of nation is this; when people misappropriate billions? This doesn’t make sense to me.

The Sunday Interview

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Boko Haram masquerading as Fulani herdsmen – Major Thomas Major Komo Maryam Thomas, is an officer of the Nigeria Army Medical Corps in this interview with ONWUKA NZESHI, speaks on the activities of Boko Haram in the North-East, the humanitarian crisis that has left millions displaced as well as the rise of the armed herdsmen. Komo postulates that while the Nigeria Armed Forces may have technically defeated the insurgents, the ideology and mission of the Islamist Jihadists would continue to stare Nigeria in the face like a hatchet buried in the soil but it’s handle remains above the ground

What is your assessment of the performance of the military in the fight against Boko Haram since the Muhammadu Buhari administration took over? Well, fortunately for me, I am not only an assessor, I am from the North-East and to be precise, I am from Gombe State. I would say that the insurgency in the North-East has embarrassed us a lot and we just thank God that succour is coming our way nine months into this new administration. We want to say thank you to the personnel of the Armed Forces because of the enormous sacrifice they have made for peace to return to the region. We must not forget that the displaced people did not just come from the blues. They are our own people, so they cannot be isolated from us. They are our brothers; they are our sisters and one way or another, they are affiliated to us. We want to say thank you to our gallant soldiers and we want them to equally appreciate the citizenry of Nigeria some of whom do not even know the issues that have led us to this insecurity. The issue of Boko Haram is a war situation. We do know that no war was formally declared but we know that everything that is contained in a war is what we have seen so far. We have seen tenacity; we have seen commitment and we have seen the ability of the armed forces to defend us. That is why our soldiers are there at the front-lines and in the nooks and crannies of the region to defend our fatherland. If not for their intervention, you and I would not be sitting down to discuss what is happening in that place. I think that the government has done very well because of the doggedness and transparency that has been brought into the fight in recent months. Our troops know the issues and they have gone behind these issues to ensure that these terrorists don’t cause us further embarrassment. Do you believe that Nigeria has technically defeated Boko Haram or degraded them as the Federal Government would want everyone to believe? Well, whether technical defeat or not, what I can say is that we should not go back to sleep. I think that in a war situation like this, the enemy would always want to break your line of defence if you go to sleep. We have made tremendous progress; we have made good advances and I think that very soon, the Armed Forces of the world would begin to

Thomas

re- write their books on strategies and tactical manouvres in the war against insurgency and terror. The truth is that we have been able to hold our head above waters but typical of enemies, they will not take defeat and they are not taking the defeat lightly. Of course, we too have to hold our own. How are we going to hold our own? The North-East region is a large area so you must put a commensurate number of men to hold the ground and consolidate on the success. If you don’t hold the ground, the enemy could take it from you. Look at the example of Dolori where the terrorists overran the community after it had been liberated by our troops. Remember one of the strategies of war is that you need to tactically, emotionally or psychologically defeat your enemy. These terrorists might not be much in number again but what they will now do is to instill fear in the minds of the people in the local communities. So you must pursue them to a level that they will no longer have the confidence to stage a comeback. Some of us have advocated for persistent and sustained air power and surveillance because if there is activity behind you or in front of you and you cannot detect it with the radar or whatever technological device you might be using, you use the air. For example, from air surveillance you can tell that there is an activity at about 700 meters from your location. So, with

that you will now know that people might come to attack you from the north, south or east and this will enable you to be prepared. You will know the communities around the area and you will go and protect them. I think the military should not be overtaken by the successes they have recorded because the enemies are still breaking our line of defence and they will continue to do so if we don’t re-strategise. I am thinking in my myopic imagination, that we all have retirees from the Army, Navy and Air Force in our various zones. Everybody should go and re- kit and remain on the alert. We cannot give our country up to evil because this is a mass evil that is not ready to go. Are you advocating that our legion of ex- servicemen be recalled and drafted to continue the war? Yes. There is a code in the Armed Forces that talks about reserves. Though, I might not be an authority on this but this time around, we want practicality. Military retirees, no matter their age can be of help to us in these trying times. They have passed through some of these situations in the course of their service and the young soldiers can benefit from their wealth of experience. The training that they got while in active service is still within him. Don’t forget that some of these people were commanders in places like Lake Chad. These are Nigeria Army officers who have retired but they know these things on the ground. When they put a map on the ground, they know what advances we are

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016

supposed to make. Let me tell you, one of the pioneers of such wars was the same PMB ( President Muhammadu Buhari) who led the Third Armoured Division of the Nigeria Army, Jos to advance and drove away these same people who had the same vision and intention like the Boko Haram. He made sure that they were driven towards the same Sambisa enclave and they retreated and that was it. We never heard of them again. I think we should not be overwhelmed with the successes so far recorded in this fight, we must take every prudent and serious tactical corrections on what we need to do at this time, so that there will be no resurgence. By the time they stop breaking our defence lines, then we will be talking of real success. What other measures do you think Nigeria should take on this insurgency at this time? Some of these people are already living among us, so we have to strengthen our institutions like the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to sensitise the populace about the dangers of terrorism and insurgency. We need to come up with all kinds of innovative messages to teach our people how to be security conscious. Our people must know that under the situation we have found ourselves, when you are boarding a vehicle, everybody should suspect one another. People should be searched before they board vehicles at motor parks. We should have to right to say: ‘Abeg open your bag,’ without anybody slapping the other person. We must put those little security measures in place. We must find out how we carry our children to school and we must not downplay the security in the schools because of these cases of abduction of pupils. What do you make of the recent efforts by some state governments to rebuild some of the communities that were destroyed by the Boko Haram and reports that even the areas under reconstruction are being attacked again by Boko Haram? I think it is too early to embark on rebuilding the communities destroyed by Boko Haram except if some people have something to hide. I see it as an infringement on the rights of the local people. Have they consulted all the stakeholders? With due respects, if they do not have anything to hide, they should make the process of rebuilding the region transparent. All stakeholders including the traditional rulers, religious leaders, elder statesmen, retired military officers and the displaced people themselves should be involved in the process. They keep telling us that security is everybody’s business; they should demonstrate this inclusiveness in practical terms. There are fears that these communities are not yet safe for habitation. Is that part of your reason for kicking against rebuilding and sending the people back to their communities? Exactly. I do not think it is ripe. There is this number the security agencies gave out - 112. The line is meant to enable you and I collaborate with them on security but by the time you try it you will be surprised what you will hear. I called that number at 2.00 am one day and I was speaking to somebody. I gave him my names but of course I didn’t tell him my rank. I told him, there is a school in a particular area; the authorities there told me they were seeing torch lights and strange movement of people around their vicinity that night. The voice at the other end of the line kept asking me where the place is. Where is the place exactly? I described the place several times but he kept asking where exactly, where exactly and he didn’t do anything at the end of the day. When I realised he wasn’t prepared to take action, I called the principal of the school and told him to gather the students at the place where they do their sports and let them be singing loudly maybe that would scare away those trying to attack them. I had no other remedy to put on the table. This is

The Sunday Interview The so-called herdsmen now bear arms. Who are their sponsors? Look at the mess that is happening in Benue State. There are sponsors of these Boko Haram. They told us this many years ago. They have sponsors. Let us know them. Let the Nigerian people take a decision on what they want to do about them why I would say everybody is a stakeholder in security matters. We must all be vigilante but how do we ensure the safety of those who give information to security agencies? You know that if the terrorists get to know who gave out information about their activities, they may go and kidnap such a person or kill every other person in the place. What is the situation at the IDP camps in the North-East today? The situation in the IDP camps is difficult but very simple. If you go to the IDP camps, you will hear the people saying they want their towns secured; they are not yet talking about rehabilitation. It is not enough to hold news conferences and begin to talk about rebuilding the North-East. It’s like we are doing much of talking. We should go to meet the people on ground to know the real issues. Some of us have gone on ground, though silently and what do you think we are telling the people? We are telling them to take records. You know the people living around you; you know the people you have lost and you know those that are left. We are registering the people at the IDP camps. We are quiet in our own way of doing things, more so when we don’t have money. You know what it is in Nigeria, when you don’t have money you don’t have name. The truth of the matter is it is not ripe. They should not violate the right of the people because the people will revolt. The people needed physical security and that is why they ran to the various IDP camps. What did we really have in the communities before? Round huts and our people were satisfied with it. If you want to return them to these communities, the people must be involved, safety must be guaranteed, but I think it is too early. Where are the committees? When did they sit to discuss it? What have they agreed on? What have the people said they wanted? I know what the people I have met told me but there are certain things one cannot say publicly because the bad people could filter it and use it against one. So, I insist that reconstruction and sending IDPs back to their villages is not ripe until all stakeholders have met and deliberated on it. We are the people from the North-East but many of those talking about IDPs going home are highbrow people in the cities. Boko Haram has not entered their place before, they have not abducted their family member and they have not violated their wives and daughters. They started abducting our people since 2008. How do we improve the condition of people in the IDP camps? All you need is resource people and they are all over the place. We need volunteers. We are in an unfortunate situation but we are the ones to proffer the solutions. You cannot not go and bring foreigners to take care of our own people. What I want to see is a proper articulation of programmes in the camps. Not for people who have the op-

portunity to go and see the high and mighty and talk and talk and then tomorrow they give the IDPs pittance. No. We disagree with that style. We want the real stakeholders, we want people who have seen it all, and who have a little bit if the history of what is happening to be involved in what is happening at the camps. Let us tell our stories like tales by moonlight, let us cry, laugh and comfort ourselves. Of course you must have heard of the infiltration of the insurgents into some of the IDP camps. The IDPs have become preys in the hands of those who chased them out of their communities. Therefore, we must mobilise anybody that is interested in making the IDP camps better either in the North-East or in other places but such persons must be vetted to their homes. Let them not be the bad eggs that are going wreck more havoc. The challenge of security has brought to the fore our large, porous borders especially across the North. What do you think Nigeria can do to safeguard these borders? Hmm... You see when people describe our borders as large and porous sometimes I feel they want to make a mountain out of a mole hill. Some would even bring solutions that are not workable. The terrorism that we are facing has a root and a connotation that may not necessarily have much to do with porous borders. The Boko Haram leaders told you that they are Islamist Jihadists. They left no one in doubt about who they were and what their visions were from the beginning. The only thing that is making us doubt their message is because we are trading with the issues. We are denying that we don’t know the subject matter but we do all know it. I have said it in several fora that we do all know what these matters are but because we are complacent we pretend that we do not know what is happening. Blaming everything on porous borders is laughable. We have only one Armed Forces and I adore our men and women in the military. This is a national issue of international importance and we cannot afford to be isolated. No country, worth its salt will cheapen its defence in excuses. What about all these multinational companies that we have in Nigeria? Why is it that they cannot contribute to our own security? What is happening that we don’t have enough aircraft? What is the size of the North-East? No matter the length and breadth of the Sambisa Forest, what is the coverage? What are the young men and young women in that part of the country doing? We should provide them with basic military training to defend their land. If the terrorists know that they will meet resistance from the local people, they will think twice. Don’t underrate your enemy even if it is a baby. Assume that that your enemy could be more trained and understand warfare more than you. The truth of the matter is that I don’t believe in all these excuses of porous borders. I think it’s all in a bid to dodge the real issues. We can seal it within seven months if we are determined and believe that Nigeria is the only place that we can call our home. We can do it but the way to do it is to be sincere and accept the issues the way they are and the way we know them. Anybody who says, I don’t care and wants to divorce the issues about Nigeria from religion is not being sincere but living in denial. This denial is not going to carry us far. Like I said, we can maintain our borders if we are sincere with ourselves. We have people living in our border communities. We can employ them to work on the borders. There is no warfare that has been fought in this world or that would be fought in tomorrow’s world that excludes the locals. We can police our borders by training the local people there on ground. You don’t have to carry them to America to train them. They know the terrain and we know what to do when they receive basic military training. We have fought local wars before and we all know how it used to be. We can do it. We

have the money. Why do you think we have failed to secure our borders all these years? I served in Nuguru, a border town in Yobe State. I have gone for some military surveillance exercises in areas like Geidam, Machina, Gashua and some other communities in the hinterland. These border towns are connected by routes leading up to Libya. I have been to Sokoto and served around there for a good number of years. I know what happens in these areas. Most of the time, I have been deployed to work like an infantry or armoured personnel and because of that I was very happy with the work. Age was on my side then and when you are learning something at a young age, there is that exuberance to know more. What is your take on the rising incidents of herdsmen clashing with farmers in the North-East, North-Central and even southern parts of Nigeria? We used to know of people who go to rear their animals in the bushes. We have been dealing with them before. They will go and violate your farm; you will take them to court and they will pay some fines. But today, it us a different story. Today, we hear all sorts of things being done by people whom they now call herdsmen. They are not herdsmen, they are Boko Haram. The so-called herdsmen now bear arms. Who are their sponsors? Look at the mess that is happening in Benue State. There are sponsors of these Boko Haram. They told us this many years ago. They have sponsors. Let us know them. Let the Nigerian people take a decision on what they want to do about them. How did Nigeria get to this sorry stage where we are witnessing mass killings in the hands of the herdsmen? I think Nigeria just found itself here in a hay wire situation. This is the first time too that we are having this large scale of killings and all kinds of criminalities. But like I told you, I am very emphatic; I am very sure that these people are not only herdsmen; these people are Boko Haram and we must see them as such which is outside this denial box. It was denial that the immediate past government kept doing for obvious interests that has to do with them at that elite class that brought us to where we are now. We all know what is happening but if we cannot disseminate the information to our people it does not mean that this is not the issue. If you go down to various places in the North-East, the people will tell you their history and how they came to be in their present situation. I have told them, if we live in denial, if we don’t tell ourselves the truth, this problem will escalate. I don’t know whether you watched one of Christiane Amanpour’s interview in January where she interviewed one religious leader who said that Islamic leaders must take responsibility for global terrorism because Boko Haram and other terrorist groups use the name of Allah. We must not live in denial, no matter who is doing what. The military has been trying but that does not mean that we wouldn’t criticise certain things on the sideline. Do you think Nigeria’s military might will totally solve this security challenge giving the serious religious and ideological roots of Boko Haram? You see, it’s quite pathetic. We have come a long way and it’s unfortunate that anything that has to do with ideology doesn’t die. Did you listen to the discoveries made on Bin Laden recently? . He left behind $29 million to continue his struggle. Would you now tell me that ideology dies? The issues must be said the way they are so that those who never knew the background of the story will get to know it. Why are people getting annoyed when you present a factual or true position of the story? It is because it exposes them.

The Sunday Magazine

“O

Chijioke Iremeka woronshoki is one of the areas, where dumping of refuse in water body has become a sustained practice. Most people dump all manner of rubbish in the water, believing that they are disposing them but this filth are found floating on the waters and what we get in return is a stinking and germ infested water. “Sometimes, the stench from the water is unbearable but there is nothing one can do about it because involving Lagos State Government in this may cause more damage. The government can decide to treat us like Maroko people. I think it’s better for us to keep on managing until the rains come,” said a resident of the sprawling Lagos suburb, Mr. Mojeed Ogunbunmi. Like Ogunbunmi, other residents of Oworonshoki, those living at the foot of the Third Mainland Bridge, are in quagmire, which they have retired to fate to resolve. They believe that involving government to rid the water of its rubbish and stinking water around their dwellings would lead to an unhealthy situation, where eviction and demolition of homesteads would be the resultant effect. For them, with the coming of the rainy season, the stench would be over as the fast flowing water would replace the stagnant smelly one. But one thing they fail to realise is that the same filth that fast flowing water moves away from their environment will go to other areas with low current or tributaries. However, during Sunday Telegraph’s visits to a number of beaches, waterways and canals, three major factors were discovered to be responsible for the dirtiness of Lagos waterways and shorelines. One of which is, dumping of refuse in the body of waters or canals, which eventually finds its way to the main lagoon and creeks that make up 22% of the 3,577 km2 of the state. Again, faecal waste disposal in the water, which in most cases, makes the water to produce foul smell and gives rise to water hyacinth, which disrupts water transportation is another point to consider. Wreckages in the waterways are other contributors to the dirtiness of shores, Sunday Telegraph learnt. “If you come to Kirikiri Canal, which runs from Apapa through Mazamaza to Ago Palace Way in Okota, you will discover that some aspects of the canal are brownish on colour, while the other parts are dark as a result of industrial waste (oil silt) from Apapa and discharge of faecal waste in the canals,” said Sir Ayandare Forunsho, who lives at Old Ojo Road. According to the Knight of St. Molumba, those parts that are dark are so because the sewage management authorities usually discharge faecal waste in them. In most cases, they claim that discharges are not harmful to the aqua lives but what happens to the stench that comes from it? “If you look at the axis, you will discover some wreckages and abandoned boats, belonging to sand miners and sellers. All of them in one way or the other affects the cleanliness of the shore. Nigerian water shores are about the dirtiest in the world and it’s due to these attitudes,” he added. A visit to Victoria Island, under the bridge connecting CMS and Victoria Island, on the left, where some fishermen operate, while facing Bonny Camp, a lot of rubbish, including empty plastic bottled water containers, plastic coke containers, pure water and ice cream wrappers among other things were seen floating on the water. On the right side, towards the Yacht Club, is no difference. Also, under the Liverpool Bridge, Apapa, where women sell fresh fish, food items and others, are public toilets that empty their raw contents directly into the water without any form of treatment, generating an unpleasant smell around the vicinity.

Wreckage, refuse, sewa

The area is also a boat park where people board both speed and pole driven boats to their various destinations. Sunday Telegraph also noticed a number of wreckages dotting the water around the vicinity. According to Mrs. Adebimpe Sotumi, the foul smell that comes from that axis was a result of dumping spoilt fish and dirty things in the water, especially when the water is not flowing well, which is presently the case. On swimming at the lower end of the water might be dangerous as the person might become entangled by fishing nets and other things floating in the water. An environmentalist, Mr. Uzochukwu Araonu, said: “All over the world, canals are being used for transportation but in Nigeria, this is not obtainable because of dirtiness of the people. It’s in Nigeria that you will find full condemned vehicles in

Happy Easter

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

SUNDAY

Body Soul S U N D AY, M A R C H 2 7, 2 0 1 6

Killer Whatchamacallit 22 26 Stun in Gele this Easter 28,29

I’m Nigeria’s cultural ambassador, says Floxy Bee 36

I’m single and searching –Gboyega Afe Babalola

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Body&Soul

Hap Eastepy r

Contents 27.03.2016

COVER

BEAUTY ZONE Skin tags are soft non-cancerous kin outgrowth commonly caused when skin rubs against itself

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Killer Wha tcham 26 acall it 22 Stun in Ge le this E a s ter 28,29 I’m am Nigeria says bassador,’s cultural Floxy Bee 36

A gorgeous Gele will get you noticed in a crowd, whether at a wedding or any other occasion

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My father has made things easy for me with his heavily lucrative investments

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I have been promoting African music and culture for years and have received a couple of awards

GLAM DUDES

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BED, WORK & LIFE

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te o n s ’ r o Edit

season to e this Easter sight? Then us you are the aggrieved if reach out; even stretch out a hand of Hi There time to ’s It not y. rt pa word e amends and at ed all over the ship and mak at is w br llo ho le fe w ce ek is rse er su East ath and re pass blame or de to e e th di e tim is at e e or th iv to forg sically to commem err is human, hrist. This ba er! To C st t. s ul Ea su fa of Je ng of ni an n rectio een m true mea nciliation betw forgive- vine. That is the bring to signifies reco of this week, we r on ve as co se r a ou so n al young O a ’s It of . y of od or e G and t exampl htening st ec lig rf en pe a an ough us u s Th yo . Babalola l about. ness. It give rgiveness is al have man, Gboyega Afe rved fo ca e s nc ha va he ad n, t wha you, you silver spoo a ds en ith w off rn ne s. bo ic eo t go and Before som lf in academ your heart to le s are che for himse already opened u were the one great- a ni Easter and our fashion page an ic yo ’s fr if It A en of ure of pictures forgive; ev lps paint a pict ence filled with beautiful ies rt he pa It . e ed os th ng r ro ly w world off can wear fo is u th yo in ore e m tir to liv at d n today an how we ca will be going on Go to pages like at th free. ne eo m ster Monday. d Is th er e so ded row, Ea Glam dude, an who has offen ft our Fashion spread, em th k ec ch to ri e d abroad you and th Style here an is gr ow in g out. brings to you wider every d wine page an the od Fo t yourself and year with cuisines. Trea uous meals and t ea gr re tu mpt no fu ily to theses su able Easter to rer e c o n - fam or em m a em th c i l i a - give r. ber be t i o n mem is a season of love. Remem e Shar Easter u. yo nd i n ou ged ar the less privile ith those e and money w rtunity tim , od fo ur yo po op e th r have who may neve u. yo k an th bration! to rful Easter cele Have a wonde

T h e Te a m Vanessa Okwara (Editor) Wole Adepoju (Snr. Correspondent) Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) Abiola Alaba Peters Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) Isma’il Akintunde (Graphics) +234 (0) 818 0515840, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com, julietbumah@gmail.com

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StyleSta ker

Toolz Curvy OAP Biwom Iklaki

orn Tolu Oniru, on 6th July 1982 in the UK, Toolz is one of the most curvaceous â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;On-Air Personalitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (OAP), and most controversial, one could argue. With most of her schooling in the United Kingdom, her level of education is evident in her discussions and choice of topics. Her fashion however is our case in study today, as we all know, this is one very curvy lady who knows how to dress up her curves. It is no wonder she won the Nigeria Broadcasters Awards - Sexiest Media Personality! Career-wise, she worked with MTV Europe, Walt Disney UK and now hosts The Midday Show on The Beat 99.9 FM, every weekday. She has hosted several high profile shows including X Factor West Africa and as a judge at 2011, 2012 Channel O Music Video Awards. To say she makes many eyes pop in whatever she steps out in is an understatement. This lady stuns as she is adept at choosing the most flattering ensembles that hug all the accents and nuances of her flamboyantly curvy frame. She

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Gboyega Afe Babalola: I’m Dr. Gboyega Afe Babalola is one of the sons of renowned Nigerian legal luminary and billionaire, Chief Afe Babalola. Thirty something years old Gboyega, who grew up in the United States, shoulders the responsibility of running the fastest growing private university in Nigeria- Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti. He tells DAPO SOTUMINU about his abhorrence for politics and how his father prepared him for his current responsibilities Do you feel any pressure being the son of a prominent Nigerian like Chief Afe Babalola? I get that question a lot. For someone as accomplished as my father, sometimes it scares me. One thing I know is that God is on my side and I am a firm believer in that. I feel that it is a blessing for him to be my father, a little bit of pressure, but I have been able to overcome them. What kind of a father is Chief Babalola? Chief Afe Babalola is a very strict disciplinarian who solely believes in what he believes in that makes a man. He is a self-made person. He takes delight in preaching regularly about his root in Ekiti. I am so happy and delighted that my father has made things easy for me with his heavily lucrative investments. I am not going to tell lies about that. That alone gives me some comfort. He is very strict and he sticks to his words. He hardly changes his position on matters that affect people and his family members. Once he says no, it is no and if it is yes, it would stay that way. And whatever he promises to do, he would do without changing his position. He is one of the most compassionate persons I have met in my life. It is not that he is as old as 100 years, but I have made him a role model. He is a great man for me as his son, our family and also to many Nigerians home and abroad, young and old. How was your growing up like? That is interesting, but basically I spent majority of my life in Nigeria and in the United States of America. At home, I was raised in a Christian family that gives lot of preferences to the values of life. As a young child, I went to church every Sunday. There was no excuse for anyone to stay back at home while others were in church to pray. My mum and dad expected so much from us the children, and I believe strongly that so far so good, they are not disappointed. My dad most especially expected the best any father could expect from his children. Growing up was interesting, I was raised partly in Nigeria and most of my life in the United States. It was a very good experience, but my parents were involved all the way. My mother was like the corner stone of the family, while my father was the energizer that kept the family going. You are in the league of the sons of bourgeoisie Nigerians, how comfortable are you with this? I wouldn’t call it bourgeoisie, but rather would refer to my family as blessed. I am also blessed, anything can be taken away from you any time; don’t take life for granted. Always stay humble because you never know what tomorrow holds. I always feel I am blessed and I thank God for where I was born into. Your leisure time, how do you spend it? My leisure time revolves around basketball. I spend a lot of time in the basketball court. I relax watching movies in cinemas. I play snooker and spend time bowling. I also spend time reading, because reading is fundamental they say. It keeps the brain sharp, so, I do some reading at my leisure time. People of your class born with a silver spoon, indulge in a lot things like driving fast cars, invest in expensive designer shoes and cloths, and regularly go on multi-million naira vacations all over the world. Do you do these? No, I am not in that class. Fortunately, as I said earlier I was born into a family that is Christ-like and much grounded. But the central thing here is that I surely know how to enjoy myself and have fun at the right time, but still, it is all about humanity at my leisure time. I spend the God- given resources doing a lot of humanitarian things; that gives a fulfillment of the heart and I am always happy doing things, basically putting smiles on the faces of the needy. As you know, this is what my father also does for people and institutions across the country. Most importantly, I don’t indulge in spending money on things that are not important to me.

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single and searching Are you married? No, I am not married, not yet time for me to do that. I am still looking for the right woman and I believe God will provide for me the woman that would give me peace of heart. What kind of a woman are you looking for as a life partner? Well, I am currently single and I am looking for the right woman God will send to me as a wife. I am trusting God seriously for this, just as God sent my mother to my dad. I am hoping that in the next two years, I can tie the knot and settle down to build my own family, this is long overdue. Are you a medical doctor or doctor of letters? I am a doctor of letters and not a medical doctor. My degree was in management, Business Management to be particular. All my degrees were bagged from the United States, I am not a medical doctor; I wished I could be a medical doctor, but I couldn’t go through that path. Looking at the success of your father’s professional career in law, one would think that you would pursue a career in the legal profession. But why did you choose a different career? I am going to give you a very honest answer. While growing up, I saw how much work my father put into the legal profession and how much he studied preparing for landmark cases and I asked myself, do I want to study this much? And I said to myself, well yes and no, and so I decided that I was going to go for other degrees and my choice was specifically management for specific purposes. I chose the profession that at point I will stop reading and start enjoying the goodness of my profession. This is a complete deviation from my father’s kind of life, because for him he likes to read and read. He loves his job, that’s his passion. Law is his number one passion. I never grew up with the intention of becoming a lawyer, but at a point I thought about it, but this never jelled and I gave up such aspiration when I looked back and I saw the enormity of the work my father put into the profession to become a legal colossus in Nigeria. You lecture at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti. How is the experience like? The experience is an interesting one, during my dissertation for my Ph.D., I taught a few classes, but right here in Nigeria, it was a totally different experience. The culture of learning is completely different from what obtains in Nigeria. So coming from a totally different culture of education in the United States, it took me time to understand the psychology of the students while relating with them. But over time, it is getting a lot more comfortable, it is getting easier with the students and the people, and the way things are actually done here. It is fun, it is interesting and the next stop is to try to become a professor. My dad would really love that. Do you have any political ambition? At the moment, no, I don’t have any political ambition because I am not interested in politics. Whatever way I have to serve Nigeria, I try my best to serve my country if the opportunity comes in the future. You never can tell what happens depending on what God wants for me. Six years ago when your dad

mooted the idea of a private university, what went through your mind? Six years ago, I was still in the United States then when I was told he was coming up with a university. It sounded like, what i s he doing? Even at that time, he was getting old and I knew the big project takes a lot of ambition, work and money to actually accomplish this feat. But h e re we are six years down the line; this is one of the best private universities in Nigeria, and one of the fastest growing ones. We started with 240 students, but today we have over 5000 students, so it is growing steadily well and I am very proud

and happy to say Chief Afe Babalola is my father. His greatest attribute is that whatever he sets his mind on, he will do and make sure it is accomplished, I am very proud of that. Are you living your dream? Currently yes, I am living my dream. I am where I think I should be at the moment. Helping back home in Nigeria in the capacities I can, gives me feeling of fulfillment. How are old are you? Wow! What a question. I am a young man, younger than 35 years old. I observe that you love the game of basketball dearly, are you thinking of setting up a basketball club that could play in the Nigeria Premier Basketball League? Again, like I said I am involved in a few projects in Ekiti State like the Youth Aligned Movement, and there are some basketball competitions I have been helping to sponsor in the state. I have plans to float a club but let’s keep that in the wraps for now. At the moment I am involved in the project to bring more awareness to the sport of basketball in Nigeria. In the United States, basketball is the second most popular sport and believe me, it is a very enjoyable and loving sport, so I would love to do that here also.

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Killer Whatchamacallit 22 Juliet Bumah

t’s been twelve days since policemen have been keeping watch over Mekson. Of course, he isn’t aware that they have been on duty round the clock since the day he sighted them in his hospital room. He isn’t aware that the nurses have been warned not to mention their presence to him on the pain of sacking. He also isn’t aware that the ‘male nurses’ that have been accompanying the female ones to his room are actually security operatives who are monitoring him. He has taken interest in a particular male nurse with jacked-up physique and wondered how he achieved it. Each time that male nurse is on duty, they chat a little about this and that. He somehow notices that the ‘nurse’ usually doesn’t want to discuss his recovery progress beyond, “You are getting stronger”, with him. Well, ‘Nurse John’ has an explanation for that: he is a physiotherapist, his job will start after Mekson’s physical wound has healed. However, he proves to be a good conversationalist when they discuss politics and the ‘change administration’ in power. They talk about the biting fuel scarcity, the $2.1 billion arms deal that leaves mouths agape and many more revelations. The nurse is informed and interested in governance, it’s clear from their discussions. Dr. Keith continues to pay him unscheduled visits. His mien gives nothing away. One day, he came with a colleague of his whom he introduced as Dr. Henry. The face looked vaguely familiar but Mekson didn’t give it a second thought. Thinking raises his blood pressure these days. He tries to avoid it like the plague. They were on their way from work, Dr. Keith had said. They stayed for about 10 minutes and left after some banters. At a point, Mekson begins to feel that he actually hallucinated about seeing policemen in the hospital room. He was delirious with fever for about two days and his blood pressure had risen to a level that called for concern. That has been managed, thanks to the doctors who seem to have taken more interest in his case. On the 27th day after that accident, the doctors declares him fit and he heaves a sigh of relief. It’s been 27 days of mental agony, of not knowing what has become of his home. He lost his phones in the accident and really doesn’t want anybody to know his whereabouts. He is afraid that May’s people, those heathens that have sworn to make his days on earth worse than what hell is imagined to be, may stalk him to the hospital if they know where to find him. He is also scared that Brother Justus may find him and finally gets a chance to exact his pound of flesh with his wicked looking machete. He shudders. That fake Brother Justus is the reason he is in this hospital. If that accursed human being didn’t barge into his prayer session with Pastor James! Ehen that sweaty, bejeweled Pastor James, is he really a pastor or one of those impostors that prey on gullible human beings that are looking for solutions to their problems? And that pastor gypped him of a tidy sum! He hopes Justus gets a chance to sever the accursed hands the equally fake pastor uses in bringing out the POS to collect offerings from unsuspecting worshippers. Mekson should be happy that he survived

that accident. He is hale and hearty and can walk. Those are reasons he should be happy, but he isn’t. On a second thought, he could just disappear now. He needn’t go for his damaged car. He could sneak into his house late in the night, pick up his international passport and a few things and ‘get lost’. Even the ghosts of his victims - Nechi and May- won’t get on his trail. He smiles. *** After the visit to Mekson with Dr. Henry, Dr. Keith feels like shouting eureka! Dr. Henry is convinced that Mekson is the man with the humongous whatchamacallit who made all their room mates go green with envy. “That’s the guy, Dockie. He was my room mate with the wonder dangler that hung down almost to the knees. Men are proud to have it big but what that guy has down there is the kind we see in hardcore porn. Didn’t believe it could be real till I saw his. At full alert, you fear for the lady that is the object of its excitement,” Dr. Henry had said when they were out of earshot. Things are beginning to fall into place. The university Dr. Henry attended is located in the same town the first rape case that caught Dr. Keith’s attention, nine years ago, was recorded. Dr. Henry could recognise Mekson as his room mate. He put a call to the DPO. After acquainting him with his hunch, he listens, round eyed, as the DPO regales him with an unbelievable story. *** A day after the doctors declare Mekson healed, he is discharged from the hospital. He is told that his bills have been picked up by his friend. He is so happy and grateful to all, both seen and unseen. His friend, Dr. Keith, is on duty. He would have loved to take him home but he loaned him some cash that would take

him home and promised to see him later. Mekson wonders where he is headed. Going home to where the ghosts of his past seem to have taken up residence? He shudders. He bids the friendly nurses and doctors bye as the door to the reception swings close behind him. Mekson walks out of the hospital gate and smack, into the waiting arms of the law. The bigger shocker: the hunk of a nurse is the leader of the team of policemen. “You are a suspect in rape cases involving your wife and a young undergraduate who was raped to death nine years ago,” the ‘nurse’ said. Words fail him as he is handcuffed and bundled into the back of one of the new cars the state government donated to the police recently. He is sandwiched between two policemen in the back, while the ‘nurse’ shares the front seats with the driver. Mekson stares ahead. It’s just like a dream. How could anyone have linked him to that tryst gone awry nine years ago? It wasn’t deliberate, just like the death of his fiancée wasn’t deliberate. Who has been stalking him all these years? “Had I known, I would have managed my stubble of a whatchamacallit. I used my hard earned money to purchase death for myself. I wish I’d have the opportunity to advise mankind to trust God and accept whatever He blesses us with.” Those are actually the thought running through his mind. His heart almost stops beating when he sights Dr. Keith in a friendly banter with the DPO as he is bundled out of the police car at the station. Somehow, the images morph into the ghosts of Nechi and May, laughing at him... *** Few hours later, Dr. Keith sits opposite the DPO in the latter’s office.

“I must thank you Doc, for your doggedness. You not only helped solve this case, you also solved a case which file was closed years ago. The Inspector General of Police will like to meet with you. The Commissioner of Police will tell us when. My men and I are very proud of you,” the DPO said, extending his hands for handshake. “Thanks, but at what point did you realise that that notorious armed robber/rapist in your custody wasn’t responsible for Mekson’s wife’s death?” Dr. Keith asked. The DPO smiles and said, “I ordered that the bagga be taken to the backyard in the dead of night. I threatened him and shot at him twice, deliberately missing him, and he stuck to his guns. I knew he was saying the truth. You know what? real criminals don’t lie. Once they are caught, they tell it the way it is. When I established he wasn’t involved, I decided to give a thought to your hypothesis. I’m glad I did. It looks like it’s even going to earn me a promotion.” “What happens to Mekson? I feel for him. Having heard his story, I feel so sorry for him. He has suffered so much. I wish men will understand that size does not matter. The size of a man’s whatchamacallit does not affect its function, as long as it is not diseased,” Dr. Keith said, his mind already on the trip to reunite with his wife and children. “We will charge him to court. That’s where his fate will be decided. Ignorance is not an excuse in law. Every man should be liable for his action and inaction” the DPO said.

....

Hmmmmm! I’m actually letting out my breath! What do you make of this story? Do write in and share your thoughts on this series.

•Send your observations to: julietbumah@gmail.com

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Here Beyond Dramatic capes in

African designs

Vanessa Okwara

frica is home to some of the world’s most dramatic dress practices and Nigeria is at the top list of the most fashionable people in the world. With the advent of social media, infusion of modern styles into African fashion has become a steady trend. We see in our local fashion lots of styles seen on contemporary English dresses adapted by fashion designers using our local fabrics to masterfully create intricate and amazing copies of theses modern trends. These styles are infused into the African design, aimed at making them to look modern and African all at the

same time. Dress African, dress modern is all about embracing African materials such as ankara, lace, kente and turning them into modern styles. One of such trends that have been adapted into African style is the cape. Capes have been in vogue for a while now and were made more popular when Lupita Nyong’o, wore a red cape dress made by Ralph Lauren at the 2014 Golden Globe Awards. Since then, it has taken the world by storm, including being adapted as an African ‘Aso-Ebi’ style. This Easter Season, you can embrace this style and rock to a special event where you wish to make a dramatic entrance. Check out these comparisons and see how African fashion has deftly adapted the capes style into modern African design and worn by fashionable ladies for special occasions.

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SUNDAY MARCH 27, 20

Stun in Gele this Eas Vanessa Okwara

he Easter holiday fever is on and a lot of parties and fun events have already been rolled out. A lot of families reserve special events like weddings, anniversaries of different memories like silver and jubilee celebrations. It’s also time to show off that new African design you just made. Ditch the contemporary English and evening gowns you have in your wardrobe and glam up in your well designed African designs. Cap it off with the traditional Gele and your ensemble is complete to make you look truly African. A gorgeous Gele will get you noticed in a crowd, whether at a wedding or any

other occasion. The Gele is a tall elegant head piece worn by most women in Nigeria. Though originally worn by women from the Yoruba tribe, it has become a popular fashion accessory for all women across the country and a must have for social functions. The Gele is a large rectangular cloth tied on women’s heads in a variety of intricate fashions. The material to make the Gele is usually stiff but flexible such as Aso-oke (thickly woven silk), Brocade (Cotton) and Damask. These materials come in a wide range of colours, patters and textures. Gele tying is an art form and requires patience when doing it. Every Gele is unique and the same style cannot be achieved twice. The rule of thumb is

the bigger the fabric When shopping fo are skilled enough t if you are not exper When you wrap a headgear will not s hard, it may be cha style you desire. As you are set to e rock this Easter? Wo gear, that is the sign a simple but elegan

Editor’s current obsession

016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

ster

c the more elaborate the look can be. or Gele, ensure the texture of is one that you to manipulate-not too hard and not too stiff rt enough at tying the Gele. a Gele with a soft head tie fabric, the finished stand firm and if the Gele material is too allenging to flex and twist the scarf in any

28, 29

z ne Home remedies for pesky skin tags

enjoy your break, which Gele style will you ould it be the flamboyant sky-scrapper headnature style of Madam Kofo or will you rock nt Gele style? Write us and tell us all about it!

Biwom Iklaki

ur skin is a source of pride to many people. When your skin is smooth and clear, chances are you look healthier and more confident. So, to both men and women, skin health is a top priority which accounts for the amount of money that the beauty industry, pharmaceutical companies and cosmetic doctors (to mention a few) rake in yearly. However, any sort of growth on your skin will give you cause for worry. If they are skin tags though, you shouldn’t worry so much. You can fix it at home. Skin tags are soft non-cancerous kin outgrowth commonly caused when skin rubs against itself. They are painless, irregularly shaped, soft and brownish in in colour. The usual culprits on our bodies are eyelids, neck, arms, lower parts of breasts, and armpits. Diabetes, heredity, obesity, excessive use of steroids, hormonal changes in pregnant women and sometimes, scratches from jewellery, shaving and clothing are often responsible for this condition. Here are a few painless ways to get rid of them:

Lemon juice Dip lemon juice into lemon juice and apply on the tag(s) daily until it falls off. Tying off and cutting With tweezers, pull the tag taut and tie off with a piece of thread or dental floss then cut off with nail cutter. Sounds painful, but it shouldn’t be. Be sure all instruments are sterilised and for precision, get someone to do it. Castor oil and baking soda Make a thick little paste mixture with these ingredients and apply to the tag. Cover and leave on overnight then wash with warm water. The tag should fall off in about ten days. Potato Just cut a piece and place over the tag, bind to make sure it doesn’t fall off. After a while, the tag will blacken then fall off.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

dude

African touch for

OF THE WEEK

Easter

Vanessa Okwara

oday is Easter Sunday! It is a season of joy and love and also a time of partying with friends and family. You will like to use this holiday period to go off your usually suit and tie routine and wear clothes that are more relaxing and traditional. It affords you the luxury of shedding j27the stuffy suit you have worn to work all week and relax in native attire. African outfits are best worn for religious events, special occasions and outdoor social events with close friends and family. Nigerian designers like Yomi Casual and MUDI are front liners when it comes to creating amazing contemporary native designs for men. They craft these designs to fit perfectly with modern tailoring techniques that give form and fitting to the client. Theses designs are created using various fabrics such as brocade, cotton and linen materi-

als. Designers mix and matches fabrics with intricate designs or embroidery to make each creation unique. Well-tailored African contemporary attire complete with a cap is your best choice if you desire to appear at that event looking dapper and sophisticated. There is an extra colour and panache a cap gives to your overall ensemble that simply makes you stand out immediately at any occasion. It is even more colourful if that cap happens to be a symbol of identity from your ethnicity. What makes you stand out in any native attire is the fitting. You have to make sure your tailor has your perfect measurement to avoid making clothes for you that are either too tight or too loose. The beauty of native attire is that the designs are exclusive to you, making you to stand out at any occasion. Strut your stuff in amazing native designs and enjoy the Easter holiday in style.

Gbenro Ajibade T

100% dapper!

all, dark & handsome ‘Tinsel’ star; Gbenro Ajibade is definitely a sight for sore eyes. He played the role of the photographer, Soji Bankole who was love struck with beautiful Telema Duke and since then his acting career has shot to limelight. Gbenro is the fourth out of six children born to Engineer and Mrs. Ajibade. He was born in Maiduguri, attended Makurdi International School, and then Mount Saint Gabriel’s Secondary School and rounded up at Benue State University with a degree in biology. Gbenro landed his big hit on ‘Tinsel’ and that helped to set sail for a big acting career in Nollywood. Since then he has acted in movies like ‘The wages’ and ‘Gbomo Gbomo Express’. The handsome thespian is also a model and has been seen on runways as he modeled for top designers both here in Nigeria and abroad. Modeling and acting are two of Gbenro Ajibade’s greatest passions He is married to delectable Osa Ighodaro who was also a co-star in ‘Tinsel’. Gbenro, who spotted long dreadlocks for years shocked his fans when he shaved it all off shortly before getting married to his beautiful wife in New York last year. Gbenro is definitely stylish and always looks dapper and well put together when seen at events. Recently at the AMVCA 2016, he looked extra dapper in his blue Bosi & Charles ensemble and a hat and definitely raised the temperature of some ladies who couldn’t take their eyes of the handsome dude.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

Body&Soul

KITCHEN DECOR

Trendy kitchen revamp (part 1) Biwom Iklaki Few rooms are quite as multi-functional in the home as the kitchen. It is no longer the strictly utilitarian room that it used to be, but has evolved to a more versatile space for preparing food, entertaining guests and breaking bread. Which is why for many people, the pre-existing kitchen designs of their rented homes may not suit their current design needs. If you are faced with such

a dilemma, don’t sweat it, it is easy to fix with a few hacks. 1. Cabinets: this is one of the focal points of the kitchen and how it looks makes or mars your cooking space. If you already have overhead wall cabinets, you could opt for the open ones. They serve as a display shelf and give the illusion of more space for a tiny kitchen. 2. Update hardware: you can change the knobs for your drawers, doors

Married and still flirting I just don’t understand men sometimes, honestly! Why would a man who got married barely six months ago be looking for in a former girlfriend? This happened to me recently. A former boyfriend I didn’t know hasn’t gotten married, suddenly started calling me up and asking for us to start up the relationship again. I was a bit taken aback and asked him exactly what he wanted from me this time around. He said he wanted a serious relationship that will lead to marriage. Being single, I felt maybe this time he will be more serious and I decided to give him a chance. Luckily for me, before things could get more serious, I stumbled on his Facebook page and guess what? He got married six months ago! I was really shocked. The next time I saw him, I confronted him on it and though he tried denying it, finally owned up and apologized. I guess he wanted to score a quick sexual one with me but got caught in his own game. Married men that flirt and sleep with other women are simply the scum of the earth!

Alice, Lagos My married boss is pregnant with my baby I am a 27 years old guy and I am in deep dilemma right now. My boss is a 37 years old married lady and still very beautiful. She enticed me with

and cabinets to create personality and give it a more cohesive look by using knobs in the same family. 3. Show your ceiling love: do not leave your ceiling out of the TLC. You could add textures which have a way of making your ceiling look more expensive, or add a pop of colour to either create an accent or contrast with the entire kitchen colour scheme. Ceiling tiles are the way to go if you choose to go this route.

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gifts, telling me how much she is attracted to me. I couldn’t resist her and we started sleeping together. I didn’t know her that her main aim was for me to get her pregnant. Maybe her husband was impotent and couldn’t give her child because she confided in me sometime ago that her husband hardly makes love to her and the married is over seven years now without a child. Immediately she got pregnant, she started being cold and towards me and no longer arranges our little rendezvous in hotels. When I confronted her on it, she simply told me she is no longer interested in the relationship and wants to be faithful to her husband. Now, four months after she broke up with me, her tummy is getting bigger and she is glowing and very happy and everybody is congratulating her. I know deep down inside me that she is carrying my child but I don’t know how to confront her on this issue or even how to prove that the baby is mine. I really don’t know what to do. Kunle, Abuja

Married in a hurry and now regretting I was introduced by a mutual friend to a guy who is living in Malaysia that came home looking for a wife. I was overjoyed because he was very rich and ready to spend money on me. He proposed barely two weeks of our meeting. Within a month, we did our traditional and white wedding and I went back to Malaysia with him. I didn’t bother to find out what my husband was doing for a living until five months after when Malaysian Police came to our home to arrest my husband for illegal possession of hard drugs. I did not know he was drug trafficker! Now he is in jail and likely to get a death sentence because that is the law of that country. I came back to Nigeria and I don’t know if I’m single or married. I cry every day because of this hasty mistake. Ladies please always make sure you know what your man is doing for a living before you enter into marriage.

Ijeoma, Umuahia

I am Kaelyn, female, 28 years old. I need a good guy. He could be a pilot, medical doctor or an Engineer with aviation, with dimples though optional. He should be between 30-45 years-08111619816 My name is Shedrack Samuel. I am 22 years old. I am dark in competition. I live in Abuja. I need lady that is between 18-24 years for a romantic relationship-08076451830 My name is Olugbenga, a master’s degree holder. I need a lady between 25-48 years. She must possess B.sc. from the South West09090590568 Martins Jombo, 27 years old graduate of Abia State University. I need someone that understands what true love is all about for a serious relationship. She could be between 18-35 years-07033663935 My name is Blessing and I need in Lagos. I need a male friend-08083523423 I am Bola, I live in Ogun State, educated. I need a God fearing lady. Tribe is not a barrier but she has to be a working class lady that is ready for marriage-08023388213 My name is James, 33 years old from Anambra based in Abuja. I need a lady that has the fear of God and a good sense of humour for relationship between 27-35 years old-07036074537 I am Scott, single father from Ondo living in Lagos. I need a fair godly girl below 27 years for a solid relationship-08035830158 My name is Bolaji, 42 years old and I live in Lagos. I need a wife between 25-45 years old08033329005 Yomi is my name. I am single, dark in complexion and self employed. I need a woman from any tribe, slim and educated and from 20 years and above. My name is Chinedu, 18 years old. I am sexually strong and needs a lady for a real relationship-08139286870

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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Rising profile of Dapo Lam Adeshina

Olori Ladun Sijuwade celebrates @ 60

oming from a privileged background like that of Harold Shodipo, discerning minds can only tell class had mixed with royalty when the immediate past Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse got married to Olori Ladun, many years ago. And staying true to his vows as well as knowing the value of the lady given to him in marriage, the late Oni throughout his life time cared for and valued Olori Ladun like the apple of his eye so much that it was obvious Olori Ladun meant the world to the late kabiyesi. How Oba Olubuse went all out to support his wife when her mother was buried last year speaks volumes of how much the Kabiyesi loved his wife and in line with the same spirit, many had imagined what Oba Sijuwade would have done to celebrate his wife who was 60 a few days ago. Nevertheless, it was still an event to write home about when Olori Ladun Sijuwade clocked the milestone age even though the octane put together in her honour at Lekki, was indoor and a private one. Going by her pedigree, social status as well as the influence of her late husband which knows no bounds either in immediate environment or beyond, it was not surprising that Olori Ladun was going to have a great moment celebrating her new age. Saying the event was glamorous and spiced with fun will amount to stating the obvious knowing the capabilities of the celebrant as not just a social butterfly but a factor on the social scene. With young and old Sijuwades on ground

to celebrate with their own as well as the likes of Otunba Adekunle Ojora and wife, Pastor Ituha Ighodalo, Pastor Wale Adefarasin and wife, Prince Damola Aderemi among many others in attendance, Olori Ladun, relishing and looking splendid in her red gown was in a gale mood to savour the joy and happiness of the moment.

Mathew Ashimolowo spreads tentacles

he aspirations of Osun Stateborn Mathew Asimolowo to be one who would work at the vineyard and win souls for God may have long become a thing of the past as his aspirations have long come to fruition. Asimolowo is today not just another pastor but one of the most popular and the most successful men of God of the time. While his teaching distinguishes him among his crowd and gives him an edge, his sophistication and financial wherewithal also puts him at par with other posh and financially buoyant men of God. Of course, it readily comes to mind the trouble he was enmeshed in at his church in the United Kingdom over the finances of the church which may prompt some to think he cuts corners but his vision and business acumen has rubbished such thoughts as its obvious he’s a man of God who knows his onions as far as business is concerned. The senior pastor at Kingsway International Christian Church, Ashimolowo is no longer news as part of his businesses is a school that was not long ago completed, KICC University at Ode Omu in Osun state. Meanwhile, if information reaching Celeb Lounge is anything to go by, the stylish and fluent man of God may have decided to spread his tentacles as he’s said to have diversified his business ventures. Sources in the know revealed he just acquired around 100 hectares of land somewhere in Ogun State which he intends to use for farming. As a matter of fact, work at the preparatory stage is said to have started at the site.

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any would naturally have given it to the aspirations of the graduate of the University of Ibadan, Dapo Lam Adeshina, when he signified his interest to play partisan politics years back simply because he is the son of former governor of Pace Setter state, Oyo, late Alhaji Lam Adeshina, as it was believed his father’s name would pave way for him. But that was not to be as he would not have a smooth sail at the first shot. Succour eventually came the way of Dapo when opportunity came for him to exhibit the stuff he’s made of when he was made Commissioner for Youth, Development and Sport, in the first term of Governor Abiola Ajimobi. This opportunity opened the eyes of many and convinced them that Dapo had something to deliver. It will amount to stating the obvious to say the precedence he set as the commissioner played a pivotal role in the election that saw him become House of Representatives member; representing North-East/ South-East federal constituencies in the last general election as it was obvious he was the true choice of the people. On another note, youthful Dapo who is one of the youngest members of the National Assembly, seems to have been getting it right even as he’s becoming more popular by the day among his people through his humane disposition and quest to make his people comfortable. Like a chip of the old block that he is, aside of the open door policy he runs which makes him accessible to his people and in turn delights them, he recently moved a step higher when he empowered hundreds in his federal constituency. Honourable Dapo a few days ago empowered 250 members of his constituency as he doled out N20,000 to each aside of other materials given to support them. The young man has since become a hot subject of discussion where two or more people are gathered in his federal constituency as the gesture has only soared his popularity as well as made him more loved.

JDON sets new pace with ‘Koma Roll’

Agbani: Living it up

nlike the sensational bread seller, Jumoke Orisaguna, who became a celebrated model overnight, Rivers State-born model, Agbani Darego was working as a model whose hope was probably to become a national beauty queen, but mother luck smiled on her and she became an international model and beauty queen when she became Miss World some years back. Agbani’s reign had long been over but certainly her status as celebrity remains. Meanwhile, unlike what usually happens to people of her status who become next to ordinary years after they must have quit the big stage, Agbani on her own, seems to have the antidote to this norm as she appears to have got this thing that makes people long for her each time she’s at a public place. Some might attribute it to the fact that she is not given to appearing at all functions. The scenario played out recently at a private launch of a brand which reaffirms the ex-beauty queen is a toast of many as she still got what it takes to liven it up. Garbed in light brown attire and her hair weave which, no doubt, made her beautiful and radiant, she simply became cynosure of all eyes even as everyone wanted to have a photo taken with her.

ast growing Nigeria music industry may have witnessed yet a new singer who is poised to make a significant impact with his new kind of music that is called Juju-pop as he’s just dropped a smoking track tagged ‘Koma Roll’, which is presently ruling the airwaves just as it has become the beat to beat at social gatherings since its release. Asaba, Delta State born J-Don, who officially became a professional musician seven years ago, revealed his move to sing a kind of song which is basically Juju blended with pop, is aimed at reviving Juju in a way that will be appealing to all after he had taken his time to study the industry all along. He further said his inspiration was borne out of the songs of veterans; Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade who he started listening to from childhood and that he’s ready bring the good old days of Juju back. In preparation for his debut album that is expected to be a major effort, J-Don under the management of Gbahinde records, has just dropped a single backed with a jaw dropping video from the stable of AJE films. Chocolate skinned and gangly tall singer is also of the belief that his talent as well as his uncommon project will create a niche for him.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

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Nigerian entertainers pay tribute to Nomoreloss The Nigerian entertainment industry was again thrown into mourning when the death of one of its very best was announced on March 21, 2016. The veteran musician, who was one of the brains behind the campaign to save ace music producer cum artiste, OJB Jezreel, when he needed a kidney transplant was reportedly down with an unknown sickness since January, 2016 which eventually took his life. Mr. Muyiwa Osinuga aka NOMORELOSS was a song writer, producer, talent agent and RnB singer. He was popularly known for his hit singles ‘Iyawo Asiko’ ‘Ololufe’. His new video ‘Beautiful Things’ was released the morning he passed away. Some industry giants expressed their shock and grief with ABIOLA ALABA PETERS

Nomoreloss

Rugged man An Irreplaceable part of our industry is gone. The grief and the pain can be unbearable. You never really know what it’s like until you are there yourself, but we all look to God because he’s the only one who can comfort us. Nomoreloss will forever be remembered in my career. Eternal rest I pray him.

9ice It’s a death so sudden and painful like the death of Dagrin, Goldie and the likes. His death has made me sit down and reflect. It has made me take time to appreciate the loved ones in my life because I don’t know what tomorrow will bring. Nomoreloss was a soldier; he was one of the very best that fought for the growth of the Nigerian music industry. Pasuma Its came as a shock to me, just as it were to many others. We were friends, though, we don’t see often, Nomoreloss was a friend and a brother. He was a talented record producer and artiste. It’s unbelievable, a very painful exist, such that no one would ever imagine. Isha Allah there will be no more loss in our industry again.

Rugged Man

Azadus Honestly, it’s the most shocking news I ever received in 2016 and indeed a very sad one. I was never aware he was sick, no information whatsoever. The next thing was Nomoreloss is dead. I had thought it was one of those rumours by bloggers, only for me to make some few calls and realise it was true. He will be greatly missed. My heart is with the families and relatives. Jaywon Its sad bro, I have been cold for days, I was heartbroken when I got the news. I was out of Lagos, precisely Abuja. I had to call my manager and some close friends to be sure it’s just a rumour, but to my greatest surprise, it was real. Nomoreloss was a great artiste, he was there with me in the studio all through the debut of my ever green song, “ODUN YI”. Personally, I am going to miss him, and even the industry.

Pasuma

Olamide Sad! Nomoreloss is gone! I still can’t phantom what led to what! His death really shocked everyone. When we lost a loved one, we cannot bring them back, but at least in memory of them, we can live a life that I know they would be proud of. He was a great artiste, someone I admired and respected his art.

survival. He was there all through the campaign period. He was a brother from another mother. May God bless his soul. MI It’s a sad one, he was a pioneer in the Nigerian music scene. Our loved ones may be dead and gone but we who are privileged to still be living owe it to them to live fulfilling lives. My condolences to his wife and daughter. Acapella Well, it’s quite sad, I was really shocked when I heard the news of his demise. How come nobody heard he was sick, all of a sudden he is dead. The entertainment industry will miss him a great deal. He was such a nice guy, at least we all know he spearheaded the campaign survival of legendary singer OJB when he was down with kidney failure, I think that’s enough reason to remember him. God bless his wonderful soul and give his family the fortitude to bear this lost. Timi Dakolo It is hard to accept the death of a loved one, not only when you didn’t have the chance to say goodbye, but especially when they are still young and have so much to offer to their society. It’s really painful. As Christians, we accept it in good faith believing they are in a better place. I pray God to give his loved ones the fortitude to bear the great loss.

Olamide

OJB Jezreel I am still in shock that Nomoreloss is gone; he can no longer be seen with the human eye. One thing I am sure of is that his soul and the love he gave to so many will never ever die. He contributed enormously to my

Dakolo

Lepacious Bose So Nomoreloss is gone! Muyiwa was great man; he will never watch another go through what he went through and not do something to save him or

her. Nomoreloss may be gone; his ever green art will live. God bless all the good friends that stood by him, the loved ones he left behind especially his wife and daughter. Good night Muyiwa, may your good deeds remain a memorial.

Lepacious Bose

Oritse Femi Its sad, I didn’t believe it at first but it’s inevitable. Things like this made me put things in perspective. Nomoreloss put smiles on the faces of many, including his colleagues in the industry. He is going to be missed.

Julius Agwu Words can’t describe the emptiness inside of me, that’s the way life goes, and God’s will, we must accept. I have known Nomorloss for over a decade. He was a great guy, very humble and talented. May his soul rest in peace.

Wizkid Nomoreloss is a big brother in the industry, a veteran too. We all regretted his exist. Presently I’m in the States. My condolence to his family, especially his wife and daughter and relatives.

Agwu

Wizkid

Brymo We can’t question God because obviously he knows more than we do, Death is a graduation. When we’ve taught all the things we came to teach, learned all the things we came to learn, then we’re allowed to graduate. It was indeed a great loss not only to his family, but to the music industry.

JJC We lost a veteran, Nomorloss was one of the pioneers in the music industry. I received the news of his demise as a shock. It’s disheartened to lose a loved one, especially those who still have so much to contribute to the industry, and their society. We will miss him.

Nollywood actress, Abimbola, makes TV debut Fast rising Nollywood actress, Abimbola Oni has delved into TV presentation. The Fidelis Duker discovery and one time face of award winning TV series, Super Story has been unveiled as the new face of an entertainment magazine on Sliverbird Television. “I am happy to explore this aspect of my career; I have never been new to TV as I have always been part of different soaps. I am doing this for my fans, so they can have enough of me, and I promise never to let them down. It won’t affect my acting career in anyway because it is a recorded program,” she urged. Abimbola Oni, an under graduate of Lagos State University studying Banking and Finance is no doubt a talented Nollywood actress. The Ekiti State-born and the first of four children, whose work is mostly in the Yoruba genre, has become producer’s favourite. Ever since her graduation at the acclaimed school of art, PFTI, she has continued to win the heart of movie lovers by starring in over 30 movies

Girl-child movie ‘searching’ hit cinemas

Award winning movie on girl-child marriage, ‘Searching’ has hit the cinemas. The Nigerian emotion laden movie which was written and produced by Josephine Anumbor, tells the story of a young girl, Ogal, who, in search of true love and affection, derailed temporarily. The movie, which features top Nollywood stars including Eucharia Anunobi and Yemi Blaq, was first premiered in Abuja. It was well attended by all and sundry from the entertainment industry and the government; some of the guests include, wife of the Nigerian president, Mrs Aisha Buhari, wife of Senate president, Mrs Toyin Saraki among others. Speaking about the movie, the producer Josephine Anumbor said “I also want some female philanthropists to intervene in the lives of young girls, especially those that are going through one form of ordeal or the other. A little encouragement can go a long way. When we mentor somebody, we can never imagine the extent it will go in impacting the society. We also expect the male audience to examine their conscience so as to identify where they have erred in their relationships and try to make amends’’. Anumbor has just returned from the United Kingdom and the film opened at Odeon Cinema. The opening was well attended by the British and Nigerian audience. The film would be in cinemas simultaneously in different cities across the country.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Easter: season to show practical love

f a situation comes up and you are asked to give your life in place of your partner, will you actually do it? Well, it can only happen in the movies; like in Titanic when Jack had to freeze to death in the ocean so that Rose can survive the cruise ship tragedy. But in reality, when push comes to shove, will you actually take the place of your partner in death? I think not! But that is the message Easter depicts: a saviour was willing to die for the sins of the whole world so that we can be reconciled back with God. That is truly amazing! True love is all about sacrifice. Even if you don’t die for him/her, you can still make sacrifices and commitment to your partner to let them know how much you value them. In this Easter season, begin to show practical love to your loved ones in different ways and see that relationship transform to be the best you could ever imagine. If you are among the few people in life that have found true love, I enjoin you to do all you can to ensure that the oil of love in that relationship does not dry up. Just like the engine of a car cannot function to its maximum capacity without constantly changing and topping up the oil; the same is applicable to the bonds that hold your relationship. You have to constantly find ways to top up the love tank of your relationship or else it stands the chance of getting knocked up and you wouldn’t want that, right? Let me ask you something: How often do you actually say ‘’I love you’’ to your partner and is there any need to

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say ‘’I love you’’ if it is not backed up with action? Although professing undying love to your partner is very important, unfortunately it is not just enough. ‘I love you’ must not be ‘said’ with words alone; but must be backed up with action if you want that love to survive the test of time. While this phrase is a powerful conveyor of emotion, showing your love in other ways is just as significant, and possibly even more effective, at keeping a relationship alive and healthy. Your love must be backed up with action before it can hold water or weather the storms of life. There are practical

There is no need to say ‘’I love you’’ when you do not even make that person or the things that concern your partner a priority in your life

ways you can show how much you love someone without uttering those three little words. First of all, your profession of love must measure up in your commitment to that person. Commitment is the foundation in which any relationship survives. There is no need to say ‘’I love you’’ when you do not even make that person or the things that concern your partner a priority in your life. Make him/her the number one person in your life by demonstrating it through active support. Being thoughtful and taking the initiative to bring happiness to your partner is another simple and practical way to say ‘I love you’. It’s the small things you do for your partner that really counts and not necessarily when you buy the whole world and put it on a platter of gold. Happiness in a relationship does not only consist in the abundance of what you possess but in the demonstration of love and care from both parties involved. Another way of professing your love practically is to always show your approval, gratitude and admiration for your partner on a daily basis. We all

want to be shown approval for the things we do, whether it’s the way we provide for our family financially, the way we raise our children or the way we look. Don’t be stingy with compliments! Show appreciation anytime your hubby or wife does anything for you, no matter how small. Compliment her looks and make her feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. While the woman responds with loving words loaded with respect for the man. Words are very powerful! What we say goes a long way to actually depict how we truly feel in our heart. You cannot say ‘I love you’ in one breath and the next thing you are using hurtful and abusive words on your partner. Is that true love? Being constantly critical and only focusing on your partner ’s negative attributes doesn’t say ‘I love you’ very well. In fact, it’s demeaning and will drive him/her away from your life. Please recognize the damage your criticisms may be causing in your relationship. They are the little foxes that mess up a loving relationship; especially those that are petty and insignificant. Rather, choose your battles wisely and lovingly lay out any complaints you might have at the most appropriate time. Finally, endeavour to be your partners’ best friend, always willing to lend a listening ear and being there when they need you most. When you begin to say ‘’ I love you’’ with action rather than with words, you will surely elicit a positive response from your partner that will reinforce the love both of you have for each other, more than words can ever say!

Kakara to Kika: Celebrating Nigeria’s Young beautiful Minds D rum roll please. Today, I step out as a sage to celebrate the success stories of the next generation of Nigerians; the ones who have stopped looking up to the failed state and its visionless leaders, but have taken the bull by the horn and decided to go and make things happen. These young beautiful minds are entrepreneurs, writers and activists. Their creativity is their drive, it is their fuel and it is propelling to greater heights in their endeavours. Today I celebrate Ayodele Christian Owopetu and Sajou Hyeladzira Joda, Mary Ajayi and Kika Otiono. If this names mean nothing to you, then do not worry for that will change in a very short time. These are young and brilliant Nigerian minds that I am sure will not stop at the sky when they have the universe to explore. Ayodele Christian Owopetu and Sajou Joda are the brains behind kakaraonline.com, an online market hub for buyers and sellers. I guess you can call it Nigeria’s ebay. These boys are still undergraduates at the University of Maiduguri, pursuing engineering degrees and rather than allow the constant disruption in their education, due to the strikes and unrest in the North East of Nigeria derail their ambitions, they use the opportunity to work on their entrepreneurial skills and the result is ‘kakaronline.com’. They remind me of Jerry Yang and David Filo who established Yahoo when they were undergraduates. I have visited the site and while it is still in its formative stage, activities are already buzzing as people have started posting the things they want to dispose of on the site. It represents a Nigerian step in embracing the green message of

recycling, renewing and reusing. It is a message that is still not widespread in Nigeria but which, with the presence of a portal like kakaraonline.com, can spread more easily. We don’t have to fix or buy new things if the old one is not broken. We can always sell off the new things we do not require and now both buyers and sellers can meet without the fear of judgement from onlookers who may condemn based on the bend down mentality that we have. With this young boys actively using the web to create new opportunities for Nigeria, it is only a matter of time before Ayodele Owopetu and his associate become the next Mark Zuckerberg For Mary Ajayi, campaigning for the

girlchild has been a passion since she was in school. A graduate of the University of Ibadan, Mary Ajayi has tirelessly worked with the Moremi Foundation to campaign for better education for the girl child in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. I guess we can say that other than been shot by the Taliban, Maryn Ajayi possible is Nigeria’s equivalent of Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani girl shot by the Taliban for similar projects. I was introduced to this bright mind by a friend and I have not been disappointed. Only this week, she took her message of empowerment to the highest possible level, addressing the 60th session of United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York. I watched

It is not only the ones at home that are making Nigeria proud. Second generation immigrants with a strong root in Nigeria are also putting the country on the world intellectual map

live as a confident young woman spoke of her experience and urge all women, not just in Africa but the world to stand for progress. She made me proud; proud to be associated with her, proud to be a Nigerian and what’s more, proud that such a brilliant young lady is still active within the Nigerian terrain to inspire hope in the nation. It is not only the ones at home that are making Nigeria proud. Second generation immigrants with a strong root in Nigeria are also putting the country on the world intellectual map. I will put Kika Otiono on top of this league. This teenage creative sensation has always impressed me with her wisdom right from when she was a baby. The product of two creatively welded minds (Nduka and Onyisi Otiono), Kika found support at home and then used it as a launch pad for her passion. I was just watching the TV like I would on a lazy Sunday when I saw her picture come on television as the winner of a prestigious essay competition to mark black history month in Canada. I don’t care about the prize money and the giant cheque she got, they are rewards for the hidden intelligence behind her beautiful smile. She is carrying on a legacy handed down by her parents, a legacy of promoting Nigeria and African culture as an Ambassador. Interestingly, all these beautiful minds share one thing in common; they all write creatively. So, writing as a vocation has helped them explore their creative side and they have translated it to greater things. To all these ‘aburos’ of mine, I congratulate you and say more grease to your elbow.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

WINE & DINE

Body&Soul

Enjoy tasty dietary mix for Easter

Ibukunoluwa Kayode There is no balanced diet without taking a drink for easy digestion. Most people, especially women, are usually concerned about their weight. Day in day out, they look for solutions to keep the fat and the abs under check. So many health experts and nutritionist is keep rolling out pills in herbal supplement forms to proffer solutions to weight loss. But fact still remains that a healthy diet can actually do better than these pills, with no side effects. Getting rid of excess fat goes beyond keeping a date with the gym and the so called ‘fat burning’ pills. To achieve natural fat burning, include in your diet two to three days of smoothies. Smoothies are natural fruits like or-

ange, pineapple, grape, apple, strawberries, grapes and others blended together to form a pasty drink. These smoothies help the body get rid of toxins, improve sluggish digestion and jump start weight loss goals. They help flatten the belly, clear the skin and increase energy level. These drinks only require little energy to digest and assimilate into the body due to the ingredients which are whole fruits pureed into easily broken down nutrients. They also have high fibre content. In other to make a perfect balance diet, always take a light dinner on your smoothie day. However, it also works best when you take a cup of smoothie alongside each meal you take the entire day. Enjoy a smoothie this Easter and live healthy!

Asian shredded chicken sauce Biwom Iklaki

ou all know that I am all for stepping out of the box on occasion for special occasions. Besides making your regular chicken sauces, let’s try this Chinese inspired satay chicken sauce for the Easter table. Let’s get on with it real quick. Ingredients 1 thumb-size piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 3 tablespoons dried hot red pepper flakes (I like heat!) 1 teaspoon Asian sesame oil Flour to coat chicken 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 each, green, red peppers (cut in strips)

2 tablespoons garlic powder 2 stalks spring onions (cut large strips) 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) Salt (to taste) Preparation Finely shred chicken and season lightly, then mix garlic and ginger powder and coat the chicken. Fry and set aside. Whisk soy sauce, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil in a large bowl to make sauce. Heat vegetable oil in cleaned skillet until hot but not smoking, then sauté peppers and spring onions over moderately high heat, stirring, about six minutes. Add garlic, and salt and pepper to taste and sauté, stirring, until peppers are just softened. Add mixed sauce, then add chicken and cilantro and mix well. Leave for one minute and serve chicken sauce with lettuce or rice. Have a fabulous table as you celebrate Easter!

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

I’m Nigeria’s cultural ambassador, says Floxy Bee Florence Trautman, famously known as ‘Floxy Bee’ is talented and passionate about her love for Nigerian culture. The UK-based artiste cherishes her African cultural heritage greatly as she plays Hikosso, a potpourri of African genres of music. In this interview with EDWIN USOBOH, this Modakeke-born music diva talks about why she is still being celebrated worldwide as Nigeria’s Cultural Music Ambassador and other issues How will you describe your Hikosso brand of music? Hikosso genre of music is a variety, a potpourri of African genres of music, consisting of Highlife, Makossa, Soukous, Jazz, and Afrobeat, to mention a few. They are all called Hikosso! What inspires your brand of music? My brand of music was inspired by my culture and traditions. How come you render your songs in Yoruba language all over the world? I render my songs flawlessly in Yoruba because l am a Yoruba woman. How do you derive inner satisfaction playing your brand of music? I love what l do and I have fun doing it. It gives me great pleasure that I can share my music with the world. Can you take us through some of your unforgettable music shows? I have had many memorable big shows. The biggest thrill was when l performed at Harlem’s Legendary Apollo Theater in USA, where virtually every major black artiste had been before. This made me feel that Hikosso Music had arrived in America. How do you ensure pirates are not feasting and feeding fat on your works? I am a member of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) and the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN). It is difficult to monitor piracy if you are millions of miles away from Nigeria. COSON is doing some of the monitoring. Thank God for that. Why do you always dress in native outfits? I dress in my native attire because I am comfortable in it and I am a cultural ambassador of Nigeria.

I have an honorary doctorate degree from All Saints University, citations from the city of Boston and Newark USA, several world music awards and as I said earlier, I am the Yeye Asa of The Source, a Yoruba chieftaincy title. Your music harps on moral decadence and lawlessness in Nigeria and Africa. Tell us a bit about this? Our music reminds people of our rich and unique cultural traditions. Historically, our culture has had important influence in the Diaspora. Most societies have lost their way, sometimes the way forward means going back. Going back also means going back to our values, as in respect for our elders, our environment and the unity of the family. By so doing we will develop the spirit of patriotism. To re-brand Nigeria, 99.9 per cent of the population must feel responsible towards the nation. The nation as a whole must participate in the development of Nigeria as in cleansing of bribery and corruption, change i n atti-

Kindly take us through some music awards you have won? I have been promoting African music and culture for years and have received a couple of citations and awards, hence the label, Nigeria’s Music Ambassador. What led to your stage name ‘Floxy Bee’? My baptismal name is Florence Benjamin, hence Floxy Bee. In retrospect, as I have become a representative of African culture, I might have been better served if I had used my African name Oluwatoyin. However, there’s only one Floxy Bee, since Floxy Bee is a global brand. Can you take us through your title Yeye Asa (Cultural Mother) of The Source? The Adagba 1 Oba Bolu Fatunmise is from Ile-Ife Iyanfoworogi, a great artiste himself. He deemed it fit to bestow upon me the title “Yeye Asa” meaning Mother of the Source due to my contributions to the spread of African music and culture in the Diaspora. It was in recognition of this that I was not polluted by other alien cultures but still standing true to my roots. Tell us about your clothing line making a huge wave in Nigeria? My clothing line when it goes into production will be available online, at my shows and at one or two select stores in Lagos State. If anyone is interested in my clothing line kindly send us an email and I promise to personally keep you updated. Tell us about your honorary doctorate degree and how music can be used to re-brand Nigeria?

tude in the w a y we see money as priority, not as a means to an end. How can the Nigerian Entertainment industry progress to higher grounds? For the nations’ entertainment industry to move forward, all artistes, entertainers and musicians need 24-hour electricity supply in 365 days in a year to perfect our art. For music practice and perfection, we need constant light or else we will fall short from the world standard of

what it takes to be a first class artiste. We need water to wash, to feel good and smell fresh. We need security to be able to move at night and not in be constant fear of being attacked by armed robbers. President Muhammadu Buhari should also have a sense of responsibility towards the citizens, be they artistes, artists or laymen. The welfare of the citizens should be uppermost on his agenda. The President should provide funding for traditional musicians because our culture is no longer fashionable and is in danger of being lost. What lessons has life taught you? Life has taught me to be humble, to never say never, and never give up. It has also taught me to turn dreams into reality through hard work. And I know that nothing in this world is free. Finally, your message to your fans around the world? Always believe in yourself, work hard and leave the rest to God.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY March 27, 2016

Sunday Magazine

age pollute Lagos water ways

water and in canals or heavy irons. “Then, there used to be heavy irons and iron sheets in Ladipo canals in Mushin until the government of Babatunde Raji Fashola took a decisive step to stop it. Nigeria water bodies, especially Lagos are filled with dirt. Canals are being cleared in such a way that it does not hinder the movement of small boats in other countries. When the waterways are dirty, it affects a number of things.” Makoko is another area of concern, where piles of rubbish float outside their shacks. Shabby shacks on stilts, floating waste and rickety boats fill the expanse of murky water at Makoko. But in July, 2015, the Lagos State Government began demolishing some parts of the slum. A letter was served on residents giving them 72 hours to vacate their properties. The letter from the Lagos State authorities

said the illegal constructions constituted an environmental nuisance, security risk and an impediment to the economic and gainful utilisation of the waterfront and undermined the megacity status of Lagos. Although some houses were demolished in July, there are people, who live there. The slum is clearly visible to traffic speeding past on the city’s Third Mainland Bridge each day. Nigeria has over 800km of coastline, much of it extensively littered. In the last 25 years, an estimated 144, 606, 491 pounds of trash was removed from beaches worldwide and researchers have said that about 80 per cent of marine litter originates on land, and most of it is non-biodegradable, noting that plastic pollution causes, at least, $13billion damage each year to industries including fishing, shipping, tourism and the cleaning of coastlines.

Quoting 2014 report by the United Nations Environment Summit, Beach Samaritans Co-Founder and environmentalist, Adesola Alamutu, said it’s easy to see how the recyclable items, especially the non-biodegradable items, impinge on the economy and cost it money, saying there is a lull in beach tourism and even the locals, who live five minutes away from the beach don’t visit. Also, a visit to Regal Seaview Beach in Lekki, the litter that filled the beach, tainting its glorious view, has become common place in most beaches in Lagos. With every wave, tons of dirt is flushed out to the seashore, sometimes leaving a stench that puts even residents, visitors off the beach. What used to be the number one spot for relaxation has generally been relegated. But for a few private and exclusive beaches, most others harbour traders and people, who build shanties on the beach which are used for various activities. Beaches in Lagos have evidently become trash haven, ignored by many, but totally noticed by founders of Beach SamaritansPelu Awofeso and Adesola Alamutu. In a particular clean up to commemorate the International Coastal Cleanup, the environmentalist, Alamutu said: “We have to clean up our shores and waters for our sake. We are doing this for our environment, for our tourism and for our collective health. This is our sixth cleanup activity in the past one year, and we are delighted that we have had the support of hundreds of volunteers and some sponsors this far.” This is a little contribution to the big problem of dirty beaches and sea shores. Unfortunately, what we see dirtying beaches and floating on the ocean’s surface is just the tip of the iceberg. Much more lies unseen beneath the surface and far away on the open water — but that doesn’t make it any less important. She said: “But the beaches I see after the clean-up actually look more appealing. The first clean-up I attended was on Saturday September 19, 2015. I went to the Regal Seaview and met the enthusiastic bunch at Beach Samaritans and another group – Kids Clean Club – heaping black bags with trash-recyclable items. “We dug in, slid the rubber gloves on and helped pile on the bags. This was real, empty bottles, slippers, containers that could all be recycled. That particular clean up was to commemorate the International Coastal Cleanup and it was memorable, an event I was proud to be part of because there was action, not mere talking.” At Igunmu, around National Theatres, there is yet another pool of water, which has been in existence for long. This is where one finds real dirt, silt and stench. During the Governorship candidate debate, the second term bid of Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola as the Governor of Lagos State,

We have to clean up our shores and waters for our sake. We are doing this for our environment, for our tourism and for our collective health

he made mention of this particular water, saying it was an ecological threat. In responding to a question in that regard from a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President, Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Olisa Agbakoba, Fashola said he was going to open up the water to let in air by causing oxygen bubble to eliminate the stench but that has remained the same after he had left office. However, Lagos State Government has warned residents that anybody caught contravening the laws guiding disposal of waste water in the state would henceforth face wrath of the law. The Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Samuel Adejare, the negative attitude of the average Lagosian to waste water management posed a challenge to the implementation of the government’s development plan in the sector. He said: “The State government was determined to build on existing infrastructure to recycle waste water. The Lagos State Waste Water Masterplan, which covers the years 2015 to 2040 has immediate, medium and long term intervention and strategies to address the challenges in the sector.” He noted that the government is walling of the rivers/canals from dwelling places with barb wires to ensure that people don’t get access to the canals and water bodies in the state. In the same manner, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has called on residents of the state, especially those living along rail and water corridors not to treat it as a dumping ground. While emphasising Lagos State government’s unalloyesd commitment towards effective waste management, the Authority warned that anyone caught violating the environmental sanitation laws through such illegal dumping will face the full wrath of the law. The Authority reaffirmed its call on people, who own properties and shops on major roads and highways to comply with government’s directive to secure covered containers for proper disposal of their refuse. They are also being reminded not to patronise cart-pushers but urged to use only PSP operators for the evacuation of their wastes.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

NEWS EXTRA

Bauchi partners CSO on empowerment Alhassan Yusuf BAUCHI

he Bauchi State Government has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy (SCLA) and Women Empowerment Initiative Centre (WEI) to achieve gender responsive budgeting and empowerment of the people of the state. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Isma’il Muhammed Isah in Bauchi when he received members of SCLA and WEI during their courtesy call on him at Abubakar Umar Secretariat in the state. Other issues discussed include the promotion of community awareness and sensitisation and improving women empowerment at the grassroots level by the women empowerment initiative.

Isah, however, assured the members that the present administration will support and cooperate with the agenda set up in view of the foregoing development of empowering women from across the local government of the state. His words: “Despite the problems of insurgency, the state government is making effort to abate the lingering criminality and other vices. Although presently there is peace in Bauchi and the APC government led by Muhammed Abdullahi Abubakar, the administration is doing all it can towards providing enabling environment for growth. Earlier, the state Coordinator of CSLA and the Project Manager WEI, Mr. Mairiga Shamma thanked the commissioner for his assurances, adding that the group, chaired by their leader Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, will do anything to carry out its set objectives.

Ortom lauches road projects Cephas Lorhemen MAKURDI

overnor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has flaggedoff the construction of two new major roads in the state. The roads include the 40.397 km Origbo-Imande Akpu-Gbajimba Road (Phase 1) and the 32 km Phase II Gbajimba-IordyeAwe, Nassarawa State border. It has been awarded at the cost of over N4.7 billion. The governor also flagged-off the construction of the 24 km Mobile Police Road Junction-Mo-

bile Barracks-Adeke-Welfare-Quarters-Yaikyo-Apir Road junction, which was awarded at the cost of over N3.2 billion. Speaking at the ceremonies, Ortom stated that the aim for constructing the roads was to fulfill the social contract he promised the people during his electioneering campaign, as well as bring to an end the untold suffering of the people of the affected communities. The governor stated that on assumption of office, he promised to provide critical infrastructure to the people, which he said forms part of the five pillars of his administration.

Obi flags off entrepreneurship programme Pamela Eboh AWKA

undreds of youths in the South-East geo-political zone are to benefit from the entrepreneurship programme established by Intarfact Beverages Limited, a subsidiary of SABMiller Breweries Ltd based in the commercial city of Onitsha, Anambra State. The empowerment programme is targeted at youths between the ages of 18 and 35 years, who are expected to submit a business plan for a business they want to start or a small scale business that has already been es-

tablished but requires support. Speaking at the formal launch of the programme in Onitsha, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, who is the Chairman of Board of Trustees of SABMiller Hero’s Foundation, said that the aim of the youth empowerment programme was to develop a local culture of business entrepreneurship among young people in the South-East by encouraging and promoting business skills, managerial awareness and material support through training programmes, mentorship and provision of business grants as start –up capital and for expansion.

Proprietor of Christfield Schools, Hon. Salawu Olaniyi, presenting trophies to winners at the event

Blue House wins Christfield Schools sports competition Stanley Ihedigbo

hristfield Comprehensive Schools have held their maiden inter-house sports competition where various school houses bagged various trophies. The Blue House grabbed the first position over Yellow, Red and Green houses, while some visiting schools also participated in various races. Speaking with the Sunday Telegraph on the event, the schools’ proprietor, Hon. Salawu Olaniyi , described the inter-house sports competition as an important component of any serious academic and intellectual vocation.

He noted that the event was the first since the school was establishment in 1999, hence the decision of the schools to add colour and panache to the event. He said that the schools’ maiden edition of sports was a product of long years of planning as the management wanted to ensure that it removed all hiccups. “We had a very good and solid planning for this one. We don’t want to do interhouse sport for the sake of doing it. We did not want an inter-house sports which would not be a reference point. We knew that we needed professional touch in the preparations and that was

exactly what we put in place. “This is time as a school, we believe we can do it better and we informed the parents, professionals and students. I can tell you that we really prepared very well for the inter-house sports and it became the talk of the town and even some schools that participated in the activities were asking us to allow our sports master to assist them to plan inter-house sports in their schools,” he said. Hon. Olaniyi said that sports events are very important because these are areas where sports sponsors and talent hunters discover talents and potential of the children.

He advised that parents should not wait till their children grow up before harnessing their potentials and talents. “At their tender age, they are being discovered in particular areas of sports and with the intervention of government or individuals and parents, such talents are developed and nurtured to maturity. The children would be encouraged in a way that it will not affect their studies,” he added. He lamented about insufficient competitions due to absence of sponsorship by various corporate bodies and rich individuals, saying that this is not helping the development of sports.

Committee on MOPICON Bill for inauguration Tony Okuyeme

ustained calls by filmmakers on the need to have a central professional regulatory body is yielding results, as the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, on Thursday, announced that the inauguration of a Ministerial Committee aimed at fast-tracking the passage into law of the much anticipated MOPPICON Bill will hold April 8, 2016 at the Conference Room of the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos. The 17-member Com-

mittee, according to the Minister, will have the Founder/CEO of Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Ms Peace Anyiam-Osigwe as Coordinator, while the Chairman, Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS), Mr. Mahmood Alli-Balogun as Deputy Coordinator, and Mr. Tony Anih of the Film Makers Collective will serve as the Secretary to the committee which is expected to review and harmonize the MOPPICON Bill ahead of its submission to the Ministry of Justice and then the

National Assembly. The committee will also have representatives of the various Nollywood guilds and associations as members. They include Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN) and Producers, Marketers Association of Nigeria (FVPMAN), Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP), Screen Writers Guild of Nigeria (SWGN), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Movie Ambassadors of

Nigeria, Niger Delta Film Forum and Female Producers of Nigeria. Others are representatives of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Federal Ministry of Information and Culture. The MOPPICON, when established, will regulate, administer and control the motion picture practice in Nigeria. Earlier, the Minister had announced the plan to set up the Committee at the 2016 Kannywood Awards in Abuja.

Don’t stop rice importation, Nigerians are hungry – Buhari told Muhammed Kabir KANO

he National Chairman of the Harmonized Traders Union, Dr Bature AbdulAziz, has urged the government of President Muhammadu Buhari to defer its policy of boarder

closure against rice importation because Nigerians are extremely hungry because of rising food prices. The Chairman told Sunday Telegraph that the policy stopping rice importations now will be anti-people because the nation is already facing shortage of foods and

there was not enough money in the hands of the people to purchase them. Dr AbdulAziz said although the policy on banning importation is highly commendable it should be done cautiously. He added that today, the Nigerian economy is in

dire straits and something urgently needs to be done to salvage it. “We need strong measures to redeem the sorry state of our economy and what the government of Buhari is doing is the best and we should all support it and pray for it,” he said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

News

Interview

Its ‘insane' if Nigeria’s currency policy stays - Unilever p.40

Sellers of substandard products deserve death penalty - SON DG p.41

AUTO BEAT

Mercedes Maybach S-Class unveiled p.43

Business

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business

paulogbuokiri@newtelegraphonline.com

Global stocks, commodities fall

S L-R: Customer Marketing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Obinna Anyalebechi; Marketing and Innovation Director, Mr. Gavin Pike and Corporate Relations Director, Mr. Sesan Sobowale, at the media launch of ORIJIN ZERO in Lagos… on Thursday

Agric/mining: Nigeria's untapped goldmine Paul Ogbuokiri and Stanley Ihedigbo

ith over 44 different types of solid minerals found in commercial quantities in Nigeria, The country is believed to have great mining potentials for development of her economy but its present contribution to the GDP at 0.5 per cent according to a geologist is still low and unfavourable compare to its sub-Saharan neighbours in respect of GDP and export value generated from solid minerals. Professor Abraham Adepeium, a geology lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife said at the recent one-day First New Telegraph Economic Summit in Lagos, that Nigeria’s rich human and material resource endowments give it the potential to become a major player in the global economy through mineral exploration if properly planned. This is even as the sector has been constrained mainly by the insufficient exploration investment which has led to underperformance of the sector and consequent loss of economic opportunities. But Minister of Solid Mineral, Dr. Kayode Fayode, who was the lead speaker at the Summit, has disclosed that the sector is undergoing radical structural reforms to allow for maximal exploitation, in view of its potential in diversifying the national economy. As part of the reforms, mineral titles and permits are being granted by a new mining cadastre system. The solid minerals sector can become a major player in the economy in the coming decades and serve as a key driver in the quest for sustained economic growth and contribute significantly to the GDP. This optimism is based on the premise that other developing nations in African, Asia and

Latin America have benefitted immensely by investing in the solid minerals sector, and this has led to economic and social developments of these nations. This is coming as other speakers at the summit, themed; “Nigeria beyond the Oil Economy,” said that the dwindling revenue coming to Nigeria from oil has made it imperative for her citizens to explore the opportunities that abound in the agricultural sector. The Chairman of agriculture session at the summit, Chief Operating Officer of BiCourtney Aviation Service, Mrs. Adebisi Awoniyi, regretted that inadequate information about the sector has really effected the youth in going to agriculture; hence people do not have enough knowledge of its potentials. Lagos State Commissioner for Housing and former Agriculture Commissioner of the state, Mr. Gbolahan Lawal, represented by Senior Partner, OIT Fash Consult, Dr. Rotimi Fashola, said that there are 70 varieties of rice in the country which have not been effectively harnessed in rice production. He added that if the 70 varieties of rice in

Fayemi

the country can be commercialized, before 2018, Nigeria would be self-sufficient in rice production, adding that the local rice cannot be compared with the imported ones because they are rich in nutrients. He added that the people needed education on agriculture production because many who would want to invest in the sector do not know how and what to do. Lawal further described as old fashioned the movement of cattle from place to place in search of grazing and urged government to provide grazing areas. He called for adequate infrastructural investment to support the sector including post harvest processing and storage facilities. According to him, over 70 per cent of tomatoes brought from the farms are wasted as result of the lack of facilities to preserve them in the country, and he advised Nigeria investors to invest in the preservation of agriculture products. He further disclosed that the collapse of the textile industry in Nigeria was a death blow on cotton farming in the country, saying that if the cotton farms are resuscitated and the textiles firms return, about 100,000 jobs will be created in the sector alone. On agriculture financing, he called on the banks to wake up from their slumber as there are fewer and fewer projects to be financed in the oil and gas sector, saying that they should look towards the direction of the agriculture financing. Another agriculture expert at the event, Mr. Boniface Chizea, called for continuity in government policies for the sector to witness growth. He added that people from other countries in Africa were coming to Nigeria to learn what the former minister; Dr. Akinwunmi Adeshina did to transform agriculture in the country.

tocks dropped around the world, while U.S. shares erased declines, as the dollar extended gains into a fifth day, with the potential for higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve again roiling financial markets as the Easter vacation looms. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ended little changed, with the benchmark gauge posting its first weekly decline in six, while European shares fell every day this week. The Bloomberg Commodity Index had its worst week in two months, with oil sliding below $40 a barrel. The dollar strengthened against all 16 major peers but two, as Treasuries fell. After upsetting markets in August and again in early February, the prospect of higher U.S. interest rates is returning to the spotlight, as regional Federal Reserve presidents indicate support for higher rates as soon as economic data warrant. While the Fed’s recent halving of its projection for this year’s increases spurred stock gains and depressed the dollar, the more bullish tone from officials is now supporting a surge in the greenback that’s hurting the mostly dollar-denominated commodity market. “The market is seeing a little bit of a pause in momentum,” said Kevin Caron, a Florham Park, New Jersey-based market strategist and portfolio manager who helps oversee $180 billion at Stifel Nicolaus & Co. “Now we’re looking ahead at what drives us beyond what central-bank actions have been able to curry so far. We don’t really have a catalyst right now.”

Buhari

FG uncovers N123bn fraudulent payments

he Federal Government has said that the committee set up by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to investigate the awarding of security contracts from 2011 to 2015 has found as much as N123 billion ($618 million) in fraudulent payments, saying it hopes to recover the full amount before the committee rounds off it work. Senior Special Assistant to the President of Media and Publicity, Shehu Garba, said that the probe has already recovered more than N7 billion with N41 billion to be repaid by companies accused of failing to complete projects or for overbilling on contracts. Shehu said in a statement that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has been ordered to investigate some of the 300 contractors identified in the probe to determine if another N75 billion should be recovered. The committee found a “total disregard” for the government’s award-granting process, and that the contractors included “serving and retired officers of the armed forces,” the statement said. Sambo Dasuki, the National Security Adviser to Buhari’s predecessor, President Goodluck Jonathan, is facing charges related to alleged misappropriation of $2.1 billion meant for weapons procurement following a similar presidential probe.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business

PTOL loses at Federal High Court J

Chief Executive Officer, Emzor Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Dr. Stella Okoli (m), being presented with an edition of PharmaTimes by the Chairman, Editorial Board, Mr. Victor Amuta (l), with Mr. Chris Ukah, Publisher, during a courtesy visit to the corporate office of the company

Nigerian bond yields rise after rate hike

igerian bond yields spiked across the curve after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) unexpectedly tightened monetary policy in an aboutturn to curb inflation and attract foreign investors. The Central Bank on Tuesday raised its benchmark rate to 12 per cent from 11 per cent, having cut rates only four months ago by 2 percentage points, and lifted the cash reserve ratio for commercial banks to 22.5 per cent from 20 per cent. Yields on the benchmark 20-year bond rose 55 basis points (bps) to 12.7 per cent while the 10-year yield climbed 45 bps to 12.65 per

cent. The yield on five-year paper, the most liquid maturity, gained 41 bps to 11.7 per cent. "The MPC has signalled a tightening and rates have gone up. Lenders can place their funds with the central bank at 7 per cent so why buy treasury bills at lower yields?" one trader said. On Tuesday, central bank governor, Godwin Emefiele, said extra liquidity had not translated into more lending and cited inflation, at a 3-1/2-year high of 11.4 percent last month, and well above the central bank target of 6 per cent to 9 per cent. Nigeria is going through its worst economic crisis for years due to a slump

in crude prices which has weakened the naira currency and slashed government revenue. Oil exports account for about 70 per cent of national income. Banks were quoting 10 per cent on the interbank overnight lending market, a jump from Tuesday's 4.8 per cent before the Central Bank rate decision. There were no deals on Wednesday. The stock market, which has the second-biggest weighting after Kuwait on the MSCI frontier market index, bucked two day of gains to shed 1.19 per cent, as domestic funds switch to bonds, traders said. Traders estimated the new cash reserve require-

ment will soak up between N350 billion and N400 billion. The Central Bank is also selling N114.97 billion in treasury bills to further drain liquidity. The Central Bank vowed to keep the exchange rate stable despite sharp falls on the black market - some 40 per cent below the official rate - due to a shortage of dollars. "Part of the Central Bank's intention in the rate hike is to attract foreign portfolio flow (FPI). However, I do not think this will be achieved because the forex policy is unchanged. Until this happens, we will see very little FPIs," Vetiva Capital's head of research, Pabina Yinkere, said.

Its ‘insane' if Nigeria’s currency policy stays - Unilever

igeria would be misguided to persist with currency policies that have led to a record difference between the naira’s official and black-market rates, according to the local head of Unilever Plc. “It would be very insane to continue like this for months and months,” Unilever’s Africa President Bruno Witvoet said in a recent interview at a conference in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire’s commercial capital. Clarity on what the “right rate” is would help businesses “make more sensible decisions,” he said. The Central Bank of Africa’s biggest economy and oil producer introduced

capital controls and restrictions on some imports in a bid to prop up the naira, which has been effectively pegged at 197-199 against the dollar since March 2015. Those measures have deterred foreign investment and led to a scarcity of dollars, with the black-market exchange rate falling to around 325 per dollar. President Muhammadu Buhari has backed the Central Bank’s stance and ruled out devaluation on the grounds it would cause prices to rise. That’s already happening, with inflation surging to a three-year high of 11.4 per cent in February from 9.6 percent the previous month. President Buhari said in a

speech on Monday that the hard-currency squeeze is “a temporary phase which we shall try to overcome.” Governor Godwin Emefiele said on Tuesday the Central Bank of Nigeria is committed to currency stability, though it noted concerns about foreignexchange shortages. The Central Bank was in consultations with stakeholders on ways to improve foreign-exchange supplies, he said, after the Monetary Policy committee unexpectedly raised the policy rate by 1 percentage point to 12 per cent. “Nigeria has a lot of opportunity and Unilever Nigeria is a locally listed company with a great fu-

ture where over 90 per cent of our sales are produced within Nigeria,” Witvoet said. “We’ve invested over $150 million in recent years with ongoing investment in our brands and facilities such as our new tea packing operation.” Other foreign-owned companies, including Nestle SA’s Nigerian unit, are having to approach more banks to get around the scarcity. “We just widened our number of banks to source forex,” Kais Marzouki, Nestle’s chief executive officer for West and Central Africa, said in an interview in Abidjan on Tuesday. “So far we have been able to manage.”

ustice Saliu Saidu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos has struck out a suit filed by Port and Terminal Operators Nigeria Limited (PTOL) against the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) and Attorney-General (AG) of the Federation. In the suit, PTOL alleged that since October, 2013 vessels meant for their jetty were diverted to another terminal concessioned to Intels Nigeria Limited by the NPA and prayed the court to stop such diversions. However, Justice Saidu struck out the case on grounds that his court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain such matter since the NPA Act reserved such matters for the Court of Arbitration. Meanwhile, Intels is joined in the suit on grounds that the outcome of the case would impact directly on its business activities. It will be recalled that PTOL filed originating summons and vide a Motion Ex-parte brought before Justice Saliu Saidu obtained an order of Interim Injunction on May, 20, 2015. The injunction restrained the defendants from diverting two vessels meant for the

plaintiff’s terminal and any other vessel meant for the plaintiff’s terminal, pending the hearing of the originating summons. PTOL’s case is premised on the fact that they are the Lessee of Terminal ``A" Port Harcourt by virtue of a Concession Agreement between the company and the Federal Government. Under the said agreement, PTOL claimed that it is entitled to receive vessels and cargoes of all descriptions into its terminal. PTOL also alleged that since October. 2013, NPA has been diverting vessels meant for their terminal to another terminal concessioned to Intels on the grounds that cargoes and pipes and dismantled rigs are classified as oil and gas cargo. Following the PTOL suit, NPA filed a Motion on Notice seeking an order of the court to dismiss the entire suit for want of jurisdiction on the grounds that no pre-action notice was issued to the first defendant. NPA submitted that lack of pre-action notice is in ``contravention of Section 92(1) of the NPA Act, Cap. N126, LFN, Vol. 12.

NASS probes MTN fine

he National Assembly has launched a probe into whether the telecoms regulator can reduce a fine slapped on South Africa's MTN for missing a deadline to disconnect unregistered SIM card users, it has been reported. The move might complicate efforts by Africa's biggest cell phone operator to reduce the fine, which had originally amounted to $5.2 billion. In December, the telecoms regulator NCC reduced the fine to $3.9 billion, but on Wednesday lawmakers in the lower house of parliament said the original fine could not be altered unless the law was amended. "For you to adjust the fine, you have to adjust the law, that is where I am finding difficulty," said Yakubu Dogara, Speaker of the House of Representatives, according to parliament's minutes seen by Reuters. The house launched a probe after lawmaker Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma asked, in a motion read out by Dogara, for the MTN fine to be more than tripled to $15.6 billion. Agbonayinma also demanded that MTN face criminal charges, saying the firm's failure to disconnect users SIM cards had led to the death of some 10,000 Nigerians as criminals had used the unregistered cards,

according to the motion. MTN had angered the house by snubbing an invitation to its Nigeria Chief Executive Ferdi Moolman to appear at the telecoms committee, a lawmaker said. Instead of sending Moolman, MTN issued a letter telling lawmakers "appropriate government agencies ... are in a position to furnish your committee with relevant information on this issue," lawmakers said, according to the minutes. MTN said in a statement it was aware of "reports out of Nigeria about the fine" and was awaiting clarity from the West African nation's government. The NCC could not immediately be reached for comment. Shares in MTN, which makes about 37 per cent of its sales in Nigeria, were down 10 per cent. MTN earlier this month offered to pay $1.5 billion, according to a document seen by Reuters. And it dropped a legal case against the regulator as the first step in its efforts to reach an out of court settlement. Last year the government imposed a deadline on mobile operators to cut off unregistered SIM cards, which MTN missed, amid fears the lines were being used by criminal gangs, including militant Islamist group Boko Haram.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

Business/ INTERVIEW

Sellers of substandard products deserve death penalty - SON DG As the new acing Director-General of SON what are your plans for the agency? When I took over as the acting Directorgeneral, the question people asked me often was what I intend to do to improve the agency. I understand that what I am going to do is to create an impact or make SON impact on the people. That question keeps coming from people, I wonder and ask myself, ‘what else is there to do that we have not done as a regulator?’ We have done so much over the last few years but I tell you something that people hardly notice that SON exists. And some people have been coming to me with one proposal or the other on how to put the agency on the public space. When I tell them, look we spent more than 70 per cent of our annual earnings on publicity and nobody notices that we are there. We have name recognition problem and I am beginning to wonder, where we got it wrong. I will tell you one thing I am doing; there will be much that will be done to Nigerians with regards to ensuring substandard products are not sold in our markets. We will not operate outside our brief; we cannot do what is outside what we are supposed to do, but the difference will be in our modus operandi now. We will now do differently the same things we have been doing in the past. But key for me this time is the new government’s change mantra, how are we going to key into it. Of course in the context and content of our work, there is a lot we are going to do to key into the new government’s agenda. We believe that if the government’s anti-corruption programme will check corruption in this country, and that will change a lot of things in the country; the economy will grow and people will have jobs. I think for us in this country, even electricity will become stable because we have all the resources and we have the required expertise. In Africa, Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of experts in any sector you can think of. But we are held down by corruption. I am keying into the change mantra, and one of the things they are say-

Angya

Acting Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Paul Angya, in this interview with STANLEY IHEDIGBO, advocates death penalty for dealers in fake and substandard products. Excerpts: ing is that we must kill corruption before it kills us. And I tell you, dealing in substandard products is by no means better than being an armed robber. Because one single substandard product sold to an unsuspecting consumer can result in the death of thousands of people whereas, if you steal a million dollars, yes you steal the money and the nation will lose a bit we are alive, and can recover the money from the thief, which is what the country is trying to do now, recovering the stolen money, but those who have died using substandard products like fake electrical cables, substandard tyres - are dead forever. If you look at the building sector, you will see how the use of substandard building materials, have resulted to building collapses. Those people who are dead cannot come back again, is that not worse than stealing? Anybody who is dealing on substandard products is so corrupt and I will advocate for death penalty. Because that form of corruption is the worst kind of corruption and we in SON intend to key into the government’s change mantra, to stamp out dealers of substandard products in the country. People who are dealing in substandard products in Nigeria are agents of death in the country, and we want to key in to the a n t i - c o rruption p r o -

gramme with the new government to improve our industrial products and our economy as well, therefore building in the national growth. For me, that is the different thing we will be doing this time around. What are your plans to achieve your targeted objectives looking at that some of the SON officials have been accused of being corrupt? When I came on board in February, the first thing I did was to engage with the staff of the agency and for me the staff engagement is key. How do you get staff to perform optimally? You cannot get improved or quality output, unless you have the people to do it. SON has some of the best brains in the government agencies in the country because standardization is not taught in school, but it is only when you work in the standardization body that you are trained on the job, you can become an expert on standardization by undergoing these trainings. So, is a sector that has core experts but they have not been able to give their best, perhaps because, we have not maximized the capacity of our staff and we not stimulated productivity welfare, training and retraining, giving people opportunity to do what they are train to do. The next thing is making ourselves available to serve Nigerians, in a place where we have not been able to reach. SON facilities are only in major cities, which has made it impossible for the

Our vision is to get facilities closer to people, so that they can key in to this new vision and be able to export their agriculture produce

people to access and verify the standard of their products. What measure would you put in place to address the situation? Expansion of SON facilities across the country will be key during my time in office; of course we are present in all the states of federation and Abuja. I was in the National Assembly and we are talking about our laboratory projects that exist in some cities like Lagos, Enugu and so on as you rightly mentioned and the chairman of the committee asked me what about Kano, Kaduna and Bornu states, whether I am expecting that somebody will take a product from those states to Sokoto State to test. Of cause I told them that Rome was not built in a day but that justifies our vision to take our facilities to all parts of the country, so that they will be available to the people. You will be hearing from me later, our projects in laboratory accreditation and testing and certification which will help to grow the non-oil sector. You can only do that by having accredited laboratories and having these laboratories test and certify products. And if we have them only in Lagos, Enugu and so on, the man who is producing grains in Sokoto and Katsina states will have to move them down to Lagos to have those grains tested for export. So, our vision is to get facilities closer to those people, so that they can key in to this new vision and be able to export their agriculture produce. We are engaging in interagency interaction and synergy because no one is an island and government business is not exclusive. What we are supposed to do is to key into what the next person is doing. And for us at SON, we are like a raw material and finished product because we do the standard and enforce the standard because of the nature of our country but elsewhere the standard organisation has no business with enforcement. People embraced standards in those places, but in Nigeria, we check standards and other agencies take it up from there like the Consumer Protection Council, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Nigeria Communication Commission and other and all these agencies are enforcing standards but we are the core of standardization agency in the country. You did not mention the Nigerian Customs Service as one of the government agencies you are synergising with; in view of the important role it plays at the entering point of the imported products, what is the relationship between your agency and it? We have met with the Comptroller General of Customs and we mentioned few of our challenges in doing our job at the ports. We quickly turned the courtesy call into a technically session and he invited all his management and I went with my management, we had over one hour of discussion and we set up a joint task force between SON and Customs to work on the issues raised at the meeting, with a view to charting a way forward to enable the both of us discharge our duties. I believe in the few weeks’ time you will see a difference and change, even the substandard products that usually slips into the country because of the cooperation we are receiving from the customs will soon be a thing of the past.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business

RiMIDAN hails import ban of rice from land border

Stanley Ihedigbo resident of Rice Millers, Importers and Distributors Association of Nigeria (RiMIDAN), who doubles as the National Chairman of the Association of Rice Investors, Mr. Tunji Owoeye, has commended the Federal Government for listening to the voice of reason and banning the importation of rice through land borders, saying the policy would remove the major obstacles faced by the local rice producers. Owoeye said that the government was now ready for economic diversification by promoting local rice production through policy reversal and other intervention supports. Owoye who is also the Managing Director of Elephant Group, a rice milling firm, said that the biggest challenge to rice farmers in the country had been re-

moved by the government. He said that the initial lifting of the ban by the Comptroller General of Customs, Colonel Hameed Ali (rtd), had boosted smuggling of the grain from the neighbouring countries, which enhanced the revenue generation of those countries which also imported the rice. "This was our stand before, but the government claimed that we should allow goods to move freely within ECOWAS countries into Nigeria. "Secondly, the government believed that our much needed revenues would be generated from land borders. Meanwhile, from our experience, we let the government know that we don’t have the capacity to track all the rice that enters the country through the land borders because our borders are porous,” he said. Owoeye further disclosed that both the feder-

Optometrists hold capacity building workshop T o further rev up the widely applauded complementary Eye-Care service that optometrists provide the Nigerian public, N-CONSULT and Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), recently gathered no fewer than 250 registered operators in Lagos for a capacity building conference and practical demonstration workshop. The gathering was aimed at sustaining the laudable developments that have become the lot of the profession since Decree No 34 of 1989 affirmed optometry as a healthcare profession specializing in the art and science of vision care. The N-CONSULT and ODORBN conference also aimed to further advance the professional interests of optometrists which for some inexplicable reasons, older healthcare professionals as well as entrenched quacks that have dominated the industry have tried to stifle without success. As it has been the norm with the leading lights of the profession since its birth

Optical equipment

to carefully single out and address the most critical issues affecting practitioners one after the other, the conference address three critical issues. The first was unity of purpose. Here, the conference strove to wield the growing number of practicing optometrists together into one united front under ODORBN, to speak with one voice and continue to fight for their collective interests and completely retrieve their profession from charlatans. The second issue the conference dealt with was effective management of conferee’s professional practice as a business distinct from the practitioners themselves. And the third and by no means less important, was the art of contact lens fitting; a growing trend in society particularly among elites that requires care because of the sensitivity of the eye. The conference ended with a demonstration workshop session where trending optometric equipments that NCONSULT deployed to the venue were practically used to teach attendees.

al and states’ government have also been supporting farmers along rice value chains with various intervention funds made available to farmers through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at single-digit interest rate. He explained that the

farmers have been benefiting from those funds such as especially in the Northern part of the country where there were larger number of rice farmers who also enjoyed advantage of irrigation. He added that through the intervention support,

many moribund rice mills across the country have been revived and were fully operational. He assured that with the massive interventions and supports from the government, CBN, Bank of Agriculture, Bank of Industry (DFI) and other bod-

ies, the insufficient gap in the rice production in the country would be drastically reduced to the barest minimum before the end of this present administration of President Mohammadu Buhari and the country would be closed to selfsufficient.

LOC members with some of the awardees at the 86th UBAA national council meeting dinner and awards, in Lagos...recently

UNIBEN Alumni to offer automatic employment to best graduates

Stanley Ihedigbo

s part of its contribution towards nation building, the University of Benin Alumni Association (UBAA), Lagos branch has promised to offered automatic employment to best graduating students from the school every year. Speaking at the 86th UBAA’s national council meeting dinner and awards programme in Lagos recently, the President of the association, Hon. Ifaluyi Isibor, said that they came up with such measure to provide as their own way to help ameliorate the unemployment situation in the country. He added that the alumni association would contribute to nation building by encouraging, identifying and projecting those students who have excelled in their academy performance. In his remark the Chairman of UBAA, Lagos branch, Mr. Emmanuel Oriazuwa , said that the University of Benin as the citadel of academic excellence, strives for excellence and honours excellence, adding that his group is honouring those who have excelled in

their various professions. He said that nation building requires the best minds to take up active roles in policy formulations and implementation. He urged all members of the group to take in the various projects of the association as part of their socio-responsibility and service to humanity, saying a 1,000 sitting capacity lecture theatre built by the alumni association for the university, has spurred the UBAA family to do more.

While the special guest speaker, Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, who was represented by former commissioner of finance , Lagos State, Prince Rotimi Oyekan , said that as far the university is concerned, it can hold her head high and say she has undeniably produced great people. “I know this because many of them who have served in government, have laboured selflessly and pas-

sionately in turning the wheels of progress in our nation. Many of them are also performing brilliantly in their chosen fields. This is what makes a university worth all the effort, the quality of human capital that it produces and their impact on their society. “The value of a university does not lie in its location, or its lecturers or its aesthetic appeal. Its true values lies in its ethos; the set of values it is able to imbibe in those pass through it,” he said.

PlayBox launches athensa in Nigeria P layBox has launched a business model called Athensa in Nigeria, saying that it is the next indisputable logical step in the further development of PlayBox technology. Speaking with newsmen in Lagos, recently, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of PlayBox, Vassil Lefterov, said the broadcast technology standards and demands are rapidly changing and that change also applies to the way any business is conducted. He said that in response to these demands, “we

launched the Athensa business model where we now delegate the system integration part of the business to be handled by our certified partners. This allows us to focus all our energies and expertise entirely on the development of our next generation of cutting-edge technology and substantially extend the variety of broadcast solutions provided ultimately to our customers,” he said. According to him, the product is offering its partnering companies equal opportunities with its pric-

ing structure. "The ‘No Geography Constraints” policy lets end users pick their system integration vendor from anywhere in the world and allows them to use both Athensa certified, as well as proprietary certified hardware video server configurations. He explained that the bundles and products are powered by Athensa software modules and this is our inventive way of providing a huge variety of flexible server solutions, uniquely adapted to the various market niches.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

Auto beat Motoring tips Tips for a safe and polite drive this Easter

Mercedes Maybach S-Class unveiled Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

ercedes-Benz continues to deliver on its brand promise to provide the best in automobiles with the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class which was officially unveiled in Abuja last week by Barbedos Cars Limited; one of Weststar’sAuthorised Dealers for Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines stylish, effortless superiority with trend-setting exclusivity and features distinctive characteristics that set the Maybach apart from its standard production model, which include more space, special seats, lavish designs and prestigious interior. Unveiling the newest addition to the luxury family, Mrs. Elisabeth Itegbe - General Manager, Weststar Associates Limited, mentioned that the much anticipated Mercedes-Maybach has finally made its first appearance in the Barbedos Showroom in Abuja. ‘Safety is at the forefront in the manufacture of all Mercedes-Benz

vehicles, and the Maybach S-Class is no exception. The model has a number of innovative assistance systems that make driving more comfortable and safer.The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection, Adaptive High beam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus are part of the Intelligent Drive systems. In her words: “The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is truly in a class of its own; rugged yet with class and luxury." According to the event host himself - Alhaji Kashim Shettima in a brief interview, said the new Mercedes-Maybach S-class is the first in its segment.“There is no doubt that passengers of the MercedesMaybach S-Class are enveloped in lounge style modern luxury. The Mercedes-Benz brand stands for the aspiration to deliver ‘The best’ in terms of products, technology and services. In the S-Class segment in particular, customers have very high expectations with regard to exclusivity and individuality and Mercedes-Maybach enables us further to fulfill these desires in the exclusive top segment of the market”. With the Mercedes-Maybach, it is clear

that Mercedes made a strategic decision for its newest Maybach badges. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class extends the range of S-Class Saloon models with the addition of a vehicle in the luxury segment: the generous interior and extended wheelbase, which fully benefits the rear compartment, create maximum spaciousness and the use of fine materials and quality appointments makes the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class an impressive chauffeur vehicle for demanding customers throughout the world. Maybach Motorenbau was a German manufacturing car company founded in 1909 by Wilhelm Maybach and his son. It was, however, acquired by Daimler Benz in 1960, and now the Maybach is a luxury car brand of Mercedes-Benz. Expanding the current range of S-Class Saloons and setting a new benchmark for exclusivity that meets even the most discerning of requirements in terms of its appointments, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class was born. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is available with exceptional aftersales service from Barbedos Cars Limited.

Volkswagen delivers 1.54m vehicles in 2 months

he Volkswagen Group handed over 1.54 million vehicles to customers in January and February 2016, a rise of 1.4 per cent. At 693,300 units, Group deliveries in February almost matched the prior-year level. “The Volkswagen Group and its brands made a stable start to the new year. Europe in particular saw positive development in February. However, the situation remains tense in some regions. The overall economic situation in Brazil, for example, is still challenging,” Fred Kappler, Head of Group Sales at Volkswagen, said. The Volkswagen Group delivered 312,000 new vehicles to customers in Europe in February, an increase of 5.7 per cent compared with the previ-

ous year. Western Europe in particular developed well (+6.5 per cent), with strong momentum coming above all from the home market of Germany (+7.7 per cent) and the markets in Southern Europe. The markets in Central and Eastern Europe also recorded slight growth in this period, but the continued tense situation in Russia (-17.0 per cent) had a negative impact. The company delivered 123,400 vehicles in the North America region during the first two months of the year. 37,700 new vehicles (-7.2 per cent) were registered in the

United States, the region’s largest single market, in February. 34,100 units were handed over to customers in the South America region in the same month, of which 21,700 were delivered in Brazil. The downturn on the South American market continues as a result of the poor overall economic situation in Brazil. Deliveries in China were affected by the late Chinese New Year. At 227,400 units, the Volkswagen Group maintained deliveries at approximately the same level as the previous year. In total, new registrations in the Asia-Pacific region in January and February rose by 5.7 per cent.

igerians love to travel home for the holidays. Family is what is valued most. Whether you are driving to Lagos, Ibadan, Kaduna, Jos, Port Harcourt, Kano or Benin City, in-car bickering is not what you should be hearing when you are on the road – it only spoils your trip, and wreaks havoc on relationships. Whether stuck in traffic or riding for hours Easter travels can potentially turn family fun into a family feud. To help ease the stress this Easter, Ford Motor Company is offering some good travelling advice for a fun and safe driving experience. Some simple car courtesies and safe driving practices can make travel more enjoyable for both the driver and the passengers. From polite passenger etiquette to considerate use of new vehicle technologies, these easy tips will have families road-tripping happily this season. Travel etiquette Visit a quick lane. Lagos residents can visit the Yaba Quick Lane before starting their Easter journeys around Nigeria. It provides quick vehicle maintenance and light repairs. If you are not a resident of Lagos, visit the Quick Lane as a stop during or at the end of your journey. You do not have to drive a Ford vehicle to benefit from this service. Ford and Coscharis Motors will open more Quick Lanes around Nigeria in 2016. Travelling with family Avoid the stress of the incessant “are we there yet?” conversations by building an itinerary and communicating your plans. Talk about stops for food and restroom breaks so everyone knows what to expect. Kids can follow along, track progress, and anticipate their favourite spots – even figure out arrival times on their own. Don’t play the passive passenger. If you’re lucky enough to be sitting in the front passenger seat on a long journey, assist your driver through helpful communication. Be sure to stay alert and keep an eye out for road signs (do try to refrain from tweeting too often or refreshing your Instagram feed every five seconds.). Above all, avoid all comments on how your chauffeur is driving – no one likes a back seat driver, especially when road conditions turn stressful! Control distractions We all want to hear our favourite karaoke number on a long road trip, but a distracted driver is a safety hazard. As a polite passenger, defer to your chauffeur and offer to play DJ or navigate the control screen to make their job easier. If the kids in the back have their own entertainment setup, make sure they keep “The Wheels on the Bus” at a noise level that doesn’t distract the driver. Do not speed Do not drink and drive. According to the most recent statistics from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), 30 per cent of road accidents are caused by drunk driving and speeding. The World Health Organisation’s 2015 Global Status Report on Road Safety also reports that Nigeria accounts for the highest fatalities with 33.7 per cent per 100 000 of the population every year on road traffic deaths in selected African countries. This means it has the second worst traffic fatalities in the world.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Molly’s Easter Hen Annie Willis McCullough

hen Molly came in from the chicken house, she looked very sad. “O dear me!” she sighed. “I’m so disappointed!” “What is it, sunny girl?” asked mother. “Red Top hasn’t laid an egg, and tomorrow is Easter. I shut Red Top in all by herself, so I should know that it was her very own egg, and she hasn’t laid any.” “But the other hens have. We shall have plenty of Easter eggs to colour,” said mother. “But I was going to take one of Red Top’s eggs to Auntie Brooke for Easter,” said Molly, dismally. “Wouldn’t any other egg do?” asked mother. “It wouldn’t be half so nice,” replied Molly. “Auntie Brooke gave me Red Top, and this is the

first Easter since I had her. I told Auntie Brooke I was going to bring her one of Red Top’s eggs for Easter.” “You shouldn’t count on Easter eggs before they are laid,” said her mother. “I am sure Auntie Brooke will understand if you take her another egg. You may color it pink, and I will let you have some gilding, so that you can mark her name on it. It will be a beautiful Easter egg.” Molly tried to smile. All day she kept going out to where Red Top was, to see whether the expected egg had been laid. That, and the work of colouring eggs for the family, kept her busy all day. The pink eggs were beautifully coloured, but she would not gild Auntie Brooke’s name on one. “I have a plan,” she said. “I

Maths photo

believe I’ll have an Easter egg for Auntie Brooke, after all, mother.” On Easter morning Molly ran out into the hen-house before anyone else was awake. After breakfast she slipped away; she carried a covered basket and walked very fast. First she went through the green lane that led from their house to the road, and then along the road until she came to Auntie Brooke’s. The lane was all trimmed with beautiful spring flowers for Easter, and the trees beside the road were full of birds, all singing Easter songs. She went through Auntie Brooke’s squeaky gate and along the gravel path to the side door. An old lady with a sweet face sat out on the doorstep.

Crossword puzzle Photo speaks

Yegben dance in Ijebu land, Ogun State

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016

NSEASI advances by 0.80% WtD

he Nigerian Equities Market recorded a positive outing during the week ended (+0.80% WtD) despite the sell sentiments that pervaded trading activities, thus pegging YtD return at -9.57%. The NSEASI advanced on three (3) out of four (4) trading days in the week, with strong negative sentiments observed after the Monetary Policy Committee’s upward review of the policy rate by 100bp, which resulted in a negative showing on the third trading day of the week. Market breadth (0.57x) favoured the week’s thirty seven (37) decliners as against twenty one (21) advancers, while total market turnover and volume of transactions increased by +14.43% and +43.65% respectively. Market capitalization settled at NGN8.91tn. The week’s top performer was UCAP (+17.65%) as it closed the week at NGN2.00, while FIDELITYBK, NB, VITAFOAM, and TRANSCORP recorded respective gains of 14.17%, 12.10%, 10.02%, and 6.25%. On the flip side, AFRIPRUD (-21.56%), NASCON (-14.21%), CADBURY (-14.13%), TIGERBRANDS (-12.07%), and HONYFLOUR (-11.11%) steered the laggards. Owing to the 100bp hike in MPR, announced after the conclusion of the MPC meeting on Tuesday, 22nd Mar. 2016, we expect increased level of activities in the fixed income space, which might consequently impact negatively on investor sentiments towards the equities market. We anticipate pockets of sell sentiments owing to continued investor reaction to the MPC’s decision, coupled with profit-taking activities on counters that have rallied relative to the depressed levels observed in the earlier part of the year. Nonetheless, we expect position taking for investors aiming to pick up dividend distributions, especially in the concluding week of the earnings season. On the back of these, we expect trading activities on the equities market to reflect mixed sentiments in the coming week. This report reviews events in the current week, with emphasis on different segments of the financial market, while presenting our expectations for the coming week. Fixed Income Update: Market performance reflects MPC decision The rates in the interbank space sustained a northward trend in the week, with average NIBOR climbing to 12.20% (+3.35% WoW). A similar trend was witnessed at the Money Market (MM) space, as the OBB and OVN rates climbed by 7.92% and 8.08% respectively, to peg average MM rate at 13.04%. The increases witnessed in the money market space may be attributed to the MPC’s decision to increase CRR by 250bps to 22.50%. There was a good level of demand for Treasury bills instruments at the start of the week, however, yields climbed by the end of the week due to a re-pricing of assets instigated by the MPC’s decision to review the MPR upwards to 12%. Consequently, the average yield across instruments climbed by 0.79% WoW to 7.67%. In furtherance to the fixed income asset repricing during the week, demand for Treasury bond instruments weakened, pressuring the average bond yield upwards by 0.23% WoW to 11.29%. We expect the current trend to be sustained in the near term until the average yield pegs in a tight band around the 12% range. Naira strengthened against the US Dollar, appreciating by 0.14% WoW to peg its midprice at NGN198.50/USD. The local currency also appreciated by 0.61% WoW in the parallel market, settling at NGN325/USD. Agric. Sector: No gainers for the week, YtD pegs at 3.70% The Agric sector, as measured by the performance of our MERI-AGRI index (-2.36%

…despite prevalence of sell sentiments

WtD), ended the week in the negative territory. Based on the index, the sector’s year-to-date return pegged at 3.70% at the close of the week. No counter gained weekon-week, while two stocks recorded price declines and others traded flat. LIVESTOCK (-1.75%) and OKOMUOIL (-4.99%) recorded declines over the course of the week, while ELLAHLAKES, FTNCOCOA and PRESCO, traded flat WoW. We opine that some sector players may be insulated from the direct impact of the recent 100bp hike in MPR on business operations, considering that the sector is favorably positioned to benefit from the current administration’s economic diversification drive. We however emphasize the need to assess stock fundamentals before position taking. Banking Sector: Remains pressured as results flows temper The Banking sector consolidated on its two-week gaining streak, after advancing by 0.89% this week. Consequently, our MERI-BNK index’s YtD performance advanced further to -12.61%. There were eight (8) gainers and five (5) decliners to peg the sector’s breadth at 1.60x. The gainers were led by FIDELITYBK (+14.17%), SKYEBANK (+3.13%), ETI (+2.72%), GUARANTY (+2.11%), ZENITHBANK (+1.64%). On the other side, FBNH (-8.77%) recorded the largest price decline, followed by DIAMONDNK, WEMABANK, UBN, STERLNBNK which recorded respective declines of -7.14%, -5.00%, -2.95%, -1.73%. Sterling bank Plc recorded growths in Gross earnings, PBT, and PAT of 6.28%, 2.50%, and 14.30% YoY accordingly. Also, the bank declared a dividend of NGN0.09/ share, which translates to a dividend yield

of 5.29% based on the current trading price. Also, qualification, closure and payment dates are scheduled for the 1st, 4th-8th, and 19th of April accordingly. Wema Bank Plc’s FY2015 numbers, showed that the bank recorded a growth in gross earnings of 8.55%. However, Profit-BeforeTaxes and Profit-After-Taxes declined by 1.56% and 1.90% YoY accordingly. The bank declared no dividend for the period. Also, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and Zenith Bank Plc have closure dates scheduled for the 29th of March, 2016. We expect that the sector might record a WoW decline in the coming week, as support recedes for prices of some stocks which declared good dividends. Hence, we advise cautious trading by investors in the coming week, as we are not expectant of many more good results from the banks which are yet to release results. Consumer Goods: Performance remains dull The damp mood within the Consumer Goods sector of the Nigerian Stock Exchange halted during the week, as the sector return pegged at 4.96% WtD based on the NSEFBT10 index. The year-to-date return of the sector settled at -14.35%. The sector breadth pegged at 1.14x, as eight (8) counters advanced while seven (7) declined during the week. NB was the highest gainer for the week, with week-to-date return of 12.10%. VITAFOAM, UNILEVER, NESTLE, UACN, INTBREW, GUINNESS, and DANGSUGAR also advanced by 10.02%, 4.99%, 3.02%, 2.99%, 2.14%, 1.62% and 0.87% accordingly week-on-week. Contrarily, the decliners’ chart featured NASCON, CADBURY, TIGERBRANDS, HONYFLOUR, CHAMPION, PZ, and DANGSUGAR with re-

spective week-to-date returns of -14.13%, -14.13%, -12.07%, -11.11%, -5.77%, -5.20%, and -3.39%. The sector continues to endure bearish sentiments from investors, exacerbated by the drab earnings releases amidst unoptimistic macro-economic fundamentals. We advise investors to restrict activities to fundamentally justified counters with considerable upside potentials, while also positioning for the long term. Health Sector: Bearish sentiment lingers Bearish investor sentiments continued on the sector counters in the week, as the MERI-HLTH index pared marginally by 0.03% WtD. There were two (2) decliners, while all other stocks traded flat. NEIMETH waned the most, paring by 8.33% WtD to peg its price at NGN0.66. The counter was trailed by FIDSON, which pared by 4.89% WtD to close at NGN2.53. We expect the current negative bias on the sector stocks to continue, as investors remain skeptical in respect of yet to be released corporate financials. Industrial goods: No sector gainer this week The industrial goods sector ended another week in the negative zone, following a 0.02% depreciation of the Meri-IND index. Due to the intensity of adverse sentiments in the sector, no stock recorded WoW gains. On the other hand, five (5) stocks depreciated in value by the close of the week. VANLLEER recorded the largest decline during the week ended, on the back of the 6.10% decrease in share price to N9.23. PAINTCOM, CUTIX, DANGCEM and WAPCO shed 3.85%, 3.80%, 0.61% and 0.06% to make up the list of decliners. Following the approval of the federal government’s 2016 budget, we expect capital funds channeled towards infrastructural development to impact positively on the topline of key building materials companies. On the back of this, we anticipate improved investor sentiments towards the sector as investors begin to take positions ahead of expected industry growth. Insurance Sector: LAWUNION sustains lead The insurance sector declined further this week, with the NSEINS10 waning by 1.65% WoW to peg the sector’s year to date loss to -10.10%. Market breadth (1.50x) skewed in favour of advancers, following three (3) stocks that appreciated in prices, as against two (2) decliners. LAWUNION sustained leadership position for the 2nd consecutive week, after the counter appreciated by 14.06% WoW to close at NGN0.73. Other top gainers included AIICO (+3.90%) and CUSTODYINS (+0.26%). Conversely, MANSARD led the week’s laggards, following an 8.88% WoW price decline to close at NGN1.95. Also, NEM recorded a 2.60% WoW loss to close at NGN0.75. We expect the current market trend to be sustained in the coming week, following the weak appetite towards insurance stocks, amidst a dearth of positive news inflows. Oil & Gas Sector: Bearish sentiments permeate sector stocks The sector’s performance as measured by the NSEOILG5 index, showed a 3.69% WtD decline, following investors skepticism as regards anticipated corporate actions and earnings releases by companies in the sector. There were four (4) decliners in the week, while all other counters traded flat. SEPLAT topped the laggards list, plunging by 9.09% WtD to close at NGN300.00. MOBIL, TOTAL, and ETERNA were the other losers, paring by 8.77%, 6.66%, and 1.12% correspondingly.

Business

Clinical Consultant pharmacist EMMANUEL A.NWANKWO

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

What is wine 4

agmerendis@yahoo.com

08148877648 (SMS only) What makes sparkling wines bubble?

The sparkles in sparkling wines are bubbles of carbondioxde, CO2 is a natural byproduct of fermentation process. Sometimes, a second fermentation is needed to trap more carbondioxide to make more bubbling in sparkling wines, thus more carbondioxde will carbonate the wine beverage to give it the bubble effect. So you should be careful when opening champagne to avoid build-up pressure from exploding. Which wine is rose wine?

Rose happens when the skins of red grapes touch wine just for a short time (hours). Rose wines are pink or blush coloured. This pink colour is due to the fact that the grape skin is included for just few hours of the fermentation process. Sometimes, Rose wine is a mixture of white and red wine. Rose wine can be very dry. But there are rose wines that are medium sweet and sweeter rose. Champagne is absorbed more quickly than non-sparkling wine. Champagne has been found to be most upsetting to stomach than wine. Champagne is acidic and bubbly. People have the right to know that all champagne are sparkling wine, but not all sparkly wine are champagne. What does the wine cage on top of the bottle of champagne do?

A champagne bottle has three times a car tires pressure so that the wine cage on top has a real purpose. Always remember to twist the bottle not the cork. Why do people drink wine more than

beer? 1. People have convinced themselves that wine is good for your mentality because wine has antioxidants and its sweetness. 2. Wine often gets better with age. As wines age, the natural substance found in grapes used in making the wine transforms into smooth tasty wine. 3. Wine may costs less and one can also afford it. 4. Wine just tastes better because our parents have been drinking it, ever since we were children. 5. Wine is sexier and more romantic. 6. Wine makes you sleep better than beer. 7. Red wine increases women’s libido according to a scientific study through subject to interpretation. According to Goldman Sacks research, the percentage of American youth in their twenties who prefer wine to beer has increased drastically from 15% in 1990 to 25% in 2014. Gallup’s annual alcohol consumption habit poll shows that Americans are now equally divided in their preference for beer or wine in 2013 36% for beer, 35% for wine and 23% for hard liquor. Gender and age play a major role in drinking of wine especially for women who prefer wine mostly white wine. 70% of women prefer white wine because they think that white wine contains less alcohol, clear in colour and more sexier which may not be correct. People have the right to know that there are basic standard in wine we drink. 1. Wine 2. Fortifies wine 3. Sparkling wine 4. Spirits ( hard liquor) 5. But the best drink is modera-

tion and abstinence. Why are we now drinking more wine in Nigeria?

According to market research of Euromonitor in 2014, wine growth in spite of bad economy still remains second in sales after beer in consumption. Also, according to Global Agricultural Information network, there is a strong growth in wine market in Nigeria due to Nigeria large population, increasing health awareness especially on the perceived benefit of red wine among Nigerians. The increased wine consumption is also due to inexpensive wine availability and affordability, increased social trends and exposure with other cultures of the world. Increased female consumption population, and desire for new types of alcoholic drink contributes because women now have earning power and are more classy. What do women want in wine?

Women want wines that are balanced, drinkable, enjoyable and easy to deal. Also because most women are peace makers and like to keep things in order. This is according to international women wine competition. Does NAFDAC Regulate the inflow of poor quality wine in Nigeria?

The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and NAFDAC have promoted a bill that will punish dealers of fake wines, juices, beer into the country (both importers and sellers). NAFDAC said that beside the challenges of corruption in daily regulation that they are doing their best, because it is learnt that for every original product in Nigeria. Its fake alternative is readily available in the market.

The psychology of success (2) Success Nuggets Victor Okwudiri 08037674300 (SMS only)

"Did you not know that investment is superior to saving? Did you not know that if you have just one naira left, it is better to invest it than save it? Did you not know that you should only save from your profit, after you have taken out your capital for continuity of business? "Because of your foolishness and wickedness, you are fired. Get out of my sight." LESSONS 1. Life is a test The servants did not know that their master, in giving them the talents, was only testing their business acumen. Friend, if we saw every experience we had as a test, we would have been more careful. Have you realised that when a classroom test is scheduled, even students who do not habitually read start reading seriously? Now, imagine how intelligent those students would have been if they made reading a lifestyle. That is how it is in life. Some of us only want to sit up or do things right when we are told we are watched. That is not right. We must see life as a test in itself. That consciousness will inject into us a sense of circumspection.

2. The potentials of anything are released when it is put to use. Of the three servants, two invested the portions of resources given to them, whereas one refused to invest his. Interestingly, only those who invested theirs were able to multiply theirs. The one who refused to invest could not multiply his one portion of talent. In fact, I dare say that his one portion of talent probably depreciated in value, taking into account possible currency devaluation. Friend, anything you do not put to use cannot grow. On the other hand, anything thing you use well and consistently will yield its potentials to you. It is not magic. It is a natural law. Even Doctors will tell you that any part of the body whose muscles are not exercised will become weak and possibly lean. Here is the secret: there is a 'curse' on the unused potential (resource). I do this column weekly. What it does to me is that, as I keep writing, my writing skills keep developing. I challenge you today to put your potentials to use. Invest them in a vision. Invest them in a project. What about your money? Invest it. It is good to have savings, but savings can only give you temporary SECURITY, not lasting PROSPERITY. Pause and ponder. 3. No resource is too small for a determined human will. The Junior Servant made a huge mistake in referring to the one portion of talent given to him as 'just' (i.e. being too small). Little wonder he did not invest it. He undermined the potentials of the 'one' talent. He was ignorant of the 'Law of the Naira,' which is to the effect that the value of any

currency is in a single unit of that currency, such that if one naira, for instance, is taken away from one million naira, the owner of that one million naira is no longer a millionaire. In driving home this point, I want you to note the following: (a) Our DECISIONS are informed by our PERCEPTIONS. What you call 'big' or 'small' is relative. The foolish Junior Servant who referred to his one portion of talent as 'just' failed to reason that his one portion of talent (let's call it one naira) is bigger than that of a person who has half a portion (fifty kobo). Friend, that potential or resource you have, which you probably underestimate, is more than what someone else who is doing exploits has. Why not start with what you have? (b) The TENACITY of your will is more important that the QUANTITY of your resources. Someone to whom one million naira was bequeathed, but who is not passionate about success, cannot do any better than someone to whom no inheritance was bequeathed, but who has the passion to succeed. Friend, I tell you today with no shadow of doubt that if you are determined to succeed, what you have is enough. Little wonder Bishop David Oyedepo was reported to have said that what you have is enough if you know what to do with it. Now, I challenge you: get into the field of life. Target the goal post (a vision). Keep at it until you score a goal. I celebrate you in advance. You will succeed. Please follow me on Twitter @VictorOkwudiri

BRIEFS

Promasidor awards open to all Nigerian journalists

he Promasidor Quill Awards is not meant for journalists based in Lagos and its environs alone but for all qualified writers across the country, Head, Legal/Public Relations, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, Mr. Andrew Enahoro has said. In an interview in Lagos on Friday, he advised journalists in every part of the country who have quality write ups and are yet to upload their entries for the awards to do so before the deadline of April 14, 2016. He warned that the company will not extend the entry window of the awards, which began in January 14, 2016. Enahoro acknowledged that Promasidor had already received many entries for the different categories of the awards; but expressed optimism that many more entries would still be uploaded before entry closes. The seven categories available for journalists to compete for this year are: Best Report on Children and Nutrition; Best CSR and Industry Report of the Year; Education Reporter of the Year; Best Photo Story of the Year; Future Writer of the Year; Brand Advocate of the Year; and Best Online Reporter of the Year. By providing the platform, Enahoro said Promasidor has judiciously done what it is supposed to do. His words: “It is now left for journalists in different parts of the country to benefit from the credible platform created by Promasidor Quill Awards. If you feel that your work is good enough to merit an award then, you put it in. That is what it is all about – to encourage and reward excellence”. Enahoro explained that Promasidor used the e-platform for the entry submission to take care of journalists who are outside Lagos and the South West region.

Pepsodent, NDA walk against cavity Appolonia Adeyemi

s part of activities lined up to celebrate this year’s World Oral Health Day Celebration, Pepsodent Toothpaste in partnership with the Nigerian Dental Association took to major streets of Lagos and sensitized Nigerians on the need to brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste based on the theme of this year’s event: ‘Brush Day and Night… Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body’. The Oral Health awareness walk kicked-off from Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Dentistry College Idi Araba through Ojuelegba to Jibowu and back to LUTH in the early hours of Tuesday March 15, with members of the dental community, employees of Unilever Nigeria Plc, dental students, dental practitioners and dental therapists in attendance. During the walk, educational materials, Pepsodent toothpaste and toothbrushes were handed over to commuters and residents within the neighbourhood of Surulere and Mushin Local Government areas of the city. Category Manager, Oral Care, Unilever Nigeria PLC, Bunmi Adeniba said that the oral health awareness walk is part of the Campaign of Unilever Nigeria Plc. through Pepsodent toothpaste, in conjunction with NDA for the World Oral Health Day and it is about getting people to brush day and night. She said: “The health awareness walk is to inform Nigerians that prevention is better than cure and as such we should take our oral health seriously. The brush day and night campaign is part of Unilever’s vision to improve lives of Nigerians and by 2020 we have a commitment to have impacted the life of 10 million children across the country.” Also speaking after the 10-kilometre Walk Against Cavity, the President, Nigerian Dental Association Dr. Olabode Ijarogbe said Nigerians should see their oral health as closely integrated with their general health system as the mouth is the gate way to the body and several oral diseases are related to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY march 27, 2016

my turning point I was a founding member of Bakassi Boys – Rev. Chidi Anthony p.48

Interview Nigerian Pastors are leading people to hell, says Kenyan Pastor

sermon

p.49

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FAITH

You shall embrace your own resurrection Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph online.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Nigeria will surely get better - Martins

Don’t be tired of sacrificing Rev. Gado

Pastor Muoka

-Clerics counsel Nigerians

Tai Anyanwu igerians have been urged to emulate the sacrificial life of Jesus Christ and shun selfishness and bigotry to rescue the country from total collapse. This counsel was given while ministers across the nation reflected on the essence of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as Christendom world over celebrate this year’s Easter season. Giving his Easter message to the nation, the president of ECWA Church in Nigeria, Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Gado noted that Easter is all about sacrifice. “I urge Nigerians to use this period to reflect on the importance of service, sacrifice and selflessness. Let us renounce greed, selfishness, self-centeredness and bigotry so that we can rescue our nation and make it more powerful,” he said. The General Overseer of the Lord Chosen Charismatic revival Church, Pastor lazarus Muoka, added that Easter is a special day pointing out that Christians all over the world are today demonstrating their appreciation for what our Lord Jesus Christ did for humanity. “He came and died a sacrificial death for our sin, was buried and on the third day resurrected in order to rescue us from the impending doom reserved for

us as a result of the sin of Adam and Eve. He laid down His life for the love He has for mankind and was not coerced into it for He has power to give it up on His own free will and the power to take it back,” Muoka said. Muoka added: His resurrection from death is the seal of freedom and victory for God’s people. This is what Easter is all about. His resurrection from death is the seal of freedom and victory for God’s people. This is what Easter is all about.” “So let us spend Easter reflecting on the life of Christ and the wonderful example of sacrifice which Jesus left for us to follow. We need to not tire of sacrificing for the Church and Nigeria,” Regional Secretary, IFES-EPSA, Gideon Para-Mallam urged. He observed that the nation needs incorruptible leaders not just in words but also in deeds and insisted that “We should not abdicate the responsibility of being salt and light as Jesus charged all believers to be so in society.” According to Para-Mallam, President Muhammadu Buhari alone cannot change and transform Nigeria but all must join hands together with him to achieve this under God and the Lordship of Jesus Christ over Nigeria. He added: “Leaving him alone to fail so we can quickly point fingers and say well, he is a Muslim and so forth

is an un-Christian attitude. I personally urge Christians to join hands and support the President to see a newly resurrected Nigeria emerges from the ruins of corruption and social decay.” Also speaking in the same vein, the Vice President of Still Water Church, Pastor Taiwo Odubiyi, said that the spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead is still at work and can turn bad situation and make them better. “His resurrection from death is the seal of freedom and victory for God’s people. This is what Easter is all about,” she said.

I urge Nigerians to use this period to reflect on the importance of service, sacrifice and selflessness. Let us renounce greed, selfishness, selfcenteredness and bigotry so that we can rescue our nation and make it more powerful

he Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, His Grace Alfred Adewale Martins, has urged Nigerians not to relent in their daily prayers to the Almighty for His intervention on the affairs of the country, assuring them that God would surely answer their prayers. In his Easter message, Archbishop Martins, noted that millions of Nigerians are currently going through excruciating hardship occasioned by current economic reality. However, he assured that the down-turn was only a temporal challenge that was surmountable with prayer and purposeful leadership by those at the helm of affairs. Taking a critical swipe at the state of the nation, Archbishop Martins challenged the leadership to be more pragmatic in its approach to solving the numerous challenges facing the country by paying more attention to specific areas that have direct impact on the masses such as revamping the power sector, adequate fuel supply and creation of more jobs. His words: “It is no longer news that Nigeria is going through very tough times as is evident in the high rate of inflation, low value of the Naira and rising rate of unemployment across the country. But I want to state here that we must not lose hope. I know the government is making effort to solve the numerous problems confronting us, we also have a responsibility to call them to order whenever we feel they are going on the wrong track. While we make the necessary sacrifices to get us out of the wood, we must also remain resolute in our prayers, believing that God Almighty would Archbishop never let us down.” Martins

Christians marked Good Friday

hristians in Nigeria joined their counterpart all over the world to mark the solemnity of Good Friday during the week to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. The Director of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Monsignor Gabriel Osu, explained that Good Friday is a day of deep penitence when Christians are expected to reflect on the life and death of Christ who paid the supreme price for the redemption of humanity. Msgr Osu enjoined Christians and indeed all Nigerians to continue to pray for the current administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in its effort to rid the nation of corruption and reposition the dwindling economy for good. He also spoke on the significance of the season. His words: “On Good Friday, we re-enact the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. It is a day when we are expected to fix our eyes on the Cross at Calvary. On this day also, no Mass is said in the strict sense of the word. Rather, we undertake a special service called the Mass of the Presanctified because Communion (in the species of bread) which had already been consecrated on Holy Thursday is given to the people.”

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

My TURNING P

Roving Worshipper

with Tai Anyanwu The gridlock, flock and abandonment

he much publicised camp meeting of Dominion City eventual kicked off yesterday at the bourgeoning Lekki axis of Lagos State. Naturally, Roving Worshipper was there to capture the meeting of the eagles in a church that has been described as the sanctuary where piety and class meet. For a church that is apparently trying to find its feet in the juicy mission ground of Lagos, the turn-out was amazing. How the charming Enugu-based General Overseer of the church, Dominic Ogbueli, achieve such a feat? Roving Worshipper, perceived the Ogbueli enjoys what one may describe as a cult following as it was evident that Dominion City members from the Enugu headquarters and all branches nationwide turned out in mass to grace the annual event. Ogbueli also played smart as he did not leave any stone unturned in capturing believers here in Lagos. Beyond broad attractive billboards, he made sure that enough Yoruba ministers made the list of his guest ministers. And so with double-pronged home advantage at work, the crowd was tumultuous from the very first. Roving Worshipper, however, observed that some of the attendees, mostly young people, arrived at the venue of camp meeting in the company of their friends. To them it was more of a picnic or a getaway thing. With their overnight bags either hanged over the shoulder or dragged on roller tiers, one could see signs of anticipated great fun on their adventurous faces. All the same the meeting featured great sermons and teaching. Of course, one would not expect less from such a huge event masterminded by the successful University of Nigeria, Nsukka trained minister. Roving Worshipper, however, learnt that one minster was originally scheduled to speak on the first day and after that the meeting would close at about 9 pm. But when the first minster finished on a very impressive note, then Ogbueli announced that a second minster would continue. Eventually, the first day came to a close about 11 pm. Many of his followers did not find it funny again, because along the line it began to rain heavily, a traffic gridlock developed shut-

ting movement on the usually choked up Lekki-Epe Expressway. What began as a glorious outing did actually have a colouration of disenchantment, unavoidable stress and what some described as lack of care for the flock. According to one of those that attended the event, Obinna Ugo: “In the first place, it is wrong to kick off ministration or programme proper on the first day, because usually at such events, the first day is devoted to registration and securing accommodation for visitors. Most of us came into the venue with our luggage, there was no definite transport arrangements to convey participants to and fro the church, and it was like everyone was on his or her own.” “It smacks of lack of care for the people who took pains to attend, because even when they do not yet know about the traffic gridlock and how to get away from it, the man of God was busy telling us that we must make sure we found our way back to the church at 7 am the following day. I mean, these are people who did not know how to escape the completely blocked traffic, they had not even really secured places to sleep,” another attendee simply identified as Victor complained. Eventually, it was a very, long trekking for these pilgrims. Those who had to go backward to Ajah trekked from Olokonla to as far as Abraham Adesanya Estate/ Ajiwe Junction before they could board commercial vehicles. And those heading towards Ibeju area went into the muddy road squeezing through stagnant vehicles up to Sangotedo area before relief came. Roving Worshipper took note of poor attempt at traffic control, which must have been the cause of the gridlock and untold hardship that people had to pass through on the first day. And it reminded us of Pastor Enoch Adeboye’s Lekki 1998 crusade. Traffic was shut down the same way and of course Lekki residents made sure that their cherished convenience was never tampered with in such a manner again. Ogbueli has to be aware that Lekki residents have their uniqueness and for him to continue to enjoy the patronage he is getting from his growing followers in the highbrow environment, this traffic/crowd control issue must be addressed with a touch of class.

INT

I was a founding member of Bakassi Boys – Rev. Anthony Tai Anyanwu

ack in his growing up year in Aba, Abia State, Chidi Anthony lived a very riotous life. He mingled with the dreaded youths in the volatile commercial nerve center of the state. “I caused my family much pain and my father and mother rained curses on me. I will never blame them for that. And if there is anything like reincarnation, I will like to have another Ochaonuma as my father in the next world. He lived right; not only for me, but the entire family. I made him regret having a son like me ,” Anthony explained. But unknown to his loving parents and relations, the young man who now leads Kings in Christ Church, a fast growing denomination with headquarters in Lagos, had joined a secrete cult at a tender age. His words: “I was into cult life. I was one of the founding members of Bakassi boys in Aba . The only thing that saved me is that I got born again before the eviction of Bakassi boys in Aba. I was vindicated because God delivered me.

My friends were killed. I made my father spend money in police stations making cases and trying to get me out trouble.” He was not just a member of the evil crowd that rained terror in the south eastern states of Nigeria in those days. “ I was the leader of a fraternity.I started as a member of Ajiagba Mafia. Later, I founded a mafia family, called Mafia Society Squad. My father was the treasurer of my village meeting. This gift of prophecy didn’t start today. It manifested at the early stages of my life. But the Devil used it negatively such that when l entered a place, something would show me where money or valuables were hidden. I easily found where my father or mother kept money,” Anthony added. His role in the world of Mafiosi eventually got Anthony into trouble with the law. “I was arrested for a big crime which I committed and was taken to Benue State where I was arraigned before a magistrate court. After the Court Clerk

I was into cult life. I was one of the founding members of Bakassi boys in Aba. The only thing that saved me is that I got born again before the eviction of Bakassi boys in Aba

read out my case, a female magistrate swore that she would make sure that justice was meted out. There was enough evidence to prove me guilty as charged. Due to the severity of my case, the court required that only someone who owned a building in the city of Benue would take me on bail. I didn’t have such relations. So, I cried profusely in the dock. No one came to bail me; hence I was kept in prison on awaiting trial,” Anthony explained. But the word of God in the book of 2Corinthians 12:9 – My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness, became actualized in Anthony’s situation. “ One morning, the warders called me out. I didn’t want to go, because I thought that they wanted to kill me. I later went to the prison pastor, knelt down and asked him to pray for me before I proceeded on the journey of no return. The warders gave me my clothes and I asked them where they were taking me. ‘Thank your God, somebody has bailed you’ one of the warders announced. I looked at the man who came to bail me; I had never seen the person before. I said to him, ‘You risked your property for me, what if I disappear?’ He said, ‘I know you cannot run. He told me that he was in court the day I was crying and that the Lord told him that he should not allowed me to perish in prison . I was actually awaiting trial when I received my call to ministry. After I regained my freedom, I went home to Aba, looking bushy. On my way to a barbing saloon, I met Rev. Dr. Madubuike, who asked me to see him. We met at the Royal Family Church. There, he told me that God said I was the Moses of this generation. Today, Rev. Chidi Anthony’s prophetic ministry is spreading beyond the shores of Nigeria. His annual crusade slated for 13-17 of April, called ‘Greater than The Pool of Bethsida’ will bring those in search of God’s intervention in their issues together at the Church headquarters at Ago Palace Road, Okota Lagos.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

Faith/interview

Nigerian Pastors are leading people to hell, says Kenyan Pastor Director, Liberation of God’s People Gospel Ministers Network International, Pastor Anthony Njoroge, has called on the Nigerian government to sanitize operations of churches in the country. According to him, only fair-minded regulation would save the people from fraudsters parading as men of God. He spoke with TAI ANYANWU Could you give a little background about you ministry? I am Pastor Anthony Njoroge from Nairobi, Kenya. I was born into a Roman Catholic Church family I ventured into ministry in 1978, at the age of 12. The Lord has been using me in many countries in Europe, Asia and in Africa. I am a pastor with Deliverance Church in Kenya; and I have my own ministry where I am now working, liberating God’s People from powers of darkness and then bringing them to the light of Christ as we raise passionate Christian believers all over the world. Tell me a bit about your association with Morris Cerullo? I have been a member of God’s Victorious Evangelist Team. That is a team of missionaries in Africa that work together with Morris Cerullo World Evangelism. There, I was approached by the former director of the same ministry Morris Cerulo founded, Rev. Karuma from Uganda, when he found that I am capable of handling the ministry’s finances in Africa. So he appointed me together with the board members as a Director of Finances where they gave me permission to control each and every coin that comes in and goes out for five years up to 2005. I am married. I have two sons; one of them is studying medicine in Oklahoma University, USA; the other one is doing business in Nairobi, and my

wife is an advocate in the High Court of Kenya. You look rather young to have kids who are that grown up; how did you do that? It is by the grace of God, because I got married at the age of 20. And I have learnt how to do the beautiful things and maintain myself. Would you like to say how old you are now? I am 45 now. So, specifically why did you come to Nigeria? I came to Nigeria because I was sent by God. I heard God speaking to me about this assignment; but I didn’t know

where I was coming until I connected with my coordinator in South Africa, who is the coordinator of my mission team in Pretoria. He told me that he hails from here. When I went there I stayed one week with his family. They are Muslims so; I stayed inside the house praying until God spoke to me that it is time to move out. I called the man of God who came to pick me from the airport, Pastor Ayotunde Oyegbola. He is also a friend to the coordinator in South Africa. He came to pick me and gave me a place to stay. Again, I felt that the place was not comfortable. I told him that I wanted to spend the whole of my stay in Nigeria in the church, praying. During my period of praying, I experienced different kinds of revelations from the Lord. In one way or the other, messages will come to me concerning Nigeria. You have been here for six weeks, have you been able to move round the churches in Nigeria? I have moved to several Churches here and I have discovered a lot of t h i n g s

which are taking place which are ungodly, something that I would prefer if the government can help to streamline all these churches; because some of them are leading people to hell. Others are just purely business people looking for customers; others are using evil powers such as dragon powers; some of them don’t have Christ-like Spirit. Can you relate to me one encounter you experienced while in one of these churches? One of the experiences that I encountered is that a pastor would invite you on a given condition, and what to say and how the services are being conducted there. You don’t have to mention or preach about Jesus Christ. You speak about the Bible and God. But if you speak about Jesus Christ, it is a crime to them. In this Nigeria? Where? Lagos? Yes; in Lagos. This is strange to me! Yes, but it happened. Go on: One day, I was invited by a pastor in one church here. He told me he was having a morning service and that I should go there and minister. I entered the church very earlier in the morning. During what they call warfare prayer, I could see something moving around like a dragon in the pulpit. And that one made me afraid. It made me remember one church in Kenya where I was invited to minister. Something was pushing at my legs trying to topple me over; and it was like the same spirit in that church. I had to leave just to spare my life spiritually and also the ministry that Jesus has given to me. Since that time, I have been invited to many churches. Some of them I could go but since I came to Lagos the churches that I have been comfortable to minister, which have a true spirit are only two out of the six churches I’ve visited. Could you name some of the churches that you visited? Deeper Life Christian Church, Fire Fire Church, G o d ’ s

Kingdom Church, Rema Church, Four Square Church, and I don’t remember the other two churches. But from the things I have encountered in these churches, I will say that my mission to Nigeria was to minister to only two churches. How do you compare churches in Nigeria with churches in Kenya? You cannot compare churches in Kenya with churches in Nigeria. First, churches in Kenya are currently being monitored by the government. So, such evil persons or evil pastors do not exist nowadays. For a pastor to open a church he must be educated; he must be of good conduct and he must have the approval of the community where he is citing the church. Secondly, the pastor must have the approval of his wife and family members and he has to be paying tax to the government. He must have a crime free record. Thirdly, pastors don’t ask for money, seed faith, apostolic gifts, donations and other monetary demands in Kenyan. What the government proposed is that once you pay your tithe, offering, thanksgiving and love offering, apart from these; any other offering that may be asked in the church is a crime. Except a church has a development programme, but you don’t ask for money anyhow. Now I have been in most churches here and I have already experienced in Nigeria; they even ask church members offerings four to five times. It is not biblical. You said that when you started praying God gave you certain revelations about the church in Nigeria could you explain further? It came to my attention while I was praying, asking God to show me who are his people in this city. And I asked Jesus, you said you were with Apostle Paul when he was afraid of being killed. So I said to him that I want you to come and open up my eyes to know who my brothers are. The Lord appeared to me and told me in this Lagos he has only 26 pastors; and for the prophets, the Lord told me they are only three in Lagos. Are you saying that it is biblical to have government regulate the church? According to Romans chapter 13, Jesus said that we should respect them that have authority. Government coming into the church is the hand of God, because I don’t see any mistake in government coming into the church. It is God Himself who is using that government; but it has to be in good faith. Don’t harass anyone because, the law is not meant to harass but it is meant to bring order. If the government does not come in with good order, the problem in Nigeria will continue.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Reflection on the lessons of Easter and ministers’ counsel to Nigerians General Overseer, Lord Chosen Charismatic Revival Church, Pastor Lazarus Muoka

Muoka

Beloved, today is a special day in the sense that Christians all over the world are demonstrating their appreciation for what our Lord Jesus Christ did for humanity. He came and died a sacrificial death for our sin, was buried and on the third day resurrected in order to rescue us from the impending doom reserved for us as a result of the sin of Adam and Eve. He laid down His life for the love He has for mankind and was not coerced into it for He has power to give it up on His own free will and the power to take it back. Jn 10: 17-18 says, “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.” It is this power to do and undo, the power of resurrection, of salvation, deliverance, that power that reconciled us with the Creator that we are appreciating today. By the power of His resurrection all those things the devil has stolen from us are restored. Thus, the challenges of humanity including physical challenges, spiritual, political and economic challenges that are distorting the progress of man are addressed by this resurrection power. If the nation can come to Him today, I am sure our problem shall be no more, because it is only in having a union with Christ that we will have peace. Regional Secretary,IFESEPSA Gideon Para-Mallam Easter reminds every Christian of the significance of the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. So let us spend Easter reflecting on the life of

Christ and the wonderful example of sacrifice which Jesus left for us to follow. We need to not tire of sacrificing for the Church and Nigeria. This nation needs incorruptible leaders not just in words but also in deeds. We should not abdicate the responsibility of being salt and light as Jesus charged all believers to be so in society. Buhari alone cannot change and transform Nigeria but we all must join hands together with him to achieve this under God and the Lordship of Jesus Christ over Nigeria. Leaving him alone to fail so we can quickly point fingers and say well, he is a Muslim and so forth is an un-Christian attitude. I personally urge Christians to join hands and support the President to see a newly resurrected Nigeria emerge from the ruins of corruption and social decay.

Odubiyi

God’s people. This is what Easter is all about. You may be going through some troubles and challenges at this time. I have good news for you. It’s not the end of your story yet, for after Friday comes Sunday. And the same Spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead is still at work and can take your bad and make it better. Take some time to reflect on what Jesus has accomplished for you. Pray and commit your situation into God’s hands. Jesus came for this purpose and with God all things are possible.

owe. Man owes a debt he can't pay. Reconciliations to God is only possible by accepting the penalty of sin which Jesus went to the cross to pay on our behalf. Those who keep betraying Jesus for money will one day like Judas Iscariot abandon the money they've ill gotten, and go to answer to God how they lived their lives here on earth. Nigerians should live their lives being cautious of the fact that God will require from us account of what we did with everything that He ever entrusted into our hands Both as individuals and those in authority over our joint treasures in the nation. We may influence the auditor's assigned to our institutions but Gods standard cannot be compromised. This season calls for a sobber reflectionswho I am truly before God. Will I live with God in heaven or with Satan in hell fire after these acquiring and endless lootings? Truly it is time to repent.

President, Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Rev Dr. Jeremiah Gado

RCCG Province 14 sets up committees for career development Stanley Ihedigbo

s part of efforts to empower members under its region, the Redeemers Men Fellowship (RMF) of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Lagos Province 14 has set up five committees to handle various segments that can impact on the lives of many. The committees include: manpower training and development, job creation and opportunities, welfare and family matters. Others are fellowship and business and finally finance and project management committee. Speaking at the inauguration of the Area's Executives General meeting at the Lagos Province 14 Zonal Headquarters, Ejigbo, President of the Province, Pastor Niyi Ola, stressed the need for members of the Province and RCCG in particular to assist one another whenever the need arises. He reiterated that the essence of the committees is adding value on the lives of members stressing the need for men in the church to show exemplary leadership as the head of the house. “The goal of Christian

God’s Children Great Talent Season 6 enters q’finals

P Para-Mallam

Vice President Still Waters Church, Pastor Taiwo Odubiyi: God sent His Son, Jesus to our world for a reason: to redeem mankind, to save us from sin, sickness, and sorrow. The Bible clearly reveals this in 1John 3:8, “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, to destroy the works of the devil.” And so, when Jesus was on the cross, we were on His mind. Praise God! On that Friday, Jesus who was holy and sinless became sin for us. He was hung on a tree between two thieves, like a criminal. Nails were put in His hands and a crown of thorn was placed on His head. He eventually died. But that was not the end of the story. On the third day, Sunday, He resurrected, and ascended to Heaven, to live for evermore. His resurrection from death is the seal of freedom and victory for

Ezechukwu

Rev. Gado

The lessons of Easter are obvious. Easter is about the supreme sacrifice that no other person paid except Jesus Christ. He died and resurrected and now about to return to receive those who believe in him into his everlasting kingdom. Easter is about service, sacrifice and rescue. I urge Nigerians to use this period to reflect on the importance of service, sacrifice and selflessness. Let us renounce greed, selfishness, self-centredness and bigotry so that we can rescue our nation and make it more powerful. Presiding Priest, The Salvation Army Kano Central Church, Major Stephen Ezechukwu Jesus went to the cross to pay the debt He did not

fellowship is the development of matured minds who are individuals with well integrated personality and it’s our purpose to call all men to repentance and submission to Christ thus preparing them to serve in whatever capacity,” he said. According to him: “If men are not discharging their responsibilities effective the church cannot grow thus the RCCG men need to come together for the sole aim of sharing ideas that will empower the men.” He said that the sole aim of setting up the various committees revolves round how to empower one another The Pioneer president said: “My dream for Redeemers Men’s Fellowship will be known for setting standard in Christian fellowship that others will be able to see and not only how it should be but how it should done. “If we can combine the business of sole winning with our technical ability there will be great gain.” He also added that plans are afoot for the RMF LP 14 to organise a luncheon on July 25, adding that plans are also underway to acquire a coastal bus for the Province.

Senior Pastor, God's Kingdom Church, Dr. John Komeh Nigerians should pray for God's intervention in our affairs because there is such grandiose deception in the land by its leaders and elites who seems to be confused. GOD is able to Resurrect our buried Destiny

Komeh

ort-Harcourt, Abuja and Lagos recently played hosts to the sixth edition of Africa’s leading gospel talent hunt programme – God’s Children Great Talent (GCGT). GCGT is a social development project of the RCCG, Apapa Family, which has distinguished itself this year by extending to other cities in Nigeria. The gospel talent hunt is focused on discovering, grooming and producing young talents and stars in various fields of artistic expressions across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States of America. This year, Season 6 opened its doors beyond the Apapa Family to children and young people aged 5 to 20 years with auditions recently held in Lagos, Abuja and Port-Harcourt. Over 2,000 contestants registered online for free at www.gcgt. org for a chance to participate in the competition. In each of these cities, leading gospel performing and non-performing artistes judged performances in order to pass them to the next level. Dayo BenjaminLaniyun, Wale Rubber, Eni-

tan Adaba, Zuriel Oduwole, and many others guided the competition to its next stage. Freke, the dynamic gospel artiste, and Ayo Thompson, Cool TV presenter, both anchored the auditions The next stage, which was the quarter finals, held yesterday at RCCG Christ Church, Gbagada. Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, Head of Apapa Family, explained that the vision of the initiative is to engage children/teens in a positive way, using their talents to glorify God in his words: “God’s Children’s Great Talent was born out of a desire to identify and nurture the diverse talents available in children. We are delighted a multinational brand such as Cadbury Bournvita and other brands such as Digital Jewels, The Riverbank School, and many other media partners have supported the project over the years.” This year’s competition will be produced and televised in Nigeria and the UK with viewers being able to follow the journey of the contestants from audition to the grand finale, which will be happening at the Eko Hotel and Suites on May 30.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

FAITH

Destroy the enemy’s standard bearers

ll you need to do when using battle flag or banner is to set it up or wave it and declare the end result according to what you want to achieve. Declare ye among the nations, and publish, and set up a standard, publish and conceal not: say, Babylon is taken, Bel is confounded, Merodach is broken in pieces, her idols are confounded, her images are broken in pieces (Jeremiah 50:2). Set up standard, and say something that must certainly come to pass. Enemies have their own flag also: Destroy and pull down flags of the enemy Jeremiah lamented that he was always seeing the flag of the enemy and cried to God: How long shall I see the standard, and hear the sound of the trumpet? (Jeremiah 4:21) The Living Bible renders it this way; How long must this go on? How long must I see war and death surrounding me? (Jeremiah 4:21) Seeing enemy’s flags around means being defeated and therefore war and death surrounds you. You must therefore pull them down. Every day pulls down and destroys the enemy’s flags and banners around you, and

Word of Life

Bishop. Moses Kattey moseskatteyabp@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

blessings In a Civil War of a Country, the enemy Soldiers were dislodged and many of them ran into the bush and forest. Later, the same location was recaptured by the people that were initially dislodged but those who were in the bush and forest were there for 3-4 years and even after the war ended. Why? If they had seen the flag raised up they could have known whether their own soldiers were occupying the land or not. He who owns the flag that is raised up is the owner and in control of that territory. Raise up a flag in your church and in your business place. It matters a lot. Do not let your opponents or rivals only to fly their own. Don’t let your banner and flag be pulled down physically. Pin / raise your flag or banner up in the name of the Lord and you will see souls, wealth, different needs etc clustering together (Numbers 2:17) especially if you declare so

death and destruction will flee away. Do this whether you see them or not, whether you feel them or not. This is exactly what happens too when the enemy sees your flag – it means war and death surrounding him. They cannot pull down or destroy your flag because you set it up in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Destroy enemy’s standard bearers The enemies raise their own flag also, so don’t let this happen. Thine enemies roar in thy congregations, they set up their ensigns (Psalm 74:4) When the enemies are allowed to raise their own standard, it does not augur well. Destroy their ensigns always. Destroy their stander bearers. Aim at those who have the enemy’s banners and flags. You may not know them, but your prayer knows them. I do not know my enemies, but my prayer knows them. Raised banners attract

when setting it up. - - - every man in his place by their standards (KJV) - - - when travelling, each tribe stayed together under its own flag (Isaiah 11:10, 12 LB) Pin or raise a flag of babies in the church and declare it so and babies will rally towards it to be born by women. Raise a flag of wealth and declare it so and wealth will rally round it in the church. Each type of needs rally round the flag that is set up in association to that need. If you set them up in your house, associate each little flag with each need and the Lord will ensure the needs/blessing rally round them in your house. In the church set up one banner for souls to gather or rally round in the church, and you must see new souls. The Lord works mysteriously when the standard is lifted up. •The Holy Spirit arranges for miracles •The Holy Spirit arranges for restoration •The Holy Ghost arranges for victory •The Holy Ghost arranges for fruit of the womb •The Holy Ghost arranges for prosperity to come •The Holy Ghost arranges for holiness and discipline among the people

Don't refer to past quarrels

erry (not real name) is fond of making references to previous issues whenever there was a disagreement between him and his wife. In fact, he would go to the extent of narrating in details all that his wife had done to him, even though she sincerely apologized to him. He was so good at it that no detail eluded him. It looked as though he taped every occurrence or every word as spoken by either of them. He would even quote date to the amazement of his wife and state the exact time it happened as well as narrate what transpired in the process. This man was so good at referring to what had happened before in other quarrels that the wife was dazed each time he started his usual narration at the slightest provocation. The funny thing was that the wife would forget most of the things that had happened but her husband would remind her of every little detail and fling back all her errors and flaws at her and a statement like this used to back it up; “That is what you did the other time…..” “You are always saying so, the way you said it the last time when….” “The last time you did ex-

Marriage & Family Intimacy

Bishop Charles Ighele holyspiritmissioninc@yahoo.com

07066579379/09098845521

You are always saying so, the way you said it the last time when…. actly this and now you are doing even worse” …… This situation kept on repeating itself until the wife got fed up and one day told her husband bluntly that she will no longer apologize again for her faults since he was not ready to forgive her completely. She wondered why she would keep apologizing each time he pointed out some things and him not able to completely forgive her. She reasoned that if he had genuinely forgiven her, he would not in any way bring back the things she apologized for each time they had a new quarrel. Consequently, this brought a great threat to their marriage and almost tore it apart. The wife refused to continue apologizing to her husband because he held unto the past, con-

tinued to bring up issues of the past into new quarrels and refused to let go. Over time as Jerry realized that his wife had changed in the area of apologizing, he learnt to stop referring to past quarrels whenever there was a disagreement between them as he found out he was so much at fault in this area. We need to realize that matters that we have already resolved and apologies made should not be referred to again whenever there is a new quarrel. It should be put in the past where it belongs for the sake of the relationship. Referring to past quarrels while there is a new one will only lead to more quarrels and will bring about anger and bitterness. Although not making references to past quarrels can be a hard decision to take in relationship, it can be done through a deliberate personal discipline. It is not as if your mind will not wander in that direction.

When it does, discipline yourself. Hold it back and tackle the new matter on ground. You just have to refuse to delve into the past again, Philippians. 3:13. Holding unto old issues and bringing them up again when there is a new quarrel will keep drawing you backwards in your relationship. It will cause you not to make progress in your marriage and in your relationships. It will also make your spouse or the person you are relating with to always feel bad each time you mention it. If proper care is not taken, it might kill the love that exists between the people who are involved in the relationship. Accept the apology from those who offended you and avoid opening up of old wounds at the slightest provocation rather allow it to heal completely. Referring to old issues simply means you are not willing or ready to let go or that you have not forgiven the person. Forgiveness should be total and not partial. Learning not to refer to past quarrels is a sign that you are maturing emotionally. Matured people also let go easily. Leave that level of referring to old issues and step up. Mature!

Mystery of Anxiety Bishop John Ogbansiegbe 0803 341 6327 (SMS Only)

You shall embrace your own resurrection

ay be as you are reading this article, you and your family members are already being threatened. May be they are frightening you, such that you have not travelled to your village for over three years now. May be they are manipulating you in one way or the other, such that you are feeling their negative influences around you; you can make it. God said to Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed, the Lord thy God is with thee, withersoever thou goest,” –Joshua 1:9. As a credence to the above scripture the word of God declared, “fear thou not, for I am with thee, be not dismayed for I am thy God, I will strengthen thee, yea, I will help thee, yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness,” Isaiah 41:10. God did not consider the fear which Gideon manifested in respect of their powerful enemies, the Midianites neither di9d God consider his negative confessions; that he was the least from a family, which is the least amongst the tribes of Israel. God did not consider his inadequacies, in capabilities, disabilities and obvious limitations but yet God called him for a mighty assignment. And assignment meant for only mighty men of valour. God himself clothed him with garment, spirit, courage, and zeal of a mighty man of valour. God called him and said, “Thou mighty man of valour.” – Judges 6:12. This was how God saw him. But that was a height, which he was yet to attain. That was a title which was yet to follow him in future. But God in His omniscience and omnipotence as the Almighty, Alpha and Omega knows and calls each and every one of us by the true name of our divine destiny which only He knows about us, even before we were formed in our mother’s womb. Most of the time, when the devil begins to attack a man or woman with a special divine destiny, the devil is only attacking

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed, the Lord thy God is with thee, withersoever thou goest that future destiny, based on the slight knowledge of what he knows about your future. He launches advance warfare to stop your destiny as well as God’s purpose and programme for your life. He did it to Joseph when his brothers attempted to eliminate him and when Portifer ’s wife blackmailed him. He did it to Moses, when Pharaoh committed a mighty infanticide against the Jewish baby boys. He did it David through King Saul when he made several attempts to kill David. He continued to fight our Lord Jesus Christ with different Herods from birth to Golgotha, on the Cross of Calvary, from one of the thieves on the cross, to the grave until the resurrection morning. It shall not be long from now, you shall embrace your own resurrection morning and every power of darkness after your destiny shall be totally destroyed and shattered to irreplaceable pieces. All you need to make it is faith, courage and determination. To this end, the Lord Jesus Christ declared, “Because of your unbelief; for verily I say unto you, if ye have faith as little as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place, and it shall remove. And nothing shall be impossible unto you,” Matthew 17:20. Indeed by faith in the power and potency of our Lord Jesus Christ, you shall make it and nothing shall be impossible unto you, in the name of Jesus Christ.

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Insight

Rev. Femi Akinola www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

Your business and your speed

any refer to the 21st century as the Jet Age, this purports that this generation of ours is more impatient than previous ones. We are in an age where someone would dump one computer for another in the name of ‘it’s not fast enough’. In such a dispensation as this, the ability to act/respond fast can be a great asset in business. It is normal that the individual who can deliver within a shorter time frame will attract more customers and therefore make more money because people love to have their requests met with speed. Gone are the days where people truly wait. Now, waiting has become tantamount to wasting. “And Isaac said unto his son, How is it that thou found it so quickly, my son? And he said, Because the Lord thy God brought it to me.” Gen 27:20 This is more or less a microwave generation in which only those who can deliver within satisfactory time frame will thrive and pass the test of time. Even employers detest employees who are sluggish in their approach to issues. There are many who are jobless because of sluggishness. Creation is waiting for you to deliver; don’t let them wait forever. Start delivering quickly. Isaac got confused about the real identity of his son Jacob when he delivered with speed the venison he required from Esau. The venison was so much on point and on time that his heart melted for it. Rather than delay or buy time to discover the truth, he went ahead and released the blessing meant for the first son to the second. There is serious power in speed. Your competitors in business are gaining mileage and breaking more grounds not because they are better but because they are faster. In business, the two complement each other. You may be better, but until you’re faster, you may remain stagnant.

A man without results commands no respect and result requires speed. A business can die if the executives lack speed

How fast are you in delivering your destiny assignment to humanity? Jacob was able to take what belonged to his elder brother because he had speed. Our God is a God of speed; you must be like Him in everything you do. Some people, rather than work smart in business, they only work very hard. The returns and gains belong to the people who do both. You must be hard working and smart working at the same time; else, opportunities will just be passing by. The earnest expectation of creation awaits the manifestation of the sons of God; but how can a person manifest in this generation of ours if he lacks speed? To become the key player in your area of endeavour, you need speed. “And after the sop satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.” John 13:27 A man without results commands no respect and result requires speed. A business can die if the executives lack speed. Even as an employee, when you are sluggish, your job becomes threatened. If Jacob could claim what rightfully belonged to Esau, it then follows that anyone can be replaced in life. “I must work the works of him that sent me while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” John 9:4 The problem with many business owners is that they go about their businesses ‘at their own pace’. Even Jesus Christ carried out His assignment on earth with a sense of urgency. If God Himself has a sense of urgency in the things He does, then, we can’t achieve much on our assignment to humanity if we approach it with levity. Great businesses have slogans! You must have a very catchy slogan for your business. This has a way of attracting great investors and partners to your business with speed too. This is brought to bear by the mentality and attitude with which you approach your business. Business requires speed! Success befriends speed! Humanity loves speed! Therefore, sluggishness is capable of ruining a promising destiny. Sluggishness can make destitute a potentially great destiny. It is too costly. I release upon you the grace for divine speed in all your endeavours in Jesus name.

Understanding the extra mile principle

here are two types of people in this world; those who accept whatever life offers them and those who demand from life whatever they want and insist on getting just that. The first sets of people are mediocre. They are always victims of circumstances. You recognize them from the way they talk and they put the blame for where they are in life on everything and everyone but themselves. When they pass their exams they lay claim to the success, when they fail they say the lecturer failed them. They blame their background for their poverty and the government for everything else. They forget that given the same conditions, there are others who strive for the top and succeed. The second set of people do not succumb to circumstances but rather work to change it by exercising their faith and applying all at their disposal to becoming the agents of change in their lives. Two examples of this contrast would be Adam who had everything but lost it because he passed the responsibility of his failure on to his wife and God (Genesis 3; 1-17), King David who rose from nothing to become King because he refused to succumb to the normal fears of men and took charge of his destiny by fight-

THE EXTRA MILE PRINCIPLE

Bishop (Dr.) Mark Omonze facebook@bishopmarkomonze email@mark_omonze@yahoo.com

08033084546

They forget that given the same conditions, there are others who strive for the top and succeed ing for greatness (I Samuel 17: 26-58). It is never a good thing to ‘leave things as they are’. You must realize that it can always get better. Philippians 3: 13-14 13. Brethren I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do, forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. 14. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. ( NIV) Emphasis mine). It is good to be content in life. Contentment is a frame of mind that keeps you calm in your pursuit of success but it is not a ticket to easy town. Contentment is making the best of every situation. To be a great achiever you must go beyond the realm of contentment; that is why you will see that great men (by

this I mean male and female) never seem satisfied with what they have got or what they have done. You must be motivated to strive for more, to make an unusual mark in your generation. To excel in life you must first exceed all expectations, this is the extra mile principle, and this is giving a 110%. You must exceed everyone’s expectations; you must exceed even your own expectations. You must keep pushing and pressing for greater things and greater heights. You must push yourself beyond known limits. To do this you observe the following laws; The law of diligence (Proverbs 10:4) He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand, but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. KJV (Proverbs 12:24) The hand of the diligent shall bear rule; but the slothful shall be under tribute. KJV. (Proverbs 22:29) Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mere men. KJV (Empha-

sis mine) Diligence simply means persistent effort at a given task. It means putting forth all you have and pressing to the accomplishment of a given task. Some would call it ‘hard work’ but I prefer the term ‘good work’. It is not a good idea for you to persist in a work that is not fruitful. Some people ‘work hard’ all their life and never go beyond a certain level of achievement. The diligent not only works, he researches his work because the term ‘diligence’ also means carefulness and attentiveness to observe the rule of contract or expectation of law. Some people work without paying attention to the details of what is going on in their environment, whether it is clean or not, whether the people they have to work with are happy or frustrated. This vital key of paying attention to detail was the major step in the success story of Joseph. He paid close attention to the people around him and found a way to meet those needs. I also believe that his attention to details helped him in the effective running of Potiphar’s household. The diligent man or woman as a rule must always be attentive to details. Diligence is the way to riches and reigning. This is the way to make it to the top.

We must think before we leap -Idahosa The General Overseer, God First Ministries, Bishop Isaac Idahosa wept over the allegation that CAN President and to other clerics collected 7 billion naira bribe in this interview As a strong member of CAN, What is your view on the 7million naira alleged bribe against CAN? Although the one who made the allegation has apologized, the questions are, why now? It is not enough for him to apologize. What really happened? What did he stand to benefit? What instigated to his hook up story? Who gave him the push? Is not enough for him to come and say am sorry but this thing must be definitely checkmated to avoid a repeat, so forgiveness can be granted but apology is not enough. It is not a very small allegation so we must all in the spirit of not wanting such thing to happen, story without basis and so many other people embraced it as though it was profiting to the body of Christ or to the nation at large. For a part of the body to rise up one morning and begin to speak what he knows about or just to run down the body, it should be revisited by appropriate bodies. What effect do you think this would have had in the lives of people who had so

because they have proven tried and tested over time and to those who believe in them, they will now see dividend of the believers in the leadership of Christendom. We must learn all the time to kind out matters before we issued a conclusion.

much trust in men of God? Those who are in a hurry brought the idea and began to wine their mouth and accepted the fact that 7 billion naira was collected by the body of Christ and the fathers of faith in Nigeria and the like of my own spiritual father (Papa Ayo Oritsajafor). We must learn not to jump at issues, let’s find out matters and be able to pray for one another in love. Love is not easily provoked. That is why you see the way they responded, that is how fathers should respond to issue maturely. Why? Nothing of such happened. It’s high time we trust what our spiritual leaders says

What is the way forward for this nation? We must learn to dialogue. Especially, one of the ways to move forward is if the constitutional conference that was held last year can be taken into consideration, it will go a long way to solving the present issues and future issues. We must see Nigeria as our country to love it and love leadership. There are no perfect leaders anywhere. There is something about leadership. Until you are there, you don’t understand fully what you are about to face. To lead 180 to 200 million people is not a joke. Once you are a president, you are no longer a party’s president but a Nigerian president. That means you must set out formulas to ensuring that everybody benefits from the administration whereby Christians and Muslims or

whatever we practice, we have Nigeria to practice. Could you tell us about your fourth coming programme? It is called “Night of a Thousand Times More”, Friday 1st April 2016, 11pm at the church auditorium at God First Ministries Inc. (Illumination Assembly) and we have the likes of Yinka Ayefele, Sanmie Ekposo, I Go Die, Akpororo, Praise Machine. The reason for this programme is to pray for unity to Nigerians, asking God for restoration a thousand times more. The reason why we are bringing guests artist is to worship God together. Why do you think some gospel artists veer into worldly lyrics? One, in the quest for fame and money- They think that when they step out of the church they will make money faster. I would advice strongly that the church should embrace their own and create a platform to help them become what they want to become right in Church else they can be enticed to join the world system.

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Mikel: We must give more than 100% in Egypt

Flamingos grab World Cup ticket

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NIG vs EGY: Nigeria face CAF fine over crowded stadium p.55

SPORTS

Michael Babatunde: Moroccans worship me Dapo Sotuminu

he playing career of Super Eagles 2014 World Cup star, Michael Babatunde, was going down the drain as an unused substitute at Dynamo Petroski and Volyn Lutsk football clubs both in Ukraine in quick successions, where he had played for five seasons until the worried youngster put a call through to his agent, Makanjuola Nureni, to help save him from a dwindling fortune in Europe. In the Ukrainian club, Babatunde was owed several months of unpaid salaries and match bonuses. Life was becoming unbearable adn he found it difficult to class himself as a Europe-based Nigerian soccerstar among his peers in the national team. When the top stars in the national team talk about their financial commitments in Europe, Michael Babatunde withdraws into his shell as he had nothing to talk about to showcase the wealth he got from playing big time football in Europe. While, the Eagles star was bidding his time in the Ukrainian league, his agent set out to work seeking a better deal for him in Europe. Nureni, got tired searching for a better deal for Babatunde, when all the five clubs he negotiated with on behalf of the player were reluctant to give their words to give the aggressive striker a regular playing time and they also refused to make commitment on paying his salary regularly. While the agent was combing the nook and crannies of Europe, he got a call from Morocco from a fellow agent that, there was a big demand for the services of his player, Michael Babatunde, by one of the country’s club giants, Raja Casablanca. The idolized Moroccan club had sent out specific request for the Nigerian World Cup 2014 star, who they were convinced was the best Super Eagles player at the Mundial in Brazil. The Moroccans told Makanjuola Nureni, that, during the Brazil 2014 World Cup, the supporters of Raja Casablanca put their weight behind the Super Eagles as the African team they supported in the competition because of the presence of Michael Babatunde. It was at this point that the club started picturing the Eagles’ star as a possible signing for Raja Casablanca. The dream of the Moroccan club giant finally came true late last year, when Babatunde agreed to contractual terms presented by the club to have him play for them. “The deal of playing first team club football and getting a salary three times bigger than what I got in Ukraine’s Dynamo Petroski and Volyn Lutsk put together was a massive one for me and I accepted the deal with so much delight. I felt great that for the first time in my soccer career, I would be earning such big pay. “I was also marveled by the big crowd that welcomed me to the club the very first time the management presented me with my club jersey. Five thousand Raja Casablanca supporters stormed the stadium to welcome me to the club. I was shocked to see such a big crowd, with this I made up my mind to give the club and the supporters the best to help them achieve set goals.” Babatunde, who had just a little over 1,000 friends on his fan base on facebook before he joined the Moroccan club, saw this increased to 60,000 within two months of signing a deal with Raja. The player was shocked to his bone marrows when in his second game for the club, the supporters composed a special song for him and each time he scored a goal, the supporters song the song very loud. The song goes CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport

Michael Babatunde: Moroccans worship me C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 5 3

thus: ‘Hey oo Babatunde, Hey oo Babatunde, Hey oo Babatunde.’ The rendition of this song takes over the entire arena both at home games and away matches, much that Michael Babatunde is always eager to hear the supporters sing the song, so, he puts in his best to score valuable goals for Raja Casablanca. “It feels good to be worshiped by Moroccan soccer fans especially as a Nigerian player. I will always give glory to God for taking me from obscurity in the Ukrainian league to being worshiped in Morocco. “As it is, even if I get a bigger deal to play in one of the top clubs in Europe, I would be very reluctant to leave as Raja supporters love me so much and they are very confident that I would help them win important games. The club president and the managers respect me a lot and I am happy about that. I am comfortable in this club and I know that Raja Casablanca would take me to greater heights in world football. The club’s fan base worldwide is about one billion. That alone is monumental. Another good thing about this club is that, the 45,000 capacity stadium is always full to the brim in our home games and the Raja supporters dominate the stadium in away games with the club’s traditional colours. “The good thing about the Moroccan league is that, millionaires all over Europe converge in Morocco at the weekend to relax, so they watch games live here. I am doing great here as over 25 offers have come my way from clubs in Europe. And just after four games, scoring two goals and making six assists. The people are crazy about me.” The popularity of the Nigerian star among Moroccan soccer fans who worship him went overboard last weekend, when a wild celebration of his season’s third goal against Chabab Rif Al Hoceima Football Club, a bullet header, led to the death of three Moroccan fans and 39 injured, who scampered for Michael Babatunde’s jersey, which he threw to a sect of fans at the stadium after he scored the goal. The Nigerian star has dedicated his goal to the two Raja Casablanca fans that died and the victims injured in a fight which broke out between two groups in Morocco. “I dedicate my goal to the lives that were lost in the Ultras groups fracas. I felt bad to hear that two people died and lots of people were injured.”

Raja will play without an spectators for its next five games, and they must pay a fine of 100,000 Moroccan dirhams (9,200 Euros). Michael Babatunde said he is looking forward to getting a fresh call to the Super Eagles team. He recalled his unforgettable Brazil 2014 World Cup experience, which he said was made possible by the Eagles’ chief coach Stephen Keshi, who among all odds, gave him the opportunity to play in the biggest soccer tournament in the world. “I felt more accomplished as a player, when I played against world stars like Lionel Messi, the best player in the world and also against Dzeko. It was an unforgettable experience. Playing at the Brazil 2014 has made me a wellknown figure in Nigeria and across the world. Today, when I go out to public places, people call my name on

Johan Cruyff: 1947-2016 “H e was certainly the best footballer Europe has produced.” The words of Germany great Franz Beckenbauer serve as a fitting tribute to the influence and impact of Johan Cruyff, who passed away on Thursday. Cruyff died aged 68 in Barcelona and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest footballers of all time, someone who revolutionised the game with his ‘total football’ philosophy. The forward enjoyed his biggest successes at club level with Ajax, the club where he made his first-team debut at the tender age of 17. Despite Ajax’s 3-1 defeat at the hands of GVAV, Cruyff immediately made a name for himself as he scored his side’s only goal. That game was the start of something special. Cruyff would go on to lead Ajax to six Eredivisie titles in the 1960s and early 1970s, while also winning four KNVB Bekers during his first spell with the Amsterdam giants, scoring an incredible 247 goals in 318 appearances. It was in Europe that he really made an impact on the game, though. After losing the European Cup final in 1968-69, Ajax would become the team to beat in the years to come with their free-flowing attacking football. The Amsterdam side saw off Panathinaikos in the final in 1970-71, beat Inter the following year and defeated Juventus in 1973 – and Cruyff was at the very heart of their success. Not only did he score both of Ajax’s goals in the 2-0 win over Inter, but he was very much the man who was calling the shots, both on and off the pitch. The gifted attacker left Ajax for Barcelona in controversial fashion in 1973 after he was stripped of the captaincy, with his former coach Rinus Michels immediately jumping on the opportunity to lure the iconic number 14 to Camp Nou. Cruyff did not waste any time in making an impact at the Catalan club, helping them to their first La Liga title in 14 years in his maiden season at the club and becoming an instant legend.

It was then at the 1974 World Cup that Cruyff confirmed his status as one of the best players the game had ever seen. The Dutch had not appeared at a World Cup since 1938 and had failed to make much of an impact in the years preceding the tournament in West Germany, but Cruyff took his team by the hand. He inspired Oranje to wins over Uruguay, Bulgaria, Argentina, East Germany and Brazil on their way to the final, before they were finally halted by West Germany, introducing the famous ‘Cruyffturn’ in the process. Irrespective of Netherlands’ defeat in the final, their ‘total football’ was the new benchmark in football and Cruyff was its main representative. The 1974 World Cup would prove to be the highlight of Cruyff’s career with the national team as he missed out on the 1978 World Cup, where the Dutch again stumbled

the streets,” Babatunde said. He noted that, the only snag about his 2014 World Cup appearance was the injury he sustained when a powerful shot from an Eagles’ teammate, Ogenyi Onazi, broke his left hand during a Group F game against Argentina. “This injury slowed me down, as all the offers I had immediately after the World Cup fizzled away unattended to because no top club would sign an injured player. That is history today, I thank God. With my present club now and the hard work I am doing, I will surely get back to the Eagles.” Michael Babatunde, started playing football on the streets of Lagos in the Surulere district of the state barefooted with his friends, before a football agent Makanjuola Nuremi took him to Water Football Academy in Abuja, where his skills were sharpened. It was from the Abuja football academy that Babatunde got a deal to play in the Nigerian Premier League side, Heartland Football Club of Owerri. He played just one season here before moving to Turkey and later Ukraine, before the latest deal in Morocco. He implored youngsters playing soccer on the streets across Nigeria to be steadfast, focused and should continue praying to God to grant them favour that would propel them to stardom in top clubs, just as God did in his own case. “They should keep on working as their helper is on the way. The agent that discovered me is like my father and he has been doing everything to ensure I succeed, he is everything to me. He is simply the best.” Babatunde, is married to his heartthrob of many years and they have a six-month-old baby. “We are on break in my club and I decided to come and see my baby, since she is in Nigeria with her mother. I love my baby girl so much,” he told Sunday Telegraph in an exclusive interview. When the soccer star is not playing football, he reads his bible, speaks with his family on phone from his base in Morocco and do some other things to keep himself busy, by playing computer games on his phone. Sometimes he listens to gospel music. He loves to listen to good music and dance, but he doesn’t like to do that in nite clubs. For Babatunde’s best food, if he is in Nigeria, his loves to eat vegetable and pounded yam prepared by his wife, but while in Europe and Morocco, he enjoys eating rice with salad.

at the final hurdle in Argentina. Cruyff made the most of his meagre 48 caps for Oranje, scoring 33 goals in a superb international career. After leaving Barcelona in 1978, he enjoyed spells with LA Aztecs, Washington Diplomats and Levante before re-joining Ajax and then moving on to Feyenoord, with Cruyff hanging up his boots in 1984. But Cruyff’s legacy did not end there. Already someone who was very much in charge on the pitch during his active career, he was destined to become a coach. He started out on the bench at Ajax, only to join his beloved Barcelona in 1988, where he would be in charge for eight seasons. It was under Cruyff that they won their first European Cup, with Ronald Koeman firing ‘the dream team’ to victory over Sampdoria, while he also led the Catalans to four Liga titles. And even after Cruyff’s departure in 1996, his spirit very much lived on at Camp Nou. It was the Dutchman who was the driving force behind their much-heralded academy, with La Masia producing players such as Carles Puyol, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi over the years. Pep Guardiola’s side that conquered Europe between 2008 and 2012 with their famous tiki-taka style was very much inspired by Cruyff’s philosophy, as was the Spain team that won back-to-back European Championships and the World Cup. “Cruyff painted the chapel and Barcelona coaches since merely restore or improve it,” Guardiola once said about his former mentor. His first love Ajax also turned to Cruyff back in 2011 in their attempts to become a force to be reckoned with, the club legend advising a major overhaul of their renowned youth academy as a number of former players returned to Amsterdam as part of his ‘velvet revolution’. With Cruyff’s tragic death, the footballing world has lost one of its eternal greats. But his philosophy and ideas will live on forever.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MARCH 27, 2016

SPORT An estimated 40,000 fans turned up to watch Nigeria’s draw with Egypt in a 25,000-capacity stadium

Ighalo vows Eagles will fight to win in Egypt Dapo Sotuminu

Mikel: We must give more than 100% in Egypt

... Eagles’ delegation off to Alexandria Monday Adekunle Salami KADUNA

igeria captain, John Mikel Obi, has called on his Super Eagles teammates to be focused and resolute when tackling the Pharaohs of Egypt in Alexandria on Tuesday. Both countries clash for the second time in four days as the qualification series for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations reach fever pitch. Friday’s first match ended 1-1 at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna with the Egyptians earning the equalizer, against the fairplay spirit, in added time. The Chelsea FC of England star noted that the Eagles have to fight harder than they have ever done to snatch the three points at the Borg El-Arab Stadium in the Mediterranean coast. “It’s a massive battle that we are going for, and there should be no illusion about it. We have to face reality, and everyone has to give more than 100 per cent because we just have to qualify for the Cup of Nations,” Mikel said Obi. The midfield enforcer insisted there was no reason to panic fol-

lowing Friday’s draw, and pointed to the fact that there are still three more matches left in the campaign. “We have to go to Alexandria and fight with everything we have. There are still matches to play and we have confidence that we will earn the ticket. We also call on Nigerians to believe in the team and continue to support us.” After the clash with the Pharaohs in Alexandria on Tuesday, the Eagles will travel to Nd’jamena to battle the Le Sao of Chad in the first week of June, before hosting Tanzania in the final round of the series in the first week of September. The Nigeria Football Federation yesterday confirmed that the players and officials will now travel to Alexandria on Monday aboard a chartered flight, as against an earlier arrangement to fly the delegation aboard Egypt Air on the insistence of the Kaduna state governor, Nasir El Rufai, who asked the team to stay back in Kaduna to refresh and put the drawn game against the Pharaohs behind them before embarking on the trip to Alexandria for the return leg fixture. The team will first fly to Abuja on Monday morning in a commercial flight

NIG vs EGY: Nigeria face CAF fine over crowded stadium

igeria could face African Football Confederation (CAF) sanctions for allowing too many spectators into the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna Friday for an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Egypt. An estimated 40,000 crowd was inside the 25,000-capacity venue when the match kicked-off after the Kaduna state government allowed fans free entry. “Nigeria will most likely be penalised by CAF for poor crowd control even though there was no major incident before, during or after the match,” said a source in CAF. “Sanctions for such a shortcoming would be a fine and a warning,” he added. Another official said the po-

lice failed to stop the crowd gaining access to the stadium even when it was clear that the capacity was overstretched. Many spectators watched the 1-1 draw from inside the seating perimeter while police, some on horses, patrolled. Other fans climbed a floodlights pylon to watch the clash of the former African champions. In 2009, poor crowd control in Abidjan caused 19 deaths before a 2010 World Cup qualifier between hosts Ivory Coast and Malawi. Investigators said ticketless fans were to blame for the stampede and the Ivorian FA was fined $47,000 by FIFA. A stampede at the Accra Sports Stadium in Ghana in 2001 resulted in 127 deaths.

before flying direct to Alexandria in a chartered flight. The Eagles have been scheduled to have the official training at the match venue in Alexandria, Egypt on Monday evening, before Tuesday’s match.

Mikel

Flamingos grab World Cup ticket

igeria has become the latest country to qualify for the 5th FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, after the country’s female national soccer team, the Flamingos defeated hosts South Africa 1-0 at the Makhulong Stadium in Tembisa on Saturday. Team captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, who netted four in the Nigerians’ 6-0 win in the first leg in Abuja, made scored again after NPFL Fixtures Mar 27 Sunshine vs 3SC Ikorodu

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Heartland vs

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Rangers

Enyimba

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Akwa Utd

El-Kanemi vs

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Pillars

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MFM

Wolves

Lobi Stars

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Tornadoes

atford FC of England striker, Odion Ighalo, has said he believes Nigeria could still get the victory they desperately need against Egypt on Tuesday to stay on course for next year’s AFCON in Gabon. Nigeria failed to beat Egypt in Friday’s match in Kaduna and now travel to Alexandria for the reverse fixture against the seven-time African champions on Tuesday, March 29. The Super Eagles thus remain two points behind group leaders Egypt after three rounds of matches in the qualifying tournament with only the overall group winners assured automatic qualification to Gabon 2017. “Egypt got a draw in Nigeria and I believe we can still go over there

to win,” declared Ighalo, who was closely marked by the Egyptian defence for the duration of the game. “It was disappointing that we did not concentrate till the last minute and that they didn’t give us the fair play, but we can still win on Tuesday. We need the three points in Egypt. It will be a tough task, but we are very capable. We will fight to get the victory in Egypt.”

Ighalo

Lagos Sports family honours Tinubu Dapo Sotuminu

s the leader of the All Progressive Congress, APC, and the Asiwaju of Lagos clocks 64, the Lagos sports family has planned to honour him in a special way with a novelty football match. The event scheduled for Sunday, March 27, at the Campos Mini Stadium on Lagos Island will feature a team of Nigerian ex-internationals who will be up against a selection of the Executive Council and top functionaries of the Lagos State Government. Among the stars to be on parade are Mutiu Adepoju, Gbenga Okunowo, Etim Esin, Yisa Sofoluwe, Joseph Yobo, Henry Nwosu, Taribo West, Ifeanyi Udeze, Peter Rufai and Austin Okocha. They will be coordinated by Tajudeen Disu, while Joe Erico, Tunde Disu and Joseph Dosu will form the coaching crew. Coaches Shuaibu Amodu and Austin Equavoen are also expected to be in the crew. The Chairman of the Organis-

ing Committee, Prince Ifalade Oyekan, who is also the chairman of the Lagos Divisional Football Association, in a press briefing held on Wednesday to unveil the programme, said the event is “just the Lagos Sports Family’s small way of giving back to the man who has impacted so much on the life of Nigerians and on the youth.” Also speaking at the occasion, Adeyinka Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant on Sports to the Lagos State Governor revealed that Chief Tinubu most popularly hailed as “The Jagaban” is a great lover of sports and strong supporter of Stationery Stores of Lagos and Manchester United of England. “We are celebrating an icon, a political guru and the most celebrated politician in Africa. We are inviting our political friends and the entire sports family in Nigeria to join us in honouring the Jagaban Borgu. Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be celebrated not only in politics and the media but also through sports because he has imparted a lot on the youths,” Adeboye said.

Solution to Cross Word Puzzle

business Agric/mining:

Nigeria's untapped goldmine

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FAITH

Sanctity of Truth

SUNDAY

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016

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Don’t be tired of sacrificing -Clerics counsel Nigerians }47

The Agatu Genocide: A country undergoing implosion (part 2) ENCORE We continue our discourse and the concluding part of the Agatu genocide this week. REMOTE CAUSES OF THE CRISIS: THE AGATU COMMUNITY VERSION The problem, according to the Agatu Community, has always been about farmlands. In 1986, sequel to the destruction of farmlands by the Fulani cattle and the killing of a woman on her farm, they were driven away by the people of Agatu. Now, the Fulanis, according to Achega, want to come back and they think the way to go about it is to attack their people, kill or drive away the survivors and then occupy their lands. On the immediate cause of the current crisis, the monarch said: “The present attacks started as a result of the problems the Fulani herdsmen had with Tiv people. There was a peace meeting to be held to settle the matter. Unfortunately Tiv people ambushed the Fulani leaders on their way to Ocholoyan and the Fulani blamed Agatu people for the attacks. "Since that 2013, the Fulani people said they wouldn’t agree to a settlement and, in January 2015 alone, they have attacked us more than four times but each time they come, my people repel them and they have been fighting with mercenaries.” He disclosed that although the Benue State Government had organised several peace meetings in the past, the meetings had only been between Tiv and Fulani. They have never involved the Agatu people. ALLEGED INVOLVEMENT OF MERCENARIES Oche Achega said his concern heightened, following the discovery that the Fulani raiders were also hiring mercenaries from Mali and Chad to fight Agatu people. In the process of repelling the attackers, the Agatu vigilante, he stated, discovered that some of them were indeed not Fulanis and had no idea of the terrain of the theatre of war. NO SECURITY COVERAGE The monarch lamented how the State and Federal Governments had abandoned his people to be slaughtered like beasts on their land. He said that it was only the initial attacks that attracted any form of response from the government as a few policemen and soldiers were sent there, but that it was only after the attackers had carried out the killings and destruction of their properties worth billions of naira. The negligence appears to be at all levels. The state government hasn’t made any discernable and serious effort to curb the attacks. The only time government had showed concern was when it sent a detachment of soldiers after the attack on Abogbe Community and left not quite long thereafter. Currently, there is hardly any visible security presence in the area. Numerous people on the coastal lines are no longer

The

Nigerian Project

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only) in their houses. The security agencies just occupy the communities for a short while and then leave with a promise to come back, but they never do because they know Agatu people would fight back. What kind of country is this? Where is Section 14 of the Constitution which talks about the provision of security and welfare to the people being primary purpose of government? VIGILANTE TO THE RESCUE According to the chief, the only resemblance of security in Agatu are the local vigilantes who are essentially young men who chose to die in the battle to repel Fulani attackers than stay in their parents’ homes and be shot dead or burnt. He regretted that the boys had no arms to match the attackers’ sophisticated weapons. Neither the federal, nor state government has shown much concern for the Agatu people in this regard, because there is no presence of security personnel in the affected communities. I believe this is pure negligence of governments at all levels. Could this be because the government is overwhelmed by grave insecurity across the country? Is the government incapacitated in fighting insurgency and insecurity? Can it, for heaven’s sake, tell us the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth? NOW THIS AGATU’S PATHETIC PLEA The Agatu people are not asking for much. Just a detachment of Mobile Police Force to the coastal lines like Abogbe, Ocholanya and Ogbanchenyi that have been sacked. The people are in the bush and there is no more land for them to farm. To be sure, Okpanchenyi is the town that produces the bulk of the food that is consumed in Benue State and beyond. Agatu people are mostly farmers and major agricultural contributors to the nation. And now that they are supposed to be preparing for the rainy season, they cannot do so because of fear. Hear what they have to say: “We want government to take a step to reconcile the Fulani herdsmen and Agatu farmers as it is seen in the civilised world. Agatu is ready for peace. I want to urge the state and federal governments to take practical steps to secure our villages. Farming is very important to us. What oil is to the Ogoni and other Niger Delta people is what agriculture

is to our people. Just as oil contributes to the nation’s economy, our farming contributes a great deal to the economy of this nation. Therefore, we should be allowed to pursue our legitimate means of livelihood without hindrance from any group of people in the country. We are on our ancestral land and we have nowhere else to go”. There is nothing more to add to this pathetic plea from an embattled people undergoing genocidal attacks. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that out of the 10 council wards in Agatu Local Government Area, only one ward was not affected in the bloody attacks. This is extremely sad. This is calling on the federal and state government and all security agencies to rise up to the occasion and halt further bloodletting, arson and misery of the Agatu people. The issue of Fulani cattle herdsmen as regards grazing purposes should be tackled once and for all. The

clashes between them and indigenes of towns across Nigeria are becoming too incessant, too embarrassing and certainly making a mockery of our security network and desire to live peacefully and harmoniously together as one nation. AND THIS THE BRUTE MILITARILIZATION OF RIVERS RE-RUN ELECTION In 2014, President Buhari and APC during their campaigns, lambasted GEJ for sending 500 security men to organise Ekiti governorship election. They argued that the military was being politicised. Now, in 2016, for a mere re-run election in Rivers State, the same Buhari sent the COAS, Buratai, AIG, Zone 6, Baba Bolanta, Three COPs, 6,000 regular policemen, 16 Units of Police Mobile Force, 2000 Men of Civil Defence. In all, over 20,000 security personnel were brutally used for the same purpose for a mere Rerun election. Those who think that we are like the Bourbons of European history who learnt nothing and forgot nothing, may be right after all. The whole world is watching. LAST LINE Are the people of Agatu, the Fulanis, Benue State Governor, the Federal Government, Rivers State Governor, Nigerians, etal, reading and digesting this Sunday sermon on the mount of the Nigerian Project by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, OFR? • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

Cross Word Puzzle

with Olulana Kayode 08023183727 Instructions on how to play the game •With reference to the ‘clues across’ and ‘clues down’ below, you shall try to provide answers to the clues, by writing the answer in the puzzle box provided on the left side. •The number in parenthesis indicates the total number of letters making up the solution or answer you will provide. •Keep on answering all the questions until all the spaces in the puzzle box are completely filled up. Good luck!

Clues Across 1 6 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 17 18 20

Insufficient supply, (8). Louse-infested, (5). Yoruba 'palm wine', (3). Morally bad, (4). Unit of illumination in physics, abbr. (2). Indicating 'opposite' (2). Measure of alkalinity, (2). Silver, abbr. (2). Late 2nd Rep. Kano Governor, (4). Gov. Rochas Okorocha's state, (3). Small fragment of baked food, (5). 360° view, (8).

Clues Down 1 2 3 4 5 7 12 13 16 19

Ex Jigawa state Governor, (4, 6). Be adjacent to, (4). Identification, (2). Produce something, (5). Ex Foreign Affairs minister, (10). Unit of Japanese currency, (3). Bend down limply, (5). Picture, abbr. (3). ___ Marwa, former Lagos MILAD, (4). Senegal, abbr. (2). Turn to page 55 for solution

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