The Nigerian
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vol . 39 • NO. 090 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 20 14 •N 100. 0 0
MEDIA Page 13 Newspapers and their ‘gargantuan’ Editors
Delta pardons 3 prisoners, Bornu 22 By OTAS OSAYANDE With Agency Report
ASABA -Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday pardoned three prisoners on death roll in the state in commemoration of
Nigeria’s 54th independence a n n i v e r s a r y celebration. Uduaghan used the occasion to reduce the prison term of nine others prisoners
who had their death sentences from ten years to fifteen years and life imprisonment respectively .“The death sentences of nine others, following the recommendations of the same council, I have also
committed the death sentences to various terms of imprisonment ranging from 10 years to 15 years and life imprisonment”. According to the governor, who spoke in Asaba at the Continues on page 2
Independence
CHILD HEALTH AND YOU
Page 15
Child nutrition and health
Jonathan asks terrorists to lay down arms
ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan has called on terrorists and insurgents waging war against the country to lay down their arms and embrace peace. He urged Nigerians In a nationwide to put aside all broadcast to mark p a r o c h i a l Nigeria’s 54th considerations and Independence rally round the Anniversary, Jonathan government and restated the commitment armed forces in the of his administration to fight against terror. bringing all terrorists to justice and making the country safe for all. He extended the olive branch to those with genuine grievances, saying that government would listen to them if they explored the dialogue table. The president said that as Commander-in-Chief, he would continue to do all it takes to enable the Armed Forces to keep “devastating blows at the heart of terror”.
“On occasions like this, it is important that we remember all the precious souls that have been lost in the unprecedented war of terror. “This war is unleashed on some parts of our country by these individuals who want to compel us to live our lives their way. They will
not succeed! “In their mission, they have maimed and raped. They have killed men, women and children,
rendering many children orphans and several women widows. “They have made violence their ideology
Motorists, passengers groan in gridlocks
INEC gives details of 2015 General Election OSOGBO - The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun on Wednesday said it has displayed notice of the 2015 general elections in line with its timetable and schedule. A statement signed by Mrs Adenike Tadese, the Chief Public Affairs Officer of the commission, said the notice had been displayed at the
headquarters and local government offices across the state. The statement said it was in “pursuant to INEC timetable for 2015 general elections and in accordance with provisions of Section 30 (1) & (2) of Electoral Act 2010 (as amended). “Notice of 2015 general elections should be published not later than 90 days before the Continues on page 2
TIT BIT “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” - Steve Jobs
and are bent on destroying our country. Dear countrymen and women, we will not allow them,’’ said the President. Jonathan paid tributes to the security and armed forces for their commitment and Continues on page 2
54TH INDEPENDENCE: President Goodluck Jonathan inspecting a Guard of Honour at the 54th Independence Presidential Change of Guards Parade at the Presidential Villa in Abuja yesterday. With him is the Commander, Presidential Guards Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Anthony Ommozoje
ABUJA - Motorists and commuters suffered long hours in gridlocks on roads leading into Abuja city centre from satellite communities as a result of security checks mounted by the military along the road. Among the roads affected are Abuja-keffi highway, Abuja-Suleja Road and Airport Road. On the Abuja-Keffi Road, which is characteristically a heavy traffic route , commuters stayed in the traffic for upwards of three to four hours. Newsmen reports that on the route, scores of vehicles struggled to pass the military checkpoints on Karu Bridge before joining the Continues on page 2
Inflammatory comments,
ABUJA - Senate President David Mark advised politicians to desist from making inflammatory comments capable of jeopardising smooth and acceptable general elections in
President advises politicians contained in a statement
2015. Mark, who spoke at a special church service to mark the 54th Independence anniversary at St. Mulumba’s Catholic
Chaplaincy, Apo, Abuja, said such statements could overheat the polity and create avoidable tension. The remark is
signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President, Mr Paul Mumeh, and made available to newsmen in
Senate
Abuja. The statement quoted Mark as reminding politicians that their individual ambitions are subordinate to national interest. Continues on page 2
News
Delta pardons 3 prisoners, Bornu 22
Continued from page 1 i ndependent anniversary
celebration, “I acted on powers conferred on me as governor of the state in accordance with section 212 of the 1999 constitution as amended”. He said, the pardon became necessary following the recommendations by the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy. “I have granted pardon to three prisoners that were sentenced to death. I have granted them total pardon following the recommendation of the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy”, he said. The governor however explained that his hands were tied in respect of a particular case of a 24-year-old who was recently sentenced to death following an appeal filed by the relatives of the convict.
“Once there is an appeal, we cannot do anything about pardon because the Supreme Court frowns at it. “By appealing, it simply means the people have not agreed that the boy has been convicted. The only way we can proceed is for the appeal to be withdrawn. “So, I am publicly telling the whole world the stage that we are. It is not because the governor is not aware of the appeals for his release, but the governor’s hands are tied because of the case in the appeal court. If the people are able to withdraw the case, we will look at it and do something about it,” he added. On the nation’s 54th independent anniversary, the governor appealed to those
behind the present insurgency in parts of the country to cease fire, saying that “enough is enough” of the wanton destroying of human lives and property. The governor also used the occasion to appeal to Nigerians to support President Goodluck Jonathan in steering the ship of state, just as he told them to pray for those at the war front putting their lives on the line for the nation to experience peace. Meanwhile, the Borno State Government said on Wednesday that it had granted pardon to 22 prison inmates in Maiduguri as part of the celebration of Nigeria’s 54th Independence. Gov. Kashim Shettima made
confronting terror. According to him, the steady progress being made by the country against insurgents justifies its cooperation with the international community. The president also described the success of the 2014 National Conference as the greatest centenary gift to the country which all Nigerians must cherish and sustain. According to him, the conference had taught all Nigerians a lesson that a multiethnic country like Nigeria must learn to embrace dialogue until consensus was established. “After months of deliberations by members of the National Conference, which did not come without its challenges, the conference concluded its assignment and has handed its Report to me. “I have made a firm commitment that we would act on the recommendations of the conference. “This, I have started by setting up the Ministerial Committee headed by the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation to work out the modalities for implementing the Report. “Every promise I make, God willing, I will see to its fulfilment. I assure you, we shall implement the report,’’ he said. The president also renewed his administration’s commitment to building and sustaining a strong democratic institution anchored on credible elections. Jonathan said the endorsement of the results of recent elections in some states by both local and international observers attested to the positive evolution of electoral credibility in the country. “We will continue to ensure that the will of the electorate prevails so that political leaders would be reminded at all times that there is a day of reckoning when they have to go back to the people at the polls. “Election days must not be days of violence and death. We must remain vigilant to ensure that our electoral process is characterised by peace, security and transparency. “I enjoin the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), all security agencies, politicians and the electorate to work conscientiously and peacefully, together, to consolidate on the gains of the recent elections. “Free and fair elections have come to stay; nothing else will be acceptable to our people,’’ he said. Jonathan noted that
“desperate” moves to overheat the polity were becoming regular occurrences as the country moved into an election year. “Our political leaders in particular must know that the contest for power should not translate to the destruction of the polity. “The contest for the leadership of our country must yield good governance, and not ungovernable spaces. The love of country should rank higher than our individual ambitions. “We must remain committed to a united and indivisible Nigeria within democratic parametres. “The protection of individual rights, liberty, equality before the law, freedom of thought, and a progressive pursuit of a sound economy must be our goal,’’ Jonathan said.
Jonathan asks terrorists to lay down arms
Continued from page 1 sacrifice even in the face of constant challenge and mortal danger. “My gratitude goes out to our armed forces whose will has been greatly challenged by this insurgency more than any other time, since the civil war. “Yet, they have remained undaunted and unwearied in the face of constant challenge and mortal danger. “Fellow Nigerians, it is our collective duty as patriots to avail our men and women in uniform of all the support they need to fight and win this war. “I urge every Nigerian to put aside political, sectional or other parochial considerations, and support whole-heartedly the efforts of the government and the military, in checking this evil,’’ he urged. The president stated that while the government continued to deploy resources in the fight against terrorists, it would also pursue initiatives aimed at bringing succour to victims of terrorism in the country. He said that the recently launched Victims Support Fund, which would aggressively solicit resources to complement other government’s intervention programmes, was one of such initiatives. Jonathan said government has in partnership with international leaders introduced the Safe Schools Initiative which is aimed at promoting safe environments for education nationwide, starting with the North East region. “The Presidential Initiative for the North East, a comprehensive programme to fast-track the economic restoration of this region, which has been the epicentre of terrorist activity, has been set up. “Our overall objective is to do all we possibly can, to sustain in the North-East, the momentum of economic advancement. “It should now be clear to anyone who was ever in doubt that these terrorists do not mean well for anyone, of whatever religion or dispensation. “Their persistent choice of the weakest and most vulnerable in society, for gruesome attack, provides an insight into their abnormal mind-set,’’ he said. The president expressed gratitude to the international community, especially the country’s neighbours, for working closely with Nigeria in
the announcement during an unscheduled visit to the Maiduguri Maximum Security Prison. Shettima said that the action followed the recommendation of the State Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy. He presented new sets of clothing and N50,000 cash to each of the prisoners to enable them travel home and reunite with their families. Shettima also announced approval for the release of N5 million to the prison authorities to enable them carry out general renovation of decaying facilities. He also donated a 27 KVA power generating set to the prison to help pump water from a new borehole provided by the government. Shettima, similarly, presented assorted food items, two bulls and 10 rams to the inmates to enable them celebrate the forthcoming Sallah. He advised them to take their conditions as a trial from God and change their ways for the better. “You are in prison today (yesterday) because it has been destined by the Almighty God, It does not mean the end of your lives. “Even some holy prophets were in one time or the other imprisoned but they came out the better,” Shettima said. He also urged them to pray for the country toward ending the current security challenges. Earlier speaking, Malam Inuwa Garba, the Controller of the prison, thanked the governor for providing a borehole at the prison. Garba also requested the governor’s assistance toward providing tools for the rehabilitation centre at the prison. He said that the 1,600 capacity prison currently has only 411 inmates.
INEC gives details of 2015 General Election
Continued from page 1 day appointed for holding of an election. ‘’Under this Act, notice is hereby given that election to the following offices shall hold.’’ The statement added that
the Presidential Election would hold on February 14, 2015 and the National Assembly election slated for February 14, 2015, while the state houses of assembly election was fixed for February 28, 2015.
Motorists, passengers groan in gridlocks in Abuja
Continued from page 1 expressway, where they had to join traffic from Mararaba a nd Nyanya and pass through another check at Kugbo. Similarly, those coming from Mararaba in Nasarawa State and Nyanya in the FCT, struggled through as tempers flared among drivers, who tried to manoeuvre through. Mr Jide Taiwo, a resident of Kurudu in the Federal Capital Territory, said he spent three and a half hours to get into the city, which is about 22km to his home. Taiwo said the toughest point was in Karu, a community that is 6km from the town, where he spent two and a half hours before entering the expressway. He accused the authorities of only striving to protect the powerful in the society to the detriment of the ordinary people. “Now, the town is free for
them, what happens around here does not bother them,’’ he said. A driver, Musa Danladi, expressed frustration that the situation had made business expensive. Musa said it was sad that parents were not encouraged to take their family members for recreation if the security checks continued. “Why is it that they mount these checks on holidays?’’ he asked. Also on the Abuja-Suleja route, security check-points, especially in Zuba, Kagini and Katampe Hill, caused serious traffic jam. Motorists and commuters spent more than two hours from Suleja to get to the FCT, resulting in commercial motorists transferring their passengers to other vehicles and returning back. An eyewitness who pleaded anonymity said some of the motorists were stopped at Kubwa pedestrian bridges by military personnel for check.
2015: Edo Assembly Speaker declares intention By MIKE OSAROGIAGBON BENIN CITY- The Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Uyi Igbe has declared his intention to represent Oredo Federal Constituency at the House of Representative in Abuja come 2015. Honorable Igbe made his intention known to the leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, yesterday. The declaration ceremony attended by a large number of APC chieftains and supporters took place at the Oredo Local Government Council Secretariat of APC in Uwa Street, Off 2nd and 3rd East Circular Road, Benin
City. The speaker disclosed to the gathering that his reason to represent them was triggered by his desire to attract Federal Government presence to Benin City. “I want to go to the Federal House of Representative in order to bring federal presence to Benin City. “I have been in the business of law making for seven years, so I can do it. I am not going there as a novice”, Hon. Igbe stated. He however decried what he called lack of federal presence in Benin City, assuring that “Oredo would function again” when he represents it at the House of Representatives.
Edo MDGs empowers 2,250 rural dwellers BENIN CITY - The Office of Edo State Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) has empowered 2,250 poor rural dwellers in the State in an effort to reduce extreme poverty and hunger in rural communities. This was contained in an address by the Executive Director/Focal Person MDGs, Princess Theresa Erediauwa at Abudu during the exit training of the beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) scheme in small scale agricbusinesses. She said the CCT scheme was introduced with the of objective of removing from poverty, those who are extremely poor in rural communities, for the purpose of addressing goal one of the MDGs which is to eradicate extreme poverty
and hunger. Princess Erediauwa remarked that the State is one of the 24 States in Federation selected to benefit from the CCT Scheme out of which five Local Government Areas are benefiting. They include Orhionmwon, Ovia South West, Esan South East, Etsako and Akoko Edo, according to her. The Executive Director explained that five communities were selected to benefit in, each of the five local government areas, while 90 poorest households in each of the selected communities are now being funded and would be given necessary skills for sustainability. According to her a total of 2,250 beneficiaries have been considered in Edo State and
Inflammatory comments Continued from page 1
“Nigeria must exist as a nation first before we could pursue our individual ambitions.’’ He, therefore, advised those fanning the embers of war and disunity to have a rethink, saying “we have more to gain by staying united’’. He reiterated that politics was a call for service and not a platform to cause disaffection among citizens. According to him, election is not a do-or-die affair, and we should know that only one political seat could be vacant at a time. The Senate President, however, warned mischief makers not to test the resolve of government as it had all it takes to deal with trouble makers. He explained that governance was a collective responsibility between the governed and the government. Mark further said the nation’s problems were not beyond the capability of
Nigerians, saying “all we need is the support and goodwill of Nigerians’’. “Therefore, it should not be seen as government versus the people, both exist in a symbiotic relationship. “We are in a complex society and there are bound to be disagreements or complaints. “There are also channels to address these complains or imbalances. “Taking up arms against your neighbours or government is certainly not a solution. We must see ourselves as brothers and sisters,’’ Mark said. Mark said the National Assembly would continue to promote legislations that would have positive impacts on the citizens. In the sermon, Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Innocent Jooji, was quoted as saying that peace and unity among Nigerians were right antidotes to achieve progress. Jooji prayed for God’s intervention to end the rage of terrorism and insurgency in the country.
News Independence Anniversary
Refuse Disposal
LG Boss Charges Health Officers To Educate Residents By LAMAI CASSIUS/ JENNIFER OWOBU
AUCHI- Chairman, Etsako West Local Government Area, Hon. (Barri) Hassan Kadiri has charged the environmental department of the local government to educate the people in the locality on proper ways of disposing refuse. The local government boss gave the charge at Auchi, the administrative headquarters of the local government while monitoring the statewide monthly environmental sanitation exercise in the local government area. Honorable Kadiri who frowned at the level of heaps of refuse on the streets whenever it rains, however warned residents to stop throwing refuse into the drainage system, saying it hinders free-flow of flood in the area. According to him, “my administration is trying all it can to ensure that the local government becomes one of the cleanest local
governments in the state”. He expressed hope that with the cooperation of the residents, he will achieve his set goal. He called on the Environmental Committee in the council to live up to its responsibility by ensuring that its members monitor the level of compliance with sanitation laws. The chairman however appealed to the residents to always clean their environments because of the inherent health benefit.
Benin Residents Agog By FAITH ISIKHUEMEN/ STALEY UGAGBE/ GODWIN OSAGIEDE/ JENNIFER OWODU
Acting General Manager, Bendel Newspapers Company Limited, Rev. Monday Aigbe (right), receiving congratulatory card from the Founder of Oronmile House Group, High Priest, Chief B.I. Osaigbovo on his elevation as a Reverend in the House of God during the group’s courtesy visit to the Management. Photo: SOLOMON ENAIGBE.
Ebola: Experts Advise Nigerians, Government LAGOS - Medical experts have advised Nigerians and government at all levels to sustain the preventive measures put in place to combat the spread of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). They gave the advice in separate interview with newsmen in Lagos against the background of the World Health Organisation (WHO) declaration that Nigeria had to some extent contained the virus. “The outbreaks in Senegal and Nigeria are pretty much contained.” Also reports state that the
To Sustain Preventive Measures
Federal Ministry of Health reported that there have not been any new case of EVD in the last 15 days. “Since the outbreak of the disease, Nigeria recorded 19 confirmed cases (15 in Lagos and 4 in Port Harcourt) and seven deaths,’’ it said. In his comment, Prof. Oyewale Tomori, a virologist with WHO, advised Nigerians to sustain the hand cleaning routine as Nigeria was not yet totally free of EVD. “I really commend the Federal
Heap of refuse in Auchi
and State Governments for their efforts in curbing Ebola virus in the country, but we have to sustain those efforts. “So long there are still cases of Ebola virus in our neighbouring countries Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia - we are not out of the woods yet because another Patrick Sawyer can still come into the country. “Nigerians should not also relax. We have to continue to practice proper hygiene, especially hand cleaning in everything we do,’’ he advised. Also, Dr Dan Onwujekwe, a public health expert with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, urged Nigerians to see regular hand cleaning routine as a way of life. Onwujekwe said that hand cleaning routine was not for the prevention of EVD, but for the prevention of other infectious diseases. “We lay emphasis on hand washing hygiene because the hand is the most active part of human body. It goes round and can carry viral organisms around and into the body. “Government at all levels should also intensify awareness and promotion of regular hand
washing as the number one strategy. “Proper hand washing is very important in that it is able to inactivate viral organisms,’’ he said. In his remark, Dr Bamidele Oke, another virologist, who works with NIMR, said that there was still risk of crossborder transmission from the high risk countries. “While some people are still on surveillance in PortHarcourt, and we have not had new cases in recent days, we should not relent in monitoring and surveillance of the disease. “Moreover, Ebola virus was imported to Nigeria and it is not endemic.
UNIBEN Students Hopeful For Better Nigeria By OMEIZA ROBINSON/ MBADUGHA KINGSLEY/ OMORODION LAWRENCE BENIN CITY- Some students of University of Benin (UNIBEN) have expressed optimism that, in spite the challenges the country was passing through, the situation would change for the better
Group Bemoans Attack On UNIBEN Vice Chancellor By FRIDAY OBANOR
BENIN CITY- Edo Unity League, a socio-political and cultural organisation based in Benin City, Edo State has condemned in strong terms the diabolic move by some persons to denigrate the management of the University of Benin (UBTH). The League in a three page reaction published in one of the local tabloid stated that the Vindictive Newspaper falsely accused the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Osayuki Godwin Oshodin of sexual
harassment, corruption and embezzlement which are falsehood. A statement signed by the organisation chief correspondent, Elder Amos Okonofua on behalf of the trustees and members of Edo Unity League stated that the practice before the emergence of Professor Osayuki Oshodin as Vice Chancellor was that of deliberate hatred and stereotype against staff of the University who are of Edo State origin. “Since the Agencies charged by law to investigate public officers on corruption have
found no wrong against the man, investigating him on the pages of newspaper after the surreptitious assassination-by poisoning of the vice chancellor miraculously failed, is a journalistic rebellion, which has no place in morality and law. “It behoves on us as Edo intelligentsia group to consistently propagate and protect the interest of Edo intelligentsia, particularly those in public office as well as those who have earned self esteem and integrity like Professor Osayuki Oshodin”, according to the statement.
The league cautioned against visiting jungle justice’, especially on public officers like Professor Oshodin, thinking that such act would earn them acceptance. “As Edo intellectual and cultural group, determined to consistently sensitize and conscientiously keep the general public abreast of happenings around our immediate environment, including innumerable gains that the university of Benin achieved under Professor Oshodin’s detribalized administration, we are poised to
BENIN CITY- Benin City was a beehive of activities yesterday as people of Edo Sate joined people in other parts of the country to mark Nigeria’s 54th Independence anniversary. When The NIGERIAN OBSERVER went round the Benin metropolis, various events marking the celebration were recorded at strategic places. At the National Museum situated at the Oba Ovoranmwan Square, families, friends, corporate bodies and various groups were seen savouring the fun it had to offer. Some respondents expressed joy over what they described as the nations birthday which they said offered them the opportunity to go for outing with their loved ones. Many citizens were adorned in the green and white attires and accessories depicting the colours of the national flag, while others carried miniature flags as they went about their normal businesses. Recreation centres and Eatries witnessed relatively high patronage as many fun seekers came in their numbers to have a feel of the celebration away from their homes.
pursue a legal and justiceable action against and for the libelous the local tabloid”, for the libelous publication against Professor Oshodin. “We make bold to say that not even the devil himself can harm a good man, let alone mere mortals who at the singular beck of God’s finger can lose their existence, yet they continue to cast aspersions on the person and office of the VC, university of Benin”. This is an aberration on the generality of the common patrimony of Edo People”. The statement added.
come 2015 before nation’s 55th independent anniversary. Speaking with The NIGERIAN OBSERVER, in Benin City, the students said that there is every cause to celebrate Nigeria at 54, because the future of the country is very bright and promising for future leaders. A 300 level student who simply identified himself as Tega, said that America had similar challenges many years ago just as Nigeria is facing some today, noting that with time, Nigeria would overcome these challenges and be well placed among the comity of nations. Another student who spoke with our Reporter, as Mike, also said that Nigeria will overcome all the pressing challenges very soon. According to him, “Nigerians should endeavour to speak well about this country because there is power in the tongue. “You cannot hear a British or an American citizen speak ill about their country, even when there exist obvious lapses”, he added.
News Arik Resumes Flight To Banjul
Crime Chamber Of Commerce Calls For Surveillance Cameras
Ebola:
IKEJA – Mr. Chris Ndulue, Managing Director, Arik Airline, says the company resumed flight operations to Banjul, Gambia, yesterday after its suspension due to Ebola virus disease outbreak. Ndulue told journalists at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, that the security and safety of air passengers and crew was a top priority to the airline. He noted that the airline would continue to work with both local and international health
Car Dealer Docked For Forgery
LAGOS - A 32-year-old car dealer, Divine Madu, who allegedly forged Nigerian Customs Service clearing documents for a car has appeared before an Apapa Magistrates’ Court, Lagos. Madu, who resides at No. 72, Yahaya Crescent, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, is standing trial on a twocount charge of conspiracy and forgery. The Prosecutor, Cpl. Soji Ojaokomo, told the court that the accused committed the offences on November 14 at Meche Park, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. He said that the accused conspired with another at large to forge Nigerian Customs Service document and bill of laden to sell a Jeep, valued at N3.7 million with Chasis number JTEBU14R580092559 to one Uche Okpala. “The complainant went to a car dealer simply identified as Onyebuchi in Surulere to purchase a Jeep but the dealer did not have the model he wanted. “Onyebuchi took Okpala to the accused, who had the exact model of car and the complainant paid N 3.7million and he was given the documents. “Okpala said he was driving the car to Port Harcourt and was stopped by the officers of the Nigeria Customs Service at Benin near Oluku Junction, and asked to produce his papers. “Okpala said to his surprise, the officials told him that import duty was evaded and nothing was paid on the car and subsequently seized the vehicle,’’ Ojakomo said. The prosecutor said that the offences committed contravened Sections 363 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Section 363 provides that any person who forges any document, writing or seal, is guilty of an offence, and he is liable, if no other punishment is provided, to three years imprisonment. The Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Oluyemisi Adelaja, granted the accused bail in the sum of N300,000, with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till October 29 for trial.
authorities to safeguard the health and well-being of its passengers. According to him, Arik would operate three weekly flights from both Lagos and Abuja to Banjul via Accra, Ghana, on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. “Outbound flight departs Lagos at 5:00 p.m. (Nigeria local time), arrive Accra at 5:00 p.m. (Ghana local time) and leaves Accra for Banjul at 8:00 p.m. (Ghana local time). “From Abuja, the outbound flight departs at 6:10 p.m. (Nigerian local time), arrive Accra at 7:00 p.m. (Ghana local time) and leaves for Banjul at 8:00 p.m. (Ghana time),’’ Ndukue said. He added that with the new schedule, the airline would be allowing the Banjul route to sell three market segments on one operated flight.
out of 25,000 hectares of irrigable area at the Hadejia Valley Irrigation Project. He said the irrigation project is a multi-purpose project that supports crop and livestock production and the development of fisheries in the predominantly farming communities living around the project site.
ONITSHA (ANAMBRA) The Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA) urged the state government to mount surveillance cameras in strategic locations to check crime. The President of the chamber, Dr. Tim Anosike, told newsmen in Onitsha that the advice became necessary owing to the emergence of a new gang of armed robbers, who operated on a hit-and-run basis in the commercial city. Anosike noted that with the new trend, it had become necessary for individual shop owners, markets authorities, and business places to mount surveillance cameras that would help detect crime as obtainable in developed countries. “Talking about security here in Anambra State, precisely Onitsha, may I also commend the Governor, Dr. Willie Obiano, for tackling that issue. “He started on a very good footing, but I want it sustained because you can still see that there are issues of crime - hitand-run on major highways. “But I believe that if security gadgets – cameras - are put in place, this thing will stop. “So, I advise that they should put all these gadgets on our highways, from Upper Iweka down to the tollgate and in major areas of the state so that if any crime is committed, it would be recorded immediately. “It’s very easy to detect with our detectives that are on ground and with lots of the security agencies we have; it is very easy to reduce all these things. “So I encourage them to go on. I know it is going to consume money, but then we need to start planning for the future generations.“ It was learnt that the bandits usually operate in daytime especially on the Borromeo roundabout and toll-gate axis of the Onitsha-Enugu road.
Also speaking, a civil servant, Mrs. Eneji Igbanya, said the call was timely because according to her, the Nigerian military alone cannot overcome the insurgents. “Though the military is doing its best, it is obvious that they are overwhelmed by the fire power of the Boko Haram insurgents. “The international community should come in to assist us with military hardware and technology, to help unravel the bases of these
making the call because if something urgent is not done, the terrorists may spill over from one country to another, further escalating global terrorism,” she said. Mark Edafe, an estate surveyor, said that the Boko Haram challenge required an internal approach and concerted effort by the political class, religious and traditional leaders from the affected areas.
Fun seekers at the Musuem ground in Oba Ovoramwen Square, Benin City during yesterday’s 54th Independence Anniversary. Photo: SOLOMON ENAIGBE
Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo inspecting a Guard of Honour during Independence Day in Owerri yesterday.
FG, Jigawa To Clear Typha Grass On Hadejia River
KANO - The Federal Government is collaborating with Jigawa State Government to clear typha grass on irrigation canals and on Hadejia River, Alhaji Abdu Dahiru, Managing Director, Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), has said. Dahiru made the disclosure in Kano in an interview with
newsmen. He said the exercise was carried out with the use of mechanical harvester provided by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources. He said that Jigawa Government provided fuel and personnel for the exercise while officials of the authority operated the harvester.
Goodluck Jonathan’s call on the international community to give united and adequate support to countries battling terrorism and insurgency. Jonathan made the call in his speech in the 69th UN General Assembly in New York last week. A cross section of Nigerians who reacted to Jonathan’s speech at separate interviews with newsmen described it as a
businesswoman, Mrs. Mariam Adamu, said that terrorism was a global challenge that called for concerted efforts by all nations. “Terrorism is a global challenge affecting various countries and regions of the world. So all nations, the international community must join hands to combat this dreadful monster which is destroying humanity. “We got some good news from
Dahiru said the clearing was necessary to improve the flow of water in irrigation canals and on river Hadejia. “The clearing will also reduce the menace of quealea birds due to the destruction of their roosting sites,’’ he said. The MD said the authority had so far developed 5, 300 hectares
Nigerians Back Jonathan’s Call For Global Effort Against peace and stability of extremist elements. ABUJA - Nigerians have “wake up’’ call. Terrorism undermining nations,” she appealed. “I commend Jonathan for continued to react to President A Kano-based the North East that the leader of the insurgent group, Boko Haram, has been killed but that does not mean that it is the end of Boko Haram. “I would like the Americans, Europeans, Asians and other parts of the world to come to our aid. “The international community should assist Nigeria and other countries facing terror attacks to eliminate these terrorists
Across The Nation Court Revokes Ebilah’s Bail, ABUJA - An FCT High Court has revoked the bail granted Emeka Ebilah, a former Secretary, National Economic Intelligence Committee (NEIC), for failure to attend court on three occasions. Ebilah is the second accused in the alleged N107 million fraud case involving Vincent Ogbulafor, a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Justice Ishaq Bello, who made the order after the submission of counsel, also issued a bench warrant for the immediate arrest of Ebilah. He said Section 153 of the Criminal Procedure Code cited by the counsel to the second accused, Mrs. Eghwere Osiaje, did not apply. The judge said the section requiring the presence of the accused was for him to rebut any incriminating evidence that might be brought against him. “In this case, none. What other evidence is there to determine. I do not think there is any, except to debunk the record of previous conviction,’’ he said. He described the absence of the accused as the “fear of the unknown’’ and ordered his arrest. Earlier, Osiaje had urged the court not to deliver judgment in the absence of her client, whom she said, was at the National Hospital, Abuja. “I seek the court to grant an adjournment to allow Ebilah appear and listen to the judgment. This is desireable as it is part of fair hearing,’’ she said. Osiaje cited Section 153 of the CPC and the Supreme Court decision in the State Vs Lawal and urged the court to indulge the accused another opportunity to listen to the judgment.
Orders His Arrest
The Prosecuting counsel, Mrs. Olayemi Akanmode, aligned herself with the argument of Osiaje. Akanmode, however, admitted when asked by the court that the prosecution did not take any step to find out the truth about the state of health of Ebilah. However, Ogbulafor’s Counsel, Mr. John Egwuonwu, in his submission, said that the presence of the accused as posited in Section 153 of the CPC “is only desirable and not mandatory’’. Egwuonwu argued that there would be no miscarriage of justice if the court delivered judgment in the absence of the second accused person. He said it was necessary for him to be in court “only when there is a conviction and a sentence is being passed. Egwuonwu contended that there was no medical evidence before the court on the state of health of Ebilah, adding: “it is his state of health that will determine whether he is fit to stand in court.’’ He said that Ogbulafor wanted to know his fate and had been consistent in court. On the court’s request for input from the bar, Mr. Samuel Ipinlaiye said the accused owed it a duty to be in court because it was a condition for his bail. Ipinlaiye said although illhealth was recognisable exemption to trial, “it is the duty of the counsel to the second accused person to certify that the accused is so ill as not to appear in court. “This contention can be verified with medical report from the hospital that he his lying ill. ‘The scenario depicts that the accused person is staying away from the trial,’’ Ipinlaiye said.
ESUTH Shootout: Police Vow
To Unmask Perpetuators
ENUGU - The Enugu State Police Command has vowed to unmask the hoodlums behind the shooting incident at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUTH). The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Ebere Amarizu, disclosed this in Enugu in an interview with newsmen. Amarizu said that the police command had commenced full scale investigations into the incident with a view to unraveling the mystery. He said that the students shot were receiving treatment at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku Ozalla. “Investigations are in full scale to unmask those behind
the incident with a view to bringing them to book. “The three injured students are responding to treatments at the UNTH, Ituku Ozalla,’’ he said. He assured the people that the police would do everything possible to ensure the protection of lives and property in the state. Amarizu appealed to residents of the state, including the university community not to panic over the incident. It will be recalled that gunmen had on Saturday night invaded Agbani campus of ESUTH and shot three students in the process. It was learnt that the incident occurred while the students were writing their examinations.
Another friend of the court, Mr. Chukwudi Chikelue, said the era of technicalities was over. “The duty of the court is to dispense justice without fear or favour,’’ he said, and added that the delivery of the judgment would not lead to any miscarriage of justice. “I urge my lord to deliver judgment today or in the alternative issue a bench warrant against Ebilah,’’ Chikelue said. Chikelue argued that the second accused had not shown anything in court to convince the court that he was sick. Ubong Awah, another friend of the court, urged the court to issue a bench warrant against the second accused in the interest of justice.
L-R: Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; former Head of State, General Mohammadu Buhari; Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State and his wife, Bisi, at the Independence Day and Merit Award ceremony in Ado-Ekiti yesterday.
Eid-El-Kabir
Ram Sellers Lament Low Sale
Area United celebrating Independence on Chuba Street in Port Harcourt recently.
NAHCON Completes Airlift Of Pilgrims To Saudi Arabia
IBADAN - Ahead of Monday’s closure of Saudi Arabia borders for pilgrims, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) said it has successfully completed the airlift of all Nigerian pilgrims. The Commission’s spokesperson, Malam Uba Mana, confirmed this to newsmen in a telephone interview from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Uba said that the last batch of 1,000 pilgrims was conveyed from Lagos and Kaduna centres. He said that by midnight
of Sunday all the 76,000 pilgrims from Nigeria, including 66,000 from various state pilgrims welfare boards and 10,000 from private operators, had been transported safely to Saudi Arabia for the exercise. Reports state that the Saudi authority had announced that it will close all its borders by midnight of September 29, while Arafat would be observed on Friday October 3. Mana said all the pilgrims are in high spirit and getting ready for the Hajj rites with the movement to Muna in preparation for Arafat on Friday.
He also said no casualty or death of has been recorded as the pilgrims were in good state of health. The spokesman said about 70 per cent of the pilgrims was transported directly from Nigeria to Madinah, this year, as against the previous practice of taking the pilgrims to Jeddah. It was also reported that this year ’s airlift of pilgrims, which commenced on September 6 in Dutse International Airport, ended in Kaduna on Tuesday.
ILORIN - With a few days to Saturday’s celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, ram sellers at various ram markets in llorin on Tuesday complained of low sales. Our correspondent, who visited the markets, reports that rams were in abundant supply with very few buyers. The ram sellers said they had been spending a lot of money on feeding the rams. Reports state that very big rams have price tags of between N140,000 and N160,000; the medium-size ones attract between N65,000 and N70,000 while small ones sell for between N25,000 and N 35,000. At Ipata market, Alhaji Mashood Oganija, a ram seller, lamented the low sale which he attributed to the current economic situation in the country. “Many prospective buyers have been coming to the market but they complained of not having enough money to purchase the commodity.’’ Oganija lamented that many of the seller took loans to engage in the business and some are now counting their losses’’. The ram seller called on the states and Federal Government to assist civil servants by giving them bonus to celebrate the festival to allow increased sale of rams. Some Muslim faithful in llorin told newsmen that they were still making efforts to buy rams for the festival.
Lagos Pay Withheld Emoluments Of Doctors, NMA Urges LASG LAGOS - The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State Chapter, has appealed to the Lagos State Government to pay the withheld emoluments of doctors in its employment. The Chairman of the association, Dr Tope Ojo, made the appeal at a news briefing in Lagos. Ojo said that it was worrisome that the Lagos State Government withheld the emoluments of its doctors for the month of August and September 2014 as a result of
the July 1 NMA nationwide strike. He said that all the states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory had complied with the general agreement that led to the suspension of the 55day NMA nationwide strike to pave way for peace and further negotiations. According to him, only Lagos State has yet to comply with the agreements. “It will be recalled that the NMA after series of negotiations with the government had some of its
demands met. “The sack of resident doctors was reversed and all outstanding emoluments had been paid as agreed which led to the suspension of its industrial
action. “But it is worrisome that till date, the Lagos State Government has held on to the emoluments of its doctors for August and September,. “Also, May 2012 salary is
being withheld till date in spite of several appeals. This made the state government the only one that has not complied with the general agreement,” he said. Ojo said the strike was not at
Insurance: Association Processes Over 50 Complaints
LAGOS – Mr. Julius Bruce, the National Secretary of Insurance Consumers Association (ISCAN), has said that the association had processed more than 50 complaints of insurance policy holders nationwide. Bruce said this in an interview with newsmen in Lagos that the complaints were processed between January and August 2014. According to him, the success profile in the insurance claims has further leverage the nation’s insurance confidence level by 40 per cent, among the downtrodden in the society. ‘’ISCAN receives complaints from consumers and check if it is admissible under insurance.
‘’Once the case is genuine, the association takes it up from there. ‘’The consumer who brings his complaint gets updated on the stage of our intervention. ‘’So far, the relationship between ISCAN and the insurance companies is blooming and issues have been resolved faster than envisaged,’’ he said. Bruce also said that the consumer association was open to all Nigerians who have interest in the insurance industry. He enjoined policy holders to avail themselves of the opportunity by sending their complaints as the association for prompt resolution of issues and payment of their genuine claims.
Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos acknowledging cheers at the Independence Day in Lagos yesterday.
N1.1bn Subsidy Fraud: Court Summons IKEJA - An Ikeja High Court that he has been threatened on has issued a summons against a several occasions and was Prosecution Witness prosecution witness, Mr. by Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, attacked at his house only Kehinde Akinmoloya, directing him to appear before it to testify in a fuel subsidy fraud case. Reports state that Justice Lateefat Okunnu issued the summons following a request
counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Akinmoloya, an engineer, had been scheduled to testify in the trial of an oil marketer, Opeyemi Ajuyah, accused of
Fraud: 2 Bureau De Change Operators Docked LAGOS - An Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos has started hearing in the case of two men, who allegedly defrauded a bureau de change operator of 50,000 dollars (N8.4million). The two accused, Noma Mohammed, 41 and Kabiru Mohammed, 32, whose residential addresses were not given, are facing a threecount charge of conspiracy, obtaining by false pretences and stealing. The Prosecutor, Insp. Stephen Molo, told the court that the accused committed the offences on August 14 at No. 12, Sanni Adewale St., Lagos Island, Lagos. He said the businessmen falsely presented themselves as bureau de change agents to one Alhaji Saminu Mohammed, who operates a bureau de change business. Molo said the complainant, who believed that the accused were genuine agents, gave them 50,000 dollars to
help him convert to the naira equivalent. The prosecutor said that after the businessmen received the money from the complainant, they did not convert the money as promised, but rather absconded with the dollars. He said the complainant reported the matter to the police and the authorities traced and arrested Noma in Lagos while Kabiru was arrested in Kano. According to Molo, the offences committed by the two men violate Sections 278(b), 312(1) (a) and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. Reports state that Section 312 prescribes 15 years imprisonment for anyone convicted of obtaining by false pretences. However, the accused pleaded not guilty to the
the instance of the Lagos State employed doctors but at the instance of the parent body of the association. According to him, we do not want to have an impression that the state government harbours ill-feelings against its doctors. “The LASU ASUU, LASPOTECH ASUP and Judiciary workers did not suffer the same fate following the suspension of their recent industrial action,” he said. Ojo said the association had met with the Lagos State House of Assembly, the Commissioner for Health and had also written two letters to Governor Babatunde Fashola for a peaceful resolution, but all to no avail. He appealed to Governor Fashola to use his office to facilitate the payment of the withheld emoluments of doctors in the employment of the state. He also urged well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on the state government to do the needful as the NMA remained committed to maintaining peaceful coexistence and industrial harmony.
charges. The Magistrate, Mr. J.A. Adegun granted the businessmen bail in the sum
of N250,000 each, with two sureties each in like sum. He adjourned the case till October 15 for mention.
N1.1 billion fuel subsidy fraud. Ajuyah and her company, Majope Investment Ltd., are standing trial alongside another oil marketer, Abdullahi Alao and Olanrewaju Olalusi, a staff of Sterling Bank. At the resumption of proceedings on Monday, Oyedepo told the court that Akinmoloya, who is a principal witness in the trial, had refused to honour invitations to give evidence in the case. “My Lord, the witness alleges
Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos, washing his hands on arrival for the Independence Day in Lagos yesterday.
recently, but was lucky to have escaped. “For this reason, he claims he is scared to appear before the court to testify,” Oyedepo said. He said in spite of several assurances the witness had refused to show up in court. Oyedepo, therefore, urged the court to issue witness summons against the witness before the next adjournment. The judge granted the request and directed the court registrar to issue summons against the witness. Earlier, an EFCC Investigative Officer, Mr. Effa Okim, was re-examined on his initial testimony before the court by the defence lawyers. Okim had on May 27 testified that the defendants had claimed that they imported 15,000 metric tonnes of PMS and thereafter collected the subsidy. He said it was later discovered that the ship — MT Brave — only discharged 4,264 metric tonnes at the Lister Jetty in Apapa. The investigative officer said the remaining product was diverted to an unknown destination which eventually implicated the company in the subsidy fraud. However, cross-examining Okim, Ajuyah’s counsel, Mr. Olarenwaju Ajanaku, argued that the EFCC failed to do a thorough investigation on the transaction.
News Farmers Advised On Storage Techniques
YENAGOA – Dr. Francis Umokoro, Director, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Bayelsa, has advised farmers in the state to ensure proper storage of their produce, to avoid post-harvest contamination and loss of
Peace, Culture
Women Group Calls For Early Education DAMATURU - A Yobebased NGO, Women for Peace and Security Network, on Tuesday urged parents to inculcate the culture of peace in their children at the early age. Hajiya Hauwa Bah, Chairperson of the network, made the appeal at a news briefing marking the International Peace celebration in Damaturu. “The family is the closest and first institution where children can be taught of good virtues, respect for human lives and practical peace for a sustainable future,” Bah said. She said the immediate environment “has great role to play in shaping an individual to appreciate peace and dialogue as the best ways of settling misunderstanding, misconceptions and differences among individuals, groups, societies and nations”. She said the insurgency in the North-East had impacted negatively on the development of the sub-region with so many lives lost and collapse of socioeconomic life. “We call on the insurgents to drop their arms, stop killing innocent people, come out to resolve real or perceived differences with government, people or institutions,” she said. The chairperson also said the network would collaborate with individuals, governments and institutions to build sustainable peace in the state and country. She commended the government, security operatives and traditional rulers for their contributions to the attainment of peace in the society. “We are also pleased that many individuals accommodated families that were displaced by insurgency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe,” she said.
products. Umokoro gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Yenagoa. He said that farmers in state should be mindful of the sanitary conditions of their storage facilities so as to protect their produce from pest and other fungal infections. “You can store farm products through the traditional methods such as using bans, bags and drums. “Beans, rice and corn can be preserved through the use of traditional methods in addition to the application of insecticide,” he said. The director said that the Federal Government was working hard to ensure speedy completion of silos being established in Igbogene, Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state.
participants at the Tertiary Education TrustFund and Federal Inland Revenue Service 2014 South-East Joint Interactive Forum in Enugu recently.
Bayelsa Rice Farmers Acquire 40,000 Hectares Of Land
YENAGOA - The Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Bayelsa chapter, has acquired 40,000 hectares of land to boost rice cultivation in the state. Mr. Ezekiel Ogbianko, who doubles as RIFAN Chairman in Bayelsa and South-South geo-political zone, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Yenagoa. Ogbianko said that the 40,000 hectares was made up of all the portions of land acquired in the eight local government areas of the state. He said that the Niger Basin Authority also gave some farmland to the association. “We have started work on 2,000 hectares of the land and
over 1,000 hectares has been cleared. “Right now, we have 1,000 youths who have embraced rice farming in Bayelsa and this is quite encouraging. “Agriculture, especially rice farming, is becoming more attractive to the youths in the Niger Delta region. This is because modern techniques have been introduced into farming,” he said. The chairman, however, called on more youths in the Niger Delta to embrace agriculture to benefit from the Federal Government’s agricultural initiatives.
Ogbianko said that massive and mechanised agriculture would not only provide enough food for the citizenry but also create jobs for the unemployed youths. He said that 3,000 cooperative societies have been registered to engage in
commercial rice production in the state. The chairman said that the federal government had been quite supportive by providing the necessary inputs and commended the Niger Basin Authority for its assistance. “RIFAN in the state is
committed to support the federal government’s efforts to ensure rice sufficiency by 2015; our environment is good for cultivation of rice. “We do not need irrigation due to the swampy nature of our land,” Ogbianko said.
will sustain the fight against HIV/AIDS in the state. Mr. Roy Ndoma-Egba, Special Adviser, Department of International Donor Cooperation (DIDC) in the state, disclosed this to newsmen in Ikom. Ndoma-Egba said that the measure became necessary because of the anticipated withdrawal of funding on HID/AIDS prevention in the country by international donor partners. He said: “We anticipate that at one point, there will be donor fatigue and what we as a state will institutionalise our processes so as to sustain the war against the scourge. “Already, there is a donor policy that has reached its last stage and in the next few weeks, we will forward our proposal to the State Executive Council (SEC). “We also have the state counterpart fund law which is an institutional arrangement that will guarantee counterpart funding for all
our programmes. “So with those two very significant steps, I think we are very close to achieving that.’’ He said the state government was committed to the fight against the disease by establishing the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SACA) and Local Action Committee on AIDS (LACA). The adviser said that the state government had ensured adequate funding of the state’s LACA. “We have also made progress in the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS. “The same goes for the ante natal care for pregnant women in all our health facilities across the state,” he said. Ndoma-Egba said that the prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS in the state was 7.1 per cent and blamed the situation on the state’s proximity to other states with high prevalence rates.
Cross River To Sustain Fight Against HIV/AIDS IKOM (CROSS RIVER) - The Cross River Government says it plans to institutionalise a policy that
L-R: Representative of Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trustfund (TETFUND), Mr. Oladipo Salawu, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Prof. Aloysius Uzuagulu; representative of TETFUND BOT Chairman, Mr. Olusegun Jeboda and representative of the Acting Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Joel Ogohi, at TETFUND/FIRS 2014 South-East Joint Interactive Forum in Enugu recently.
Abuja Mutiny: Trial Of Another Set
Of Soldiers Holds Today
ABUJA - The Army Authority has postponed to today the General Court Martial of some soldiers charged with alleged mutiny. Reports state that the trial was to have been held at the Mogadishu Cantonment. The postponement of the trial was confirmed to newsmen on Tuesday by a military source, who did not want to be named. However, when contacted, the spokesman of the Garrison, Col. Aliyu Yusuf, claimed ignorance of the court martial but promised to inform journalists, whenever a date was fixed for the trial. The source also said lawyers representing the accused soldiers met with legal officers of the court martial on Tuesday morning and agreed to shift trial till Thursday because of the independence holiday on Wednesday. One of the lawyers
appearing for the soldiers, who spoke to newsmen on condition of anonymity, also confirmed that the trial was postponed till today. “When I got here (trial venue) this morning, I was told that the court martial has been postpone till today because of the independence anniversary” he said. Our correspondent who was at the venue of the trial at about 10.45 a.m. reports that the court was under lock and key. Reports state that some junior officers sighted in front of the court directed journalists to the spokesman of the Garrison for comment as they were not permitted to speak on the matter. It was learnt that the soldiers who are standing trial were alleged to have committed mutiny by “refusing to join troops for an operation’’ in Maiduguri on August 4.
L-R: Charge D’Affairs, Republic of Rwanda, Mr. Drotogene Nsengumuremyi, Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Daniel Ole-Njoolay and a Guest Lecturer, Dr. Asmau Maikudi, at a lecture on Towards 2015 Elections in Abuja recently.
Acting IGP Authorises Issuance Of Tinted the same authority as that Glass Permit which is issued by the
ABUJA - The acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Suleiman Abba, has authorised Commissioners of Police in the 36 states and the
Don Urges Africans To Share Rwanda High ABUJA - Prof. Michael Chege Experience d’Affairs, Commission in Nigeria, urged of the African Research and Democracy:
Resources Forum, Nairobi, Kenya, has urged African countries to learn from one another in tackling challenges facing the development of their democracies. Chege, who is an Adviser, Ministry of Planning, Kenya, gave the advice at the 4th lecture series towards 2015 general elections, organized by the African Vision 525 Initiative in Abuja on Tuesday. Chege’s lecture on “the constitutional reform process in Kenya from 1990 to 2010 and its effect’’, was delivered by Mrs. Amina Salihu, the Co-Director, Board of Directors, Nigeria Women’s Trust Fund. He said no set of reforms would work everywhere in Africa, “but learning from each others experience is something we need more’’. Chege said in spite of all the trails Kenya and other African constitutional experience were facing, he was optimistic that the continent would learn to govern itself better from the experience. “The economies of the region are showing more promise than at any other time since independence. “Not all is perfect I admit, but we must not lose the momentum nor give in to those who identify everywhere with failure. “Working on our problems in tandem and with more interAfrican consultative forums like this one, we will overcome our challenges now just as we have done in the past,’’ he said. Commenting on the lesson for constitutional reformers in Africa, Chege said it had now become easier for African countries to adopt new or revised constitutions than to implement them. He added that comparative constitutional behavior in Africa
was a subject that now called for more energetic study. Chege, however, stressed the need for Africans, especially Nigerians, to allow more women participation in politics, as one of the key lessons they must learn from Kenya experience. “Under electoral reforms, the constitution set aside 47 special seats for women in parliament out of 299 senate members to be elected. “In the Senate, 16 women in addition to the 47 elected senators, are to be elected by parties on the basis of proportional representation. “Countries’ assemblies must reserve 30 per cent of their seats to women,’’ he said. Sharing his country’s experience, Mr. Protogene Nsengumuremyi, Charge
the government and appropriate authorities to ensure women received more chances in politics. Nsengumuremyi stressed the need to ensure that people living with disabilities and youths were more involved in politics and decision making. Meanwhile, Prof. Okello Oculi, the Executive Director of Africa Vision 525 Initiative, expressed optimism that lesson learnt from the lecture series would boost electoral process in Nigeria. Ocili pledged that the NGO would continue to make its contributions to develop democracy and the conduct of credible elections in the country.
FCT to issue permit for tinted glass vehicles. This is contained in a statement issued by the spokesman of the force, Mr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, an acting Commissioner of Police, on Tuesday.
The statement said that the decentralised arrangement was to bring the service close to the people. According to the statement, permit issued by the commissioners had
Force Headquarters and is valid throughout the federation. It, however, directed motorists applying for the permit to submit their vehicles for examination to ascertain that the tint in them was factory-fitted.
Senator Expresses Worry Over High Unemployment Anniversary, there was a need to
ABUJA - A lawmaker, Sen. Ben Gyade, representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has expressed concern over the rate of unemployment in the country, particularly among the youth. Gyade, made the remark in an interview with Newsmen in Abuja. He said while Nigeria had made tremendous progress in many spheres since independence, there was a need to pay adequate attention to employment. He added that as the country marked its 54th Independence
Scripture Union Nursery and Primary Schools during their March past at Independence Day in Uyo yesterday.
concentrate on providing job opportunities. “There is no way a nation can pride itself when her youths roam the streets without jobs. “When they come out of universities with degrees and they have no jobs. “Job creation cannot be job creation that it is not sustainable. That job that you are creating must in itself raise enough money to pay that person. “That is where the challenge comes in and that is why we should be focusing more on agriculture and not to mention oil and gas,“ he said. He, however, commended the Federal Government for focusing on agriculture, saying, if properly explored, the sector would offer job opportunities to the teeming unemployed Nigerians. The lawmaker stressed that there was reason to celebrate the country’s 54th independence anniversary, stressing that the country had advanced in many areas in spite of population growth and other challenges. “Because you have been in a state for so long, you never realise when there is progress but progress is surely occurring and I think we have made progress. “We have made progress in the polity, in the civility of the mind and in the nature and character of people; that is at the human capital level. “If you look at the commercial, industrial levels we have also
made tremendous progress. Africa looks at Nigeria now as the fastest growing economy and indeed the whole world. “The perspective is clear. Chinese are coming in large numbers; America is even getting more worried. There is also more liberal approach to Nigerians in terms of accessing visas,“ he said. On his part, Prof. Okechukwu Okoh, Director, Legislative Support, National Institute for Legislative Studies, said Nigeria had made progress since independence despite some challenges. He added that Nigerians were gradually benefitting from the dividends of democracy as citizens were at now the centre of governance. He commended leaders for the efforts made in repositioning the economy, adding that, given the right environment and proper support they would drive the country to an enviable height. Speaking on the state of security, the director restated the need to tackle poverty and unemployment, noting that they contribute greatly to insecurity. “There is no country in the world that is 100 per cent secure. We have to address environmental factors that produce insecurity; poverty, unemployment. “I remember what Kennedy said. If you can’t take care of the many, who are poor, you can’t protect the few who are rich,’’ he said.
Business + Economy Stakeholders Advocate High Level Of Literacy
LAGOS - Some capital market operators have urged the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to ensure high level of capital market literacy among Nigerian investors. The experts in separate interviews with newsmen in Lagos noted that that capital market literacy in the country still remains low. Mr. Gbenga Obisesan, the
Managing Director, Topmost Securities Ltd., said that research has shown that the level of capital market literacy in Nigeria stood at 16 per cent. Obisesan said that the outcome of the research was a clear indication that there was still a lot of work to be done in respect of capital market literacy. According to him, capital market literacy in Nigeria cannot be said to be new because it is as
old as the institution of capital market, yet no desirable outcome was achieved. Mr. Dele Odusanya, a Stockbroker with Quantum Securities Ltd., said that capital market literacy programmes in the country currently lack strategic direction and proper coordination. Odusanya said that there should be an increase in public awareness about the market,
suggesting that capital market literacy programmes should be included in curriculum of professional bodies, schools and Universities. He said the capital market was yet to be where it should be, adding that its contribution to GDP was low and in terms of its relevance and active participation in the key sector of the economy. Meanwhile, the All-Share Index of the NSE depreciated by 229.55 points or 0.56 per cent last week to close at 40,819.72 from the 41,049.27 achieved in the preceding week. Also, the market capitalisation dropped by N76 billion or 0.56 per cent to close at N13.478 trillion from N13.554 trillion realised in the preceding week
due to price depreciation. Ikeja Hotels Plc topped the losers’ chart in percentage terms by 29.30 per cent or 63k to close at N1.52 per share. Tranportarion Wide Express trailed by 17.18 per cent or 28k to close at N1.35, while Jos International Breweries dropped by 13.82 per cent or 34k to close at N2.12 per share. On the contrary, May & Baker Nigeria led the gainers’ table in percentage terms by 36.43 per cent or 51k to close at N1.91 per share. A.G Leventis followed with a gain of 16.67 per cent or 22k to close at N3, while Mansard Insurance gained 16.28 per cent or 42k to close at N3 per share. A turnover of 1.586 billion shares worth N26.92 billion
were achieved in 22,238 deals against 3.752 billion shares valued at N62.12 billion achieved in 22,109 deals in the previous week. The financial services sector remained the most active, accounting for 1.11 billion shares worth N8.77 billion traded in 11,102 deals. The conglomerates sector came second on the week’s activity chart, trading 158.53 million shares worth N989.50 million in 1,640 deals. Reports state that the consumer goods sector followed with a total of 92.42 million shares valued at N5.86 billion in 3,307 deals.
NSE: Equity Transactions Turn
L-R: Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Ashrof Salama; Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State and Vice Chancellor, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, Prof. Saminu Abdulrahman, during Governor Yuguda’s inspection visit to ATBU Permanent site in Bauchi recently.
Overhaul Maritime Training, Association Urges FG LAGOS - Capt. Saib Olopoenia, President, Nigerian Association of Master Mariners (NAMM), urged the Federal Government to overhaul the curricular of the nation’s maritime training institutes to meet global standards. Olopoenia made the appeal in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. He said that emphasis should focused on equipping the Cadets’ National Maritime Institutes, contrary to the current clamour for the establishment of more maritime schools. “You will agree that creating the schools is not the issue but demand for quality as is expected internationally. “The knowledge and practical experience gained will be used internationally, so, the training must take that into consideration,” Olopoenia said. He said that the contributions of the maritime sector to the national economy had made it imperative for the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, to be upgraded to international standard. He said this had become necessary in spite of the new maritime schools established by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). Reports state that NIMASA recently established a Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta, in addition to other privately-owned maritime academies across the nation. Also speaking with newsmen
Capt. Dennis Osah, a former President of the association, noted that seafarers must be offered quality training. Osah said that in addition to quality training for maritime students, government must also make a conscious effort to create employment opportunities for the cadets. “As the schools are established, they should ensure the cadets get full training with sea-time. Jobs should be created too, having in mind that there is
no national carrier.” The immediate past President of the association, Capt. Jimi Adu, told newsmen that NIMASA should be given the benefit of doubt for quality training in the new maritime schools since they had the capacity to finance them. He also expressed concern about the current capacity of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, stressing that the academy needed total overhaul to meet the demands of international maritime community.
LAGOS - Activities at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) were reversed to the upward trend after depreciating for two consecutive days. Meanwhile, the market capitalisation and the AllShare Index for the two days of bearish trade amounted to a total N26.92 trillion and 81,521.32 points respectively. Reports state that the market capitalisation, which opened at N13.385 trillion increased by 0.67 per cent or N90 billion to close at N13.475 trillion. Similarly, the All-Share Index rose by 272.12 points or 0.67 per cent to close at 40,809.32, compared with 40,537.20 declared on Tuesday following price depreciation. Guinness led the gainers’ chart by N6.01 to close at N180 per share. Dangote Cement gained N6 to close at N225, while Glaxosmith grew by N4.74 to close at N64.74 per share. GTBank appreciated by 9k to close at N28.9, while Champion chalked up 43k to
President, Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria, Comrade Shehu Sani (left) addressing members, Coalition of closed unpaid Textiles Workers Association during their protest in Kaduna recently.
Bullish
closed at N9.45 per share. On the other hand, Nestle recorded the highest price loss, shedding N19.9 to close at N10.50 per share. Seplat trailed with a loss of N10 to close at N640, while Mobil dipped N5.95 to close at N174 per share. Forte Oil lost N5.85 to close at N219, while Lafarge Wapco went down by N1.5 to close at to close at N128.5 per share. The financial services sector came as the investors’ delight as UBCAP emerged the most traded equity with 154.38 million shares valued N324.15 million.
AIICO Insurance exchanged 42.62 million shares worth N34.09 million, while NEM Insurance sold 27.19 million shares worth 22.91 million. Zenith Bank traded 21.42 million shares worth N514.00 million, while GTBank accounted for 19.31 million shares worth N544.76 million. Consequently, the volume of shares traded increased by 45.31 per cent as investors exchanged a total of 427.766 million shares worth N11.90 billion in 4,342 deals. This is against the 294.390 million shares valued at N3.49 billion traded in 5,097 deals on Tuesday.
Turkish Airline To Commence Operation
ENUGU - Nigeria and Turkey will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Turkish Airline to commence operation at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, Vice President Namadi Sambo said. Sambo said this in Enugu during the rally organised by a group known as the Enugu Movement for the Re-election of Jonathan. He said that five Turkish airlines would be joining their Ethiopian counterpart, the only airline currently operating at the airport. “This is going to be a big feat because five airlines from Turkey will be departing from the airport per week. “We are going to have all the world’s airlines here because we want to make Enugu the hub of business in the aviation sector,” he said. The Vice President said that locating the International Helicopter Flying School in the state had given it the leverage to grow in the sector. “More workers will be deployed at the helipad built by the state government and this will boost the state’s economy.” Sambo said that the Federal Government had approved the sum of N220 million for Micro, Small and Medium Scale
Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state. He said that the Federal Government had also put modalities in place for the establishment of a gas pipeline to generate 1,000 mega watts of electricity in Enugu state. “We are doing everything to ensure that the state is improved in terms of power supply to support economic activities of the people here. “The Federal Government has also concluded plans to employ 12 million Nigerians in the next eight months,” Sambo said. Earlier, Governor Sullivan Chime pledged the support and of the loyalty government and people of the state for President Goodluck Jonathan. According to Chime, “all we do in Enugu, we owe to the President and PDP”. Reports state that dignitaries at the event included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, former Senate President, Chief Ken Nnamani and Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra. Others are former governors of the old Anambra and Enugu states, Chief Jim Nwobodo and Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo respectively, and the Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Prof. Rufai Ahmed, among others.
Health
Alzheimer:
ALZHEIMER’s disease (AD) is not common but a very deadly disease. It is the most common form of dementia. It causes problems with memory thinking and behaviour. Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that seriously affects a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Alzheimer begins slowly first it involves the parts of the brain that controls thoughts, memory and language. The connections between the brain cells and the brain cells themselves degenerate and die causing a steady decline in memory and mental function people with Alzheimer may have trouble remembering things that happened recently or names of people they know. Over time, the disease get worse, there comes a time, when the carrier will have trouble speaking they may forget how to brush their teeth or comb their hair. Later on they may become anxious or aggressive, or wander away from home. Alzheimer’s comes in two types, the early onset Alzheimer’s and the late onset Alzheimer’s disease. In the early onset AD, the symptoms appear before the age of 60. This is much less common and tends to get worse quickly. The late onset Alzheimer’s on the other hand is the most common type of Alzheimer’s disease. It occurs in people of age 60 and older. It may run in some families but the role of the genes is less clear. The cause and progression of Alzheimer’s is not well understood. But it is believed that genes and environmental factors seen to play a role. It is likely that the cause include genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. Because as people differ in genetic makeups and lifestyle, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s may differ from person to person. Also, research indicates that the features of this disease are plagues and tangles in brain. Plagues consists of clumps of protein called beta aryloid that damage and destroy brain cells in several ways, including interfering with cell-to-cell communication while tangles occurs when the threads of tau protein (the protein that facilitate the transportation of nutrients and other essential
The Irreversible Disease
material from the brain cells to various parts of the brain) twist into abnormal tangles inside the brain cells, leading to failure of the transport system. This failure facilitates the death and decline of brain cells. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the following are the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. However each individual may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms include memory loss that affects job skills, difficulty performing familiar tasks, problems with language, disorientation to time and place, poor or decreased judgement, problems with abstract thinking, misplacing things, changes in mood or behavior changes in personality and loss of initiative. Although Alzheimer’s has no cure, the treatments for symptoms are available. The current treatments cannot stop Alzheimer’s from progressing, but can temporarily slow the worsening of the disease. As of 2012, more than 1,000 clinical trials have been conducted to test various compounds in Alzheimer disease. Alzheimer’s disease usually begins after 60 (late – onset Alzheimer’s disease). The risk is also higher if a family member has the disease or had the disease. Statistics shows that the number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease worldwide currently totals 30 million, which is expected to triple by the year 2050. Estimates show that in 2013, Alzheimer’s disease will cost Americans $203 billion a number that is expected to rise to $1.2 trillion by 2050. Experts suggest that as many as 5.2 million Americans may have Alzheimer’s disease. The number of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease will grow as the U.S population age 65 and older continues to increase. By 2025, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s disease is estimated to rise to 7.1 million. By 2050, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States may triple, from 5.2 million to a projected 13.8 million.
By UTI A. UDOH
Alzheimer’s disease which is prevalent in two – thirds of dementia of the elderly in Caucasian population is under – documented and believed to be rare in Africans. A recent autopsy survey of the brains of elderly Nigerians showed absence of senile plagues and neurofibrillary tangles. In a door-to-door survey of a population of 9,000 including 932 elderly Nigerians, no subject with dementia as defined was found. This shows that the number of people with Alzheimer’s in Nigeria is less.
innate immune system plays a critical role in removing beta – amyloid, the main substance that triggers Alzheimer’s in the brain. Today, there have been worldwide effort to find better ways to treat this deadly disease and prevent it from developing. A new research on AD suggests that it is actually a type of diabetes. Also a recent study out of Rhodes Island Hospital (RIH) confirms that Alzheimer’s disease is marked by brain insulin resistance and corresponding inflammation, a
As the number of people with Alzheimer’s continues to rise at an downing pace, researchers continue to look at means to halt the progression of this horrific disease. Past studies have identified grape seed extract, curcumin, resveratrol and vitamin D among a host of other substance that can positively improve brain health and shield it against Alzheimer’s disease. A new study from researchers at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry at Exeter’s University in the U.K (United Kingdom) collaborated with a team from the National Institute on Agin in the US to prove that our
condition that some researchers are now referring to as type – 3 diabetes. Another recent research has suggested that Alzheimer’s disease may result from insulin resistance specifically in the brain, and as resveratrol is known to cross the blood brain barrier, the compound may prevent faculty insulin signaling that promotes then degenerative condition. Furthermore scientist studies have previously demonstrated that the way we live and our diet can have a major effect on genetic expression which can promote the development of Alzheimer’s disease. A new study by neurological
“Alzheimer’s disease which is prevalent in two – thirds of dementia of the elderly in Caucasian population is under – documented and believed to be rare in Africans. A recent autopsy survey of the brains of elderly Nigerians showed absence of senile plagues and neurofibrillary tangles.”
researchers from Push University Medical Center demonstrates that daily physical activity may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline, even in people over the age of 80. Healthy diet including food known to suppress sharp insulin and glucose spikes along with sensible supplementation (curcumin, resveratrol, grape seed extract and omega – 3 fatty acids) and regular physical activities may help halt the development of Alzheimer as we age. Load author of the study Dr. Aron S. Buchman noted “the result of
biological marker is found in the Celebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) at least 10n years before signs of dementia become apparent Spanish researchers at the CSIC Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona believed that they may have found a marker that could suggest – the disease process in underway before symptoms start to show. They found a drop in the content of Mitochondrial DNA – genetic material present in the energy centre of cell in spinal fluid may be a signal for the disease. According to the scientist, this discovery could allow a
our study indicate that all physical activities including exercise as well as cooking, washing dishes, and cleaning are associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease”. As more research are made available, scientist made it increasingly clear that breastfeeding children provides infinitely more longterm health benefits to both baby and mom. A new study shows that mothers who breastfeed run a lower risk of developing. Alzheimer’s disease later in life. The research indicates the link may have something to do with key biological effects of breastfeeding. Scientists also found that breastfeeding for longer periods of time decreased overall risk. Moreso, a new test that could detect Alzheimer’s disease for at least a decade before symptoms has been widely talked about. The test could defect Alzheimer’s if the
new diagnostic test that will enable patients to be given treatment long before their debilitating symptoms appears. Currently, the only way to actually diagnose AD is in post motern (After Death) by linking chemical measures with an examination of brain tissue and pathology in the autopsy. But doctors have developed a means to find out fairly accurately if a person who is having memory problems has possible Alzheimer’s dementia. Professor Ramon Trullas, who led the research at the Institute of Bio Medical Research of Barcelona, Saidi “If our initial findings can be replicated by other lab laboratories, the results will change the way we currently think about the causes of Alzheimer’s” he added that “this discovery may enable us to search for more effective treatments that can be administered during the preclinical stage”.
AS we approach the February 2015 general elections, enthronement of democratic principles and standard is sine qua non. it is an acceptable truism that one of the political realities of our contemporary global system is democracy. IT is a political process which focuses on the necessity and imperative of governments to rule only by the Consent of the majority. The popular belief Is that properly understood and practised, democracy can remove the layers of national socio-economic and political darkness. Countries that have attained the Status of mature democracy Continue to insist that It will be absolutely difficult to get things done in pluralistic society with poor records of democratic values and practices. WITH the way things are going politically in contemporary Nigeria, it is very doubtful, whether Nigerians will ever realise the dreams of allowing democratic tenets to influence the Country’s political life. IN this connection, democratic reality implies that all Nigerians must be willing to take difficult democratic decisions, and must see the benefits in supporting their Country’s democratic Institutions by exercising their franchise as voters, known collectively as the electorate. With the current state of democracy in the country, many Nigerians have openly wondered whether the struggle. For political independence was a worthwhile exercise. Clearly, all is not well with democracy in Nigeria. Still, democracy remains the only viable and sustainable weapon for tackling national backwardness and for securing recognition and respect from the international community. No one will ever doubt the political fact that a strong democratic foundation will provide Nigerians with the opportunity to. choose their own future. THERE is need for all Nigerians to work together democratically, and openly express, indeed, demonstrate their commitments to the development of democracy. One of the disturbing features of the Nigerian democracy
THE NIGERIAN
Role Of Democratic Players is that the Nigerian elite have not demonstrated enough support for the country’s democratic process, especially in times of increasing political uncertainties. The bulk of the Nigerian elite have virtually abandoned political involvement in government and governance. They have left the process of democratic development in the hands of the ‘politicians,” which may well explain the low level of adherence to democratic procedures and values in the country * ONE of the reasons why most of the highly development States are experiencing stable democracy is the undiluted commitments of their elite to ensuring right political governance. It must be repeatedly stressed that Nigeria will find it hard to rise to the much desired political status of becoming one of the most stable and progressive democracy, if the Nigerian elite choose to remain on the political fence, or exist as mere political spectators. Undoubtedly, the Nigeria elite can, just as their overseas counterparts have demonstrated, contribute to the growth Of the Nigerian democracy. Greater elite participation in the country’s democratic process must become the defining characteristics of Nigeria’s political System. Despite marking 54 years as a nation, the political attitude of the majority of the Nigerian elite has been predominantly negative. It thus appears that Nigeria’s efforts to advance democratically will require a new shift in favour of greater elite involvement in the nation’s
politics. THERE is no doubt that the degree of support for democracy is largely influenced by economic fortunes. This means that the 71 percent of Nigerians living below the poverty line, by international estimates or the 54 percent poor Nigerians, by a 2005 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) report, are not economically motivated to demonstrate sufficient and effective support for Nigerias democracy. All the same, the less privileged classes In Nigeria can offer considerable support for achieving sustainable democracy in Nigeria, if they can be overtly organized into pro-democratic groups. The current economic and political reform efforts may well push less economically empowered Nigerians from their economic adversities right up to the middle class bracket. Economically and socially disadvantaged Nigerians may well discover in the long-run how support for democracy can widen opportunities for political influence and business. SINCE independence in Nigeria in 1960, it is reasonable to infer that the country has failed to enthrone a durable and sustainable democracy in our democratic efforts in the last 15 years. The appointment of Professor Attahiru Jega as INEC Chairman, was an attempt to ensure flawless election but recent outcry against him on the issue of polling units is a litmus test BY all standards, the path to democratic development in the country will require joint political efforts between the ruling party, political parties and most importantly, the Nigerian electorate. Clearly, in a pluralistic society like Nigeria, democratic enthronement is possible, only If there is organizational unity at all levels of governance. The Nigerian elite, the electronic and the Print Media, have significant roles in the race to reach democratic maturity, by helping the people to understand the democratic process, guide them to appreciate what Nigerians want from the country’s democracy as well as outline the structure of democratic opportunities the Nigerian political system can support.
Media Newspapers And Their ‘Gargantuan’ Editors “EVEN in the common affairs of life, In love, friendship and marriage, How little security have we when we Trust our happiness in the hands of others!” William Hazlitt (17781830) On Living to Oneself THE recherché of professionalism entails the serendipitous admixture of myriad formats of knowledge ability. Hence, every profession has its esoteric jargons. The profession of journalism is not left out in this cauldron of normative standards. But the editor is critically crucial in the newspaper publication industry. Without slips of prolixity, a newspaper is an alphenstock designed to carry the reader up the mountain of information, entertainment and education etc. It is a daily or weekly publication consisting of folded sheets and containing news, features and advertisements etc. Indeed, a newspaper incarnates the matrix, nexus and praxis of any society. It is the heart of any nation and a good newspaper is a nation talking to itself. To enhance its functionality, mission statement and the core essence of its fundamental objectives, its publishers employ people or journalist with multidimensional ambience. The editor is one employee that stands out with singular diaphaneity. There are many types of editors in any newspaper setting. They are usually categorized and dichotomized along professional or areas of specialization. It is the duty of the Editor to prepare text for publication by checking, amending, altering and improving its accuracy and clarity. It is also the duty of the Editor to
By BOBSON GBINIJE
ensure that opinions expressed in the newspaper are in congruency and consistent with the Editorial policy, the religious, political, socio-economic and ideological mission statement of the publisher. Indeed, Editors, especially editors in government owned newspapers luxuriate in outright falsehoods, splendiferous theatrics, and propaganda hypes, laced with panegyric histrionics, which smacks of hitleric and Goebbelian antics. They can only mirror – out and not mirror –in, like parrots who repeats words after their masters without understanding them. There are editors and there are indeed editors. Some editors are coquettish with the government and political leaders and are trapped in conscience vendorization through pecunious inducements. There are also editors in private and government owned newspapers who tell it as it is notwithstanding whose ox is gored. It is the genre of conscience mortgaging and filthy lucre editors, who are slavishly tied to the apron strings of their paymasters that have rubbished the integrity of the profession. At best they are paid hirelings, government area-boys, surrogates and newspaper terrorists. It is this type of negative zeitgeist that propelled essayist Norman Mailer to assert that, “once a newspaper man touches a story, the facts are lost forever, even to the protagonist”. The empirical testability and presence of corruption in most newspaper newsrooms remains an inviolable truism. Since what is newsworthy is subject to the capricious whimsicality of the ‘gargantuan’ Editor, he as the
Alpha and the Omega decides which Reporter or Correspondent’s report should occupy the front page and whatever strategic space is in the newspaper. He could even, under the guise of ‘Newsroom Politics’ discountenance Reporters’ and Correspondents’ report if not bribed. He could also
oscillatory pull of the editors ideas. After all, the man who pays the piper dictates the tune. But we are saying furthermore that, notwithstanding all these truisms, the editor of a newspaper can still conduct and manage his submissions in such a manner as to mitigate the odium and the blanket of cerebral manacles
decide to publish articles, letters, opinion and reports of his cultic friends, relations and monetary expectations from government public relations agents for appointments or monetary reward. It must however be conceded that the mission statement of his newspaper as spelt out by his Publishers, Members of his Editorial Board and his Employers determine to a large extent the
in which he is cocooned. We are asserting here with unambiguous clarity, that the editor must be first and foremost conscience-andduty-bond to the truth and the general good. What will an editor gain when a society and its leadership are convoluted in the altar of despotism, illegal detention, election rigging, police brutality, assassinations, economic injustice, extra judicial killings, tribalism,
“It is the genre of conscience mortgaging and filthy lucre editors, who are slavishly tied to the apron strings of their paymasters that have rubbished the integrity of the profession. At best they are paid hirelings, government areaboys, surrogates and newspaper terrorists.”
bribery and corruption?. It is the bounden duty of the editor as part of the watchdog of society, Member of the forth Estate of the Realm and the conscience of society to condemn these evils in no uncertain terms. Our ‘gargantuan’ Editors must note the admonition of Marcus Cicero “Salus Populi est suprema lex” (the good of the people is the supreme law). They must note that criticism is an uncompromisable condition of democracy and freedom. Criticism is the hall mark of intellectual discourse, since it provokes argument and
“with public opinion on its side, nothing can fail with public against it, nothing can succeed.” The facts are sacred and comments free, but most newspaper editors have traditionally been content to state their own views and rely on the logic of their arguments, the force of direction and reasonableness of their advocacy to commend their views to the public. But it must go beyond this. Let the truth and altruism be their hallmarks. Finally, as our inchoate and embryonic democracy metamorphoses into adulthood, the editors of our
argument would, if well handled, facilitate the attainment of good resolutions. Again, it is a mere emotive rationalization to expect that because an idea appears so good by its sheer sound or its face value, it should be accepted wholesomely without questioning from our leaders, government agents, publishers and informed members of the public. The handling of public opinions by most editors must be revolutionized, as most opinions are either edited out of context or not published at all. Every Human Being in any democracy deserves to be heard notwithstanding his communication deficiency. It is in recognition of the importance of public opinion that, Abraham Lincoln said,
newspapers have a catalytic role to play. They must prove Sidney Haword wrong. He said “an editor is a person employed by a newspaper, whose business it is to separate the wheat from the chaff and to see that the chaff is published” we want to see more righteous indignation, critical and incisive commentaries, satyagrahilike analysis and avantgardism against the rot of our political leaders and the society from our editors. It is not life that matters but the courageous we put into it. Wither goeth our Newspaper Editors and the Nigerian Guild of Editors as 2015 elections approaches?. BOBSON GBINIJE, MANDATE AGAINST POVERTY (MAP), WARRI 08023250378
Ajuwaya THE NYSC is only one of the many Federal Government schemes that bring people together across the country. The one-year National Service was established by former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, via Decree 24 of 22 May 1973, shortly after the Nigerian Civil War to foster national integration. Twenty years after its establishment, the decree was repealed by Decree 51 of 16 June 1993 – now an Act of Parliament. Even when Nigerians are genuinely concerned about the security challenges facing the NYSC, many strongly believe that the NYSC should be sustained, but must continue to live up to the true meaning of its mission of mobilizing and grooming graduate youths for the promotion of national unity, sustainable development and self-reliance. The NYSC scheme no doubt in the past 41 years has faced a lot of challenges including inadequate orientation camp facilities, non fulfillment of statutory obligation by some critical stakeholders and security issues. With the security challenge in the country posing unprecedented threat to the continued existence of the National Youth Service Corps, the management of the corps must device means to grapple with the unpalatable drift. Since it was established almost 41 years ago, the desire of most young undergraduates has always been to be part of the mandatory National Youth Service. Apart from signaling the completion of the tertiary phase of their academic training, the service year also prepares the fresh graduates for future assignments. It fosters peaceful co-existence among the educated youth, most of who are assembled from different parts of the country and serve in locations other than their states of origin. But these long held ideals are lately being threatened by the insecurity in the country, which is being cited by critics as reason warranting the
discontinuation of the scheme. The NYSC was set up to promote unity but that has failed, so we need to look into other areas to improve the quality of education for our youths. The recent security challenges in the country have placed the lives of the corps members at severe risk and ignited a palpable apprehension among serving and prospective members. The management of the scheme has said it is not unaware of the security challenge but is taking necessary steps to tackle the problems. With the killing of corps members in some states still fresh in the minds of Nigerians, coupled with the escalating attacks by Islamic extremists, some corps members posted to the North had cause to storm the Yakubu Gowon House headquarters of the NYSC to announce their rejection of their posting. To them, being posted to the North was a death sentence. “We prefer to die here instead of being killed by Boko Haram in the North,” they cried out. Some of those posted to troubled states have been frantically visiting hospitals, looking for health certificates to present as excuse to be redeployed to safer states. The fact that corps members were “ill-equipped and ill-trained to defend themselves” from unprovoked attacks, just as the framers of the NYSC Act did not envisage such threat to the lives of innocent Nigerian youths, the situation has left the management of the NYSC with the task of ensuring a semblance of equitable distribution of corps members among the states of the federation on the one hand and, on the other, ensuring the personal safety of each member. Acknowledging the challenges the scheme now faces, the NYSC helmsman promised not to send corps members to volatile states unless governors of such states take responsibility for their personal safety. “Any of the volatile states that want corps members to be posted
NYSC And Security By LATEEFAT O. MOSHOOD
there must write with firm assurance of adequate security and would bear the consequences of any threat to the security of the corps members,” said by the management. The orientation course for NYSC, 2013 Batch ‘C’ members scheduled for 6 November nationwide was postponed in three states – Bayelsa, Borno and Yobe – in line with ensuring their safety. Consequently, corps members deployed to the three states were directed to undergo their orientation course from 28 November to 19 December. The corps members earlier posted to Borno were moved to Wanune in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State and those earlier posted to Yobe were moved to Magaji Dan Yamusa, in Keffi, Nasarawa State for their orientation course. The NYSC management has done well in ensuring security of corps members
inside and around the orientation camp. NYSC is a training scheme with the objective of training youths of Nigeria to imbibe discipline, high morality, selfreliance and patriotism and to promote national unity and integration. Those who share the sentiment of sustaining the scheme believe that no other programme in the country best meets objectives of the NYSC. In an editorial, The Tide held that, “…The reasons proffered in 1973 by the Yakubu Gowon administration for the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme are still very relevant in this country’s search for an enduring national unity. There is therefore no dispute on the desirability of the scheme and its benefits in our desire to maintain a strong, united and peaceful country despite recent assaults on its integrity. The NYSC management hinted of plans to accord
“Those who share the sentiment of sustaining the scheme believe that no other programme in the country best meets objectives of the NYSC. In an editorial, The Tide held that, “…The reasons proffered in 1973 by the Yakubu Gowon administration for the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme are still very relevant in this country’s search for an enduring national unity.”
Challenges topmost priority to response to the security challenges in the country as they affect the safety of corps members as well as restructuring of the Scheme to focus on functional entrepreneurial training for corps members. He disclosed his plan to establish a Distress Call Centre, DCC, to help ensure proper communication and response to distress situations involving corps members. It was learnt that the issue of security is being pursued with vigor as the scheme has increased the tempo of its liaison with security agencies and other stakeholders with the aim of enhancing the safety of corps members nationwide. Strategically also, the establishment of the DCC at the Directorate Headquarters in Abuja has been a major step by the Scheme toward addressing the recurring security challenge in the country. Inaugurated by the immediate past Minister of Youth Development, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, the DCC operates 24/7 and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that will ensure speedy and effective handling of distress situations involving corps members. Data of corps members, including their phone numbers as well as those of various security
agencies, traditional rulers, prominent personalities and other relevant stakeholders in all nooks and crannies of the country, are fed into the DCC server. It is programmed to recognize the service location of any corps member who calls, making it easier to contact security agencies and other stakeholders whose immediate intervention would be necessary. The scheme has also entered into collaboration with security agencies to enhance the security of corps members during the periods of Orientation Programme and Primary Assignment. In this nexus, the locations of corps members’ lodges across the federation have been made available to these agencies so as to facilitate quick reaction when they are in distress. What’s more, scrapping NYSC is as good as saying people should not settle outside their states of origin. Therefore, NYSC scheme should be retained and spirited efforts be made to ensure the security of members. While condemning the killings of some NYSC members who were victims of the violence in some parts of the country, it is the considered opinion that the NYSC scheme should not be abolished.
Child Health & You
Child Nutrition And Health By ORITSEWEYINMI BOYO
NOURISHING young child for optimal growth and development requires a daily balanced meal and snack structure from a variety of nutrient rich sources from the major food groups. Healthy eating has longterm benefits for your kids. When Kids consume the right balance of calories and nutrients for their growing bodies, they feel well, have more energy and definitely perform better in school. Some foods that are suitable for children’s growth and development are: Milk: Majority of children and teens do not meet the recommended intakes for calcium and vitamin D found in milk and dairy products. It is a known fact that children consume too much of high fat diets rather than milk. The nutrients in milk help to build strong bones and teeth, and as well contribute to hydration. Therefore, parents or care-givers should ensure that children are served a glass of milk at meal times instead of sweet beverages and drinks common in the open market. Vegetable and Fruits: Fruits and vegetables are very good sources of essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, C.K, folate, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and fiber. In view of this, children should be encouraged to have them as essential components of their daily meals. Vegetable and fruits can also be eaten as
desserts as these enhance proper digestion of foods. When these are taken regularly, constipation and colon diseases will be far from the children, in addition to their growth and development. Also vegetables should not be over-cooked as this destroys the essential vitamins found in them. Whole Grains: Whole grains like oats and whole wheat are efficient, sources of energy and Vitamin B. Food rich in fibers are beneficial because they are filling, and when combined with adequate fluid intake, they help to move food through the digestive system and may protect against constipation, cancer, diabetes and heart diseases. Select whole grain breeds e.g. cereals, rice, crackers and pasta more often. Lean Proteins: Lean proteins such as fish, eggs, beans and nuts are all excellent sources of protein, iron, zinc and B Vitamins. Researchers have shown that they aid muscles and brain development in children. As an alternative, choose protein foods since they are high in fibers and vitamins but low in saturated fat. Such food with high saturated fats includes lentils, legumes and tofu, and nut butter. These should be consumed in minimal quantity in a day. NUTRITION IN CHILDREN Children of all ages require nutritious food to
stay healthy. Healthy foods provide growing bodies with energy and essential nutrients that are vital to the production and development of bones and muscles. Apple fruit is a nutrition snack for children. WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF NUTRITIOUS FOODS FOR CHILDREN? There are a variety of
include; a reduced chance of developing osteoporosis, heart disease, cancer and cavities. Children who eat balanced nutritious diet are also less likely to be obese. CONSIDERATIONS The care-giver may begin a new approach to adequate nutrition for children by incorporating new healthy foods to the children’s diet. For example, instead of
nutritious and healthy foods that are beneficial to children. Whole grains, food in breads and cereals, are full beneficial fiber. Diary items, such as milk and cheese, provide large amounts of calcium needed for healthy bones and teeth. Nutritious diets are associated varieties of health benefits, which
serving a traditional rice with stew only; add salad or green vegetables or beans to rice in order to complement the carbohydrate content of the rice. Noodles should be garnished with fish or meat, vegetables and fruits. HEALTHY EATING TIPS FOR CHILDREN The following healthy
“Serve a variety of food each day. A combination of food from the following five food groups gives your child all the protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals he or she needs.”
eating tips will help our children have a healthy attitude toward eating. Food is your child’s source of energy. It keeps him or her growing strong, playing long, looking and feeling good. However, as all parents know, children can be picky when it comes to eating. Serve a variety of food each day. A combination of food from the following five food groups gives your child all the protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals he
certain foods. Avoid Mystery Foods: Encourage your children to help in the kitchen so that they can become familiar with different foods. They will be more likely to eat what they have helped to make. Make Meals Inviting and Enticing: Children appreciate attractive plates with variety colours. Help your children learn more about the foods they eat as well as understand the value of nutrition and balanced diet. In conclusion, set good
or she needs. Health experts agree that children younger than 2 years old should have no dietary restrictions. They should drink whole milk, since they need fat, cholesterol and high energy foods to help them grow. The following could be beneficial: servings of milk, yoghurt, servings of vegetables, servings of meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs, servings of fruits and servings of bread (especially wholegrain bread cereal). In general, daily intake should be 2,200 calories for children and teen-age girls and 2, 800 calories for teenage boys. Be Flexible: Avoid bribing or cajoling them to finish their plates or eat
example for them by making your owing sensible eating choices. Oritseweyinmi Boyo Higher Executive Officer Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, Benin City. ‘CHILD HEALTH AND YOU’, a Weekly Thursday Feature, is a collaborative initiative between the Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, and the Bendel Newspapers Company Limited (BNCL), Benin City. Comments on this page should be forwarded to The Editor, Bendel Newspapers Company Limited, Benin City or Director, Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State.
Media
Rescuing Nigeria From
THE CURRENT STATE OF NIGERIA THE wise King Solomon rightly posits that, “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan” (Proverb 29:2). It goes without saying that Nigerians are groaning day and night under the wicked rule they are being subjected to through a government that has abdicated its responsibility to the people, and in every way possible shows the wickedness of its reign. To say that Nigeria is currently at the cross roads – confused and not knowing what tomorrow portends, occasioned by the visionless and misguided leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the centre – is to say that appropriate words to describe the state of our nation under an uncaring and corrupt government can’t be found. Today, we have a government that cannot protect or guarantee our security as contained in the Constitution. Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka recently stated that Nigeria practises ‘Government of Impunity.’ And, according to Dr Peregrino Brimah, Nigeria occupies the first position in the ranking of nations with the worst governments in history. He pointed to a report from the World Bank in April which listed Nigeria among the five poorest countries in the world, with the largest number of people said to live on less than $1.25 a day. The others are India, China, Bangladesh and the Democratic Republic of Congo. President Goodluck Jonathan instead of addressing the issue on poverty as raised casually dismissed the report by saying: “Nigeria is not a poor country.” The rebasing of Nigeria’s economy, setting Nigeria as the largest economy in Africa, while revealing the true economic position of Africa’s largest nation, simultaneously re-certified Nigeria as the nation in the top position for worst leadership in social welfare and opportunities for the people. With 70 per cent of the nation’s population living under a-dollar-a-day; economically factored, Nigeria has the poorest people of any nation in the world today. With the rebased economy rating, Nigeria has unparalleled HDI (Human Development Index) to revenue and economy ratio of all nations. Poorest people, in the case of Nigeria, are derived from or correlate with poorest leadership. Is it not surprising that Nigeria, at the end of 2013, surpassed Mexico in kidnapping, recording the cruelest and second highest single abduction events in recent history? By the end of 2013 and the first quarter of 2014, Nigeria surpassed Syria, Libya, Iraq and Central Africa Republic (CAR) in deadly acts of terrorism and sectarian violence. The Nyanya bombing was ranked the fifth worst bombing of its kind in world history, post-1970, by the Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI). The Jos bombing, with over 200 reported dead in one attack, is second only to 9/11 and the disputed Syria chemical weapons attack. According to the report, “In combined values, with about 80,000 people killed in four years of largely unchecked Boko Haram violence, and with over 4,000 killed in the first quarter of 2014 alone, Nigeria has fast outpaced other nations of the world in deadly terror. Nigeria’s leadership in December 2013 secured the world’s top position rating in insecurity and failure to protect life, and discourage terror. Current rankings put Nigeria’s leadership second only to Hitler, after surpassing Saddam Hussein, in the current century, in terms of deliberate internal wastage of life.” A recent report on global life expectancy by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has rated Nigeria low in its report titled, “World Health Statistics 2014”, and published few months ago. According to that publication, life expectancy for both men and women is less than 55 years in nine sub-Saharan African countries, namely: Nigeria, Angola, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lesotho, Mozambique and Sierra Leone. The yearly report is the definitive source of information on the health of the world’s people. It contains data from 194 countries on a range of mortality, disease and health system indicators, including life expectancy, illnesses
and deaths from key diseases, health services and treatments; financial investment in health, as well as risk factors and behaviours that affect health. Speaking at an event in New York City, Mrs. Hillary Clinton, former U.S. Secretary of State, said the Nigerian government under President Goodluck Jonathan squandered its oil resources, and indirectly helps corruption to fester in the troubled country. Her words: “They have squandered their oil wealth; they have allowed corruption to fester, and now they are losing control of parts of their (own) territory because they would not make hard choices.” The former U.S. Secretary of State at the function organised by the International Crisis Group also noted: “The Nigerian government has failed to confront the threat, or to address the underlying challenges. Most of all, the government of Nigeria needs to get serious about protecting all of its citizens, and ensuring that every child has the right and opportunity to go to school.” That is not all, according to Sarah Seawall, U.S. Under Secretary of State, “Corruption prevents supplies as basic as bullets and transport vehicles from reaching the front lines of the struggle against Boko Haram.” Back home, former president, Gen Olusegun Obasanjo, in his assessment of Jonathan’s performance in office posited: “I don’t believe he has performed to the expectation of many Nigerians, not just me.” While U.S. Senator John McCain, in his view, submits that Nigerians don’t even have a government in the right sense: “We shouldn’t have waited for a practically non-existent government to give us the go-ahead before mounting a humanitarian effort to rescue those girls. Mr. Jonathan, who allegedly leads a corrupt government that has little credibility, initially played down the group’s threat and claimed security forces were in control. It wasn’t until Sunday, more than two weeks after the kidnappings, that he called a meeting of government officials.” (New York Times). To worsen the nation’s situation, President Jonathan has proven himself as incapable of running this country as his six years of administration have been most disastrous to the country. Our hospitals have become more of a consulting and mortuary centres; our federal roads are now death traps, after billions of naira had been budged and wasted and looted. We have an elected Government that hates democracy, but prefers ‘lootcracy’! Under this administration, the civil war years can be described as haven, as Nigerians are killed in droves today, without any solution at sight! Under this administration, Nigerians are so divided in both tribal and religious matters! Salaries of civil servants are not paid! Graduates are produced in millions yearly without any plan of employment for them. Instead of allowing these unfortunate graduates to live in peace, they are being defrauded by government agencies, while a good number has lost their lives in their search for nonexistent jobs! We now have a government of deceit, which major achievement is making our nation a laughing stock before the international community. A government that has succeeded in making us a mockery before the international community and African leaders; which major achievements are trumatising and transforming the nation into darkness as well as digitalising corruption to such a level where a whopping sum of $10 million can be said to have developed wings, and unaccounted for. The latest in the series of global ridicule to which the scandalprone Jonathan Administration has subjected Nigeria to is the recent impounding of a whopping sum of $9.3 million cash, against every norm of international transaction; allegedly for the purchase of arms by the President Jonathan government. The South Africa Government is currently investigating the shameful act, alleging that this is just a monetary laundering exercise. My good friend, Hon Nebukadineze Adiele, while commenting on this latest scandal stated: “Notwithstanding whatever excuses that Nigeria is making today, the transporting of $9.3 million into South Africa alone is a criminal act of money laundering. It
“To worsen the nation’s situation, President Jonathan has proven himself as incapable of running this country as his six years of administration have been most disastrous to the country. Our hospitals have become more of a consulting and mortuary centres; our federal roads are now death traps, after billions of naira had been budged and wasted and looted.”
By EZE CHUKWUEMEKA EZE
violated the various monetary policies of the entire world: it violated currency laws in Nigeria, South Africa, U.S. (it is its currency), and any nation whose airspace was passed as the money moved. That the money was for illegal arms purchase is another violation of the laws of the entire world. It violated almost every anti-arms trafficking laws of Nigeria, South Africa, and all the nation’s whose airspace was entered throughout the journey. It was also a violation of any international treaty entered into by Nigeria, with respect to arms control or illegal trafficking in arms. Through this transaction, Nigeria has disgraced itself and President Jonathan has (once more) brought his incompetence to the
a N N sc pl m by an
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President Goodluck Jonathan (right) in a chat with former Preside
international stage.” Capturing the present state of our nation under the present administration of President Jonathan aptly, Senator David Mark, most successful president of the upper chamber, affirmed that Nigeria is at war. His words: “The escalation of violence and the heinous crimes daily perpetrated by insurgents and terrorists, including the declaration of a Caliphate, has reached alarming proportions. Regrettably, the Boko Haram sect, these harbingers of death, have become more emboldened and daring, killing innocent Nigerians and destroying property at will. “From abductions, kidnappings and bombings, the situation has now degenerated to capturing and occupying some parts of Nigeria. In what is obviously intended to humiliate us as a sovereign nation and test our resolve, the terrorists have brazenly hoisted their flags to confirm their assault and affront on our collective will as a nation. The Boko Haram sect has in no unmistakable terms declared a total war on Nigeria and Nigerians. Their ideology is alien to our culture.” But sadly, after few days Senator Mark made this remarkable statement, he was among the PDP leadership that nominated President Jonathan, who has demonstrated incompetence as a hobby, to fly the PDP flag during the 2015 general election. So, who is deceiving who? Ironically, Nigeria is certainly more divided under this (democratically elected) administration than ever. And only Divine intervention can enable us survive the visionless and clueless leadership that now pervades our nation. Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon Aminu Tambuwal, last Thursday, observed that Nigeria was moving backwards, saying: “There was never a time the nation passed through the challenges it is currently facing, especially in terms of insecurity, corruption and other vices that have been on the increase in this country.” For leading Nigeria to its present comatose state, one cannot be far from the truth if one says that President Goodluck Jonathan is a colossal failure, in terms of his leadership style.
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Notwithstanding the foregoing woes backed by facts and figures, notorious group that calls itself Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN), which I prefer to call Tragic Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN), led by a notorious subsidy thief, and made up of cammers, rouges, vampires, vultures, scavengers, looters, lunderers – all seeking the continued ruination of Nigeria by the most corrupt and inept regime that has ever infested Nigeria, headed y clueless President Jonathan in order to continue the looting spree nd impunity associated with this administration. Correcting the Abnormality Caused By GEJ Over PDP’s Zoning The fact remains that the founding fathers of PDP in their wisdom, nacted in its constitution with a Gentleman’s Agreement, that ower should rotate between the predominantly Muslim North and
ent Olusegun Obasanjo
Christian South every two terms. General Olusegun Obasanjo, rom the southern part of Nigeria benefitted from this arrangement or eight years (1999 to 2007). The 2007 presidential election witnessed power shifting to the North, but after the death of President Umar Yar’Adua, a Northern Muslim, then Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan, a Southern Christian, took over as acting president. The former governor of Adamawa State, Murtala Nyako, said he was present at the meeting where Dr Jonathan, then acting governor of Bayelsa State, signed the agreement in 2003 that the North would produce the president between 2007 and 2011; and hat Jonathan, who was the deputy governor of Bayelsa State, igned as number 43. But sadly, President Jonathan went ahead to cuttle this policy designed by the founding fathers, by contesting he 2011, which he won. And after spending six years in office by 2015, he is still offering himself to contest the 2015 presidential lection, which if he wins, will make him to rule the country for en years; against the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that stipulates that nobody should rule the country xceeding eight years. Throwing light on the above, former Governor Abdullahi Adamu, one time National Secretary of PDP’s Board of Trustees BoT), in a recent media interview, stated that President Jonathan’s unning for the 2015 presidential election, is absolutely reneging on an agreement. According to him, at a meeting with party leaders at the Conference Room of the Office of the First Lady, Presidential Villa, the President agreed not to seek re-election, after conceding hat it was the turn of the North to produce the president on the platform of the ruling party, following the demise of former President Umaru Yar’Adua. According to him, at the meeting, which he attended in his capacity as the then secretary of the PDP’s BoT, virtually all the PDP governors then were present. The former governor recalled: “I was there. I was the secretary of the Board of Trustees of the party. The president himself was there. Some
state governors were there. Samuel Ogbemudia was there. Virtually all the PDP governors were there. Mr. Jonathan would be violating the agreement if he decides to enter the presidential contest, which holds in February next year.” Undemocratic adoption of President Jonathan for the 2015 elections by the PDP Leadership In the Guardian News Paper Published on July 29, 2011. President Jonathan, said and l quote “l won’t stay in office beyond 2015" Not minding the massive failure in all sectors of our economy, the immorality and the political implication on our nation of President Jonathan contesting the 2015 general elections; the various echelons of PDP Leadership have adopted him as the party’s sole-candidate for the 2015 presidential election. With this development, Nigerians have no option than to rally together and ensure that this evil calculation is not allowed to see the light of the day as extra day after May 29, 2015 with PDP Leadership at the centre will be hellish for all of us. The son of Nigeria’s First Republic Prime Minister, Dr. Abdul Jhalil Tafawa Balewa, captured the illegality of this plot thus, “What type of democracy do we have? Is the PDP a communist party? Where is the place of internal democracy? What Nigerians need and where they want the country to be in future are paramount issues. We need to put our ideas before the people and allow them to decide”. Implications of GEJ Contesting the 2015 Poll Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, former Archbishop of Lagos and first president of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other Nigerian leaders have spoken against his third term bid but Dr Umar Ardo, an Adamawa State PDP stakeholder, captured aptly the ineligibility of President Jonathan in the 2015 general election in an open letter to the National Chairman of PDP. He wrote: “Any person of average intellect who read the 1999 Constitution (as amended) along with four key judgments of the Supreme Court (INEC Vs Boni Haruna; Peter Obi Vs Chris Ngige; Ladoja Vs INEC, and INEC Vs 5 PDP Governors), would easily conclude that President Jonathan’s eligibility to contest for another four-year term in 2015, or at any other time thereafter, under the present constitution is impeded. This argument is premised on the fact that what constitutionally applies to the governor on the issue of eligibility or otherwise to contest elections is ipso facto applicable to the president. “In those judgments, the apex court had established the relationship between the governor and his deputy on the issue of succession (Boni Haruna); determined the holding of office in a term at four years (Peter Obi); affirmed that a governor can stay less but not more than four years in a term (Ladoja); and declared that tenure of the executive in office is a cumulative maximum period of eight years, and not a day longer (five PDP governors). By 29 May 2015, President Jonathan would be five years 23 days as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. If the president contests and wins the 2015 presidential elections or at any other time later, he will exceed the cumulative tenure of eight years maximum period as interpreted by the Supreme Court. Therefore such a contest will be unconstitutional.” Nothing else will be far from the truth than this truism, but NEC, BoT, and the leadership of PDP are well aware of all these facts. But in demonstration of their hatred for our nation, they are ready to wreck our Constitution, in their drive to achieve the misguided vision and mission of their party. Options, Way Out of PDP’s Evil Trap Are Nigerians actually tired of these evil cabals that have hijacked governance in the country? If yes is the answer; how to correct these anomalies associated with the poor leadership of our country by PDP lay in their hands. The fate of our country can only be ratified and put back on track if Nigerians rise and get PDP sacked
by 2015. If not, the woes ahead on all of us may not be described. We have done too much talking! The Next Question: Is APC Leadership Ready to Bail out Nigeria? All Progressives Congress (APC), to the understanding of some of us, was divinely formed to find solution to the abnormality that PDP has become and the quagmire state we have found ourselves as a nation. If this is the case, the challenge before APC, therefore, is enormous; and Nigerians will hold the leadership responsible should they for any reason fail to rescue our nation from the 16 years of ruination of our country by the inept leadership of PDP Government at the centre. The Obasanjo Solution I have read the statement of our statesman and leader, General Olusegun Obasanjo, in his recent reaction to the PDP nomination of President Jonathan as its sole candidate, entitled, “Obasanjo To President Jonathan On Second Term”. He said: “Your word must be your bond.” With respect to Gen Obasanjo, the fact remains that he created the monster in President Jonathan, and should find how to get this puzzle sorted out and save our nation from the doom that awaits her should this man succeed against all odds to be re-elected by 2015. APC Presidential Candidates One is happy with the no zoning policy adopted by the leadership of the party and with the presidential aspirations of Gen Muhammadu Buhari, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Mr. Sam Nda-Isaiah, Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, Adams Oshimhole of Edo State, Okoroacha of Imo State and Kano Governor Rabiu Kwakwanso, without post-primary crisis. Also, to add Tambuwal’s under the platform of APC; I am sure that any of them can send the present inept leadership of PDP to the cleaners. But the challenge is that should there be any crack in this team, the plans and plots of PDP will easily sail through. In this regard, I wish to appeal that a sort of college be formed among these aspirants; to include our governors and BoT members, to select a candidate from among them, so as to avoid any sort of crack. This will enable us forge a united, virile campaign that will send this enemies of Nigeria out from power. But should any of these candidates, for any reason, decide to break this accord, and PDP succeeds, then we all should wait to see the true President Jonathan. Conclusion Many of my friends have come against me asking why I should be postulating this position against a fellow Southerner, but I will take consolation from the stand of the great Irish political philosopher, statesman and the father of conservatism, Edmund Burke, who died in July 9, 1797. He may have had the messy state of our nation in mind when he stated, and I quote: “All that is needed for the forces of evil to succeed is for enough good men to remain silent.” The point that I have been in the centre of the struggle for a better Nigeria is not in doubt, prompting the penning down of this article. So it will be sad should anybody dare suggest that I was either influenced or motivated in writing this article for any other consideration, if not for patriotic reasons. The fact remains that should APC loose out in the 2015 general election, but God forbid, the true colour of President Goodluck Jonathan will be revealed to Nigerians. And the heat may be unbearable. The ball is now in your court to do that which is necessary to rescue Nigeria from the imminent doom that awaits her, should we fail in this mission. Let me; therefore, conclude this thesis by asking you all to listen to what the most outstanding African, both dead and living, Nelson Mandela, said about our present predicament: “It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then, people will appreciate your leadership.”
“The point that I have been in the centre of the struggle for a better Nigeria is not in doubt, prompting the penning down of this article. So it will be sad should anybody dare suggest that I was either influenced or motivated in writing this article for any other consideration, if not for patriotic reasons.”
VICE President Spiro T. Agnew had his finger on the button, and a choir was singing about peace on earth. A small audience of townspeople and tourists had assembled on the Ellipse, the tree- ringed park between the White House and the Washington Monument, for the lighting of the national Christmas tree, part of a pseudo-religious promotion Washington businessmen call the Pageant of Peace. On the other side of the world, Russia, China, and the United States had been maneuvering dangerously near the edge of world war. They had started choosing sides after the Indian army crossed into East Pakistan. The Chinese, who had been secretly sending supplies over the Himalayas to aid Pakistan, had troops poised to cross into India. The White House, which had put out misinformation about U.S. interests and intentions in the war, had dispatched a naval task force into the Bay of Bengal. Top Soviet officials, meanwhile, assured Indian leaders that Chinese intervention would be offset by a Russian attack on China and that any moves by the American task force would be opposed by the Russian fleet. In one bitter confrontation a Russian officer warned his Chinese counterpart of the power of Russia’s missiles. Using sophisticated electronic equipment as well as oldfashioned bribes, U.S. intelligence had gathered all these facts and had for warded them to Washington. Rather than being told of the dangers, Congress and the press were assured that America was following a policy of strict neutrality. president Nixon personally advised the top leaders of the Senate and House that his only interest was to bring peace. “We are neutral,” he said to them. “We are not taking sides.” Dr. Henry Kissinger, Nixon’s foreign policy adviser, insisted to reporters that rumors of a U.S. bias against India were “inaccurate.” In secret, however, both Nixon and Kissinger were issuing instructions that could hardly be called neutral. Even before the shooting started between India and Pakistan, the President summoned representatives of the Washington Special Action Group into his office and directed them to seek ways to aid Pakistan. This high-powered group— called WSAG inside the White House—is the crisismanagement team of the National Security Council. It is composed of representatives from the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the departments of State and Defense, and the Central Intelligence Agency. Nixon and Kissinger created WSAG in 1969, when an American reconnaissance plane was shot down over North Korea, and they continued to use it in subsequent emergencies. WSAG met frequently on the India-Pakistan crisis, and Kissinger, its chairman, constantly reminded the group of Nixon’s determination to “tilt” in Pakistan’s favor. He castigated diplomats who hesitated to violate the neutrality the United States had pro claimed and admonished WSAG’s members to follow the President’s wishes. Kissinger’s anti-India zeal troubled some subordinates.
“Some times Kissinger acted like a wild man,” a source on Kissinger’s staff told me. “His animus toward India seemed irrational.” My sources kept me informed as the developments became more ominous. Every President is entitled to secrecy in matters of national security, but this privilege does not allow him to deliberately deceive the American people. When I was persuaded that America was being misled, I asked my sources for the documentary evidence that would also convince the public. I arranged to meet my sources in crowded places where the secret papers, in brown Manila envelopes, could be passed quickly and inconspicuously. My sources turned over a dozen key documents. They were so explosive that I had to be sure they were not taken out of context. I pressed for more documentation, until I wound up with hundreds of supporting documents. With deepening concern, I studied the secret suggestions to send a U.S. task force into the combat zone. The sparks from a Russian— American naval confrontation in the Bay of Bengal, it seemed, could set off a nuclear powder keg. One of my sources alerted me, by a prearranged telephone signal, to meet me at a discount drug store two blocks from the White House. He was anxious as he pretended to be picking over Christmas items at a drugstore counter next to me. The President had approved the plan to send a powerful flotilla into the Bay of Bengal, he whispered tersely. I walked out of the drugstore and wrote my first column on the secret American involvement. To protect sources, I quoted cautiously from the secret documents at first. But the reaction inside the White House over these limited leaks was as angry as if I had quoted extensively from the documents. When Kissinger tried to dismiss my stories by saying he had been quoted out of context, I decided to provide the context. I still held back most of the papers, however, out of concern over legitimate security. I have now reviewed these unpublished papers for additional details that can now be revealed, to show how the Nixon Administration’s foreign policy was conceived and executed and how the public was misled. Briefly, this was the background. Nixon sought to correct an error of his early political career when he was a staunch friend of Chiang Kaishek and an implacable foe of Communist China. His antiCommunist clamoring had helped to prevent the reconciliation that Mao-Tse-tung and Chou En-lai had sought with the United States, and the resulting enmity between China and America was a factor in precipitating two costly U.S. wars on the Asian continent. A quarter of a century too late, Nixon decided the Chinese-American hostility had been a ghastly mistake, and he set out to restore good relations with Peking. This worthy quest led him into a close relationship with Pakistan’s military dictator, Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan, who helped to open the doors in Peking. A warm friendship developed between the two
Issues Ingredients Of Violence By JACK ANDERSON
leaders. Nixon was more than a little eager, too, to show common cause with China’s ally on the Indian subcontinent. His decision to aid Pakistan was a national tragedy, an abrogation of America’s historic commitment to champion democracy throughout the world. The anti-India policy, moreover, was pre meditated. As early as August 1971, four months before the out break of the war, Nixon told his foreign policy planners that he intended to back Yahya in his conflict with India. Catastrophe and war and death have always been commonplace in Bengal, a piece of earth abused by man and nature. For centuries Hindus and Moslems have fought over the rights to the rich alluvial
soil. Perhaps the Bengalis’ war for freedom was inevitable. The seventy-five million people of Bengal—a land about as large as Louisiana, and with a somewhat similar river delta—were estranged by distance as well as culture and language from the government in the new capital of Islamabad. Only a poet could have conceived of a political union between two such different bits of geography, separated in the middle by more than a thousand miles of the Indian subcontinent. The poet’s name was Mohammad lqbal. In 1930 he proposed a Moslem state independent of the domination of India’s Hindus. Even in the days when Great Britain’s colonial government siphoned off the wealth of India, the Hindu majority fared measurably better than the Moslem minority. The word “Pakistan” itself was an invention, an acronym for four of India’s Moslem regions— Punjab, Afghan, Kashmir and Sind. It was coined by Moslem students in England in 1935. It was 1947 before the name had a place. With Indian independence, the Moslems voted for a separate state, and East and West Pakistan became a single nation. In the migration that followed, Moslems and Hindus clashed and hundreds of thousands were killed. The Bengalis in East Pakistan—more
than half the nation’s population—got short shrift from the beginning. Ignored in the letters spelling their country’s name, they were also paid little heed in the processes of the new government. Pakistan’s economy was ruled by the “22 Families,” an oligarchy based in the west, who lived in the style of the British viceroys while most Pakistanis went hungry. Political power, too, was centered in the west, with the capital first in Karachi, then temporarily in Rawalpindi as a new capital was rising in Islamabad. While India was fashioning the world’s largest democracy, Pakistan fell prey to dictatorship. The Bengalis, however, did play a part in the life of the new
gave Dacca some appearance of a modern city, and the fishing port of Chittagong was transformed into a harbor for seagoing ships handling the jute trade, most of East Pakistan saw little progress. Only one of five East Pakistanis ever learned to read. For most, life was labor, and death came early. The rains that enriched the fields also supported an ideal environment for cholera, smallpox, tuberculosis, and malaria. When the rains became violent, the floods brought more death. In 1966 a cyclone hit Cox’s Bazar, a largely Buddhist town at East Pakistan’s southeastern tip, and killed ten thousand. The disaster was regarded almost as a routine occurrence. In November 1970, the counterclockwise winds of another cycle swirled over the delta at the mouth of the
nation. On 15 percent of the nation’s land they produced more than half its foreign currency. Most of Bengal is a flat, almost marshy plain, bedeviled by oppressive humidity, monsoon rains, and cyclones. From June to October the clouds that move in from the Bay of Bengal build up into towering masses when they encounter the mountains on the east. With tiresome regularity the clouds give vent to pelting rains. For nearly half the year much of Bengal is under water. It is a fertile place. The human birth rate is astonishing, and young and old work in the fields to bring forth other life. Eighty percent of the world’s jute, a golden-flowered plant that provides the fiber for burlap and rope, is grown in Bengal. Even after twenty- four years of independence, Pakistan had managed to do little toward constructing an industry to process the jute, but the export of the fiber and other Bengal products brought Pakistan needed cash. Little of the money found its way back into the Bengal economy. While the government built its gleaming new capital at Islamabad, and the 22 Families aped the British with their fancy prep schools, glittering parties, and exclusive clubs, life in East Pakistan was harsh and oppressive. Although commerce
Ganges River, killing more than two hundred and fifty thousand people. The survivors were also threatened. The rice crop, almost ready for harvest, had been ruined. Even in a land inured to catastrophe, famine was a horror beyond endurance. Grief turned to anger, and anger to action. As peasants dug the corpses from the slime, they found their government only vaguely interested in helping them. In Islamabad, Yahya Khan, who ruled as President by virtue of the army’s power, said there was not enough money in the nation’s treasury to feed the Bengalis and help them rebuild. There were sufficient funds, however, for the government to continue construction of the palatial new buildings in the beautiful green valley of Islamabad. In December 1970 Pakistanis went to the polls in the first free election for the National Assembly in the nation’s history. With remarkable unanimity, the Bengalis cast their ballots for the Awami League, headed by the charismatic Sheikh Mujibur Rah man. Mujib’s party won all but two of East Pakistan’s 169 seats, and gained control of the new national parliament. In West Pakistan, the leaders of the 22 Families were stunned. Their strangle hold on the nation was threatened for the first time
by the new reform party, suddenly the largest of the nation’s twenty political parties. Their enormous wealth threatened, the oligarchs huddled with Yahya, and in March 1971 he announced the postponement of parliament’s opening. The Bengalis are a gentle but emotional people. Their riots had been a bane to the British and an annoyance to the Pakistanis. So again the angry Bengalis took to the streets, demanding the seating of a government that would, at last, be responsive. While the Bengalis have always been peasants, the taller, lighter- skinned Punjabis of the west were warriors for the British East India Company and, liter, the British army. With independence, they assumed control of the Pakistani army. On March 25, Punjab troops quickly and ruthlessly put down the uprising, shooting wildly, shelling homes, attacking student dormitories. On orders from Islamabad, they arrested Mujibur Rahman and shipped him to a prison in West Pakistan. Other Awami League members were arrested or killed. The repression changed nothing. Young Bengalis armed them selves and fought back. The army then began a rampage of genocide seldom equaled in history. A million, perhaps two million no one will ever know for sure—Bengalis were killed. Tens of thousands, possibly hundreds of thousands, of women and young girls were raped. Arson and pillage became the army’s way of life. Defenseless refugees swarmed into India. “The United States did not support or condone this military action,” President Nixon said in his State of the World report to Congress on February 9, 1972. That is only partially true. The fact is that the United States did nothing to halt it, and dealt sternly. with Foreign Service officers who sought to bring attention to the conditions in Bengal. When the slaughter of the Bengalis began, Archer K. Blood, then U.S. consul general in Dacca, the capital of East Pakistan, sent details to U.S. Ambassador Joseph Farland in lslamabad and to the State Department in Washington. lie also forwarded a petition signed by most of his subordinates on the consulate staff, protesting America’s apparent indifference. Some members of the Dacca mission who had signed the petition were recalled. Wives of American diplomats, evacuated from Dacca to Islamabad as the terror increased, were told they only imagined the horrors they had witnessed and were offered tranquilizers. Blood was summoned to Washington in June 1971, but planned to return to Dacca for the remaining eighteen months of his tour of duty. At the State Department he was told he was an alarmist, and was given a desk in the personnel office. Despite his humiliation, he was admired by many other Foreign Service officers who were aware of his courage and honesty in the face of top-level deception.
or (a2 - 2b)(a + 2b) - c(a + 2b) INTRODUCTION: With the common factor written In the previous lectures we discussed the factorisation of first, we get: a2 - 4b2 - ac - 2bc monomials, perfect squares, = (a + 2b)[(a - 2b)-c] difference of two squares as well as quadratic expressions. In this edition or (a + 2b)(a - 2b - c)Ans
A].
Mathematics With Stanley Osobase 08023454887 Osobase2001@yahoo.co.uk
Factorising Expressions Containing x(a - b ) + y(a - b ) on EBS TV (Thursday 4pm live) we Four Terms With the common factor written shall be discussing expressions with 2
four and five terms. Example 4 To factorise an expression with or Factorise completely containing four terms, group the (4abx - 2axy) - (12b2x + 6bxy). terms in pairs so that each pair has a (UME, 2003) common factor. The other factor can Solution: be found by division. Grouping in pairs, we have: B]. APPLICATION EXAMPLES (4abx - 2axy) - (12b2x - 6bxy) With the common factor written first, we get: Example 1 Factorise ax + ay - bx - by. (2b - 7)(2ax - 6bx) Solution in pairs, we get: (2b - y)(a - 3b)2x Ans (ax + ay) - (bx + by) = a (x + y) - b(x + y) Example 5 With common factor written Factorise completely first, we have, we have: ac - 2bc - a2 = 4b2 (UME, 2004) ax + ay - bx - by Solution: = (x + y)(a - b)Ans Grouping in pairs, we have: c(a - 2b) - (a2 - 4b2) Example 2 or c(a - 2b) - (a2 - 22b2) Factorise m3 - 2m2 - m + 2 Applying difference of two squares, (UME) we get: c(a - 2b) - [(a - 2b)(a + 2b)] Solution: With the common factor written Grouping in pairs, we have: first, we get: 3 2 (m - 2m ) - (m - 2) ac - 2bc - a2 + 4b2 = m2(m - 2) - (m - 2) = (a - 2b)[c - (a + 2b)] With the common factor written or (a - 2b)(c - a -2b)Ans first, we get: M3 - 2m2 - m + 2 = (m - 2)(m2 - 1) Example 6 or (m - 2)(m - 1) (m + 1)Ans Factorise a2x - b2y - b2x + a2y (UME). Example 3 Solution: factorise a2 - 4b2 - ac - 2bc Rearranging, we have Solution: a2x - b2x + a2y - b2y Grouping in pairs, we have: Grouping in pairs, we have: (a2 - 4b2 - (ac + 2bc)
2
2
2
first, we get: (a2 - b2)(x + y) or a2x - b2y - b2x + a2y =(a - b)(a + b)(x + y)Ans
Example 7 Factorise a2 - b2 + 3a + 3b Solution: Grouping in pairs, we have: (a2 - b2) + (3a + 3b) Applying diffence of two squares, we have: a2 - b2 + 3a + 3b = (a + b)[(a - b)] or (a + b)(a - b + 3)Ans Example 8 Factorise (a + b)(a + y) - 2x - 2y Solution: (a + b)(c + y) - 2(x + y) With the common factor written first, we have: (x + y)[a + b - 2]Ans Example 9 Factorise m2 - n2 - 4m + 4 Solution: By Observation, we have the trininomial m2 - 4m + 4. So that m2 n2 - 4m + 4 = (m2 - 4m + 4) - n2 By difference, of two squares, we get: [(m - 2) - n][cm - 2) + n] or (m - 2 - n)(m - 2 + n)Ans Until next week, stay blessed solving Maths! Remember To watch EBS TV (live) at 4pm, Thursday
Battery Care
YOUR battery needs special attention and care at a period like this when we have occasional downpour as the rate of change drops to the drop in atmospheric temperature. Dirty batteries are likely to have electrolyte collected on the surface causing leakage of electrical current to the earth, so that the battery will discharge. Electrolyte on
car should be used so as to ensure the correct threading. The tip of the plug should lie flush with the wall of the combustion chamber. Where it protrudes or fail to chamber opening, serious problem could result. Different plug have
to install new piston rings. An elementary precaution, however, is not to pour too much oil into the stump, the deep stick should be inspected daily for oil level in the stump. Occasionally, the distributor leads don’t carry electrical current effectively, and I’ve seen
However, the air conditioning is a broad, all encompassing term and includes the capability to provide warm as well as cool air, although, warmth has little or no benefit to us here because of our weather. Obviously, air conditioning systems
the surface of the battery can also cause the terminal and connectors to corrode, which will stop the battery from working efficiently. You are therefore to check the acid level periodically at least once in two weeks or after every 800 kilometres. If the level drops below plates, top up with clean water. Never add acid. Do not overfill cells normal level is 6-10mm above the separator. An overfilled battery can cause acid overflow through the vent plugs when the battery is charged and acid can cause damages to the battery compartment and other metal parts in the vehicle. GOOD AND BAD PLUGS The correct plug of the
different heat range. Which result in optimum operating temperature. To take care of this, Use the plug recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Often, plugs get thrown away when they are still good. The car’s electrical system might be the real culprit when idling is sluggish or power output falls drastically. Take a close look at the alternator and condenser, especially alternator. Were it works well, plug should spark properly from at least 10,000 kilometers. When the plug end get fouled by oil suspect worn piston rings or worn cylinder wall. If the fouling is bad enough, the electrode will be damaged irretrievable. The only real solution is
where all the leads of a car where condemned outright. In the past, a plug spanner was part of the tool kit of any serious motorist. It is good idea to buy one. But keep it proper or mechanics would make away with it. UNDERSTANDING YOUR CAR A/C To many people the term air conditioning connotes well-circulated blasts of cool, dehumidified air to take the sting out of our hot and humid climate.
(sometime referred to as climate control system) have great benefits automotive applications helping to cool and dehumidify the passenger cabin, as well as sapping it of the majority of air borne dust particles and odours. Simply put, air conditioning in an environmental control of a car’s passenger cabin, where temperature, humidity and circulation are maintained as the
Motoring With OSAGIE AIFUWA 08023412452
desired level with the added benefits of cleanliness as well. Generally the best care you can give to your cars
air conditioning system to have it regularly serviced by qualified specialist, where by the system is thoroughly cleaned, all hoses and pipes are checked for leaks and refrigerant gas topped up. This is normally done periodically and prevent the discomfort of’ having the system break down when it is most needed. In using the system, one should always remember to turn off when the
engine is stopped. Starting the car with the system engaged not only places added strain on the compressor clutch and associated drive belts but also the battery of the car as well. Whenever the car has been left in open for prolong periods, the amount of heat soak built up in the interior is considerable. in such situation, it is advisable to drive with the Window down for the first few minutes. This allows warm air to escape and achieve a more rapid cool down time. An associated benefit is also a small saving in fuel used, since the system will not be ‘working’ so hard to do the cooling. Like almost everything else, letting the system be dormant and unused for prolong period does it no favours. One should run the system for at least fifteen minutes twice a week in other to keep all seals hearing and components in working order. Always ensure that the refrigerant gas is topped up, as running the system on empty can damage the components. By observing these few simple tips. your ‘vehicle air conditioning should give many years of faithful service and more years of comfortable divining
“Like almost everything else, letting the system be dormant and unused for prolong period does it no favours. One should run the system for at least fifteen minutes twice a week in other to keep all seals hearing and components in working order.”
Viewpoint
President Goodluck Jonathan
President Jacob Zuma of South Africa.
CAN President’s Link With Jet Loaded With $9.3m WHEN news filtered around recently that a Nigerian private jet was caught in Johannesburg South Africa (US registration number N808HG) with $9.3million, and the private jet was said to belong to Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the Head Pastor and owner of Word of Life Bible Church, the first thoughts that came to our minds was, how, and why should a notable figure that holds a revered and somewhat sacred position in the Christendom, be linked to such ‘dirty’ controversy. What is even more troubling and disturbing was the fact that the said $9.3m in the private jet was aimed at buying arms for the Nigerian security forces. Whole lot of things are absolutely wrong with this picture. According to reports, the said private jet was seized by South African authorities with a stack of $9.3 million in cash meant for arms purchase, which was said to belong to the head of the Nigerian Christian community. The Nigerian
By ZIK GBEMRE JP
aviation ministry was also said to have confirmed this, but that Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, the CAN president, had however leased the private jet to another party. Pastor Oritsejafor’s church was also reported to have confirmed the ownership of the private jet in a separate statement. The church said the pastor has a “residual interest” in Eagle Air, a company that manages the aircraft. “On behalf of Pastor Oritsejafor, we can confirm that although he holds an interest in Eagle Air, the aircraft in question is not operated by Pastor Oritsejafor,” the statement by The Word of Life Bible Church said. The aircraft was leased to, and is operated by Green Coast Produce Limited since August 2, 2014, the statement added. In an earlier statement, Eagle Air Company admitted ownership of the jet held in South Africa for conveying $9.3 million cash for alleged arms deal. Two Nigerians and an Israeli were caught
with the money allegedly meant for buying and supplying weapons to the Nigeria intelligence services. City Press, a South Africa-based newspaper had reported that the trio, who are already facing investigations, landed at Lanseria International Airport, Johannesburg on September 5, 2014 in the jet from Abuja with the money loaded in three suitcases. A South African source disclosed that Pastor Oritsejafor’s private jet was released after top Nigerian officials intervened, claiming that the weapons to be purchased with the stash of currency had the official blessing of the Nigerian government. The
source revealed that the private jet arrived loaded with two plastic suitcases and two pieces of hand luggage with combination locks only known to the Israeli contractor, according to City Press. Another report also noted that Nigerian Military sources said that the two Nigerians arrested by South African police for trying to bring $9.3 million into their country were on legitimate business. The sources said the transaction which was legal was also quite regular in international business, adding that the two were in South Africa to buy weapons needed in the face of security challenges in Nigeria. The security sources dismissed any
insinuations of criminality or illegality about the matter, saying it was not uncommon in intelligence communities for countries to carry cash across borders for the purpose of purchasing ammunition needed during an emergency. The sources noted that since the country had been facing security challenges, it had ordered weapons from the Western block which were being delayed over what they termed “compliance issue.” The military source claimed that in order to speed up the process, the country decided to buy the much- needed weapons from South Africa, adding that it was not unusual for countries to buy weapons through such transactions. Admitting that the arrest was an embarrassment to Nigeria, one of the sources, however, noted that the two countries were meeting to resolve the
matter which he termed “a protocol problem.” According to him, he also claimed that western nations also do the same thing in a situation where they are facing serious security challenges, and that it is a common thing in the international community for such a transaction to take place. However, despite all the explanations given, both from the Nigerian Government and Security authorities and those representing the CAN President, the crux of the matter is that there is something fishy with the whole arms deal arrangement and its link to the CAN President. The whole situation raises a whole lot of questions begging for answers; questions that makes the CAN President blameless; questions that makes Continues on Pg 22
“Another report also noted that Nigerian Military sources said that the two Nigerians arrested by South African police for trying to bring $9.3 million into their country were on legitimate business.”
View Point Continued from Pg 21
whatever explanations given ‘unbelievable’ and ‘unacceptable’. Some of these questions, which were raised by Activist lawyer, Mr Festus Keyamo, clearly depicts what is in our mind to ask. Describing the official explanations given above as ludicrous, laughable and untenable, Keyamo said such story was best told to the marines. He wondered: “is it really faster and safer to do an international transaction of such magnitude by ferrying cash across the continent or by a simple wire transfer that can go through in a matter of few minutes or few hours? If, indeed, the matter involves security issues like the purchase of arms by a foreign government like Nigeria, why was the South African Government not brought into the picture before hand? How could the South African Government be sure that the arms were purchased legitimately by the Nigerian government and not by insurgents if they were not officially informed beforehand? If indeed the manufacturer(s) of such equipment was/were expecting such large amount by cash, why did they not make adequate arrangements with the authorities in South Africa to declare and clear the cash on arrival? “Why was money belonging to the Federal Government of Nigeria and meant for purchase of equipment for the Federal Government Security Operatives moved by a private jet and by private individuals and why were they not accompanied by the officials of the Department of State Services or the office of the National Security Adviser in official capacities? Why would a government that is at the peak of promoting the cashless policy in our economy, be the chief breaker of that policy by moving such a large amount by cash? If, indeed, it was a legitimate transaction of the Federal Government, why were the officials of our
embassy in South Africa not on hand to make the entry easier and smoother? Since the South African Government has said the amount is above the limit of cash allowed into that country, why would a whole government like Nigeria not know the simple immigration laws of a sister and friendly country before allowing that type of amount of cash to be taken to that country? “Why would the Nigerian government seek to smuggle cash into a country without disclosure if it was, indeed, for a legitimate transaction? From where did the Federal Government source that amount in Nigeria? Was it from the Central Bank of Nigeria or from the black market? Nigerians demand answers to this with proof. Is it just a wicked coincidence that it is the aircraft belonging to a personal friend ally of the president in the person of Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor (my big brother in Warri), that was used to smuggle the cash? We also wish to add, since when has the CAN President become so friendly with the Nigerian Government that its private jet was used for such arms transaction? Considering the fact that there are many other jets owned by notable commercial airlines like Arik Air, Aero Contractors etc, how come it was the private jet of Pastor Oritsejafor that was the government’s pick? Was the said private jet the same one that was presented to Pastor Oritsejafor in 2012 as ‘gift’ by the church members during the 40th anniversary celebration of Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor as a Minister of God? If it is, how come the said private jet, which we believe was registered for private use, is now being used for business; in the purchase of arms for the Nigerian Government? It would be recalled that Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, CAN President and Pastor, founder and owner of Word of Life Bible Church (that has only one church building in Warri, Delta State, and other Teaching Centres/Fellowship Centres
... Jet Loaded With $9.3m
across the country), joined the band-wagon of Nigerian Pastors who own private jets when in 2012, a private jet was presented to Pastor Oritsejafor as a ‘gift’ by the church members. Naturally, one cannot play dump to the irony of Pastors-who are ministers of God’s wordnow cruising in Private jets,
poverty, characterized by an intimidating unemployment rate and branded as a failed state, yet those who should be the public conscience, as the church, openly flaunt their affluence. This is obviously a deification of arrogance and the height of insensitivities that the “custodians of public
he became CAN President. The holder of such revered and respected office in Nigeria’s Christendom is not supposed to be having such ‘unexplained’ closeness with the sensitive activities of the government of the day. Past leaders of CAN and the way they handled that office during
in this light that we believe, all the above questions posed should be given satisfactory answers to by those concerned. Nigerians deserve to know who to be trusted and not to be trusted amongst relevant authorities. Issues of such magnitude and sensitivity should not be swept under
their time, are evidence of this fact. Many Nigerians are already alleging that the current Federal Government is using the CAN President as an “easy and unsuspecting” ally to launder money in preparation for the 2015 general elections. Whatever the case may be, the crux of the matter is that the above described situation with the private jet and the arms deal is not a good image of the Christian Association of Nigeria and the country in general. It is often said that there is no smoke without fire, and with the subject case, a whole lot of issues really do not make sense. Evidently, the government’s ‘insincerity’ smells all around the whole issue. It is
the carpet and forgotten easily like most others in the past. The evident level of impunity, reckless abandon and abuse of the rule of law should not be ‘encouraged’ by the present administration of President Goodluck Jonathan. Enough of the lies and deceit! Nigerians are not blind or fools not to understand and see the “so many maneuvers” in the polity by the government and its relevant authorities in their bid to have their selfish ways. There is need for more accountability and transparency for the Government to gain and sustain ‘pubic trust’ in everything it does. Let the right thing be done, this we urge.
Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, CAN President.
where as 95% percent of their congregation cannot comfortably afford three square meals a day, not to talk of owning a car or a motorcycle. The proponents see no contraction that in a country that ranks among the poorest in the world, sacked by unbeatable
morality” should brazenly turn religion into a mercantile venture. Back to the issue at hand, we find it disturbing that the CAN President has practically made himself a ‘public spectacle’ with his obvious ‘romance’ with the Nigerian Government since
“Why would the Nigerian government seek to smuggle cash into a country without disclosure if it was, indeed, for a legitimate transaction? From where did the Federal Government source that amount in Nigeria?”
Religion
With REV. DR. A. A. OPARA
Fire On The Mountain (1)
WHEN I was a boy I used to enjoy a type of childhood game called “fire on the mountain”. We had a group of us form a circle, each person had a play mate and, the umpire would cry aloud; fire on the mountain” then we would chorus together “run, run, and we continued until he would cry”, “fire is out clung back to our play mate, the last to do so was the loser! It was an exciting game of children, making childish remarks, but which today in my adult life 1 consider significant to write a book upon entitled: “Fire on the’ Mountain”. What is the fire and where is the mountain and who can put out the fire? My childhood game had a symbolic fire which none of us saw; we had an imaginary mountain by the circle formed and the umpire verbally quenched the fire with a loud shout. The fire that I am writing about in this book is not a symbolic fire, nor the mountain a symbolic one nor is there an umpire that quenches the fire excepting the individual so concerned. The fire I am talking about here is the fire of God or the fire óf the Holy spirit. John the Baptist said to the Jews “I baptize you with water for repentànce, but he who is coming after. he will baptize you ‘with the Holy Spirit and with fire” Matt, 3:12, Luke. 3:16. “our God is a consuming fire” Heb l2:29. This is the fire of that is referred to here and the mountain is not the physical mountain that Gods fire wil1 consume. Jesus metaphorically used mountain to refer to our problems that we think are in insurmountable. He said “if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, move from here to there, and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you” Matt 17:20. By implication when there is fire on the mountain then “every mountain and hill shall be brought low Luke 3:4 This means when the power of the Holy Spirit moves over
your problem it will get a solution. But we don’t know how to kindle the fire to burn our mountain. We desire the fire but we don’t know how to kindle it, so the mountain grows and we get discouraged. The focus of this book is to teach you how to kindle the fire of God to consume your mountain; so that you can live a successful Christian life. Jesus said “1 come that they may have life and have it abundantly” John 10:10. Enjoy a life of abundance in Christ by knowing how to kindle the fire of God. Elijah called fire from Heaven through prayers to solve the problem of true and false worship imminent in his time. (I kings 18:2021). He climbed up a physical mountain which was mount Carmel with a burden in his heart, this “heavy burden” was his own “mountain” it was the burden of true and false worship and the latter was gaining ground thus challenging the authority of Elijah, God’s prophet. He said to the people. “How long will you go limping with two different opinions? If the lord is God follow him; but if Baal, then follow him 1 Kings 18:20 and God consumed Elijah’s Sacrifice by fire. Elijah had made a trench upon which he placed the altar of sacrifice and asked water to be poured on the altar, and burnt offering three times that “the water ran round about the altar, and filled the trench” (I Kings 18:35). Yet inspite of the heavy water or flood the fire of “the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked .up the water that was in the trench” I Kings 18:39. Note that Gods fire can be a physical and very visible one for “all the people saw it, and the fell on their faces” (I Kings 18:39). But unlike the literal combustible fire water cannot quench the fire of God and nothing can stop the fire except the fire has accomplished the purpose for which God sent it; in
other words only God himself can stop his own fire. This is the implication of the water that Elijah asked to be poured several times on his altar of sacrifice which God’s fire still consumed. You are about to be exposed to Gods mystery of fire. How to kindle the fire of God to burn your mountain. CHAPTER TWO GOD’S FIRE; DRAMATIC EVENTS EVERY one in the Bible who had experienced God’s literal fire had a dramatic experience in life. The fire
dramatic events in your life for divine attestation and transformation. I recall here the experience of Manoah and the wife who had been childless for year and behold an angel materialized to visit both of them to give them a revelation. Mind you until the fire of God descended they had thought the angel was simply a “man of God” not an angel, “and Manoah arose and went after his wife and came to the man, and said unto him, art thou the man that spakest unto the woman?
that Elijah called from heaven which all the people saw on mount Carmel was a dramatic event to the onlookers. The Bible says on seeing the fire from heaven “they fell on their faces... and said; the Lord, he is the God” 2kings 18:39. What followed next? More dramatic events: all the Baal Prophets killed, true worship restored, the Land that had been dry without rain for three years witnessed a down pour “and the hand of the Lord was on Elijah” 2Kings 18:1,40:46. When you witness the fire of God, you are sure to experience
And he said, I am” “Jud. 13:11 But as the couple prepared a burnt offering for the Lord “and the angel did wondrously”, (Jud. 13: 19) and the fire of God descended on the offering and “the flame went up toward heaven from the altar and angel of the Lord ascended in the flame of the altar” Jud. 18:20. Manoah and the wife were terrified that Manoah said to the wife “we shall surely die because we have seen God Jud, 13:22. But no they were not going to die but experienced a dramatic event in their life the birth of a superman,
“And the woman bore a son and called his name Samson... and the Lord blessed him” Jud 13 24. What about Elisha? He witnessed the fire of God also a his master of about six years Elijah departed from him That event had a dramatic effect on his life. There at the Jordan he stood, where a whirl wind took up his master into heaven.”
Samson. “And the woman bore a son and called his name Samson... and the Lord blessed him” Jud 13 24. What about Elisha? He witnessed the fire of God also a his master of about six years Elijah departed from him That event had a dramatic effect on his life. There at the Jordan he stood, where a whirl wind took up his master into heaven. “And it came to pass as they still went on, and talked, that behold, there appeared a chariot of fire and horses of
fire and parted then both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirl wind into heaven” 2Kings 2: 1 Elisha received the mantle of Elijah. This event turned Elisha into one of the greatest prophets of the old testament. Moses saw the fire of God at mount Horeb. He was a fugitive and had turned to be the shephard of Jethro’s flock who was the priest of midian when God appeared unto him in the midst of fire’ (Ex, 3: 1) “now Moses kept the flock of Jethro... and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb. And the Angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush, the bush burned with fire and the bush was not consumed” Ex. 3:1-2. Out of the midst of fire God spoke to Moses calling him to lead his people out of Egypt, and made himself known to Moses as that great “1 AM”. He said “ I AM THAT I AM” Ex. 3:14. Moses was
commissioned in the midst of divine fire; how great that commission was that made Moses the greatest prophet of the old testament period, for the Bible says Moses and there rose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses whom the lord knew face to face” Deut. 34:10. What a testimony of a man commissioned in the midst of divine fire: hence, I make bold to say every one in the
scripture who witnessed the fire of God witnessed a dramatic event into full stature in God. It was the same fire of God which Saul turned Paul saw in the form of lightning on his way to. Damascus that brought a dramatic turn around in his life., “And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven?’ Acts 9:3. Indeed Paul received his call and commission in the midst of God’s fire. Every fire commission is one of great anointing; no wonder the spirit of God was upon the ministry of Paul until the end of his life! The fire commission dramatically changed the life of Paul and turned him to be among the pillars of the first century church. (Gal. 2:9) You need the fire of the Holy Spirit for a dramatic event in your life! When the spark comes on you it sets your mountain crumbling.
International Features “WE serve the people!”— this is one of the slogans the Workers’ Party of Korea holds up. The WPK regards it as an invariable principle to put the demands and interests of the people above all else and makes everything it does conform to them. After the liberation of Korea from the military occupation of Japan (August 15, 1945), the Party carried out an antiimperialist, anti-feudal democratic revolution, during which it enforced the agrarian reform to realize the centuries-old desire of the peasants to have their own land, nationalized major industries to make the workers the masters of factories and enacted the law of sex equality to give the women equal rights with men. It ensured that a dangerous electric arc furnace was blasted off shortly after the country’s liberation when its economic situation was so difficult that every single gramme of iron and steel
was counted and the excellent Pyongyang Maternity Hospital was built for women and babies. The WPK takes full responsibility of the life of the people. It is because the Party has undertaken everything in the interests of the people and on the principle of faithfully serving them that it has a firm grip of public sentiments and enjoys the absolute support of all the people. Over the past several decades the Party has pursued people-oriented policies—enforcing universal free compulsory education and free medical care and building dwelling houses at the state’s expense and supplying them to the people free of charge. The DPRK abolished tax system as early as 40 years ago is a fact next to unbelievable. All this is unconceivable apart from the staunch outlook on people of the leaders of the Party. As it was led by President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il who devoted all
‘We Serve The People!’ their lives viewing “The people are my God” as their motto, the Party has been able to be called a mother party by the people. Once a foreigner asked the President how the DPRK made up for the loss caused by its supply of clothes to all the students and children across the country free of charge. He replied that the loss incurred in doing things for the people is by no means loss and that the greater such loss the better. When he received a report that a large deposit of gold had been found in the area around Mt. Myohyang, a noted scenic spot, he did not approve its mining, saying that it might mar the beautiful scenery of the mountain and the cultural resort for the people. Chairman Kim Jong Il, too, often stressed that the country should pursue a losing business if it was for the good of the people and that calculation should not
be allowed to get in the way of the benefits to be given to the people. When he visited the Samsu Power Station that was under construction in the northern part of the country, he took measures to build houses first for the people living in the area to be inundated prior to the construction of the power station. “We serve the people!” is a slogan he set forth. As the President and the Chairman did, Kim Jong Un, First Secretary of the WPK, also devotes his all to the good of the people. All his thinking and activities are geared to ensuring that the Korean people, who have remained faithful to the WPK in the face of all manner of difficulties, do not have to tighten their belts again but enjoy all benefits of socialism. Once, after reading a report submitted to him, he wrote on it “Let us serve the people!” What the people prefer; priority should be given to the
convenience of the people in doing things; be kind to the people; make this place frequented by many people; nothing should be spared for the people; and make things perfect and provide them to the people—these are questions and advices he often gave to the officials. When he dropped in at the families of workers and a teacher who had moved into newly-built Changjon Street in downtown Pyongyang, he had unceremonious talks with them, showing meticulous care for their living. Saying that under the socialist system of the DPRK the interests of the people are regarded as top priority and absolute and all the policies of the Party and state are for their good, he posed for a photo with them and presented household utensils to them, wishing them a happy future. And he never overlooks any infringement on the people’s interests however
trifle it may be. When he inspected a pleasure park, he pointed out its poor management and noted that without the spirit of devoted service for the people officials could not be true to the Party’s intention whatever they might do. He sternly criticized the officials, saying that no matter how many of officials there might be, they would be useless if they did not feel a qualm of conscience but insouciant when the pleasure park which is used by the people had come to such a pass, and if they did not value the people. Led by Kim Jong Un who has a staunch spirit of devoted service for the people, the WPK is now striving to ensure that they enjoy the benefits of socialism as early as possible, holding higher the slogan “We serve the people!”
maintain security without help from People’s Liberation Army troops from the mainland. In contrast to National Day celebrations in Hong Kong, hundreds of people attended a tightly choreographed flagraising ceremony in Tiananmen Square in Beijing. The daily event was typically austere, featuring goose stepping soldiers and a brass band. Communist Party leaders in Beijing worry that calls for democracy could spread to the mainland, and have been aggressively censoring news and social media comments about the Hong Kong demonstrations. A strongly worded editorial in the People’s Daily, the Communist Party mouthpiece, attacked the Occupy Central protests as being confrontational. “And now, a handful of people are bent on confronting the law and stirring up trouble. (They) will eventually suffer the consequences of their actions,” it said yesterday. Rights groups said that a number of mainland activists supporting the Hong Kong protests had been detained or intimidated by police on the mainland. One activist, Ou Biaofeng, said that two police officers had taken him from his home in Zhuzhou city in central Hunan province to a building on the outskirts of the city.
“They said you are actively supporting the Hong Kong movement Occupy Central ... this has attracted the attention of the higher-level leaders, so you must come with us,” he told Reuters by telephone from the building. William Nee, China researcher at Amnesty International, said nine activists had been “denied freedom of movement” while two others have been criminally detained. The protests have hit the share market, with the city’s benchmark index registering a 7.3 percent fall over the past month. Markets are closed on Wednesday and Thursday for the holiday. Some banks and other financial firms have begun moving staff to back-up premises on the outskirts of the city to prevent growing unrest in the financial hub from disrupting trading and other critical functions, two business services firms said. [ID:nL3N0RW25F} Mainland Chinese visiting Hong Kong had differing views on the demonstrations. “For the first time in my life, I feel close to politics,” said a 29-year-old tourist from Beijing surnamed Yu. “I believe something like this will happen in China one day.” But a woman surnamed Lin, from the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, said the protesters’ demands for a democratic election were “disrespectful to the mainland”.
Hong Kong: Democracy Protest Mars THOUSANDS of prodemocracy protesters thronged the streets of Hong Kong yesterday, some of them jeering National Day celebrations, as demonstrations spread to a new area of the city, ratcheting up pressure on the pro-Beijing government. There was little sign of momentum flagging on the fifth day of the student-led protest, whose aim has been to occupy sections of the city, including around the Central financial district, in anger at a Chinese decision to limit voters’ choices in a 2017 leadership election. Many had feared that police would use force to move crowds before yesterday’s start to celebrations marking the anniversary of the Communist Party’s foundation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. Those fears proved unfounded. The crowds have brought large sections of the Asian financial hub to a standstill, disrupting businesses from banks to jewelers. There were no reports of trouble by midafternoon yesterday, but witnesses said the number of protesters was swelling. Riot police used tear gas, pepper spray and baton charges at the weekend to try to quell the unrest but tensions have eased since then as both sides appeared prepared to
wait it out, at least for now. Protests spread from four main areas to Tsim Sha Tsui, a shopping area popular with mainland Chinese visitors on the other side of the harbor. It would usually do roaring trade during the annual National Day holiday. Underlining nervousness among some activists that provocation on National Day could spark violence, protest leaders urged crowds not to disturb the flag-raising ceremony on the Victoria Harbour waterfront. Proceedings went ahead peacefully, although scores of students who ringed the ceremony at Bauhinia Square overlooking the harbor booed as the national anthem was played. A beaming Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chunying, who was appointed by Beijing, shook hands with supporters waving the Chinese flag even as protesters who want him to stand down chanted: “We want real democracy.” “We hope that all sectors of the community will work with the government in a peaceful, lawful, rational and pragmatic manner ... and make a big step forward in our constitutional development,” Leung said in a speech. The Hong Kong and Chinese flags billowed in the wind at the completion of the ceremony but one of the main
National Day
protest groups said they marked the occasion “with a heavy heart”. “We are not celebrating the 65th anniversary of China. With the present political turmoil in Hong Kong and the continued persecution of human rights activists in China, I think today is not a day for celebrations but rather a day of sadness,” said Oscar Lai, a spokesman for the student group Scholarism. Hundreds of demonstrators had gathered outside luxury stores and set up makeshift barricades from the early hours of yesterday in anticipation of possible clashes. As in most parts of Hong Kong, the police presence was small. Protesters have set up supply stations with water bottles, fruit, disposable raincoats, towels, goggles, face masks, crackers and tents. M. Lau, 56, said he had taken to the streets of Hong Kong to protest in the 1980s and wanted to do so again in a show of solidarity with a movement that has been led by students as well as more established activists, members of the Occupy Central group. “Our parents and grandparents came to Hong Kong for freedom and the rule
of law. This (protest) is to maintain our 160-year-old legal system for the next generation,” Lau said. The protests are the worst in Hong Kong since China resumed its rule of the former British colony in 1997. They also represent one of the biggest political challenges for Beijing since it violently crushed pro-democracy protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989. Cracking down too hard could shake confidence in market-driven Hong Kong, which has a separate legal system from the rest of China. Not reacting firmly enough, however, could embolden dissidents on the mainland. China rules Hong Kong under a “one country, two systems” formula that accords it some autonomy and freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, with universal suffrage an eventual goal. However, protesters reacted angrily when Beijing decreed on Aug. 31 that it would vet candidates wishing to run for Hong Kong’s leadership. Leung has said Beijing would not back down in the face of protests and that Hong Kong police would be able to
International Baghdad: Wave Of BAGHDAD - At least 35 people were killed in a wave of car bomb and mortar attacks in mainly Shi’ite Muslim districts of Baghdad on Tuesday, Iraqi police and medical sources said. It was one of the most violent days the capital has witnessed since U.S.-led forces began bombing Islamic State insurgents in Iraq last month. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attacks but Islamic State, ultraradical Sunni Muslim militants who seized swathes of northern Iraq in June, claimed several suicide bombings in the capital earlier this year. Two car bombs exploded in busy streets in the al-Horreyya district, killing 20 people and wounding 35, according to the
• Filipino UN peacekeepers
Taliban Suicide Bombers Kill 7, Wound 21 KABUL - Taliban suicide bombers struck two buses carrying Afghan soldiers in Kabul early yesterday, killing seven people and wounding 21, just a day after the signing of a key U.S.-Afghan security pact. The long-awaited deal allows U.S. forces to remain in the country past the end of 2014, ending the uncertainty over the fate of foreign troops supporting Afghans as they take over the fight against the Taliban insurgency. Yesterday’s attacks involved two suicide bombers targeting buses carrying Afghan troops in the country’s capital. The first attacker hit a bus
with Afghan National Army officers in west Kabul, killing seven and wounding 15, said the city’s criminal investigation police chief Mohammad Farid Afzali. The second attacker, who was also on foot, blew himself up in front of a bus in northeastern Kabul, wounding at least six army personnel, Afzali said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying the security pact with America has only motivated the group and given the Taliban “more morale” to fight the enemy. “They need to give more
MANILA - Philippine President Benigno Aquino yesterday criticised the United Nations for refusing to better arm Filipino peacekeepers in the Golan Heights, saying this made their mission “impossible”. Aquino said the UN’s rejection of his request to give the peacekeepers more weapons had left them unnecessarily vulnerable when Al-Qaedalinked Syrian rebels attacked and surrounded them in August. “Our troops cannot be part of a situation wherein their mission is impossible or unclear,” Aquino said during a ceremony at the presidential palace to award the Golan Heights troops military medals. The Philippines, one of Asia’s biggest suppliers of peacekeepers to UN missions, pulled out its 344-strong Golan Heights contingent last month because of the worsening security situation there. It came after dozens of the peacekeepers engaged the AlQaeda-linked rebels in a fourday standoff, refusing to surrender their arms, before escaping under the cover of night. The rebels also disarmed and abducted 45 Fijian peacekeepers, who were later
freed unharmed. “Our request for more arms was denied.... and our fears were realised when the standoff happened,” Aquino said. Aquino also said the entry of Al-Qaeda-linked insurgents had complicated the peacekeeping missions, which were originally meant to police a ceasefire between Israel and Syria in the disputed territory. “I keep on asking, what really is our mission in the Golan Heights? We are separating Syria and Israel, then the rebels entered the picture,” he said.
sacrifices to make their homeland free,” Mujahid said, referring to Taliban fighters. In a separate statement to media, the Taliban denounced the Bilateral Security Agreement as an “American plot” and said that “such fake documents will never hold back the lawful jihad,” or holy war. In Kabul, dozens of Afghan security forces sealed off the attack sites, littered with broken
glass, as military ambulances took the victims to hospital. Worried Afghans passed by, on their way to work. Under the security pact, along with a separate deal signed with NATO, about 10,000 American troops and several thousand more from other NATO countries will stay to train and advise Afghan forces after the international combat mission ends on December 31.
Attacks Kill 35
police and medical sources. There was also a mortar attack in the Sab al-Bour neighbourhood of northern Baghdad that killed five people and wounded 15. Later on Tuesday, at least seven people were killed and 18 wounded when a car bomb exploded in the mainly Shi’ite Zaa’faraniya district of southeast Baghdad, police said. Three mortars also landed in the Shi’ite al-Shula district in the capital’s northwest, killing three people and wounding 12, police said. Baghdad has witnessed relatively few attacks compared to the violence in other areas hit by Islamic State’s offensive though bombs still struck the capital on a fairly regular basis. Mortar rounds have a short range compared to rockets, indicating the assailants fired from near the districts. Security sources say Islamic fighters have tried to use farmland northwest of Baghdad to approach Shi’ite districts. There were also several smallscale attacks in predominantly Shi’ite areas across the country. In the southern oil hub of Basra, a parked car bomb exploded in a parking lot, setting ablaze five
Philippine Criticises UN Mission
Protesters gather around the Golding Baihinia Square during an official flag raising ceremony to commemorate the Chinese National Day in Hong Kong yesterday.
Police Find Missing Schoolgirl Body
LONDON - Police yesterday said they had found a body in a London river following a sweeping search for missing teenager Alice Gross and were now hunting a Latvian suspect. The 14-year-old went missing more than a month ago while walking along a canal in west London and the Latvian man, a convicted murderer, was seen nearby at the same time. The suspect, Arnis Zalkalns, who served eight years in prison in Latvia for stabbing his wife and burying her in a forest, has been missing and police believe he may have returned to his
home country. There is no European arrest warrant out for the 41-year-old man. Hundreds of officers joined the search for Alice in the biggest police operation since suicide bomb attacks in London in 2005. Royal Air Force drones were even used to find potential movements on the ground to focus on. “We are unable to make a formal identification at this stage but clearly this news is devastating for everyone involved in the search for
Alice,” police commander Graham McNulty said. “This is now a murder investigation,” he said. The officer, who led the search, said the discovery was made in the night and “significant efforts were made to conceal the body”. The River Brent where the body was found links to the Grand Union Canal where the teenager was last seen walking. Thousands of yellow ribbons have been hung around the Hanwell area in west London where Alice’s family lives in the
past few weeks in solidarity. Local member of parliament Steve Pond said the investigation had shown up “pretty horrific gaps” in information sharing between European Union countries, adding that British police should have been made aware of Zalkalns’s murder conviction. Zalkalns, who moved to Britain in 2007 after serving his sentence, was arrested but then released in 2009 following an accusation from another 14year-old girl who said he had drugged and sexually assaulted her, British media reported.
cars but causing no casualties, police said. In the town of Kifil, near the Shi’ite holy city of Najaf, at least one person was killed and three wounded by a car bomb. And in Kerbala, a car bomb blast on a busy street wounded at least seven people and torched a police car, police said. In the Kurdish-controlled town of Khanaqin, 140 km (100 miles) northeast of Baghdad, at least four Kurdish security members were killed and 12 wounded in a bomb attack on their patrol, police and medics said. U.S.-led forces started bombing Islamic State targets in Iraq in August and Washington expanded the campaign to Syria last week in an effort to defeat the well-armed insurgents who have swept through Sunni areas of both Iraq and Syria.
Court Jails 68 Pro-Morsi Protesters
CAIRO - An Egyptian court sentenced 68 people to up to 15 years in prison on Tuesday over protest clashes, in the latest mass sentencing of supporters of ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi. They were accused of taking part in street violence in October 2013 in which more than 50 demonstrators were shot dead in Cairo during clashes with police. The Cairo court handed down 15 year sentences to 63 defendants and 10 years to five others, judicial sources and state media said. Police have cracked down harshly on supporters of Morsi since his ouster by the military in July 2013, killing hundreds in clashes and arresting thousands. Dozens of policemen have also Courts have sentenced hundreds of protesters to death or prison. In another trial Tuesday, a Cairo court sentenced nine activists to two years for taking part in an unauthorised gathering at which they called for a ban on demonstrations to be repealed, a judicial source said.
CHANGE OF
NAME
EWAH – I formerly Miss Rosemary Omonigho Ewah now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs Rosemary Omonigho Ewah-Odiase. All former documents remain valid. Irrua Specialist Hospital, Irrua and the general public should please take note.
International Features EGYPT has offered to train pro-government forces battling rival armed groups in Libya, stepping up efforts to eradicate what it says is a threat to its own stability from the anarchy engulfing its neighbor. gainst Mursi reporters. The offer was the latest sign of intervention by competing Arab powers in Libya - a haven for Islamist militants and close to becoming a failed state - while Western governments are preoccupied with Iraq and Syria. Egypt is trying to reassert its regional authority on its own terms while also winning back the U.S. military aid suspended after Cairo cracked down on the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood. Egyptian military officials and representatives of progovernment Libyan forces have met several times over the past two months in Cairo and the Mediterranean city of Marsa Matrouh, Egyptian security officials said. An intelligence official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said “intelligence and training” assistance were on the table. The Egyptian government spokesman declined comment, but Ahmad Buzeyad Al-Missmari, spokesman of the Libyan General Chief of Staff, confirmed Egypt had offered training for troops. President Abdel Fattah alSisi has called for decisive action against militants based in Libya, who Egypt says sneak across the border to help Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis jihadists attack Egyptian security forces in its Sinai desert near Israel. “Egypt has more intelligence on where they (the Libyan-based militants) are, how many there are, what kinds of weapons they had available,” the intelligence official said. Egyptian security officials have said Ansar Bayt alMaqdis — the country’s most dangerous militant group — has contacts with al Qaeda offshoot Islamic State, now targeted by U.S.-led air strikes in Iraq and Syria after it swept through Iraq, executing those who did not declare allegiance. Sisi, who has publicly backed but not joined the air strikes, said last month any global coalition against Islamic State should tackle an array of extremist groups, making clear his main concern lay closer to home. Islamists in Libya with ties to the Muslim Brotherhood were hit by air strikes last
• President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi addresses the 69th United Nations General Assembly at UN Headquarters in New York recently.
producing country. Egyptian fears deepened after Libya-based Islamic militant gunmen killed 21 Egyptian military border guards in July. Officials say Cairo has no intention of intervening directly in the conflict but two national security officials say Egypt considered launching a cross-border offensive several months ago. It was not clear what had become of that idea. The Egyptian security officials highlighted what they said were links between militants in both Libya and Egypt and Islamic State, saying Libyan-based Egyptian militants dream of creating an Islamic State-style empire in their homeland. An Ansar commander told reporters last month that Islamic State was coaching his
Egypt Offers Military Training To Libya month that U.S. officials said were staged by Egypt and United Arab Emirates. The UAE has not formally responded to the allegations and Egypt publicly denied involvement in the bombings, which came against a background of U.S. concern some countries may see the war against Islamic State as a green light for other attacks. With the influence of the Islamic State spreading among the North Africa-based Islamist militant groups which send jihadi fighters to Syria and Iraq, Libya’s western neighbor Algeria also plans to train Libyan forces. But deeper involvement by Egypt, to its east, brings in one of the biggest armies in the Middle East, seeking to patch up a reputation damaged by its overthrow last year of elected Islamst president Mohamed Mursi after mass protests against him. In April, Washington restored some of the annual $1.3 billion military aid to Egypt it froze after the military takeover but analysts said human rights concerns meant relations remained cool. Libya has been torn apart by the worst violence since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The government and elected parliament have relocated to Tobruk in the far east since losing control of the capital, Tripoli, where a rival administration has been created by mainly Islamistaligned forces from the western city of Misrata. The government has accused Sudan and Qatar of
seeking to arm groups ranged against it, allegations both states have firmly denied, and at the United Nations on Saturday, it asked the world for weapons to help restore security and rebuild its institutions so it does not have to “face terrorism alone”. An Egyptian national security official who spoke to Reuters said the country would not give arms. “Weapons in Libya are like rice,” he said, suggesting they were already abundant. Some of those weapons are smuggled across the border and end up in the hands of Ansar fighters, security officials say. “Security forces are catching smugglers everyday,” said the national security official. Others come from dealers in Sudan who place them on boats that travel the Nile then unload in Egyptian towns, the officials said. “Militants are paying for these weapons, for example, by robbing armored cars going from Cairo to banks in Alexandia and Sharm al-
Sheikh,” the national security official said. Western countries are particularly concerned by the presence of Islamist militant group Ansar al-Sharia in Libya, which the United States blames for killing its ambassador and three other Americans in 2012 and classifies as a terrorist organization. The stakes are also high for Egypt, a strategic U.S. ally which has a peace treaty with Israel and controls the vital Suez Canal global shipping lane but which has been unstable since a popular uprising ousted autocrat Hosni Mubarak in 2011. Sisi crushed the Muslim Brotherhood after removing them from power as army chief last year, but hardcore Islamist insurgents have defied security crackdowns and killed hundreds of security forces, damaging the country’s vital tourist trade. Sisi has told the head of Libya’s parliament that Cairo would fully support efforts to achieve stability in the oil-
group on how to create secret cells and evade capture, links affirmed by security officials. Islamic State recently urged Egyptian militants to carry on with attacks on security forces and beheadings a day after a bomb attack beside the Egyptian foreign ministry in Cairo claimed by a militant group killed three policemen. “There’s a relationship between Libya’s militants, Islamic State and Sinai militants. They have ideological ties and say they’re together,” said the intelligence official. The message conveyed by Islamic State was ‘If you need anything or want to draw on our experience let us know,’” he said. The national security official said there were signs Islamic State may be expanding its relationship with Ansar, citing a captured Ansar militant as telling his Egyptian interrogators an Islamic State fighter in Iraq had contacted him and sent money. That account could not be independently confirmed. Washington has designated Ansar a terrorist organization,
but said in April it generally maintained a local focus. Libya’s military consists of former soldiers from the Gaddafi era and rebels who helped topple him who are now being integrated by the defense ministry. But political turmoil is delaying attempts by foreign partners to train up a proper army. Aside from offering to train pro-government Libyan forces, Cairo is also willing to do business with former Libyan army general Khalifa Haftar in order to push back the militants, the intelligence official said. Aftar emerged as a renegade commander fighting Islamists but has recently entered into a frail alliance with the government in Tobruk, part of the chaos and ever-changing alliances in post-Gaddafi Libya. “Egypt told Haftar they could help him against the militants in Derna. That their locations could be provided and that his men could be trained on how they can fight them,” said the intelligence official. Egyptian security officials are especially alarmed over militants operating in and around the Libyan city of Derna, an Islamist and al Qaeda hotspot a few hundred kilometers away from the border. Libya’s neighbors and European nations have been trying to bring the waring parties together to find a political solution. Algeria said it was willing to host a reconciliation conference. Algerian police are planning to train 60 Libyans as a first move to help it handle its domestic security and the Algerian gendarmerie has also been involved in training efforts with Libyan security forces, a security source told reporters. But the program has faced difficulties because of the lack of interlocutors in Libya, the security source said, and Algerian officials say a political solution is the only way to get lasting stability. • Courtesy: REUTERS
“The stakes are also high for Egypt, a strategic U.S. ally which has a peace treaty with Israel and controls the vital Suez Canal global shipping lane but which has been unstable since a popular uprising ousted autocrat Hosni Mubarak in 2011.”
Power Of Silence (2) SINCE all that can be physically seen, is simply the outcome of spiritual life, it is not hard for you to comprehend that conditions on earth are also, formed according to the nature of the spiritual life which immediately surrounds us. What logically follows from this is clear. Through the wise ordering of creation man has been given the power to shape conditions for himself with the power of the creator. Abd-ru-shin opines that happy is he who uses it only for good. But woe unto him who succumbs to the temptation to use it for evil. The spirit in men is only encompassed and darkened by earthly desire, which clings to it like dross, burdens it and drags it down. However, his thoughts are acts of will endowed with spiritual power. The decision to think in a good or evil way lies with man and he can thus, guide the Divine Power to good or evil purposes. There in lies the resibility that man bears, for reward or retribution will infallibly be his, as all the consequences of his thoughts return to the starting point through the established reciprocal action, which never fails and which is quite inflexible in this matter, thus, inexorable. Thereby, also incorruptible, stern and just. If today, many opponents of religion reject the existence of a God head, this cannot in any way alter the facts I have cited. People need only omit the little word “God” and engross themselves deeply in science and they will find exactly the same, only expressed in different words. It is absurd, therefore, still to argue about it. Abd-ru-shin the author of grail message says that there is no getting round the laws. No man can defy them. God is the power that activates the natural laws, the power that nobody has yet grasped or seen, but whose effects every one daily, hourly, indeed in every fraction of a second, must see, intuitively sense and observed, if only he
wants to do so in himself, in every animal, every tree, every flower in every fibre of a leaf swelling and bursting its sheath to come to the light. Christ brought redemption from the darkness by pointing out the way to the truth, by showing man the path to the luminous height. And with his blood shed on the cross he set the seal to his conviction (Abd-rushin). Truth has never yet been different from what it was then and is today and still will be tens of thousands of years hence, for it is eternal. Therefore, learn to know the laws contained in the great book of the entire creation. To submit to them means. To love God. For then, you will bring no discord into the harmony, but will help to bring the resounding chord to its full magnificence. Whether you say. I voluntarily submit to the existing laws of nature because, it is for my own good or I submit to God’s will, which manifests in the laws of nature or to the unfathomable power which activates the laws of nature. The power is there and you recognise it, you simply must acknowledge it, because, as soon as you reflect a little there is nothing else you can do and thereby, you acknowledge your God, the creator. This power also operate within you when you are thinking. Therefore, do not misuse it to evil purpose, but think good thoughts. Never forget. When you are producing thoughts you are using Divine Power, with which you can achieve the purest and highest. Try never to forget here that all the consequences of your thoughts always fall back upon you in proportion to the power, importance and extent of the effect of the
thoughts for good or evil. Since thought is spiritual, however, the consequences will return spiritually. They will thus, affect you no matter whether here on earth or later in the spiritual after your departure. Being spiritual they are by no means bound to the material either. Thus, it follows that the disintegration of the body does not prevent the consequences from taking effect. The requital in the reaction will surely come, sooner or later, here or hereafter, with all certainty.
The spiritual link with all your works remains firm, for indeed earthly material works also, have a spiritual origin through the creative thought and will remain in existence even when everything earthly has passed away. It is therefore rightly said. “Your works await you in so far as the effect has not yet reached you through the reaction”. (Abd-ru-shin). If you are still on earth when a reaction is due, or if you are again here the
consequences coming from the spiritual will exert their force according to their nature either for good or for evil, through your circumstances and your environment or directly on yourself, on your body. It must be emphasised according to Abd-ru-shin that the real life takes place in the spiritual. And that knows neither time nor space and therefore, no separation either. It stands above earthly conceptions. For this reason, the consequences will strike
you, wherever you may be, at the time when according to the eternal law, the effect returns to its starting-point. Nothing is lost in the process, it is bound to come. This now also answers the question so often asked. Why is it that obviously, good people must sometimes suffer such bitter adversity in their earth lives as to make it appear unjust? These are reciprocal affects, which must strike them. Now you know the answer to this question for your
Man And Nature With O.C. MADU 08056379608
existing physical body plays no part in it. Abd-ru-shin says your body is not you personally, it is not your entire “ego”, but an instrument which you have chosen or which you have chosen or which you were obliged to take according to the existing laws of the spiritual life, which you may call cosmic laws if that makes them
“What he has to make good”. Abd-ru-shin says we should take comfort, in the wise provision of the great creation, as you awaken a path is also, shown to you to you through that power of good volition to which Abd-ru-shin called special attention and which mitigates or entirely pushes aside the dangers of the
easier to understand. The particular earth life is but a short span of your real existence. A crushing thought if there were no escape, no protecting power to counter act it. On awakening to the spiritual many a person would then have to despair and wish rather to go sleeping in the same old way. For he has no idea what awaits him, what will still strike him in the shape of reaction from former times. Or as people say.
karma that is taking effect. According to him, the father’s spirit has given into your hands. The power of good volition forms a circle around you capable of disintegrating the evil pressing upon you or at least of greatly modifying it, exactly as the atmosphere also, protects the earth. But the power of good volition, this strong protection, is festered and nourished by the power of silence. Therefore, the exhortion. “Keep the hearth of your thoughts pure and then, above all exercise the great power of silence if you wish to ascend”. The father has already endowed you with the strength for everything you have only to use it. Peace and love.
“If today, many opponents of religion reject the existence of a God head, this cannot in any way alter the facts I have cited. People need only omit the little word “God” and engross themselves deeply in science and they will find exactly the same, only expressed in different words. It is absurd, therefore, still to argue about it.”
Can Man City Live Up To Expectations By EDET ELIJAH
AS City lost their first group game to Bayern Munich and played a 1-1 draw with Roma at the Ethhad on Tuesday, one begins to wonder what mindset is stopping those players in light blue from exercising their full potential. For me, I believe any player that features such quality as David Silva, Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure, and Aguero amongst others is good enough to dominate the game of football at any stage. I want to see this crop of City players step up their game in the champions League. I want them to draw on the same belief that they have every week in the Premier League. In England, only Chelsea are better
equipped for the Champions League. City is capable of beating nine out of 10 teams at this level. It disappoints me that they have this mentality where by they are just happy to be along side the great forces of Europe. Maybe they feel they need to win more Premier League titles before they have the right to dine at the highest stage of club football. I sure hope that is not the case because they really should be making an impact right now. Pellegrini has started to get a bit spiky. We noticed that when he said Chelsea played like a small club at the etihad last weekend. Manchester City has to find a quick solution to their champions’ league under performing attitude. The resources are there to compete with anyone. So, come on City – show us more of what you’ve got.
Rooney’s Decade As Man Utd player
By EDET ELIJAH
Wagne Rooney.
Glorious European Nights Wasted On Soulless Man City Fans
LITTLE did we know when Bayern Munich were traipsing out to play in a deserted stadium in Moscow around tea time on Tuesday that ghostly atmospheres would quickly become the theme for the evening. rather than a dedication about City Bayern coach Pep Guardiola fans as they took to their seats. said that never again did he And they appeared to be plenty of want to experience such goings empty spaces, it is worth pointing on after Thomas Mueller scored out. a penalty in the first half to Just over 37,000 fans witnessed condemn CSKA Moscow to the match. It is difficult to defeat in a match played behind remember a song of any note closed doors on UEFA’s orders. being sung with any great relish. Moscow’s ground was closed Golf fans were making much due to several episodes of racist more noise during the Ryder Cup chanting at the Arena Khimki, last week which says enough. but Guardiola was not content All the frisson was emanating about the effect it had on his from a Roma support, who Bayern side. obviously continue to put great “Communication is a little stock on the Champions League. better for a coach when there As the match progressed with are no fans, but it is much better Franceso Totti overtaking Ryan with fans in the stands. Football Giggs as the oldest goalscorer in is played for the people, not for Champions League and enjoying us. I hope these things that have the run of the place at the age of happened won’t happen again.” 38, it would have been worth Perhaps Pep should have tried checking if there was Mogadon in out the Etihad with fans in it. It the bovril of the home followers. didn’t seem much livelier. The former Manchester United Manchester City’s Yaya player Paul Scholes summed it up Toure was racially abused in during his role as a pundit on ITV. Moscow last year prompting “It just doesn’t have a European the authorities to act, but he night feel to it,” said Scholes. would have heard as much “You go to Liverpool, you go to noise if he had been back in the Old Trafford, you go to Chelsea, Russian capital without a they have a special feeling for it. CSKA fan in sight. “Tonight I don’t think there is Whatever else is made of (a special atmosphere). I don’t Manchester City’s excellence think they realise what a big game as a football team, and the this is. riches that they bathes in via “They’ve got the team, they’ve their Abu Dhabi owners, the definitely got the players, the atmosphere at the Etihad quality is definitely there, but do Stadium is soulless. the crowd realise how lucky they You can buy a team, a dream, are to be in this competition? I and a title, but you can’t buy a don’t think they do.” crowd, or a party. Manchester On such lofty occasions, you do City’s ground on European question the damaging long-term nights seems to contain as much effect money has had on the game spirit as Napoleon’s retreat of football. from Moscow. It is only 15 years since Paul City’s struggles to master the Dickov was helping City clamber nuances of Champions League back out of the old Second appears to be matched by their Division via a play-off match support’s inexplicable against Gillingham at the old indifference towards it. Wembley, a match City only won With 20 minutes until kickon penalties. off, there seemed like a duty
City were in the third rung of English football. The idea of bringing Champions League football to the old Maine Road back then would have been enough to suggest City diehard had seen a real Blue moon over Manchester. They still play Oasis’s Roll With It at full-time, but how many City supporters stick about until the full-time whistle to hear it? When City were pushing for the Premier League title last season, the final whistle of a 1-0 win over Stoke in February was greeted with as much gusto as a fisherman hooking an old Frannie Lee boot out of the Irwell. Plenty had headed for the exit doors. Their relationship with the ground formerly known as Eastlands seems about as healthy for the mental compass as having Kelly Brook as your love interest. Either the City fans from Maine Road have become dispossessed, or Roy Keane’s
Prawn Sandwich Brigade now occupy the joint. Fans of City have quickly become spoiled. It is quite
astonishing to accept that the City’s fans can’t take to a match with a side such as AS Roma.
Francesco Totti
Giroud’s New Arsenal Deal Is ‘Done’ - Wenger ARSENE Wenger has c onfirmed that Olivier
Oliver Giroud
SINCE arriving at Old Trafford, Rooney has reached double figures in each and very campaign. His first season saw him deliver 11 goals before a further 16 in 2005/06 as Chelsea secured a Premier League double. The following three campaigns saw the striker bag 14, 12 and 12 as united secured three titles in succession. He scored an outstanding 26 goals in the 2009/10 season and went one better in 2011/12 with 27. The season ended in heartache as rivals Manchester City won the title on the final day. During his time with United, Rooney has helped the club win five premier league titles. He played an integral part in the three consecutive successes between 2006 and 2009 and then again in 2010/11. The 28 year olds relationship with Robin van Persie was one of the key reasons for United’s triumph in 2012/13 in what was Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season in charge. However, the end of that campaign was overshadowed by a high profile bust up between Rooney and Ferguson as he harbored over a move to Chelsea. While his talent is unquestionable, doubts continued to be raised over his temperament which again reared its ugly head against West Ham. That dismissal was Rooney’s third for United, the two others coming for misconduct at Fulham and in a champions league match at Villarreal. During his decade at the club, he has received 82 bookings Saturday’s strike against west ham took Rooney within 30 goals of sir Bobby Charlton’s all time united record. The club legend managed the tally in 758 games with Rooney having currently made a full 300 appearances less than that. Dennis Law ahead of him on 237 but the current Red Devils skipper will expect to surpass in the next couple of years. The top five is completed by Jack Rowley and Dennis Viollet with 211 and 179 goals respectively
Giroud has signed a new contract that will keep him at the Emirates Stadium until 2018. The Frenchman joined the Gunners in 2012 from Ligue 1 side Montpellier, and netted 41 goals in his first two seasons with the north London club. It was widely reported earlier this month that Arsenal had opened contract talks with Giroud and Theo Walcott, despite the pair carrying long-term injuries, and an agreement has now been reached with the 27year-old forward, according
to a report in the Daily Telegraph. Giroud’s deal is worth a reported £80,000 per week and will keep him with Arsene Wenger’s men until the end of the 2017-18 season. The Gunners boss confirmed the news in a press conference ahead of Arsenal’s Premier league clash with Chelsea this weekend. Wenger added: “We want stability and to keep the core of our team together. Giroud is an important player here. “It is agreed. When it is completely done, we will announce it.”
Mourinho Targeting Maribor For Chelsea Progression JOSE Mourinho targeted victory believes that two wins against Maribor in Group G of the Champions League will see Chelsea through. Nemanja Matic’s firsthalf header was enough for the Blues to win, despite Diego Costa missing an early opportunity, Andre Schurrle spurning a number of fine chances and Oscar being denied by Sporting goalkeeper Rui Patricio. Chelsea top Group G after Schalke and Maribor’s draw in the night’s other game and next play the Slovenian side twice, seeking two wins and a place in the knockout stages. Mourinho said: “This is not knockout where goals are fundamental. This is points. We lost two points at home (drawing 1-1 with Schalke), we recovered that. “Because of the other draw, we put ourselves not in a comfortable position, but in one where we can control our destiny. “We play two games against Maribor. If we manage six points, that would be 10 (points) and job done. “Now we have just to focus on beating Maribor, which I believe is not easy. To draw in Germany means something.” The Blues, who next play Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, squandered a host of opportunities to make life more comfortable for themselves in ending Sporting’s 16-match unbeaten home run in Europe. Mourinho made a point of speaking to Patricio at the end of the contest when the goalkeeper continually thwarted the visitors. “I’m not going to repeat the words, because they would be censored,” Mourinho added. “It had to do with something with spoiling the evening, spoiling the night. “Games like this can end up 4-0 or 5-0, but it ended up 1-0 and a well managed goal. “We had to make sure we closed all avenues for them to come back into the game and claim a draw, and that’s what we did.” Chelsea captain John Terry told Sky Sports 5: “We had so many chances, it was one of those nights where it just didn’t go but thankfully ‘Mati’ came up with a good header. “We lost our first game last year and came back to win so that was in our mind, that we had to win.” It was Terry’s 100th Champions League appearance and he said: “I’m very proud, there’s not too many players to achieve that.”
David Luiz Happy To Answer Critics With Goal In PSG Win DAVID Luiz says that beating Barcelona in the Champions League was a “dream come true” after admitting that he has struggled at the start of his PSG career. Luiz, 27, scored the opening goal against a club he had been heavily linked with joining while still at Chelsea, and earned high praise from the French press as PSG went top of Group F with a 3-2 win at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday. The 50 million-euro summer signing was relieved that the French champions rose to the occasion after drawing five of their opening eight league matches. “It was a superb night and a great match,” he told Canal+. “It’s the Champions League and we like big nights like that. “We haven’t been playing
David Luiz
Ajax Pay The Penalty As APOEL Hold Out For A Draw AJAX and APOEL played out an exciting 1-1 draw in the Champions League but both sides were left regretting missing the opportunity to seize all three points. Gustavo Manduca’s penalty just after the half-hour for APOEL cancelled out Lucas Andersen’s 28th-minute opener in Group F. Both teams created enough chances at APOEL’s GSP stadium to earn victory but Ajax, who enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, were left most annoyed after squandering the lead.Andersen opened the scoring for the Dutch champions when the ball fell to him after Lasse Schone’s tame effort was beaten away by keeper Uker Pardo. Ajax almost scored again straight from the restart following a mix-up at the back but it took APOEL just three minutes to draw level when a handball by right back Ricardo van Rhijn gave Manduca the opportunity to equalise from the spot. He sent Dutch number one keeper Jasper Cillessen the wrong way to send the home fans into a frenzy. Ajax coach Frank De Boer was disappointed by the penalty decision, despite replays appearing to support the officials. “The referee gave the penalty after taking advice from one of his assistants despite being closest to the ball himself,” De Boer said. Ajax are now third in the group with two points, one clear of bottom-placed APOEL. Paris St Germain top the standings with four points after winning 3-2 at home to Barcelona, who are a point behind. Ajax enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges and should have taken the lead in the second minute when Kolbeinn Sigthorsson, who netted a hat-trick at the weekend, side-footed wide from just inside the penalty area. After the equaliser the Cypriot side appeared to come out of their shell and created a glorious opportunity just before the break, when Cillian Sheridan narrowly missed getting his toe to Manduca’s return pass.
Apoel Nicosia’s Tiago Gomes (left) is challenged by Ajax Amsterdam’s Thulani Serero during their champions league match.
well but this evening the players did what was required to win. “Likewise for the coach, the staff and the supporters. The atmosphere was magnificent — it’s a dream come true.” Luiz set PSG on their way after only 10 minutes, sweeping home left-footed to punish some slack defending from a free-kick. The Brazilian defender was pleased to have played a crucial role in such a big win. “It’s amazing for me,” he said. “Everyone was saying bad things about me but that’s normal when you’re not playing well. Big players always have pressure on them. “I’m happy to have scored the first goal but it’s only the start. I have to keep working every day to improve.” David Luiz was instrumental in PSG’s win in the absence of injured striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and captain Thiago Silva. Luiz’s central defensive partner Marquinhos made a superb block to prevent Jordi Alba from snatching a late equaliser for Barcelona. The Brazil international told Le Parisien that it was important that his side now back up Tuesday night’s performance. “It’s good to produce this kind of match in the Champions L eague but now we have to keep the same energy, intensity and solidarity for Ligue 1,” he said. PSG face Monaco in their next league match on Sunday and Blaise Matuidi, who scored the third goal against Barcelona, also sounded a note of caution. “This evening we showed that PSG can also be a big team,” he told France Football. “But now we have to back it up this weekend in our bread and butter, which is the league.”
Barcelona Defeat Was Inevitable
THE Croatia international is refusing to panic after Barcelona’s unbeaten start to the campaign was brought to an
Keylor Navas
abrupt end in the Champions League Ivan Rakitic said the “day
- Rakitic
was always going to come” when Barcelona would lose their unbeaten start to the campaign following the 3-2 Champions League group stage defeat to Paris SaintGermain on Tuesday. The Catalans had won six and drawn one of their first six games under new coach Luis Enrique - and all without conceding a goal. However, they looked extremely brittle at the back at the Parc des Princes, with David Luiz and Marco Verratti both exposing Barca’s ongoing vulnerability at set-pieces, before Blaise Matuidi scored what proved to be the game’s decisive goal after a brilliant break from the hosts. Still, while Barca looked
like their old fragile selves in the French capital, Rakitic insists they are not going to suddenly go back to the drawing board ahead of Saturday’s Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano. “This day was always going to come,” the Croatia star told reporters after tasting defeat in a Barca shirt for the first time since his summer switch from Sevilla. “We are self-critical every day. But we’re convinced by our football. Every game is a test for us. We have to carry on doing what we’ve been doing until now. We have to think positively because we have another very hard game on Saturday.” Despite their defeat in Paris, Barca still sit second in Group F, just one point behind the French champions, whom they will host at Camp Nou on the final matchd
Hulk Tells Of ‘Monkey Chants’ In Russian League Game ZENIT St Petersburg forward Hulk has claimed he was the victim of racial abuse from visiting Spartak Moscow fans on Saturday, the second such incident to rock the Russian Premier League in a week. The 28-year-old Brazil international told a Russian newspaper that he could hear monkey chants from fans of the Moscow club during the 0-0 draw at Petrovsky Stadium. “During the game, racist abuse was directed towards me from the Spartak section of the ground,” Hulk was quoted as saying by the Sport Express newspaper on Wednesday. “In the first half, I clearly heard monkey chants shouted in my direction and this was not only on one occasion. It was coming from a large group of people. “This happened at least twice — midway through the first half and during injury time at the end of the first half. “I take this as a personal insult for me and my club. I think that such things have absolutely no place and the football powers-that-be must take action in the fight against the occurrence of racial hatred.” Russian Football Union (RFS) disciplinary committee chief Artur Grigoryants confirmed that racial abuse had taken place with the panel likely to explain what action it will be taking later on Wednesday. “We have a video of the match... in the 24th minute and in the 45th minute, monkey chanting can be
heard being directed at Hulk,” Grigoryants said. “The monkey chants came from the visitors’ section of the ground. The match delegate did not hear them during the game, but only afterwards, when he rewatched it.” This is the second major incident concerning racism in the Russian Premier League within seven days. Last week, the disciplinary committee slapped Torpedo Moscow with sanctions after the club’s fans were found guilty of directing monkey chants towards Dynamo Moscow defender Christopher Samba.
THE Dutchman was unimpressed by the Russians’ tactics during the Group E game at Arena Khimki and also admitted that the absence of a crowd was “not nice” Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben has described Tuesday night’s Champions League win at CSKA Moscow as “easy”, accusing the hosts of only trying to defend. The hosts hit the crossbar during the Group E clash in the Russian capital, while Manuel Neuer also pulled off a fine stop to deny Ahmed Musa. However, Robben insists it was the most routine of victories for Bayern, who enjoyed 73 per cent possession and claimed all three points thanks to Thomas Muller’s penalty midway through the first half. “We can be very happy –
it was easy,” the Netherlands international told reporters after the game. “One team only tried to defend and the other team wanted to attack. “One goal was decisive today and we are very happy with the win and the three points.” Robben admitted, though, that he did not enjoy the experience of playing in a near-empty Arena Khimki, with the game having been played behind closed doors due to Uefa-imposed sanctions relating to the display of “a range of racist and right-wing symbols” by CSKA fans during a game against Viktoria Plzen last year. “It was not nice,” the Dutch attacker lamented. “Football should be for the fans. “But you have to be professional and you have to play the game.”
Xavi Sets Appearance BARCELONA playmaker Xavi came off the bench to Record make a record 143rd Champions League appearance against Paris Saint Germain on Tuesday. Xavi, 34, replaced Ivan Rakitic in the 69th minute at the Parc des Princes with Barca trailing 3-2, surpassing the previous record of 142 Champions League games he jointly held with former Real Madrid striker Raul. John Terry became the second Chelsea player this year to make 100 appearances in the Champions League when he captained his side against
• Hulk
Bayern Munich Fans Criticise UEFA Over CSKA Moscow Tickets
BAYERN Munich fans have hit out at UEFA over claims they were denied access to their club’s 1-0 Champions League win at CSKA Moscow but saw most of the 300 tickets allocated for sponsors go to supporters of the home side. UEFA handed CSKA Moscow a full stadium closure for their first Champions League home match of the season due to their fans’ misbehaviour in their match at Viktoria Plzen last December. Despite protests from Bayern fans who — unaware of the stadium ban — booked flights to Moscow, UEFA decided to go through with the match being played behind closed doors at the 18,000-capacity Arena Khimki. This week, around 70 Bayern fans travelled to
Moscow regardless of the stadium ban, and all of them got to see the match. Some of them made it into the stadium, but the majority of the fans followed the match from the 18th floor of a nearby office building.
On their Facebook page, Bayern’s biggest fan association, the Club Nr.12, thanked “one very special Bayern fan”, who travelled to Moscow on Sunday in order “to arrange the certainly pretty unusual deal.” They also thanked Bayern, who had not only supported the fans before their journey to Russia, but also announced they would
CSKA Win Was Easy For Bayern Munich - Robben
• Pep Guardiola
“reimburse the significant costs” for renting the office. However, Club Nr.12 also published questions directed at UEFA, who granted their sponsors around 300 tickets for the match. “Why is it unthinkable that 70 fans making the journey can attend the match, while at the same time some 300 tickets go to sponsors,” they asked, and claimed with their next question that the “majority of the sponsor tickets were passed on to CSKA fans, who — unlike the Bayern fans — had the chance to support their team.” Thomas Muller scored the only goal at a virtually empty Arena Khimki. Meanwhile, Bayern officials also bemoaned the strange atmosphere inside the Arena Khimki. “It was odd with no fans in the stadium,” coach Pep Guardiola said on Sky. “It’s always better if the fans are there. “Football is there for the people. I hope that what happened never happens again.”
Blame Me For Barcelona Defeat THE coach says his side failed to handle the occasion - Luis Enrique properly on Tuesday and conceded they were fully aware of PSG’s threat from set-pieces Barcelona boss Luis Enrique has insisted that he is the one to blame for the club’s 3-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. Lionel Messi and Co. were outplayed for swathes of the match at Parc des Princes, with David Luiz, Marco Verratti and Blaise Matuidi firing the Parisiens to a home victory, easing pressure on under-fire coach Laurent Blanc. Luis Enrique, who has
enjoyed a comparatively simple start since taking over this summer after an unbeaten opening to the 2014-15 campaign, refrained from placing blame on any of his team but accepted that his side failed to handle the occasion as well as their hosts. “The explanation for our defeat is quite clear,” he told reporters. “We were up against a rival who are at the same level as us, and they handled the pressure better than we did. “Tonight we didn’t play as
well as we had hoped. We had a few clear chances at the end when we could have equalised. But I cannot say that it’s an unfair result although a draw wouldn’t have been too unfair either. “We committed basic mistakes when conducting the ball out of our half and that was what caused the dead ball moves from which PSG scored. It was something we knew could happen. “Sometimes it’s inevitable – it’s a catalogue of mistakes. It’s not easy to correct but it’s an area we are aware of.”
Sporting Lisbon in their Group G match in Portugal. His team mate goalkeeper Petr Cech, on the bench for the match in Lisbon, achieved the landmark in March and Terry reached the milestone together with Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta, who captained the La Liga side at Paris St Germain. However, Iniesta’s Barca team mate Xavi was made to wait for an all-time record 143rd appearance in the competition when he was named as a substitute for the Group F match in the French capital.
• Xavi Hernandez
Notts County Breeze Past Crewe
JAKE Cassidy netted twice and Shaun Harrad marked the first start of his second spell at Notts County with a goal as Shaun Derry’s side cruised to a 3-0 win at struggling Crewe. Cassidy put County ahead a minute before the interval with a deft finish from Garry Thompson’s pull back across the box. And the on-loan Wolves striker increased Crewe’s plight at the bottom of the table in the 61st-minute when he polished off Liam Noble’s low cross from inside the six-yard box after County caught their hosts on a swift counter attack. Sandwiched inbetween those efforts, Harrad proved too quick for the Football League’s worst defence when he drove home a deflected effort past Ben Garratt from 10 yards out after 51 minutes. Harrad appeared to be itching to make his mark at his hometown club where he started his career 12 years ago, going close twice before Cassidy struck with the first. The 29-year-old drove an effort past the near post and then scooped over after Garratt spilled a shot from Cassidy. Marcus Haber forced Roy Carroll into a low save after Cassidy’s opener, but there was little to cheer for the Railwaymen at both ends as they sunk to their eighth defeat of the season.
Amaju Pinnick New Nigeria FA Boss
DELTA State Football Association chairman Amaju Pinnick has been elected the president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Pinnick won 32 votes of the 44-man congress after a rerun to beat Taiwo Ogunjobi who had four votes and Iorfa eight votes. The first round of the polls saw Pinnick have 25 votes, Taiwo Ogunjobi nine votes
and Dominic Iorfa got four votes. A re-run was necessary because Pinnick did not have two-third of the votes cast the first time. Pinnick has succeeded Aminu Maigari, who stepped down after a lingering leadership tussle. His immediate task is to
decide on the future of Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi, who does not have a contract even though he handled the Super Eagles in two 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers earlier this month. Pinnick is also expected to during his four-year term improve the finances of the often cash-strapped NFF. Nigeria football endured a long-drawn leadership crisis
since after the World Cup in Brazil, where Nigeria reached the knockout stage. Tuesday’s Nigeria FA vote was not without its incident after electoral committee chairman Samson Ebomhe was arrested and later released by men believed to be from the state security service.
Female Referee Gets Unwelcome Surprise From Player IT’s a hard job being a referee, with most officials unable to make it through a half of football without receiving a barrage of abuse.
Gbolahan Salami Shoots Wolves Umuahia courtesy of an GBOLAHAN Salami’s 86th High Austin Amutu’s 20th minute minute goal was all Warri Wolves need to beat Abia Warriors 1-0 on Monday and climb to second place on the Nigeria league table. Wolves now have 46 points from 29 games, four points adrift of leaders Pillars. Salami converted a penalty after Michael Egbeta was
brought down inside the box. He has now scored 15 goals to go top of goal scorers’ chart. Warri Wolves thus completed a double over Abia Warriors having won in the first stanza 1-0 in
goal. Wolves missed several scoring chances with Joseph Osadiaye the major culprit three times in 15th, 43rd and 63rd minutes. Bartholomew Ibenegbu was also denied by Warriors goalkeeper John Gaadi in the fifth and 26th minutes.
• Gbolahan Salami
But one Argentine official got an unexpected surprise during a lower league clash between Centro Espanol and Liniers. Salome Di Iorio - who was seleced to officiate in the women’s tournament at the 2012 London Olympics - was sent sprawling to the turf after being walloped by the ball from closerange just moments after awarding a freekick. Concerned players immediately huddled around the official, who was helped off the pitch and reportedly taken to hospital as a precaution.
Nigeria Pick 6 Pros For 2014 AWC NIGERIA coach Edwin Okon on Monday named six foreign professionals along with 15 players based at home for the African Women’s Championship. The AWC is slated for between October 11 and 25 in Namibia. France-based Desire Oparanozie tops the list of the foreign-based stars who also include Perpetua Nkwocha, Onome Ebi, Esther Sunday and Francesca Ordega. US-based Ohale Osinachi is the only overseas-based player
Heartland Skipper Efugh
Efugh Hails Heartland Spirited Display At Enyimba HEARTLAND skipper Chinedu Efugh has said a 00 draw recorded at Enyimba on Sunday in a Nigeria league Week 29 clash was down to determination and hard work. Efugh said they all knew ‘The Oriental Derby’ will be tough, but they were fired up to end a poor run in Aba, where they have not recorded a point in over three years. “It was a tough and good game. I am happy that we finally got a point off Enyimba in Aba after we have not been able to do so for three seasons now,” he said. “We achieved this feat because we were determined not to lose, we worked hard and prayed for God to crown our efforts, all these worked together for us.”
who has been in training camp in Abuja. The coach also dropped nine players from the Namibia-bound team. They are Sarah Nnodim, Uchechi Sunday, Ihezuo Chiwendu, Loveth Ayila, Rosemary Okezie, Blessing Edoho, Mariam Ibrahim, Charity John and Juliet Obi. The home girls who made the cut for Namibia are regular suspects like skipper Evelyn Nwabuoku, Asisat Oshoala, Precious Dede, Ibubeleye White, Stella Mbachu, Ngozi Okobi and
Murray Fights Back To Beat Tour Finals in London and ANDY Murray maintained Janowicz needs a similarly strong week his good form in China but was made to dig deep before grinding out a 6-7(9) 6-4 6-2 victory over Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz in a night match.
• Andy Murray
Murray, seeded six, won the Shenzhen Open on Sunday in his quest to book one of the eight spots at the season-ending ATP World
to help him climb up from 10th in the standings. Facing off against the bigserving Pole, a man he beat in the semi-finals on his way to winning last year ’s Wimbledon title, Murray was broken in his first three service games before he finally found his form. Trailing 5-1, the Scot battled back to force a tiebreak but both players continued to struggle with their serves and wasted two set points apiece before the Pole finally claimed the opener 11-9 after a gruelling 70-minute set. Murray shook off the disappointment of losing that set and did not lose his serve again, breaking once in the second and twice in the third to set up a second-round match against Uruguay’s Pablo Cuevas.
Gloria Iroka. Others who scaled the hurdle are Ngozi Ebere, Ugo Njoku, Josephine Chukwunonye, Gloria Ofoegbu, Nku Cecilia, Halimat Ayinde, Onyinyechi Ohadugha and Christy Ohiariaku. Coach Okon confessed that it was not easy picking the final 21 players that will don the colours of Nigeria at the AWC noting that all the 9 players he dropped worked very hard to be in the team but that because all of them cannot be in Namibia some of them have to go. He revealed that he had settled for a mixture of youth and experience because there are no longer minnows in women football in Africa stressing that he is optimistic that the squad he picked will reclaim the title for Nigeria. “With the foreign based players guiding the home girls, we sure have what it takes to win in Namibia. We are determined to reclaim the title we lost two years ago by going all out to ensure that we make no mistake,” coach Okon said. Nigeria are drawn in Group A alongside giant killers Cote d Ivoire, who eliminated champions Equatorial Guinea, Zambia and hosts Namibia. Full List: GOALKEEPERS
Precious Dede (Ibom Queens) Ibubeleye White (Rivers Angels) Christy Ohieriaku ( Oshogbo Queens) DEFENDERS Osinachi Ohale (Houston Dash,United States) J o s e p h i n e Chukwunonye (Rivers Angels) Gloria Ofoegbu (Rivers Angels) Onome Ebi ( FK Minsk,Belarus) Ngozi Ebere (Rivers Angels) Ugochi Njoku ( Rivers Angels) MIDFIELDERS Evelyn Nwabuoku (Rivers Angels) Onyinyechi Ohadugha (Rivers Angels) Gloria Iroka (Rivers Angels) Cecilia Nku (Rivers Angels) Ayinde Halimat (Delta Queens) Ngozi Okobi (Delta Queens) FORWARDS Desire Oparanozie (En Avent Guingamp, France ) Perpetua Nkwocha (Sunana SK, Sweden) Esther Sunday (FK Minsk, Belarus) Asisat Oshoala (Rivers Angels) Stella Mbachu (Rivers Angels) Francisca Ordega (Pitea IFF, Sweden)
CMYK
Sitting On A Keg Of Gunpowder
The Christian in Nigeria is constantly faced with a serious dilemma: He must confess positive all the time, because in the church’s belief of the selffulfilling prophesy, the power of the tongue is very strong. At the same time, he is enjoined to remain truthful, even at the edge of doom. Truly, in whatever direction we look, we see Nigeria sitting on a keg of gunpowder, which could explode anytime. It gets messier by the day. In the past, the police formations and the army barracks were places where people took refuge in times of danger. But today, the reverse is the case. Police and army barracks are today sacked with impunity. Soldiers and policemen with their families have had to flee to private houses for safety. How bad could the people’s lack of security be? We are still entertaining ourselves with the recent infamy in which our “combat soldiers” came face to face with men of the Boko Haram and our soldiers ran for dear life, escaping into the Camerouns. This may have been exposed inadvertently. Otherwise, it happens all the time, unnoticed. There is thoroughly a frightening glimpse into our future. The greatest threat here is the desecration of our once sacred institutions. Perhaps the only license one needs to get away with murder today is to run into the PDP after committing the murder. Oblivious of the fact that what goes around comes around, they embark on their impunity slowly – in the tradition of the mad man who feigns total ignorance of the big conflagration raging over there. After all, he only started a small fire here. They have defiled and decimated all our institutions, particularly in
States outside their control. At first, it sounded funny when their party became hopelessly fragmented that at all levels, from the Ward to the National, they ran parallel executives. They soon graduated from there to States outside their control where they moved into the Legislative and Executive branches of government. On the Executive side, they instigated the impeachment of the Governor. That’s how impeachment, which was originally meant to check executive excesses, was soon reduced to an instrument for addressing even minor political disagreements. Yet another dangerous one is what they started lately – setting up parallel legislatures with the instrumentality of the federal might, so called. That’s what they have in Rivers and Edo States. In Rivers State, the obnoxious practice is named after the arrow heads – the authentic legislature, which has an overwhelming majority in the House is called the Amaechi parliament; while the PDP side, which is in a microscopic minority is the Wike parliament. In Edo State, the overwhelming majority is sarcastically referred to as the APC House while the microscopic minority, purchased largely from the APC, is referred to as the PDP House. In each case, both sides run parallel legislatures. This could be their understanding of the concept of a “bi-camera legislature”. It portends danger: First, it threatens our elections and the constitution because as the miscarriage develops, after every election, each contending party will simply set up its own legislature; appoint its own principal officers; and carry on its own business. Second, we see the same anomaly being extended to the Executive
branch, in which case, every subsequent gubernatorial election will produce only winners. After the election, each candidate will just set up his own government and operate from his separate Government House. Then we shall have ‘APC
now moved to the Judiciary. In the past week, two times within four days, the courts in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital, have been sacked by “hoodlums”; and in the last of the two incidents, the office of the Chief Judge of Ekiti State was invaded,
car of the Tribunal Chairman, Justice Muhammed Siraj, was smashed. Other judges, lawyers, court officials and litigants within the court precincts were not spared. Everyone
• President Goodluck Jonathan Government House’ and ‘PDP Government House’ – a future approximation of what we already have under Oshiomohle and the other big mouth! In this animal kingdom, whoever has the support of the police will gain the upper hand. That is the same animal kingdom where they have
with record books torn to shreds and proceedings disrupted. In the commotion that ensued at the Tribunal hearing the case of the last gubernatorial election, Hon. Justices Akintayo and J.O. Adeyeye were given the beating of their lives and the suit of the latter was totally shredded. The
had to scamper for dear life. While the hoodlums had a field day, unleashing their mayhem; the police and other security agents equally had a field day watching and enjoying the theatricals, no thanks to the federal might! Meanwhile, ‘Big Brother’, as usual, says he is “on top of the situation”, trying to
fish out the hoodlums and their sponsors. Bravo! They must continue to hunt the perpetrators, even when the Governorelect of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has avowed unequivocally, “Most of our judges have compromised… The strategy of APC will not work. Nobody no matter how highly placed would remove me cheaply. It would not be too cheap like Segun Oni. I am not going to be cheap at all because I am elected by the people”. That is the macabre dance in Ekiti State, which will soon snowball to all parts of the country. The Judiciary used to be the last hope of the ordinary man. And now that the Judiciary is gone, all else is gone! In all this, we have no one to blame but ourselves. In the real democracies, no political party retains power in perpetuity. When the Americans decide to vote out the Republicans and enthrone the Democrats, it is not that they love the Republicans any less; but they seek change and this helps to keep governments on their toes in terms of performance. When we accept a 60-year continuous reign of one political party, we must also be willing to serve the term of imprisonment to which we have involuntarily sentenced ourselves!
“On the Executive side, they instigated the impeachment of the Governor. That’s how impeachment, which was originally meant to check executive excesses, was soon reduced to an instrument for addressing even minor political disagreements.”
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