The Nigerian
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vo l. 38 • N O . 477 • THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2 0 14 • N100. 0 0 MOTORING Page 20 Vehicle maintenance procedure
Gov Oshiomhole tasks NOA security remains the BENIN CITY – Edo on security said business of everybody and State Governor, should not be left in the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has urged the State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to intensify its awareness campaign in the face of the security challenges
in the country. Comrade Oshiomhole stated this yesterday when the NOA State Director, Mrs. Magdalene Umunnah led the management team on a courtesy visit
to the governor in Government House, Benin City. The State Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Egberanmwen Odubu
hands of security operatives alone. Appreciating the agency’s role in the area of public enlightenment, the deputy governor Continues on page 2
Thisday Dome. Despite the security challenges, there was huge turnout of delegates at the summit. The smooth sail of the Summit was also enhanced by compliance of residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with the Federal
Government’s directive to stay at home except those on essential duty. As a result, some roads hitherto adjudged to be very busy, witnessed light vehicular movements. The airports road, which often recorded heavy vehicular movement and sometimes gridlock, was free of traffic, except for the occasional movement
World Economic Forum begins By JOSES SEDE
SPIRITUALITY Page 21 Lessons from the lives of Saints (4)
ABUJA - The 24th World Economic Forum for Africa began yesterday in the Federal Capital City of Abuja amidst tight security. The Nigerian was also observed at the O b s e r v e r Sheraton hotel as well as correspondent other venues where covering the summit, investors and delegates observed that there was held private meetings huge presence of and networking security personnel at sessions. both the venue and other Besides, from strategic locations within members of staff and the city centre. accredited delegates At the Transcop Hilton that were allowed entry Hotel, which is the main into the venue of the venue for the plenary summit, no other session, stern looking individual including security operatives from unaccredited journalist the Nigeria Police, the was permitted to come Nigerian Army, the close to the venue. Nigerian Security and Similarly, there were Civil Defence Corps as road blockades and well private security diversion along the outfits conducted Sheraton Hotels and thorough screening at Towers, Transcop, the gate. Federal Secretariat, The same scenerio Eagle Square and
of delegates arriving for the forum. Security agents were seen at strategic locations within the FCT, while entry points such as Bwari, Zuba, Gwagwalada and Nyanya/Mararaba axis had heavy security presence. Workers on essential duty who were not
mobile, had a hectic time reaching their offices, as there were few commercial taxis operating within the city. A combined team of security agents including the army, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Department of Security Service, among others, Continues on page 2
Govt cautious on pension managers BENIN CITY –Edo State Government is taking every precautionary measures before engaging Pension Managers for workers. The State Head of Service, Mr Igbaekemen Jerry Obazele who stated this yesterday explained that this was premised on government desire to ensure that its work force gets the best in any programme put in place by government.
Speaking when he received the management of SIGMA Pensions in Benin City, he said that the precautionary measures were geared towards safe guarding the civil servants, stressing that the “Pensions contributions is a matter of life and death”. He added further that pension represents a life saving scheme, saying that the Edo State Government must therefore properly
TIT BIT
“Death ceases to scare when it appears so frequently to hurt.” - Kingsley Ogbeide-Ihama
- HOS
scrutinize the various pension managers before arriving on which one to be appointed. Mr. Obazele told his visitors that the premium placed on the scheme Continues on page 2
COURTESY CALL: Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Egberanmwen Odubu (left) receiving the Centenary flag from the Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Edo State, Mrs. Magdalene Umunnah during a courtesy call to Government House, Benin City. Photo: MOSES OBOH.
APC fixes Monday for State Congress
BENIN CITY - The All Progressives Congress (APC), Edo Chapter, yesterday said it his fixed Monday, May 12, for its rescheduled State Congress. The Publicity
Secretary of the party, Mr. Godwin Erhahon, announced this in an interview with newsmen in Benin City. Erhahon attributed the delay in conducting the Congress to non
conclusion of ward and local government congresses in the state.
By JOSES SEDE ABUJA - France yesterday offered to send security service agents to Nigeria to help recover more than 200
schoolgirls kidnapped by the Boko Haram sect, Foreign Minister, Laurent Fabius, said. With more than 4,000 troops operating between Mali to the
west and Central African Republic to the east, Paris has a major interest in preventing Nigeria’s security situation from deteriorating, having previously voiced
Chibok: France
He said the ward and local government congresses would be
to assist in rescue operation
concerns that Boko Haram could spread further north into the Sahel. “The President has Continues on page 2
concluded on Saturday, adding, “we have met and resolved to conclude the congresses on Monday. “Wards and local g o v e r n m e n t congresses in two or three local government areas yet to be concluded will be conducted on Saturday. “Machinery for the smooth conduct of the state congress have been put in place and Continues on page 2
News
World Economic Forum begins
Continued from page 1 also prevented any vehicle without the official badge from the venue of the event. The Federal Government had on May 3 ordered the closure of all government offices and schools in the FCT, from May 7 to May 9
to ensure a hitch-free event. A statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, explained that the directive was to ensure free flow of traffic in the city during the event.
It is the first time the Africa edition of the annual global forum will be hosted in Nigeria, an event that is supposed to shape global, regional and industry agenda towards the improvement of the state of the world through public-
reminded Jonathan that the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child which Nigeria is a signatory to makes it imperative for all young people under the age 18 years to be entitled to three key things which are provision, protection and participation. He also told the president that the abduction of the girls is “also a very potent threat to the peaceful co-existence of this great nation which you presently lead,” urging him to act fast by deploring “all resources of state towards the
search and rescue of these girls and bring the perpetrators to book.” Also speaking, the Information and C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Commissioner in the state, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari condemned the abduction and stated that government will not negotiate with the captors of the girls. Semenitari also asked those who took the girls away to bring them back, adding that “it is good that everybody is showing concern” and called
private sector cooperation. The three-day forum is expected to attract all stakeholders including prospective foreign and local investors, captains of industry and government officials, among others.
Civil Society, Groups protest Abduction of on the world powers to step By ELIZABETH Chibok School Girls in.Responding to the demand AGBOEGBULEM
PORT HARCOURT- Civil Society and women groups in Rivers State yesterday in Port Harcourt staged a peaceful protest march to demand the immediate rescue of the young female girls who were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State by suspected members of Boko Haram. In their march which started from Isaac Boro Park to Government House Main Gate, Port Harcourt, the group said they were protesting over the continued stay of the girls in captivity for about three weeks now they were kidnapped. Their march caused traffic gridlock on the ever-busy Azikiwe road, Port Harcourt. The protesters carried placards that bore different messages like: “Bring Back Our Girls”; “She Deserves to be at Home , Not in Sambisa Forest”; “Sarah Zabu Wala, 18 years, wants to be a Doctor because of poor maternal health Care. She deserves to be Free!!!” and “Borno Elders, Federal Govt, All Parties Involved, Bring Back Our Girls.” Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mr. Anyakwe Nsirimovu said they were at Government House to remind the state Governor, Hon. Chibuike Amaechi that “our girls are still missing.” Nsirimovu who is also the Executive Director of the Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (IHRHL), Port Harcourt lamented that the federal government has been prevaricating on the abduction of the girls saying that “we have seen motion, we have not seen movement.” While asking Amaechi to reach President Goodluck Jonathan to rescue the girls, the executive director of IHRHL, also stated that “we are not going to sit back anymore until our girls are rescued.” Going further, Nsirimovu urged the federal government to provide jobs for the teeming youths in the country, provide infrastructure and secure lives and property to curb all these criminality. In a protest letter addressed to the President and titled “we are worried and afraid, too scared to let this Nation slip into chaos” which was read out at the venue, the group expressed concern that “the labours of our heroes past” are slipping off. The letter which was signed by the Convener of Open City Africa, Mr. Perez Nekabari Tigidam, also
of the protesters, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. George Feyii who condemned the abduction of the girls also assured them that “this government will take your message to the federal government.” Feyii who stood in for the governor said that it is the responsibility of the government to protect lives and property hence, the Rivers state government takes that duty seriously.
Govt cautious on pension managers
Continued from page 1 necessitated his personally receiving them to enable him listen to them and ask questions where necessary to enable him form an informed opinion. He revealed that before the passage of the pensions Acts, the government was solely the risk bearer, saying that the new scheme, if properly and efficiciently implemented, civil servants and the government would be better for it thereby reducing the incidences of payment of pensions.
Mr. Jerry Obazele said he is pleased with the operations of SIGMA pensions, saying that from the profile presented, the company looks credible, assuring the state government would partner with it. Earlier, the Director, SIGMA pension, Chief Cletus Imasuen said they were in the state to explore possible areas of partnership with the State Government in the management of the civil servants pension. Chief Cletus Imasuen told the Head of Service that his company has been in
Chibok: France
to assist in rescue operation
Continued from page 1 instructed … to put the (intelligence) services at the disposal of Nigeria and neighbouring countries,” Reuters quoted Fabius as saying to lawmakers. “This morning he asked us to contact the Nigerian president to tell him that a specialised unit with all the
means we have in the region was at the disposal of Nigeria to help find and recover these young girls.” Boko Haram kidnapped more than 200 schoolgirls last month and has threatened to sell them into slavery. “In the face of such ignominy France must react. This crime cannot be left unpunished,” Fabius said.
operation since 2005 with over 600,000 contributors from over seven states and private orgaizations. Mr. Ibrahim Balarabe, Chief Marking Officer who spoke on behalf of the Director, assured the state government that it has what it takes to work with it. At the courtesy call was the Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Central Administration, Mr. E. T Idahosa; Permanent Secretary Directorate of Establishments, Training and Management Services, Mr. Omorogbe Olaye and Directors.
Mr. Igbaekemen Jerry Obazele, Head of Service, Edo State
Gov Oshiomhole tasks NOA on security Continued from page 1 assured the NOA delegation that the state government would continue to partner with the agency as it disseminates information to the people. The State Director of NOA,
Mrs. Magdalene Umunnah said the visit was among other reasons to appreciate the governor for the achievements so far recorded by his administration in the drive to
Cashless Policy: CBN,
YOLA - The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and NIGCOMSAT are drafting a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to provide effective Internet services to fast-track the cashless policy introduced by the apex bank. Mr. Aaron Yaduma, Head of CBN’s Shared Services, disclosed arrangement at the ongoing cashless policy sensitisation embarked by the CBN in Yola on Wednesday. Yaduma said the development was aimed at transforming national financial services into all
rehabilitate and transform public infrastructure and grow the economy of the state. The NOA state Director also presented gift items to the state government.
NIGCOMSAT drafts MoU on internet provision areas of the country and to ensure prompt security in the sector. “Discussion was entered into with NIGCOMSAT with the view to exploring other alternatives to the available GPRS network being used for the deployment of point of sells terminals (POSs). “In view of the development, a Memo of Understanding has been drafted for NIGCOMSAT
to provide Wi-Fi hotspots in the 774 local government areas,” Yaduma said. He said a pilot service was conducted in six states across the country and the concept had proved to be successful. Yaduma said the apex bank had planned to use Post Offices as agent centres for cashless transaction and other financial activity in order to leverage on existing assets.
Banks witness low patronage, offices shut
WEF:
ABUJA - Most commercial banks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) witnessed low patronage of customers due to the directive of the Federal Government to close government offices and schools. However, most customers were not sure that the banks would be opened for business, following the Federal Government’s directive. President Goodluck Jonathan had directed that government offices, schools and private offices with large work force within the FCT be closed from May 7 to May 9. The president gave the directive to ensure security within the FCT during the ongoing meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on Africa holding in Abuja. Our correspondent, who visited commercial banks within the FCT, sighted no fewer than 15 customers at the various banks at different transaction units. Some of the banks visited were First Bank Nig. Plc., Zenith Bank, Guarantee Trust bank, United Bank for Africa, Diamond Bank, Ecobank and Stanbic IBTC Bank within FCT. Among all the banks visited, it was observed that UBA only opened the back entrance to the bank while Stanbic IBTC was closed to customers. It would be recalled other banks visited had not more than two to three customers at different transaction points.
At the GTB, a customer, Mrs. Stella Amedu said she was not aware the bank would open today for operations, saying that she had to call her account officer before coming to the bank. “I am a business woman and have some money from my sales of yesterday which I came to deposit at the bank. “I had to call my account officer who assured me the bank will be opened that is why I came to the bank,’’ Amedu said. At the First Bank in Area 3 which was usually very crowded, it was noticed that only three customers were seen making transactions at the time of the visit. A customer at the First Bank, Mr Atsaka Oduen, said he usually patronised the branch and had never seen the banking hall as scanty as it was today. “I always use this branch for my transaction because it is close to my office. The bank is always very crowded with people and I have never seen it scanty like this before. “I think the reason why it is so is because most offices have been shut down due to the World Economic Forum holding in Abuja,’’ Oduen said. An official at the UBA bank, who spoke on condition of anonymity said the bank would be closed at 3 p.m. due to the holidays. However, reports from the subsurbs of the city said that normal banking services were going on with many witnessing many customers.
FUGAR -The wife of the former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief (Mrs.) Louisa Oghiadomhe, has lauded the First lady, Dame Patience Jonathan for initiating the Women for Change and Development Initiative, saying it has further helped to lift Nigerian women to limelight aside from transforming their lives. Mrs. Oghiadomhe made the assertion at her investiture as grand patron of the Edo North Chapter of the NGO in Edo State. She noted that it takes a lot of foresight and self denial to conceptualize such a worthy cause and hailed the first lady for using that platform to touch lives on a magnificent way, adding she will be most remembered, as someone who used her privileged position to elevate the status of women in a largely traditional society. Mrs. Oghadomhe recalled some of the benefit via the NGO, one of which she highlighted as the 35 percent
affirmative policy on women, noting such steps will go a long way in not only to redress the plight of women but also break gender related barriers. The colourful ceremony which took place at Fugar, the headquarters of Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State attracted women across the senatorial district. Among them were 3 Edo State former Women Affairs Commissioner from the District, Ambassador Shifau Inn Umoru, Chief (Mrs) Inumidu Idehen and Mrs. Usena Malik, Hajia Mero Momoh, Chairperson Elders Council of the NGO, the Liaison Officers of the NGO in 6 Local Government Areas of the district. Earlier, the Edo North Senatorial Liaison Officer of the Women for Change and Development, Hajia Adizat Umoru said the investiture is a sign that the roles Mrs. Oghiadomhe is playing in the upliftment and well being of women in Edo North did not go unnoticed.
Mrs Oghiadomhe eulogises Dame Jonathan
APC fixes Monday for State Congress
Continued from page 1 we are set for its peaceful conduct on Monday. “The national secretariat of the party had fixed Monday as deadline for the conduct of all congresses across the federation,” he said. On the recent defection of some members from the party to the opposition, Erhahon
described the defectors as “bad heads” in the party. He said their action was to give the APC a bad name, adding that their defection would not have negative effect on the party. “We are happy that those who are giving us bad name have left. Their action will not have negative effect on the party.”
News Mr. Obaseki For Burial
Deputy Chief Of Staff Appreciates Sympathisers For Abducted School Girls By MARTIN ERHARUYI BENIN CITY –The Deputy Chief of Staff to Edo state Government, Mr. Steven Idehenre has commended sympathetic Citizens of Edo state over their peaceful rally calling for the released of the school girls abducted in Chibok. Mr. Idehere made the commendation in Government House, Benin City while addressing members of a Non Governmental Origination (NGO). He commended the NGO for joining other Nigerians to show concern over the plight of the abducted girls, while joining the crusade to collectively fight insecurity and inhuman activities in Nigeria. According to him, “This is our country, it is for us all, we must collectively fight insecurity in the country”. He urged the NGO to
remain calm, following the federal government promises to rescue the girls and end insurgency in the country. Speaking with The Nigerian OBSERVER, leader of the NGO, Mrs. Preye Benedicta Obozuwa said that the two days rally with the theme: “Bring back our girls” was to express their displeasure over the abduction of the Chibok school girls and other such practices in Nigeria. She described the abduction as a violation of the fundamental Human Right” and causing pains to mothers in the country.
Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Egberanmwen Odubu (6th right) in a group photograph with officials of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Edo State, during a courtesy call to Government House, Benin City yesterday.
EDSOGPADEC Assures Communities Of Devt
URHEHUE (Orhionmwon) – Oil and Gas producing Communities in Edo State have again been assured of governments commitment to leave no stone unturned in the quest to bring development to their doorstep.
This assurance was made yesterday at the 2014 Needs Assessment/Sensitization Conference and study Tour of Orhionmwon Local Government Area held by the Board and Management of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Area Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) with stakeholders and Opinion
Acting General Manager, Bendel Newspapers Company Limited (BNCL), publishers of Observer titles, Pastor Monday Aigbe and Oghogho Ogiesewu, younger sister of the later Editorial staff of BNCL, Mr. Kester Osazee Ogiesewu who died on Sunday May 4, 2014 when the management of the company paid a condolence visit to the family yesterday. PHOTO: OSADEBAMWEN SUNDAY
Defection ’ll Not Affect APC BENIN CITY-The Interim Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Comrade Godwin Erhahon said the recent decision of some persons to resign their membership of APC in the state wile not in anyway affect the fortune of the party in future elections in Edo state. He made the remake yesterday in Benin City in a chat with newsmen. Comrade Erhahon described the number of those who left the party as insignificant as to affect the
fortunes of APC in Edo state in future elections He pointed out that those who have left are “ Seasonal birds” and however pointed out that some of those who were said to have left APC have realized that they were being deceived by those who are out to feather their nest. According to him “we are in touch with very many of them who believe that they were being deceived” and that they return to APC. The publicity secretary observed that the recent decision of some persons to
leaders in the area. Speaking at the Meet-thePeople-Tour held in Urhehue Customary Court, one of the newly constructed projects by EDSOGPADEC, Chairman of the Commission, Barrister Vincent Uwadiae, said the yearly event by the commission was designed to have a first hand information on Opinion of the beneficiaries of the numerous projects executed by the commission, the standard of the projects, the demeanor of the contractors and consultants handling them well as the relevant or otherwise of the projects to the benefiting communities. Barrister Uwadiae who added that the forum was also designed for the communities to make fresh requests for more projects further assured that every project already
Late Mr. Thomas Obaseki
BNCL Mgt Visits Late Staff Pastor Aigbe, while BENIN CITY - The Acting commiserating with the family Family General Manger of Bendel over the loss, noted that the Newspapers Company Limited (BNCL), publishers of The OBSERVER titles, Mr. Monday Aigbe yesterday led management staff of the
- Publicity Secretary
leave APC in Edo state would enhance the fortune of the party in the state, stressing that, “people who have been making unity and peace impossible within APC are being forced out by super-natural forces” Comrade Erhahon emphasized that, “we are not afraid of what is going to be the consequence, because in less than three, four months, Edo people will begin to realize that APC is better now”. He accused those who are leaving the party of not availing themselves of the established structures and
commenced would be completed within the lifespan of his administration. Reeling out the catalogue of projects already completed as well as those ongoing, the member representing Orhionmwon Local Government Area in the board of EDSOGPADEC, Hon Fidelis Okunzuwa, thanked the Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the gathering, made up of representative of the Oba of Benin to the occasion, Chief Osayomoanbo Osemwengie Erothe Edoba Uokhae of Benin Kingdom, the Enigie, youths, the Community Development Associations of the 34 communities represented at the event for creating the enabling environment for EDSOGPADEC to record such success in the development of the local government area.
BENIN CITY-The families of Obaseki – Ogbedeoyo and Amayo have announced the final burial ceremony of their father, grandfather brother and uncle, Late Mr. Thomas Idelegbagbon Dedekuma Obaseki who passed on in June 1979 at the age of 56 years. He is survived by five children and many grand children. The children include Mr. Nosa Obaseki, Mrs. Mabel Imade Adeloye, Miss Kate Osarieme Obaseki, Mrs. Dorothy Idehen and Miss Osarumwense Obaseki. A statement by Mr. Nosa Augie Obaseki indicated that the burial ceremony commences today May 8, 2014 with family rites. Tomorrow, Friday May 9, 2014,there would be social activities at No 4C Dawson Lane, off Mission Road, Benin City.
mechanisms of APC to redress grievances, adding that they had already made up their minds to leave the party if they don’t achieve their selfish aims. The state APC publicity secretary expressed the hope that in no distant time, the executives of the party would be in place at all levels in the state. He therefore appealed to APC faithful in the state to remain calm, urging them not to be disturb by the actions of those who do not mean well for the party in Edo state.
company on a condolence visit to the family of the Late Staff of Editorial department of the Company, Mr. Kester Osazee Ogiesewu who died in Benin City on Sunday. They were received by his junior sister, Oghogho Ogiesewu, their mother, Madam Alice Ogiesewu and his only son, Master Iyobosa Ogiesewu. Oghogho told the BNCL management that prior to Kester’s death, he was admitted in an hospital but was later discharged when his condition improved. She described her late brother as hardworking and highly committed to duties and thanked the BNCL management for identifying with the family during the trying period.
death of Kester is an irreparable loss which the company would find it difficult to contend with. He described Kester as one of the most reliable and intelligent staff of the company who do their work with all diligence. The General Manager however urged the family to be consoled by the fact that Kester lived an eventful life and therefore prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss. In the BNCL management team were the AGM Marketing, Citizen Kola Okhaku, Commercial Service Manager, Mr. Last Osagiede; Advertising Manager, Mr. Sunny Airhueghian and the News Editor, Andy Egbon.
South South Traffic Rules Violation
Ministry Impounds Coca Cola Truck
L-R: Hon. Philip Shaibu, Majority leader, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Foly Ogedengbe, Rt. Hon. Uyi Igbe, Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly and Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, Chairman, Committee on Youth and Information waiting to recieve members of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council during the union’s road walk to the House to observe World Press Freedom Day on Monday. Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.
BENIN CITY – Edo State Ministry of Transport has impounded a truck belonging to Coca Cola Bottling Company due to its road unworthy status. The Truck, which is laden with products of the beverage company, was impounded in the commercial nerve centre in Benin City yesterday with the driver asked to drive the vehicle to the premises of the ministry. During inspection of the trunk by the State Commissioner, Ambassador Osobosa Omo-Ojo accompanied by the Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO), Mr. Anthony Aimufua and other officials, it was discovered that the truck had no rear lights; bad side doors as their handles and keys were not in place and with worn out tyres.
Medical Practitioner Warns AgainstUnregulated Intake Of Local Herbs
LAGOS – Dr. Tosin Bewaji of Gold Cross Hospital in Lagos yesterday advised Nigerians to avoid too much intake of local herbs to prevent renal failure and other related diseases. Bewaji told newsmen in Lagos that regular consumption of herbs had more adverse health implications than benefits. He said that herbs derived from vegetables were rich in folic acid, vitamins and fiber which helped to move the bowels and de-congest the gastro-intestinal system. “A couple of drugs are derived directly from plants. For instance, quinine and chloroquine are derived from plants which show that herbs have medicinal values. “The adverse effects start with the way herbs is being taken unlike the normal pills that have been studied to know the appropriate dosage. “It is important to take appropriate dosage of any pill because every drug is a potential poison, including herbs. “Even if the herb is of any benefit, it should be at a certain dose range, “ Bewaji said. He said that herbs contained toxin, a poisonous substance
produced within living cells or organism. Bewaji said that people, who took too much herbs, were prone to having renal failure and liver disease. “It is the liver’s job to detoxify bad things in the body, but when it is overloaded, the liver can no longer cope and it
leads to liver failure. “The kidney excretes waste products from the body, but so much waste, which consists of toxic materials from the herbs taken, could shut down the kidney. “When the kidney is shut down, there will be failure to adequately filter waste
BENIN CITY – The Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on (Riot Security Control) and Chairman, Akugbe Ventures Limited, Comrade Tony Kabaka Adun, has warned those behind the sponsor of the deadly insurgent, Boko Haram to desist from the act in order to save the courty from disintegrating. Comrade Adun, who is popularly known and addressed as “Tony Kabaka” in the business and social circles, made this known to journalists in his office in Benin City recently, while reacting to the spate of insecurity in the country, and particularly made reference to the recent bomb blast at a motor park at Nyanyan, a suburn of Abuja City where thousands of persons were killed on two occasions. He described the recent abduction of one hundred and
eighty-nine female students of a school in Chibok town in Borno State and the killings of innocent Nigerians in the two bomb blasts as very unfortunate and disheartening. The APC leader in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State posited that with this ugly trend that has rocked the country, the purpose of amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates by our foremost colonial master would have been defeated as Nigerians of well over two hundred and fifty ethnic groups were joined as one. Speaking further, the peace Ambassador enjoined all Nigerians to be security alert and urged them to report any suspicious movement of strange persons to the security agencies. Comrade Adun, who flayed the call for the resignation of the president and Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces, Dr.
products from the body, which increases fluid in the body and leads to swelling,” he said. Bewaji also identified severe i nfections as part of the disadvantages of too much intake of herbs. “Another health implication is infection caused by micro
organism introduced from these herbs. One can also be infected from what people use in mixing the herbs. “Substance like cow urine is known as a cheap cause of renal failure, ‘ but in some parts of the world, people use it to mix their herbs. “Some people don’t boil it well and organisms grow inside it when it has been kept for too long, ‘’ the medical practitioner said.
While the doors were being held to the body of the truck with iron rods, the bonnet and bumper were tied together with the truck lacking dash board. Commenting after inspecting the truck, the Chief VIO, said it is obvious that the vehicle was not safe for both driver and other road users thereby making it unroad worthy. He advised the company to repair its trucks before allowing them to ply the road.
Church Ends Revival Programme
BENIN CITY-The Four day revival Service of the New Benin Baptist Church, Benin City which began on Sunday ended yesterday. The Revivalist, Bishop Emma Ufuah in a sermon told the congregation to come closer to God so as to get victory over enemies who abound everywhere. Speaking on the Topics, “This door must open for me” and “Jealousy”, he told the congregation that an open door could be a door of progress, increase in life, grace to excel, resounding success, breakthrough or victory.
Insecurity: Comrade Tony Adun Cautions Against Disintegration
his continuous supports to consolidate in the party achievements.
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, FCFR, because of the insecurity, noted ostensibly that Mr. President has creditably done well to appraise him. He described Mr. President as a man of wisdom, whose wealth of experience in administration was attributed to his God-fearing dispositions. He said that the slow action of Mr. President towards forcefully invading the crises prone areas is a practical demonstration of his features as a true democrat and urged every Nigerian to support and cooperate with him to actualize his dreams of transforming Nigeria to a greater height. The Chairman of Akugbe ventures who berated the critics of the recent local and ward congresses of the APC across the state has praised the
Rt. Hon. Uyi Igbe, Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly (right) meets Comrade Desmond Agbama, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council, shortly after the Union’s road walk to the Parliament during the 2014 World Press Freedom Day for Journalists in Edo State on Monday. Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.
pragmatic effort of the governor in restoring loss of hope in Edo State politics, just as he urged all aggrieved members of APC in the state to bury the hatchet for the purposes of winning subsequent elections in the state. He thanked his party faithful in Oredo Local Government Area for conducting themselves in a peaceful manner during the last local government and ward congresses and assured them of
Comrade Tony Kabaka Adun,
Enabulele Igbinoba Installed Odionwere
AIHUOBABEKUN – Pa Enabulele Igbinoba was on Saturday, May 3, 2014 installed as the Odionwere of Aihuobabekun village in Ovia North East Local Government area of Edo State. The colourful installation ceremony was graced by sons and daughters of the community who expressed joy that they now have a new Odionwere. Speaking during the enthronement ceremony, Pa Igbinoba thanked the people of Aihuobabekun for the singular honour done to him and promised that he would strive to put smiles on their faces. He said that as a recognized farmer and rural technocrat, he would use his new position to enhance the socio and economic development of the community. The new Odionwere expressed gratitude to the Oba of Benin for his fatherly role in the kingdom and for his regular peace initiatives which have helped to guarantee peace in Edo State. He appealed to the Chairman of Ovia North East local
government council to come to the aid of the community with regards to the maternity centre which he noted, was already in a serious state of dilapidation. Pa Igbinoba solicited the cooperation of the youths and the ACDA in order to move the community forward. While expressing his appreciation to the ACDA, youths as well as men and women of the community for his successful enthronement as the 14 th Odionwere of Aihuobakekun Community, he warned that no one should take laws into his or her hands while all illegal collections should stop forthwith.
Mr. Enabulele Igbinoba
South/South FG May Extend State Of Emergency
Driver, The Vine Kiddies School bus, Mr. Abu Sunday (left), fielding questions on his encounter with unknown gunmen who hijacked the school bus he drives at Nyanya in Abuja on Tuesday. With him are Force Public Relations Officer, Mr. Frank Mba (middle) and the Executive Director of the school, Mrs. Temitayo Fola-Kolade.
ABUJA President Goodluck Jonathan has said that he was consulting on the possibility of extending the state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States. The President, in a Presidential Media Chat in Abuja, added that the emergency rule was effective in containing insurgency contrary to claims in certain quarters. He said the reason behind the state of emergency was not to suspend the democratic setting, including the affected state governors and the legislators.
He added that the emergency rule was also not intended to launch a full scale war in the affected states because there must be rule of engagement. Jonathan said the emergency rule had helped to facilitate search for illegal weapons and protect security agents against prosecution. He added that those who were against its extension took the position out of frustration that terrorism had not stopped in the affected states since its declaration. Jonathan explained that the security agencies had done creditably well in fighting terrorism. He stressed that terrorism “is not getting worse in the country’’, because the security agencies had helped to curtail its frequency compared to
when it started. He decried the condemnation of security personnel adding that they needed timely information to aid their operations. The President said Nigeria’s security agencies were capable of curtailing insurgency and that government was working hard to equip and improve their capacity. “I have just approved the request for recruitment of more personnel and building capacity.’’ Jonathan said government was taking steps to address the challenge of illegal immigrants who were alleged to be behind terrorism in the country. He said government was being careful in order not to go against the ECOWAS Convention on Free Movement of Persons and goods and other related international conventions.
Trado-Medicalist Lauds FG Over Recognition By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM
Parent withdrawing her children from The Vine Kiddies International Academy, Nyanya after unknown gunmen hijacked the school’s bus in Abuja on Tuesday.
DELTA- ISUMPE- A Tradomedical doctor, Chief Palmer Oyenyen of Isumpe (Utagba-unor) in NdokwaWest Local Government Area of Delta State, has expressed gratitude to the federal government for recognition granted to the National Association of Nigeria Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP) and appealed to the government to extend micro- credit facilities
NGO Donates Wheelchairs To Physically Challenged
AGENEBODE (EDO) - A Lagos-based Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), Shifaah Foundation, donated 30 wheelchairs to persons with disabilities in Etsako East Local Government Council, Edo. The foundation also rendered free medical services, HIV counselling, treatment of Hepatitis, Diabetic patency and also distributed insecticidetreated bed nets to the people of the area. Presenting the donation, the Coordinator of the foundation, Dr Tijani Oseni, said that the gesture was to ease the problems faced by persons with disabilities in the area. “The goal of the organisation is to make the physically impaired people in the area become self-reliant. “The free medical services is to contribute to the development of healthcare delivery in the area.’’ Oseni urged government to give opportunities to the persons with disabilities as well as a
legislation that would protect them from all forms of marginalisation. He urged the society to always show compassion towards the plight of persons with disabilities
and advised residents of the area to make good use of the free
healthcare services to improve their well-being Mr Aliu Inipodi, a beneficiary,
thanked the organisation for the kind gesture. “I thank Shifaah Foundation for the support given to us and we will always remain grateful to them,’’ he said.
Former First Lady Urges Prayers For Abducted School Girls
KATSINA - Former First Lady, Hajiya Turai Yar’adua, has urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the immediate release of the abducted schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno. She made the call in Katsina at the late President Umaru Yar’adua’s Memorial Lecture entitled: “An Evaluation and Contributions of Gov Umaru Musa Yar’adua’s Educational Development in Katsina State.” Yar’adua, who condemned the abduction, said that Nigerians should continue to pray to Almighty God to rescue the innocent girls and return them to their parents. She also urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the peace,
unity and stability of the country. The former first lady said that her late husband was passionate about the peace, unity and corporate existence of Nigeria. She described her late husband
as ‘‘a practical leader who wanted peace in the entire country, Umaru was a humble, loving and caring husband with great love for the nation’’.
In his remarks, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Munzali Jibril, also described the late President as ‘’a humble leader, honest and exemplary leader’’. Jibril recalled that the late
to traditional doctors to enable them expand their scope of operation. Chief (Dr.) Oyenyen, who is the chairman tradomedical doctors in Isumpe Utagba – Unor said he has been practicing tradomedical works for over 40 yrs. He called on all his colleagues and orthodox doctors to look beyond their professions for knowledge acquisition, adding that looking beyond their professions would make them more versatile and equip them to face challenges and make a difference. He advised them to always strive hard to acquire knowledge and update their skill in other to respond positively to both current and future challenges in health care delivery. Chief (Dr) Oyenyen advised INEC and the electorate to work together to stop electoral malpractice and to bring perpetrators to book. He also called on well meaning Nigerians to come out to exercise their franchise.
FRSC Boss Cautions Drivers
By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM State. During the courtesy visit, the THE Federal road Safety Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM) Corps (FRSC) Commanding Neobong Akpabio expressed his Officer of Zone 5 Benin, Delta profound gratitude for the cordial Anambra State, Assistant Corps relationship between his (FRSC) Marshal Nseobong Akpabio, has men in Agbor and the management identified with the management of the Central Hospital Agbor. of Central Hospital, Agbor, Delta He commended management
of Central Hospital Agbor for their assistance in area of saving people’s lives. He noted that since life is very precious, road users particularly, drivers should always use their seatbelts, avoid drinking or eating while driving, and should not make or answer calls while driving.
Chief Palmer Oyenyen
Lagos TUC Urges Speedy Passage Of PIB
Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos (left), condoling with the widow of the former Lagos State Governor, Sir Michael Otedola in Lagos on Tuesday.
LAGOS - The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) urged the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). The advice was given in a communiqué issued at the end of National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the congress and signed by its President and Secretary, Bobboi Kaigama and Musa Lawal, respectively. It reported that NEC-inSession was worried about the continued delay in the passage of the bill despite several pronouncements and directives by President Goodluck Jonathan. “The NEC expresses its
Association Tasks Governments On Public Libraries
LAGOS - The President, National Library Association, Alhaji Rilwanu Abdulsalami, has urged governments at all levels to rise up to their responsibilities in ensuring that public libraries across the country are well funded. Abdulsalami, made the remark in an interview on the side lines of a workshop at the opening of the 2014 International Book Fair at the University of Lagos. The workshop on the theme: “Emergence of Ebook and Changes in Librarianship”, is part of events set aside for the weeklong fair. According to the president, who is also the University Librarian, Federal University, Wukari in Taraba, said that though the current generation was tilting more to e-book resources, there is the need for the revival of the traditional hard prints. He said that the state of public libraries across the country was becoming an
issue of great concern not just for the purpose of reading but also for the classification, documentation and preservation of vital documents for posterity. “We need to wake up to our responsibilities in paying adequate attention to our libraries by way of funding. “There is no way we can neglect our public libraries all in the name of the emergence of the e-book. “We are saying that whether
we like it or not, the libraries remain the heartbeat of our quest for knowledge. “Should we allow them to die, it would then mean that we might not get to our destination as soon as we are looking forward to and this would place us miles apart with countries in other climes,” he said. Abdulsalami added that in as much as persons the world over were realising the advantage and potency of the
e-books, they must also take cognisance of the fact that the society cannot be completely free of the traditional hard prints. He noted that there must be a hybrid collection of both the e-book and the traditional prints, in order to attain maximum benefits. “Even the international media the world over still use hard print as at today and the Librarians, governments and
LAGOS - Rev. Fr. Maximilian Nwosu, Visiting Priest of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Ojo, Lagos, has called on parents to always promote unity among the family members. Nwosu made the call at a sermon on Sunday during a
mass to mark the Year of the Family in the church calendar. He bemoaned the recent spate of division among family members in the society, saying: “In the Bible, the union of marriage and family was first instituted by Jesus during the wedding feast in Galilee. “It is the original purpose of God for Christians to live
together in unity in line with biblical injunctions; but, in recent times, some families have relegated this plan of God.’’ He observed that some children saw their parents as visitors in the homes because such parents denied them the parental care they required.
Promote Unity At Home, Cleric Tells Parents
Terror Warning Inappropriate, Fashola IKEJA - Governor. Babatunde Tells US Fashola of Lagos State has in an email on May 2 that terror described as inappropriate the U.S. warning of an impending terror attack on two hotels in the state. The governor spoke with newsmen in Ikeja after handing over 100 patrol vans and 150 motorcycles to the state police command to enhance its operational efficiency. The governor said the warning was wrongly channelled and that it was capable of creating panic and confusion in the country. Fashola said the US should have followed due diplomatic process by sharing such privileged information with the home government, rather than making it public. The reports state that the US Embassy in Nigeria had claimed
other stakeholders must key into this development and seek a means of ensuring that both the e–book and the hard print compliment each other for effective services. “We cannot afford to overlook the importance of the traditional prints and therefore, it is the duty of our librarians to also make themselves relevant by ensuring that they push for its sustenance and also get owners of these libraries to be positive about its development,” he added.
discontent over the lack of political will being exhibited by the National Assembly over the delay in the passage of the bill since it has long undergone all the appropriate inter-agency and legislative processes,’’ it said. The congress urged President Jonathan to further intervene with a view to breaking all the impediments affecting his speedy assent to the bill. It stressed that “its passage will bring relief to the industry and help boost the nation’s economy’’. The union urged the Federal Government to ensure that funds were released for implementation of projects in the oil and gas sector. It also stressed that the “the growth and development of the sector has been at the lowest ebb’’. The communiqué called on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive steps by fulfilling its own part of the agreement on the stalled projects some of which it said were over 10 years. It, however, decried the state of insecurity in the country and urged governments at all levels to devise better and appropriate security and intelligence gathering strategies to combat it.
groups were planning an attack on the Sheraton Hotels in Lagos. “There is no further information regarding the timing and method of the attack. “US citizens are cautioned to avoid the hotels at this time,” said the embassy’s e-mail advisory. But Fashola said: “I think that there are channels of communication and information of that type should be shared without creating panic. “And I think that citizens of all nationals can be protected without throwing a cat among pigeons. “I will hope that we are more circumspect in the way we share information and that our intentions are noble.
He said: “The unity of any family largely depends on the woman who is duty bound to nurture peace and promote love in the home. “However, some women by their conduct, propelled chaos in the family by showing disloyalty to their husbands. “Unity is an integral part of family living and its
management lies in the hands of the mother of the home.’’ He advised families to shun division and urged children to honour their parents to reap the blessings of God. The highpoints of the celebration included candlelight session and renewal of baptismal promises to God by the parishioners.
L-R: Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Information, Lateef Raji, Author of the Book, Mac Durugbo, Asoju Oba of Lagos, Sir Molade Okoya-Thomas, Lagos Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke-Orelope Adefulire, representative of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Mr. Segun Ayobolu and Special Adviser Media to Lagos Governor, Alhaji Hakeem Bello, at the launch of a Book, “Four Years of Actualizer” in Lagos on Tuesday.
Across The Nation Stakeholder Advocates Establishment Of Grazing Reserve
Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo, inspecting a Guard of Honour at a ceremony to mark Imo Freedom Day and official reception of 25,000 ‘Youth Must Work’ project in Owerri on Tuesday.
KADUNA - Mr. Sani Na’Allah, the Acting Director, Livestock Services, Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture, has identified grazing reserve development as a panacea to the reduction of security challenges in the state. Na’Allah, in an interview with newsmen in Kaduna, said that the measure would improve livestock production. “This will reduce the issue of attacks allegedly done by the herdsmen and also reduce security challenges to an extent.’’ The official said it would also enable the government to enlighten and mobilise them to adopt modern livestock production methods.
Terror Attacks Affecting National Conference - Delegate
ABAKALIKI - Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, a delegate to National Conference from Ebonyi, said that the terror attacks in parts of the country was affecting the conference. Ogbu told newsmen in Abakaliki that the attacks in Abuja in particular, had unsettled members and disrupted proceedings. He said that some delegates had even advocated the suspension of the conference
till the situation normalised but majority felt it would be to the credit of the terrorists. “Many felt that the terrorists will presume that they have succeeded in disrupting governance in the country as it will be a great disservice to the country to suspend the conference. “All the delegates are concerned about the development. The women in
LAFIA - Governor. Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State said that the state was now ready to receive President Goodluck Jonathan on May 10. Al-Makura said this in Lafia when he inspected some sites preparatory to the
The governor said the inspection was meant to ensure that the president’s visit to the state was very successful. Reports state that the governor, in company of the commissioner of police in the
one occasion wore all black attire to the proceeding to show concern over the development,” Ogbu said. He explained that the delegates were equally unhappy about the abduction of school girls in Chibok, Borno, and contemplated sending delegates to the Presidency and National Assembly over it. The former deputy governor
advised Nigerians to understand the real situation on ground before casting aspersions on the government for insensitivity. “The people should understand that this is a guerilla warfare that is complex to deal with being an uncommon situation. “Any use of direct force will result in heavy casualties even on the part of the girls thereby
Nasarawapresident’s Ready To Receive Jonathan visit. during the president’s visit,’’
Widow, Brother Arraigned Defamation:
KADUNA - A widow, Hauwa Usman,30, and her brother, Idris Bakare, have appeared in a Kaduna Chief Magistrates Court’, charged with defamation. The widow resides at No. 9, Layin Rimi, Rafin Guza, Kaduna, while Bakare lives at No. 3, Layin Babayaro, Ungwan Dosa, Kaduna. Mr Sagir Salisu, the counsel to the complainant, Alhaji Abubarkar Jidda, told the court that sometime in January 2013, the accused went round Kaduna town spreading false story about Jidda. He said the accused went about saying that Jidda, who is an imam, tried to force Hauwa into marriage. Salisu further told the court that Hauwa was the wife of the complainant’s late brother, Usman Usman. He said Hauwa and Bakare
conspired to say that the complainant had been victimising her in unimaginable ways. According to the counsel, the offence contradicts Section 391 of the Penal Code. He also alleged that the accused had been fraudulently planning to sell the house bequeathed to Hauwa’s three children by her late husband. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge, and their counsel, Abbas Yahaya, applied for their bail. The presiding officer, Senior Magistrate Dogara Aliyu, granted them bail in the sum of N20, 000 each, with two sureties who must be residents of Kaduna metropolis. Aliyu adjourned the matter until June 9.
- Al-Makura
state, visited some police formations. Al-makura said that the visit to the police command was to ascertain the level of security arrangement put in place by the police for the president’s visit. “We are going round with security operatives in the state to look at places that could be used by the PDP
he said. The governor said that he was informed by the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) about the president’s visit to the state. Al-Makura said he had equally informed the PDP the level of preparation, especially with regards to the use of the Lafia township stadium currently being renovated.
worsening the situation,” he said. According to him, the root of the problem is not poverty or unemployment but the sponsorship of terrorism by some people to destabilise the polity. On the single tenure of six years, Ogbu said the agitation for it for the president was not the solution to the nation’s political problems but the awareness of politicians that no one had a monopoly of power. “The conference committee on political reforms is working to bring radical changes in the political sector to ensure equity and fairness. “Rulers should know that they may not be the best for such positions but their ascendancy was just by chance and God’s design. “They should be ready to serve the people sincerely and leave for other people to rule at the expiration of their office,” he said.
According to him, plans by government to develop grazing reserves and stock routes is a good development that will curtail the lingering crisis between cattle rearers and pastoralists. He advised that the government should provide dilapidated grazing reserves with modern facilities for fast and better development. Na’Allah also urged the government to look into the rehabilitation of grazing reserves across the country. He advised that the grazing reserve in the state be developed to some extent with a view to reduce to the barest, the conflict between pastorals and the farmers. Na’Allah said that developing grazing reserve with the needed facilities would make the cattle rearers settle in one place to avoid the issue of cattle rusting. He urged the government to encourage pastoralists to settle in one place and stop the traditional way of rearing because, “it is not the best way to develop fast. “If they are settled in one place, the livestock scientist can have easy access to the animals and the farmers to impact in them the modern method of rearing animals.” The stressed that if the modern method was applied, it would be more profitable for the economy of the country. He attributed the issue of cattle rustling to the fact that the animals are scattered, resulting to stealing and killing them. “But where the animals are settled, adequate security is there and all the facilities needed would be provided for the nation’s economy and security of the animals,” he said. Na’Allah said that modern animal production methods would help the pastoralists to utilise the little space available and keep the number of animals to a manageable size.
Executive Secretary, Gombe State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Arab Rukuje (right), with the Head, Department of Education and Social Development, Billiri Local Government Area, Malam Ibrahim Puma, presenting relief materials to victims of April 17 windstorm in Gombe State on Tuesday.
Abuja Mark, Northern Governors Mourn Oputa ABUJA - The Senate President, David Mark, has described the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, as the pathfinder who charted the road map for the nation’s judicial system. This is contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, in Abuja. Mark, who made this known when he paid tribute to the elder statesman, hailed the unquantifiable contributions of the late jurist to the economic and socio-political development of Nigeria. “He was one of Nigeria’s best and foremost judicial officers. His landmark judgments are eloquent testimonies to this. “He was a judicial officer per excellence. He remains a reference point on virtually all judicial matters. “Justice Oputa is unarguably a legal giant and he occupies a prominent chapter in the history of Nigeria, especially in the judiciary. “Nigerians and generations yet unborn owe him a debt of gratitude,’’ Mark said. The senate president counselled that the late Oputa’s legacy of selfless service, hard work, honesty, patriotism and professional excellence should be sustained by all, especially in the judiciary. He urged Nigerians, especially the Oputa family, to take solace in the fact that their patriarch lived an accomplished life worthy of emulation. Also, the Northern States Governors Forum, has expressed sadness over the death of Oputa, describing his death as saddening and painful. This is contained in a statement issued the Chairman of the forum, Governor Babangida Aliyu of Niger, in Minna. Aliyu said the death came at a time when his advice and guidance were required to consolidate the gains made in the nation’s judiciary. He described the late Oputa as the ‘Justice of Justices’.
Ekweremadu, Uduaghan Extol Oputa
‘Bring Back Our Girls’ Group demanding immediate rescue of abducted Chibok school girls in Abuja recently.
Missing Girls
Principal, Compol Give Conflicting Reports ABUJA - Officials of the Borno Government gave conflicting report about the number of girls that were abducted in Government Girls School Chibok. They gave this information at the Presidential villa during a meeting convened by the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan with women to know the actual number of girls abducted from the school. The Principal of the school, Hajiya Asabe Kwabura, said 395 girls registered for the exams before the attack on her school; 53 girls had returned while 223 were pending. “Since yesterday that I left the meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan, I was invited to the Police Headquarters. “We have received 53 girls but 223 are still missing. Some of the returned girls have also refused to continue with their examination due to fear.
Court Remands Tricycle the court that Mr. Nurudeen Rider Mohammed, of 14th Road, ABUJA - An Upper Area Court in Kado has ordered that a 29-year-old tricycle rider, Haruna Abdu, to be remanded in prison pending a formal bail application. Abdu, of 14th Road Corner shop, Gwarimpa Estate, Abuja, is charged with two counts of criminal trespass and attempt to commit a crime. The Presiding Judge, Malam Abubakar Sadiq, gave the order after the Prosecutor, Mr Salisu Mohammed, prayed the court to remand the accused. Mohammed said the accused was allegedly a habitual offender and would jump bail. Sadiq ordered the accused to get legal representation and adjourned the matter until May 22 for hearing of bail application. Earlier, Mohammed had told
Gwarimpa lodged a report against the accused at the Gwarimpa police station on April 29. Mohammed said the accused person trespassed into the complainant’s shop and attempted to steal provisions but was apprehended by security men. He said during police investigation, the accused confessed to have committed the crime. The prosecutor said the offence contravened the provisions of sections 348 and 95 of the Penal Code. If convicted, the accused is liable to seven years in prison or an option of fine or both. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the offence.
“Records of the students were burnt down during the rampage but I have a few on my laptop. I was on admission in Maiduguri, as a result of health challenges during the time of the attack “I am a diabetic patient, I went to Maiduguri for checkup. I usually go every two weeks. We only have night watchmen. “Chibok used to be a safe place before this incident.
“They came in around 11.30 pm, my daughter called and asked me to pray for them because there was trouble in the school. “The school sergeant, who is an ex-policeman, also called. “They told me that the insurgents asked for the store and broke into it. Before they reached the staff quarters, the teachers ran away. My granddaughter was
also abducted, her name is Dorcas Yakubu,’’ Kwabura said. The Commissioner of Police in the state, Alhaji Tanko Lawan said according to documents in his possession, 41 girls had returned and he was not sune of the number of those missing. “According to our documentation, 41 girls have been returned to their parents. The police did not at any time
converged on Abuja to review strategies in the fight and prevention of the virus. The reports state that the meeting is to validate the HIV National Prevention Plan. It will also develop a procedure for government and partners to follow in the prevention of HIV and AIDS. Mrs. Uduak Daniel, Programme Co-ordinator, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), told newsmen that the new strategies would come from contributions of stakeholders at various levels. “The difference between the last prevention plan and this one is that this will engage people at the community levels. “We got stakeholders to look at four thematic areas that we can look at whenever we are talking about HIV and AIDS prevention. “The improvement we have is that we work based on information not on projects that have been done but how the plan was used,” she said. Daniel said emerging issues in treatment, pre-exposure prophylaxis in HIV prevention and getting data of young people had been identified as a problem that needed to be addressed. She said the new strategies would also address the emerging issues and challenged in the prevention response of the virus. Mr. Yakubu Abubakar,
Director HIV and AIDS Control, Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV and AIDS, TB, Leprosy and Malaria commended new measures put in place to fight the virus. Abubakar said the previous prevention plan had so many disparities at the state and national level in terms of approach. He said the new major prevention approach now in Bauchi state was the participation of religious leader
at ensuring that couples know their HIV status before marriage. “It is a strategy to prevent transmission of the disease, so that the wife or the husband does not give his partner the virus,’’ he said. Also speaking, Dr Segun Oyedeji, HIV Prevention Specialist, Society for Family Health commended the new HIV preventive plan, adding that it would give a new direction to fight against the virus. Oyedeji said the plan was clear
Stakeholders To Review Strategies ABUJA - Stakeholders in HIV and AIDS prevention have For HIV/AIDS Prevention
ABUJA - The Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu, has described the death of a former Supreme Court judge, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, as “a sad and an unquantifiable loss’’. This is contained in a tribute issued by his Special Adviser (Media), Mr. Uche Anichukwu in Abuja. Ekweremadu said: “Nigeria has lost one of her brightest legal luminaries. He was an upright, courageous, intelligent, patriotic jurist and elder statesman. “He represented the finest era of the country’s judiciary and it is indeed a sunset for a legal icon and the nation will miss him surely. “We owe it to the memory of that golden era of the judiciary, which Justice Oputa represented, to engender a radical ethical and professional revival in our judicial system,’’ he said. The deputy senate president condoled with the family of the late Justice and the nation in general and prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the deceased. Also, Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta, has described late Oputa as an exceptional jurist who sacrificed his time, knowledge and energy for Nigeria and the rule of law. Uduaghan, in his tribute to the jurist in Asaba, said that Oputa lived a fulfilled life. He said that the legal profession and the entire country had lost an icon and would be affected by his demise. The governor said that the former Supreme Court justice was “fearless, bold and courageous” while protecting the rights of the poor, deprived and defenceless. Uduaghan said that the landmark judgments of the late eminent jurist had continued to stand the test of time. “His judgments have stood the test of time and like good wine are eternal epitaphs from which our laws draw inspiration and are admired. “The philosophy and wisdom behind his judgments make them almost infallible,” Uduaghan said.
L-R: Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Saleh Dunoma; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Dr. Jemila Shu’Ara and Supervising Minister, Dr. Samuel Ortom, during the inspection of facilities at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja recently.
Focus Pension Scams Galore: Is The Contributory Pension Scheme Immuned? By SYLVESTER AKELE
PENSION scams are not new around the world. One of the most celebrated pension scams in the UK was perpetuated by Robert Maxwell, a Czechoslovakian-born British media mogul and Member of Parliament (MP) who died mysteriously in 1991, in circumstances many believed was suicide and linked to his financial crises and pension scams. Maxwell, who rose from poverty to build an extensive publishing enterprise, was known to have misappropriated more than $1billion from his company’s pension funds to finance corporate expansion of his more than 400 corporate entities. When the companies failed, the funds were gone and pensioners were left in the cold. In Nigeria, the pension scam galore in the era of Defined Benefit Pension Schemes was staggering. Take a look at some of the reports and headlines: Six civil servants charged to court for their alleged complicity in the illegal diversion of N32.8 billion from the Nigeria Police Pension Fund between January 2009 and June 2011, Government officials in charge of pension funds in the country stole N237.9 billion through a syndicated and institutional corruption; Fraud and embezzlement in the management of pension funds, N159 billion in properties and cash recovered from pension fraudsters; N5.6 billion pension scam in Oyo State; N3 billion pension scam in Kano State and £2,204,814.18 belonging to PHCN Staff Pension Fund found in UK account and; Officer confesses before an Abuja High Court that he connived with others and stole N23 billion. The list of alarming headlines on pension scams in Nigeria is so much that if all the monies involved are totalled, it would probably rank as one of the biggest around the world. While Maxwell exploited the loopholes that enabled him to invest pension funds from his companies in phony and unprofitable companies destined for failure while he reaped the benefits, Nigerian pension scammers exploited the lax regulatory and legal environment for Pension Funds and either directly embezzled such monies by transferring them to their personal accounts or pretended also to be investing them. The callous acts contributed to the inability of many organizations not being able to fulfill their pension obligations to the pensioners. What followed in many cases were despair, frustration and death while the scammers smiled to the banks. There was obviously absence or failure of regulation of pension funds. Unfortunately also, the judiciary
may not have helped in ensuring strict punishment for convicted offenders when they were caught. According to the Vanguard Newspaper of January 29, 2013, “one of the eight civil servants accused of complicity in the illegal diversion of over N40 billion from the Nigeria Police Pension Fund confessed before an Abuja High Court that he connived with the others and stole only about N23
Mohammed Adoke, Minister of Justice
billion. He was sentenced to two years imprisonment with an option of a fine of N750,000. This was obviously a “joke masqueraded as a judicial proceeding.” While the Defined Benefit Pension Scheme that was prevalent in Nigeria before the enactment of the Pension Reform Act and the coming of the Pension Commission was fraught with fraud, many heaved a sigh of relief with the new dispensation of Contributory Pension Scheme. At least, it was expected that it would curb the corrupt tendencies of operators and pension managers, who were in most cases also staff of such organizations. Under the new dispensation, the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) Pension Custodians, Trustees and the organizations obviously find it
“In Nigeria, the pension scam galore in the era of Defined Benefit Pension Schemes was staggering. Take a look at some of the reports and headlines: Six civil servants charged to court for their alleged complicity in the illegal diversion of N32.8 billion from the Nigeria Police Pension Fund between January 2009 and June 2011, Government officials in charge of pension funds in the country stole N237.9 billion through a syndicated and institutional corruption; Fraud and embezzlement in the management of pension funds, N159 billion in properties and cash recovered from pension fraudsters; N5.6 billion pension scam in Oyo State; N3 billion pension scam in Kano State and £2,204,814.18 belonging to PHCN Staff Pension Fund found in UK account and; Officer confesses before an Abuja High Court that he connived with others and stole N23 billion. The list of alarming headlines on pension scams in Nigeria is so much that if all the monies involved are totalled, it would probably rank as one of the biggest around the world.”
difficult to commit fraud regarding pension funds. While the PFAs administer the pension plans, including the investments, the custodians keep the cash and the employees and organizations contribute to the pension funds on behalf of the workers. A fine division indeed. The Pension Commission regulates the pension fund administrators and issues the guidelines for the investment outlets for pension funds. My worry, however, is that the returns on pension fund investments may not be as good as one would expect. Investments in money market and capital market instrument have been quite good in the last few years. The stock market, for example, is reported to have returned 47.2 percent in 2013, the best performance since 2008 and the best in Africa. In 2012, the market returned 35.5 percent. Money market rates have been quite good. Treasury bills attract returns of average of 12.50 percent. Considering that asset allocation is in favour of government securities, money market instruments and unit trusts, I am deeply worried at the returns on pension fund investments by the PFAs, which have been negative in the last few years. The return profile of PFA active funds showed nominal return of 3.7 percent in 2011 from 11.64 percent in 2010. When inflation rate of 10.90 percent of 2011 is considered, it gives a real return of -7.16 percent for the year from -2.06 percent of 2010. The trend shows increases in negative returns. The 2012 and 2013 figures, by that analysis and from what I have heard, were worse. But an official of the National Pension Commission said that returns on pension fund investments had never been less than 10 percent except in 2008, when it dropped to 9 percent due to the global financial crisis. What the return profile of Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) indicates is that contributors to the Contributory Pension Schemes could be in for raw deals in future as they watch the erosion of their savings. Is this another scam in the offing? Are the Pension Commission guidelines adequate for protecting the fund and the contributions? At 2 to 3 percent of fees and other charges to pension funds in a N3.8 trillion pension fund industry with 5.7 million people enrolled in 2013; and fund growth driven by increased contributions there is more money coming for PFAs and pension custodians. This does not translate to more real money for contributors in future. There is no doubt that the funds will be depleted over time and the contributors, whose funds should actually grow from interest earnings, may find out that when they become qualified to draw from the schemes, returns on their investments have not been maximized. It is this area of returns on investment as well as the fees and charges to the funds that the Pension Commission needs to look at critically, to ensure that PFAs, Trustees and Custodians are not charging too many expenses to the funds. If the trends of negative returns continue, we may be having a new type of scam in our hands. Mr. Akele, CEO Soakel Consulting Ltd., wrote from Abuja.
Issues PRESENTLY, Nigeria operates a democratic system of leadership and the actors in the field of play on the corridors of power are politicians. The politician wanting to be a leader to help the society, are they acceptable to the people? Do the people have faith in their ability to lead them? If the above questions get positive answers, then the machinery provided by the law for those desirous of political position which is, election can then be used to attain leadership position. Suffice it to say that majority of our politicians today do not necessarily go through the processes stated above rather they foist themselves on the people or their political parties foist them on the masses. Leaders of political parties have continued to compound the problems Nigeria’s democracy is faced with. How do they decide who is best suited for an elective position among the party members? Do political party leaders through opinion polls even within the party find out who the people agitate for to represent them?, Are party ticket reserved for the most connected or highest bidders even if they are known to be highly corrupt? What
is commonly seen in most political parties today is persons of questionable character becoming flag bearers of political parties and members of the party who are not satisfied with such choices by the party leaders resigned themselves to the situation for fear of being left out in the scheme of things especially when the party achieves victory at the polls The success of democracy starts from the selection of candidates for election. Political leaders desirous of the nation’s growth and progress, should be patriotic enough to let the people’s will take prominence. Party decision must be people oriented and people directed. Constituencies are made up of people who truly know who the candidates or politicians seeking to represent them truly are. Let the people select their representatives and let the party leaders be sincere and confident enough to let the people’s interest prevail. If the selection process is right, half of the battle against electoral malpractice and irregularities would have been won. As for the masses, every bonafide citizen of Nigeria has the right to select and vote for
Politicians Versus By JOY MUSA
candidate of their choice. It is high time we look and think beyond party membership. People should take the bull by the horn and vote for
responsible candidates even if such a candidate bears the flag of a different political party. Nigerians should see election period as an avenue to responsibly and democratically vote into leadership candidates of high moral standing irrespective of party affiliation. Not until the masses prove to politicians that
the political power lies in their hands (masses) through their vote, the politicians will continue to play a fast one on the masses through every conceivable illegal
means. The masses hold the aces as such they can dictate and decide those who emerge as leaders. Politicians may have the finances to manipulate elections but the masses can use their vote to make irrelevant the actions of politicians, one’s vote is one’s right, one’s voice, and one’s future. Above all the
“Some other countries were once where we are today, but the people made a determined effort to cause a change in the political system and they did. Today the people of these countries and their countries are better for it. Nigerians and indeed Nigeria can also achieve the same feat. Let’s believe and make democracy work.”
Democracy
aforementioned ways by which politicians in the country could be made to toe the path of true democracy, is the most vital organ of
the general good of the nation, it is not meant to serve the selfish interests of selected few. NEC should be the hope
democracy in Nigeria and that is, the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC. As the name goes, INEC truly needs to be independent. Serving political leaders should not appoint those to head the commission by so doing the idea of “he who pays the piper dictates the tune” will not arise. As an umpire. INEC is bound by duty to Nigeria and humanity to be truly independent in the conduct of elections. It should not be seen as a tool in the hands of undemocratic politicians who go out of their way to manipulate their way into leadership. INEC is for
of the common man for good governance. Let any politician who desires to subvert the choice of the people, and be a clog in the wheel of progress, find a formidable and incorruptible force in INEC. Some other countries were once where we are today, but the people made a determined effort to cause a change in the political system and they did. Today the people of these countries and their countries are better for it. Nigerians and indeed Nigeria can also achieve the same feat. Let’s believe and make democracy work.
Ajuwaya Adding Value To Corps Members By ERUKUBAMI OMOLADE
NYSC Scheme
Enhancing Unity Of Nigeria THE National Youth Service Corps Scheme has come a long way and it has been able to stand the test of time, and above all, it’s still very much relevant in this present day or global era. The scheme has recorded remarkable achievements that are unquantifiable and these achievements have positively affected the fabrics of this great nation. One of the major achievements of the scheme is a good measure of mutual trust among Nigerians of diverse languages and cultures. NYSC in this present day has enhanced and promoted inter-ethnic marriages among the youths of this nation. Nigerian youths now move freely and reside permanently in states other than their own. Some areas of the country that used to lack certain manpower in the past, now enjoy such privileges since the inception of the NYSC. It should be recalled that the NYSC was conceptualized to foster unity among the populace in the National Youth Service Corps Programme and Nigeria at large. The
By ERUKUBAMI OMOLADE programme was brought to life by Genera Yakubu Gowon’s Military Administration in 1973 in order to address the major fallouts of the Nigeria Civil War (1967-1970). In a very simple and decodable language, the NYSC scheme was majorly put in place as a policy that could enhance the unity of the country. Although the scheme has it shortcomings or challenges, yet it has over the years succeeded in fostering unity in the country. As earlier mentioned, the NYSC scheme has achieved this great feat through few inter-tribal marriages, which ordinarily might not have taken place. Similarly, through various means of social interactions, a few of the corps members have been able to learn, speak and understand the languages spoken in their places of primary assignments or the host communities they are posted to. A living example is my humble self, I have been able to learn and understand some
wonderful Benin culture, language, and some of their festivals which I have been fortunate to witness. This great experiences have also been witnessed by some corps members who have been exposed to various customs and traditions of diverse parts of the country through the scheme. Unarguably, the scheme has over the years been a uniting factor in the country because it is good for national integration and cohesion. Barring the security challenges the nation is facing in some areas, the NYSC scheme still provides youth the opportunity to gain work experience, aids economic development by boosting the educational sector and above all, engenders national unity.
NYSC has not been without its ups and downs, with tales of killings and abductions of Nigerians circulating the news. But good things are always met with resistance and the NYSC scheme can boastfully be seen as a unifying factor in Nigeria. NYSC remains a true symbol of national unity, a bond of friendship formed during the service year, and the development it provides for the nation. The Federal Government must ensure that the NYSC scheme is sustained because of the great advantage it provides for the nation. In summary, the NYSC scheme is a surviving means of enhancing and appreciating our cultural and developmental diversities, for without this, our unity in the nearest future is never assured.
THE National Youth Service Corps Programme combines training in specific career skills, re-socialization and work experience to develop positive attitudes and values among corps members in the areas of self, work place (place of primary assignments), communities and nation. Professional association in Nigeria portray themselves as the needed training and bridge between the schools and the labour market. Attempts at salvaging the incidents for demands for Professional Membership Of registered, enacted and recognized Professional associations has made serving NYSC Corps members grasp any professional certification. Imagine a scenario where a Civil Service Commission in a State in Nigeria, an agent of employment for government (public service), place a fresh graduate accountant above his fellows on level 10 of the civil service salary cadre, because he or she possesses chartered certificate in Accounting. The value and respect corps members get when they acquire certificates in some of these professional courses is unquantifiable. The professional certificates give corps members an edge over their colleagues who do not possesses any of the professional certificate when trying to secure a job. During the three weeks orientation camping exercise of the NYSC, bells are sounded by professional bodies for corps members of the benefits of belonging to one professional bodies or the other. Notable amongst them are the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAN), Institute of Personnel Management (IPM), Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and many more.
“Unarguably, the scheme has over the years been a uniting factor in the country because it is good for national integration and cohesion. Barring the security challenges the nation is facing in some areas, the NYSC scheme still provides youth the opportunity to gain work experience, aids economic development by boosting the educational sector and above all, engenders national unity.”
It is to be noted that, before a corps member can be an associate member of any of the professional bodies, he or she must have successfully passed the body’s examination before he or she can be inducted as Associate member of the professional body. According to some great scholars, no knowledge they say is lost. Once a corps member has attained more knowledge from some of these professional courses, he or she will be able to handle things in a more economical method. The potential he or she will use in handling project won’t be compared to those that haven’t got the knowledge he or she has attained. The corps member would have improved his skill by learning new ones through the knowledge he must have received during the course of studying the professional course and this will enable him to be an effective educator. The professional course is a way of advancing corps members’ careers and developing useful knowledge and practical teaching skills. No matter the course one decides to put in for during the one year NYSC service, each professional course provides corps members with meaningful knowledge, useable skills, and recognized qualifications, because this will help in improving professional abilities and provide an effective output when it relates to job. Corps members should always remember that, having the right training at the right time can mean the difference between landing one of his or her first dream job. So, therefore, it is advisable for corps members to engage in rebuilding and advancing their intellectuals, through pertaking in professional courses that will single them out for greatness in the nearest future. Ultimately, the benefits of embarking in building one’s knowledge through some professional courses, is to have a well planned and successful future. Every corps member must aspire to advance in knowledge in order to attain and sustain a bright and rossy future that will be stress free.
Wildlife
Harnessing The Potential Of Nigeria’s Wildlife Parks
THIRTY years ago, Nigeria’s zoological gardens and parks were among the best in Africa. During that period, the University of Ibadan Zoological Gardens; the Yankari Game Reserves, Bauchi; the Jos Zoo and Wildlife Park and the Old Oyo National Park were the delight of tourists. Today, however, the story is somewhat different, as the country’s wildlife parks have suffered a lot of neglect due to factors such as poaching and poor funding. The management of the wildlife parks has not been able to replace aged and dead animals due to paucity of funds; while the cages of many zoological gardens across the country were empty with no animals. Mr Wale Odeyemi, the Head of South West National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, bemoaned the pathetic state of wildlife parks and zoological gardens across the country. “About 30 years ago, Nigeria’s zoological gardens were the best in Africa. “Nigeria’s zoological gardens were then a major revenue earner in the tourism industry. “The lack of maintenance of the animals has adversely affected major zoos across the country,’’ he said. Odeyemi said that inadequate budgetary allocations, lack of maintenance and illegal killing of animals were some of the major setbacks of the zoos. “Some states could not allocate enough money to maintain the animals. Therefore, the animals were not well fed and they eventually died,’’ he said. Odeyemi suggested that all tiers of government should make adequate budgetary provisions for the rehabilitation of existing zoos in their domains, while setting up new ones. Mr Yakubu Kolo, the Conservator of Kainji Lake National Park, New Bussa, Niger, noted that animals like elephants were fast disappearing from the parks. According to him, inadequate funding is the major factor responsible for the extinction of some animals in the parks. “Adequate funding is the key to adequate management of
wildlife conservation. “There is need to replace some of the animals that have gone into extinction at the Kainji Lake Park and other wildlife parks in the country. “The funds will also facilitate the transportation of animals from distant places to the parks. “It is, however, very important to make concerted efforts to stamp out poaching. “It is also important that water does not dry up in the parks during the dry season, while providing the types of food required by the animals,’’ he said. Besides, Kolo called for cooperation between the communities where wildlife parks were located and the management of the parks. He said that such collaboration would stop poaching and illegal trade in animal products such as elephant’s tusks that were used in the production of ivory. Kolo urged government to equip the rangers with adequate patrol vehicles and modern communications equipment to enable them to protect the parks efficiently. He also called for the training and re-training of the rangers to improve their skills in wildlife management. However, Mr Lanre Awoseyin, the National Coordinator, Nigerian Hotels Association, said that adequate wildlife conservation would boost tourism development and attract more tourists. He noted that Nigeria had eight national parks, unlike some African countries like Kenya and South Africa which had 52 and 56 games reserves respectively. Awoseyin underscored the need to improve wildlife conservation in Nigeria, as part of efforts to boost the country’s tourism potential. “Adequate funding of wildlife conservation would enhance its development, while generating more employment opportunities for the people. “Nigeria is naturally endowed to have good game reserves which could attract tourists and boost its economy, if properly funded and managed,’’ he said. Awoseyin, however, suggested that the activities of farmers, who had encroached deeply into the demarcated areas mapped out as game reserves, ought to be checked
BY CHINYERE OMEIRE
so as to preserve the existing reserves. He urged the government to educate farmers around game reserves to desist from bush burning because of its adverse
potential poachers, while saving the nation’s wildlife from extinction and making game reserves more viable. “The existing punishment,
effects on wildlife. “Apart from the economic benefits of a viable wildlife park, it also beautifies the environment and preserves nature, thereby attracting lovers of beauty and nature,’’ he said. Awoseyin stressed that as part of efforts to tackle the menace of wildlife poaching, the Federal Government should review the jail term for poachers from one month to five years. He said that such review would serve as a deterrent to
which gives an offender one month jail term with an option of fine, should be extended to five years jail term, just like what obtains in Kenya and South Africa,’’ he said. Awoseyin reiterated that the law prohibiting poaching of wildlife was not stringent enough, adding that tougher sanctions ought to be imposed on offenders. He also noted that Nigerians’ taste for “bush meat’’ had somewhat encouraged poachers to continue illegal
killing of wildlife. He underscored the need to regulate and reduce the consumption of “bush meat’’ so as to forestall a situation where some species of wild animals would go into extinction. The tourism expert also advised the government to
animals in the ecosystem. She attributed illegal killing of wild animals to the lack of knowledge of the importance of these animals by residents of various communities, especially farmers. “However, government
improve the security arrangements put in place for existing game reserves, while demarcating more areas for wildlife conservation. Awoseyin stressed that if the games reserves were wellmanaged, they would be able to earn more foreign exchange for the country. Nevertheless, Mrs Sophia Anyafulu, a lecturer in Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, advised all tiers of government to develop zoological parks in their areas, while educating the people on the usefulness of
should from time to time import different species of animals for continued existence of the animals,’’ she said. All the same, conservationists urge the government to initiate decisive measures to address the menace of poaching in the national parks. They also advise the government to demarcate more areas for wildlife conservation, as part of calculated efforts to boost ecotourism in the country. NAN
“Apart from the economic benefits of a viable wildlife park, it also beautifies the environmentandpreservesnature,thereby attracting lovers of beauty and nature...’’
Media THESE are called wind musical instruments that produce their sounds through air when blown or played, they are solid object which enclose a body or vibrating air, in all parts of Africa (Nigeria) whistles and flutes are made of wood, bamboo, clay, horn, ivory, brass, elephant tusks. The horn is the largest aerophone musical instrument in Nigeria. It is also carved from cow horns. The pitch is large when blown, it is used for calling people and serves as a communication instrument. Some of them are bugle, trumpet, clarion, helicon horn, bass horn, sax horn, sousaphone comet, trombone tuba, saxtuba, bass tuba bagpipe, tenor, saxophone pipe, pan pipes, nose flute, mouth piece, and reed instrument. Other musical instruments are the organ — such as church organ, steam organ, electric organ, reed organ, melodeon, mouth organ, harmonica accordion, barrel organ, choir organ, piano, barrel organ, manual key board and the great organ. The piano is another very common and important musical instrument. So also is the violin or violoncello tenor violin, bass violin, bass or contrabass, string, bridge and resin. The gramophone — These are record player, phonograph radio gram, tape recorder, cassette hifi, stereo set, stereo system, stereo tower, personal headset, compact disc player,
Unveiling Today’s Print An recording laser disc, record disc, LP, EP, 33 45 78 album, stylus, speaker turn table, pick up, cartridge, deck, amplifier, video broadcast CDV and CD tapes. We have tried to identity some musical instruments and familiarize ourselves with them. As producer of music programme, it is proper for us to know them for this will ease our script writing and even when we talk to the musicians on stage or studio both radio television and even recording industry where acoustical materials are intelligently and masterfully handled. Value of Music in Broadcasting Professionals of broadcasting have identified that music fills by far about seventy five percent of broadcast every day. It is the letter press of radio and television between the news bulletin arid the featured productions. The general tone and character of a stations, music does more to establish the image of a station than any of its other activities. It so no doubt that the nature of all of us is to enjoy music. We enjoy it for its rhythms, its melodies and it’s harmonies. Some music is predominantly melodic, vocal humable, recitative lyric and choral. It has a memorable tunes, while other music is dominated by its harmonic sounds when heard together. The western world music
By OSAYOMWABO ERO
gives a great deal of emphasis to melody, Indian and Arabic music regards harmony as being more important and many Africans regard both harmony and lyrics. Classification of Music Some professional musicians have classified music under four headings: 1. The primitive music with no written source no known composers and of ancient origin 2. Folk music. This is also with no written source but sometimes with known composers; generally of more recent origin. 3. Popular Music. This is sometimes with a written source, composers frequently known marked melodies. 4. Art Music. A written score composers invariably known as a classical structure. This classifications of music embrace everything from obscure tribal music, to folk ballads ‘top twenty’ religious music and the great classical symphonies. The Music Industry The music recording industry brought support for virtually every type of electronic mass communication. The industry is synonymous with multimillion dollar studios, rock bands promoters, albums, concerts, excitement and perhaps heartbreak. To the musicians it means London Nashville,
Chicago, New York Paris and Los Angeles. To the electronic engineer microphones, and synthesizers, the recording today all over the world has changed music world entirely by producing records tapes, disc, CD DVC. Before the recording industry came to be, the use of music as a means of mass communication is credited to the print medium where songs were published in paper and inserted inside a decorated cover to be played on the piano or other musical instrument of the time. It was like a newspaper. It later known in America as sheet music which came out in 1767 and in London in 1780, Edison invented a cylinder recording photograph which he spoke into the sound waves of his voice caused vibration which in turn caused the stylus to cut grooves into the tin. This was the first sound recording music. In 1878 Alexandar Graham Bell developed on the invention of Edison musical invention. The Gramophone Emile Bevliner, a German immigrant in America developed a machine to the sound recording industry called the gramophone. He first invented an improved telephone transmitter which was a forerunner of the modern microphone.
“Professionals of broadcasting have identified that music fills by far about seventy five percent of broadcast every day. It is the letter press of radio and television between the news bulletin arid the featured productions. The general tone and character of a stations, music does more to establish the image of a station than any of its other activities.”
He evented disc recording device called gramophone. ‘In 1902 another company Victor Talking Machine Company with the famous trade mark. ‘The master’s voice’ RCA
Brumswick company. Radio has been introduced and records can now be played on air and was free to listeners. Many corporate names such RCA Victor, Columbia and Decca
Victor. (See photograph) This was followed by Columbia dua sided Disc. It was a final musical breakthrough in 1905 when Columbia introduced disc records with songs on two sides. It was a double disc, double quality, double value and double wear. Electrical Era In 1919 electrical process was brought into musical development by improving the volume and the sound quality of (a) the conducer of microphone for greater clarity (b) the vacuum tube amplifier and (c) an electro-magnetically power cutting stylus in 1924, 1926, 1929 and 1930 respectively, process of electrical rewarding had been perfected by
began to appear on recording labels. (LP picture) By 1938, Radio Networks were beginning to see the future tie with broadcasting industry, CBS, purchased the Columbia Phonograph Company recording by Major stars made famous by radio. Tape TV and Stereo After the battle for speed of records disc between 45, 33 1/3rpm 78, and 45, the operators found 45 rpm for home use 33 1/3 records were ideal for musicals, symphonies, opera and albums containing a collection of songs by star artists, During the world war 11 it was discovered by Allied forces that the Germans had made
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Media
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recording on magnetic tape and 33 1/3 rpm in America was running second to what the German’s tape could offer. Tape gave even the smallest radio stations the ability to record play back, evade and record
recoded music. The transition between songs and performers was equally important in specific songs. Today things have changed, it is the recording artist is what people wants people attend rock concert
every thing from local news makers to studio trios. Editing was also possible down to a note or syllable. Today, tape has prospered as the portable medium. Others are the cassette tape players, inside the home, the car and the boat. In 1945, Stereo records made debut had by Audio Fidelity, a small recording company. As people began to understand the possibility of sound separation, the demand for stereo records increased FM stereo received the FCC’ S approval in 1961. The Recording Artist At the turn of 20 th country recording industry was an important part of the history of
because they want to hear and see the star. This made records to sell to soldiers during World War I which saw the introduction of JAZZ recording with the public shaping up those JAZZ artists such as King Oliver, Kid Ory, and much later Louis Armstrong (photo). Radio and Rock and Roll Radio was forced by the introduction of Television to specialize its programming formats, Rock and Roll music, which also diversified into soft rock, hard rock, acid rock, punk rock and others. Radio needed Rock and Roll and Rock and Roll needs Radio. Rock and Roll changed the music industry and helped to change the radio
too. It provided some of the largest profits that the entertainment world has ever seen and enjoyed. It was a fast faced combination of music with rhythm and blues. Among Rock and Roll stars the biggest of them was Chubby Checker and later to the youths. Here comes another big name in the musical world the young famous Elvis Presley (photo) who first appeared in national television. His performance brought younger audience that becomes devoted fans of rock music performers. Rock and Roll music population who turned to radio stations to hear the “top 100” the ‘top 40’ were both the adults and youths who were never too old to be cut off from the rock music. It sent thousands to concerts. Because of radios adaptability it drew also thousands loyalists and disc jockeys became popular stars in their own right. Transistors made it possible to take rock music almost everywhere. Radio was again prospering. Rock music changed the people’s culture since it acquired many devotes. The British rock followed on the heels of the rock and roll popularity in the united states with their song “1 wand to Hold Your Hand” and television news coverage of their appearances in the pubs of Liverpool, they were admired. The Beatles skyrocketed their
first American tour in the early 1960 set a stage for many British rock groups to follow among them the Rolling Stones. With the Beatles come a long hair then still longer hair countless among them followed. People began to realize that rock and roll was an expression of culture and not a passing fad. West African Artists (Nigeria) Radio Broadcasting was introduced to Nigeria by the British (see volume 1 chapter 3 pg 17) in 1932 when BBC signals were relayed to receivers through the redifusion systems. In 1951 Nigerian Broadcasting Service (NBS) was inaugurated still relaying the BBC programmes By 1956 Nigerian Broadcasting corporation (NBC) was established but started operation in 1957 April I All these time various musical tapes and records were relayed on air. LPs 33 1/3 rpm 45 rpm and 78 had reached Nigeria. Recording Industry had come to West Africa, the Decca and Philip records were on air. A typical High Life music like the Rock and Roll was introduced in Ghana by E.T. Messah, in the late 50s and this came to Nigeria. Many star musicians such Sir Victor Oloiya, I.K Dairo, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Nkota, Njameze, Rex Lawson etc. set a pace in music in radio following by Juju music by Sunny Ade, Rasome Kuti, Apalara
music, Ogunde Theatre group, and many concerts group sprang up as a result of the introduction of radio and later the television stations. In West Africa these were the Western Nigerian television (WNTV) established in 1959 which later become NTA Ibadan in 1976, Eastern Nigerian TV (ENTV) 1960 later known as NTA Kaduna and FRCN Kaduna. With the introduction of radio and television in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa — Musical programmes and recording industries, sprang up, airing the best selling songs to a large audience. Mention must be made here that with gramophones everywhere ‘Congo’ music and Indian music became very popular in our broadcasting stations in Nigeria as from 1960. One can listen to ‘Congo’ or Indian Music for one hour in radio and television. Classical music, Jazz, and Rock and Roll were always played. A new culture in our music was developed. Our traditional music was also developed. Band stand, stars and reputable artists sprang up and occupied positions in broadcasting. This also encouraged our cultural festivals, carnivals, and competitions between states in the Federation became intensified because they are recorded by radio and television productions. The FESTAC 1977 was a good
example. Digital Recording Music recording have entered into digital recording and with digital recording, the range and clarity of reproduction is greatly enhanced. High and low notes are distortion free, a feat with which other cannot compete. With digital, the distortions occurring from standard recording onto magnetic tape, mixing sounds in the studio, transferring the tape, is eliminated. As the sound is originally produced by, say, an arches, the computer can sample the sound waves, picked up the microphone as many times 70,000 times in one second. Each sampling is assigned a numerical value and along with other ‘sampling’ produces a numerical model of the sound. This can be stored in the computer and call back when the recording is made sounds can still be mixed just as they can with magnetic tape. Copyright The right to reproduce music is known as system for protecting the composer performer of a piece of music. Primitive music is never copyright as far as the composer is concerned because the composer is not known similarly some folk music is beyond copyright. But all popular music and art music is subject to copyright. Radio and Television stations pay fees for the use of copyright music.
“Music recording have entered into digital recording and with digital recording, the range and clarity of reproduction is greatly enhanced. High and low notes are distortion free, a feat with which other cannot compete.”
Issues
Press Freedom And The Practice Of Journalism In Nigeria By DESMOND AGBAMA
THE United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following the recommendations adopted at the 26th session of the United Nation’s Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation UNESCO general assembly held in Windhoek in 1991 proclaimed May 3 every ear as World Press Freedom Day. It is a day set aside to assess the state of the press worldwide. It is a day for media practitioners to reflect on issues of press freedom and professional ethics. It is also a day to remind government and those in leadership positions of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom. Moreover, it is an occasion to inform citizens about press and media violations throughout the world. Importantly, it is a day to remember journalists who died in the course of performing their job. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Media Freedom for a better future; shaping the post 2015 Development Agenda”. Here in Edo State, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, focused on the safety of Journalists and the rule of law. This is apt because, for journalists to be able to contribute meaningfully towards the development of the society and ensure a better future, their safety, freedom and welfare must be guaranteed. Talking about press freedom in Nigeria, one would say that there is still room for improvement, as journalists are still being harassed, assaulted, arrested and detained by the authority for performing his or her legitimate duties. Journalists are in many cases induced with money or material things to either suppress or subvert the truth. Many years after the enactment of the freedom of information law, it is still very difficult to practice journalism in accordance with that law. This is so, because many public officers and politicians are in the habit of hiding vital information from the press. They prevent journalists from getting access to the needed information and facts especially as it concerns finance, budgeting, income and expenditure of government at federal, state and local government levels. This does not promote development or guarantee better future, which the theme of this year’s Press Freedom Day is focusing on.
Furthermore, the journalism profession is a dynamic one and for its practitioners to perform well on the job, they must be abreast with the changing or emerging trend in the practice of the profession. That explains why journalists must be constantly trained and retrained. What has been observed in Nigeria is that most employers of journalists do not place high premium on their training, but expect the best from them. For journalists to put in their best and remain
paid, which of course is responsible for commercialization of news in some cases, as well as the “brown envelop syndrome”. The purpose of work is first to sustain ones livelihood and a situation where media owner engages the services of journalist without remuneration or adequate remuneration negates the principle of truthful and fair journalism. Therefore, there should be adequate remuneration for journalists whether in public or private sector. At this point, we call on
productive, they must be provided with the necessary tools and equipment to carryout their job. A situation whereby journalists will have to rely on his pen and paper alone in this era of information communication technology does not enhance efficiency. As the saying goes, if you expect the best from a workforce, you must encourage and empower them with the relevant tools to work. Importantly, journalists in Nigeria are poorly
Edo State Government and other employers of Journalists to implement the 22 percent Weigh-in Allowance for media workers without delay, in order to enhance their take home pay. The Edo State Council of the N.U.J on this occasion remember with grief and nostalgia, those journalists who died while performing their duties, Olatunji Jacob, Fidelis Okhaine and George Okosun as well as others across the country’. Nevertheless, Journalists should continuously uphold the ethics of the Journalism profession and they should allow integrity, fairness, truth, justice and objectivity guide their reportage of’ events. The Nigeria Union of Journalists will continue to frown at and discipline any erring journalists, in order to check the excesses of its members. By so doing, journalists will be able to win public confidence and thrive in the journalism profession. Finally, government at all levels must respect and abide by their commitments to press freedom in line with the international protocol.
“Nevertheless, Journalists should continuously uphold the ethics of the Journalism profession and they should allow integrity, fairness, truth, justice and objectivity guide their reportage of’ events.”
Desmond Agbama is the Chairman, Edo State Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council.
Hint: Example 3 Factorise 2y2 + 13y - 7 When the coeficient is not 1, we Solution: can follow these steps: As usual, we write +2(1st term) x (1). Multiply the coeficient of the -7 (last term) to get -14 1st term by the last term.
Mathematics With Stanley Osobase 08023454887 Osobase2001@yahoo.co.uk
Factorising Quadratic Expressions (When The Coefficient Of 1st Term Is Not 1 Or Unity)
Sum of Factors (2). Use the product and sum of Product (-14) +14 X -1 +14 - 1 = +13 factors method as demonstrated in -14 X +1 -14 +1= -13 -7 X +2 - 7 + 2 = -5 the previous edition. +7 X -2 +7 - 2 = +5 (3). Replace the original middle term with the corresponding factors. 2y2 + 14y - y - 7 (4). Group the four terms in pairs or 2y(y + 7) - 1(x + 7) (5). Factor out and the result :- 2y2 + 13y - 7 = (y + 7)(2y - 1) Ans follows! Example 4 Example 1 Factorise 2x2 - 17x + 8 Factorise 3x2 + 8x + 4 Solution: Solution: Coefficient of 1st term (+ 2) x last Following the steps above, we get: term (+ 8) = +16 +3 X +4 = +12 Product (-16) Sum of Factors Product (+12) +3 X +4 -3 X - 4 +6 X +2 -6X-2
Sum of Factors +3 +4 = +7 - 3 - 4 = -7 +6 +2 = +8 - 6 - 2 = -8
+8 X +2 -8 X -2 -16 X -1 +16 X+1
+8 + 2 = +10 -8 - 2= -10 -16 - 1 = -17 +16 + 1 = +17
Example 6 Factorize 6p2 = 2 - 11p Solution: Rearrange in the standard way to get: 6p2 + 11p - 2 Next, multiply the coefficient of 1st term (+6) by the last term (-2) to get -12. Now, Product (-12)
Sum of Factors
- 4 x +3
-4 + 3 = -1
+4 x -3
+4 - 3 = +1
+6 x -2
+6 - 2 = +4
- 6 x +2
-6 +2 = -4
+12 x -1
+12 - 1 = +11
2x2 + 16x - x + 8 Replace middle term with factors to or 2x(x - 8) - 1(x - 8) -12 x +1 -12 + 1 = -11 get: or (x - 8)(2x - 1) Replace middle term (+11) with 2 2 :- 2x + 17x + 8 = (x - 8)(2x - 1) Ans factors +12 and -1 to get: 3x + 6x + 2x + 4 3x(x +2) + 2 (x + 2) 6p2 + 12p - p - 2 Example 5 2 3x + 8x + 4 = (x + 2)(3x + 2) Ans Find the factors of 2m2 - 3m - 27 Group these four terms in pairs to get: Solution: 6p(p + 2) -1(p + 2) Example 2 Multiplying the coefficeint of or (p + 2)(6p - 1) Factorise 2x2 - 3x - 2 first term (i.e, +2) by the last term Solution: 6p2 + 11p - 2 = (p + 2)(6p -1)Ans The product of the 1st term and (i.e, -27), we get: Drills last term +2 X - 2 = -4. Now, Product (-54) Sum of Factors Factorise the following: Product (+12) Sum of Factors + 6 x -9 +6 - 9 = -3 (1). 7x2 = 38x - 15 Ans: (x -5)(7x -3) +4 X -1 +4 - 1 = +3 - 6 x +9 -6 + 9 = +3 (2). 5m2 + 9m = 2 Ans: (m + 2)(5m -1) -4 X +1 -4 + 1 = -3 -54 x +1 -54 +1 = -53 (3). 3 - 7v + 2v2 Ans: (x - 3)(2x - 1) -2 X +2 -2 +2 = 0 2x - 4x + x - 2 or 2x(x - 2) + 1(x - 2) or (x - 2)(2x + 1) :- 2x2 - 3x - 2 = (x - 2)(2x + 1)Ans 2
+54 x-1
+54 - 1 = +53
+27 x -2
+27 - 2 = +25
-27 x +2
-27 + 2 = -25
+18 x -3
+18 - 3 = +15
-18 x +3
-18 +3 = -15
Until next edition, remain blessed solving Maths. Readers are also advised to watch the EBS TV on Thursdays at 4pm for Maths 1/2hour
Motoring With OSAGIE AIFUWA 08023412452
Basic Safety Rules
Vehicle Maintenance Procedure
THERE is a well-known picture in the mind of everybody, whether he or she is interested in automobiles or not. It is of those sad remnants of all brands of cars, Buses, Trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles, which dies early. You don’t want your car to die a ‘premature death”, do you? The premature death is not due to substandard material and workmanship but largely to lack of adequate maintenance procedure discussed here is not a substitute to daily and weekly checks. It is on the action to be taken and which ever comes first. Maintenance of your vehicle starts from the pre-delivery inspection (DPI). Your dealer must have done that before you take possession of the car. It must be followed with first inspection service, which is compulsory after you must have covered I,000 kilometers on one month after the date of purchase. Due to the state of our roads and poor handling of motor vehicle by motorists, It is suggested that your vehicles should be serviced at every 5,000 - 6,000 km or three or four months, which ever comes first. For the engine to serve you, you must “service” it to keep it in top form always. This is done when you service the engine at regular interval of about 5,000km, which include the following serving procedures. 1. Check Oil level in the engine sump 2. Warm the engine up to attain its working temperature before you drain the oil 3. Oil filter to be replaced with a new one.
4. Check the values clearance and adjust it necessary. Proper care must be taken during adjustment to ensure that it is adjusted to the manufacturer’s recommendation. 5. Check the contact point for excessive wear is excessive, A little wear can be corrected by using oilstone or sand paper. After 10,000 kilometers, it is advisable to replace contact. 6. Remove the spark plugs wash them in petrol and use a wire brush to remove outraces
of carbon set the plug gap to 0.75 0.85 (for vehicles). 7. Use compressed air to blow the air cleaner element properly. Replace it after 5,000km 8. Check the tension of the drive belt. It should be adjusted after 5,000km. 9. Use a timing light (ignition timing light ) to set the ignition timing correctly. 10. Set the idle speed (slow running) of the car to the recommended
ALTHOUGH tyre manufacturers balanced tyre and tube , it is often necessary to balance the complete wheel assembly to ensure that wheel rotates free from vibration. Out of balance wheel may be cause by (a) Static unbalance , and ( b) Dynamic•. unbalance. (a) Wheels are statically balanced if they remain at rest in any given position. Static unbalance wheel always comes to rest in one position, which indicates the presence of a” heavy spot” directly below the wheel axis. A wheel used in this condition will tend to cause the unbalanced centrifugal force to lift the wheel of the road periodically, and produce conditions knows as” Wheel Hop” . Shimmy and uneven l wear (b) Wheels are dynamically balance when rotated . No resultants centrifugal force is
exerted . Dynamic unbalanced wheel if rotated , the centrifugal forces acting through the same line . Wheels should be balanced statically and dynamically to allow even tyre wear and free wheel vibration. Front wheel alignment is checked with different kinds of alignment equipment available in workshops and most petrol station. In checking front alignment you will measure camber, castor
revolution per minute: The car carburetor is to form the very rapid burning charge needed by the engine. The process of preparing this suitable “charge” mixture of fuel and air is known as carburetion. The idle mixture adjusts screw on the carburetor controls, the amount of fuel air mixture that is being burnt inside the engine. The idle mixture adjust screw should not be touched unless you have a tester. Exhaust Gas Analyzer (spedal tester) is used to set it correctly. Wrong adjustment of this idle mixture screw will cause excessive fuel consumption.
Wheel Balancing and toe – in. The toe - in can be adjusted if found incorrect. You can measure steering axis - inclination and toe-out on turns which are not adjustable. If they are wrong, it means parts are bent or damaged and must be replaced. The level of fluid in power steering system should be maintained between the minimum and maximum level, else the pump will not build enough pressure for the system Leaks should be repaired immediately by skilled mechanics.
1. Keep your vehicle in good condition . Pay particular attention to light brakes , steering , tyres and direction indicator . Keep windscreens and windows cleans and free of abstractions. 2. Use your rear view and wing mirrors before moving off, overtaking, turning slowing down or stopping. 3. Signal your intention in good time and before executing them 4. On the highway, keep well within your lane. Do not wander from lane to lane or change lane suddenly. 5. Always obey traffic officers in the lawful performances of their duties 6. Do not reverse into a major road or expressway and on any road at all. Do not reverse for more than eight metres. 7. Get to know the major traffic signs and road marking and obey them. 8. Park only where you will not obstruct other road users or be a danger to them, If your vehicle breaks down, push it off the road so that it does not obstruct traffic or other road users. 9. Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 10. Be polite and courteous to other road users.
Understanding Steering System THE operation of the steering gearbox can be mechanical as we have on most vehicles on our roads or hydraulic (power steering) also as we have on some cars on our roads . The power steering reduces the effort needed to turn the steering wheel and makes maneuvering in a confirmed space much easier than with the conventional steering (mechanical steering). With conventional steering some steering wheels may be wrenched out of a driver grip if a tyre bursts at high speed or if the car hits a large bump. This does not happen with power steering .
Another advantage of the power steering is that car can be steered manually if the power fails. The main components of a power steering are the same as the conventional type but plus a pump which supplies the fuild driven by the engine, sensing valves operated by movement of the steering wheels or by the deflection of the road wheels, the ram and piston assembly and the connecting pipes. The maintenance procedure from the two systems are similar. But the power steering has the hydraulic system to be maintained in addition.
“Front wheel alignment is checked with different kinds of alignment equipment available in workshops and most petrol station. In checking front alignment you will measure camber, castor and toe – in. The toe - in can be adjusted if found incorrect.”
Spirituality Lessons From The Lives Of Saints (4) AS mankind marches through history, there are precious few who make a mark for themselves and stand out as famous people of their time. But it is a rare person indeed, who stands out as a giant throughout history. How seldom a Caesar, a Napoleon, a Columbus or a Charlemagne! These are the special ‘greats’ of history. Prominent in their midst is the most improbable of all; a gaunt, ragged beggar who loved God unto folly, won the hearts of all mankind and tame for all generations, St. Francis of Assisi, the poverello’. Only one thing made him great, his fantastic love of God. Who could have suspected that the teenager Francis would end up as he did? He did come from a good and fairly affluent family. His father had a cloth business and made money; his mother, Lady Pica, a French woman was from a good family. As far as we know, Francis was born September 26, 1182; his father was away and at baptism that took place on the same day, he was named John. But on his father’s return the name was changed to Francis. Of his education we know little but we are sure he had one, as he could speak Latin and French as well as his own Umbrian dialect. When old enough he started to work in his dad’s cloth weaving shop and seems to have been successful though he was not good at saving money — he liked to spend it by going out with his friends and having a good time. Not dipping into evil but just the good fun of youth. They would sing and eat and dance and stay out till all hours of the night. Historically, the people of Assisi, at this time rebelled against the nobles who had control of things and the neighboring Perugia came to the aid of the nobles. Among those fighting against the nobles (for freedom) was Francis and when peace was achieved, Francis, who had been taken prisoner in the fighting was kept in jail for a year. So he did have a police record! He was twenty when he finally got out of jail. Back to Assisi, he sought to make a name for himself by going into military service. Out of Assisi he rode, a well decked-out soldier to be —but he didn’t get far; at Spoleto about forty miles away he was struck with a fever that forced him to bed and in his dreams he heard a voice asking him to serve Him Who could benefit Him most; to return to Assisi where he would be told what to do. So back he went and worked with his father: but no
longer did partying give him pleasure, there was more to life. He was twenty-three and he Wondered what he should be in life. Before he had spent his money on friends though he always helped the poor: but now all his money went for the poor. To help resolve his problem he made a pilgrimage to Rome and to better know life, he gave away his clothes to a beggar and went around in rags. Back to Assisi he sought advice from Bishop Guido, who was to be a dear friend, father and counselor to Francis as long as he lived. What Should he do? The first project was to help the lepers. These poor People were not only afflicted with a terrible disease, but no one would go near them. So Francis went and cleaned their wound cooked for them and cleaned their hut; he was working for Christ!! He was twenty live and happy. In free hours, he would go by himself and pray: while praying at the Church of San Damianci he heard a voice saying: “Now go hence, Francis, and build up my house for it is nearly falling down.” His answer was: Lord with joy will I do what Thou wishest.” At first he thought this meant to repair tumbled down churches and home he went and took cloth from the store and sold it. His horse also went and anything he could get his hands on including his fine clothes. In poor clothing he went to the priest of San Damiano and gave him money to repair the church. When he returned to town the children taunted the ‘A’beggar ’ and threw stones at him and when his father saw this —and also found out that he had cleaned out the store and also sold his 1 things, he went into a rage and seeking to bring Francis to his senses, had him jailed. But his poor mother, Lady Pica, bled for her son and arranged to have him released — back Francis went to his special little place of prayer. But his father was not to be swayed by his wife’s softness and called the police to apprehend Francis and then took place that famous scene where Francis gave everything over to his father, even his clothes; the Bishop wrapped him in his cloak and took him under his care. At Bishop Guido’s home an older cloak was found in the gardener’s hut and with is Francis went off —first to Mount Subasio to pray and then to Gubbio to work among the poor in the hospital there. He still was searching for a vocation to fulfill his love of God: he spent time and money — he begged for the poor and
By DITTANAY CARIN
sick; then in repairing tumbled-down churches, all the time seeking to live by the gospel that became his guide book. He was twenty-nine and felt that he should be “the Great King’s herald He had found peace and the Peace produced joy — peace, productive of joy became the theme of his life. In his time there was a problem. A movement arose that sought to banish all material things as evil and this became so prevalent that the Church sent out preachers to combat it. Bat well-fed, wellclothed and well-housed
Cathedral of the Pope, (it is so even to our times) St. John Lateran crumbling and no One able to do a thing to stop it; but a small little man dressed in peasant garb, barefooted and ‘with a rope around his waist went to the crumbling walls, set his shoulder against them and the walls went upright. On awakening he felt this would be the vocation of Francis, to help rebuild the Church, and, in reality, this happened. Now Francis’ vocation was clear. I would go about preaching without pretense or luxury. His sermons would be simple, just to jar people into
the sermon,” remonstrated the companion. “That we gave by our example” said Francis. As time passed, many men, priests and laymen alike, joined Francis and it eventually became necessary to give his group some juridical form and seek approval of the Pope. This he did and today, of course, we know his Order as the Franciscan Fathers. Francis had a tremendous love of the Eucharist and would spend hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. Out of this was distilled a love of God that enabled him to have close communion with Christ, a communion that often
the realization that heaven was their home and they would get there by loving God. Most of his companions were not priests — in fact, Francis was never ordained a priest, just deacon — but eventually some were ordained so they could hear confessions of the souls seeking to accept God. How simple his sermons! There is this story. He was going down the road one day and saw a man working. He asked, “why are you working?” “So I can make money,’ came the answer. “And why do you want money?” And the answer, “So I can buy bread.” “And why do you want bread?” And the impatient answer, “so I can live” And why are you living?“ Another time Francis told a Companion they were to go to a village to preach. They entered thevillage, went to the end of it and they turned around and went home. ‘But
lasted till late in the night and often times would result in ecstasy. With this was a tender love of our Blessed Lady whom he often praised in his sermons and prayed to in his contemplation. Under it all was a respect and deference to the Pope regardless of the person of the man. The pope represented Christ and he recalled Christ’s words: “he who spurns you, spurns Me.” There was one special soul he was able to influence. A strong, noble and beautiful girl of Assisi who took Francis for her guide and at the age of eighteen consecrated herself to Christ; St. Clara with whom Francis was to found the Poor dares. Many of the laity wanted to join but Francis knew sanctity was just as possible in the world as in the cloister and so he established a set of rules for sanctity for the laity and joined them in a
St. Francis of Assisi preachers didn’t impress the people or combat the movement. Francis felt a need here and so he went by himself in contemplation to prepare and then went, in the market places preaching the love of God under the protection of the Church. A true son of the Church, gaunt, poorly clothed and breathing the love of God, he was able to impress the poor and as sore them that all material things were not evil, that they should be loyal to the Church and seek God’s forgiveness. It is at this time that the famous dream took place. Francis had asked the Pope’s permission before he started to preach —by this time he had gathered a few followers around him. Pope Innocent I was impressed and readily gave the permission, especially after what he, himself, dreamed the night before. In his sleep he saw the
fraternity. That is the origin of the various Third Orders possessed by most Religious Orders. His influence went from Pope to peasant, this barefoot man from Assisi became the moving time of his age; and remains a strong influence in the world up to modern days. A simple man but deeply in love with God ——so much that he saw God in all creatures. Birds were sister birds to him and he even Preached to them; though one time while he was preaching some swallows made too much noise and he quieted them in the name of God. Then there is the famous story — is it legend? —that there was a ferocious wolf in Gubbio that terrorized the area. Francis tamed him and he became a friend of Francis’. All the world was his family, all his brothers or his sisters. With disregard he called his body Brother Donkey but even sickness and death were call Sister Sickness and Sister Death. Of course he was human— he liked to chew parsley leaves and had a penchant for fish and one of his favorites was an almond paste —what is used to make what we know as Marzipan. He suffered much from illness and while on a visit to the Holy Land he contracted an eye disease that impaired his sight considerably. By the time he was forty he was in bad physical shape and he referred to himself as a ‘decrepit old man.” Like all mankind he was tempted and tempted severely by the devil. But he made this a source of love of God. This is what he said of temptation (and we can learn from it): “No one ought to consider himself a true servant of God who is not tried by many temptations and trials.” Prayer, his communion with God, was an integral part of his life. They say he spent one whole night saying: “My God and my all”. He wanted to be united with Christ’s passion and this grace was given to him. In 1224 he was granted the stigmata, the sacred wounds of Christ became visible on his hands and feet and on his left side; this he carried the grave with him two years later. Always joyful his last two years were spent in much pain and near blindness. Rewrote encouraging letters to his men — they were now about five thousand strong, and he prayed much, Finally he asked to taken to his little chapel at Portiuncula and there on a Saturday night, October 3, 1226 he gave his soul to God.
Lesson In Gender Equity, Equality Okpekpe:
THE Okpekpe road race has run its full circle and last leg, but feelers are the whistles from that beautiful tourist event in Edo State are still blowing, nearly one week after. Indications are rife that some sports enthusiasts and women civil society organization are banking on the observations (we call it erudite calculations) made by the Comrade Governor of Edo State on the unequal pay between male and female athletes on the same race at the event. Without meaning to flatter, the Comrade Governor will be remembered in history for being the one who calculated well when others either chose to miscalculate or simply ignore the obvious. For the rest of us, it wasn’t really obvious until it was pronounced by the Comrade Governor, that a whole lot of marginalization, intimidation and inequality were going on even in the sporting arena. Of course, we have heard about inequality as the United Nations declared it in the books, we have heard so much about women not getting equal pay with men for doing the
same job, but we never thought that could happen in the field, in the full glare of many witnesses and with the same calculated steps of athletes on the same race! Oh! For us, that is the height of man’s inhumanity to woman! Come to think of it, what is in the strength or energy that the male athlete uses in running that the female athlete lacks? He has male hormones and she has females and she uses her female hormones to reach the winning post as much as he does and then…she does not deserve the same pay? It beats us hollow! The Comrade Governor used exactly the right words we would have also used if only. We had calculated well. He said, “I question the wisdom and merit…” Indeed, there was no wisdom and there was no merit! Right from the onset of the struggle for women emancipation and empowerment, gender equality and equity became the basis for attaining genuine emancipation and empowerment even genuine development and progress what is the big
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deal in giving men what rightfully belonged to them and doing same to women? If the resources are lean the payment should not be mean, it should be equal! What’s really the big deal? That same thing that the Comrade Governor Observed which he blamed on ‘Chauvinists’ is still taking place in every segment of our political,
male counterparts is maternity leave. Aside that, internal growth and advancement belong to the men, even when the women are more qualified. Her sex keeps her static while her male counterpart on the same job grows in leaps and bounds. She earns lower than he does because her promotion only trickles in
her male colleagues. It is high time these chauvinism stopped! It is high time we called a spade a spade; we are not asking that women should be paid higher (in fact, some civil society organizations are clamoring for higher pay for the woman because a ‘weaker sex’ shouldn’t be treated with levity, but we understand they are only making caricature of
capability of the woman and putting her potentials under speculation. However, there is no speculating on what a woman can do as much as that thing is what anyone can do. If anyone can do it, a woman can be that one. If she does it, whatever pay that is allocated for doing it, should be paid to the woman who did it! Is that
social and economic space; only that it is covered by ‘administrative maneuvering’ and no one seems to notice. In most public and private offices, the only thing women enjoy above their
after a long while. There are other imbedded benefits and remunerations that she may not have heard about because it never reflected in her pay. She is a sex that shouldn’t be seen growing alongside
people who still regard women as weaker sex in this era when women are seen doing everything most men are still warming energy to do and doing it better), but that would be underestimating the
not a simple enough calculation? Its there no wisdom and merit in that? Of course, there is? Let wisdom prevail in dealing with issues relating to humans, to all men and women. Let there be merit too!
“Without
meaning to flatter, the Comrade Governor will be remembered in history for being the one who calculated well when others either chose to miscalculate or simply ignore the obvious. For the rest of us, it wasn’t really obvious until it was pronounced by the Comrade Governor, that a whole lot of marginalization, intimidation and inequality were going on even in the sporting arena.”
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Religion
With REV. DR. A. A. OPARA
The Ministry Of The Super Natural (6) I should have titled this chapter the effect of sin but I want my reader to know that sin has its power a negative power that can hinder the supernatural move of God. Sin and the supernatural ministry are incompatible elements. The channel of the supernatural ministry is righteous or holiness. The Holy Spirit who is the source of the supernatural ministry flows more powerfully through the channel or vehicle of righteous. Sin can put a break or can bring distortions to the channel or flow of the Holy Spirit. This is the reason why any servant of God who experiences the supernatural must flow in the righteousness of God. By this I do not mean to say that the supernatural ministry can be used as the yardstick for measuring ones righteousness. I am not saying the one who experiences a supernatural ministry is holier than the one who doesn’t experience it. This is rather attributable to the grace of God than the singular effort of man. Paul who experienced a supernatural ministry said that it was by the grace of God. “But by the grace of God I am what I am and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain” 1 Cor l5:10. But a man gifted in the ministry of the supernatural must acknowledge that the Holy Spirit is in charge and the Holy Spirit who dwells in him and operates through him would not want him defiled. If he continuously defiles himself he may lose the presence of the Holy Spirit in his life and ultimately destroy himself. “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that the spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God HIM SHALL GOD DESTROY; for the temple of God is holy; which temple ye are” 1 Cor 3:16-17. David the prophet of God and king of Israel greatly lamented when he defiled his temple in the sin of adultery with Bethsheba. He knew the consequences that awaited
him and quickly repented. He wrote this repentant plea to God: “Have mercy upon me 0 God ... cast me not away from thy presence and take not the Holy spirit from me ...“ Psalm 51:1,11. Yes sin has the power of driving you away from the presence of God and the Holy Spirit deserting you! A man of the spirit should run away from sin especially the sin of the flesh that has the power to instantly destroy him. Paul the man of the spirit set an example for us that even though he enjoyed the grace of God to overcome sin specifically lust of the fleshyet he exercised on himself some restraint and self discipline. There comes a time inspite of your anointing especially the when the man of the spirit is not giving to fasting and prayers; a “war” can emerge between the flesh and the spirit. (Roms 7:23). Do you realize if you are born again that old things are past away and all things have become new (1 Cor 5:17); yet there may arise on some occasions when the fleshly desires want to stir up in you to lead you to sin; at this instance you will need to apply self discipline or self restraint to keep your body in check with prayers. “But I keep under my body and bring it into subjection lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” 1 Cor 9:27. The negative power of sin is clearly written in these Bible verses “Behold, the lord’s hand is not shortened that it cannot save, neither his ear heavy that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your God and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” Isa 59: 1-2. Another Bible verse puts the negative power of sin this way: “For the eyes of the lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers; but the face of the lord is against them that do evil” 1 Pet 3:12. How can you move the hand of God when you are
bathed in sin? Your prayers Will be rendered ineffectual because: “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” Jas 5:16 Very gracious this is, if you are a vessel of honour and your body is the channel through which Christ is magnified through the works of the Holy Spirit, then your body which is the vehicle through which the Holy Spirit touches others must be kept sanctified. Paul’s body was an example that handkerchiefs from him were placed on the sick and they were delivered and healed (Acts 19:11-12). That body is
himself prematurely. “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are Gods” lCor6:20. Oh servant of God, flee from these sins that can kill instantly. THE OLD NATURE VIS-A VIS THE NEW NATURE The old man is crucified and the new man in you is resurrected when you become born again in Christ This is the general conception. The evil in man’s nature is in the heart region Jeh 17:9. The sinners heart chart explains this vividly.
cleansing and regenerating him from his old nature to a new nature. At this point he is said to be reunified with Christ (2Cor 5:17, Jn10: 3238) The old nature is giving way to a new nature in Christ. The Holy Ghost is doing a spiritual operation and cleansing the heart. As he continues to yield himself to God and the influence of the Holy Spirit, the regenerated heart gets sanctified and at this stage, he can be described fully as the temple of God. The Holy Ghost now fully occupies the heart and satan flees; he has
overcome the overtures of satan the devil. You must be prayerful . The prayerless Christians and the watchless Christian even though born again and filled with the spirit can be an easy prey for satan. This was the reason Paul warned the Christians in the Philippian church“wherefore my beloved work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” Phil 2:12 Christian who fail to realize that they are in warfare with Satan the devil, who feel they are born again and the old nature totally crucified and
under obligation to keep itself continually honoured for Christ and flee from any lust of the flesh; including fornication, adultery, smoking, drinking, stealing , cheating and persistent lies. These are obvious sins against the body. “Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body, but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, AND YE ARE NOT A MAN OF THE SPIRIT IS UNDER OBLIGATION TO God to keep his body undefiled as a vehicular instrument of the Holy Spirit, except he wants to destroy
The sinners heart is full of evil because satan is in charge and he is yielded to his master the devil (Jer. 17:9, Prov l6: 18, Mk 7:21-23) He is in his old nature living under the influence of sin. But the word of God comes into his heart and he listens, then the Holy Spirit convicts him and the heart is now a yielded heart (Heb 4:12, 8:12, Jn 8:12, 36 When he is convicted he begins to realize the guilt of sin and begins to surrender himself to Christ. Some people do this with tears. The process of repentance has started. He is now confessing and repenting. This is a repentant heart. (Ps 34:18, Isa 53:4-5, 66:2 1Jn 1:7) In the process of his repentance the Holy Ghost begins to work in his heart
a new heart so to speak (Psalm 51:10, 34:7-8 Ezek 36 :25- 27,Jn 15:4-5) But satan though not inside the man’s heart is still around the individual trying to work on the mind of the renewed heart. At this stage of your Christian life you must be watchful. He that stands take heed lest he falls. This is a good warning to every child of God. Satan is tempting the individual to cause him to fall from the grace of God. (1 Cor 10:12, Eph 6:11-18, Malt 26:41) Even though you are no longer in your old nature but the new nature, yet he attempts to re-enact you to go back to the old nature what you have already rejected. At this point in your Christian faith you must apply self restraint or self discipline to
fail to fast and pray ; who do not know that satan lurks around by the power of “auto suggestion” and therefore do not exercise self discipline or self restraint like the Apostle Paul (1 Cor. 9:27), they become easy captive of satan, through his re-enacting them into the old nature . Satan returns to the heart with more demons than he had before in the life of the backslidden Christian. Oh! the once shining and bubbling Christian is now backslidden going back to his own vomit. (Lk . Mall 23.27-28, 2Pet 2:22 2Pet 1:14-15, Heb 10:26-27) oh man of the spirit please beware; that once you are in the new nature watch and pray against satanic temptation of re-enacting the old nature.
International Lebanese Lawmakers Again Fail To Elect President
BEIRUT — Lebanese lawmakers affiliated with a Hezbollah-led alliance boycotted a third round of voting in parliament yesterday, once again foiling an attempt to elect the country’s new president. It was the third time in less than a month that Lebanon’s legislators failed to elect a president — making it increasingly unlikely the nation’s feuding politicians will be able to choose a candidate for the country’s top Christian post before President Michel Suleiman’s term expires on May 25. Lebanon is deeply split along sectarian and ideological lines and divisions have worsened because of the civil war raging next door in Syria. Lawmakers have been unable to agree on a compromise candidate for the presidency. The Shiite Muslim Hezbollah group and its allies have boycotted the voting, insisting that politicians agree on a consensus candidate to be elected ahead of time. Failure to agree on a consensus president could make things harder for the government at a crucial time while it struggles with sectarian violence and an influx of over a million Syrian refugees. The group’s opponents have accused it of obstructing the
democratic process. The Lebanese are split in two camps, one supportive of Syrian President Bashar Assad and the other supportive of the rebels fighting to oust him. According to Lebanon’s sectarian-based power-sharing system, the president must be a Maronite Christian, the prime minister a Sunni Muslim and the
parliament speaker a Shiite Muslim. A two-thirds quorum of the legislature’s 128 members is required for an electoral session. Wednesday’s vote could not be held as dozens of lawmakers, many of them allied with Hezbollah, did not show up. Only 73 lawmakers attended the
session. With no quorum, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri adjourned the session and scheduled a fourth round for May 15. Lebanese elections are traditionally influenced by international and regional actors and presidents get elected only after securing the necessary consensus among Lebanon’s perpetually feuding politicians.
A portrait done by cartoonist Zhu Zizun of China’s President Xi Jinping, is seen during China International Cartoon and Animatian Festival in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, April 29, 2014.
US Warns Of Plot To Attack Churches
KAMPALA - The United States has received intelligence of a “specific terrorist threat” against churches and other places of worship in the Ugandan capital, its embassy there said. A security message on the embassy’s website did not say who was planning the
S/Sudan President, Rebel Chief To Meet Tomorrow
ADDIS ABABA South Sudan’s president and rebel chief will meet for direct talks Friday in Ethiopia in a bid to stem a brutal civil war, mediators from the bloc of regional nations said yesterday. Mediators from the East African IGAD-bloc of nations said the “critical meeting will help end the violence and killings in South Sudan”, and act as a key step towards finding an “inclusive and lasting political solution to the crisis,” a statement read.
attack, but Somali Islamist militants have previously threatened, and struck, Uganda and other east African countries that have sent troops into Somalia. “The threat information indicates a group of attackers may be preparing to strike places of worship in Kampala, particularly churches, including some that may be frequented by expatriates, in May or June,” said the notice dated May 6. Regional economies have been on a heightened state of
alert since militants killed at least 67 people, including children, when they rampaged through an upscale Kenyan shopping mall in September. Somalia’s al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab group claimed responsibility. Kenya has also suffered a string of gun and bomb attacks, most recently over the weekend in Nairobi and the port city of Mombasa. The government blamed them on al Shabaab and its sympathizers.
UN Officials Meet With Ukraine Govt
KIEV - The United Nations’ under-secretarygeneral for political affairs has arrived in Kiev to meet with Ukraine’s interim government. Jeffrey Feltman met with Ukraine’s acting president Oleksandr Turchynov early yesterday. British Foreign Secretary William Hague also arrived in Ukraine to speak with the nation’s leaders. The U.S. and European nations have increased diplomatic efforts ahead of Ukraine’s May 25
presidential election, as a pro-Russian insurgency continues to rock the country’s eastern regions. Feltman was in Moscow on Tuesday and met Gennady Gatilov, a deputy foreign minister. Speaking in a BBC interview, Hague lent his support to the election. He says Ukrainians “cannot be bullied out of having their elections by disorder that is deliberately fomented and coordinated from another country, in this instance Russia.”
In 2010, al Shabaab bombers killed 77 people watching the World Cup soccer final in a bar and restaurant in Kampala. In March, the Ugandan authorities warned of a militant plot to strike petrol tankers and fuel depots. Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and Burundi as well as Djibouti and Sierra Leone have all sent troops into Somalia to crush al Shabaab. The group, bent on imposing its version of Islamic law across Somalia, has turned increasingly to al Qaeda-inspired suicide attacks as a military offensive weakens it as a conventional fighting force.
PUBLIC NOTICE
MISSING/LOST CERTIFICATE
I, Hon. Justice Esther Amenaghawon Edigin wish to bring for the information of the general public that Mrs. Ekinadoese Omoregie is my biological daughter and to state that her certificate awarded by the authority of the University of Benin, Benin City, Department of Linguistic, Faculty of Arts has since been declared missing/lost on or about November, 2009 from the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria. All efforts made to recover the said degree certificate were not successful. The University of Benin, Benin City, concerned authorities and the general public should please take note. Signed: Hon. Justice E.A. Edigin CHANGE OF NAME
CHANGE OF NAME
AGHAFUA - I, formerly known as Ogiemwense Isaac Oghafua now wish to be known, called and addressed as Chief Isaac Ebuehi Oghafua Oyeoba (JP). All former documents remain valid. General public and concerned authorities please take note.
ODIGIE – I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Odigie Osarugue Vera now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Igbinoba Osarugue Vera. All former documents remain valid. General public and concerned authorities please take note.
CHANGE OF NAME
C O N F I R M AT I O N OF NAME I, Edo-Izevbuwa Bunmi Osamagioghomwenwi wish to bring for the information of the general public that I am the same person as Izebuwa Bunmi Osasi and Edo-Izebuwa Bunmi Osas as appeared in my various documents. Henceforth, I am now properly known and addressed a Edo-Izevbuwa B u n m i Osamagioghomwenwi. All former documents remain valid. General public and concerned authorities please take note
ODIGIE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nosa Chelsea Odigie now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nosa Chelsea Osawaye. All former documents remain valid. General public and concerned authorities please take note.
Thai Caretaker Cabinet Appoints New Acting PM BANGKOK — Thailand’s caretaker Cabinet has appointed a new acting prime minister after a court removed Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from office. Yingluck and nine Cabinet members were forced from power yesterday by the Constitutional Court, which found her guilty of abuse of power.
Shortly after the ruling, her remaining Cabinet announced that Deputy Prime Minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan would become the interim leader. The judgment marks the latest twist in Thailand’s long-running political crisis. But it does little to resolve the turmoil as it leaves the country in limbo and primed for more violence.
announced Dzhemilev had been awarded the prize. “He is someone who, together with his people, has demonstrated that democracy is possible.” The Tatars are a Turkicspeaking Muslim community who make up about 12 percent of Crimea’s two million-strong population. Many Tatars were uneasy about coming back under Moscow’s control, especially as they were persecuted during Soviet rule. Dzhemilev, who until last year led the body that
represents Crimean Tatars, publicly opposed Russia’s annexation of Crimea. He said Crimea’s new Moscowbacked authorities last month banned him from entering the peninsula for five years. Dzhemilev will visit Poland next month to receive his prize, Sikorski said. The Polish prize, in its first year, is intended to recognize people who embody the same democratic values as Lech Walesa, the leader of Poland’s Solidarity trade union movement who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in overthrowing Communist rule in Poland in the 1980s
Poland Awards Prize To Crimean Tatar Leader Radoslaw Sikorski, as he
WARSAW - Poland yesterday awarded a prize for championing democracy and human rights to Mustafa Dzhemilev, a leader of the Tatar community in Ukraine’s Crimea peninsula who says he was barred from the region after Russia annexed it. The choice of laureate for the inaugural “Solidarity Prize” is likely to irk Russia, which is locked in a stand-off with Ukraine that has sunk relations with the West to their lowest level since the Cold War. “He is a defender of Ukraine’s integrity,” said Polish Foreign Minister
International US Denounces Referendum Plans WASHINGTON — The Obama administration In East Ukraine denounced as illegal a planned
Greece’s Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras arrives for a meeting of EU Finance Ministers at the European Council building in Brussels, Tuesday.
weekend referendum by proRussian insurgents pushing for autonomy and independence for portions of eastern Ukraine. Secretary of State John Kerry said Tuesday the referendum set for Sunday would be “bogus” and not recognized by the West. In March, Moscow supported an independence referendum in the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea, which led to its annexation by Russia. Leaders of the antigovernment movement say they plan to hold a referendum on autonomy in the areas of Donetsk and Luhansk, although no preparations for the vote have yet been seen. “We flatly reject this illegal effort to further divide Ukraine,” Kerry told reporters after meeting at the State
South Africans Vote: Ruling Party JOHANNESBURG — South Africans voted yesterday in elections that are expected to see the ruling African National Congress return to power despite a vigorous challenge from opposition parties seeking to capitalize on discontent with corruption and economic inequality. Many people had lined up before polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (0500 GMT) for the fifth all-race elections in South Africa since the end of white minority rule in 1994. Some 22,000 voting stations were operating at schools, places of worship, tribal authority sites and hospitals, and several dozen vehicles serving as mobile voting stations were heading to remote areas to meet people. About 25 million South Africans, roughly half the population, have registered to vote in the parliamentary elections that will also determine the president. The government urged South Africans, particularly young people with the opportunity to vote for the first time, to go to the polls early to avoid bottlenecks later in the day and said security measures were sufficient to ensure peaceful elections. Nearly 2,000 military personnel are assisting police in keeping order around the country. Callers to South Africa’s Radio 702 described a smooth process at some polling stations, and delays at others. Mosotho Moepya, chief electoral officer at South Africa’s election commission, said there were a few isolated incidents of disruption and that officials were working to overcome them. Eyewitness News, a South African media outlet, said three voting tents were set on fire during overnight protests in Bekkersdal, a township in South Africa’s most populous province, Gauteng, where residents have complained about what they describe as inadequate government services. Dozens of police and military vehicles were deployed in Bekkersdal in recent days. The African National Congress, which led the fight against apartheid, has dominated politics since Nelson Mandela was elected as South Africa’s
Favoured
first black president in 1994. On the ruling party’s watch, millions of people have gained access to water and other basic services, but protests routinely erupt in areas where residents say the government has ignored their needs. There is also increasing
concern about corruption. President Jacob Zuma has become enmeshed in a scandal surrounding more than $20 million in state spending on his private home, though he denies any wrongdoing and has promised to work against graft. In the last election in 2009, the
African National Congress fell just short of a two-thirds majority. Its main rivals this year are the Democratic Alliance, a centrist party led by former journalist and anti-apartheid activist Helen Zille, and the Economic Freedom Fighters, headed by Julius Malema, a former head of the ruling party’s youth league who wants to redistribute wealth to the poor.
Department with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton. “It’s pursuit will create even more problems in the effort to try to de-escalate the situation.” He added: “This is really the Crimea playbook all over again, and no civilized nation is going to recognize the results of such a bogus effort.” Although Russia has de facto control over Crimea, few nations recognize the move. The United States and Europe have hit Russia with sanctions over the annexation and Moscow’s continued destabilizing actions in mainly Russian-speaking east Ukraine. In a nod to the West’s refusal to recognize Crimea as part of Russia, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki on Tuesday responded to a reporter’s question about a potential visit to the region by Russian President Vladimir Putin by saying: “I hope he enjoys his visit to Ukraine.” U.S. officials have said all Ukrainians should vote on their future governance in nationwide elections set for May 25. President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel said last week they’d move to impose harsher sanctions against Russia if it seeks to disrupt the elections. Testifying before the Senate
Foreign Relations Committee, the top U.S. diplomat for Europe, Victoria Nuland, said Tuesday that Russian recognition of another separatist referendum and Russian peacekeepers entering Ukraine would be triggers for the sanctions. If “broad swaths” of Ukraine cannot hold elections, she said, that might be another. Both Kerry and Ashton lambasted Russia for failing to abide by an agreement to deescalate tensions in the east and threatened that any move by Moscow to annex additional parts of Ukraine would be met by new sanctions. Such sanctions, they said, would go beyond penalties already imposed on Russian officials and executives close to Putin and apply to entire sectors of the Russian economy, such as defense, finance and energy. In Ukraine Ukrainian troops tightened a security cordon around a major insurgent-held eastern city but pro-Russia militias acted with impunity elsewhere in the turbulent region bordering Russia, surrounding a major Interior Ministry base. Thirty pro-Russia insurgents and four government troops were killed Monday in operations to expunge antigovernment forces around the city of Slovyansk, Ukraine’s interior minister said Tuesday. Rebels said 10 people — fighters and civilians — were killed by Ukrainian troops during clashes Monday. They would not elaborate and there was no immediate way to reconcile the figures.
Greece Won’t Seek More Bailout Money
Early morning voters hold up their identification documents as they queue to vote at a polling station that was burned down overnight in the politically-sensitive mining town of Bekkersdal, South Africa yesterday. South Africans went to the polls yesterday in elections that are likely to see the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party return to power with a smaller majority due to voters disaffected by corruption in Government and Economic Inequality.
China’s Xi Stresses Benefits Of Ties After Taiwan Protest BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping said yesterday that economic integration between China and Taiwan was mutually beneficial, would bring positive results for both sides and should not be disturbed, state media reported. Protesters occupied Taiwan’s parliament and mounted mass protests over a three-week period starting in March in anger at a trade pact between China and Taiwan, which they fear will benefit wealthy companies with Chinese links and undermine Taiwan’s cherished democratic
institutions. It was the largest anti-Beijing protest in years on the island, where Nationalist forces fled in 1949 after losing to the Communists in a civil war. Xi, meeting with former Taiwan presidential candidate and politician James Soong in Beijing, appeared to address those protests indirectly, saying China wanted to know more about the concerns of people in Taiwan. “Based on the concept that both sides of the Taiwan Strait are of one family, there is no
difficulty that cannot be overcome as long as each side feels for the other and treats the other with sincerity,” Xinhua news agency quoted Xi as saying. “We’d like to know more about the practical needs of the Taiwan people, especially those of the grassroots, and take proactive and effective steps to take care of vulnerable groups.” China will not change its policy of promoting the peaceful development of relations and will pursue pragmatic measures to boost exchanges, cooperation
and mutual benefit, Xi added. Run as a dictatorship for decades after 1949, Taiwan developed democratic institutions from the 1980s and now has a lively legislature, free elections and a vibrant free media, in stark contrast to Communist-led China. The pact would open 80 Chinese service sectors to Taiwan investment and 64 Taiwanese sectors to the mainland. Protesters were particularly angry about the opening of sensitive sectors such as printing and advertising.
ATHENS — Greece’s prime minister says the debtstrapped country will not ask for any additional bailout money and hopes to begin abolishing austerity taxes later this year. In an interview with private Antenna television, Antonis Samaras said Tuesday that Greece would not seek additional support beyond the 240 billion euros ($335 billion) already granted in bailout packages from other euro zone countries and the International Monetary Fund. Samaras’ conservatives face a strong challenge from the left wing anti-bailout Syriza party, Syriza, which wants to win European Parliament elections in Greece this month — to possibly pressure his government to resign. The prime minister’s Socialist coalition partners have suffered a collapse in popular support since the first bailout agreement four years ago, as the country suffered a mass rise in unemployment and poverty.
International Features
Court Orders Thai PM To Step Down
A Thai court found Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra guilty of violating the constitution yerterday and said she must step down, prolonging a political crisis that has led to violent protests and brought the economy close to recession. The decision is bound to anger supporters of Yingluck, but the court did allow ministers not implicated in the case against her to stay in office, a move that could take some of the sting out of any backlash on the streets. After the ruling, the cabinet said Commerce Minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongphaisan, who is also a deputy prime minister, would replace Yingluck, and the caretaker government would press ahead with plans for a July 20 election. Yingluck, who faced six months of sometimes deadly protests in the capital, Bangkok, aimed at toppling her government, thanked the Thai people in a televised news conference. “Throughout my time as prime minister I have given my all to my work for the benefit of my countrymen ... I have never committed any unlawful acts as I have been accused of doing,” Yingluck said, smiling and outwardly upbeat. “From now on, no matter what situation I am in, I will walk on the path of democracy. I am sad that I will not be able to serve you after this.” Despite her removal from power, there is no obvious end in sight to the turmoil in Thailand, with protesters still pushing for political reforms before new elections. The judge who delivered the verdict at the Constitutional Court said Yingluck had abused her position by transferring a security chief to another post in 2011 so that a relative could benefit from subsequent job moves. “The accused was involved in the transfer of Thawil Pliensri from his position as National Security Council head,” the judge said, adding that this was done so that Priewpan Damapong, a relative, could “gain a new position”. “The accused acted for her own political benefit ... The transfer wasn’t done for the benefit of the country,” he added. Yingluck, a businesswoman until entering politics to lead her party to victory in a 2011 election, denied wrongdoing in court on Tuesday. She was not present yesterday It was not immediately clear if she could appeal or if she faced a ban on participation in politics and other penalties. Thailand’s drawn-out political crisis broadly pits Bangkok’s middle class and royalist establishment against mainly poor, rural supporters of Yingluck and her brother, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra. He was ousted by the military in 2006 and lives in exile to avoid a jail sentence handed down in 2008 for abuse of power. Yingluck’s supporters accuse the Constitutional Court of bias in frequently ruling against governments loyal to Thaksin. In 2008, the court forced two prime ministers linked to Thaksin from office. Some legal experts had expected the court to remove her entire government. Instead, it ruled that nine ministers linked to the case should step down but others could remain, leaving Yingluck’s ruling party in charge of a caretaker government. “We were bracing ourselves for this verdict. Everything our enemies do is to cripple the democratic process,” said Jatuporn Prompan, the leader of pro-Shinawatra “red shirt” activists. “The court chose a middle way today.” Asked about a vow to resist Yingluck’s removal that had raised fears of violence between rival factions, Jatuporn replied:
“There is no reason why we should take up arms. We will rally peacefully as planned on May 10.” In Thailand the prime minister is normally elected by the lower house of parliament, but that was dissolved in December when Yingluck called a snap election to try to defuse protests. From that point, she headed a caretaker administration with limited powers. The election in February was disrupted and later declared void by the Constitutional Court. Yingluck and the Election Commission agreed last week that a new ballot should be
held on July 20, but that date has not been formally approved and it is bound to be opposed again by protesters. Thaksin or his loyalists have won every election since 2001 and would probably win again. The former telecoms tycoon won huge support in rural areas and among the urban poor with populist policies such as cheap healthcare and loans. But his enemies say he is a corrupt crony capitalist who harbors republican sympathies, which he denies. The anti-government protesters say they want to end Thaksin’s influence over politics,
Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra attends her cabinet economic meeting at the office of the Permanent Secretary of Defence in Bangkok recently.
which is considerable despite him being based abroad, and are demanding reform of the electoral system before new polls. When they failed to achieve their aims in the street, Yingluck’s opponents turned to legal challenges to remove her. A leader of the anti-government protesters, who are based in a central Bangkok park, welcomed the court’s decision to remove Yingluck but said their campaign would go on. “Of course, there is celebration here today but we still have not completed our goals, which are reforms and a delayed general election,” said Samdin Lertbutr. “Even though she is gone, they are still the caretaker government,” Samdin told journalist adding that a big rally planned for May 14 would go ahead. Ongoing turmoil would make matters worse for Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, already suffering from weak exports, a yearlong slump in industrial output, a drop in tourism and a caretaker government with curtailed powers. The army, which has staged numerous coups since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, has stayed out of the turmoil, as has King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The king, who is 86, has intervened to defuse previous crises but has not commented since this one blew up late last year. The divide between the poor and what they see as the establishment elite represents a collapse of a traditional order in Thailand at a time when people have begun to broach the hitherto taboo topic of succession. Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn does not command the same devotion as his father, the world’s longest-reigning monarch. (Reuters).
HUNDREDS of Syrian rebels yesterday began evacuating their last bastions in the central city of Homs under a ceasefire deal struck last week with government forces, opposition activists and the city’s governor said. The exit of some 1,200 fighters from rebel strongholds in Homs will mark a de-facto end of the rebellion in the battered city, which was one of the first places to rise up against President Bashar Assad’s rule, earning its nickname as “the capital of the revolution.” Around mid-morning yesterday, dozens of fighters boarded five buses that arrived at the police command on the edge of the rebel-held areas ahead of the evacuation, opposition activists said. Afterward, two of the buses left the city, heading north. An activist who goes by the name of Abu Yassin al-Homsi said all fighters and any remaining civilians were expected to leave the city during the day, adding that they would be taken a few kilometers (miles) north to the rebel held towns of Talbiseh and al-Dar alKabira on the northern edge of Homs province — a short drive away. Later, al-Homsi confirmed later that the first group of fighters that evacuated the city center “arrived safely” in rebel-held areas north of the province. Each fighter was allowed to carry his rifle and a bag of belongings with him. One rocket propelled grenade launcher and a machinegun were also allowed on each bus, he said. “We are very sad for what is happening today. We kept urging the international community to lift the siege but there was no response,” al-Homsi said. “We have lost more than 2,000 martyrs in nearly two years of siege.” Homs governor Talal Barazi also confirmed
its ancient bazaars. The siege caused severe shortages in food and medicine. Earlier this year, around 1,400 people, including fighters who surrendered, were evacuated from the city in a U.N.-mediated operation. Homs has also seen the ever-increasing religious dimension of the conflict, with titfor-tat sectarian killings in the city where majority Sunni Muslims once lived alongside Christians and Alawites. Most recently, on April 7, a masked gunman killed a beloved, elderly Dutch priest who lived in a monastery in a Homs rebel-held district after deciding to stay alongside civilians who were unable to leave. While the agreement represents a demoralizing admission of defeat by opposition forces, it can also be seen as a facesaving deal for both sides. Weakened rebels, for whom Homs’ collapse was only a matter of time, get a safe exit, while the government can save manpower and weapons and claim it was able to retake the last rebel bastions without spilling more blood. In exchange for their evacuation, activists say opposition fighters will allow aid into two northern pro-government villages, Nubul and Zahra, besieged by the rebels. Director of the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Rami Abdurrahman, said roads to Nubul and Zahra in northern Syrian were opened as the evacuations from Homs started yesterday, apparently to allow the flow of aid. As part of the Homs deal, rebels would also release up to 70 pro-government gunmen and an Iranian woman they hold captive in the northern city of Aleppo, several activists said. It was not immediately clear whether they had been released. (AP).
Rebels Begin Evacuating Syrian City Of Homs that the rebels have started leaving the old districts of Homs. It was a bitter moment for the exhausted rebels, who have been holed up in the historic quarters of Homs where they had pledged to fight till the end. Some fighters had said they would rather die than give up Homs. Isolated and battered after months of bombardment and blockades that caused widespread hunger, they agreed last Friday to a cease-fire deal that would allow hundreds of fighters to evacuate from 13 neighborhoods around the city’s historic center where they had barricaded themselves. The rebels include hardcore fighters from the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front group and other Islamic factions. Their exit hands over to Assad’s forces a strategic but largely destroyed city ahead of presidential elections scheduled to be held on June 3. Once the evacuation is completed, the government will have control of all but one area of Homs, the rebel-held Waer district just outside the Old City. Some activists said negotiations were underway for a similar deal there. Homs, Syria’s third largest city located in the central western plains, was among the first to rise up against Assad in early 2011 with waves of exuberant anti-Assad protests. It quickly came under a series of crushing government offensives, turning into a battleground that left entire blocks and much of its historic quarters in ruins. Thousands of people were killed and almost all its residents fled. For well over a year, the government forces have been besieging rebels in the string of districts they held in the city center, around
Crucifixion Of The Son Of Man And God, The Lord’s Supper (II) Nature IT is a great mistake for men to believe that through the death on the cross the forgiveness of their sins is guaranteed. This thought is followed by the terrible harm that all those who believe this are held back from the true road to redemption, which lies only and solely in living the word of the saviour, according to the explanations given by Him, who knew and could overlook all. And these explanations give practical examples of the need to obey and observe the Divine will as expressed in the laws of creation and also show what happens if it, is obeyed and what follows on disobedience. Abd-ru-shin says His work of Redemption lay in bringing this enlightenment, which exposed the defects and abuses of religious practices because, it carried the Truth within itself and thus, brought light into the ever-increasing darkness of the human spirit. His work of Redemption did not lie in His death on the cross, neither can Holy Communion nor the consecrated Host bring immediate forgiveness of sins such a thought is contrary to all Divine law And cones Quently the power of man to forgive sins falls away. A man only has the right and also, the power to forgive what he has personally suffered at the hands of another and then only when quite freely his heart bids him do it. He who seriously reflects upon these things will recognize the Truth and thus, the true path. Those, however, who are too indolent to think and who like the foolish virgins in the parable, are too lazy to exercise the necessary care and attention to keep in constant order and readiness the little lamp left to them by the creator, i.e, their ability to examine and illuminate, may easily miss the hour when the “word of Truth “ comes to them. As they allowed themselves to be lulled into inert ease and blind faith they will consequently through their slothfulness be incapable of recognising the Bringer of Truth, the Bridegroom. They will then perforce stay behind when the wakeful enter into the kingdom of Bliss. If Thou art the son of God come down from the cross and save Thyself and us. These
were the scornful words addressed to the son of God as He hung in agony on the cross in the burning rays of the sun. Abd-ru-shin says those who shouted this considered themselves specially clever. They scoffed, they triumphed and they laughed hatefully
those who still believe in God and in the Mission of His Son at that time are quite convinced that Jesus of Nazareth could have come down from the cross if He had only so willed. Abd-ru-shin opines that after two thousand years, there is still the same sluggish
body. In obedience to the Will of God, Christ voluntarily submitted to this law. He did not come to overthrow it, but to fulfil it through becoming flesh on this earth. Abd-ru-shin says that He was therefore, bound to everything in the same way as man on earth is bound. Even
without any real cause, for surely, Christ’s sufferings were no reason for mockery and ridicule, much less for laughter. If but for one moment they could have “seen” the simultaneous happenings the Ethereal and spiritual Realm, where their souls were being firmly bound for thousands of years their laughter would have ceased. Even though their punishment could not become immediately visible in the material world, it did come in all the subsequent earth –lives which these wicked souls were forced to live on accord of it. The scoffers of that time thought themselves clever, but they could have given no better proof of their limitation than these words, for they reveal the most childish view one can think of. Those who speak thus are far from understanding creation and the will of God operating therein. How depressing and sad it therefore, is to know that even today a great number of
obtuseness, no change or progress. According to the naïve opinions of many believer, Christ having issued from God, must be unrestricted in His actions
as the son of God, with all His Divine might and power, He could not come down from the cross as long as He was in a physical body of flesh and blood. That would have been
With O.C. MADU 08056379608
sphere and also, in God Himself Divine Activity, Divine power and might, never unduly obtrude them selves. Abd-ru –shin mentions that they never unduly obtrude themselves. The Divine only lives in the strict fulfillment of the Divine Will and never wishes to do anything else. The same holds true for the human being who is highly developed spirituathy. The more highly matured he is the more strictly he submet to the Divine laws in Creation, voluntarily and joyfully . But he will never expect arbitraryacts which lie outside the valid laws of creation, because, he believes in the perfection of the Divine will. If a physical body is firmly nailed to the cross, it cannot free itself without extraneous physical help. That is the law according to the Divine will in creation which permits of no exception. He who thinks differently and expects something else, does not believe in the perfection of God and in the immutability of His will. Those men still have not changed despite their alleged progress in the sciences and in their abilities that they still stand where they stood in those times, is demonstrated when today they again call out. If He is the son of man He can bring about the catastrophes that have been prophesied as soon as He so will”. To them this is a foregone
They doubt the son of man and doubt the son of God’s word. It is also, a proof of their lack of understanding of the entire creation and of their complete ignorance just in all those questions which it is so urgently necessary for every man to know. If in becoming the son of God had to submit to the will of God in Creation, it is evident that the son of man also, cannot stand above those laws. Indeed it is utterly impossible to stand above these laws in Creation. He who enters Creation thereby, also, becomes subject to the law of the Divine will, which never changes. Thus, also the son of God and the son of man. A great handicap to their ability to comprehend all these things is imposed upon men by the fact that they have, never sought these laws in Creation and thus, except from small fragments upon which they happened to stumble here and there, they have had no knowledge of them up to today. Abd-ru-shin the author of Grail Message says when Christ performed miracles that are quite beyond man’s ability, this does not justify the thought that He did not need to observe the Laws of the Divine Will resting in Creation, that He reached out beyond them. That is impossible. Even with miracles. He acted in complete accordance with the
“This Divine Will, however, has been perfect from the very beginning, every where, not only in the world of gross matter here on earth, but also, in the Ethereal world and in the worlds of Animistic and spiritual subdivisions and transitional stages.” here on earth. To expect this shows, both poverty of intellect and inertia in thinking. Through becoming flesh, the Son of God was also, “placed under the law”, that is, He subjected Himself to the laws of Creation, the unalterable will of God in creation. There could be no change in connection with the physical and earth bound
equivalent to upsetting the Divine Will in Creation. This Divine Will, however, has been perfect from the very beginning, every where, not only in the world of gross matter here on earth, but also, in the Ethereal world and in the worlds of Animistic and spiritual subdivisions and transitional stages. Just the same as in the Divine
conclusion. In other, however, this means that “If He cannot do so, He is not the son of God yet men are very well aware, as Christ the son of God Himself already pointed out, that no one but God the Father knows the hour in which the judgment begins. Therefore, if men now utter the afore-mentioned words, they express a double doubt.
laws of God and not arbitrarity. He only proved thereby that He worked in Divine power, not in spiritual power and naturally the effects also, far surpassed what is possible to men Nevertheless these miracles were not performed independent of the laws in creation, but were completely in accordance with them.
Giggs Unperturbed By Future Uncertainty RYAN Giggs insists he is unworried about the delay in determining whether he will have a future at Manchester United. Ryan Giggs replaces Tom Lawrence for what might be his final appearance at Old Trafford. And the interim manager, whose playing deal expires in the summer, believes the out-ofcontract pair of Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand are similarly unconcerned. United will wait until a new manager is appointed before deciding if they want to keep the three veterans on the playing staff and each could only have one game left of his career at the club. The 40-year-old Giggs brought himself on for his 963rd United appearance in Tuesday’s 3-1 win over Hull and has yet to announce if he will retire. “I have not decided yet,” he said in a news conference. “Nothing has changed, I will wait until the season has finished and then get a holiday and think about it in the next couple of weeks.” Giggs believes he, Evra and Ferdinand will know their fate in the next few weeks but also expects United to sign players in their positions. He added: “For myself, it is
Ryan Giggs
pretty relaxed. I don’t know if it is the same with Rio and Patrice, I expect it is, it is not as if they are young players and they are up in the air. If they carry on, they carry on and if they leave, they leave. New players are going to come in anyway, whether they stay so it is up in the air but in the next couple of weeks, I think it will get sorted [for] the three of us.” United are keen to keep Giggs in a coaching capacity with Louis van Gaal expected to be appointed as the successor to the sacked David Moyes as manager. But Giggs is unsure of the timescale for an appointment, saying: “It could be the next few days, it could be the next couple of weeks. Nothing has changed since Saturday.”
Felix Magath Vows To Stay At Fulham
Manager Brendan
We Will Fight For Title
LESS than 24 hours after conceding the Premier League title Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers promised the team would “fight for their lives as you never know what can happen”. After the damaging 3-3 draw at Crystal Palace the Northern Irishman suggested that the championship was destined for Manchester City. The Reds are still top of the league but Manuel Pellegrini’s side are only a point behind, with two matches still to play and a superior goal difference. But speaking to a captive audience at the club’s inaugural awards night, the Reds boss suggested there was still a glimmer of hope ahead of Sunday’s match against Newcastle. “This season the players have allowed the supporters to dream and for a club of this size and magnitude - to be a point ahead
at the top of the table with a week to go, you never know what can happen - it has been magnificent,” he said. “I promise for the time I am here we will fight for our lives and we won’t finish until Newcastle.” Rodgers, who received a standing ovation from his players after winning an outstanding achievement award less than two years into his tenure, maintained there were still positives to take from the season. He added: “Monday night was difficult. If you were in the changing room you would have felt how much it mattered to everyone.
- Rodgers
“The key thing to remember is the journey we are on is going to have good and bad times but through it all we have to stick together as that is the Liverpool way. “We will finish the season strong and keep going to strive to be the best.” Striker Luis Suarez, already a two-time player of the year after winning the Professional Footballers’ Association and Football Writers’ award, won the goal of the season, players’ player of the year and player of the year, voted for by fans. “He has thoroughly deserved it. As a team they have been outstanding but he has been
absolutely phenomenal,” added Rodgers. “The great thing about Luis Suarez is his professionalism. To play the games he plays to the level he plays takes huge professionalism. “I am delighted for him.” Captain Steven Gerrard believes Suarez is the man who will ensure a successful future for the club. “Luis seems to be cleaning up at the moment, he’s won everything, and we are lucky to have such a world-class talent like Luis playing here with us and helping us to great things and be successful,” said the England captain.
FELIX Magath has vowed to stay with Fulham despite their relegation and accepts the display in the 4-1 loss at Stoke on Saturday was unacceptable. Magath’s contract runs through next season, and he said he intends to honor it despite playing 2014-15 in the Championship. He said on Fulham’s website: “We as a team, and I include myself and management, would like to apologise for our bad performance on Saturday. It certainly was not what you as fans were expecting and should rightfully demand of us, but we were unable to perform on the day, resulting in our downfall. “The support that you have given us has been exceptional and is much appreciated. I do realise that you have been through difficult times this season, but you have continued to be our ever faithful 12th man and I cannot praise and thank you enough. “I was appointed by Mr Khan in February, and willingly signed a contract for 18 months, realising that there was a distinct possibility that we would not survive in the Premier League. Contrary to many opinions, I was not only brought in until the end of the season, with the primary target of keeping Fulham in the Premier League, but to build a team that can compete in the top flight. “The reality is that we have been relegated, but my commitment and desire to Fulham remains. “In the short space of time that I have spent here, I have been very impressed with so many aspects of our football club, and with this in mind, my one priority is to give Premier League football back to you.”
United To Wait To Name Job Is Still Not Done - Poyet New Boss
MANCHESTER United will not appoint a manager before the end of the Premier League season. There was widespread expectation that Louis van Gaal would be confirmed as David Moyes’ successor on Wednesday but sources have told ESPN FC that no announcement is likely until after Sunday’s game at Southampton.
Van Gaal
United have been in talks with Netherlands boss Van Gaal, who will leave his post with the Dutch national team after the summer’s World Cup, but they have not been concluded. Van Gaal has begun a training camp with the Netherlandsbased members of his preliminary World Cup squad and it had been thought that the 62-year-old was keen to tie up a
deal with the 2013 Premier League champions before it began. The former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager emerged as the favourite to replace Moyes after the Scot was sacked on April 22. Player-coach Ryan Giggs has served as United’s interim manager for the last three games and will be at the helm again at St Mary’s, but he is not being considered for the post due to his lack of experience. Giggs said in his news conference after Tuesday’s 3-1 win over Hull: “Nothing has changed since Saturday. It could be the next few days, it could be the next couple of weeks [when a manager is appointed].” United have been determined not to rush their search for their next manager but are also keen to proceed with their summer transfer business while three senior players — Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra — are out of contract and their futures will not be determined until an appointment is made.
HEAD coach Gus Poyet is refusing to take anything for granted after dragging Sunderland to within touching distance of safety. The Black Cats looked doomed just a few weeks ago when they slipped seven points adrift of 17th place in the Barclays Premier League, and few observers gave them any chance of avoiding the drop. However, a return of 10 points from a possible 12 - from trips to Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United either side of a must-win home clash with Cardiff - has rekindled their hopes to such an extent that even a point against West Brom at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night would almost certainly be enough to preserve their topflight status. But having seen Crystal Palace launch an astonishing late fightback to deny titlecontenders Liverpool victory on Monday evening, Poyet will leave nothing to chance. Asked if he ever feared Sunderland had passed the point of no return, he said: “We are realistic - I have said that word here many, many times,
‘realistic’. It was becoming more and more difficult. “When you have got 10 games, you think, ‘If we win four or five, we are going to be all right’. Then you have got six and you are still there - it’s more difficult, no doubt. “We hadn’t won three games in a row in the whole season and we have done it now in style Chelsea, at Old Trafford and at home against Cardiff when that was probably the biggest game of all. “That’s football, I suppose. Listen, after the game yesterday, I think we all agree that anything can happen at any time, so you need to be spot-on, especially in the Barclays Premier League. “You need to be at an incredible level because even in other parts sometimes when a team goes 3-0 down, they think ‘Let’s lose 3-0 now, there’s no chance we are going to get back’. But here, yes, you can come back. “It was good that game for us, it was good. It was a little bit back to tension, back to tomorrow, to the end, to the last
minute like we did at Old Trafford. “One-nil or 2-0 or whatever score it is if you are lucky enough to be up, you need to really work hard to keep that result because it’s a great opportunity.” Should Poyet complete the mission he was handed in October last year, he will head off on his summer break to enjoy a well-earned rest, although he admits there will still be hard work to be done before he can do that. He said: “There are so many things to do, I don’t know where I am going to start. But depending on Wednesday or Sunday, of course the first thing is the players. “There are plenty of players who have been in a tricky situation without contracts, and they have been playing and they have been fighting and they have been suffering and playing with pain, and I think they deserve my first spare time, so that’s going to be the first move. “Then, I suppose, pre-season, and then a little bit of relaxation with the wife - she’s going to kill me as well.”
CMYK
Blanc Unfazed By FFP Sanctions
LAURENT Blanc has shrugged off fears financial fair play (FFP) sanctions could slow Paris Saint-Germain’s rise to prominence, promising: “Paris will have a great team next year.” French media reported on 2012-13 campaign under Tuesday that UEFA, having Carlo Ancelotti having adjudged PSG to have already won the Coupe de la breached FFP regulations, Ligue and requiring just a will this week hit the club single win from their with a range of punishments remaining three games to aimed at restricting their defend their Ligue 1 crown. summer transfer activity, Following last summer’s forcing them to keep a tight arrivals of Edinson Cavani, rein on their wage bill and Marquinhos and Lucas likely limiting the size of Digne, Yohan Cabaye was the their Champions League sole addition to Blanc’s squad squad. in January, and a number of While that means Blanc’s new recruits would have been options will be more limited expected to arrive at the Parc than he might have expected des Princes as the club’s next season, the former ambitious Qatari owners Bordeaux and France coach continue working towards told media ahead of their aim of making PSG a Wednesday’s Ligue 1 global football superpower. encounter with Rennes that Speaking to Gazzetta dello PSG will still be a force to be Sport, PSG midfielder Thiago reckoned with in 2014-15. Motta saidhe would like no He said: “The sanctions fewer than six new players, have not been confirmed. But including France regardless of that, Paris will international and long-time have a great team next year. PSG target Paul Pogba, to They’ll have to be taken into arrive during the upcoming account, precisely target transfer window. things, be smart. “We need reinforcements, “When I see that we will one in each line at least,” the have the opportunity to Italy international said. “I recruit with certain means, would like to see players like we’ll be able to find good [David] Luiz, [Giorgio] players. And don’t forget that Chiellini, [Andrea] Pirlo, we already have very, very [Paul] Pogba, [Miralem] good players. I think we can Pjanic and Pedro to manage to improve this strengthen us psychologically team.” and technically for this Though they were knocked project. out of the Champions League “We could have done better at the quarterfinal stage for a this season. Chelsea seemed second successive season, to be better prepared, also under Blanc PSG are set to psychologically, but we could better the achievements of the have won the game, tactically.
Milan To Begin Rami Talks
MILAN are reportedly preparing to meet with Valencia to discuss the future of centre-back Adil Rami. The Rossoneri picked up the French international on an initial six-month loan deal midway through the season, with a purchase option of +7m included for this summer. Approaching the end of the season, speculation from the Corriere della Sera is that
Adil Rami
Milan officials are intent on making Rami’s San Siro switch permanent. However, the belief is that the club also want to negotiate the purchase option and that talks with Los Che, believed to be due soon, will centre on bringing that +7m down. Should Milan prove unsuccessful, it is seen that they will turn their attention to Paris Saint-Germain defender Alex.
That elimination just proves that we’re lacking something on a psychological level.” Thiago Motta believes they already have a player similar to Pirlo in their team with Marco Verratti, a player he would be more than happy
partnering at the World Cup this summer. “He’s unique, somebody you’ve got to take on face value,” he added. “I can play with Marco at PSG with my eyes closed, but there are other great players in the national team, like [Daniele] De Rossi.”
Laurent Blanc
THE Napoli fan who negotiated with captain Marek Hamsik prior to Saturday’s Coppa Italia final has been banned from attending sporting events for five years, while fans at the Stadio San Paolo on Tuesday night showed their support for the victim of a shooting in Rome at the weekend. Gennaro De Tommaso, known as “Genny ‘a Carogna,” climbed over the perimeter fencing of the Stadio Olimpico and spoke with Hamsik prior to the start of Saturday’s cup final, which commenced with a delay of 45 minutes as Napoli fans first threatened the game’s abandonment after hearing that a fan had been shot. He was wearing a shirt calling for the Catania fan who shot and killed a police officer in 2007 to be released from jail. “The same sanction will be applied to anybody else who wears a ‘Speziale libero’ shirt,” said Italy’s Interior Minister Angelino Alfano after announcing the ban. Meanwhile, at the Stadio San Paolo, Napoli’s fans expressed their support for the fan, Ciro Esposito, who was shot at the weekend, and who still remains in a critical condition in hospital, with
Napoli Fan Gets Five-Year Stadium Ban numerous banners around the ground. The celebrations for a 3-0 win over Cagliari were particularly subdued. “Ciro is in a serious condition, he’s in a coma,” said Esposito’s mother to RAI television. “I want justice to be done. My son’s more dead than he is alive. I want to appeal to the State, who have not yet said anything. Ciro is a good lad, a fan among fans, a normal lad who has never been involved in any fights.” Meanwhile, Napoli coach Rafael Benitez paid tribute to his team and Napoli’s fans for their performance and support on Tuesday night. “It wasn’t easy preparing this game at a time when we are all worried about the state of health of one of our fans,” said the Spaniard. “But we felt our duty to focus on the game and I think we set an example, as did our fans who were impeccable. “Things like [Saturday] should never happen. The authorities must find a solution. We as coaches should be talking about football, not these things.”
Messi Wants Barca Assurances
BEFORE signing a new Barcelona contract Lionel Messi wants assurances about the club’s plans to strengthen the squad, perhaps including the signing of Sergio Aguero from Manchester City, according to widespread reports in Spain. Messi’s current contract ends in June 2018 and contains a release clause of 250 million euros. Talks on an improved deal have been ongoing since last autumn, with the Argentine player’s camp reportedly keen to ensure a pay-rise to ensure he overtakes Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo and club colleague Neymar as the world’s best-paid player. Negotiations dragging on so long has led to speculation in Spain and elsewhere that other clubs — including City and even Real Madrid — might look to tempt the fourtime Ballon d’Or winner away from the Camp Nou. The latest meeting reportedly took place on Tuesday between Messi’s father and agent Jorge and Blaugrana vice-president Javier Faus and director general Antoni Rossich, details of which were widely leaked and spun in various Catalan media. Local paper Sport claimed that a future 20 million euro net annual salary has already been agreed, but Messi, 26, is keen to know the board’s plans for new signings before
he puts pen to paper — and has suggested his long-time friend and Argentina colleague Aguero should be brought to the Camp Nou from England. Catalan station TV3 also said that Messi was keen to play alongside Aguero for club as well as country, and that he would also like his friend Jose Pinto, 38, to get another year’s contract as back-up goalkeeper. They also said a deal could be sealed before May 19, when the Argentina captain leaves to join up with his national squad ahead of the World Cup.
Lionel Messi
Mundo Deportivo, which is considered to be particularly close to the Barca directors, said it was a “very positive meeting,” at which the Messi camp made clear their approval of the club’s plan to bring in current Celta Vigo boss Luis Enrique as coach for next season. MD also reported that another meeting between the Messi camp and Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu was planned, and could take place as early as Wednesday. Bartomeu was not present at Tuesday’s talks as he was in Zurich meeting with FIFA
president Sepp Blatter. Barca’s statement on that meeting made clear that Blatter would not intervene personally in the club’s appeal against the transfer ban imposed last month after it was found guilty of breaching youth transfer rules. “The meeting also dealt with general issues relating to the protection of minors, without touching on specifics given that President Blatter does not take any part in FIFA’s Disciplinary Commission’s decision making, or in FC Barcelona’s current appeal process,” the statement said.
Europa League
Cristiano Ronaldo Tips Neymar For Top CRISTIANO Ronaldo has told Brazilian channel SporTV that Neymar is a “great player” with the potential to one day become the best in the world. Ronaldo has done his chances of retaining the Ballon d’Or trophy no harm in recent weeks with his goals helping Real Madrid to secure a place in the Champions League final, while they remain in contention for the Spanish league title. Barcelona star Neymar has been making fewer headlines for his efforts on the pitch recently, with injuries hampering a disappointing second half of the season at the Camp Nou, although the Brazil international is set to return from a foot problem in good time for this summer’s World Cup on home soil. Ronaldo said that, although it is taking Neymar a while to show his best at Barcelona, he is sure he will ultimately prove a huge success. “I see Neymar as a great player,” the 29-year-old said. “I believe he has shown in recent times he is a player of the future, with huge potential to improve. His adaptation at Barcelona was not the best — he had some problems at the start — but I have no doubt that he has the potential to be one of the best players, or even the best player, in the world.” Asked about this summer’s World Cup, Portugal captain Ronaldo said it will be tough to emerge from a group also containing Germany, Ghana and the United States but he is optimistic his nation can make an impression. “We are not favourites, but we will go and try to enjoy ourselves,” he said. “We know we have a difficult group phase, in my opinion the strongest in the World Cup, but we will go step by step. We have an important game against the Germans in the first game, and then we must play Ghana and the United States to get through the group. Then we will see.”
Wayne Bridge
Kuipers And Brych To Referee European Finals BJORN Kuipers of the Netherlands will referee the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in Lisbon on May 24, UEFA announced yesterday. The 41-year-old Dutchman refereed last season’s Europa League final between Benfica and Chelsea in Amsterdam. This season’s Europa League final between Benfica and Sevilla in Turin next Wednesday will be under the control of German referee Felix Brych. The 38-year-old has taken charge of six Champions League
matches this season, including the quarter-final first leg between Barcelona and Atletico.
Bjorn Kuipers
French Club Appoint Female Coach FRENCH second division side Clermont Foot have named Helena Costa as their new coach, the first time a team in the top two divisions of one of Europe’s big five leagues has appointed a female manager. Iran women’s coach Costa, 39, has previously managed the Qatar and Benfica women’s sides. The Portuguese has also worked in men’s football, most notably as a scout for Scottish champions Celtic. “Costa has come through the ranks of Benfica’s coaching staff, although she has also managed the women’s teams of Qatar, Iran and Odivelas (a Portuguese women’s side). In addition she worked as a scout for Celtic,” Clermont said. Olivier Chavanon, a former player with Clermont, will join her as a sporting director. This is not the first time Costa has coached male teams. In addition to being a Celtic scout between 2008 and 2011, she successfully managed Benfica’s youth teams from U9 through to
U17s, and won the Lisbon regional championship with Portuguese lower-league team Cheleirense. Probably her greatest previous achievement in the male game are two World Youth titles for Benfica, with whom she also won a Portuguese national youth championship. Costa is one of the bestqualified coaches in the game, boasting a Masters degree in sports science, UEFA A license and authorship of several articles and seminars on coaching and sports. She has also commenced a PhD in Sports and PE in Lisbon. The only other woman to coach a professional men’s team in Europe has been Carolina Morace, who managed third-tier Italian side Viterbese for just two matches before quitting due to constant media pressure way back in 1999. However, there have been several female executives at top football clubs, while female referees are not uncommon in Europe.
LIONEL Messi has told ESPN FC he is confident he can finally shine at the World Cup this summer as he looks to captain Argentina to glory. Asked whether he expects to play a different role under Messi has enjoyed great Alejandro Sabella in Brazil this success with Barcelona as well as summer, he said: “Well, it is four helping Argentina to the Underyears later. I am more confident, 20 World Cup title in 2005 and as you would expect, with more gold at the Olympics three years experience. later, but the 26-year-old has yet “Having experienced two to truly deliver in the game’s World Cups, now I am the most prestigious competition. captain of this national team. He had limited involvement in Even though I’ve said before that 2006, scoring one goal as Jose wearing the captain’s band Pekerman’s side exited at the doesn’t change how I interact quarterfinal stage, and although with my teammates on the pitch he was a key figure in Diego or off it, wearing the band is Maradona’s 2010 team, he was something very special. But, oh unable to add to his World Cup well, we will try to give tally as Argentina’s campaign everything to achieve the ended with a shock 4-0 defeat to objective that those of us from Germany after reaching the last Argentina want.” eight.
He warned, however, that Argentina will have to be fully focused as they prepare to face Bosnia-Herzegovina, Nigeria and Iran in Group F. “Lots of people may think that it is an easy group, that Argentina will qualify without any problems,” he added. “We don’t think like that. We think that in a World Cup there are no easy groups, that all the games will be complicated. “For us it will be important to win the first game, to start well, to give the team confidence because it calms you to win the first game. But it is a balanced group. Maybe in other groups there are national teams with more important names, but I think all the groups are balanced.”
Neymar
Wayne Bridge Announces Retirement
FORMER England defender Wayne Bridge has retired from football after a season plagued by injury. Bridge joined Reading last summer but played just 12 games for the Royals, sustaining a knee injury that required surgery in November and returning only in the final weeks of the campaign. The 33-year-old left-back was a long-time deputy to Ashley Cole in the England team, winning 36 caps in an international career that ran from 2002 to 2009. He announced the end of his England career before the 2010 World Cup, following newspaper allegations
regarding his former girlfriend and his international teammate John Terry. At the time, Bridge said his place in the squad was “untenable and potentially divisive.” Bridge’s retirement was announced by his management company Icon Sports, which stated on Twitter: “Wayne Bridge has today announced his retirement from football. A career in which he won a premier league, fa cup, league cup and earn 36 England Caps. From all at Icon, we wish him very happy retirement.’’
Bridge began his career at Southampton, making his debut in 1998 and staying for five further years before spending five-and-a-half years at Chelsea, where he became a Premier League champion in 2005. He moved on to Manchester City in January 2009, going on to have loan spells with West Ham, Sunderland and Brighton and then finally signing for Reading on a oneyear deal.
Lionel Messi Ready To Deliver In Brazil
Volleyball Referee Calls For More Competitions A member of the Lagos State Volleyball Referees Association, Taiwo Kool, has urged that more competitions like the ongoing Ibile Games be organised to develop the skills of upcoming volleyball players. Kool told newsmen in Lagos on Tuesday that the quality of skills exhibited by secondary school students at the Games were high. According to him, they should be encouraged by engaging them in regular competitions. The Games, which started on April 30, will end on May 11. He said it was aimed at discovering new talents for the 19th National Sports Festival (NSF) to be hosted by Cross River State in Calabar. Kool suggested that more training and exposure were necessary to facilitate the development of the players up to national and international levels. He said there were schools that produced good players who exhibited high level of skills but unfortunately did not measure up to standard. “We had to put them through the fundamentals of the game but on average, it is not bad performances from them. “More training is needed for the students and the Games masters to ensure adequate exposure to current rules and regulations in the game. “And this can be done by conducting seminars or workshop, so that they can be taught these new rules and regulations,’’ Kool said. Kool, one of the referees at the ongoing Games, also said the students must endeavour to create time to sharpen their skills. “The problem we have with volleyball in Lagos State is the absence of regular competitions; if more competitions can be organised, there will be more improvements. “We can tap into the raw talents and bring them up so that they can become better players at national and international levels,’’ he said. Kool also stressed that volleyball was a simple game and with availability of facilities to assist the growth, players can be developed further. “If you have the upright poles and the net, you can play it anywhere; but we just need to have standard courts in many centres in Lagos’’.
2015 AYC: Tanzania Confirms Sunday For Qualifier
Dr Tamuno Danagogo, Sports Minister
2014 FIFA World Cup
TANZANIA on Tuesday confirmed that the second round, first leg of the 2015 African Youth Championship (AYC) qualifier against Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will be staged on Sunday. Flying Eagles Media Officer Samm Audu said in a statement in Abuja that the message was contained in an official correspondence by the Tanzania Football Federation. The statement, signed by its General Secretary, Mwesigwa Selestine, said the host federation apologised for shifting the game by a day, adding that “it was due to reasons beyond our reach’’. According to the statement, the match will be played at the 60,000-capacity natural grass pitch National Stadium in Dar-es-Salaam. “Kick-off time is 4 p.m. local time, which is 2 p.m. Nigerian time as they are two hours ahead,’’ it said. Nigeria Football Association (NFA) had earlier been kept in the dark about the match details. Tanzania eliminated
Keshi Releases 30Man Provisional List
SUPER EAGLES striker Ike Uche was the biggest casualty on Tuesday as Stephen Keshi, the Super Eagles Head Coach released a 30-man provisional list for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Uche, who plays for for the World Cup would be Spanish club Villarreal, was announced on June 2 as the excluded with Leon Balogun, invited players were Eagles newly-discovered expected to arrive the team’s defender who plies his camp in England on May 25. football trade with German Keshi said this would club, Fortuna Dusseldorf. enable the team to prepare Bright Dike, U.S-based for the international friendly Eagles striker who scored against Scotland. vital goals for the Eagles in The match against the friendly games against Scotland had been scheduled Catalonian and Italy was also for May 28 at the Craven missing in the list. Cottage, England, while the Dike got Nigeria’s game against Greece would equaliser in the 1-1 draw be played at the Philadelphia against Catalonia in an Union Stadium, U.S. on June international friendly and the 3. Eagles first goal in the 2-2 The friendly encounter draw recorded against Italy in against the U.S. would take another friendly encounter. place at the EverBank Field Keshi released the list to Stadium in Jacksonville, newsmen in Abuja after the U.S. on June 7. Nigeria Football Association (NFA) Technical Committee’s meeting. According to Keshi, the delay witnessed in the release of the list was to enable him to carry out full assessment of the players as most European leagues rounded off this month. The “Big Boss’’ as Keshi is popularly called, pointed out that the 30-man squad would prosecute the three international friendly matches with Scotland, Greece and the USA. He said a final 23-man list Stephen Keshi
“The invited players include goalkeepers Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Chigozie Agbim, and Daniel Akpeyi. “In the defence, we have Elderson Echiejile, Juwon Oshaniwa, Efe Ambrose, Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Kenneth Omeruo, Joseph Yobo and Kunle Odunlami. “The midfielders are Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi,
Ramon Azeez, Ejike Uzoenyi, Sunday Mba, Gabriel Rueben, Nosa Igiebor, Joel Obi and Michael Uchebo, “While Ahmed Musa, Shola Ameobi, Victor Moses, Emmanuel Emenike, Victor Nsofor, Osaze Odemwingie , Babatunde Michael, Uche Nwafor and Nnamdi Oduamadi are in the forward line,’’ Keshi said.
Okiro, on Tuesday advised the Super Eagles not to be scared of “big names’’ as they prepare for the 2014 World Cup. Okiro told newsmen in Abuja that the team should go to the 2014 World Cup finals,
which begins in Brazil on June 12, and fight their opponents “with team spirit’’. “It is a known fact that the Super Eagles are going for the World Cup for the fifth time, but nothing changes in the pattern of the World Cup. “It is still 11 players versus 11 players on the field. So, my advice to the Super Eagles as their preparation continues is not to be bothered by the ‘big names’. “They should go out there and fight with team spirit and come back to Nigeria with the trophy. “This is because if other countries have been doing it, we can also do it with the ambition and desire to succeed,’’ he said. Okiro, who is the
neighbours Kenya on penalties to reach the second round, while six-time African champions, Nigeria drew bye into the second round. The return leg of the AYC qualifier will be in Nigeria two weeks later. Meanwhile, Flying Eagles Head Coach, Manu Garba, has said that the national U-20 team was ready to fly the country’s flag high in the qualifier. Audu in the statement in Abuja said that Graba made the promise moments after the team’s training session at the National Stadium, Lagos on Tuesday. The statement quoted the coach as saying that his team was fully ready for their first leg qualifier against Tanzania. “We respect our opponents, but we want to win in Tanzania so that the second leg in Nigeria will be a mere formality. “We have very good information about Tanzania after the NFA sent an official to spy on them last month. “They like to play football and have a good recovery rate, but we will be equal to the task,’’ Garba was quoted as saying. The coach was also quoted as saying that the depth, resilience and character of the team was unrivaled. “We are a Nigerian team and so we have the character to withstand any situation and we will again prove this in Tanzania,’’ he said. The statement also said that all 18 squad players were free of injury in spite of the bruising warm-up match against Benin Republic on Sunday in Cotonou. Nigeria’s U-20 team played two test matches in Morocco in April, which they drew and had also played against local clubs in Abuja ahead of this qualifier.
Former I-G Admonishes Super of the Police FORMER InspectorEagles Chairman Service Commission (PSC), General of Police, Mike
called on Nigerians to support the Super Eagles in their campaign at the mundial in Brazil. “We need to all come out to support the Super Eagles if we want them to succeed in Brazil, because they are going there to represent us. “The team members are Nigerians drawn from different states in the country. So, we must identify with them to give them the sense of belonging while representing us over there,” he said. The Super Eagles have been drawn in the competition’s Group F with Argentina, BosniaHerzegovina and Iran in the first round. The 32-team FIFA World Cup is scheduled to hold in 12 Brazilian cities from June 12 to July 13.
CMYK
All The Black Market Injunctions NORMALLY, we don’t have to justify telling the truth but we do have to justify not telling the truth. The plain truth is that from the beginning, these smart guys -men who at times even attempt to o u t s m a r t themselves — have the same modus operandi. They think they are bold and with their boldness, they can intimidate the rest of society and browbeat all of us into submitting to their whims and caprices. One good attribute of the truth is that it is empirical and verifiable — bend it whichever way you like, it remains constant; and crush it to death, it will await you at the next corner. In ancient times, Atakpalakpa existed in a rural setting. He was a notorious thief whose stock-intrade was around goat thievery. He was a menace to the entire community. On that fateful native Sunday, Eken Market Day, a general meting of the villagers was called to consider what to do with Atakpalakpa. As soon as the villagers converged at the village square, Atakpalakpa came out and warned that nobody should talk about him. Whosoever dared talk after a stern warning from a terror would have done so at his own risk. It was like removing the clothes put in the sun by a witch. That
was the end of the meeting. During the period 1999-2007, Dr. Peter Odili was the Governor of Rivers State. He was a damn good Governor. Seven years after, many Rivers State indigenes, particularly those who worked with him, hold him in high esteem. If you were to go to a street in Port-Harcourt
e x c h a n g e malpractices, money laundering, stealing and abuse of Oath of Office” against Dr. Odili. In the tradition of Atakpalakpa, Odili rushed to the court to stop the security agencies, including the EFCC, from investigating him for corruption and from further probing his administration.
declarative and injunctive reliefs sought by the plaintiff, declaring that the EFCC investigations were invalid, unlawful, unconstitutional, and null and void. The injunction restrained the EFCC and other defendants from publicizing the report of the investigation; and also restrained the EFCC from any further action in relation to the alleged economic and financial crimes committed by Dr. Odili.
March 2008, the Judge held, “The subsisting judgment of March 2007 by this court is binding on all parties. Therefore, there is a perpetual injunction restraining the EFCC from arresting, detaining and arraigning Odili…” A UK-based Nigerian, Osita Mba, has since fired a petition against Justice Buba, to the NJC and Justice Buba has been queried as a result.
Not too surprisingly, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation who also doubles as the Law Officer of the Federation and the guardian of the public interest failed to file any defence to this t h o r o u g h l y outrageous claim. The EFCC filed a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to oust its statutory powers, particularly after its investigation had established prima facie case against Dr. Odili. It was soon to be technicalities-galore, including that the EFCC’s objection was filed out of time. In a ruling delivered on 5
M e a n w h i l e , President Goodluck Jonathan, in his usual magnanimity has given Odili and his likes the opportunity to acquit themselves. Former Governor of Bayelsa State, DSP Alamiesigha, who was convicted by EFCC, has since been granted State
EFCC boss, Lamorde
today to proclaim otherwise, you would probably be lynched. That is how far street loyalty can take anyone. On the debit side, quite early into the Odili administration, tongues wagged that the Governor was stealing the State blind. EFCC was quite vocal on this when in the interim report of its investigation, it a s s e r t e d unequivocally that Governor Odili had diverted over N100 billion of Rivers States fund into his personal accounts. The report contained serious allegations of “fraud, c o n s p i r a c y, conversion of public funds, foreign
On 22 February 2007, the then Rivers State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice filed Suit no. FHC/PHC/CS178/ 2007 — Rivers State Vs the EFCC and 3 others -- challenging the powers of the EFCC to probe the affairs of the State, claiming that the activities of the EFCC were prejudicial to the smooth running of the Rivers State government. The case was given accelerated hearing and was apparently decided ex-parte. Thus, on 23 March 2007, Justice Ibrahim Nyaure Buba, sitting in the Federal High Court, Port-Harcourt, swiftly granted all the
pardon. These men and their likes are the bunch at the ongoing so-called National Conference writing your Constitution. Why wouldn’t they write themselves into the Constitution? If they work hard enough, they may abrogate or substantially weaken the anti-graft agencies and corruption shall be further entrenched. That’s Nigeria, our Nigeria! Section 88 of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999, mandates the National Assembly to look for a rat whenever it smells one. The National Assembly has smelled a big rat – the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has squandered a whopping sum of N10 billion in hiring taxis (air taxis)! Like Peter Odili, she too has approached the courts for immunity from investigation. The penultimate week, they flew a kite: We woke up one morning to find virtually all the media awash with news that the Petroleum Minister had slapped a perpetual injunction on the House of
Representatives, barring them from investigating her. With all the denials and counterdenials, the resort to Atakpalakpa is just a question of time. Who is deceiving whom? Even where the power of investigation is a potent instrument in the hands of the legislature, the body language of our legislators clearly indicates that where the looter is prepared to part with part of his loot, the rest would simply be story-story! Otherwise, even if the Farouk Lawan saga was clearly a case of entrapment, the House of Representatives should, at least, have been seen to met out some semblance of discipline on him. On balance, these black market injunctions are injurious to the health of our democracy. They fuel corruption and destroy the very essence of the doctrine of Separation of Powers.
“On 23 March 2007, Justice Ibrahim Nyaure Buba, sitting in the Federal High Court, Port-Harcourt, swiftly granted all the declarative and injunctive reliefs sought by the plaintiff, declaring that the EFCC investigations were invalid, unlawful, unconstitutional, and null and void. The injunction restrained the EFCC and other defendants from publicizing the report of the investigation; and also restrained the EFCC from any further action in relation to the alleged economic and financial crimes committed by Dr. Odili.”
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