THE NIGERIAN
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The Nigerian
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vol. 38 NO.330 • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013 • N100.00
SCIENCE Page 15
The cosmos is cracked
Cataract, leading cause of blindness - Ophthalmologist World Sight Day: LAGOS The Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, yesterday said cataracts were the leading cause of
blindness in the country. Dr. Modupe Idris, the Chairperson of the Lagos State branch of
the society, said this in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. She spoke against the backdrop of the World
Sight Day, which is commemorated every second Thursday in October. Continues on page 2
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Disaster Management
HEALTH Page 22
Addressing problem of cancer
UN ’ll continue assistance Under Secretary to Nigeria ASABA - Baroness Valerie Amos, the UN UnderSecretary for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief, has assured Nigeria of the organisation’s continued support in the management of flood disaster. Amos, who was for the management of represented by Mr. Ayo flood and other Bamidele, a UN staff in disasters in the country. Nigeria, gave the The under-secretary assurance yesterday in said that the action plan Asaba at the opening of would create a platform the third South-South for government at all Emergency Management levels to relate with Summit and Exhibition. other humanitarian She said the UN would organisations. also support the country She noted that apart in fashioning out a joint from flooding, there development action plan were other challenges
facing the country such as political violence, communal clashes and health problems. She, therefore,
commended the efforts of the National E m e r g e n c y Management Agency (NEMA) in managing the 2012 flood disaster
in the country. “The humanitarian services put in place by NEMA have been very commendable as it is partnering with other
agencies,’’ she added. Also speaking, the Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Sidi, said that the South-South zone was susceptible to various forms of disaster, both natural and humaninduced. Continues on page 2
Medicare: HOS laments
exodus of Nigerians abroad BENIN CITY - The Health Sector needs Workers who are diligent to stem the exodus of Nigerians going abroad for their Health care needs. The Head of Service, Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa Inneh made the assertion when she r e c e i v e d representative of the school of Nursing, lgbinedion University’ Okada who paid her a courtesy call. Princess Ekiuwa lnneh affirmed that if the Health Institutions are working optimally, Nigerians would spend less travelling abroad for medical attention. Responding to the requests of the Students, the Head of Service assured that she will contribute positively in the next National Council on
Establishment if the issue is raised, pointing out that internship will broaden their knowledge. Earlier, the Leader of the student Nurse, lgbinedion University, Okada chapter, Mr. Humphry Emeka Nonso told the Head of Service that Nurses in the University do not participate in clinical practice and internship unlike their counterparts. Mr. Emeka Nonso pleaded with the Head of Service to lend her voice to their plea in the forth coming meeting of
the National Council on Establishment, He regretted that due to the current event, research conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) shows that Nigeria has the highest number of Nurses being exported to Europe.
WORLD SIGHT DAY: People undergoing eye test, during the World Sight Day Celebration in Abuja yesterday.
BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole said his administration would continue to encourage the National Youth
Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the state. Governor Oshiomhole
Oshiomhole assures NYSC of support disclosed this in Benin City yesterday during the passing out ceremony of
Severance Pay For PHCN Workers
Dagogo-Jack explains delay
ABUJA - The Chairman, Presidential Task Force on Power, Chief Reynolds
Dagogo- Jack, on Wednesday attributed the delay in payment of severance benefits to
PHCN workers to due process. Dagogo-Jack stated this in an interview with
newsmen in Abuja. According to him, the 40,000 staff of PHCN will Continues on page 2
the 2012 Batch ‘C’ Corps members posted to the state. To this end, the governor who was represented by the sate Head of Service, Princess Ekiuwa Inneh rewarded four corps members who d i s t i n g u i s h e d
themselves with state Honours Awards. Governor Oshiomhole said he was impressed by the positive impact made on host communities by corps members through community development projects to include Continues on page 2
THE NIGERIAN
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
News
Cataract, leading cause of blindness
Continued from page 1 The theme for 2013 World Sight Day is: “Universal Eye Health”. Idris said that the World Sight Day is aimed at creating awareness on sight-related issues. She said that most causes
of blindness were treatable. “The causes of blindness differ from developing to developed countries, but the first and the most common uniform cause of blindness worldwide are cataracts. “You have higher numbers of people with cataracts now
because most people are getting old, and as a result, you have more cases of cataracts. “The most common cause of cataracts is ageing. Diabetes can also cause cataracts. Trauma to the eye can cause cataracts too.
UN ’ll continue assistance to Nigeria
Continued from page 1
Sidi said that the region had in recent times witnessed disasters such as ocean surge, flooding, oil spillages, communal crisis, pipeline explosion, among others. He added that disaster management in the country was mainly humanitarian in nature, with huge funds annually spent on emergencies, while developmental gains were lost in different incidents. The NEMA boss said the agency had adopted the
“Hyogo” framework to avert future disasters and ensure business and government continuity. The framework, he added, offered the agency the opportunity to formulate policies pertaining to social development, equity, economic growth, environmental quality and sustainable land use. Sidi commended the drive by the South-South states to integrate their response mechanisms, having achieved 66 per cent in the establishment of their own
He said various issues relating to disaster management would be deliberated upon during the three-day summit. He advised participants to contribute and evolve strategies that would enhance performance in disaster management in the country. The theme of the summit is: “National Flood Disaster: An Imperative for Integrated Disaster Risk Management for Sustainable Development in the South-South Zone.”
materials to Health centres at Ughide-Aviele and Ubiaja. According to him, the NYSC scheme has greatly enhanced the unity of the nation, describing it also as a beacon of hope and an indispensable factor in the quest for the nations growth and development.
He urged NYSC members to look inward and tap from the nation’s abundant resources to make meaning in their lives. During the ceremony, 17 Corps members received the state NYSC coordinator’s certificate of commendation for their distinguished service.
State Emergency Management Agencies.
Oshiomhole assures NYSC
Continued from page 1 sponsoring the training of about 26 widows, donation of 17 treated mosquito nets to the General Hospital, Igueben, cultivation of large scale cassava farm in Igueben, establishment of Legal Aid office and donation of drugs and other health care
Dagogo-Jack explains delay
Continued from page 1 be paid their severance benefits as their bio-metric data have been captured to ensure accuracy. He explained that because of the large number of people involved there was a tendency for delay in payment, noting that the government had started paying the benefits. Dagogo-Jack gave the assurance that all the affected workers would be paid their benefits as funds had been made available for the purpose. He also said that President Goodluck Jonathan set up the task force to ensure proper implementation of the reform in the power sector. According to him, the Federal Government is rigorously pursing the reform agenda to make sure infrastructure in the power sector is taken to the next level. Dagogo-Jack said that about 8,000 megawatts of electricity would be generated
before the end of the year for injection into the National Grid. He also said that an environment conducive to training would be created at the National Power Training
Institute of Nigeria. He noted that the government recently gave successful bidders for the PHCN their certificates to ensure improvement in the power sector.
“Use of drugs for a long time can also cause it, especially enhancement drugs like steroids,’’ she said. Idris said that some people could also be born with cataracts. “Then, the child can be born with cataracts,” she said. Idris said that other causes of blindness were glaucoma, diabetes mellitus and cornea whiteness. “The unfortunate thing about glaucoma is that it causes permanent damage, and irrespective of your sickness, the damage caused already cannot be reversed. “Then, other causes are cornea whiteness, refractive error and diabetes mellitus. “The normal cornea is supposed to be clear and transparent, but by the time it gets white, then, the person will not be able to see. “Refractive errors, such as short sightedness and long sightedness, which are not corrected, can also cause visual impairment,” she said. Also, Dr. Ademola Popoola, a Consultant Ophthalmologist at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Ilorin, advised people to always check their sight, adding that age reduced vision. Popoola said at the age of 40 years, complications may set in as regards eye sight. She said that the most common forms of eye disease was glaucoma, which causes blindness gradually. Popoola identified other eye diseases to include: trachoma, measles, rubella and diabetes.
IDSL promises support for Edo Oil, in Edo state. Gas summit communities By THOMPSON Responding, the Managing ERHOMONSELE
BENIN CITY - Integrated Data Services Limited (IDSL), a subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has promised its support for the Edo State Oil and Gas 2013 summit to be organized by Edo State Ministry of Special Duties, Oil and Gas. The seismic operations giant also assured of its support to the publication of the ministry on the activities of all stakeholders in the oil and gas industry in Edo state. This came to the fore when Edo State Commissioner for Special Duties, Oil and Gas, Ambassador Orobosa OmoOjo (JP) led top officials of the ministry and the consultant on a courtesy visit to the Managing
Director of IDSL, Dr Joseph T. Dawha in Benin City yesterday. Ambassador Omo-Ojo disclosed that the purpose of his visit was to acquit the company’s management with the 2013 Edo Oil and Gas summit and publication on the activities of all stakeholders in the sector as well as solicit its participation and sponsorship of both ventures scheduled for the near future in Benin city. While extending greetings of Edo State Governor to IDSL for its contribution to the economic fortunes of the state, the commissioner also gave a synopsis of effort the ministry had made to ensure peace prevails for operators to carry out their operations unhindered in their various host
Director of IDSL, Dr Joseph T. Dawha, who was accompanied by the Executive Director, Operations, Dafe S. Sejebor and the Head, Public Affairs Department, Samson Makoji, to receive the Commissioner and his entourage, lauded the development effort of the state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole in the state even as he also commended Ambassador Omo-Ojo on his proposals which he observed were very important in the state pointing out that he had not seen anything of such for the past eight years that he has been in Edo state and promised to support the planned oil and gas summit and publication, describing the pattern as systematic.
St Maria Gorretti Girls told to be exemplary
BENIN CITY- Students of St Maria Gorretti Girls Grammar School have been told to display exemplary character that will mark them out in the society as worthy ambassadors of the school. The Head of Service, Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa lnneh gave this admonition at the 2013 scholarship award to students of her alma mater, Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa Inneh challenged the students to take their studies seriously, saying that education is the key to success in life. She pointed out that the old Girls of the
school are able to embark on the gesture, because according to her in their time in the school, they worked hard to be where they are now. She encouraged the recipients of the scholarship award to spend the money judiciously, by investing on books and other study materials that will enhance their academics. Being an old Girl of St Maria Gorrette, the Head of Service ascribed her
success to the foundation from the school and urged the students to emulate their predecessors. Princess lnneh thanked the old Girls of the school for the scholarship award, which she said will instill academic consciousness in the students and engender academic competition as well. On his part, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Barr. Washington Osifo while thanking the old Girls for supporting
educational development in the state said the Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole believes in human development hence teachers are motivated to enable them give their best. The Education Commissioner added that the future of the Children was very bright and advised them to pay attention to their studies. The representative of the President of Gorrette old Girls International appealed to the State Government to consider their earlier appeal for the return of the school to Catholic Mission.
Two-storey building saved from fire By INNOCENT OMOAKA / tragedy SUCCESS OSAYI BENIN CITY- Tragedy was yesterday averted as a fire inferno engulfed a two-storey building, at No 61 Adesuwa Grammar School Road, GRA, Benin City. An eye witness, said the fire incident which began at about 10 am was due to spark in the electric wire connecting the building to the electric pole. The inferno started at a boutique, one of the affected stores and later spread to the next pharmacy store which was reduced to rubbles. A witness who do not want
his name in print said the state fire service men who came to put out the fire left few minutes after they arrived the scene due to technical fault with the fire service engine pump. He also told The NIGERIAN OBSERVER that it took the combined efforts of occupants of the building with few other persons to put out the fire. At the time The NIGERIAN OBSERVER arrived the scene of the incident items in the two stores were completely burnt.
Delta bye-election
Let People’s votes count - UPU By BETTY IDIALU
WARRI - The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) has appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to play a transparent role by allowing the votes of the Urhobos count in Saturday’s Delta Central Senatorial district byelection. The union also debunked rumour in some quarters that certain candidate had been anointed by the union, saying all the candidates deserve and are qualified to represent the Urhobo nation in Abuja. The UPU which admonished all Urhobos to shine their eyes and make the right choice, made these known at a press conference at Adagrassa, near Warri, Delta State. President-General of the union, General Patrick Newton Aziza (rtd), who addressed the press, appealed to INEC officials to adhere strictly to the rule of “one man, one vote,” adding that the people’s vote should be allowed to prevail during the election. “I wish to appeal to INEC officials that they should strive and do everything possible to promote peaceful elections by adhering strictly to one man one vote, and by allowing
people’s votes to count in order to ensure a peaceful, free and credible election in Urhobo land,” he said. He commended the candidates for their maturity and peaceful conduct during their campaigns, while appealing to all the political parties concerned to ensure fair play during the election, “particularly when the contestants are all Urhobos.” Aziza admonished the candidates to restrain their supporters from electoral malpractices, saying, “we must not do anything that is capable of breaking the peace or causing rancour and acrimony amongst our people because Urhobo cannot afford to lose sight of the bigger picture for 2015.” The umbrella body of all Urhobos worldwide enjoined all eligible and registered voters residing in Delta Central Senatorial District to turn out enmass, vote for candidate of their choice and wait for their votes to be counted, noting that the choice made at the voting, “would affect the progress of the entire Urhobo people and generations to come. It would be recalled that the senatorial seat was vacant following the demise of late Senator Pius Ewherido, on June 30, 2013.
‘50% of women population not engaged in nat’l devt’
ABUJA- The Chairperson for Women in Technology in Nigeria, Mrs. Martha Aladi, has said that 50 per cent of women in the country are not skillfully engaged to contribute to national development. Aladi stated this in Abuja at the ongoing 53rd Council Meeting and 11th Annual Conference of the C o m m o n w e a l t h Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Organisation (CTO), with the theme: “Innovation through Broadband’’. She said that a large percentage of Nigerian women were not contributing to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) because of lack of skills or financial empowerment. “I will say 50 per cent of our human capital
compromises women that are not socio-economically engaged and this has a huge impact on our country’s GDP and national development. “It is important that we have the enabling polices, right motivation and adequate sanitisation for women to be able to use broadband more effectively so that they can contribute their own quota to national development,’’ Aladi said. She said that when women are empowered they support the man and the family, therefore, women empowerment was of critical importance to the economic development of the country. According to her, Internet connection through broadband has a lot to offer as “these women can be positively engaged online instead of wasting time doing nothing”.
THE NIGERIAN
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Inside Edo Man, 57, Convicted For Perjury
Wife of Edo State Deputy Governor, Deaconess Endurance Odubu delivering an address during the Scientific and Delegates Conference of the Forum for Local Government Nurses and Midwives (FOLGONM), held in Benin City. With her is the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Aihanuwa Eregie and the Chairman of FOLGONM, Evangelist Peter Akin.
BENIN CITY- A chief magistrate court sitting in the Oredo Magisterial District, Benin City, Edo State has convicted a 57 year old man, Mr. Joseph Adesotu for perjury. Delivering his Judgment, Chief Magistrate F.O Idiake Esq said he believed the prosecution witness, Mr. Sunday Adesotu, elder brother to the convict who testified on behalf of the prosecution that an affidavit sworn to in 1994 by the convict and tendered by the convict in
an earlier civil proceeding in an Oredo Area Customary Court sitting in Benin City was false. The prosecution witness told the court that the convict in the said affidavit on of April 4, 1994 falsely deposed on oath that he inherited a property known as No.1 5A Osaretin Street, Benin City from his late father, Richard Adesotu whereas as at 1994, their late father who died in 1999 was still alive. To buttress this fact, the prosecution, through the
gave insight into the composition of the projects. President of the NGO, Rev’d (Mrs.) Josephine Kpere Daibo said the projects were informed by the need to complement the
developmental strides of the state government. Calling on other NGOs to emulate the organization, she disclosed that it has so far executed many projects in different parts of the country.
Women Affairs Commissioner Commissions Projects
BENIN CITY – Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Blessing Maigida has commissioned some projects executed at the Ugbekun Remand Home, Benin City by the Rural Health for Improved Living a Non Governmental Organization (NGO). The projects include, reactivated two water boreholes, fixing of mosquito nets in the windows both male and female dormitory and the replacement of eight electricity poles. Performing the commissioning ceremony, the commissioner appreciated the NGO’s kind gesture which she said
complements the state government agenda to positively impact on the lives of the citizens. While urging other NGO’s in the state to emulate the gesture of Rural Health Initiative for Improved Living in giving meaning to the lives of other members of the staff and inmates of
Crime: Expert Cautions Against Establishment Of Volunteer Force By INNOCENT OMOAKA
BENIN CITY – A security expert, Mr. Ben Okegie has called for caution on the proposal of
Group Commiserates With EIRS Over Demise Of Perm Sec By VICTOR OMOALU
BENIN CITY – The Network Advocacy for Persons With Visible Disabilities (NAPVID) has commiserated with the Executive Chairman, members and staff of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service over the death of the late Permanent/Board’s Secretary of the agency, Elder Sunday Nosakhare Okundia. President of the body, Barr Melody Omosah who expressed the commiseration on behalf of his members during a courtesy call on the Executive Chairman, Chief Oseni Elamah, described late Okundia’s death as shocking and regrettable, especially at a time his services as a seasoned
the Remand Home to make judicious use of the facilities. Conducting the commissioner round the project, the warden of the Home, Mr. Victor Lawani
said witness tendered the death certificate of their late father wherein it was confirmed that Late Richard Adesotu died in 1999. The Chief Magistrate in his judgment found that the convict knew that the information deposed to in the affidavit was false. According to the magistrate, the evidence of the prosecution is very credible and cogent. That being the case, the magistrate held that the prosecution proved the guilt of the accused beyond every reasonable doubt and accordingly found him guilty as charged. However, the learned magistrate pardoned the accused on the passionate plea of the defence counsel who represented him during the trial.
administrator/tax reform tactician was needed by the state government. “This is indeed a trying moment for your agency, but I urge you to take solace in that the shrewdness, dutifulness and courage exhibited by Elder Okundia would remain indelible in the annals of Edo State”, stated Barr Omosah. While praying for the enternal repose of late Okundia’s soul, Barr Omosah, prayed God to grant the state government the agency and the family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss. Responding Sir Elamah thanked the body for the visit, saying that God has used the late Okundia to achieve overwhelming positive results by the agency.
the Chairman of Police Service Commission, Mr. Mike Okiro for the establishment of a youth volunteer force to help combat the high incidence of crime in the country. The expert gave the indication during a radio current affairs programme monitored in Benin City. Mr. Okegie said that, the proposal for the Youth Volunteer Force to combat the high rate of crime in Nigeria would endanger lives of the youths who are suppose to be in schools. He said, “the sophistication of crimes, such as terrorism requires training and re-training of security operatives than engaging the youth in such a dangerous venture.” Mr. Okegie also called for support for the decentralization of the police also propsed by Mr. Okiro. He however said that, state policing in Nigeria is not viable due to the tense political atmosphere in the country.
Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Blessing Maigida (middle), cutting the tape to officially commission a forget at the Ugbekun Remand Home in Benin City. With her are Rev’d Mrs. Josephine Kpere Daibo, President, Rural Health Initiative for Improved Living (left); Mr. Victor Lawani, Warden of the Remand Home (right).
Development: Community
Leader Commends Oshiomhole UTESE – The Edo State Government has been commended for landmark development so far recorded under the leadership of Governor Adams Oshiomhole. Speaking with newsmen during this year’s annual New Yam festival at Utese in Ovia North East Local Government Area, the Odionwere of Aghalokpe, Pa. Ebose who spoke through the Youth Chairman, Comrade Kelly Ebose stated that the astonished socio-economic development recorded in the
last six years of the administration of an indication that there are credible leaders with the vision to change and impart positively on the lives of people in the state. Ebose noted that, “the situation in Edo State is an indication that the state has credible leaders who have the potentials and ability to develop the stated.” He however, appealed to the state government and Ovia North East Chairman to address some social – economic problems which had been some of the
challenges faed by people of Akhalokpe in Utese. According to him, “some of the challenges include, rehabilitation of schools provision of boreholes, constant electricity power supply which had hitherto eluded Idahosa the community in the last couple of years.” He noted that electricity supply from Okada town normally stop at Iguomon the town before Aghalokpe and all efforts by the Royal Highness, Idahosa Agidigbi to talk to those concern has not yield desired result.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Inside Edo Association Makes Case For Teaching Of Indigenous Language By ADAMS OYIBOKE
BENIN CITY – Uneme National Development Association (UNDA) has advocated the teaching and learning of indigenous Language in the Primary and Secondary School level in Nigeria. President of UNDA Sir, Bayo Alabi gave the hint while speaking with newsmen on the level of preparedness by the Association for the N100, million Education Fund slated for weekend in Benin City. Sir, Alabi said the fund is to be used to assist brilliant and indigent students of Uneme to study from primary school to University level. According to him, the fund is an attempt to fulfill one of the association’s coordinal objectives of promoting social, economic and educational development of Uneme Land. He advocated the need to for government at all levels to encourage the teaching and
learning of indigenous language in schools in order to promote easy understanding of the various subjects in schools. According to him “the nonteaching and learing of indigenous language by colonial masters in our schools is the greatest de-service to the nation’s educational system.” He said that unless indigenous languages are included in the school’s curriculum, cultural values might go into extinction. The UNDA is a socioeconomic and cultural group aimed at developing all spheres of human endeavour in Uneme Land.
President Goodluck Jonathan undergoing a regular medical checkup during the launch of awareness campaign for regular medical check-up in Abuja on Wednesday.
30,000 Edo Youths Benefit From NDE By RICHARD EWEKA BENIN CITY – Over 30,000 youths have benefited from the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) programme in Edo State.
State Co-ordination of NDE, Mrs. Ayo Edegbai disclosed this in Benin City during an orientation ceremony for newly recruited trainees for the National Open Apprenticeship (NOAS) programme of the
directorate. Mrs. Edegbai said the NDE is the flagship in the fight against unemployment in Nigeria. According to her, the directorate has continued to be committed to the issue of
Vice President Namadi Sambo undergoing a regular medical checkup during the launch of awareness campaign for regular medical check-up in Abuja on Wednesday.
unemployment, especially of youths in the realization that the youths are the future of the nation. “NDE intervenes directly through employment counseling service; skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development training; provision of transient jobs and enterprise creation for trained beneficiaries. “I urge you to make the best use of this opportunity and transform yourselves for the better” she said. Mr. Offia Obinna who represented the Director Vocational Skills Development congratulated the trainees and urged them to utilize the opportunity provided by NDE to improved their lives for the better. She told the participant that the skills they will acquire is the ability or experience needed to satisfy the needs of others and that the skills must be marketable. “Everyone needs skills in the modern world we live in, be you graduates, under-graduates, the unemployed and everybody in
-Coordinator
the society. “NDE centers across the state have good equipments and the manpower to deliver the necessary skills to contribute their own quota to the development of the society and nation at large” she noted. Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Edo State, Hon. Ijogbe Solomon frowned at the lack of reorientation by youths, putting the blame at the door step of those incharge. He said that what we need as youth is re-orientation to be able to discharge our responsibility to develop the “nation” noting that what NDE gives to people is what will be useful in life till one dies.” Your certificate is for the main time, you either be caught up by age or retirement year, but your skill, you will use for life till you die. “Skill acquisition is the key for success, as you acquire this skills, the country will be better for it” he said.
LG To Build Model Health OGIRIGA (ETSAKO Centre EAST) – The Etsako East
LG Boss Inspects Skills Acquisition Centre
OKPELLA – Chairman, Etsako East Local Government Council, Hon. Abdulmalik Suleiman Afegbua has inspected the Skills Acquisition Centre in Okpella. The Chairman said that the centre which was constructed by Hon. Stanley Okpo Odidi led administration has not been put to use, saying it was part
of his electoral promises to open it for use. He stated that youth empowerment is critical to the development of any society stressing that the need for him to renovate and provide equipments for Skill Acquisition Centre in the Local Government Area becomes imperative. The council boss, who said that he has been
informed of the huge numbers of applicants for apprenticeship at the centre, maintained that the project is targeted towards the reduction of crimes and other social vices. Coordinator of the centre, Mr. Sule Sanni who spoke to newsmen said that inspite of initial challenges in the installation of computers, the centre has started providing
quality training in the field of computer literacy, tailoring, hair dressing and barbing, carpentry, laundry, and dry cleaning services. He however, maintained that the huge number of applicants cannot be accommodated, stressing that the centre now runs morning and afternoon sessions.
Local Government is to establish another Model Health Centre in Okugbe Community. Chairman of the Local Government Council, (Hon) Malik Suleiman Afegbua disclosed this during his inspection visit to the ongoing construction work at the Ogiri go Model Health Centre. The council chairman who was represented by the supervisory councellor for Health, Hon. Barbabas Oshiobor said the move is an expression of his administration’s commitment to bringing health care services to the grassroot. The supervisor for Health who also hails from Ogiriga Community, said that Hon. Afegbua is simply fulfilling his electoral promises to the people who would continue to appreciate the quality
performance of the council boss. Deacon Matthew Iregiegbe, who spoke on behalf of the community in local dialect maintained that it has never been so well with Ogiriga. Expressing thanks to the council Chairman he said that the entire community would continue to support the administration. The council boss who expressed satisfaction with the level of work done at the Ogiriga Model Health Centre disclosed that the project engineer has assured him of its completion in few weeks time. Disclosing that equipment and other facilities for the centre have been procured, he also noted that they are state of the art equipment that would benefit nearby communities.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
News Pilgrims To Fly From Akanu Ibiam International Airport ENUGU- Following the commencement of international flights from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, the 2013 Christian pilgrims from Enugu State will be transported from the airport, an official has said. The Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, the Chairman of the Enugu State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, announced the plan in Enugu during Tuesday’s sensitisation and enlightenment meeting with
the potential pilgrims. He said the pilgrimage to Israel and Rome would commence in November. Chukwuma explained that the commencement of international flights from the airport would reduce the cost of travelling and stress for the pilgrims. The chairman said the theme of the 2013 pilgrimage was ‘Spiritual Transformation and NationBuilding.’ He urged the pilgrims to avoid acts capable of denting
the image of the state and country in the Holy Land. He warned them not to engage in any form of trade during the pilgrimage, adding that the board would arrest any pilgrim found wanting. ‘We are going to search your luggage; anybody involved in buying and selling will not get away with it. “We will arrest you and make sure you suffer for your offence. “This years’ pilgrimage
Wrong Termination Of Appointment: ABUJA- The National Industrial Court has resumed hearing in a suit filed by 90 officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) against the corps for wrongful termination of their employment. The claimants, led by Mr Entonou Oyigocho, joined the Commandant-General of NSCDC, the minister and the Ministry of Interior, as third and fourth defendants in the suit. They are praying the court to declare that the withdrawal of their uniforms and appointment letters by the defendants was null and void and of no effect. The claimants are also seeking for an order directing the defendants to recall them and to release the original copies of their employment letters to them. They are also seeking for an order of the court directing the defendants to immediately pay them all the arrears of their salaries from July 2008 till date. It will be recalled that when the matter came up for hearing in July, the claimants told the court that the defendants had not dismissed them. Oyigocho, under crossexamination, told the court that the second defendant (DG) ordered the withdrawal of their uniforms and appointment letters
in July 2008. He told the court that the defendants stopped the payment of their salaries since then, but said that their pension contribution was still running. Oyigocho also said that they were still officers of the defendants because their pension accounts were being credited every month. The claimants’ counsel, Mr Ajugu Ataguba, informed the court that the claimants’ witness was ready to give evidence. Ataguba also informed the court that neither the defendants nor their counsel were in court, and urged the court to adjourn the matter in the interest of
N/Delta:
will be significant because pilgrims will be transported from Enugu. “Obedience and discipline should be our watchword in this year’s pilgrimage,’’ he said. Chukwuma commended President Goodluck
Jonathan, the Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, and South-East governors for making the dream of an international airport in Enugu a reality. One of the potential pilgrims, Mr James Ugwu, thanked the state government for sponsoring
90 Officers Sue NSCDC
justice. The president of the court, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, granted the request and adjourned the case to Oct. 28 for further hearing.
L-R: Head of Service, Alhaji Goni Aji; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim; Vice-President Namadi Sambo and President Goodluck Jonathan, at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja on Wednesday.
Community Decries Activities Of
EVBOWE (EDO) - The Odionwere and elders of Evbowe community in Oredo local government area have warned members of the public on the consequences of transacting land business in the
Land Speculators
community with Mr. Peter Omorodion and Wellington Osemwengie, both of whom had since been removed from office as community chairman
and youth chairman respectively. The Evbowe community in a statement signed by the Odionwere, Pa.
Navy Vows To Flush Out Criminals
WARRI (DELTA)-The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, Rear Adm. Sidi-Ali Usman, has said that the command had declared war on criminals in the Niger Delta region. Usman, who addressed newsmen in Warri, said the command was liaison with communities in the area to effectively stamp out militancy in the region. “The communities are
some of the pilgrims, saying the trip would empower him spiritually. Another potential pilgrim, Mrs Ngozi Otahumelu, appealed to wealthy individuals to sponsor more people to travel for pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
cooperating because they know the aim is also beneficial to them,’’ he said. Usman said the command had achieved remarkable success in the war against criminals in the Niger Delta since his assumption of office as the flag officer commanding. He said the command would sustain the tempo by maintaining the status quo. “I intend to sustain the
present feat of success by maintaining the strategy which I put in place on resumption of command. “The strategy is yielding good result; I will keep it within myself, because if I decide to make it a public consumption, there is tendency that the aim will be defeated. “We will continue to sustain it to achieve greater height.’’ Usman, who also inspected some Naval facilities in Warri, expressed joy with the conditions of
the amenities. The flag officer commanding said the aim of the inspection was to identify some of the facilities that needed attention in order to meet the command’s optimum level of performance. Some of the facilities inspected by the commandant included the Nigeria Naval Ship, Obula, Nigerian Naval Ship, Zaria, Naval Flying Unit, Fleet Support Group and the Nigerian Navy Hospital, among other facilities.
Solomon Ugiagbe, said the warning became imperative because of the indiscriminate sales of land in the community without recourse to the approval of the Odionwere and elders. He advised those who had acquired plots of land in Evbowe community of recent, to seek clarification from the Odionwere and elders, adding that the community reserves the right to confiscate any land illegally acquired or possibly pull down any structure erected on such plots of land acquired without the Odionwere’s approval. The statement further alerted the public that the portion of land on the boundary between Evbowe and Ulemon community has been a matter of litigation which is still pending at the High Court, warning that anyone who buys a piece of land in that area either from Evbowe or Ulemon community, does so at his or her own risk.
Govt Warns NSCDC, clear all court cases against Others tanker drivers in the state,”
Harassement Of Tanker Drivers:
Child Protection Network (CPN), Gombe State Chapter, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s (UNICEF) and Gombe State Ministry of Women Affairs hold rally to create awareness on increasing rape cases in Gombe recently.
UYO - The Akwa Ibom Government has cautioned the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies over the harassment of tanker drivers in the state. The Special Adviser to Gov. Godswill Akpabio on Labour and Productivity, Mr Godwin Udom, gave the warning in Uyo after a meeting with officials of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union and other stakeholders. The meeting was part of efforts, aimed at resolving the one-week old strike by tanker drivers in Akwa Ibom. Akwa Ibom residents experienced petroleum products
scarcity, following the strike over alleged harassment of drivers by the NSCDC and other security operatives. “As part of the agreement reached in our meeting, the State Government has directed the release of two tanker drivers arrested by men of the NSCDC with immediate effect. “They have also been directed to stop further incessant harassment of the drivers. “The PTD-NUPENG will work with the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to
Udom said. The governor’s aide said that a committee, comprising representatives of security agencies and the State Government would be set up to iron out areas of conflict between security operatives and tanker drivers. He expressed displeasure over the untold hardships experienced by people of the state over the week-long fuel scarcity. Udom assured that the State Government would do everything possible to prevent a re-occurrence in future.
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South-West NSCDC Reaffirms Commitment IBADAN - The Nigeria To Stop Vandalism
Security and Civil Defence Corps(NSCDC) is winning the war against vandals, Mr. Shem Obafaiye, the Oyo State Commander of the corps, has said Report says that though fighting vandals was challenging, the NSCDC was making steady progress. “Stopping oil pipeline vandalism may not be achieved in a day because this menace did not start today. However, we are making a gradual impact in checking the vandals. “To be honest with you, Nigeria has not made a mistake in putting the NSCDC in charge of this anti-vandalism crusade because we are doing our best. “With the assistance of the government, I believe we would decisively tackle this criminal activity by God’s grace,” he said. He, however, urged the public not to see the fight against vandalism as that of the NSCDC alone. “Everybody in the country is a stakeholder in eradicating oil pipeline vandalism. It behoves on every individual to think of how he can make positive contribution to stop it,” he said. Obafaiye acknowledged that while the NSCDC may have its challenges in prosecuting its mandate, it was coping adequately well.
“Every thing in life has a challenge and the NSCDC cannot be an exemption, but all the same, we are making good
use of our resources to achieve maximum results,” he said. Obafaiye described the relationship between the
Suspected Car Snatchers Remanded In Prison ABEOKUTA - For allegedly robbing a woman of her car and other items valued
Representative of Post Master General of the Federation, Mr Yashim Bitiyong (left), with Deputy Post Master General, Malam Umar Shehu, addressing a news conference to mark 2013 world post day celebration in Abuja on Wednesday.
Aregbesola Showers Encomium On Army
OSOGBO - Governor. Rauf Aregbesola of Osun has described the Nigerian Army as one of the few institutions in the country that had maintained true national essence. Aregbesola said this at the inauguration of the newly elected members of the state executive of the Nigerian Legion in Osogbo. He said the discipline, dedication and sacrificial
services of Nigerian soldiers within and outside the shores of the country were worthy of emulation. The governor spoke through Mr Moshood Adeoti, the Secretary to the Osun State Government. “ Nigerian soldiers have demonstrated beyond doubts their patriotism in peace
Nipost Receives 362,593 Letters, ABEOKUTA - The through us and also reports of Parcels Nigeria Postal Service annual general meetings. (NIPOST), Ogun territory, said it had received 362,593 letters and parcels within eight months. The Area Postal Manager, Mr Afolabi Mathias, told newsmen in Abeokuta that emphasis was shifted from individual mailers to bulk mailers between January and August. “Individual mailers do not use the post as they used to do because of so many means of communication that we now have. “Bulk mailers like corporate bodies, banks send their statements of account
NSCDC and other security agencies as cordial, saying: “We work together as a team and we have been able to resolve many issues as a result of sharing intelligence. The synergy is very strong,” he said.
“The capital market can not function very well without the services coming from NIPOST; most of the shareholders get their dividend warrants, bonuses through NIPOST,” he said. The manager said that the use of ICT had enhanced the services of NIPOST, adding that the Internet was, however, limited in the number of facilities provided. According to him, the baggage on ground can be sent by Internet. Mathias maintained that the post would continue to be relevant because people
would continue to receive and send messages, especially hard copies. He advised students to embrace the habit of writing letters to improve their writing skills, saying that the use of postal service would boost their writing skills. He urged parents to encourage their children in schools to write letters and essays, and send to them through the postal service. NAN reports that October. 9 of every year is set aside by the Universal Postal Union to celebrate the beginning of postal service worldwide.
keeping roles within the country and even beyond with many of them laying their lives.’’ Aregbesola said it was unfortunate that many soldiers were living in poverty after serving the country and advocated a fool proof system that will ensure that they get their entitlements in good time. Retired Col. Alimi Samotu, the newly elected Chairman of the state council of the
Nigerian Legion, appealed to the Federal Government to expedite action on the payment of their 53 percent pension arrears. He said this would “give living but disabled legion a life line.” Samotu said that even after service, “the average soldier is totally committed to the Nigerian project.’’ He promised to lead the legion in Osun loyally with a view to continuing service to the nation even out of service.
at N2 million at gunpoint, three men were remanded in prison custody in Abeokuta, Ogun capital. An Abeokuta Chief Magistrates’ Court which gave the order, however, did not take the pleas of the accused. The Chief Magistrate, Mr Anthony Araba, said the trio should remain behind bars until Dec. 13. The accused — Tosin Bello, 45; Kabiru Balogun, 36; and Olaogun Dayo, 20 – are being tried for armed robbery and conspiracy. Earlier, the prosecutor, ASP Paul Etusi, had told the court that the accused, whose addresses were unknown, committed the offences on Aug. 10 at Alamala Roundabout on AbeokutaAyetoro road. He alleged that the accused robbed one Mrs Olayinka Dosumu of her Volkswagen Golf car, her wedding ring, one laptop, two Samsung tablet phones and four other brands of mobile phones, all valued at N2 million. Etusi said the accused, who were armed with a pump action gun and a locallymade pistol, had been terrorising and robbing innocent road users in the area. “The three men were caught by the Special AntiRobbery Squad (SARS) following a tip-off.’’ He said the offences contravened Sections 1(2), (a) and 5 (r) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation, 1999. Reports that the accused, if convicted, may be given imprisonment not less than 21 years. Further hearing has been adjourned to December. 13.
L-R: Area Commander, Metro, DC Charles Ezeala; Assistant Commissioner of Police, DID, Mr Haruna Garba and Commissioner of Police, Plateau, Mr Chris Olakpe, during the news conference on the force activities in Jos Wednesday.
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Lagos Fix Prices For Commodities, Expert Urges FG
L-R: Director, Political Affairs, ECOWAS, Dr. Abdel Musah; INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, ECOWAS Assistant Unit, Mr. Francis Oke and Deputy Director, Cleen Foundation, Mr. Chinedu Nwagu at Abuja Debate recently.
LAGOS - Dr Kolawole Adebayo, a lecturer at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, has advised the Federal Government to fix guaranteed prices for agricultural commodities. Adebayo, of the Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development of the institution, told newsmen in Lagos that price regulation on agricultural commodities would ensure food security in the country. “As a nation, we need to have a system of guaranteed price for our farmers; this will strengthen the agricultural system. “ Each year, the Ministry of Agriculture should stipulate what the minimum price on agricultural commodities will
Fraud: Ex-Fin Bank Boss Has Case To Answer - Court IKEJA - An Ikeja High Court has dismissed the no-case submissions filed by a former Managing Director of Finbank Plc, Okey Nwosu, and three others. Nwosu and the three former directors — Dayo Famoroti, Danjuma Ocholi and Agnes Ebubedike — are being prosecuted over alleged theft of N10.9 billion belonging to Finbank (now FCMB). Reports say that the former bank chiefs are facing a 26count amended charge of stealing. The defendants had on Sept.16 filed their no-case submissions, asking the court to discharge and acquit them of the charge. Defence Counsel — Chief
Anthony Idigbe (SAN), Mr. Seyi Sowemimo (SAN) and James Ocholi (SAN) — had argued that the prosecution had not established a prima-facie case against the defendants. But the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), had urged the court to dismiss the applications. Jacobs argued that sufficient evidence was before the court which needed answers from the defendants. In her ruling, Justice Lateefat Okunnu, said there was a nexus between the defendants and the theft charge. She said the prosecution had alleged that the four defendants granted loans worth N20 billion
without the approval or knowledge of Finbank’s board of directors. Okunnu also noted that the prosecution had alleged that the loans were disbursed to seven companies through a subsidiary of the bank — Springboard Investment Ltd — to purchase the bank’s shares. According to her, the prosecution claimed that the said shares were later crossed and transferred to the defendants without due process. Okunnu ruled:“I am of the objective view that all these evidence ‘suggest’ a link of all the defendants to the charge of
Incorporate Physically Challenged In Policy Making, Govt Urges Corp Organisations LAGOS - Dr Enitan Badru, the Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State on Youths and Social Development, has urged corporate organisations to incorporate people with disabilities in policy making. Badru, represented by Mr. Lanre Rufai, the Director of Finance and Administration in
the office, made the plea at the 2013 Corporate Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum in Lagos. It was organised by the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) with the theme: “Lagos State Special People’s Law: the Role of Corporate Organisations’’. Rufai said that their
LAGOS - The women wing of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) have called on the country’s leadership to rise up to its responsibility to deliver good governance. The women made the call at a prayer session to mark the 53rd anniversary of the country’s independence. The Chairperson of the Lagos State Wing of the congress, Princess Olubunmi Abikoye, charged the leaders to be accountable to the people.
“We need to thank God that we are alive and do things that will change the negative image people have of Nigeria. “The government of the day needs to do more because people are suffering. “Our leaders need to be accountable. A lot of Nigerians are discouraged and losing hope in the leadership. Leaders should do more through good leadership, transparency and accountability to restore the hope of Nigerians.
Women Task Leaders On Good Goverbance
inclusion in organisations’ policies was in line with the international practices and would enable them to realise their full potential. “All over the world, governments and organisations have realised that it is important to include people with disabilities in their plans. “From work place, work environment, policies and processes to transport system, healthcare, education and social welfare, provisions have been made for people with disabilities. “People with disabilities have proved that they are competent, only if they are given the chance,” he said. Rufai said that people should come to terms with the fact that incidences of disabilities could only be reduced, but not totally wiped out.
stealing. “There is enough evidence to make it expedient for them to give answers and explanations regarding their conducts, vis-a-
vis the said transactions.’’ The judge said it was necessary for them to open their defence in the overriding interest of justice. “It is my finding that the respective no-case submissions cannot be upheld.
LASWA To Connect Markets To Waterways LAGOS - The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) said that it would connect more markets along the coast for easy movement of goods and services. Mr. Olayinka Marinho, the LASWA Managing Director, told newsmen in Lagos that the measure would help to boost water transportation in the state. “We are committed to exploring the waterways for the comfort of our people. “We are not thinking only of passengers’ movement, there is going to be provision for cargo
movement. “We are hoping to connect Alaba Market, Iddo Market, Isale Eko Markets and Epe Market together.” The director said that the project would not only ease the plight of traders carrying goods but it would also make roads durable. “We will eventually reduce the maintenance of roads with this project as goods and heavy materials that reduce the life span of roads will be moved onto the waterways,” he said.
be. “ If we have a drop in any particular year, the prices will not fall beyond the regulated price.” Adebayo said that if there was a guaranteed price, farmers would be assured of selling it at a particular profitable price. He urged the federal Government to assist farmers with credit facilities to enable them to grow crops. The agricultural expert also identified multiple taxation as another major challenge facing the agriculture sector. “Multiple-taxation is a big problem in agriculture, which is the main reason why food tuffs are expensive, “Government should put out a regulation that will protect vehicles conveying agricultural commodities from being taxed.” Adebayo urged the Federal Government to pay attention to the needs of farmers as they were strategic stakeholders in the Nigeria project.
19 Ship Bearth At Lagos Ports
LAGOS - Nineteen ship laden with different petroleum products have arrived at the ports in Lagos, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). NPA, in its daily publication, “Shipping Position’’ obtained by the newsmen said that the petroleum products included fuel, diesel, kerosene and base oil. It said another ship carrying containers is also waiting to berth at the APM Terminal, Apapa. The publication disclosed that 93 vessels were expected to arrive at Lagos ports from October. 8 to October. 29. Giving a breakdown, the NPA said of the 93 vessels, 41 would sail in with containers, while 16 of them would bring in vehicles both new and second-hand.
L-R: Defence Adviser to Nigerian Permanent Secretary to the UN, Brig.-Gen. Lincoln Ogunewe; Deputy Permanent Representative, Amb. Usman Sarri and Nigerian Permanent Representative to the UN, Prof. Joy Ogwu, welcoming the Syrian Ambassador to the UN, Bashar Ja’Afari to the commemoration of Nigeria’s Independence anniversary and campaign for non-Permanent seat on the UN Security Council at the UN Headquarters in New York recently.
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North
Man, 45, Arrested For Fraud DUTSE - The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Jigawa said it has arrested a 45- year-old man for alleged fraud. Mr. Muhammad Gidado, the State Commandant, told
newsnem that “the suspect had been duping people in Dutse and its environs”. “We finally arrested the suspect after receiving N445,000 and N15,000 from one Alhaji Ibrahim Garba and
Alhaji Murtala Abubakar respectively.” He alleged that the suspect paraded himself as a close associate of Jigawa and Kebbi States governors. He alleged that the suspect promised to secure his victims
contracts to supply 500 cars each to the Kebbi and Jigawa governments. Gidado said the suspect told his victims that the money would be used to pay for his hotel and feeding allowances throughout his stay in the states
L-R: Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State exchanging an MoU with the UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Jean Ghough during the signing of MoU on third face of Girl Child Education Project in Bauchi recently. With them is Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Sanu Burba.
to facilitate the contracts. He said investigation showed that the suspect had duped a lot of people in the state.
Traffic Offence
Driver Jailed 4 Months M A R A R A B A (NASARAWA STATE) - A Senior Magistrates’ Court in Mararaba, Nasarawa state, has sentenced a 50-year-old driver, Mohammed Haruna to four years in prison for road traffic offence. The Senior Magistrate, Mr Iliya Akuf, sentenced Haruna after he pleaded guilty. Akuf, however, gave the convict an option to pay a fine of N4,000. Earlier, the prosecutor, Sgt. Jacob John, had told the court that the convict was caught driving recklessly on the Keffi-Abuja Road on Oct. 4 with an expired drivers licence. John said that the convict, who drove a Toyota Hiace Bus with registration number XP
230 Nasarawa Pilgrims For Pilgrimage LAFIA - Mr. Clement Odeh, the Executive Secretary of Nasarawa State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, said 230 Christian pilgrims would embark on 2013 Christian pilgrimage to Israel from the state. Odeh made this known to newsmen in Lafia. He said that preparation for this year’s transportation of the intending pilgrims to Israel had reached an advanced stage. Odeh said that the board had already conducted a screening exercise for the intended pilgrims in the state. He said that the screening exercise was to ensure that all the intended pilgrims in the state were fit to travel to the holy land. According to him, 200 pilgrims will be sponsored by the state government while 30 of them are to sponsor themselves. “We appreciate the effort of the state government for upward
review of the pilgrims’ number to 200 from the 100 sponsored during the 2012 Christian pilgrimage. “This gesture is in line with the determination of the government to meet the needs of the people and encourage Christians to perform their religious obligation in the holy land,’’ he said. Odeh appealed to the political office holders and public spirited individuals in the society to assist the less privilege in the society to perform their religious obligations.
Provost, College of Health Sciences, Kano, Dr. Ado Bello, the Registrar, Environmental Health Officers Registration Council of Nigeria (EHORECON), Mr. Augustine Ebisike and National President, Environmental Health Officers’ Association of Nigeria (EHOAN), Mr. Aliyu Zakariya during a Thematic Mandatory Continuing Foundation Programme for Registered Health Officers in the Country in Awka on Wednesday.
381KTU hit an unregistered Toyota Land Cruiser belonging to Alhaji Abubakar Dan-Bawuro, the Chief of Ibi, Taraba. He said the offence contravened the provisions of Section 19, 21( 3, 27 and 28) of the Road Traffic Act.
Road Mishap Claims 9
KATSINA - The Katsina State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has confirmed the death of nine persons in a motor accident in Batagarawa Local Government Area of the state. Alhaji Habu Dauda, the FRSC Sector Commander, told newsmen in Katsina that the incident occurred at about 11a.m on Monday at the entrance gate of the Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, on KatsinaDutsinma road. He said the accident involved a bus with registration number AA 479 JH, whose driver lost control while trying to avoid colliding with another vehicle coming out of the university. Dauda said eight persons, including the driver of the bus, died instantly, while one other died later at the hospital. He said six of the passengers were still receiving treatment at the Katsina General Hospital. The commander disclosed that N678,095, sent through the driver of the vehicle to one Alhaji Nura Lawal, was recovered and handed over to the owner.
Traditional Rulers To Up Campaign Against Rape GOMBE - Traditional rulers in Gombe State have promised to reinforce their campaign against rape in the state to save the girl-child from being ruined. They made the promise when members of the Child Protection Network (CPN), an NGO, and officials of the United Nations
Children’s Fund (UNICEF) paid advocacy visit to the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Shehu Abubakar, in Gombe. The District Head of Bolari, in Gombe metropolis, Alhaji Garba Abubakar, who spoke on behalf of the traditional rulers, decried the increasing cases of
courtesy visit in his office in Lafia. He said that arrangement had been put in place to ensure that all the youths benefited to reduce their hardship. “The SURE-P allocation will be used to pay stipends to unemployed youths in the state in order to make them contribute their quota to the growth of the
state and the country at large. “Those that will benefit from the programme will include the unemployed youths and elderly people in the state in order to improve on their standard of living. “There is high rate of unemployment among the youths not only in this state but in the entire country.
rape in the state. He said the royal fathers would reinforce their sensitisation activities to curb the menace. “We were hearing stories about this problem from far away, but today, the problem is with us here.
“We will ensure that we reinforce the campaign against the problem to save our girls from being ruined,” he said. The district head commended CPN, UNICEF and the Ministry of Women Affairs for leading the campaign. Earlier, the Coordinator, CPN
“The state government is doing its best to ensure that the level of unemployment among the youths in the state is reduced to the barest minimum.’’ Lagi urged the youths to promote peace in their domain for the overall development of the state and the country at large. Earlier, Mr. John Musa, the Chairman of the council said
that the visit was to felicitate with him on his appointment and also commiserate with the state government on the recent communal crisis. He called on the state government to come out with policies and programmes that would impact on the lives of the people.
SURE-P: Nasarawa Youths To Get Stipends LAFIA - Mr. Innocent Lagi, the Nasarawa State Attorney General said the state’s Subsidiary Reinvestment and Empowerment programme (SURE-P) allocation would be used as stipends for the youths. Lagi, who is also the Commissioner for Justice, said this when youths from FarinRuwa Development Area paid a
The commandant also alleged that the suspect had confessed to committing the crime and would be arraigned.
Kano, Alhaji Mohammed AliMashi, urged the traditional rulers to take the campaign to their subjects. Ali-Mashi enjoined the traditional rulers to impress on clerics to preach against the menace in mosques, churches, naming ceremonies and other social gatherings. According to him, God has bestowed the duty of protecting children in the hands of their parents “and if they reneged on their responsibilities, they would certainly be punished for the negligence”. Members of the organisations, school children and other participants displayed placards with various messages against rape during a procession through the emir’s drive to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
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Abuja Tourism To Create 2.6m Jobs In APEC Countries ABUJA- The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) said that visa facilitation for tourists would create 2.6 million jobs in the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies by 2016. This is contained in a report issued by the UNWTO and the World Tourism Council in the October edition of the UNWTO Journal, obtained by newsmen in Abuja. The report tagged: ‘The Impact of Visa Facilitation in APEC Economies’, said there had been successful collaboration across the APEC region on visa facilitation to boost tourism. “Progress has been made in the approaches to implement a new visa policy for tourists. “About 21 per cent of expected international tourists arriving into APEC at the period between 2014 and 2016 will be required to obtain a traditional visa, prior to travel under current visa policy. “Facilitating visa for tourists could create as much as 2.6 million additional jobs in the APEC economies by 2016,’’ the
report said. It said that there would also be additional 89 billion dollars in international tourism receipts generated by 57 million more tourists visiting APEC destinations. The report stressed the importance of tourism as a vehicle for job creation, economic growth and development in Asia Pacific. It said that the challenge was to establish cooperation between officials working
Cross section of Participants at the 43rd Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Conference in Abuja recently.
FG May Float Special Intervention Fund
facilities, saying such a creative idea would receive appropriate consideration from government. “We are committed to working with professionals and the private sector to establish better medical facilities in the country and reduce the number of Nigerians who have to go abroad annually for medical reasons,’’ he said. He expressed his administration’s determination to resolve all issues that currently lead to labour disputes and strikes in health and education sectors. “I believe that we must
N35m Scam: ABUJA- An FCT High Court in Abuja has sentenced one Joseph Morah, 52, to 10 years imprisonment for obtaining N35 million from Awalu Abdulrahman, a bureau de change operator, under false pretence. Delivering Judgment, Justice Abubakar Umar said the court considered that the convict was a first time offender and the court acknowledged that he was a
Past President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and Chairman, Workshop on Power, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi (left), with Chairman, Presidential Task Force on Power, Mr. Reynold Dagogo-Jack, who is presenting a paper at the 43rd Conference of ICAN in Abuja recently.
Court Orders FG To Pay N5.7m Debt
Health Sector: ABUJA- President Goodluck Jonathan says his administration will explore the option of creating a special intervention fund to facilitate the establishment of more centres of medical excellence across the country. Jonathan made this known in Abuja at an audience with a delegation from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) led by its President, Dr Osahon Enabulele. He lauded the recommendation for a special fund that would give low interest loans for the establishment of state-of-the-art medical
in tourism, finance, customs, immigration, security, transportation and airport authorities. The report called on the APEC leaders to look at the opportunities arising from visa facilitation. “This report clearly shows that placing visa facilitation as a national priority can translate into significant socio-economic benefits in terms of income and jobs generated by the growth of tourism.
manage both sectors in such a way that nobody engaged in them will think of going on strike again. “We will continue to proactively evolve measures that will help us to permanently overcome the problems that lead to strikes by health and education professionals.’’ He assured NMA delegation that his administration would create the right conditions for Nigerian medical professionals to stay at home and avail Nigerians of their skills and
Man Jailed 10yrs
family man with huge responsibilities. “Having appreciated the fact that the convict is now a born again man, the sentence will start from 2010,” he said. The judge said the prosecution, by evidence and testimonies of witnesses, had proved its case beyond reasonable doubts. He said that the prosecution succeeded in linking the convict to the charge.
Umar said that the convict did not call any witness to testify on his behalf. The convict was arraigned by the EFCC alongside one John Obiamalu on a three-count charge of conspiracy and obtaining the amount under false pretence in November 2006. Umar had since discharged and acquitted Obiamalu of the three count-charge.
expertise instead of migrating to other countries. The president said that he was determined to correct the anomaly of Nigeria being so strong in terms of human capacity in medicine, but yet being unable to treat many of its sick people in its own hospitals. “There is a clearly missing link somewhere and we will do everything possible to fix it. “We will continue to work with professional bodies and all stakeholders to come up with more policies and actions that will help us overcome current challenges in our medical sector. “We will work with the National Assembly to ensure the quick passage of the National Health Bill. We will take prompt action to reconstitute the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria. “We will also consider recommendations for the establishment of the Office of Surgeon-General of the Federation. “I believe that we must always do what is best for our country. We will review all the other issues you have raised and act accordingly.’’ According to the President,
when things are done properly, issues of welfare and remuneration in the health sector will disappear. Enabulele had earlier assured Jonathan of the NMA’s support for his administration’s agenda for national transformation and proposed national dialogue. He, however, called for the reconstitution of the main regulatory body in the health sector, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, which was dissolved in 2011. He called for faster action on the passage of the National Health Bill and other issues related to the creation of an environment conducive for smooth operation of doctors and other healthcare professionals such as remuneration, welfare and training. The president was decorated with the emblem of the NMA by Prof. Umaru Shehu, at the event. The NMA delegation also included the Emir of Tsonga, Dr Haliru Yahaya, the NMA Second Vice-President, Dr Uche Ojinmah, and the SecretaryGeneral of the association, Dr Akpufuoma Pemu.
ABUJA- An Abuja High Court has ordered the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism to pay N5.7 million to two firms, Jerry Kings Computers and Jafrotecs Global Services Ltd. Delivering judgment, Justice Angela Otaluka of the Lugbe High Court, Abuja ordered the ministry to pay the two companies N4.9 million and N757,000, respectively, and N50,000 out-of-pocket expenses. Joined in the suit as defendants are the Minister of Culture and Tourism and the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation. “The defendants are ordered to pay to the first and second defendants the sum of N4.9 million and N 757,000, respectively, being the worth of office equipment supplied to the defendants. “The defendants are to pay the sum of N50,000 as out-of-pocket expenses to the plaintiffs,” Otaluka said. According to reports that the plaintiffs had sued the defendants in July for alleged breach of contract. The Managing Director of the companies, Mr Amaechi Ude, had through his counsel, Mr Humphrey Elechi, alleged that the two firms entered into contract with the defendants on July 11, 2012. “The plaintiffs supplied brands and qualities of office equipment to the defendants on July 17, 2012 in accordance with the terms of the contract and, therefore, fulfilled their contract obligations.’’ Elechi said the defendants, however, refused to pay his clients after several demands. Reports say that the matter was brought under the undefended list, meaning that the defendants did not enter appearance and were not represented by a counsel, despite evidence that they were served court processes.
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Business + Economy Fish Farmers Laud FG
JOS- Fish farmers in Plateau have lauded the Federal Government’s aquaculture Growth Enhancement Support (GES) scheme under which fish farming inputs were distributed to them across the state. It would be recalled that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture had on Friday October 4 distributed fingerlings and feeds to fish farmers in the state. The reports state that 500 fingerlings were given to each of the 840 fish farmers free of charge, while the farmers paid 50 per cent of the cost of feeds. Mr Joshua Bitrus, a fish beneficiary, told newsmen that the gesture would assist farmers to expand their farms, boost fish
production and create employment. “I sincerely commend the Minister of Agriculture for the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA). The new ideas he had introduced had boosted all spheres of agriculture in the country. “The fingerlings and the feeds will help us (farmers) and it will further expand the fish industry in the country which is a major source of refined protein. “Fish has the best and safest source of protein but successive administrations in the country failed to give fish farming the attention it deserved.’’ Bitrus stated that he was a beneficiary one of the people that
got the fingerlings that were distributed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in July this year. “I was fortunate to be one of the beneficiaries of the fingerlings distributed by FAO to farmers who were affected by the 2012 flood and I bred the
fingerlings to mature fishes which are ready for eating and selling,’’ he said. Meanwhile, Prof. John Wade, the President, Plateau Fish Farmers Cooperative Society, described the gesture as a celebration of practical governance.
Wade said that the distribution of the fingerlings and feeds would stimulate the growth of fish farming in the Plateau. “We believe that the activity will get to the grassroots farmers and boost fish farming. “Our cooperative society would work hand in hand with the Federal and Plateau Ministries of Agriculture to give our farmers the best management
Vaccine Dispute
Association Seeks FG’s Intervention
Organisation Urges Improved Internet Availability ABUJA- Prof. Tim Unwin, the Secretary-General, C o m m o n w e a l t h Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Organisation (CTO), has called for more collaboration among member countries to ensure affordable Internet connectivity through broadband. Unwin made the call at the 53rd Council Meeting and 11th Annual Conference of the organisation in Abuja. He also urged member countries to avoid undue competition, stressing that they should instead work together to provide Internet access for “under-served persons” through broadband. Unwin also called on the member states to learn from one another ’s mistakes, while making pragmatic efforts to improve on their policies, strategies and initiatives so as enable their citizens to access affordable Internet connection. “It is challenging that Africans don’t learn from one another’s mistakes; let us collaborate and stop being competitive to ensure that the results we have are available and used to deliver critical agenda. “I believe that through pragmatic partnership, we can deliver solutions to most of the problems of the marginalised people. “People just talk, put strategies on bookshelves and don’t turn them into reality; “CTO is out to encourage its members to do practical delivery,’’ he added. Unwin said that CTO was working on a capacity development programme for young people in six different areas, He identified the areas as human capacity development, skills’ development and entrepreneurship, broadband, regulatory environment, cyber security, review on ICT and how people with disabilities can use ICT. He noted that less than two per cent of African countries had full Internet connectivity, adding: “This is not good enough; we really need to do more to improve the situation.’’ Unwin said that cyber security
had long been on the agenda of CTO in its efforts to fight cyber crime which, he noted, had been a hindrance to the member countries’ economic development. Pavilions at the Lagos International Fashion exhibition in Lagos recently.
Buyers Lament High Cost Of Ram
BAUCHI- Muslim faithful wishing to buy ram for the forthcoming Eid-el Kabir, have complained of the high cost of ram in Bauchi. Muslim faithful annually sacrifice rams and other lawful animals to seek for Allah’s blessings and intervention in crises. A survey by newsmen in some markets in the state, showed that the price of rams had jumped by about 30 per cent to 40 per cent compared to last year. Some buyers who spoke to newsmen on Tuesday in Bauchi complained that rams sold for N20,000 last year now cost as much as N32,000. They said that a medium
practices to enable them to make the best use of the opportunity.’’ Dr Agaldo Ishaya, a fish farmer from Bassa Local Government Area of the state, said that the gesture was an encouragement for him and other farmers to do more. “I have been in fish farming and this will encourage me do much more than I was doing before,’’ he said.
size ram sold for about N47, 000 while a big one cost about N70, 000 compared to N35, 000 and N50, 000, respectively last year. Alhaji Nasiru Adam, a resident of Bauchi metropolis who travelled to Soro village to buy rams, said he only managed to buy three rams instead of the six he initially budgeted for. “I travelled to Soro with the intention of buying six rams but ended up buying.” He expressed fears that many people might not be able to fulfil part of their religious obligations through the sacrifice this year unless the prices dropped. Similarly, Malam Sulaiman Ibrahim, a civil servant, said
he was at the cattle market in Bauchi but could not buy due to the high cost. “I went with N25,000 so that I can buy at least a reasonable sized ram but I was unable to do so because my money could only buy me a small size.” Hajiya Salamatu Isa of Wunti area said she was unable to buy a ram N30,000 after hard bargaining. Some of the ram sellers blamed the price hike on high cost of living and transportation. Alhaji Ali Mai-Raguna, who said he had been in the business for several years, attributed this year’s high prices to dwindling economy
and security challenges in the zone. The trader told newsmen that in previous years, he could travel to neighbouring states and buy the animals, but could not do so now due to the fragile security situation. “I used to travel to places like Yobe, Gombe and even Adamawa states to buy rams, but now because of the security and economic situations I could not,” he said. Another seller, Malam Shuaibu Musa, said he also bought the rams at high prices, hence he was selling to make profit too. “You see, I travelled to local markets in villages and had to pay for my transport and that of the animals. “It is because of this factor that I have to charge high prices otherwise I will run at a loss,” he said.
KANO- The Trovan Victims Association, Kano has called on the Federal Government to intervene in the lingering dispute between Pfizer Inc. of America and the victims of the 1996 meningitis clinical trial. Alhaji Mustapha Maisikeli, the Chairman of the association, made the call in Kano while addressing newsmen on the progress of the case. He said the association had forwarded its complaints to the Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan and members representing Kano State in the National Assembly. Maisikeli said the association would go back to court in Nigeria and the U.S. if Pfizer failed to honour the agreement entered into after the interventions by government. “We were given the right by the U.S. Supreme Court to further file a case against Pfizer if it failed in its obligations. An Abuja Court is also going to listen to our case later in November. “We intend to keep to our pledge of making an out-of-court settlement as agreed at our various meetings with Kano State Government, our lawyers and that of Pfizer.’’ He said that only six of the 200 victims were compensated. “’Out of the 75 million dollars released for compensation, the legal fees of 10 million dollars was paid to Kano State Government. “Arrangement is also being made for the disbursement of 35 million dollars for the construction of a health facility in Kano. “The issue is that only six victims have been paid out of the 35 million dollars agreed to be given to the victims.’’
Price Of Ram Soars In Kaduna
Mobile tailors searching for customers at Lugbe in Abuja on Wednesday.
KADUNA - Cost of rams have gone up in Kaduna as Muslims prepare for this year’s Ed-el-Kabir festival. A check at the Zango, Sardauna road and Tudun Wada markets in the city shows only a few customers attempting to make purchases. Some of the customers said the prices were too high compared to last year. Reports say also that the prices ranged between N25, 000 and N95, 000 this year as against N20, 000 to N85, 000 during the same period last year in all the
markets visited. A customer, Mohammed Abdulkadir, who was met haggling over the price of a medium sized ram at Tudun Wada market, lamented over the high price, but hoped that the cost would crash before the commencement of the celebration. Another customer at Zango market, Ismail Sulaiman said he was unable to buy any ram due to the high price and would wait until after the Eid prayers on Tuesday before buying.
THE NIGERIAN
11
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY (EQUITIES) AS AT YESTERDAY (10/10/13) Stocks
Open
Close
Change
Deals
Units
Value
MULTIVERSE
0.5
0.5
0
0
100
50
6.2
6.2
0
0
264,009
1,632,278.08
ABBEYBDS
1.49
1.49
0
0
500
710
NAHCO
ABCTRANS
0.8
0.8
0
0
614,880
483,559.00
NASCON
12.4
12.38
-0.02
0
462,320
5,681,694.22
ACADEMY
1.89
1.89
0
0
2,081
3,849.85
NB
170
169.9
-0.1
0
733,951
124,695,351.80
ACCESS
10.6
10.6
0
0
23,413,425
248,179,000.70
NCR
16.83
16.83
0
0
700
11,193.00
AFRIPRUD
1.95
1.95
0
0
33,098
62,969.36
NEIMETH
1.14
1.14
0
0
57,500
66,740.00
AGLEVENT
1.65
1.65
0
0
28,727
45,772.45
NEM
0.68
0.67
-0.01
0
2,461,896
1,671,649.76
AIICO
0.82
0.86
0.04
0
3,184,285
2,715,531.86
NESTLE
1000
1000.01
0.01
0
160,752
160,756,959.30
AIRSERVICE
3.63
3.69
0.06
0
359,600
1,320,458.00
NIGERINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
203,080
101,540.00
0.82
0.85
0.03
0
208,551
177,268.35
ASHAKACEM
20.97
22
1.03
0
704,582
15,060,472.89
NPFMCRFBK
BECOPETRO
0.5
0.5
0
0
20,000
10,000.00
OANDO
10.65
10.65
0
0
3,841,123
41,041,768.98
BERGER
8.3
8
-0.3
0
319,964
2,536,825.96
OASISINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
1,080,423
540,211.50
BETAGLAS
12.46
12.45
-0.01
0
137,160
1,697,203.90
OKOMUOIL
45.5
45.5
0
0
137,174
6,029,832.10
CADBURY
50.25
51.68
1.43
0
412,080
20,782,298.57
OMATEK
0.5
0.5
0
0
500
250
CAP
38.85
38.85
0
0
116,248
4,692,999.84
PAINTCOM
2.2
2.2
0
0
1,950
4,095.00
CAPALBETO
95.49
95.49
0
0
1,000
90,720.00
PHARMDEKO
1.85
1.85
0
0
5,000
8,800.00
CCNN
9
9
0
0
358,502
3,359,619.06
PORTPAINT
4.81
5
0.19
0
271,000
1,355,920.00
34
34.49
0.49
0
179,970
6,209,851.70
CILEASING
0.5
0.5
0
0
5,000
2,500.00
PRESCO
CONOIL
28.8
28.8
0
0
78,503
2,372,519.96
PRESTIGE
0.57
0.57
0
0
153,326
86,520.42
CONTINSURE
1.14
1.09
-0.05
0
1,553,000
1,708,344.00
PZ
38
37.27
-0.73
0
323,914
12,198,577.98
CORNERST
0.5
0.5
0
0
337,000
168,510.00
REDSTAREX
4.49
4.49
0
0
73,000
317,080.00
COSTAIN
1.15
1.11
-0.04
0
174,000
194,810.00
ROADS
8.46
8.46
0
0
9,466
77,147.90
COURTVILLE
0.66
0.66
0
0
193,867
128,252.22
ROYALEX
0.5
0.5
0
0
454,986
228,493.00
CUSTODYINS
1.62
1.63
0.01
0
4,870,275
7,890,243.32
RTBRISCOE
1.38
1.32
-0.06
0
391,785
519,909.75
CUTIX
1.95
1.88
-0.07
0
188,222
357,140.19
SKYEBANK
4.3
4.4
0.1
0
2,153,444
9,360,167.16
0.5
0.5
0
0
177
88.5
DANGCEM
194.94
189.5
-5.44
0
553,331
105,084,737.50
SOVRENINS
DANGFLOUR
9.12
9.22
0.1
0
457,404
4,248,212.09
STANBIC
19.21
19.2
-0.01
0
1,167,188
22,420,563.87
DANGSUGAR
11.05
11
-0.05
0
1,002,371
11,045,867.67
STARCOMMS
0.5
0.5
0
0
100,000
50,000.00
DIAMONDBNK
6.3
6.35
0.05
0
6,159,898
39,201,367.99
STERLNBANK
2.3
2.31
0.01
0
685,572
1,589,674.81
DUNLOP
0.5
0.5
0
0
2,664
1,332.00
THOMASWY
0.95
0.91
-0.04
0
122,000
111,020.00
ETI
13.62
13.99
0.37
0
193,881
2,680,458.61
TOTAL
157
157.5
0.5
0
52,061
8,202,130.51
FBNH
16.73
16.6
-0.13
0
7,755,180
128,918,139.80
TRANSCORP
1.63
1.71
0.08
0
78,635,245
132,081,301.90
FCMB
3.8
3.81
0.01
0
4,309,051
16,435,516.46
UAC-PROP
15.76
15.76
0
0
176,405
2,820,947.80
63.45
61.52
-1.93
0
284,650
17,518,807.56
FIDELITYBK
2.79
2.73
-0.06
0
7,407,883
19,956,203.40
UACN
FIDSON
2.04
2.06
0.02
0
516,357
1,044,606.42
UBA
7.4
7.6
0.2
0
17,125,495
129,582,953.40
FLOURMILL
82.99
82.99
0
0
107,876
8,765,676.54
UBCAP
1.45
1.45
0
0
1,138,285
1,662,541.38
FO
45.72
48
2.28
0
265,586
12,748,082.40
UBN
10.31
10.3
-0.01
0
4,881,136
50,313,113.04
FORTISMFB
6.6
6.6
0
0
600
3,960.00
UNHOMES
0.5
0.5
0
0
250
125
FTNCOCOA
0.5
0.5
0
0
1,500
750
UNIC
0.5
0.5
0
0
500
250
GCAPPA
14.46
14.46
0
0
115
1,662.90
UNILEVER
61.04
61.04
0
0
386,631
23,924,782.93
GLAXOSMITH
65
65
0
0
108,395
7,045,966.28
UNITYBNK
0.59
0.57
-0.02
0
13,864,530
7,905,017.10
0.5
0.5
0
0
500
250
GUARANTY
25.2
25.14
-0.06
0
10,519,058
264,695,279.90
UNIVINSURE
GUINNESS
245.6
245.6
0
0
21,806
5,369,050.42
UPDCREIT
10.5
10.5
0
0
3,020
31,710.00
HMARKINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
20,410,000
10,205,000.00
UPL
3.99
3.99
0
0
588,742
2,323,429.50
HONYFLOUR
2.85
2.8
-0.05
0
1,088,451
3,114,750.16
UTC
0.7
0.7
0
0
39,050
27,605.00
IHS
2.8
2.8
0
0
13,218,330
37,129,709.60
VANLEER
12.68
12.68
0
0
8,440
101,702.00
IKEJAHOTEL
0.75
0.75
0
0
118,240
88,680.00
VITAFOAM
4
4
0
0
83,108
336,498.16
INTBREW
19.41
19.41
0
0
125,472
2,447,500.36
VONO
1.93
1.93
0
0
17,200
31,648.00
INTENEGINS
0.84
0.86
0.02
0
985,965
792,374.08
WAGLASS
0.63
0.63
0
0
1,000
600
99
99
0
0
110,785
10,981,268.50
IPWA
0.92
0.89
-0.03
0
111,170
98,329.60
WAPCO
JAPAULOIL
0.5
0.5
0
0
1,268,200
634,100.00
WAPIC
0.97
1.01
0.04
0
24,795,570
24,333,109.95
JBERGER
77.85
77
-0.85
0
177,055
13,486,464.75
WEMABANK
1.34
1.28
-0.06
0
23,977,122
31,948,747.48
JOHNHOLT
1.24
1.3
0.06
0
51,124
66,417.20
ZENITHBANK
20.7
20.82
0.12
0
10,469,829
218,829,937.60
LEARNAFRCA
1.7
1.7
0
0
63,693
106,896.31
LENNARDS
3.48
3.48
0
0
50
165.5
LIVESTOCK
3.9
3.9
0
0
100,700
388,938.00
MANSARD
2.1
2.05
-0.05
0
906,000
1,832,320.04
MAYBAKER
2.22
2.21
-0.01
0
391,070
865,221.76
MOBIL
110.05
115
4.95
0
97,487
11,001,740.21
MRS
36.14
36.14
0
0
800
27,472.00
TOP 10 GAINERS Stock MOBIL FO CADBURY ASHAKACEM TOTAL PRESCO ETI UBA PORTPAINT ZENITHBANK
Close 115 48 51.68 22 157.5 34.49 13.99 7.6 5 20.82
TOP TOP 10 10 LOSERS GAINERS Gain
Stock
4.95 2.28 1.43 1.03 0.5 0.49 0.37 0.2 0.19 0.12
DANGCEM UACN JBERGER PZ BERGER FBNH NB CUTIX GUARANTY FIDELITYBK
Close 189.5 61.52 77 37.27 8 16.6 169.9 1.88 25.14 2.73
Loss -5.44 -1.93 -0.85 -0.73 -0.3 -0.13 -0.1 -0.07 -0.06 -0.06
THE NIGERIAN
12
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
ON the occasion of the 53rd independence anniversary of Nigeria, President Goodluck Jonathan in a nationwide broadcast announced an Advisory Committee mandated to establish modalities for a national conference aimed at resolving issues that currently cause friction in the polity. PRESIDENT Jonathan said that the committee, which will have Dr. Femi Okurounmu as its Chairperson and Dr. Akilu Indabawa as its Secretary. While inaugurating the 13-member committee at the State House, President Goodluck Jonathan told the team to complete their assignment within six weeks. WE welcome the decision of President Jonathan since it takes into cognizance suggestions over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need for a national dialogue on the future of our beloved country. There is consensus that there has been discontentment in the land. The discontentment and alienation has fueled extremism, apathy and even predictions of catastrophe for the country. This means that, if one united Nigeria is still cherished, the bases for such unity must be negotiated and agreed upon. WE must be quick to point that the conference must not be the soap opera that was organized by former President Olusegun Obasanjo or Abdulsalami Abubakar which select friends and well wishers were the attendees. WE are also in agreement with Mr. President that “when there are issues that constantly stoke tension and bring about friction, it makes perfect sense for the interested parties to come together to discuss.” We are also glad that the Senate President, David Mark who is well known opponent of a national conference with the
THE NIGERIAN
Task Before CONFAB Advisory Committee argument that “there cannot be a sovereign within a sovereign,” was the harbinger of the President Jonathan’s announcement. Mark, while welcoming senators from their sevenweek annual vacation, said “every matter about the union of ethnic groups that made up the country should be opened to discussion but warned that the dismemberment of the country should be a no-go area for the conference.” IN setting clear agenda for the Advisory committee which will be inaugurated by Mr. President next week, we disagree with Senate President and all those thinking along with him on “no-go areas.” There should be no restrictions as to the issues to be discussed by the conference. We believe that the first item that should be on the agenda is whether Nigeria should remain or not. Nigerians must be in agreement to remain as one indivisible entity. Nobody can force a union that so many have questioned in the country on the people. That is the beginning point of discussions. If Nigerians from various backgrounds decide to go their separate ways peacefully, no one should halt them. Professor Ango Abdulahi, Spokesman for the Northern Elders Forum has said the north is not afraid of a break up. Chief Uwazuruike of MASSOB has offered their willingness to go their own way. The people of Oduduwa, have equally aired their position. Nigerians know the benefits of our diversity but we must agree as a people to continue with the union or not.
SECONDLY, if we agree to remain as one Nigeria, we must also look at the current structure if we are satisfied with the military balkanized country. Thirty six states, with only four viable is not sustainable. The conference must review and agree on either a return to the 1963 constitution that provides for regional government or a reviewed structure of such, so that with or without crude oil, the regions can survive. We also recommend that the local government structure should be discussed. We cannot continue with military contrived states or whatever nomenclature the federating units may assume should determine how many local governments or counties they can sustainably put in place, perhaps through a plebiscite after the conference. THIRDLY, we expect a loose federation if Nigeria is to remain one at the end of the day, whereby the regions or states will observe strictly the true fiscal federalism, producing and generating their incomes and paying an agreed percentage to the centre. We believe that for sustainable economic productivity and faster development, we must make the centre less attractive to avoid the “do or die” politics currently witnessed at the centre. There should be devolution of powers to the federating regions or states to further make the centre less attractive. FOURTHLY, parliamentary system of government is desirable for a country like Nigeria because, the presidential system of government is very expensive to maintain. Nigeria has experimented this system in its early days post independence and could jolly well return to the arrangement. LASTLY on expectations at the conference proper, Nigerians look forward to a new constitution at the end of the day if they agree to be one or a number of constitutions for the number of countries that may emerge. We believe that if transparently and honestly executed, the planned conference would resolve once and for all the myriad of problems buffeting the Nigerian state.
THE NIGERIAN
13
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Opinion
WHY are liberals in so much denial about liberal bias in the news? Why do they think they’re bending over backward to be “objective” doing that which Republicans see as partisan activism? Daniel Froomkin of the Huffington Post formerly of The Washington Postsuggests an answer. He is exactly the kind of liberal agitator in the newsroom who wants every news story to be a blazing editorial. Every reporter must divide the world clearly between Liberal Sense and Conservative Nonsense. His latest article is titled, “Writing a Neutral Story About Something So Heartless. As the Food Stamp Vote Is Not Good Journalism.” On Sept. 19, The New York Times reported, “The Republican-led House yesterday voted to make deep cuts to the food stamps program that has kept millions of American families from going hungry since the recession hit, saying its response to growing need was instead a sign of bloat and abuse.” In short, Democrats keep families from starving. Republicans reject “growing need” as “bloat.” Froomkin argued that attempting objectivity, like quoting awful Republicans, creates h o r r e n d o u s
Only Propaganda Is ‘Good Journalism’?
“triangulating mush” that fails to educate voters. The Republican food-stamp vote was for him “a blatantly absurd and cruel move (that) struck me as a good test of whether the Washington press corps could ever bring itself to call things as they so obviously are or whether they would check their very good brains at the door and just write triangulating mush that leaves readers to fend for themselves.” Republicans should complain that while the Times story contained spending numbers and quoted both Democrats and Republicans, it contained the usual liberal media bias indeed, editorial slant — in favor of social programs growing by leaps and bounds, forever and ever. But Froomkin was livid at the Times. “Like those at essentially every other mainstream news organization, they wrote it straight. They focused on procedure. They quoted both sides. And they called it a day.” F r o o m k i n characterized Republicans quoted in the Times as either “ f a b u l o u s l y disingenuous” or “ s h o c k i n g l y dishonest.” Froomkin would prefer these fools to be banned entirely from the news
pages, unless they were tarred and feathered in print as unhinged extremists. Only that socialist view is the “truth.” Rep. Marlin Stutzman
contrasts “a nonsensical nonargument with a fact and makes it sound like two equal sides.” The Democratic “fact” was that the dramatic
was “fabulously disingenuous” to insist that anti-poverty programs be measured by lifting people out of poverty, not just increasing spending in an era of trillion-dollar deficits. Somehow, he’s the irrational one. But when Republicans talk of dramatic spending increases in a news story, Froomkin faults reporters. He claimed it
increase showed “the program was doing its job.” Froomkin is such a censorious Pravda-style writer that he even faulted his own colleagues at The Huffington Post for allowing “a long and utterly disingenuous quote from [Eric] Cantor, left unrebutted.” These are the facts
“Like those at essentially every other mainstream news organization, they wrote it straight. They focused on procedure. They quoted both sides. And they called it a day.”
Froomkin thinks are “disingenuous.” Since taking office, the Obama administration has more than doubled spending on food stamps. Spending rose
from $39 billion in 2008 to a projected $85 billion in 2012. House Republicans just voted to cut $40 billion from food stamps over a 10year span, which, in federal-budget terms, is a tiny blip, not a “deep cut.” The Times story admitted that even with these “cuts,” the food stamp program “would cost more than $700 billion over the next 10 years.” The Times also noted that Senate Democrats insisted there would be no “cuts.” President Obama is responsible for a record number of food stamp recipients (47.7 million in June 2013). That’s 6
million more Americans than when Obama’s “recovery summer” began in June 2010. Froomkin thought the newspaper accounts should agree with his view that the House vote was “not only an undeniable act of heartlessness, it was also perhaps the ultimate example of how today’s increasingly radical and unhinged GOP leadership picks on the poor, coddles the rich, makes thinly veiled appeals to racism and plays time-wasting political games instead of governing.” Froomkin saw some merit in The Washington Post vote on this story, since it suggested conservative racism in pointing out the Census Bureau reports that almost half the food-stamp recipients are black or Hispanic. “People at the Post are smart enough to realize that the primary political benefit to the GOP of attacking food stamps — and blaming Obama for the increase in their use — is that it serves as a dogwhistle, affirming to the base that Republican leaders are against letting shiftless minorities keep taking money out of your (white) pockets. People at the Post are not brave enough to say so, however.” After listening to their Froomkin-esque friends, liberal reporters think they’ve been painfully objective and dreadfully tolerant of R e p u b l i c a n viewpoints. That’s one reason the waterfall of liberal bias never stops flowing.
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Science
IF the prospect of an everexpanding universe that eventually stretches into a vast emptiness isn’t depressing enough, there’s this: the universe may have cracks in it. Cracks, called cosmic strings, are topological defects in space-time that might have formed when the universe was young. Experiments haven’t found any proof that cosmic strings are even out there, but that hasn’t stopped physicists from calculating how many strings we might expect there to be if, in fact, they turn out to exist after all. And it’s a lot: cosmic strings would produce at least a billion loops throughout the visible universe today, researchers report. “Cosmic strings are these filaments which wind and sneak throughout the universe,” says study coauthor Benjamin Shlaer of Tufts University. They are essentially one-dimensional fault lines in space, made not of mass but pure energy. Some could be infinitely long, and all are almost impossibly thin, much narrower than a proton. Cosmic strings may have formed as the universe cooled after the big bang. Just as water undergoes a “phase Continued from page 14
RECONCILIATION OF NAME I, Tufah Benedict Tamaraebitimi wish to bring for the information of the general public that I am the same person as Tufah Benedict Ese as appeared in my First Bank Plc. It should be known therefore that I am properly known and addressed as Tufah Benedict Tamaraebitimi. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities, NIFOR and First Bank Plc should please take note.
The Cosmos Is Cracked transition” from liquid to solid when it freezes, the universe changed radically when it went through a transition from being extremely hot and dense in the instants just after the big bang to slightly cooler and more rarefied just a few fractions of a second later. According to a popular theory, in the hot and dense universe three of the four forces of nature (weak, strong and electromagnetic) were unified but in the cooler universe they separated. When this symmetry among the forces broke, it might have created topological defects in the form of strings, so named because they would be long, thin fissures in space. (Despite the similar names, cosmic strings may or may not be related to the strings predicted to make up fundamental particles in string theory .) These strings would have started off tangled and wrinkly when the universe was in its hot, dense state but would have stretched out over time as space itself expanded. This movement would cause some strings to cross others. “When they wind back on themselves they break so that the wrinkles snap off as closed loops, like little rubber bands.” The loops
CORRECTION OF NAME I, Paula Ebemhen Okosun wish to bring for information of the general public that I am the same person as Paola Ebemhen Eseosa Okosun. Henceforth I am now properly known and addressed as Paula Ebemhen Okosun. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities and general public should please take note.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE HOUSE OF DESTINY FAMILY CHURCH INT’L The general public is hereby notified that the above named Church has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990. BOARD OF TRUSTEES 1. Pastor Ogidigbo Gaga 2. Pastor Otunla Ezekiel 3. Pastor Igbinobaro Wilson 4. Pastor Eshabuko Oghenefejiro Shielar 5. Pastor Ivwighren Oghenekparobo Theophilous AIMS& OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the complete Gospel of Lord Jesus, for the liberation of mankind. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar- General, Corporate Affairs Commission plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: TRUSTEES
are what astronomers might be able to detect because they would oscillate, producing measurable ripples in spacetime called gravitational
waves. Shlaer and his colleagues created a numerical simulation of cosmic string loop formation and ran it on a supercomputer
cluster at the university. The results told them how big loops are likely to be when they form, and by extrapolating, the researchers calculated the
Sun Unleashes Strongest Solar Flare In 2 Months
THE strongest solar flare in nearly two months erupted from the sun Tuesday (Oct. 8), causing a minor geomagnetic storm as charged particles from the sun passed by the planet. The sun unleashed the moderate M2.8-class solar flare at 9:48 p.m. EDT (0148 GMT on Oct. 9). NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) recorded a video of the October solar flare’s dramatic genesis. M-class solar flares are generally considered to be midrange solar storms, but Tuesday’s eruption was still the strongest in months due to the sun’s oddly quiet activity. Xclass flares are the most powerful type of solar storm, with C-class flares classified as solar tempests at a step below M-class events. Yesterday’s solar flare was not aimed directly at Earth, but it did cause a minor geomagnetic storm yesterday. The storm has since subsided, but another wave of geomagnetic activity could follow, according to forecasters at the Space Weather Prediction Center, a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). “The G1 (Minor) Geomagnetic Storm of the early hours on October 9 has weakened, and now forecasters await another shock in the next few hours,” officials at the Space Weather Prediction Center wrote in an update yesterday. Geomagnetic storms occur when solar particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field. Powerful solar flares aimed directly at Earth can sometimes cause significant disruptions to satellites in space, and can knock out power grids and communications infrastructure on the ground. Tuesday’s M-class flare
erupted from a sunspot region called AR1865, which will be turning to face Earth over the next few days, according to Spaceweather.com. Sunspots are temporary blemishes on the solar surface that are caused by intense magnetic activity. These structures sometimes erupt into flares and solar storms that blast streams of plasma and charged particles into space. A different region on the sun also appears to be waking up, according to the Space Weather Prediction Center. “That active region will be Earth-facing for the next 11 days or so, possibly fueling additional eruptions from an otherwise quiet sun,” experts said in an update. Unlike many federal agencies, which are shuttered due to the
ongoing government shutdown, the Space Weather Prediction Center operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration continues to post updates on space weather events because of their potential impact to astronauts and satellites in space, and infratructure on the ground. Strong solar flares can also supercharge the Earth’s auroras, causing magnificent northern lights displays. Astronomers closely monitor sunspots because they act as indicators of the sun’s current status. Solar activity typically ebbs and flows on an 11-year cycle. The sun is currently in the midst of Solar Cycle 24, and scientists had predicted solar activity would ramp up this year toward the solar maximum. Until now, however, the sun has remained strangely calm.
number and size of the loops that might exist in the universe at any given time. The results depend on how taut the strings are—a property determined by the temperature of the universe when they were formed. For a likely range of tensions, the scientists calculated that billions of cosmic string loops could exist today. “The Tufts group has done a heroic job with the string simulations, and they pin down important features of the loop distribution critical for predicting gravitational-wave emission and their effects on millisecond pulsar timing,” says Tanmay Vachaspati, a physicist at Arizona State University in Tempe who wasn’t involved in the research. The new study gives observers a better idea of what to look for in the quest to find evidence of cosmic strings. The strings would create gravitational waves that could be detectable by elaborate wave-detecting facilities such as LIGO (the Laser Interferometer GravitationalWave Observatory) in the U.S. or by studies of rapidly rotating stars called pulsars, which emit beacons of light with clockwork precision. If astronomers on Earth notice a change in the arrival time of light from pulsars, it could mean a gravitational wave has hit our planet. The fact that no evidence for gravitational waves has yet been found already eliminates the possibility of cosmic strings with a given range of tensions. Whether or not any cosmic strings exist is still an open question. If they are out there, now we know they would be abundant
Elzbieta weds Osas Former Miss Elzbieta Skrzeszewska weds Idehen Osas Osamudiamen at the Oredo Local Government Marriage Registry in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria on October 5, 2013. Dignitaries at the ceremony included parents of the groom and other members of the family. The couple is flanked by friends.
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Insight
IN today’s world, no individual can do without the media and as such is exposed to one form of media or the other. The mass media have become so indispensable in the scheme of things today. From radio to magazines, they cut across divides. HOWEVER, the the worldwide media rely on modern phenomenon of technology to get across t e c h n o l o g i c a l , to the world whatever economic, political and they have. Technology cultural exchanges, is the orchestrator of brought about by globalisation through modern communication, the media. The mass transportation and legal media, technology and infrastructure as well as globalisation, are like a the political choice to three –legged stand/ consciously trade and tripod and cannot stand cross-border links in without one another in international trade and their roles. finance. DEFINTION OF It is also used to KEY TERMS describe how human T E C H N O L O G Y: being are becoming According to more intertwined with Webopedia, it is the each other around the application of science, world economically, especially for industrial politically and or commercial culturally. objectives. It is also the Again, the body of knowledge International forum on available to a society globalisation, defines it that is used in as “the present fashioning implements, worldwide drive practicing manual arts towards a globalised and skills, and economic system extracting or collecting dominated by materials. supernational corporate MEDIA: One of the trade and banking c o m m o n e s t institutions that are not understanding of the accountable to media is that they are democratic processes or devices, means and national government”. channels of What then are the c o m m u n i c a t i o n connecting lines (Mustapha, 2009; between, technology, Defleur and Dennis media and (1981) in Keghku, g l o b a l i z a t i o n ? 2003). According to Kaul Similarly, Ike Ndidi (2011), what is certain is (2005), defines media that globalization, in as the plural form of the media (especially new word “medium”. The media) is often being media include: “those regarded as the main institutional structures vehicle for its rapid that foster rapid, expansion. He further transmission of stated that in information to a sociological and cultural relatively large analyses of audience through a globalization, media channel or medium” such as satellite GLOBALISATION television, the internet, The term computers, mobile globalization refers to phones among others,
Technology, Media An are often thought to be among the primary forces behind current interconnectedness across vast distances and a temporal flexibility in social interaction. Today, there are a number of global media house as cable News Network(CNN), BBC, Aljazeera and others. Their availability in most parts of the globe is a direct impact of technology. Terrestial or
business that is dominated by mass media corporations promoting their own interest. Also, media and economic experts have observed that with technological advancements, fierce competition by media conglomerates, cannot be ruled out. Media outlets have gone a step further to outwit their rivals with new
online site to get the full gist. Same goes for radio stations as they can be listened to online. One need not to be in Nigeria to listen to a favourite radio station as only a software, like internet application, will be needed to do such from any part of the globe. Again, the print media have been reshaped by breakthroughs in
By EMMANUEL EG
societal, cultural and community effects of telecommunications, which is often used as a metaphor to describe the internet and the world wide web, he foresaw a shrinked into one big village through technological innovations. After many years of that “prophecy” the discovery of the internet,
h in o o h p c d w
h fr b c si b Is n
b c O c d
o a c in cable television. CNN will broadcast its signals from New York and it will be received through cable signals by audience worldwide. Similarly, “supporters of American popular culture argue that the universal popularity of American media products promotes a global media system that allows communication to cross national boundaries” which in this present age the media has transformed into a
technological development. It is no longer news that most, if not all media organizations, have websites where their audience can get their messages. This trend is not restricted to only print media as broadcast companies have also keyed into it. Listeners, viewers and readers need not be in America (New York) to watch CNN or its broadcast. If a viewer fails to see a programme, he/she can always check their
“The social media have provided platforms where listeners, viewers and readers of radio, television and newspapers respectively, worldwide, can interact.”
technology. Gone were the days when people had to wait for hardcopies of magazines, newspapers etc, to access their messages/content. With the internet and just a click of the button now, the reader is “one on one” with an online version of any newspaper he/she wants to read. A reader need not be in Benin City to get access to THE N I G E R I A N OBSERVER. With an internet-enabled phone and computer, such person can conveniently do that. At a time, Marshal Mcluhan, came up with his “GLOBAL VILLAGE” theory which describes the
has reshaped media landscape. The most visible is the social media which media organizations have keyed into. The social media have provided platforms where listeners, viewers and readers of radio, television and n e w s p a p e r s respectively, worldwide, can interact. With their various Twitter handles, facebook pages and other social Media, the media have built a huge fanbase that is e n g e n d e r i n g interactivity, cum feedback. Furthermore, a globalized world made possible by, internet, a product of technology,
to a N
s a e to d a o c n
r t m a
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nd Globalisation
GOBIAMBU
has left indelible marks n media practice. Most of the major media outlets in the world, have correspondents, photographers, columnists and the likes, dotted across the globe who do their work
courtesy of technology. As a photojournalist stationed, for instance in war-torned Iraq, battle scenes can be captured and sent via email or other means via the internet to any media house globally. Aside that, videos are uploaded to your tube by
media outlets and later downloaded by audience while listeners/ viewers of global television or radio stations can call in live with the help of their phone from any part of the world. RECOMMENDATIONS Since the world
“THREE-BODIES have been recovered rom a three –storey building that ollapsed on another ix bedroom structure beside it on Lagos sland Wednesday night” “A four storey building under onstruction in Onitsha, Anambra, ollapsed after a downpour”. These were stories on National dailies bout the incessant ollapse of buildings n Nigeria. It is almost a norm o hear such news on regular basis across Nigeria. Collapsed tructures have lways been in xistence, dating back o 226 BC. Historical documents show that statue, the Colossus of Rhodes,in Rhades, ollapsed; although no life was lost.
However, when the Fidenae amphitheatre in the Roman Empire collapsed in 27 BC, about 20,000 persons were said to have died. The latest spate of collapsed buildings, has further put man against his inventions; supposed to provide shelter for him It has become disheartening to know that buildings/ structures meant to provide shelter are giving way/falling apart. “strangely, beyond the shock of grotesque bodies trapped beneath huge boulders and the boooooom!!! Of concete mass, a sore fact rears its head: prisons have not taken in more inmates in tandem with the dozens of buildings collapses across the
country and the hundreds of lives lost” According to experts, the rising tide in building collapse has led to financial loss to owers of building. Back in September, the media reported that an “uncompleted fivestorey building, valued at about N40 million … collapsed after a heavy rainfall” Similarly, many in the building/ constriction sector, have attributed the building collapse to the use of low quality building materials coupled with employment of incompetent artisan and weak supervision of workmen on site. As a source puts it, “the abysmal low quality of block being churned out by some block makers who either consciously or unconsciously endanger the lives of
Insight (media) cannot do without technology, there is need for media organizations to tap into its vast benefits to do so. For the lessdeveloped world to avert dominance by global media outlets, there is urgent need to work on the challenges of technological advancement. Similarly, the media
should use their global nature made possible by development’s in technology, to create a world where justice, good governance, rule of law, respect for human rights, are upheld. CONCLUSION It is glaring that media, technology and globlization, are three inseparable elements in
today’s world. For any media to make impact or succeed, technology, has to play a vital role. As Kaul ( 20011), said. “The world as a global village has come to stay. An institution that fails to meet the challenges of globalization shall remain irrelevant. There is no other lexis. This is the prize of globalization”.
Checkmating Incessant Building Collapse By EMMANUEL EGOBIAMBU
users of their blocks which from mere looking is better described as mere moulding of sand together with the use of a spoonful of cement to hold the sand together all in a bid at preventing the ‘blocks’ from collapse before getting to the unwary customer, who for economic reasons often make do with the cheapest products in the market without giving consideration and a second thought to the danger they cause. Furthermore, some have said that building collapse is due to non – compliance with specifications/ standards building materials and equipment and the employment of incompetent
“Tackling this trend of collapse buildings, requires the input of all stakeholders in the building sector. Government must muster the political will to regulate this area so as to stop the collapse.”
contractors (Canadian Centre of Science and Education). According to the President of the Nigerian Institute of Building, Mr. Chucks Omeife,. “If you look at building collapse today, nobody has been tried in a law court. Nobody has been sentenced to prison; nobody has been punished for any building collapse. And this is the reason buildings continue to fail because people are becoming more daring. They keep building without going through necessary processes”. Tackling this trend of collapse buildings, requires the input of all stakeholders in the building sector. Government must muster the political will to regulate this area so as to stop the collapse. That is why the statement credited to the Lagos state Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Wale Ahmed that the state government take on legal measures against culprits of building collapse,
must be commended. It is high-time some contractors, who have “Oga at the top” doing substandard work, are brought to book; face the music. Again, there should be adequate plans by government to provide low-cost houses to the masses. Most Nigerians lack shelter and have therefore resorted to making use of substandard materials just to put a roof on their head. This can be avoided if housing is made affordable for the masses. Besides, the media have a role to play in curbing this menace. As the fourth estate of the realm, opinion molder, and agents of socialization, they must lead the campaign on the dangers of building collapse and the need to adhere to standards while enacting structures. Building cannot just be left to collapse without measure to correct it as the time to act is now!
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Art Alive
With Francis Odupute
POETRY
Naija Once upon a fowl, Sitting on the fence… In fervent fidelity, In frantic fashion! Its fidgety feathers flapped and flickered Atop the windy rugged rope Rocking the rot That flattered its ricketty phlegm. That was Naija, scuffling for survival and direction Atop the livid ends of her democratic matrixA democracy dethroned by deceit and corruption? By Francis Umendu Odupute
A Poet’s Prayer God of mighty poets Please give me what mighty poets possess Those who although tattered and beduced by misfortune Shrouded and yielded by grief Were tamed and subdued By elements of literary appreciation. In the word of literary splendor May my poetic seepter be immortalized In the unforgettable hearts of men Who shao gratitude May my name never fade. Great is my Craving experience When I read about great poets And their poetic axploits To be like those great men To excel even more Soaring on poetic wings over Words with RHYMES and Tones Like DIRGES AND ALLEGGORIES Even in my most exajgerated speech May I by EUPHEMISM speaking In METAPHORIC SIMILE and resolinding ONOMATOPAIELY Let me in a bid to PERSONISICATE Never use SACASM or write SATIRICAILY Rather help me dear father Never to forget METONYMY and SYNEDOCHE
From left: Fraser Neil Johnston of Protea Hotel, Benin City, Prince (Engr) Yemisi Shyllon, Chief Joseph Arogundade, former commissioner of Finance, Edo State, and Mrs. Aduke Gomez, representing the Lagos State commissioner for Tourism and inter Governmental Relations, at the meeting last week.
Edo Future Tourism Content:
Security Is Central To Tourism Development -Stakeholders
No one will ever go to any place where his or her life would be in danger. Security of lives and property is a central factor in any plan to improving tourism in any society or community. This was the one major point emphasized by a majority of tourism stakeholders last Friday, October 4, 2013, during the Tourism Stakeholders Meeting which held in Benin City at the instance of the Edo state Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, to address FUTURE TOURISM CONTENT for Edo State. Arts Editor, FRANCIS UMENDU ODUPUTE, reports: An expatriate, Mr. Fraser Neil are some aspects of security Johnston, the General Manager which tourism practitioners have of Protea Hotel in Benin City, been neglecting, maybe because was the first to commend the of one reason or the other. First Nigeria Police and other security and foremost we should also outfits in Edo State, for their address our minds that tourism relentless efforts to curtail and tourist centers have been criminality and insecurity across targets of attacks by terrorists. the State. In his very brief remark We could recall what happened during the meeting, the Protea in Nairobi, Kenya, recently when Hotel GM, on behalf of hotels/ a lot of people were attacked and hospitality practitioners in the most of the victims that were State urged the security agencies involved were tourists…Also, I to continue protecting and want to use this opportunity to guarding the people by ensuring advice the hoteliers and improved security in the State in recreational centers managers to the good interest of the human ensure that they always come up and material resources replete in with valuable information that Edo State. will enable security agencies like According to a lady who the police and the SSS and other preferred anonymity, “…there security agencies including
paramilitary, to equally try as much as possible to make our society a very safe one for tourists to come here, because I believe that if the best tourist attraction is here, without people coming to patronize it it’s not going to yield any revenue to the State and our people. Like in Bauchi, look at the Yakari Game Reserve, when I visited there, that was before this Boko Haram attacks, a lot of people were patronizing the center, but now I believe that because of this problem of Boko Haram, a lot of people will be very scared to go to Bauchi, particularly the Yankari Game Reserve. So, what I’m trying to say is that hoteliers and recreational facility managers and other stakeholders should try as much as possible to always provide useful information to security agencies that will lead to arresting criminals. I want to equally advise them that they should be so mindful of security, for we know that all these hoodlums,
My people I am not derise Because I am using APOSTROPHE in poetic senses Rather like zeno I use the PARADOX and avoid IRONY Doing everything in Conciousness of literary Principles and practices Like Soyinka like Itugo like the great Wordsworth And like Chaucer father Great father God of mighty poets This I beg of you That with this gift Those who put their trust in me Will never be disappointed. By Mary Young
A cross section of discussants at th Tourism stakeholders meeting last week. PHOTOS: Francis U. Odupute
after perpetuating their nefarious acts, they will always go to hotels just to cool off, and in the process of doing that we know the consequences. If you kind of notice any suspicious movements in your hotels, feel free to call on the security agencies, the police, SSS and the likes so that they will try as much as possible to ensure a free society for visitors to come in and for the revenue of the State to go up…” she lectured. The Edo State Commissioner of Police, ably represented by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Moses Eguavoen, had earlier in his speech thanked the Edo State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism for convening the stakeholders meeting, pointing out that “What we are discussing here is about tourism, its benefits and how to get it manifested…I want to let us know that while we are discussing on how to harness tourism here in Edo State, let us not overlook the security challenges that are inherent in it. It is only when we are aware of this we can properly manage, overcome, and or avoid it when the time comes. But the necessary measures need to put in place with a view to checking crime and criminality that affect the tourism industry in Edo State.” The Commissioner of police maintained that efforts at harnessing tourism in Edo State via policies, security and legal frameworks, etc would not work well unless government involved all security agencies like the police, the SSS, etc in all its tourism development plans, dialogues and strategies. “I want to believe that if the necessary framework is put in place to ensure maximum security across the State, at the end of the day we will have cause to rejoice” he concluded. (To be continued next week)
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Art & Culture
Understanding Evil Culture EVIL culture is having repulsive appearance that produces unhappiness, calamity, harm, wickedness, depravity, maliciousness, under the influence of unpropitious star The human history has been the narrative of dour combat with the powers of evil, finding self in the midst of battle field where every person has to struggle to do what is right, good and evil intermingle, and every person, and every group is interested only in its own affairs in the world of vanity and malice, where activity from being ordered to the service of God and humanity is distorted to instrument of evil. Evil denotes disorder, both physical and moral. Physical evil is a punishment for moral and a trial of virtue. It is a purification, an asceticism, a transcending of the material and a share in redemption achieved through suffering. There are several possible positions such as direct link to physical violence, dissipation, passion, irresponsibility and theory of divine punishment. An indirect link leads to human wickedness that contributes to social misconduct, symbolized by physical evil, and is a sign and question of fate. It is regarded as an undesirable interior state which people want to get rid of, even if the punishment is what makes them conscious of the guilt. Evil is an attack on divinely ordered world, and offends the society,
breaking relationships with the spiritual guardians of the people, simply the transgression of arbitrary and positive law. Evil differs from breaking a taboo. Breaking a taboo is foolishness not necessarily sinful but evil and shame are interchangeable that consciousness of evil often makes the person appears as the passive object of an external agency. Evil is caused by a harmful deity which is sent by other gods to cause trouble and leads people into danger, temptation to break law and order. The main deity is the Devil. An image of the deity-“Esu” in olden days and even nowadays in some building is usually kept in a niche at one side of the house or compound gate in order to ward off bad things away. There are legends about the causes of evil, the purpose of evil and relationship of evil. There was the legend that an accusing angel as a tempter and executioner, injustice and condemnation appealed to God to spare some of the demons so that Mastema might execute power on human beings. The Almighty God apparently thought it was good idea and permitted one out of ten demons to remain at large in the service of Mastema, the angel of hostility. It is claimed that Mastema helped the sorcerers when Moses and Aaron appeared before Pharaoh to perform their magical
tricks. Another worthless is the prince of darkness, supreme adversary and the angel of lawlessness —Beliar as the
demon with seven serpent heads, fourteen faces and twelve wings, taught men to fashion swords and shields while women learnt
weapons of war. Evil culture may not be associated with spirit possession where it is believed that a spirit is submerging someone’s
exemplar and epitome of evil. Then the angel of silence, of stillness, of vindication-Duma as having tens of thousands angels of destruction, with twelve thousands myriads of attendants charged with the punishment of evil doers and sinners, a thousand eyed angel of death armed with fiery rod or sword. The evil Azazel is said to be the chief of the order of human spirits, Satan standard bearer, seducer of mankind and
finery and art of beautifying the eyelids from the angel. The poison angel is the prince of demons and angel of death. Samuel has been regarded as good and evil, as one of the greatest and as one of the foulest spirits. Dogs howl at night when great Samuel, the angel of death bears his apts away through the town, “They flee forgotten as dream ebbs at the opening day”. Gadreel makes people familiar with the
personality, speaking and acting through the person or Glossolalia where the possessed person feels double and is not in control of what he/she is saying but a refraction of supreme being, unclean that denotes disorder, extreme dualism that separates evil from God and systems which emphasize witchcraft as source of evil. God tolerate evil as punishment for moral evil, trial of virtue but not the ends of justifying the means of theories of
Divine punishment and is a question of fate or destiny. In the prayer ‘lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil” we say that God give us grace not to yield to temptation, and free us
from all evils, seen and unseen. “Yield not to temptation for yielding is evil, shone evil companion, bad action disdain”. Evil, therefore, denotes disorder both physical and moral, having repulsive appearance that produces unhappiness, calamity, depravity stealing and maliciousness under the influence of unpropitious star of evil culture.
“God tolerate evil as punishment for moral evil, trial of virtue but not the ends of justifying the means of theories of Divine punishment and is a question of fate or destiny.”
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Education
Ensuring Societal Growth Via Educational Empowerment
EDUCATION is the bed rock of every developing nation, and any society or government that invest in education certainly is investing in the growth and development of such a nation. Any investment on education is seen as a wise investment that will certainly yield better fruit tomorrow. This may have informed the decision of One Voice Association, a Nongovernmental Organization (NGO), whose goal is to contribute meaningfully to the development of the society to donate over 5,000 books and pencils to pupils of 10 schools in Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Council in Edo state. The Palatial garden of the Enojie of Ekpoma His Royal Highness (HRH) A.E Abumere II BL was filled to capacity as guests from both far and near with pupils from the10 Primary Schools across the local government area converge at the palace to receive the free exercise books and pencils distributed by members of One Voice Association led by its Coordinator Hon. Francis Agbi. Guests and dignitaries including the Executive Chairman of Esan West Local Government Council of Edo State Rt. Hon. Saturday Ogbeide, Palace chiefs, teachers, Palace functionaries and other guests watch with excitement as the pupil entertained all present with cultural display in Esan dialet to signify the beginning of the wonderful occasion which will ever remain fresh in the minds of the recipients and the benefiting schools. Speaking at the occasion, the Chairman of Esan West Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. Saturday Ogbeide, commended the kind and
philanthropic gesture of the association for the writing materials presented to these schools to enhance teaching and learning in the locality. The Chairman represented by the Secretary of the Council Hon. Henry Irene said “I am highly impressed with what I have seen here today, the event is commendable. I praise the leadership of the Association and its entire members for this magnanimous step to reduce the burden of writing materials for the pupil”. “I feel excited and want to say the association has put down its name in gold in the sand of time. You may say that what you have done is small but in the sight of the beneficiaries of this gesture, it is a big thing you have done and will ever remain fresh in our minds. We are happy with this association and look forward to partnering with group like this because this is the focal point of our administration. We appreciate this NGO and others like this for complementing the effort of good governance, to ensure good, quality and affordable education for our people” he concluded. Adding his voice to the occasion, Secretary of Ekpoma Council of Chiefs Chief Williams I. Ebohon thanked the group for a great job done and for bringing smiles to the faces of pupil, the schools and the entire people of Esan West Local Government Council. “They have proved to us that they are really sons of this soil, we know this is just the beginning and want other schools to benefit from this great work. We pray that God will continue to bless the group and all its members”. He said. The Coordinator of the group Hon. Francis Agbi recalled how the association
By RICHARD OKORO EWEKA
started at the dinning where some of his friends who are graduates from Ambrose Alli University (AAU) came together and thought of how to contribute to the development of the society. We felt the best way to touch life’s is through
today because AAU is situated here and members are graduates from this institution, so we felt this is the appropriate place to begin this philanthropic journey”. The Vice Chairman of One Voice Association Anthony
otherwise, we felt the best way to start is to start from Ekpoma”. Hon. Samuel Inegbenosun Okoeguale who was also a guest and a friend of the association said the group is made up of good and intelligent personality, people who think of development, community
a pupil from Emaudo Primary School Ekpoma, Miss Eko Goodluck thanked the group for this philanthropic gesture and the donation to ease and enhance learning. “We want to thank the group for bringing us to the palace today to recieve this gift which will help us in our
Picture shows pupils of selected primary schools who benefited from free books and pencils.
education following the step of the Comrade governor Adams Aliu Oshiomhole who has transform the educational system in Edo state. “Education is the bed rock and foundation of Nigerian Child and the future of the country. Edo state Government is doing a great job to enhance and improve the system. The system still face some challenges among which is writing materials as such we decided to come in by providing these materials to make study easy and enjoyable. This is the beginning of greater project to come from the group. We will cover all the local governments in both Delta and Edo state. We are here
Ainabe said this gesture is informed by the determination of the group to give back to the society which they themselves have benefited from. He said the group focus is empowering people educationally, politically and ensuring a meaningful society that will be conducive for all especially the future leaders of this country to live in.” We think of starting this great work of given back to the society from here because most of us in the association started from here particularly AAU in Ekpoma. So when we thought of empowering people, making people more enlightened politically, educationally, socially and
building, peace and a better society. They looked back and now are given back to the society by proving writing materials for pupils of 10 schools, this is remarkable. This group of intelligent young men speaks with one voice and if only we emulate unity of this nature, the society and country will be a better place to live in. “If we begin to seat down and share one common Ideology which will actually champion development, bring good governance, democracy, educational sectors and the likes, l am sure the country will definitely be a better place to live in”. Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries of the free exercise books and pencils,
studies. We are really happy for these writing materials, we have enjoyed ourselves here today and are all leaving with the gifts. We say may God bless and prosper the association and all the members for this great work. We pray that they will continue so that other schools that has not benefited from this exercise will eventually benefits in future” she concluded. Schools that benefited from this exercise books and pencils include Ujoelen, Isibhenelo, Ikerogbe, Eguare, Emaudo, Ebhoakhuala, Emiala, Uwendova Igor Primary schools in all in Esan West Local Government Councils in Edo state.
THE NIGERIAN
21
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
View Point
DID you ever get a blister from a new pair of shoes? Maybe you play guitar and have calluses on your hands, or you’re a dancer and have corns on your toes. According to kidshealth.org, Blisters, calluses, and corns can be uncomfortable, but they’re also pretty common and easy to prevent. All three happen because of friction when two surfaces rub against each other. In the case of these skin problems, one of the surfaces is your tender skin. What is a blister? A blister is an area of raised skin with a watery liquid inside. Blisters form on hands and feet from rubbing and pressure, and form a lot faster than calluses. You can get blisters on your feet the same day you wear uncomfortable or poor-fitting shoes. You can get blisters on your hands if you forget to wear protective gloves when you’re. Doing things like using a hammer or riding a bike. Areas on your body that form blisters and continue to be rubbed everyday can go on to form calluses. What is a callus? A callus is an area of thick skin. Calluses form in places where there is a lot of repeated rubbing for a long period of time. The skin hardens from the pressure over time and eventually thickens. It get s a hard, tough, grayish or yellowish surface that may feel bumpy. Calluses can be a form of protection for the hands. Gymnasts who perform on uneven parallel bars and other apparatus often get calluses on their hands. Guitarists can get calluses on their fingertips from the guitar strings. Once formed, calluses may make it easier for the person to swing around the bars or play the guitar. But what about calluses on the feet? They can be painful because you’re stepping on them all the time. Foot calluses usually form on the ball of the foot (the roundish part on the bottom of your foot, just behind
Caring For Blisters, Calluses, And Corns By IKIKA CLARA
your big toe). Some calluses also form on the outside of the big or little toe or the heel. Tight shoes and high heels often cause calluses because they put a lot of pressure on your feet at points that aren’t used to all of that street. What is a corn? Like calluses, corns are also areas of hard, thick skin. They usually look like a soft yellow ring of skin around a hard, gray center. Corns often form on the tops of the toes or in between toes, and they can hurt. Like calluses, corns come from pressure or repeated rubbing of the toes. Corns usually develop after wearing shoes that are tight around the toe area. Preventing blisters, calluses, and corns The best way to deal with blisters, calluses, and corns is to avoid getting them altogether. So how do you do that? • To avoid getting blisters and calluses on your hands, wear the right kind of gloves or protective, gear; for instance, you might use work gloves during yard work or palm protectors called “grips” for gymnastics. • To keep your feet callus free, choose your shoes wisely; try to shop for shoes in the afternoon because that’s when your feet are their largest. They get a little swollen from you walking on them all day. Try on both shoes and walk around a little bit before buying them. Even if shoes look really cool, don’t get them if they don’t feel right. Often, a different size or width can make a big difference.
• Even if you love a pair of shoes, its’ best not to wear them all the time. Mix it up by wearing a variety of shoes. That way, your feet will get a break and won’t always be rubbed in the same places. Caring for blisters, calluses, and corns If you do get a blister, callus, or corn, you can usually take care of it at home. • Blister usually heal on their own. Keep a blister clean and dry and cover it with a bandage until it goes away. While it heals, try to avoid putting pressure on the area or rubbing it. • You can help a callus go away faster by soaking it in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, then rubbing it with a pumice stone. The stone has a rough surface and can be used to rub off dead skin. Go easy when you do this. Rubbing too much can make the skin raw and tender. You can also wear shoes pads inside your shoes to relieve pressure so foot calluses can heal. You can buy pumice stones and foots pads in many grocery stores and drugstores. • Corns take a little bit longer to go away. To help, you buy special dough it-shaped pads that let the corn fit right into the hole in the middle to relieve pain and pressure. Ask a murse, doctor, or a parent about trying pads that continue salicylic acid. This acid takes off the dead skin to help get rid of the corn, but people with some health conditions (like diabetes) will want to avoid using these. If a corn sticks around for a while and keeps hurting you may need to see a podiatrist (the tansy name for a foot doctor).
THE NIGERIAN
22
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Health
Addressing Problem Of Cancer
ACCORDING to Nation Institute of Health on cancer United State of America. Cancer is a term used for disease, in which abnormal cells divide without central and are able to invade other tissues, cancer cell can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph system. Cancer is not just one diseases but many. There are more than 100 different types of cancer. Most of them are named from the organ or type of cell in which they start from. Examples, cancer that begins in melanocyles of the skin is called “melanama” and so many others. Cancer types can be grouped into broader categories. The main categories includes: Carcinoma: cancer that begin in the skin or in the tissue that line or cover internal organs. There are a number of subtypes of carcinoma which includes a deno carcinema, based cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and transitional cell carcinoma. Sarcoma: this type begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or both. Leukemia: it starts in blood forming tissue such as the bone marrow and causes large number of abnormal blood cell to be produced and enter the blood. Lymphoma and mycloma: cancer that begin in the cell immune system. Central neruous system cancer: it begin in the tissue of the brain and spinal cord. Origin Of Cancer all cancer, begin in cell, the body’s basic unit of life. To understand this disease, its help to know what happens when normal cell became cancer cell. The body is made up of many tupe of cells. These cell are grow and are divided into a co trouble more cells, as they are needed, they die and are replaced with new cell. However, sometimes this orderly process goes wrong. The genetic material (DNA) of a cell can become damaged or changed, producing mutation that affect the normal cell growth and division. When this happen cell do not die when they should, and new cells form, when the body does not need them. The extra cell may form a mass of tissue called tumor. Not all tumors are cancerous; tumor can be benign or malignant. Benign Tumor: they are not cancerous, they can be removed, and in most cases, they don’t come back. Benign tumors do not spread to the other part of the body. Malignant Tumor: this tumor are cancerous. The cell is these tumor can invede nearby tissue and spread to other part of the body. The spread of cancer from one part to another is called Metastases. The World Health Organization (WHO), in a recent report, described cancer as Africa’s time bomb. The world body also said that 80 percent of death in the world are due to cancer. Developing countries including Nigeria are affected with this diseases, relating to an account for about 40 percent of all cancer in Africa. He also said that more people die yearly from this disease more than those caused by HIV, Malaria and Tuberculosis in the world. As the world marked, “the world cancer day” one February 4, indication by WHO that 84 million people may die of cancer in 2015. World Health Organization (WHO) and Interaction Agency for Research on cancer (IARC) stated the cause of cancer such include; 1. Being overweight or Obese
By WINIFRED OSASOBO
2. Unhealthy diet with low fruit and vegetable intake 3. Lack of physical activity 4. Alcohol use 5. Sexually transmitted HIV-Infection 6. Urban air pollution 7. Indoor smoke from household use of solid fuels. Also the central government Senior Expert for fats on pharmaceutics drug Dr. Budueig also said that they are four major causes of cancer and knowing this will greatly enhances a person’s chance of survival. ! Weak Immune System: caused by severe negative emotional shock (death in the family, divorce, family problem, financial setback etc) overworked that run down over an extended period of time, lack of rest, and improper nutrition that reinforce the immune system.
! Toxins: dangerous chemicals (in the work place, home or garden), microbes parasites and fungus, etc. ! Improper diet: consumption of refined sugar and oil such as in fizzy (soft) drink, chip (crisps), store bought pastries, deep fried food (French fries, donuts), prepare meals (hot dogs, sausages, bocon, ham fast food (junk), and additives. ! Oxygen deprivation: trans fat (margarine, refined vegetable oils) use in deep fried foods and processed food (mayonnoise) actually suffocate the cells when ingested, depriving the body of life giving oxygen.
“However, sometimes this orderly process goes wrong. The genetic material (DNA) of a cell can become damaged or changed, producing mutation that affect the normal cell growth and division. When this happen cell do not die when they should, and new cells form, when the body does not need them. The extra cell may form a mass of tissue called tumor.”
According to research the symptoms depends on where it located and how its spreads. Some can be felt or seen through the skin, stump on the breast or testicle can on indicator. Cervical cancer; there are menstrual blood irregularity bleeding after sex, and malodorous discharges prostate cancer patients experiences inadequate urine and feel rain and weakness at the lower limbs. There are usually other signs like general lost of weight, yellowish skin, constipation and diarrhea. This disease cannot be cure, it can only be prevented. Such as; 1. Limit high intake of red meet: fat increases, the risk of several type of cancer particularly when cancer was as a result of red meet. Red meet contains fat, then poultry and fish. 2. Exercise regularly: the America cancer society recommends exercise for 30 minutes at list five days in 9 week. 3. Know your personal and family medical history: if you know that a certain type of cancer runs in your family let your doctor know. Together you can determine a proper screening plan your true risk. 4. Know what you are expose to your working environment: if you are expose to fumes, dust, chemical etc in the work place, you have a legged right to know what you
are being expose to Gasoline, diesel, Exhaust, arsenil, beryllium, vinyl chloride, nickel chromites, coal product, mustard gas and chlosom ethyl other are all carcinogen and can be found in some work environments. Talk to your employer about this exposure it can lead to cancer. 5. Practice safe sex: a know cause for cervical cancer and risk factor for many other type of cancer; HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that is spread through sex, skin to skin contact. A vaccine, GARDASIL was approved in 2006, and it protect against your strains of PHV that are associated with some types. 6. Get screened for cancer regularly: screening tests can be useful not only in detecting cancer, but also help prevent it. Screening test like colonoscopy and pop smear can detect abnormal changes before they can turn to the diseases. Prostate cancer screening through digital rectal exams and PSA test can help detect it early. Mammogram and other imaging tools are also recommended to detect breast cancer in women. The number of prominent Nigeria who fell to cancer in recent years have indeed became alarming. The victims includes Olusola Saraki; Maryam Babangida, Gani Faweninmi, Yinka creig, Yusuf Jibo, Sunny Okosun, Clara Oshiomhole and many others.
THE NIGERIAN
23
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Reflection
Celebrating World Mental Health Day
IF you take a close and critical look at the Nigerian streets, the market places, under the bridges and even the entrance of big Churches you will agree with me that the number of mad people in our society is on the increase. Each time I see these people I kept asking myself, are they really part of the Nigerian citizens? Do they have any constitutional right at all? What are the governments doing about them? Are they in any way included in government budget? What about our Church leaders, do they even have any agenda for the mentally sick people? What of you my dear reader, what have you done to assist the mentally challenged people in our society? Every 10th day of October (10-10) is a day set aside to celebrate World Mental Day. What is this Holiday all about and how is it celebrated? World Mental Health Day is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy. It is a day to create awareness of the existence and plight of the mentally challenged people in our society; a day also set aside to reflect on the challenges facing the families and even the society as a result of mentally sick people. World Mental Day was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries. WFMH is an international membership organization founded in 1948 to advance, among all peoples and nations, the prevention of mental and emotional disorders, the proper treatment and care of those with such disorders, and the promotion of mental health. When a member of a family is sick, the entire family is sick. Directly or indirectly the family must be affected by the sickness of its member. This is true of any sensible nation. If the majority of the citizens of a nation are mentally sick then the nation itself is mentally sick. A nation cannot exist without its citizens. The citizens are the ones that actually make up the nation. A nation with healthy citizens is indeed a healthy nation; whereas a nation with sick citizens is a sick nation. Here in Nigeria like every other nation, we have so many mad people. You can find them along the streets, market places, inside the bush, in the commentaries and under the bridges. Few of them are being catered for in few of the psychiatric homes in our nation; whereas a good number of
them are taken to herbal home or witch doctors shrine for spiritual treatments. Some of these mad people are locked up in their homes after much care and treatments have failed. Most prisoners have developed mental illness due to the ugly and frustrating situation which they found themselves. What exactly are the causes of mental sickness? The following lists are some of the possible cause of mental sickness: Atheism Induced Depression (AID): Most people who do not believe in what other people believe, for instance, the belief in a Transcendental Being (God) which is common in every society. For instance, when an individual citizen singles himself out as an atheists or one who does not believe in God, then he is most likely going to end up becoming insane. People around him will definitely treat him like a mad man. Sin Induced Depression (SID): Sin can easily lead to mental sickness. The popular saying, “A clear conscience fears no accusation” says it all. A sinful mind is a sick mind. A sick mind is a mad mind. When the mind is sinful it is full of regrets and fear which can easily lead to depression and a depressed mind is indeed a sick mind. A typical example of a depressed mind is that of Cane in the bible when he murdered his brother Abel. After this evil act his mind became restless. He finally became a fugitive and a wanderer (Genesis 4:8-12). A fugitive, like Cane, is a mad person. Life Choices Anxiety (LCA): People who are deeply preoccupied with choice for their life partners are easily prone to mental sickness. In most African society it is considered a taboo for a young man or young woman to exist without a life partner. The anxiety to make the right and quickest choice for Life Partner can easily trigger someone off. Most young people who are mentally sick are as a result of Life Choices anxiety. Life Status Depression (LSD): One’s rank or position in life matters a lot. Most people believe that one’s status will determine the amount of respect and acceptance they will receive from the society. There are people who attach so much importance to their status in life. Whatever they do or say is controlled by their status. Any negative effect on such people’s status can easily lead to depression which is also a mental sickness.
With REV. FR. JOHN DAMIAN ADIZIE PHONE: 08076635886
Anger Induced Schizophrenia (AIS): Uncontrollable anger, as common as it is, can easily trigger mental sickness. It can lead to people getting very annoyed with the person in question. Holding in anger can be quite bad as well. Both holding in and letting out can have terrible consequences in the mind. The bible presents a balance and a more realistic approach to anger. St. Paul wrote in his letter to the Ephesians, “Do not let resentment lead you into sin; the sunset must not find you still angry. Do not give the devil his opportunity” (Eph 4:26-27). St. Paul did not rule out the possibility of resentment but according to him we should not allow resentment to lead us into sin. We should not allow our anger to linger on and on. Money Oriented Anxiety (MOA): the excess love of money can easily lead to mental sickness. St. Paul wrote in his first letter to Timothy, “The love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs” (I Timothy 6:10). Do you know that a lot of people are having sleepless nights because of money? This unnecessary craving for money has pierced so many people’s hearts. When the heart is pierced certainly the mind is affected as well. Simply put, a mad person is someone with a sick mind or pierced heart. The problem of Barrenness affects the mind: The African society sees barrenness as a curse that must be averted at all cost. As a result barren couples are restless moving from one herbal home to another, from one hospital to another and from one spiritual church to another looking for solution to their problem. When this solution is not forth coming frustration and depression set in. if this depression is not handled properly it can easily result to mental deficiency. Alcohol and Hard drugs affects the Mind: Of all the causes of mental sickness alcohol and hard drugs plays greater role in rendering people mentally pale. The writer of the book of proverbs raises the following questions concerning alcohol, “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes, those who tarry long over wine? Wine bites like a serpent, and stings like scorpion (Proverbs 23:29-32). Failure and Negative thinking: Not everyone can cope with failure and setback. Some people do not just have the will power to cope with failure. Unexpected failure can easily trigger depression. Worst still are negative thinkers. They are those who always see the negative side of things. Negative thinkers are pessimistic people. Instead of seeing a light at the end of the tunnel they will see complete darkness. Negative thinkers are always afraid of failure. They usually expect the worst to happen. They are always stressed and they worry about everything; they are fault finders. They are very much prone to mental sickness. Demonic possession affects the mind: Of all the mentally sick people that come to our Adoration Mental Rehabilitation Centre at Maryland Egoro Amede Ekpoma, eighty per cent of them are those who are possessed. A good number of them often complain of hearing strange voices whereas some of them see what other people could not see. At times you find them talking with strange and invisible people. One was even told to kill her mother that she was the cause of her problem. The demon told her that the moment she kills her mother things will work out for her. She attempted killing her mother on several occasions until someone directed her to the Adoration Mental Rehabilitation centre. As soon as she was delivered from those strange voices the first person she hugged was her mother. She knelt and started crying when she was told how she insulted her mother before her deliverance. There may be other causes of mental sickness. I listed these common ones for you to guild against anything that may possibly trigger depression, frustration or anxiety which may eventually lead to madness. Anybody can become mad at any time. It takes constant stress, anxiety, and depression. Prevention is better than cure. As we celebrate World Mental health Day, I want to appeal to the government, nongovernmental agencies and good spirited citizens to take into consideration the wellbeing of mentally challenged people in our society. As you do so, God will richly bless you in Jesus name – Amen!
THE NIGERIAN
24
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
International
A year after electoral defeat, seven months after an ambitious blueprint to modernize, expand, and win back the White House, the Republican brand is still damaged goods. Republicans are getting the brunt of the blame for a government shutdown that reinforces the negative image laced through the 2012 exit polling of a party that’s extreme and out of touch. Immigration reform, viewed as pivotal to keeping pace with an increasingly diverse electorate, is stalled in the Republican-controlled House. As the shutdown persists and the debt ceiling crisis looms, the divide is widening between a conservative grassroots that relishes the showdown over Obama care and a political establishment that believes the standoff is hindering its goal of becoming the governing party. In its latest party-building effort, the RNC hosted a Hispanic Heritage month reception Tuesday amid plans to dispatch field operatives to seven states with growing Hispanic populations. But against the backdrop of thousands of protestors on the National Mall demanding congressional Republicans take up immigration reform, it was the latest example of the national party making progress on mechanics, not messaging. “It’s like one step forward, two steps back,” said Florida-based Republican consultant Sally Bradshaw, one of the co-chairs of the RNC review of the 2012 election. “The RNC is committed to the issues we raised, but I feel personally frustrated because I still see some members of our party who just don’t get it.” More from NJ: Republicans Are Awfully Close to Violating the Constitution There are early signs of fallout in the 2013-2014 election cycle. Though Republican gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli spent the last 10 days trying to distance himself from the shutdown, two polls released Tuesday showed him falling behind Democrat Terry McAuliffe
Republican Rebranding? in the Virginia governor’s race. “He’s the first casualty,” whispers one prominent national party leader. Democrats running for statewide office in 2014, from likely Florida gubernatorial contender Charlie Crist to Georgia Senate candidate Michelle Nunn, are positioning themselves to capitalize on the shutdown with bipartisan appeals in mainstream media. Three of Nunn’s Republican rivals, Reps. Paul Broun, Phil Gingrey and Jack Kingston, are Republican House members who voted to fund the government only if the health care law was delayed. So did some of the GOP’s other promising Senate candidates, including Reps. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, Tom Cotton of Arkansas, and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. It’s “Bill Cassidy’s Government Shutdown,” declared the Louisiana Democratic Party in an e-mail blast on Tuesday assigning exclusive blame. The Democratic National Committee and Organizing for Action, the advocacy arm of President Obama’s campaign, are using the shutdown to hammer Republicans in television spots, on-line ads, automated calls, and social media. “Tell the tea party, enough already!” says the OFA ad. More from NJ: Why Is Paul Ryan So Quiet on Shutdown? A string of Republicanweary polls is laying the groundwork for the media blitz. The latest United Technologies/National Journal Congressional Connection Poll finds two out of three Americans disagree with the Republican strategy of tying the health care law to funding the federal government. A recent CNN poll reported 69 percent of Americans think congressional Republicans are “acting like spoiled children.” Republicans in
Congress hit new lows in a recent Quinnipiac University survey that looked at approval rating and a generic match-up against a Democratic candidate.
Policy at Christopher Newport University, which found McAuliffe leading Cuccinelli by nine points in a new poll. More than one out of 10 Republicans who cite the state’s business
Violence Against Women Act and approved aid to Hurricane Sandy victims only after overcoming fierce resistance from Republican conservatives. Slashing food stamp
President Barack Obama of US
The Democratic Party and President Obama also are losing ground, but survey after survey shows Republicans getting the lion’s share of the blame. Even Cuccinelli, who as the state attorney general crusaded to repeal the health care law, has found himself doing damage control over the shutdown. He’s called for members of Congress to decline paychecks and for furloughed workers to get paid. He also aired a radio spot declaring he “opposes a government shutdown” and made sure he was not photographed at a recent event with Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, whose 21-hour speech on the Senate floor precipitated the budget impasse. It isn’t helping, said Quentin Kidd, director of the Wason Center for Public
climate is their biggest concern say they won’t vote for Cuccinelli. “I think the shutdown does hurt Cuccinelli because it’s consistent with a larger narrative that McAuliffe has encouraged, which is that he wants to force his views on people,” Kidd said. “Even though Cruz didn’t stand on stage with Cuccinelli, the coverage linked Cuccinelli’s campaign to what’s going on in Washington in a way that confirms some people’s suspicions about him.” More from NJ: Republican Senator on GOP Shutdown Strategy: ‘Wow. Is That the Best You Can Do?’ The shutdown is also casting Congress’s few accomplishments this year into sharp relief. Lawmakers renewed the
“Three of Nunn’s Republican rivals, Reps. Paul Broun, Phil Gingrey and Jack Kingston, are Republican House members who voted to fund the government only if the health care law was delayed. So did some of the GOP’s other promising Senate candidates, including Reps. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, Tom Cotton of Arkansas, and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. It’s “Bill Cassidy’s Government Shutdown,” declared the Louisiana Democratic Party in an e-mail blast on Tuesday assigning exclusive blame.”
funding by $40 billion and outlawing abortion after 20 weeks were among the only other major bills that cleared the Republican-led House. As millions of uninsured Americans start signing up under the new health care law, the shutdown looks like a lost cause that’s done little to promote Republican priorities of cutting federal spending, reforming entitlement programs, and reducing the national debt. “It’s imperative for Republicans in Washington to talk more about what we’re for,” said Ed Gillespie, a former chairman of the Republican National Committee. “Giving voice to anger and frustration helps energize our core voters, but it doesn’t energize voters in the middle who are going to respond more to hope and optimism than to talk of defunding, repealing and blocking things.” Gillespie now leads the Republican State Leadership Committee, which aims to recruit hundreds of minority and female candidates by 2014. On Tuesday, the RSLC announced that one of the most prominent Hispanic Republicans in the country,
former Puerto Rico Gov. Luis Fortuno, was joining its board. Fortuno, who headlined the RNC’s Hispanic Heritage reception on Tuesday, said the party’s outreach to the fastestgrowing slice of the electorate will fall short without immigration reform passing Congress. According to a recent online survey by the Public Religion Research Institute, less than three in ten Hispanics say they feel closer to the Republican Party than they did in the past. “If someone feels we don’t want them here, the thrust of our principles will not get through and it will be very difficult to get a Republican president elected,” Fortuno said. Meanwhile, the official party apparatus is doing what it can to make good on some of the promises made in the 97-page “Growth and Opportunity Project” released in March. Building a ground game is underway in Virginia and New Jersey, which will hold gubernatorial elections next month. The RNC hired a former Facebook engineer as its chief technology officer and opened a Silicon Valley office. The party is also hiring a small army to make inroads in the African-American, Hispanic, and AsianAmerican communities, while Chairman Reince Priebus has made a spree of appearances before minority audiences and media outlets. Priebus has also vowed to move up the nominating convention and limit the number of primary debates so the party can invest more time and resources into the 2016 general election. “At the mechanical level there has been a lot of progress and all of that is terribly important, but as far as messaging it’s fair to say alarm bells are ringing,” said former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer, another co-chair of the RNC report. “You can’t reach conclusions about next November while we’re in the middle of this fight, but our overall image has still not recovered.”
THE NIGERIAN
25
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
International Features Mandela Grandson Investigated For Gun Law Violation
JOHANNESBURG One of Nelson Mandela’s grandsons is being investigated on suspicion of pointing a gun at another man during an argument, South African police said on Wednesday. The grandson, Mandla Mandela, has not been arrested, police said in a statement, without releasing further details. Freddy Pilusa, a spokesman for Mandla, was quoted as telling financial daily Business Day that the incident never happened and the accusation was “pure fabrication”. Anti-apartheid leader and former president Nelson Mandela, 95, spent nearly three months in hospital this year for a lung infection that left him in critical condition. He has been receiving care at
his Johannesburg home since early September. Mandla Mandela, 39, hit the headlines this year when a judge ordered him to return the remains of three of Nelson Mandela’s
ago. Mandla had been sued by
family, it was within his rights to bury the remains on his property. In all, Mandela fathered six children from his three marriages.
Bulgarian Government Faces Second No-Confidence Vote SOFIA - Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski reacts during an interview with Reuters in his office in Sofia … SOFIA (Reuters) - Bulgaria’s opposition GERB party called on Thursday for a second vote of noconfidence in the Socialist-led government in just eight days, in a move that underscores the political crisis gripping the European Union’s poorest country. Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski’s government, which has faced daily street protests almost since it took power in May, survived its first noconfidence vote on October 2. That was filed by the center-right GERB over government investment policy. GERB’s new motion targets both the government’s investment and regional development policies, arguing
Charles Taylor To Serve Jail Term In Britain
AMSTERDAM Charles Taylor, the former Liberian president sentenced to 50 years in prison for crimes against humanity by an international tribunal, will serve his jail term in Britain, the British government said yesterday Last month, the Special Court for Sierra Leone, based in The Hague, upheld his conviction for using the proceeds of ‘blood diamonds’ mined in the conflict zone to finance rebels who raped, murdered and mutilated their way across Liberia’s northern neighbor during its 11year civil war. Britain was one of four countries that offered to enforce his sentence. The court’s president overruled Taylor ’s request to serve his time in Finland, Sweden or Rwanda instead. “The conviction of Charles Taylor is a landmark moment for international justice,” said British justice
children - including those of his father - from a memorial centre dedicated to his grandfather where he had moved them two years
more than a dozen of Mandela’s relatives who wanted the remains returned. Mandla said as the local head of the
minister Jeremy Wright in a statement to parliament. “It clearly demonstrates that those who commit atrocities will be held to account and that no matter their position they will not enjoy impunity,” he said. Taylor is the first head of state to be sent to prison by an international court since Nazi leaders were sentenced at Nuremberg after World War II.
that they will increase unemployment and hamper EU aid programs in a country where one in five lives below the poverty line. This motion too is unlikely to succeed. The coalition of Socialists and the ethnic Turkish MRF party is one seat short of a majority in the 240-strong chamber but enjoys the unofficial support of the nationalist Attack party which has 23 deputies. Parliament will discuss the motion next week but no date has yet been set for the vote. GERB’s move maintains pressure on a government political analysts say is unlikely to serve its full four-year mandate. The political instability, compounded by endemic corruption and red tape, will further hinder the direct foreign investment Bulgaria needs to revive an economy that is expected to grow by only 0.6 percent this year, down from 0.8 percent in 2012. GERB has said it will push ahead with a series of noconfidence motions and the blocking of parliamentary business in an attempt to force the government to resign. Opinion polls show Bulgarians divided over the performance of the government. The street protests have mostly involved younger, well-educated, urban Bulgarians angry over graft and keen to see the country adopt European standards of governance. The previous GERB government was forced to step down in February after massive protests over high utility bills. GERB won most votes in the May election but could not find another party to form a coalition, paving the way for the secondplaced Socialists to form a government.
Mandla Mandela, grandson of former South African President Nelson Mandela, sings during a church service.
Crackdown On Rumours, China Arrests Journalist
BEIJING - A Chinese investigative journalist who has accused officials of corruption has been arrested, his lawyer said yesterday, becoming the latest in a series of government critics to be swept up in Beijing’s crackdown on rumours. Liu Hu, a reporter with the Guangzhou-based newspaper New Express, was arrested on a charge of defamation on September 30, said his lawyer, Zhou Ze. Liu had been detained in late August in the southwestern metropolis of Chongqing on suspicion of “fabricating and spreading rumors”. China’s crackdown on online “rumor-mongering”, widely seen as a tool to halt criticism of the ruling Communist Party, has
chilled political discourse, with high-profile bloggers saying they have reined in sensitive postings for fear of detention. Lawyers and activists called the crackdown a significant, if crude, expansion of powers to police the Internet and a blow to those who rely on microblogs to disseminate information that is often not monitored as strictly as traditional media. On July 29, Liu accused Ma Zhengqi, deputy director of the State Administration for Industry and Commerce, of dereliction of duty during his time as party secretary of a local district in Chongqing. Liu had posted these allegations on his microblog. The administration said it had been informed of the accusation but made no further comment, according to the Beijing Times
newspaper. Zhou called the charge against his client a “speech crime” and said the government could be retaliating against Liu because he detailed specific allegations against a wide range of officials, including many senior ones, across many provinces. Liu’s information came from his reporting and through his network, Zhou said, adding that Liu had no reason to suspect the veracity of the content. “It’s impossible that passing on this information constitutes the deliberate spread of false information or the intentional fabrication and transmission of information,” Zhou said. “Therefore it doesn’t constitute defamation.” Liu’s microblog account has been deleted.
AN- annual hot air balloon festival in Albuquerque, N.M. ended abruptly for two participants Wednesday when their gondola hit a power line, caught fire and subsequently crashed down more than 40 feet, leaving both passengers with severe burns, local police said. The two passengers, identified as crew chief Daniel Lovato, 66, and pilot Mark Kilgore, 59, were participating in the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension festival early Wednesday morning, Rio Rancho, N.M., police said. The initial investigation suggested Kilgore was attempting to land the balloon when the basket hit power lines and caught on fire, resulting in the fall, authorities said. When a passenger reached out
to free the gondola, he was shocked, Balloon Fiesta spokesman Tom Garrity told ABC affiliate KOAT in Albuquerque. Both men were conscious when authorities arrived on scene, police said. Lovato and Kilgore were both taken to the University of New Mexico Hospital, police told ABCNews.com. Lovato, who sustained the majority of the burn injuries to his face, chest and arms, was taken into surgery. “When our personnel arrived on the scene, we were told by them that this individual’s burns were pretty bad,” Rio Rancho Public Relations Officer Janet Garcia told ABCNews.com. “We know that when the gondola hit the power line and was on the ground, it was chaos after that.”
Hot Air Balloon Crashes Into Power Lines, 2 Men Severely Burnt
FORMER- Liberian President Charles Taylor appears in court at the Special Court for Sierra Leone in Leidschendam.
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International Gunmen Frees Libya’s Prime Minister
• John Kerry, US Secretary of State
TRIPOLI - Former rebel gunmen freed Libya’s prime minister yesterday after holding him for several hours in reprisal for the capture by U.S. forces at the weekend of a Libyan al Qaeda suspect in Tripoli, officials said. “The prime minister has been released,” a government official confirmed. A security source also said Zeidan was free. A Reuters journalist outside the Interior Ministry building where the prime minister was held by militiamen linked to the government said people demanding his release had opened fire at one point. Zeidan was seized at dawn from a luxury hotel where he lives under tight security and was held for about six hours. Two years after a revolution ended Muammar Gaddafi’s 42-
year rule, Libya is in turmoil, with its vulnerable central government and nascent armed forces struggling to contain rival tribal militias and Islamist militants who control parts of the country. The militia, which had been hired by the government to provide security in Tripoli, said it “arrested” Zeidan after U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said Libya had a role in the weekend capture in the city of Abu Anas al-Liby. “His arrest comes after ... (Kerry) said the Libyan government was aware of the operation,” a spokesman for the group, known as the Operations Room of Libya’s Revolutionaries, told Reuters. Geoff Porter of North Africa
security and stability in the region, and as an advocate of the rule of law, peaceful solution of disputes, and freedom of navigation, and the principle of unimpeded lawful commerce”, the senior official said. Nevertheless, Washington will be hamstrung at the summit because of Obama’s absence. “I’m sure the Chinese don’t
mind that I’m not there right now,” the U.S. president said at a news conference in Washington on Tuesday. “There are areas where we have differences and they can present their point of view and not get as much push back as if I were there.” As Li and Kerry met for talks on the sidelines of the summit some tensions were evident. “I’m sure that we are all committed to living with each other in harmony and discussing
democracy as set by the roadmap,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Badr Abdelatty told a private Egyptian radio station Radio FM. Abdelatty later said in a statement the decision “posed serious questions around the United States’ readiness to provide stable strategic support for Egypt’s security programs”. The decision was made pending progress on democracy and human rights but the State Department said it would continue military support for counter terrorism, counterproliferation and security in the Sinai Peninsula, which borders U.S. ally Israel. It will also continue to provide funding in areas such as education, health and private sector development. The private, anti-Islamist leaning Tahrir newspaper was even bolder in its criticism, with a headline proclaiming, “Let the American aid go to hell”. The army ousted Mursi in July, installed an interim government and presented a political “roadmap” it promised would lead to fair elections. The Brotherhood refuses to work with the military, which it says staged a coup and sabotaged Egypt’s democratic gains after a revolt toppled
autocratic President Hosni Mubarak in 2011. Egypt’s security forces have cracked down hard on the Brotherhood since Mursi’s overthrow, crushing two proMursi protest camps, killing hundreds, and then arresting scores from the group, including much of the senior leadership. Mursi himself has been held in a secret location since his ouster. He is due to face trial on November 4 on charges of inciting violence, in a move that is likely to further inflame tensions between the army and the Brotherhood. The army-backed government also declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew. A court order has banned the Brotherhood, Egypt’s oldest and most influential Islamist group, that dominated national elections since Mubarak’s overthrow. The U.S. decision demonstrated its unhappiness with Egypt’s path since Mursi was ousted. In the latest violence, proMursi supporters clashed with security forces and political opponents on Sunday, with state media reporting 57 people dead. Raising the specter of more bloodshed, the political wing of
US, Japan Press China On South China Sea Dispute
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN - U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry will press China and Southeast Asian nations to discuss the South China Sea dispute at an Asian summit, a senior U.S. official said, despite Beijing’s reluctance to address the issue in public forums. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is also attending, said late on Wednesday the South China Sea dispute was a matter of concern to the entire region. In pointed remarks, he said Tokyo would continue to cooperate with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in resolving the row. Kerry arrived in Brunei on Wednesday for the annual East Asia Summit (EAS) and talks with leaders of Southeast Asian nations and, separately, met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the sidelines of the summit. A U.S. official said Kerry would urge ASEAN member states to continue to work “for enhanced coherence and unity” to strengthen their position with China in negotiating a code of conduct for the South China Sea. Obama last week cancelled his scheduled trip to the summit because of the U.S. government shutdown, raising concern that Washington would lose some of its influence in countering China’s assertive claims over the South China Sea and in maintaining its strategic “rebalancing” toward Asia. “That rebalance is a commitment, it is there to stay and will continue into the future,” Kerry told ASEAN leaders in opening remarks shortly after arriving. He began his speech by apologizing that Obama was not able to attend but emphasized the U.S.
commitment to the region. “I assure you that these events in Washington are a moment in politics and not more than that,” Kerry said. “The partnership that we share with ASEAN remains a top priority for the Obama administration.” China has resisted discussing the territorial issue with the 10member ASEAN, preferring to settle disputes in the South China Sea through negotiations with individual claimants. It has also frowned at what it sees as U.S. meddling in a regional issue. China claims almost the entire oil- and gas-rich South China Sea, overlapping with claims from Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam. The last four are members of ASEAN. The row is one of the region’s biggest flashpoints amid China’s military build-up and the U.S. strategic “pivot” back to Asia signaled by the Obama administration in 2011. “The Chinese consistently indicate their view that ‘difficult issues’ that might fall outside the comfort zone of any member need not be discussed,” the U.S. official said. “That is not a view that is held by the U.S., or, I believe, many if not most of the EAS member states, but we will find out.” In a speech to ASEAN leaders reported by Kyodo news agency, Japan’s Abe came out squarely in favor of the Southeast Asian grouping. Japan has its own territorial dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea and Abe said there were “moves aimed at changing the status quo by force” in the South China Sea. Abe said the dispute had to be resolved in accordance with
international law and pledged Japan’s continuing cooperation with ASEAN as it was a “common problem” for both. The United States says it is neutral but has put pressure on China and other claimants to end the dispute through talks. Kerry would emphasize the role of the United States as “a longstanding champion of
Risk consulting said: “His kidnapping clearly indicates that his government is not cohesive, and that not only is his government not in control of the country, but that he is not in control of his government.” Before his release, an official in the Interior Ministry anticrime department told the state news agency that Zeidan, a former diplomat and exile opposition activist against Gaddafi, was being held there and was being treated well. The prime minister, who is in his early 60s and has held the post for the past year, was taken from the Corinthia Hotel, where many diplomats and top government officials live. It is regarded as one of the most secure places in Tripoli. The kidnapping, however brief, raised the stakes in the unruly OPEC nation, where the regional factions are also seeking control over its oil wealth, which provides Libya with the vast bulk of government revenues. After the Arab Spring revolts that ousted several autocratic leaders, Libya’s transition has been one of the messiest. It still has no constitution, Zeidan faces a possible vote of no confidence and its transitional assembly, the General National Congress, is paralyzed by divisions between the secular National Forces Alliance and the Muslim Brotherhood.
Egypt Criticizes US Decision To Halt Aid CAIRO - Egypt yesterday criticized the U.S. decision to halt some aid to the armybacked government following a crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood that has plunged the country into a violent political crisis. Washington faces a dilemma in dealing with a major regional ally that controls the strategic Suez Canal and borders Israel but whose army overthrew the first freely elected president, Mohamed Mursi, after mass protests against his rule. It said on Wednesday it would withhold deliveries of tanks, fighter aircraft, helicopters and missiles as well as $260 million in cash aid but left some other aid programs intact. The U.S. position highlights the dilemma and also exposes differences with key Gulf ally Saudi Arabia, which had welcomed Mursi’s removal and has lavished extensive financial support to the new government. It also raises the question of where Egypt, the second largest recipient of U.S. aid after Israel, could now turn for more military aid. “The decision was wrong. Egypt will not surrender to American pressure and is continuing its path towards
the now-banned Brotherhood, the Freedom and Justice Party, called for a “million-man march” today to head towards Tahrir, cradle of the demonstrations that overthrew Mubarak. Besides the political crisis that has decimated tourism and investment in the most populous Arab state, Egypt is witnessing a wave of Islamist militant attacks against security forces that has occasionally spilled over beyond the Sinai region. Yesterday, one police and three army conscripts were killed in a car bomb attack in the region, which is near Israel and the Gaza Strip, security sources said. Militants also claimed a failed assassination attack on the Egyptian interior minister last month. U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel called Egyptian army chief General Abdel Fattah alSisi to tell him about the decision, stressing the relationship’s importance but underscored that Egypt must move towards democracy. The military denies it carried out a coup, saying it responded to the will of the people. Abdelatty, the foreign ministry spokesman, said Egypt was “keen on continuing good relations with the United States”.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
EVERY FRIDAY WEEK 13, 2013 LAST SEASON RESULT Anderson Richwell 1.2. X. Forecast
WEEK 13, 2012 NO. OF DRAWS 12
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By SAM EHEBHA GSM: 08056626091
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11 38 B SEAMAN NAP 39 31 2 11 C 32 33 33 29 Pair 28 39 X X 39 FACE TO FACE U.K EDITION
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WEEK 13 DRAWS LIKELY AT
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Wenger Supports Jack ARSENAL manager Arsene Wilshere Wenger has backed Jack Wilshere over the midfielder’s assertion that only “English people” should play for England. The subject of players’ eligibility to represent a nation where they were not born has been a much-discussed topic following Manchester United manager David Moyes’ claim that the FA is looking into recruiting Belgium-born Adnan Januzaj — who has AlbanianKosovar parents — in the future through FIFA’s five-year residency rule. When asked at the general issue earlier this week, Wilshere said: “The only people who should play for England are English people. If you live in England for five years, it doesn’t make you English. “You shouldn’t play. It doesn’t mean you can play for a country. If I went to Spain and lived there for five years, I’m not going to play for Spain.” Wilshere’s comments stoked up the debate, and the 21-year-
• Arsene Wenger
old took the Twitter on Wednesday to clarify his position, saying: “I wish he was English!” Wenger has backed his player’s opinion on the matter, telling BBC Sport: “I agree with him. I always said also an Englishman should manage the England team.” However, Wilshere’s opinion was called into question by England cricketer Kevin Pietersen, who has an English mother but, like several of his international teammates, was born in South Africa. The pair then engaged in an exchange of views on the social network.
NANI has urged his teammates to show the real Manchester United after their troubled beginning to the campaign. United made their worst ever start to a Premier League season before coming from behind to beat bottom club Sunderland 2-1 on Saturday. But winger Nani believes it could prove a turning point and with four consecutive home matches, against Southampton, Real Sociedad, Stoke and
• Nani
Rooney Explains Why He Was Unhappy
WAYNE Rooney says he was unhappy under former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson because he was being played out of position. Rooney says he was fed up with being played in midfield, but insists that he is now happy and settled under new manager David Moyes, who is fielding him up front. Although Ferguson’s name was not mentioned as Rooney spoke of the frustrations he felt at being repeatedly selected out of position, it was clear the major difference at United this season is Moyes occupying the manager’s chair. “You can clearly see I’m playing and I’m happy in my football,” said Rooney. “David Moyes has come in, he’s playing me up front, and I’m enjoying
Gunners Tracking Villa Keeper ARSENE Wenger has been keeping a close eye on the inform Brad Guzan following Aston Villa’s shock opening day victory over the Gunners according to the American and British media. According to the official website of Major League Soccer, mlssoccer.com, Arsenal scouts have been sent to watch 29-year-old Guzan in action on at least two occasions since that game. Arsenal were linked with a host of goalkeepers over the last transfer window before eventually landing Italian Emiliano Viviano on loan as the transfer window drew to a close. Wojciech Szczesny’s early season form has relieved some of the pressure on the Gunners to find a replacement for the Pole but it seems that it has not deterred Wenger from keeping his options open. Guzan spent the early part of his time at Villa backing up fellow American Brad Friedel, and was linked with a move to West Ham or QPR, before
Nani Urges Man United Turnaround
winning the first-team spot ahead of Shay Given under Paul Lambert last season.
it. “I’ve had no problem playing out of position in the past, but I’m a forward and I felt I deserved the right to play in my position. “That wasn’t happening. Naturally I was a bit disappointed and maybe that affected some of the games I played because last season wasn’t my best. “Everyone at the club knew where I wanted to play. Maybe I will play in midfield when I’m a bit older if I have lost my legs a bit but I didn’t want to play there. “I’m not saying I am going to throw my arms up in the air and not do it if we were hanging on a bit in the last 10 minutes of a game and I got asked to drop back.
But there came a point where I had to be a bit selfish for my own career.” Rooney’s contractual situation - he has less than two years to run on his current deal - is also uncertain, and he stopped short of confirming he wants to stay
at Old Trafford beyond this season. “To be honest I’ve been settled all summer,” he said. “I know from the outside looking in it might not have seemed like that, but I have.
• Wayne Rooney
Fabio Considers Manchester United Exit
• Brad Guzan
AVB Delighted At Lennon Return AARON Lennon has resumed full training with Tottenham this week, much to the delight of manager Andre Villas-Boas. The England winger has been out of action since picking up a foot injury on the opening day of the season against Crystal Palace, but returned to full training during the international break.
And Lennon, 26, could return to the Tottenham team when they play Aston Villa at Villa Park on October 20 when the Premier League resumes - a prospect Villas-Boas is looking forward to. “I’m extremely happy [about his return from injury],” the Spurs boss told the club’s official website.
FABIO has given his clearest indication yet that he will leave Manchester United in search of regular football. The 23-year-old Brazilian defender has seen his twin brother Rafael make the right-back position his own at Old Trafford, but has fallen behind Patrice Evra and Alexander Buttner in the pecking order at left-back. And Fabio admits a potential return to Fluminense, the club he and his brother left to join Manchester United five years ago, could be on the cards. “I don’t know. I think the time has come and maybe in the next window or even next
season, I think I might leave. There are good possibilities.” “I’m looking for other clubs. There’s nothing certain, we’ll leave it for later. “I want to be happy. I want to play, I want to be close to my family. I may go back to Brazil, or maybe not, I’m checking with my manager to see what is the best for me. “The affection I have for Fluminense is very big, for sure. I played there for seven years, and certainly if I have to go back to Fluminense I’m going with great pride because I have a special affection for them.”
Norwich, to come next, he feels the victory on Wearside can be a springboard for David Moyes’ team. He told the Mirror: “If we can get to our maximum for the next games, we will show the real Manchester United then. It was a very good win for us [at Sunderland]. “We had a really good performance after being unlucky to lose a goal so early on. Phil Jones tried to block and it came off Vida [Nemanja Vidic] and just bounced for them. “But I think we played very well in the second half and there was good shape from everyone. We knew it was always difficult to come to Sunderland to play but we’ve had some very good results in this stadium as well. “We knew we had to play better than we did in the first half and we just had to find the right moments to come back.”
RVP Doubt With Toe Injury
ROBIN van Persie’s fears that he had sustained a broken toe have been allayed, but the Manchester United striker remains a doubt for Netherlands’ final World Cup qualifiers. Van Persie picked up the injury in last week’s Champions League trip to Shakhtar Donetsk — with teammate Marouane Fellaini also sustaining a wrist injury in the 1-1 draw. While Van Persie played through the pain for his club at the weekend, he may be sidelined as the Dutch face Hungary in Amsterdam on Friday and Turkey in Istanbul four days later. “I got an enormous stamp on my toe and I really thought it had been broken, but luckily a scan showed it was not,” Van Persie told a news conference. “I played on Sunday [in the 2-1 win at Sunderland] but the injury has not got better.” Van Persie is just two goals short of matching Patrick Kluivert’s record haul of 40 goals for the Dutch national side. Netherlands, beaten World Cup finalists three years ago, have already secured their place at next year’s finals in Brazil as Group D winners.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Bayern, Mineiro Lie In Wait In CWC Meanwhile, Mexican club
Besiktas Have Ban Upheld FOLLOWING the club’s unsuccessful appeal Slaven Bilic’s men will only be allowed to play in front of women and children for the next four homes games as men have been banned Besiktas will be forced to play four home fixtures without male spectators after their appeal to have the ban reduced was thrown out by the Arbitration Committee in Turkey. The games against Rizespor, Kardermir Karabukspor, Torku Konyaspor and Sivasspor will only be open to women and children as males will not be allowed to attend those matches following violent scenes towards the end of match against Galatasaray last month. The encounter produced a record attendance with 76,127 reportedly at the game but both sets of players were forced to flea to their respective dressing rooms as hundreds of supporters invaded the pitch towards the end. Galatasaray were leading 21 but were down to 10 men after Felipe Melo was sent off before play was suspended. Besiktas coach Slaven Bilic was handed a three-game touchline ban by the Turkish Football Federation following a series of remonstrations against the referee, while the club itself was forced to pay a +21,000 fine due to their fans’ behaviour coupled with inadequate security measures.
EUROPEAN champions Bayern Munich will face the champions of Asia or Africa in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup after the draw was announced on Wednesday. Bayern, along with Brazilian club Atletico Mineiro, head straight to the final-four of the completion, but have a long wait to find out their identity of their opponent. The winner of the Asian Champions League final between FC Seoul and Guangzhou Evergrande will face-off against CAF Champions League winners Coton Sport, Al-Ahly, Orlando Pirates or Espérance – in the quarter-finals to earn a showdown with the German juggernauts.
• Besiktas protest
Madrid Have Debt ‘Problem’ - Economist RENOWNED Spanish economist Jose Maria Gay de Liebana has backed claims that Florentino Perez is hiding the true size of Real Madrid’s debts, while saying its socios could lose control of the club should the situation not improve.
Perez regularly maintains that his commercial expertise has helped cut Madrid’s debts and that they currently stand at around 90 million euros. However, others — including concerned fan group ‘Asociacion por los Valores del Madridismo’ — maintain the real figure is over 500 million euros. Now Gay de Liebana, regarded by many as Spanish football’s foremost financial expert, has told AS that he shares these worries. “Madrid’s debt is, effectively, 541 million euros,” the Universidad de
Barcelona professor said. “That represents 64 percent of its total liabilities. It is a very high debt and there is a problem. The short-term debt, which is 338 million euros, is higher than its current or liquid assets, which are 239 million. So there is 100 million euro in negative working capital.” While some figures — such as Madrid’s record annual revenues of over 500 million euros — were impressive, Gay de Liebana said closer scrutiny of the accounts showed the club’s financial management was not as good
AC Milan To Fight San Siro Closure
AC Milan are to fight to the very end to ensure the San Siro remains open for their Serie A fixture against Udinese after strict league rules on racism received widespread condemnation. The Rossoneri have been ordered to close the entire stadium after chants of a territorially discriminatory nature were heard during their 32 defeat to Juventus on Sunday. Since it is the second time this season Milan’s fans have been found guilty of such discriminatory behaviour, the Lega Serie A’s disciplinary committee sanctioned a full stadium closure, in accordance with its reinforced regulations from the summer. Those very rules have been ridiculed by the entire footballing movement, including the Lega Serie A’s own president Maurizio Beretta, who admits that, by enforcing them, they “risk giving the keys to the stadiums to the minorities.” Indeed, AC Milan vice-
Monterrey will meet the winner of Moroccan club Raja Casablanca and New Zealand’s Auckland City in the other quarter-final. The winner of that match will move through to the semi-finals where they will meet Mineiro. Club World Cup draw Preliminary match (Match 1) Raja Casablanca (MAR) v. Auckland City (NZL) Quarter-finals Match 3: Winner of Match 1 vs. Monterrey (MEX) Match 2: Winner of AFC Champions League v. Winner of CAF Champions League Semi-finals: Winner of Match 2 vs. Bayern Munich (GER) Winner of Match 3 vs. Atlético Mineiro (BRA)
president Adriano Galliani explained how any small group of fans could willingly interfere at any venue with the intention of getting it closed down by expressing discriminatory chants, even if only meant ironically. On Wednesday, a group of Inter Milan fans appealed to counterparts all down the country to show their support for their own city rivals by ensuring a total closure of all stadiums by expressing discriminatory views in the next round of Serie A games. Their plea appears to have struck a chord with bitter rivals Juventus showing solidarity with several groups of their fans planning to make defamatory chants during their game at Fiorentina on Oct. 20. Genoa fans are also planning to behave in a way which will see the Stadio Luigi Ferraris closed down if the rules continue to be applied by the letter of the law. “I won’t say what I really think
because I’ve spoken with our solicitor and he’s told me I’ll be banned for life if I do so,” said Galliani, who is going to leave the job of escalating the issue to his legal team. “We’re going to take our appeal to every court possible,” he continued. “I hope that our stadium will be full for the Udinese game. I hope so.” UEFA have also been asked to intervene since it is part of their Respect campaign to clamp down on racism, even though its president Michel Platini defined it as “Italy’s problem” and urged them to solve it. “Violent, dangerous and racist fans, those who insult everybody, are in a minority,” Platini said while picking up an award in Cuccaro Monferrato, Italy, on Wednesday. “Racism is a social problem which regards politicians, who need to help normal fans come to the stadium. Territorial discrimination is Italy’s problem. It’s the FIGC (Italian FA) who decides, we just give the general disciplinary guidelines.
as that at some other top clubs. “It is true that Madrid has important cash on hand — 156 million at the end of the season,” he said. “But you cannot abuse negative working capital. If you look at Arsenal or Bayern, two reference points in financial management, their working capital is positive. Madrid has homework to do.” Perez’s plans for the club currently include a 400 million euro refurbishment of the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, which could be funded by further borrowing, or by selling the naming rights to a sponsor. “The plans for the stadium are fantastic, but 400 million during a time when nobody is able to invest — obviously they would need to finance it with bank debt. That seems a bit risky,” Gay de Liebana said. Should the debt increase still further, Madrid’s socios could lose control and the
• Jurgen Klopp
club be converted into a limited company, Gay de Liebana warned. “The fact is that Madrid is so far in debt, and has a big project for the stadium, so it could end up in a monumental situation, and have to convert itself into a limited company [Sociedad Anonima] and capital be injected in,” he said. “Then you would need a socio with the ability to bring that capital, or if not, the support of a benefactor.” Gay de Liebana said that a levelling off in commercial and matchday revenues in Madrid’s accounts due to the poor general economy in Spain was another concern, as was a potential rearrangement of La Liga’s current television revenue sharing agreement. “That would be a tremendous problem,” he said. “Madrid and Barcelona receive way more than anyone else, around 160 million euros. That cannot grow much more.” Given the money spent on
players by the club during Perez’s reign, Madrid should have won many more trophies, the Espanyol supporter maintained. “We are talking about 700 million invested [in players],” he said. “That is an enormous figure, which really obliges you to win everything. You cannot have a club that invests so much and then does not win the Champions League. You must win La Liga, and the Champions League, and then leave the Copa del Rey for Espanyol.”
Klopp Won’t Appeal UEFA Ban JURGEN Klopp has confirmed he won’t seek to overturn the touchline ban imposed upon him by Uefa. The Borussia Dortmund coach was facing a one-game suspension in relation to his sending off during his side’s Champions League defeat by Napoli last month, but a day after that fixture at the San Paolo, the punishment was doubled, meaning he will also have to watch his side’s meeting with Arsenal on 22 October from the stands. However, despite the increase in the length of his sentence, Klopp says he will not challenge the ruling. “I stand by my responsibility and I accept the decision with a heavy heart,” the 46-year-old trainer told reporters. “My main motivation is that I do not want to give the impression to trivialise my own misconduct or want to detract from it.”
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
Boxing:
Lennox Lewis In Talks Over $100m Klitschko Fight
LENNOX Lewis says he is in talks to come out of retirement to fight a Klitschko brother for $100 million. The 48-year-old Briton, who good fight at the moment after was the last undisputed having told the Telegraph that he would still be able to knock out heavyweight champion of the Tyson Fury. Fury then launched world, was offered $50m (£31.3m) by promoters to fight into a Twitter tirade over the again as he watched Wladimir claim, but Lewis appears ready Klitschko’s world title defence to back his words up in the ring, telling the Mail that he would Alexander Povetkin at the weekend. return to professional boxing – That figure was on his mind for the right money. “($100m) is my price tag and against the last time he considered a return to the ring, it is under discussion,” Lewis but he would now expect double said. that. “I have told them I can be “I said at the time that it will ready in six months and I am in provisional training. take $50million to get me out “I am already under 300lb of my pyjamas but now I have (around 50lb shy of his fighting to consider the value of my legacy of having retired as weight).” undisputed champion,” Lewis The 6’5” Lewis retired in 2004 was quoted as saying by the after a 16-year professional career that was preceded by five Mail. “That will cost them years as an amateur, which saw $100million.” him win Olympic gold at Seoul Lewis is certainly talking a in 1988.
Schweinsteiger Reveals Germany Pressure BASTIAN Schweinsteiger admits the pressure to succeed with Germany is spurring the side on ahead of the World Cup next year. Victory against Republic of Ireland on Friday will seal Joachim Low’s side’s place in Brazil 2014, with many earmarking the Nationalelf as one of the pre-tournament favourites to lift the prize next summer. Schweinsteiger, who is on the brink of reaching 100 caps for his side, is determined to end Germany’s 23-year wait for a title and believes his remarkable achievements with Bayern Munich will inspire him at international level. “The expectations towards the German national team are much higher now compared to my debut year of 2004,” he told a press conference. “But
that’s a good sign because it shows we’ve had some success lately. And it spurs you on, it is a challenge. “You really take a lot out of that [the treble for Bayern last season]. Now you know how you can reach such success.” Schweinsteiger is delighted to be back in the Germany setup having missed their previous outings due to injury, but has warned that Republic of Ireland will pose a stern test on Friday. “It feels perfect to be back. My body feels great, the injuries are behind me now,” said the midfielder. “It’s not going to be easy. The Irish fight tirelessly for their home country, you don’t often see it to that extent. Football-wise they might not be as strong as Argentina or Spain, but their heart is in the right place and they always give everything.”
Lewis quit the sport after retaining multiple world titles against Vitali Klitschko in June 2003, initially promising to fight on but later backtracking. His record stands at 42-2-1, and he is widely regarded as the last great heavyweight. The Klitschko brothers have since gone on to dominate the division, which has declined in popularity due to a relative lack of talent, and the emergence of Mixed Martial Arts. Of the two Klitschko brothers, Lewis said he would prefer to fight Wladimir, having already proved himself against Vitali. “I beat Vitali so I would like to fight the other brother but we’ll see how it works out. I want to bring back the Sweet Science to heavyweight boxing,” he said. Lewis was ringside for Wladimir ’s victory over Povetkin, who was knocked down four times, but having watched the fight at close quarters, he left rather underwhelmed. “In a way this fight confirmed my disappointment with the state of heavyweight boxing right now,” he said. “The best I could find to challenge Wladimir was a kid who is not fully developed either
made the quarter-finals with a win over Japan’s Kei Nishikori. songa was pushed hard by his 23-year-old opponent in a nip-and-tuck opening set that was decided in a tie-break, but hit his stride in the second set as he dropped not a single point on his own serve while tearing Nishikori to bits on his way to a 7-6(4) 6-0 victory. Serb Novak Djokovic, who was replaced by Rafa Nadal as world number one on Monday, plays Italian
for the knockout after putting him down four times but I think he missed having [the late] Manny Steward in his corner. Manny would have told him what he told me when I fought Vitali - to go in and finish him. “I suspect Wladimir had a
problem with his right hand because as the fight went on he didn’t use it that often. But having said that he showed great movement, was very light on his feet and was never in danger of losing.”
Nigeria’s Alex ‘Rudd’ Ekhorowa ready for November 9, 2013 bout in Benin.
Morocco, SA Set For First Friendly
THE match between Morocco and South Africa at Agadir Stadium tonight will be the first friendly international between the teams. However, the Atlas Lions and Bafana Bafana are no strangers
Del Patro Gifted Spot In Shanghai Quarter-Finals JUAN Martin del Potro was gifted a spot in the quarter-finals of the Shanghai Masters as German veteran Tommy Haas was forced to retire injured. The 35-year-old had beaten Daniel Brands and Sam Querrey to make the last-16, but his longstanding back problem flared up before the clash with the sixth-seeded Argentinian. Del Potro will face either Tomas Berdych or Nicolas Almagro in the quarter finals. Jo Wilfried Tsonga also
physically or in terms of experience. “People paid a lot of money in expectation of a great fight but Povetkin was not properly prepared for the most important fight of his career. “Wladimir should have gone
Fabio Fognini while Roger Federer meets Frenchman Gael Monfils in their third-round encounters also on Thursday. Spaniard Nadal meets Argentine Carlos Berlocq in the day’s late match. Shanghai Masters Men’s Singles Round 3 matches on Thursday 7-Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (France) beat 12-Kei Nishikori (Japan) 7-6(5) 60 6-Juan Martin Del Potro (Argentina) beat 11Tommy Haas (Germany)WO
to each other, having crossed swords in four competitive matches down the years. Fittingly, with the two nations representing the past and future Africa Cup of Nations hosts (SA hosted in 2013, Morocco will do the same for the next edition in 2015), all of their previous clashes were in the AFCON. The most recent was earlier this year, a thrilling Group A match in Durban in which South Africa twice fought back from a goal down to claim a 2-2 draw and advance into the quarterfinals. May Mahlangu and Siyabonga Sangweni scored the goals for Bafana Bafana, though
neither is available for the squad coach Gordon Igesund is taking to North Africa due to injury. Issam El Adoua and Abdelilah Hafidi scored for the North Africans. The teams first met in Burkina Faso in the 1998 AFCON. A quarterfinal clash in Ouagadougou saw South Africa claim a 21 win, with David Nyathi scoring the winning goal 11 minutes from time. Bafana went on to end as runners-up in the tournament after losing to Egypt in the final. Four years later the teams met in Group B clash at the 2002 AFCON in Mali. Bafana Bafana cruised to a 3-1 win in Segou thanks to
goals from Sibusiso Zuma, Thabo Mngomeni and Siyabonga Nomvethe. The very next AFCON, hosted in Tunisia in 2004, the teams once again faced off in the group phase. This time the match ended 1-1, with Patrick Mayo and Youssef Safri netting for SA and Morocco respectively. Bafana exited that tournament in the first round, while the Atlas Lions went all the way to the final where they were beaten 2-1 by the hosts. In all, South Africa and Morocco have clashed in four official matches: Bafana boast an unbeaten record (two wins, two draws) and have outscored their opponents eight goals to five.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
FIFA Launches Online Platform For Players Transfer
Preparation Begins For Benin Igue Marathon Race By KEHINDE OSAGIEDE
PREPARATIONS for this year’s edition of the Benin Igue Festival Marathon race began yesterday in Benin City as the Chief Organizer, Olu Amadasun briefed sports journalists on plans to organize a glamorous 2013 edition. The marathon race which is aimed at promoting the Benin culture, according to the former SWAN president, will hold on December 21, 2013. He said the 24km race will be open to all Edo youths with possession of certificate of fitness being the major requirement for registration for the exercise. According to Mr. Amadasun, over five thousand (5,000) marathoners are expected to take part in the 24km. race which will start at the UBTH and go through Benin-Lagos road and terminate at the Oba palace. The organizers however revealed that the Athletic Federation of Nigeria (AFN) will provide technical assistance while adequate security will also be in place to ensure a hitchfree exercise, even as they appealed to well-meaning Edo sons and daughters to come and sponsor the event.
Heartland Emeka Ogbugh
Heartland Risk Explusion From League - LMC
THE Nigeria league has warned Heartland risk being expelled from the competition if they stay away from two matches. The League weight of the sanctions Management Company stated in Article 4.2(3) and (LMC) said that should will go a step further to Heartland problems lead to enlist the support of the the abortion of two Nigeria Football consecutive league games, Federation to extend the the club will be expelled sanction to a prohibition of from the League in line teams from Imo State with Article 4.2(3). participating in any “We will apply the full
AFCON Hero Mba Vows To Shame Critics NIGERIA star of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations Sunday Mba has vowed to shut critics up once he gets another chance with the Eagles. Mba, 24, has not featured for Rangers after the Enugu team crashed out of the CAF Champions League in Angola earlier this year. And then a move in the summer to French second
Sunday Mba
national football competitions at all levels”, LMC official Salihu Abubakar warned. The LMC also advised the players to follow normal processes of declaring industrial dispute as stipulated in relevant sections of the League Regulations. They also called on the Heartland management to live up to their contractual obligations. “The LMC takes the issue of players welfare very serious and we are
appealing to relevant authorities concerned in the reported Heartland case to act appropriately as reports such as the strike by the players undermines the values we are building for the league,” said Abubakar. “Players who embark on strike contrary to the rules will be suspended from the League for two seasons. We will punish them in line with the rules, which is suspension from the league for two seasons and no club in the league or in any other league in the country will be permitted to hire them.”
LAGOS - The World football governing body, FIFA, has launched a premium service tagged the “Domestic Transfer Matching System (DTMS)”, aimed at facilitating domestic transfers of players. A statement by FIFA said the service would facilitate domestic transfers for member associations and clubs acting in the same jurisdiction. It said the DTMS was an online platform modelled on the International Transfer Matching System (ITMS), which is provided to over 200 member associations and 6,500 clubs for cross-border players’ transfer. “The DTMS is fully integrated with ITMS, with a single sign on so that both the member associations and its clubs can manage all of their domestic and international transfers in the same place. “It will help member associations to improve their transfers management, data management and governance by building on the existing ITMS service already in use by the member associations,” it said. According to the statement, FIFA developed the new system following feedback from numerous member associations and clubs, expressing the need for a domestic transfer system based on ITMS. It said the key benefits of DTMS were increased adherence to member associations’ transfer regulations with system-based processes and data-driven analysis. The statement added that the development would enhance speedy and efficient communication and approval via an online system, automated matching of transfer data and fast-track creation of counter instructions. It stressed that the innovation would validate official documents stored online and minimise physical document storage and search efforts.
division CA Bastia fell through. Critics have queried the rationale behind Mba’s invitation to the Super Eagles as he has been inactive for several months now. However, the Eagles midfielder told MTNFootball.com:”I don’t care about what people say because people will continue
to talk. “I will continue to do my best and my game on the pitch will be my evidence.” Mba was the star when Nigeria qualified for the first time for the Championship of African Nations (CHAN), but he was frozen out of the Eagles last World Cup qualifier in Calabar last month.
Maigari Pledges NFA’s Total Support ABUJA - The Nigeria out unscathed. For Eagles come Football Association (NFA) “Victory in Addis Ababa is
of putting on the green and white jersey in Addis Ababa would fire up the players to victory in Sunday’s first leg play-off 2014 World Cup qualifier. Ameobi, who made his competitive debut in September’s game against Malawi, confessed that it took him long to finally get the opportunity to play for his fatherland, and he considers it a rare privilege and would risk anything to ensure the Super Eagles emerge victorious against
the Walya Antelopes if he is fielded by coach Stephen Keshi. While reacting to President Goodluck Jonathan’s approval of funds to ferry 200 supporters of the team to Ethiopia, Ameobi said they will repay Nigerians’ faith by getting victory against Ethiopia. “We don’t need any extra motivation whatsoever to beat Ethiopia. Every player in this squad knows the importance of being at the World Cup and I
think that is the motivation we need to do our country proud,” Ameobi told reporters in Abuja on Wednesday. “Everybody has tipped us to win the game but we must remember that Ethiopia are not pushovers. They topped their group like we topped ours and they want to be at the World Cup like we want. But we would go there and give our best for our country to ensure that the result is favourable.”
said it would give the Super Eagles all the support needed to come out of Addis Ababa with a win on Sunday. NFA’s Chairman, Aminu Maigari, made this pledge
World Cup Ticket Enough Motivation NIGERIA striker Shola To Beat Ethiopia - Ameobi Ameobi has said that the pride
during a brief address to the players after Wednesday evening’s training session at the mainbowl of the Abuja National Stadium. Maigari who described the Oct. 13 encounter as ‘crucial and critical’ said the NFA has absolute confidence in the African champions’ abilities to overcome whatever odds the Ethiopians would mount. “Let me also say that the NFA, and indeed all Nigerians, appreciate your sense of patriotism, dedication and discipline. “You are always ready for national service, and always committed to giving your best. “On Sunday, we will require your very best to
crucial to our winning the ticket to the 2014 FIFA World Cup, in a year that our great country will be celebrating its centenary. “Be assured that every Nigerian is praying for you and expecting victory,” Maigari said. Reacting, the team’s standin skipper, Vincent Enyeama, told the NFA chairman the players were not scared by the prospects of facing several odds in Addis Ababa. “We are professionals ready to execute an assignment of high importance,’’ he said. Reports say that all 23 invited players invited for preparations towards the match trained at the Abuja National Stadium on Wednesday evening.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2013
The Real Transformation National Conference:
I met somebody who said, when President Goodluck Jonathan declares his stand not to contest in the 2015 Presidential Election; then the spate of Boko Haram insurgency will automatically come to a halt. Well, on a wider scale, I do not know how many people share this opinion. But as surprised as I am for a South-South Nigerian to assume it would take an act as simple as President Jonathan honouring a pact to steer clear of the 2015 Presidential Election before the majority of Nigerians can start experiencing relative peace again; then I would affirm this as the kind of argument which though records the efforts of some persons to proffer their opinions on a way out of our national malady; but which of course are myopic opinions that always fail to address the inner and deeper problems of Nigeria. If for example President Goodluck Jonathan buckles to the pressure of Boko Haram in their insistence of always satisfying the twofold condition of a Northerner and a Muslim as the only ‘authentic’ President of Nigeria, this would have only solved the problem half-way because it also means that the rest of the entire Nigerians must compulsorily comply. However, putting it this way as a necessary condition does not also solve the problem a whole hog. The necessary follow-up to this condition is the entire Nigerians accepting to be Muslims; not only by dressing and change of names, but by constitution, general way of life, and most importantly, be religiously committed to the prosecution of whole-scale havoc on the other parts of the world, which would not accept the practice of Islam as a compulsory condition. At this point, we must all understand where the world is heading with this kind of notion. This is the notion
which prescribes that any aspect of learning informing us to accommodate the will of others to live in the manner they prefer must be viewed as sinful or a haram. It is the notion which claims that as the West took no permission from God before colonising and enslaving the other citizens of the world; they too must forcefully colonise the world with Islam. And if America is viewed as a major country leading others to fight the spread of this notion, therefore, America’s interests and that of their allies must be forcefully purged out of the world’s reckoning. On all sides, I can bet that the singular incident which made President Goodluck Jonathan to decide on using the option of a National Conference to solve Nigeria’s problems is the recent massacring by suspected Islamic militants, of the Agricultural College students in Gujba, Northeastern Nigeria, while they were sleeping in their hostel. Importantly, no responsible leadership would remain unruffled when it understands that such mindless killings are essentially targeted to discredit it. And as for President Goodluck Jonathan ‘the chicken has finally come to roost’ It is time to eventually allow either Boko Haram or Nigerians decide the fate of Nigeria. Boko Haram’s militancy in Nigeria is poised with some twist. While in other parts of the world, such insurrections by a religious wing are openly canvassed with the determination to wrest political power democratically or otherwise, and the prosecutors of such cause or causes openly identified, just as in the case of the Moslem Brotherhood in Egypt, but in the case of Nigeria, all and sundry knows that the system has been so much run awry that it is a near impossibility to seek political mandate
through genuine electioneering processes. Ours is a country where we have been expecting to come by the right results, using the wrong methods. A country where a sitting President expects the state governors to assist in prosecuting his presidential electoral campaign in their various states without the President bothering to ascertain
community: Hence the youths can hold to ransom a contractor that has been mandated to build their social amenities, and the rulers would buy cars which will never be driven on the deplorable roads. And therefore, even members of the Boko Haram know the futility of approaching Nigerians with their cause, through the ballot box.
FEED BACK By KINGSLEY OGBEIDE-IHAMA field for it to test the popular acceptance of its campaign, through credible elections. But as the present political fore-runners went about the use of force in wresting political mandate off the control of Nigerians,
• President Goodluck Jonathan
whether such governors have done enough to be guaranteed the support of their people. All these are against the background that a particular political party has been anointed to rule forever. A system which encourages the idea that enhancing oneself is always better than enhancing one’s
After all, in some climes, some political parties do not hide their racist inclinations; which is even the strongest point in canvassing for membership. If such was the situation in Nigeria, perhaps Boko Haram would have been rest assured in the sincerity of Nigeria’s system to provide a level playing
carelessly too, they taught Nigerians how effective it is to use force in acquiring whatever is desired. While some Northern elites are beguiling the federal government to advance the gander the same prescription offered the goose - which represents the amnesty granted Niger Delta
militants in like manner for Boko Haram members, such elites also know the prospects of their becoming the true beneficiaries of Boko Haram’s cause, and are therefore lurking somewhere and waiting for the right time to latch on, when Nigerians would have become completely overwhelmed within the void of this apparent hopelessness. The diversionary antics of sometimes hurting innocent Moslems are necessary for the prosecution of this manner of blackmail against a system. As it stands today, there is no doubt that Boko Haram has succeeded in portraying President Goodluck Jonathan as a person, who does not possess the leadership capacity to provide a corporate-national security for Nigerians. But interestingly at the climax of the snowballing dingdung affairs, and just to reaffirm the effect of his controlling-shares in Nigeria’s affairs, President Goodluck Jonathan decision to convoke a national discuss, would no doubt address the inner and deeper issues about the country, and the mutual coexistence of its component entities. This to me is the real transformational programme that Nigerians have been clamouring for.
“Nigeria’s problems is the recent massacring by suspected Islamic militants, of the Agricultural College students in Gujba, North-eastern Nigeria, while they were sleeping in their hostel. Importantly, no responsible leadership would remain unruffled when it understands that such mindless killings are essentially targeted to discredit it. And as for President Goodluck Jonathan ‘the chicken has finally come to roost’ It is time to eventually allow either Boko Haram or Nigerians decide the fate of Nigeria.”
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