Nigerian observer 13 06 2014 by Nigerian Observer

The Nigerian

PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 ART AND CULTURE Page 19

Patriach of religious culture

• Vol . 39 NO.012• FRIDAY, JUNE 13, 2014 • N100.00

SMEs operators benefit from EDSG/BOI Loan Scheme

BENIN CITY- Edo State Government in collaboration with the Bank of Industry has presented cheques valued at millions of naira to operators of small and medium scale

enterprises across the State. Speaking at the ceremony, the State Commissioner for

Commerce and Industry, Barr. MacDonald Obasuke congratulated the beneficiaries of the

loan, adding that the gesture by the State Government and Bank of Industry was aimed at stepping up the economic activities in the State. Commissioner Obasuke said the Governor Adams Continues on page 2

Suspended Lawmakers

Edo Assembly displays fake Mace By KEN ABU

FEMINIQUE Page 20 Now, is it about Herdsmen!

BENIN CITY – The Edo State House of Assembly yesterday displayed a duplicate Mace used by the suspended lawmakers while attempting to hold their plenary at 6 a.m. on Tuesday June 11, 2014. The startling revelation of the Chairman, House a duplicate mace used by Committee on the suspended Information, Hon. Lawmakers to hold their Kabiru Adjoto at a press plenary session before it conference to intimate was disrupted by the Rt. members of the general Hon. Uyi Igbe-led House public on the recent following the intervention development at the of the Commissioner of State Assembly. Police, was unveiled by

The House Committee Chairman on Information said the duplicate mace was the missing

duplicate mace that was declared missing during the impeachment era of Rt. Hon. Garuba Zakawanu, which according to Hon. Kabiru

Adjoto has further compounded the act of misconduct of the s u s p e n d e d Lawmakers. While commending the role of the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies in managing the crisis engulfing the

state assembly invariably preventing thugs from hijacking the situation, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto reaffirmed the Leadership role of Rt. Hon. Uyi Igbe-led House in piloting the affairs of the State Assembly by presiding over plenary Continues on page 2

Recognise June 12 as Democracy Day, Group urges FG

By MARTIN ERHARUYI /FAITH ISIKHUEMEN BENIN CITY – The Coordinator-General and Founder of Project Charilove, Mr. Chris Omusi has stressed the

need for Nigerians to canonise and immortalise June 12 as “The People’s Democracy Day” as distinct from the May 29. Continues on page 2

National Chairmanship

Edo APC congratulates Oyegun

BENIN CITY- Edo State Executive Committee of All Progressives Congress (APC) hereby congratulates the First Executive Governor of Edo State, Chief John Odigie- Oyegun as he emerges the choice of the National caucus of the party for the office of the National Chairman. At a meeting presided over by its Chairman, Barrister Anslem Ojezua, the Party Executive acclaimed Chief Oyegun as a

reliable democrat, an indomitable freedom fighter and a seasoned administrator. The Executive

commended APC National caucus for its sagacity and meticulousness in the screening of candidates for the foremost leadership position of the party. Continues on page 2

ORIGINAL: The orginal sitting Mace of the Edo State House of Assembly being displayed by Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, Chairman, Edo State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Youth and Sports at a press briefing at the House Conference Hall yesterday. Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.

Youths protest against suspended Edo Lawmaker

ABUDU - Youths numbering over a thousand have staged a peaceful protest against Hon. Friday Ogieriakhi, the suspended lawmaker

TIT BIT “If the work you are currently doing does not make you and your client happy; it simply means that you are doing another person’s job”. - Kinglsey Ogbeide-Ihama

r e p r e s e n t i n g Orhionmwon South Local Government Area in the State House of Assembly, over what they termed the sale of their mandate without consultation. Hon. Friday Ogieriakhi is one of the four embattled lawmakers suspended by the State House of Assembly over what they termed “gross misconduct”. The youths who Continues on page 2

FAKE: The fake stolen Mace the suspended members of Edo State House of Assembly were about to use for their sitting at the House on Wednesday, being displayed by Hon. Adjoto Kabiru at a press briefing at the House Conference Hall yesterday. Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.

News

SMEs operators benefit from EDSG/BOI Loan Scheme

Continued from page 1

Oshiomhole led administration being people driven would do all within its available resources to better the lots of the citizenry. The Commerce and Industry Commissioner explained that the loan was a

revolving one and enjoined the beneficiaries to promptly payback, for others to benefit. He added that the exercise was equally a fulfillment of Governor Adams Oshiomhole campaign promises. Addressing the audience, the Zonal Manager, Bank of Industry

pointed out that other batches of beneficiaries of the EDSG/BOI Loan Scheme will soon emerge, stressing that those who have benefitted should put the money to judicious use. Other stakeholders at

Edo APC acknowledged the efforts of Chief Oyegun in promoting peace and unity in the party even at a time that the recently defected cabal of mercenaries attempted to instigate him against Comrade Governor Adams Oshiomhole. The State Executive equally commended Governor Adams

Oshiomhole for his objective role in the process that led to the Caucus choice of one of the two Edo indigenes who aspired to the National Chairmanship. Edo APC appeals to all delegates to the ongoing convention to endorse the choice of the national caucus.

Edo APC congratulates Oyegun

Continued from page 1

It appealed to the three other candidates dropped by the Caucus, namely, Chief Tom Ikimi equally from Edo State, Dr. Sam Sam Jaja from Rivers State and Chief Timipre Sylva, all of whom are eminently qualified for the exalted office, to co-operate with Chief Oyegun.

Youths protest against suspended Edo Continued from page 1 Lawmaker

staged the protest at Abudu, the Administrative Secretariat of the Local Government, said their confidence and support for Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Uyi Igbe remains unshaken. Spokesman of the protesters, Mr. Nosa Izekor said the lawmaker defected to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) without due consultation with them and he refused to relinquish their mandate given to him. According to Izekor, the

Orhionmwon South representative at the Edo State House of Assembly allegedly sold his mandate for fifty million naira in total disregard for the wishes of the electorate. Another youth, Edomwonyi Netete, said the present administration under the leadership of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has performed creditably in Orhionmwon council area and the state in general. Youth leader, Liberty Omoruyi contended that the state government has brought a new

lease of life to Orhionmwon in terms of education, the health sector, roads and the urbanization of Igbanke just as he condemned the activities of the said lawmaker representing Orhionmwon South Constituency. In his response, the Orhionmwon Council Boss, Hon. Roland Ibierutomwen promised to forward their grievances to the state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, as well as the Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu.

Senator Idris Kuta is dead By JOSES SEDE

ABUJA - The senate has announced the death of Senator Dahiru Awaisu Kuta describing him as a vibrant, focused and dedicated lawmaker. in a statement in Abuja, Senate Spokesman, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe said Senator Kuta who until his death represented Niger East in the Senate, died in the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in the early hours of yesterday. Meanwhile, Senate President David Mark has lamented that the cold hand of death has robbed the Senate and indeed the nation of a brilliant, vibrant and result - oriented Law maker who distinguished himself in all ramifications . According to Mark: “Senator Kuta was a fore front parliamentarian. His views and positions unarguably represented those of the ordinary Nigerian. Indeed he stood for the masses . That was why he enjoyed the sobriquet of ‘comrade Senators on the floor of the Red chamber. “His death has no doubt created a vacuum. We shall

. Mark, Ekweremadu mourn

miss his humour. We shall miss his frank, honest and patriotism . He was a rare gem. “Senator Kuta’s easy and calm disposition endears him to all. . He was a good mixer and every body saw in him a true friend. He was just a pleasant fellow. “My heart goes to his immediate family, the government and people of Niger State as well as the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over this painful loss.” Senator Mark was however consoled that late Senator Kuta left a positive, indelible mark on the sand of time. He prayed that the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest just as he prayed that God gives the government and people of Niger State especially the bereaved the fortitude to bear this painful loss. Also according to Senate Spokesman, Sen. Abaribe, late Sen. Kuta “was a Nigerian patriot per excellence. A development oriented lawmaker and one that believed and worked for unity of the country, a belief he amply demonstrated as chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal

Edo Assembly displays fake Mace

Continued from page 1

sessions with the suspended Lawmakers yesterday, laying to rest the issue of ‘factional Speaker’. Hon. Adjoto while fielding

questions from members of the press on issues relating to the suspension of Lawmakers, said it was subjudice to further comment on the case as it was already before a competent court of jurisdiction.

Character and Intergovernmental Affairs”. Late Sen. Kuta is scheduled to be buried according to Muslim rites. The senate he said condoles with the government and people of Niger State, in particular people of Niger East Senatorial District. “Senate prays for the repose of his soul and for God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss”, Sen. Abaribe continued. On his part, Deputy President Ike Ekweremadu expressed shock and grief over the death of the Senator representing Niger East Senatorial District, late Senator Dahiru Awaisu Kuta. Senator Ekweremadu who described the death as an “incalculable loss to the Senate and the nation”, noted that late Sen. Kuta was a dependable Senator who discharged his responsibilities most creditable and efficiently. “Distinguished Senator Kuta was a brother, friend and a paragon of integrity, principle, courage, and competence. He was a pan-Nigerian who loved his country from the depth of his heart and worked selflessly towards its development.

the event, which include a representative of the State coordinator of Small and Medium scale Enterprises development Agency of Nigeria SMEDAN, Engr. Nwankwo, and the Centre Manager of Technology Incubation Centre, Dr. Mrs. Momah advised those presented with the cheque to ensure the loan was put to the use for which it was designed. Responding, some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Edo State Government and the Bank of Industry for the loan and assured that they will ensure prompt re-payment as contained in the agreement. The cheque presentation was conducted by the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Barr. MacDonald Obasuke assisted by other notable personalities which include the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Ms. O. Idahosa (JP). Among dignitaries at the occasion was the Chairman Owan West Local Government, Barrister Godwin Aigbodion

Recognise June 12 as Democracy Day, Group urges FG

Continued from page 1

He gave the charge in Benin City on the occasion of the commemoration of this year’s June 12 (A Day That Produced the Overwhelmingly Acclaimed Freest and Fairest Election in the History of the Nation). According to Omusi, “May 29 can aptly be described as the day when our country’s military handed over the baton of their rule to civilian government”. Omusi however, commended the Nigerians who stood for what was right, by coming out in thousands to demonstrate and protest the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, many of whom lost their lives. He urged Nigerians to stop apportioning blames on the devil or colonial masters for the unfair political administration in the country saying that self examination is the way forward. Also speaking, former Edo State Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Osagie Obayuwana said that democracy is about seeing each other as one and equal, stressing that “what affects one should affect another”. According to Obayuwana, “the call of June 12 is to stand for what is right even if one stands alone”. Obayuwana also admonished Nigerians to learn a lesson from the ground-breaking events of June 12, 1993 by defending and upholding every opinion formulate. Speaking to newsmen, the Chairman of Civil Liberties Organisation, Barrister Paul Ojemen advised that the principle of democracy and equality should be adhered to, while stating that democracy should be devoid of ethnic religious or political inclination. He also said that June 12 is synonymous with social justice, saying that an injury to one, is an injury to all. Also member of the Governing Council, Project Charilove, Dr. Chris Ugolo urged Nigerians to embrace truth and stand for the truth, adding that “this is what is lacking in Nigeria, as truth has been buried”.

Jonathan condoles with Governor Aliyu over Kuta’s ABUJA - President death Goodluck Jonathan has commiserated with Governor Babangida Aliyu and the people of Niger over the death of Sen. Dahiru Kuta. In a statement issued by Dr Reuben Abati, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Jonathan also condoled with the Senate, the PDP and members of Kuta’s family. Until his death on Thursday, Kuta was the senator representing Niger East Senatorial District in the senate on the platform of the PDP. “On behalf of himself, his family, the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan extends sincere condolences to Governor Babangida Aliyu and the people of Niger on the death of Senator Dahiru Kuta earlier today .

“Jonathan also commiserates with the Senate President, Senator David Mark, and Senator Kuta’s other distinguished colleagues in the upper legislative chamber. “The president joins them in mourning Senator Kuta whose notable contributions to the legislative work of the senate will be greatly missed. “President Jonathan also believes that Kuta’s significant contributions to the development of party politics and democratic institutions of governance in his home state and country will stand to his eternal credit. “He also believes that Kuta will always be remembered as a very committed and forthright lawmaker who did his best in the service of his community and father land.”

NMA Issues 14 days ultimatum to FG

ABUJA - Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) yesterday issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet its demands or face an indefinite strike from July 1. The NMA President, Dr Kayode Obembe, made this known at a news conference in Abuja. Obembe gave newsmen an open letter addressed to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, for onward delivery to President Goodluck Jonathan. The letter was jointly signed by Obembe and the Secretary-General, Dr Adewumi Alayaki. In the letter, the NMA demanded for the appointment of four Deputy Chairmen, Medical Advisory Committee for Teaching Hospitals and three for Federal Medical Centres. He said the deputy chairmen would assist the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, whose statutory responsibilities were too heavy for an individual to handle. Obembe said the NMA was opposed to the appointment of directors in hospitals, saying that it distorts the chain of command, induces anarchy and expose patients to conflicting treatment. “The position of a Chief Medical Director must be occupied by a medical doctor as contained in the Act establishing the tertiary hospitals. “The title of consultant should be accorded medical doctors, who are specialist and not to be occupied by anybody who is a non-doctor consultant. “If this happens, it will lead to chaos and anarchy in the health sector,” he said. Obembe said the other

issues were relativity in the health sector, and skipping of Grade level 12 for medical and dental practitioners. The others included reintegration of its members back into the IPPIS platform, increase in duty and specialist allowances, among others. “Much as we are not against salary increase for any category of workers, either in health or elsewhere, the NMA demands for immediate adjustment of the doctors’ salary. “This will ensure the relativity as agreed. “Speedy passage of the National Health Bill, a budget for residency training programme, appointment of a Surgeon General of the Federation and security for doctors and universal health coverage, among others. “In the light of the foregoing, therefore, the NMA hereby gives the government 14 days to meet all her demands as stated above. “Anything contrary will see the NMA calling out its members for a resumption of the total and indefinite withdrawal of services suspended on Jan. 5. “The NMA is taking this painful route because our silence and gentle approach to these contending issues have been taken for granted,’’ he said. The NMA president appealed to Nigerians to intervene and appeal to government to meet the association’s demands to avoid the strike. Reports state that the copies of the letter were sent to 17 other stakeholders, including President of the Senate, David Mark. The others were Speaker, House of Representatives, Ministers of Health, Labour and Productivity, Finance and Head of Service of the Federation, among others.

Confab: Women Delegates Divided

ABUJA- Women delegates in the ongoing National Conference were divided over the decision by Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, Deputy Chairman to allow Dr. Valerie Azinge, the Conference Secretary, to preside over plenary. Azinge was presiding over the recommendations and amendments of the report of Committee on Agriculture when Akinyemi stepped out. When Akinyemi came back, he asked the conferees if they preferred the “soothing voice of a woman” to continue presiding and some delegates said “yes’’. However, a female delegate and former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Mrs Amuna Ali, objected and called the conference to order. Quoting Order 6 Rule 7 of the Procedure Rule, she argued that it was improper for Azinge to preside while the Chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi (rtd) and Akinyemi looked on. “I do recognise the fact that when the deputy chairman came in, he did asked whether the soft and soothing voice of the lady was preferred, and there was unanimous “yes”. “But that was outside our rules of proceedings. “In a situation where both the

chairman and the secretary are seated, it is abnormal for the secretary to preside over the meeting unless you want to change the rules. “Secondly, we are not here to hear the soothing voice of a woman; we are here to do serious business,” she said. However, some women delegates stoutly rose against Ali for challenging a fellow woman for doing what they described as “a good job of presiding over the conference”. The women whose ire was drawn included delegates from the Market Women group led by Mrs Felicia Sani and those at the forefront of gender activism at the conference led by Mrs Josephine Anenih. They argued that if the secretary of conference deserved to be challenged, it should not have come from the female folk. “For a woman to challenge a fellow woman who was presiding over the conference has given credence to claim that the worst enemy of the woman is her fellow woman,” Sani said. They contended that if Kutigi could be seated while Akinyemi presided, which was often the case, there was nothing wrong in Azinge presiding while both chairman and deputy were

AFUZE - The Executive Chairman of Owan East Local Government Council, Hon. (Barr) Jimoh Ijegbai has urged the Kukuruku Youths Renaissance Network to remain focused in its objectives of promoting peace, unity and progress among Afemai Youths. The Owan East Council Boss disclosed this when he played host to the association led by its Vice President, Comrade Ohiwerei Anthonia

Agbane in his office at the Council Secretariat, Afuze. He maintained that with the crop of youths and vibrancy been exhibited by them, he hoped the leadership of the association will take them to a great height. Ijegbai advised the Kukuruku Renaissance Youth Network to ensure they carried every Afemai youth along in order to sustain the objectives of the association. Earlier, the spokesman for the association and Director

seated. However, some were of the opinion that she was correct as she wanted conference to stick to its rules. They also argued that such objection by Ali should be seen as devoid of any form of sentiments. However, to avoid the issue from generating unnecessary controversy at the plenary, Akinyemi adjourned for lunch break. Meanwhile, conference was yet to conclude voting on the amended recommendations of the Committee on Agriculture, which was expected to have been adopted on Tuesday.

News

Governor Adams Oshiomhole presents a souvenir to His Excellency, Mr. Peter Carter, British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria during the latter’s visit to his office in Benin City, yesterday.

EDSG Committed To Completion Of Central Hospital Complex - Commissioner BENIN CITY- Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Aihanuwa Eregie has said the state Government is working assiduously to complete the Ultra Modern Hospital Complex at the

Central Hospital, Benin City. Dr. Eregie who made this statement in Benin City while declaring open a 2 Day Quarterly Review meeting of Edo/ AHNI (Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative) also stated that plans are at

Council Boss Charges Youth Organisation of Research and Planning, Mr. Muhammad Abdulazeez Sarkis said the association is made up of past Students Union Leaders from Afemai land. He said the objectives of the Kukuruku Youth Network is to promote peace, unity, progress, good governance and development in Afemai land. Mr. Sarkis explained that the mission of the association is to reform, reconscientize, revive and resuscitate the youths in Afemai in all

endeavours through purposeful programmes, Seminars symposia, workshops and training. Mr. Sarkis stated that the essence of the visit was to acquaint the council boss of the association activities and to notify him of their forthcoming programme tagged “Democracy Redefined” being put together by the Association on the 12th of June, 2014, at the Michael Imoudu College of physical Education, Afuze.

advanced stage to remedy the human resource shortage in the health sector of the state. She added that the Government of Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole is very much committed to ensuring that Edo people get the best healthcare services which is why it recently approved salary increase for medical and health workers in the state, despite the dwindling financial resources. Commending AHNI for partnering with Edo State Government to improve the healthcare delivery services to the people, Dr. Eregie said “we have enjoyed a cordial relationship working with AHNI team and let me use this opportunity to thank you for your efforts and achievement in assisting us to attain the goals of providing optimal healthcare service delivery for the good

people of Edo state. She however, enjoined participants which were drawn from tertiary institutions, state Government hospital, faith based hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres, across the Local Government Areas to take active part in the review meeting and come out with suggestions and work plan that will help to boost the healthcare delivery services of the state. Earlier, the state Project Manager, AHNI, Dr. Victoria Nor-Ugor explained that the objectives of the meeting includes to update stakeholders on achievements of the project in the state, identify gaps/ challenges affecting work plan implementation as well as to plan strategies for improving local ownership and sustainability of the project in the fiscal year 15.

Gwoza Gets New Emir

Cross section of Ministers during Tribute to former Minister of Information and Communications, Late Professor Dora Akunyili at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja recently.

MAIDUGURI - The King Makers in Gwoza Emirate Council of Borno, has announced Alhaji Muhammad Timta as the new Emir of Gwoza. Timta replaces his father, Shehu, killed by Boko Haram sect members on his way to Gombe two weeks ago. The new emir was chosen

after a meeting of the king makers in Gwoza. The coronation was low keyed due to security challenge and continuous attacks on Gwoza by the Boko Haram insurgents. However, the new emir promised to unite and strengthen the relationship between Christians and Muslims in the area.

News Group To Create Jobs For Youths

Part-Time Legislators

Lawmaker Faults Confab LAGOS Lagos lawmaker, who is also chairman House Committee on Public Accounts (State), Hon Bolaji Yusuf Ayinla, has picked holes in the recommendation by Confab delegates that legislators should be on part-time service in the house, He also praised the Delegates for doing good job. Hon. Ayinla made the complaint during an interaction with Lagos Assembly correspondents at the press centre. He inquired, “If they make legislators part-time, how would the House Committee work on their oversight functions?”. The lawmaker explained that it is not nice for legislators to do part-time job in order to perform their legislative duties properly. He also revealed that he lives with his constituents because he got their votes to come to the House of Assembly. Asked why street urchins are still extorting money from commercial bus drivers, Hon Ayinla said that there is poverty and the urchins are jobless. He disclosed that people suffer because they have nothing to eat. The lawmaker added that people come to Lagos with belief that Lagos is a goldmine. On the issue of democracy in the country, Hon Ayinla revealed that democracy is not practiced in Nigeria, explaining that in Nigeria they disqualify people for security reason. He maintained that genuine and proper democracy is when you have freedom of expression. On his future political plan, Hon Ayinla said that only God knows tomorrow. He however disclosed that in 2015, he would like to go for House of Representatives. He revealed that it is performance that matters, explaining that Governor Fashola and Adams Oshiomhole have plans for their people and that is why they do their job properly and get public support. Nevertheless, Hon. Ayinla, regarded as the “Dangote of the house” said he had awarded scholarships and impacted well on his constituency.

“Besides, our extension services driven by the Plateau Agriculture Development Programme also reach out to small farmers with needed information for better yields,“ Bako said. He therefore called on large scale farmers to take advantage of the services provided by ASTC to boost their production capacity.

ABUJA - The Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, Mr Michael Ojo, said on Wednesday creation of job opportunities and entrepreneurship for the youth was necessary in the water and sanitation and hygiene(WASH) sector. He told newsmen in Abuja that WaterAid would create such opportunities to enable the youth to be part of the economic prosperity of the country. According to him, young professionals are inadequate in the sector to replace the ageing ones in the effort to develop it and that more young men and women should be trained. “We have a crisis that is building up, that we do not have enough young professionals in the sector. “People are talking about up to 70 per cent of Nigerians being under the age of 30. “We have to think of how to ensure that this population is able to play the part in helping us deal with this issue of lack of access to water and sanitation and hygiene. “Their voices need to be heard; they also need to be empowered to hold people to account for what is going to affect their lives. “There are ways that young people talk to each other, which I think having them on board and being drivers of these would help. “Our sanitation access figure has declined. So, we need every idea and I know that young people are full of ideas and we want to tap into that.’’

ABUJA - The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has urged donor agencies to raise 3.5 billion dollars (about N570.50 billion) to support education in poor countries. The call is contained in a statement released by UNESCO yestersday in Abuja, ahead of a two-day conference on Global Partnership for Education’s Replenishment Pledging, beginning in Brussels, Belgium, on June 25. The statement was signed by Mrs Kate Redman, Communications and Advocacy Specialist of UNESCO’s Education for All Global Monitoring Report. According to the statement, the continuing drop in funds for education is cause for serious concern especially as so many girls and boys are still out of school. The statement said that increasing external support for education was an ethical and development imperative, as it would make huge difference in the quality and access to education in poor countries. “Education is a long-term investment, not an expense venture and we owe it to the children of the world, particularly the poorest and most marginalised.

“International donors and developing countries’ governments should step up and commit more funding to education,” it said. It noted that aid flowing into global education sector had fallen by 10 per cent, and expressed worry that donors were backing away from education as a development priority. “This worrying fall in aid is in the context of a 26 billion dollars annual finance gap for education,” it stated. According to the statement, unless the negative trend is reversed, it will be unlikely to meet the global education goals by 2030. The statement therefore urged governments to urgently improve their domestic financing, including better management of their tax systems, so as not to put their countries development in jeopardy. “As a sector, education is suffering a double disadvantage; not only is it receiving the smallest proportion of humanitarian appeals, but it is also receiving one of the smallest proportions of requests that it makes for funding. “In 2013 education received 40 per cent of the funds it called for from humanitarian aid,” it said.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State with a team of Foreign Defence advisers and attaches to Nigeria led by Navy Capt. Michael Afolabi of Defence Intelligence Agency who paid him a courtesy visit in Asaba recently.

Plateau To Export Rice By 2015

JOS - The Plateau Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Steve Bako said yesterday that the state was set to export rice by 2015. Bako told newsmen in Jos that the state had put necessary machinery to achieve the target. He said that Plateau had enough wetland for rice production, spread across its three senatorial zones. The commissioner cited Kanam, Mikang, Langtang North and Langtang South, Shendam and Quan Pan as some of the lowland areas. He said that Nigeria had no business importing rice to feed its people owing to the vast potentials it had in rice production. The commissioner said the country must put up the right structure to not only produce rice for domestic

consumption but also for export. He said that the state government would use its Agricultural Services Training Centres (ASTC) to drive the rice value chain. Bako also said the government would provide the infrastructure and the right atmosphere to drive the sector, which is 90 per cent private sector-driven. The commissioner said that the government had provided needed mechanised components to assist farmers meet the demands of mechanised agriculture for export. “The mechanised aspect is complete in Plateau, we have machinery for ploughing, ridging and weed control, and we can do all these in a

mechanised way. “In the area of rice production, we have combined harvesters and nine tractors in each of the three senatorial zones for hire by large scale farmers for a token, “ he said. The commissioner said that the ASTC, which was a partnership with the Israeli government, was equipped with the needed manpower and spare parts with which to service its machinery. According to him, the ASTC has 100 tractors for hire in each of the three senatorial zones and offers fertiliser to farmers at subsidised rate. “Mechanised farming is cheaper as we buy a bag of fertiliser for N5, 400 and sell to farmers at N4, 000.

Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Anambra Chapter, holding a peaceful demonstration over Insurgency, kidnapping and insecurity in Onitsha recently.

UNESCO Seeks $3.5bn To Aid Educ

Disability Bill: Group

News

Calls For Passage

UMUAHIA - The Ohaneze Disability Forum, a sociopolitical organisation for persons with disability in the South East, has called for the immediate passage of the disability bill in the zone. A three-page communiqué issued by the group at the end of its inaugural meeting in Umuahia on Tuesday said the bill would help to protect the rights of the persons with disability. The communiqué, jointly signed by the President and Secretary of the forum, Messrs Paul Ihekwoaba and Okey Kanu respectively, urged the governors of states in the zone to allot elective and appointive quota in their cabinet to them to enable them to contribute to the process of governance.

It also called on the various governments in the zone to create employment and empowerment schemes for them. The communiqué noted that the initiative would help to discourage them from engaging in street begging and social vices. It called on the state and local governments to put a comprehensive scholarship scheme in place for gthem. It said the measure would help to make education accessible to indigent persons with disability in the area.

SOKOTO - Governor. Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto state has called for partnership with the Indian government to establish Faculty of Health at the state owned university, to train manpower in the health sector. The governor made the call in Sokoto when Mr. G h a n a s h y l Ajjarnpurrangaiah, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, paid him a courtesy call. He said that if established,

the proposed faculty would train students in medicine and pharmacy to operate the various health institutions in the state. He said that his government had taken measures to establish a science university to train students in science subjects. Earlier the High Commissioner had informed the governor that India had completed arrangement to establish hospitals in Sokoto State to address the healthcare needs of the people. “We will continue to assist

L-R: Chief of Staff, Rivers State Government House, Mr Tony Okocha; Sen Magnus Abe; R i v e r s Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mrs Ibim Sementari and Member, House of Representatives, Mr Asita O Asita, during protest against directive of the NJC for Daisy Okocha to take over as Chief Judge of Rivers in Port Harcourt recently.

Removal Of Polytechnic Rector: Oko

AWKA -The youths of Oko community in Anambra have dissociated themselves from calls for the removal of Prof. Godwin Onu as the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. The youths, under the aegis of Oko Peoples’ Union (OPU), made their position known in a statement signed by the President of the union, Mr.

Education:

Youths Dissociate Selves Tochukwu Ezeokafor, and Secretary, Mr. Ebuka Okoli. Ezeokafor, who read the statement while briefing newsmen in Awka, said the crisis in the the community had nothing to do with the institution or its rector.

“It is disheartening to note that some few personalities are pursuing personal vendetta against the current rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko under the Oko Peoples’ Congress.

the government in its efforts to provide qualitative and effective healthcare services to the people by establishing hospitals in the state,” he said. He said that the Indian government had also completed arrangement to operate direct flight from Nigeria to reduce the air fares being paid by Nigerians seeking medical attention in India. In a related development, the Argentina Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gustavo Dzugala, also visited Gov.

Wammako. The envoy said he was in the state to inspect agricultural projects jointly being executed by the state government and his home government. He said that completion of the projects would enhance the socio-economic and political growth of the two nations. Responding Gov. Wamakko said the partnership in the area of agriculture was to make the state self reliant in food production.

Sokoto To Partner India

L-R: Deputy Speaker, Rivers House of Assembly, Mr Leyii Kwane; Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Mr Golden Chima and Deputy House leader, Mr Ewhor Robinson, during a public hearing on amendment on Rivers State High Court Law 2011 in Port Harcourt recently.

“This is not fair because the real problem in Oko community has nothing to do with the polytechnic or the rector; rather it is local politics of calumny by the town union,’’ Ezeokafor said. The chairman pointed out that the call for the removal of Onu was not an Oko agenda but the agenda of few individuals bent on using the good image of the town to achieve their selfish interest. The youths also used the medium to call on the clergy and prominent indigenes of community to wade into the matter and resolve the

impasse before it got out of hand. “We are calling on people like the former Vice President, Chief Alex Ekwueme, Chief Chido Nwankwo, Chief Handel Okoli and other prominent indigenes of the area to intervene and resolve the crisis. “The call for the sack or removal of Prof. Godwin Onu as Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko is not and will never be in our communal interest,” they said.

Community Projects

Ashaka Cement Spends N151m

GOMBE -Ashaka Cement Company, a subsidiary of Lafarge International has within years spent N151.3 million on projects in its host communities, its management said. The company’s Managing Director, Mr. Leornad Palka, told newsmen that the amount was spent between 2011 to 2013. Palka said the money was spent on the construction of classrooms, drilling of hand pumps, electrification of some villages and purchase of set of electricity generators for some district heads. He added that it also purchase ultrasound machines for the General

Hospital, Bajoga, among other projects. The managing director said the gesture was part of the company’s corporate social responsibility. According to him, the host communities had created conducive working atmosphere for the company, hence the need to perform its corporate social responsibility. “We must commend the host communities for giving us a conducive working atmosphere, “ he said. Palka also said that the company trained over 200 applicants from the host communities in various skills.

South West LASU Fees: LASG Announces Reduction

Royal Father Urges FG To Dialogue With Boko Haram By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM

AGBOR- A Traditional ruler in Ika Land, Chief Jre Imudia, the OnyeWonihan of Ika Land, Delta State, has appealed to Boko Haram sect for the release of the abducted Chibok school girls. Speaking in a chat with The NIGERIAN OBSERVER, chief Imudia described the abduction of female students of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State as embarrassing and sacrilegious even as he pleaded with their captors to listen to voices of reason and free the teenagers. Chief Imudia while imagining the harrowing experience of the students in the hands of their captors, the mental and psychological torture of their parents and guardians he restated the need for wise counsel to prevail on their captors to release them. He maintained that no rational being can justify the abduction of these children whose only offence is that they chose to go to school to better their lots. Chief Imudia appealed to Nigerians to pray strongly for the abducted Chibok girls to be released.

L-R: Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, a beneficiary of Sen. Tinubu’s empowerment programme, Mrs. Bola Badmus and Secretary to Lagos State Government, Dr. Oluranti Adebule, at the 11th Sen. Oluremi Tinubu Town Hall meeting in Lagos recently.

IKEJA - The Lagos State Government has announced the reduction of tuition fees of the Lagos State University (LASU) by between 34 per cent and 60 per cent. Mr Fatai Olukoga, Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Education, announced the reduction at a news conference in Ikeja. He said the reduction, which cut across the different faculties and courses, was recommended by an Ad hoc committee set up to review the hiked fees and approved by the State Executive Council. The Special Adviser said that the Governing Council of the University would issue details of what the reduction translated into and the fees payable by students in each department. He said: “Government has approved the reduction by

Guber Aspirant Unveils Political Agenda By ABIODUN AFOLABI OSOGBO - The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Osun State, Mr. Olusegun Akinwusi has released his programmes meant for implementation if elected as the governor on August 9, 2014 election. Akinwusi, a former Head of Service (HOS) in the state in an 8-page~testament tagged “My Pact of re-claiming, re-uniting and re-building Osun state” listed 12 issues his administration would embark upon if given the mandate in the forthcoming polls. Top on the agenda was the SDP governorship candidate’s plan to put in place an inclusive government where the Commissioner for Information would be nominated by the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with the Radio, Television and Theater Worker Union (RATAWU). Besides, he stated , the Commissioner for Health will be put forward by the state chapter of Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in conjunction with other health workers’ associations while the Association of Senior Civil Servants with Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) and Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees

(NULGE) executive committee in the state would nominate the Commissioner for Local Government. He added that “The Commissioner for Education shall be nominated by All Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Osun State chapter and the Commissioner for Establishment and Special Duties shall be nominated by the Association of Senior Civil Servants.” “The Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University shall be nominated by Academic and Non Academic Unions of University, the Polytechnic Rectors shall be nominated by the Academic and Non Academic staff of Polytechnics and the Provosts of Colleges of Education shall be nominated by the College of Education Academic Staff and Non Academic Unions”, he stated. The former Head of Service deposed that under his administration, consultants to the government shall be engaged from the array of retirees in the state. Akinwusi explained that his government is determined to provide immediate relief with an emergency economic plan . Said He : “SDP is aware that our economy will be strong when our people prosper. Poverty would be reduced drastically if all the monies allocated to this state are spent within same for the benefit

of all. “The capital flight that had bedeviled the state in last 23 years is a curse. That is why we believe that we need an emergency economic plan to jump-start the economy, help all stakeholders offset the effects of bad policies of the recent past and get our economy back on track”, he said. The SDP governorship flag bearer explained further that youth employment is a major task of his administration while noting that the gimmick of voluntarism, which is second slave labour “is not in our dictionary”. “Therefore, this quasi-

unemployment tagged “volunteer job” is not in our design. While it is an obvious fact that government cannot employ all job seekers, we shall consider a sizeable number for immediate appointment in all critical areas in our government.” He used the occasion to also assure the people by saying “ Our government will tackle head-on the issue of vocational training to develop available skills in our youths. Efforts would be made to encourage our youth to be employers of labour through acquisition of necessary tools and equipment towards same.”

between 34 per cent to 60 per cent. “In accordance with the law setting up the university, the government has forwarded its approval to the university‘s Governing Council for consideration and implementation. “Pursuant to its statutory mandate, the university Governing Council will issue details of what is now payable by students in each department and deal with all management matters of the university.“ Olukoga said the reduction of the fees would not preclude the giving of bursaries and scholarship to indigent students of the institution by the state government. The special adviser said that the research fund sponsored by the state government would also be maintained to foster a culture of research and innovation in the university. ‘’Also, government will continue its increased spending on infrastructure and physical development of the university to reposition it,`` he said. Olukoga said the government hoped the lecturers in the university would welcome the reduction of the fees and call off their strike. The special adviser also expressed the hope that the students of the university would immediately suspend all agitation and resume normal school activities.

Declare June 12 Unity Day

LAGOS - The Chairman of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Dr Frederick Fasehun, has urged the Federal Government to proclaim June 12 as “Unity Day.” He said in a statement in Lagos that the step should be taken to immortalise the late Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12 1993 presidential election. The election, adjudged by

- Fasola

many as the fairest and freest election in Nigeria, was annulled by then military administration headed by Gen Ibrahim Babangida. Fasehun, in the statement to mark the 21st anniversary of the annulled election, appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to also name another edifice in memory of Abiola. “This has become so necessary after students and alumni protested the President’s naming of the University of Lagos after the late politician,” he said.

The party leader said today’s politicians must continue to acknowledge that Abiola’s sacrifice and martyrdom paved the way for the democracy Nigeria currently enjoys. Fasehun said that other deceased heroes of democracy, including the late Chief Anthony Enahoro, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Dr Beko Ransome-Kuti and Mr Bagauda Kaltho, should also be immortalised. He said that some living heroes should also be recognised to ignite the spirit of patriotism and nationalism in the country.

Delta Community Laments Neglect By State Govt

By JOEL CHUKWUAHONIM An accident scene at the Sapele Road by Santana Market in Benin City recently. Photo: BRIGHT IMHANZETO

OZANOGOGO (DELTA) - Indigenes of Ozanogogo in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State have lamented the marginalization of the Community by the present administration in Delta State. They pointed out that most of the social amenities other neighboring communities in the state are enjoying are not coming to them. Some

of the social amenities lacking according to them are accessible roads, pipe born water, health centre, no councilor appointed to represent ward 3 in the local government among other needs. Speaking to newsmen, Elder Eric Ehiaghe Ozanogogo, lamented that the state government has abandoned them while stating that the community needed government intervention.

Lagos Woman Arraigned Over Attempted Kidnap LAGOS -A woman, Ranti Ramoni, 25, has appeared before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, charged with attempted kidnap of two children, aged five and three years. The accused, whose address was not provided, is facing a charge of attempted kidnap. The Prosecutor, DSP Etim Nkankuk, submitted that the woman attempted to kidnap the toddlers on May 30 at about 1.40p.m., on Ultimate Street, Bayekun, Ikorodu in Lagos State. he said that the accused left her parent’s house in Ebute Meta, Lagos, and went to Ikorodu without their knowledge. “The children were playing in their compound when the accused approached them and forcefully offered them oranges to lick. “The children refused the oranges and screamed, and an eye witness who saw what happened raised an alarm. “The accused was apprehended and tortured by a mob before some policemen rescued her,” Nkankuk said. He said that the offence contravened Section 21 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. However, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Chief Magistrate, Mrs A.A Demi-Ajayi, granted her bail in the sum of N100, 000 with a surety in like sum, and adjourned the case till July 16 for further hearing.

N4.1m Theft

L-R: Chairman, National Eletricity R e g u l a t o r y Commission, Dr Sam Amadi; President, Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar; Deputy President, Comrade Joe Ajiero, at the review of Basic Assumptions for SemiAnnual Review of Multiyear tariff order-2 in Abuja recently.

Expert Cautions On Oceans Activities

LAGOS -An expert in marine research has urged Nigerians to carry out studies before starting activities on oceans to find out the consequences so as to put in place mitigation measures. Dr Emmanuel Oyewo, Director of Research, Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. Oyewo said that activities on oceans could cause ocean surge and affect aquatic life, calling for adequate protection and sustenance of the vital asset of nature. “The problem usually arises when people interfere with nature, and there is no way we won’t interfere because of a lot of developmental activities which have to do with marine works.

Oldest Catholic Priest Laid To Rest

LAGOS -The oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, the late Monsignor Pedro Martins, was laid to rest in Lagos amidst tributes by clerics, friends, relatives. Martins, aged 103, was laid to rest at the Vaults and Gardens Cemetery, Ikoyi , Lagos, after a funeral mass at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos. The report state that the retired colonel died on May 17. He was born on November. 16 , 1910, and spent 70 years as a Catholic priest, having been ordained on August. 8, 1943, by the late Rt. Rev. P.F. Kelly, the then Vicar Apostolic of Asaba and Benin. Late Pedro Martins, an old student of King’s College, Lagos, was one of the first eleven indigenous priests. Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos was the chief celebrant at the mass. He was assisted by bishops and reverend fathers. In a sermon he preached, the archbishop advised Nigerians to emulate the courage and selfless service of the late Martins. “His life from birth to death combined courage, compassion, determination, generousity,

discipline and discharge of duties in the church and the nation,“ he said. The archbishop described the late cleric as a committed priest, an exemplary soldier, a good leader, an inspiration and a competent worker. He noted that Martins was the first ordained priest from Lagos State and the first Nigerian Roman Catholic Chaplain of the Nigerian Army. Anthony Cardinal Okogie, Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, said that the late Martins dedicated his long life to selfless service to mankind. “It is difficult to put into words his role to the church and the state; he was an embodiment of discipline, principle and morals; he built bridges across parallel lines,“ Okogie said. Archbishop Emeritus Felix Alaba Job of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan described the late cleric as the patriarch of Catholic priesthood in Nigeria. “Pedro Martins, the fearless soldier and scout, urged Nigerians to work for peace without counting the cost or looking for rewards,“ he said.

“The thing, therefore, is to really carry out studies so that before you start your activities, you will have a reasonable good idea of what the consequences will likely be, and put in place some mitigation measures. Most of such activities will demand an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) from the Ministry of Environment, “he said.

Oyewo advised fun seekers, especially swimmers, to take safety precautions because of ocean tides. The director also advised fishermen and other users to ensure that oceans would be free from litter to avoid endangering marine lives. He called for more awareness on the importance of safeguarding aquatic life and

coastal areas. Reports state that the United Nations set aside June 8 yearly as the World Ocean Day to create awareness on the importance of oceans and the need to protect them against pollution, too much fishing and climate change. It is also a day to celebrate the products of oceans such as sea foods and sea lanes for international trade. This year’s celebration had the theme: “Together we have the power to Protect the Ocean’’.

Bank Security Guard Docked

IKEJA -A 26-year-old security guard, John Oche, who allegedly broke into a bank and stole valuables worth N4.1 million, has appeared before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court. Oche, a security guard attached to the Mainstreet Bank, is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, burglary and theft. The Prosecutor, Insp. Nurudeen Thomas, told the court that the accused and others at large, committed the offences at about 11:00p.m., on May 12 at a branch of Mainstreet Bank situated at Second Gate, FESTAC Town, Lagos. Thomas said that the accused broke into the bank and stole a Plasma television set worth N110,000 and a Nissan Almera with registration number JJJ-440 BS valued at N4 million. He said that the property belonged to the bank. Thomas said that the offences contravened Sections 285, 307 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. The report state that the offences attract up to seven years imprisonment. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty. The Magistrate, Mrs Abimbola Oshodi-Makanju, granted the accused N300,000 bail with two sureties in like sum.

Compol Tasks Officers On Commitment LAGOS - The Commissioner of Police, Ports Operations, Apapa, Mr. Kayode Aderanti, has decorated six newly promoted officers and charged them to rededicate their commitment to the ideals of ports policing. The reports state that 22 police men and women were promoted; eight were transferred while six others were decorated in the command. Aderanti said the regular promotion of police officers under the current InspectorGeneral of Police (I-G), Abubakar Muhammed, made it

imperative for them to show more commitment to the job. “The good thing about this administration is that the I-G ensures that when you are due for promotion, you get it. “It is not a matter of ‘man know man’. But you have to put in a particular number of years of keen service. Any officer involved in any disciplinary matter will not be promoted,’’ he said. Aderanti said the promoted officers should not allow their new ranks to be taken away from them by involving in unwholesome practices.

He advised the officers to be loyal, dedicated, hard working and endeavour to serve the people. He also dissuaded them from conniving with “port rats” but endeavour to expose them through intelligent means. “I expect to see the six of you in the next few months distinguishing yourselves in such a manner that we can write for special promotion. “I don’t expect any of you to run foul of all our regulations and other extant laws to make us act better,’’ Aderanti said.

He urged the six people promoted from Constable to Corporal and from Corporal to Sergeant to live up to expectations because of the security challenges facing the country. He noted that they were bestowed with the new ranks because they met the requirement and because they would leave up to their responsibility. The commissioner told newsmen that only six ranks and file were decorated today because everybody could not leave their duty post at the same time.

Traders outside Wuse market following an alleged bomb scare in the vicinity of the market recently.

Across The Nation A d a m a w a Commissioner for Environment, Mrs Arziki Sawa (right), presenting a seedling to the wife of the State Governor, Hajia Zainab Nyako at the 2014 world environment day in Yola recently.

Immigration Arrests 7 Suspects

Human Trafficking: KATSINA -The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Katsina State Command, said it arrested seven people for alleged human trafficking and related offences. The NIS Comptroller, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbumuo, made this known when he briefed newsmen in Katsina. Ogbumuo said the

suspects were arrested by the NIS patrol team on Kongolam axis following a tip off, adding that the suspects were between the ages of 19 and 29. He explained that one of the suspects was in possession of forged

ECOWAS travel certificates, while the remaining persons had no travel document. The comptroller said the suspects were trying to cross the border through the irregular route to Agadez, Niger Republic, then to Libya and finally to Europe.

He reiterated NIS determination to rid the country from human trafficking and illegal immigrants in spite of the nature of Nigerian border. Ogbumuo said that suspects would be handed over to NAPTIP for further actions.

Palm Oil Seller Jailed For Cheating Supplier ZUBA (FCT) -An Upper Area Court in Zuba, FCT, has sentenced a palm oil seller, Sadiya Mohammed, to three months in prison for cheating her supplier of N177,500.

Mohammed who resides at Sabon Wuse, Niger, was arraigned on two counts of criminal breach of trust and cheating. The judge, Malam Aminu Sa’ad, sentenced Mohammed after he

Ilorin General Hospital To Commence Neurosurgery Soon -Commissioner ILORIN - The Kwara Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Issa Kayode, said that the newly inaugurated Ilorin General Hospital would commence neurosurgery before the end of the year. Kayode told newsmen in Ilorin that the hospital would also establish a dialysis unit for patients with kidney diseases. “A Neuro-Surgical and Spinal Unit will be established in conjunction with a team of neurosurgeons who are world acclaimed, ” he said. He also said the hospital would ensure synergy with Harmony Advanced Diagnostic Centre established by the state

government in Ilorin. The commissioner said the policy thrust of the administration was hinged on provision of quality, affordable and accessible healthcare services to the citizenry within 500 metres radius. Kayode said the hospital was a 500-bed facility designed to offer quality primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare service to Nigerians. “The hospital has in it a well equipped Accident and Emergency Unit alongside an Emergency Paediatrics Unit and a maternity with a dedicated theatre and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit among others,’’ he said.

pleaded guilty. Sa’ad however, gave the convict an option of N15,000 fine. Earlier the prosecutor, Sgt. Haruna Danlami, told the court that on November. 1, 2013, Hajiya Khadija Yahaya of Sabon Wuse, Niger, reported the matter at the Zuba Police Station.

Danlami said Yahaya told the police that sometimes in September 2013, she supplied the convict with palm oil worth N177,500. He told the court that the convict collected the palm oil and refused to pay her. The prosecutor said the offence contravened the provisions of sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code.

Okorocha Bans Littering Of Owerri With Political Posters OWERRI -Governor. Rochas Okorocha of Imo has banned the littering of the state capital with posters during political campaigns. The ban is conveyed in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr Sam Onwuemeodo, in Owerri. The statement said that instead of posters, the politicians should make use of bill boards positioned at approved places and play politics by the rules. It said the days of political bickering and bitterness in the state were over; pointing out that things that promoted progress should be promoted by all. It said government had approved the use of government facilities for political rallies and campaigns to promote peace and unity. It stated that the administration would also provide a level playground for all aspirants irrespective of political affiliations.

“Nobody will be stopped from carrying out his/her constitutional rights.” The statement said All Progressives Congress (APC) would embark on Candidate Assessment Programme by the communities. “It is an innovation in democracy to empower the grassroots in determining their political leaders, as well as eliminate politicians with criminal records.’’ It advised APC aspirants to take note and obtain approvals from communities and necessary authorities before the party endorsed them. “Okorocha assured APC aspirants of fair playground devoid of god-fatherism.’’ The statement said traditional rulers in the state were free to receive any aspirants in their palaces, irrespective of party affiliations. “What the governor disapproves of is the gathering of traditional rulers for political campaigns.

Refrain From Racketeering, FRSC Warns Officials ILORIN - The Federal Road Safety Commission has warned officers and men of the commission to refrain from racketeering. The FRSC Deputy Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi, gave the warning during an inspection visit to the Kwara State Command of the commission in Ilorin. Oyeyemi said any official found wanting “ would be sacked with immediate effect.’’ He charged the commission’s personnel to

remain committed in the discharge of their duties. The FRSC boss also commended officials of the commission, especially the special marshals, for their efficiency. Oyeyemi, whose visit coincided with the opening of the State General Hospital in Ilorin, commended the state government for putting in place a trauma centre at the health facility. He said the centre would save many lives during emergencies. (NAN)

Cross Section of Bauchi State Civil Servants at a sensitisation workshop for Civil Service promotion examination in Bauchi recently.

Abuja NGO Trains 40 Journalists On Investigative Reporting ABUJA - The International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), an NGO, has in Abuja commenced three-day training for 40 journalists on investigative reporting. The journalists are drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Executive Director of the NGO, Mr Dayo Aiyetan, said that the training would expose the journalists to the intricacies involved in investigative journalism. He said the aspect of journalism globally had moved beyond the traditional journalism being the norm in Nigeria. Aiyetan attributed the development to lack of skills required for journalists to perform their duties effectively. “ It is easy to find out about figures, but the skills, tools and the technical know how is not there to embark on such mission. “ We can simply use our computers or any soft ware to find out whatever we want to investigate or unravel,” he said. The executive director promised to set up a factchecking centre in Nigeria for

the benefit of the media practitioners and other similar professionals. “The kidnapped Chibok girls, till now, nobody knows the actual number that were involved. “But if we have the investigative tools to embark on investigation, by now the whole country would have known the actual number rather than conflicting figures,” he said. Aiyetan said that lack of tools had seriously impacted on the work of journalists in the country, especially in investigative reporting. He such journalism was what Nigerian journalists needed to improve and upgrade their skills. He said that truthfulness, consistency, fairness should be their watch words, adding that the virtues remained the beauty of the journalism profession worldwide. Aiyetan expressed confidence that at the end of the training, participants would have cause to smile. Responding, Alhaji Muhammed Haruna, one of the resource persons, tasked the journalists to be dedicated to their jobs to improve their

reportage. He said that with the Freedom of Information Act in existence, it would go a long way to assist journalists, especially in area of investigative journalism. The resource person also urged the participants to be persistent, dogged and determined while trying to get information about a particular event. “ We should try as much as possible to overcome the challenges faced by journalists in the course of our duty. “ There are challenges in every occupation but the question is that how prepared are you to overcome such challenges in the course of your duty,” he said.

Ethiopian Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Ato Sulaiman Dedefo, 2nd Deputy President, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Alhaji Rabo Saleh and president, Chief Tom Akingbogun at the Nigeria Tourism Investors forum and exhibition in Abuja recently.

Confab C’ttee Wants National Planning Commission Upgraded To Ministry ABUJA -The National Conference Committee on Economy, Trade and Investment, has recommended conversion of the National Planning Commission to Federal Ministry of Planning and Economic development. The proposal was read by the Chairperson of the committee, Hajia Bola Shagaya, when she presented the committee’s report at plenary in Abuja. Shagaya said the committee suggested that ministry should be domiciled in the office of the vice president and deputy governors at the federal and state levels, respectively. It advocated the return of the budget office of the federation to Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, while all treaties and agreements should be ratified by the National Assembly. The committee also proposed appropriate policy measure to guide contributions of informal sector to the nation’s GDP. It said the informal sector, where majority of the less privileged persons, particularly women, was operating should be recognised as pivotal to the transformation of the economy. The committee suggested that the monthly Federal Account Allocation should be made weekly. In addition, it said the change would remove the volatility associated with wholesome liquidity withdrawal by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as this adversely affects micro economic stability. The committee

recommended that the budgets of anti-corruption agencies should be on first line charge in order to guarantee their independence. It called for provision of world class infrastructure for the supply of power, transportation, and water, amongst others to support manufacturing, agricultural businesses and tourism development. It advocated a National Fashion Council to facilitate development of fashion industry, constitutional provision for the Sovereign Wealth Fund and legalisation of excess crude account. Government at all levels, it said, should enforce the madein-Nigeria goods’ campaign, so that Nigerians would be encouraged to consume made in Nigeria goods.

President, Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa (left), with Minister of Justice, Bello Adoke at the 13th Maritime Seminar for judges in Abuja recently.

Transparency: ABUJA - Dr Otive Igbuzor, the President, Institute of Strategic Management, Nigeria, has urged Nigerians to support the process of ensuring transparency in the management of public finances. He made the call in Abuja in a keynote address he presented at a stakeholders meeting on “Ensuring Transparency and Accountability in Public Finance in Nigeria”.

Consultant Tasks Govt

The meeting was organised by ActionAid Nigeria and OXFAM in Nigeria, both NonGovernmental Organisations. Igbuzor said that studies had shown that the culture of accountability was poor in Nigeria. According to him, Nigeria has been consistently rated as one of the most corrupt countries in the world by Transparency International. “The development indices of

the country are very bad comparable only to countries at war. “This is why it is important that all patriotic Nigerians must work to ensure transparency and accountability in public finance in the country,’’ he said. He said that several ways like making the budget process participatory and peopledriven, proper payment system

DSS Arrests Fraudster Fronting For Boko Haram

ABUJA - The Coordinator, National Information Centre, Mr. Mike Omeri, has said the Department of State Services (DSS) had arrested a suspect fronting for the Boko Haram sect. Omeri said at a joint news conference in Abuja that the suspect was extorting money from some influential Nigerians allegedly to protect them. The coordinator, who is also the Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), said the suspect was being interrogated. “This is, therefore, an advice and warning signal to Nigerians to be vigilant on the activities of

such characters using Boko Haram as a franchise,’’ he said. He appealed for understanding on some of the measures being adopted by security agencies in addressing the current challenge. The coordinator said the action was meant to guarantee safety and not punitive measure. Also, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, Director, Defence Information, said the military had no problem with the media and would not for whatever reason hamper their activities. Olukolade said the current

check on vehicles conveying newspapers to different areas of the country from their production point was not a clampdown. “But, please bear it in mind; this is not a military clampdown. “Whatever check you see is not aimed at disturbing the business of the media; that’s why we will like to correct the remarks being made on what is going on. “What we are doing are checks; It is informed by intelligence report on the need to enhance our safety,’’ he said.

According to him, the checks will prevent that channel (vehicle) from conveying anything that will be of danger to the rest of us. “One of the inconveniences we have to face is the check we go through; these checks are not normal things, they are imposed by the situation we find ourselves. “And we will request our colleagues in the media to understand it as such and not refer to it as if it is targeted to embarrass them.’’ Olukolade said the military had benefited from press freedom and would ensure that the freedom was guaranteed.

and ensuring integrity in governance existed to ensure transparency in public finances. Igbuzor said that other ways included civil society monitoring, media watch, protection of whistle blowers, institutionalisation of monitoring and evaluation, progressive taxation and implementation of procurement law. He said that legislature in Nigeria had a great role to play in ensuring accountability in public finance, stressing that “there is the need to strengthen the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)”. Igbuzor said that a committee that would be constituted at the end of the meeting to focus on advocacy for government at all levels to act responsibly in handling public finance and avoid unwarranted risks. “The advocacy should also be on the need for government at all levels to make budget releases and audit reports publicly available. “It should also be advocacy for public integrity system with adequate public financial control to ensure that funds are not misused,” he said.

Business + Economy ICT Stakeholders Push Nigeria’s Involvement

Internet Governance:

Vice Chairman, Governing Board of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, Mr Tony Odiadi, Chairman Tertiary Education Trustfund (TETFUND), Dr. Musa Babayo, and former Aviation Minister, Mrs Stella Oduah during the Foundation Stone laying of Aviation School of the Polytechnic at Atani Community in Ogbaru LGA, Anambra State recently.

LAGOS - Stakeholders in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry have expressed readiness for Nigeria to be part of the countries coordinating the Internet. The stakeholders made this known at a two-day 2014 Nigeria Internet Governance Forum (NIGF) organised by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA) in Lagos. The report state that the forum had the theme: “Harnessing Multi-Stakeholders’ Framework for Internet Governance and Economic Growth’’. The Minister of Communications Technology, Mrs Omobola Johnson, said at the event that the importance of the Internet and its whole ecosystem could not be overemphasised. She said that there was the need for Nigeria to be involved

in its governance. The minister was represented by the Ministry’s Director of Telecommunications and Postal Services, Mr John Ayodele. Johnson said that the Internet had evolved and grown over decades to become a most important infrastructure that pervaded every sphere of human endeavour. She noted that billions of people relied on the Internet for socio-economic progress and advancement. “Indeed, with the way we now rely on the Internet in our work, businesses, education, social life and even governance, many wonder how we were ever able to get things done before it came into being. “This realisation has resulted in the need to reassess the governance model of the global Internet ecosystem. “This is to ensure that a more robust, all- encompassing system

is designed that will ensure the continuity of the Internet as one single global resource uniformly available and accessible to all,’’ Johnson said. According to her, the relevance of Nigeria in Internet governance required multi-stakeholders’ collaboration. Mr Emmanuel Edet, the Legal Adviser of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), said that there was the need to localise the NIGF so that it would remain relevant in Nigeria. Edet said that stakeholders should be positively engaged in the forum so as to ensure participation at the global level. Mr Austin Okere, the Chief Executive Officer of Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), said that Internet usage in the country was high, but Internet penetration had remained low.

ABUJA -The Supervising Minister of Aviation, Dr Samuel Ortom, has assured Nigerians of the completion of all projects initiated in the remodelling programme of the four international airports. rtom told newsmen after inspecting the ongoing Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, that the airports under the programme were Abuja, Port Harcourt, Lagos and Kano. He said that the ministry would do everything possible to ensure that the three phases of the remodelling projects were completed. The supervising minister said that the remodelling of airports were in three phases across the country. “We are committed to ensuring that we complete all projects that are initiated by the aviation master plan; no going back on

it. “We are working hard; we are going to improve on our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to ensure we complete these projects. “We are not distracted at all by people who are out to blackmail us; they think that we are distracted, we are not. “We are committed in ensuring that we deliver on the transformation programme of Mr President,” Ortom said. Ortom said that the time line for the completion of the ongoing project at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja was two years. According to him, the remodelling started in March 1, adding that due to progress of work and commitment “it’s like they will deliver before that two years’’. Ortom said that funding of the project of Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano and Lagos International airports was guarantee because of the Chinese loan. “We are executing these projects through the 500 million dollars Chinese loan that was approved by the Federal Government. “So it will be completed at recorded time because no challenge for that funding; the other projects too which are ongoing, we are going to complete them,” he added. Ortom said that the project at Abuja airport had provided 600 jobs for Nigerians which reduced unemployment rate. He said that by the time the projects were completed, they would add value to the aviation industry.

FG To Complete Remodelling Of Airports

People living with disabilities in Imo, react after receiving N6m cheque as empowerment from Shell Petroleum Development Company for starting business of their own in Owerri recently.

FG To Establish Solid Minerals Shops ABUJA - Mr. Musa Sada, the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, said the Federal Government would soon establish solid minerals shops in the country with a view to promoting the exportation of minerals. Speaking to newsmen in Abuja, Sada said the shops would be established in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. “We will not buy the minerals as a government. The miners will work as cooperative societies; they will bring the minerals and somebody in NEPC will now take responsibility for the minerals’ marketing abroad. “All you need is to get certification as to the type of minerals you have and the quantity you brought. “When they sell the minerals, they will now come and give you your money. They are experts in this kind of trade. “Anybody mining will be licenced either as a company, individual or cooperative society, and this licence specifically states the kind of minerals you are involved in,’’ he said.

Sada said that his ministry and the Ministry of Trade and Investment had planned to attach the mineral buying centres to the commodity exchange, adding that it would also issue minerals

buying rights to some people. He said that under this arrangement, there would be a section for agricultural products, solid minerals products, other products at the commodity

exchange. He pledged that the arrangement would be carried out in line with global best practices. Besides, the minister said that

the ministry had always participated in the trade fairs organised in Kaduna, Lagos, Enugu and Abuja to educate investors and the public on how to invest in the mining sector.

Sada said that the move would save machines at the company from further deterioration, adding that the steel company workers were among the best trained.

The minister also said that the steel sector was very crucial to the attainment of industrial revolution, hence, the attention being paid to it. He said the team would also

visit the mining sites in Koton Large and other communities, saying that government planned to use the sector as an alternative to oil in terms of revenue and job creation. Speaking also, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, described the state as a confluence of opportunities.

HADEJIA (JIGAWA) -The Emir of Hadejia in Jigawa, Alhaji Adamu Abubakar, has promised to mobilise his subjects to enroll for the national identity card. Abubakar made the pledge when Hajiya Bilkisu Dalhatu, the state Coordinator, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), paid him a courtesy visit in Hadejia.

Abubakar said community leaders should sensitise their subjects on the need to register for the scheme. “Awareness will ensure participation in the exercise’’, he said. Abubakar directed district and ward heads to educate

people in their respective areas on the importance of the exercise. The emir urged the people to cooperate with the commission’s workers to facilitate the smooth conduct of the exercise. Earlier, Dalhatu said she was

Ajaokuta Steel Coy: FG,

LOKOJA -The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Musa Sada, says the completed facilities at the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi State will soon commence operation. The minister, who made the disclosure in Lokoja, said the Federal Government would soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with some private investors. Sada said at the beginning of a three-day working tour of the company with his counterpart in the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga, that the investors were trade partners and not core investors. He said the investors would be engaged on a short-term basis to operate the completed facilities, adding that the approach was to avoid past mistakes.

Investors To Sign Mo0-pU

Emir To Mobilise Subjects

National ID Card Registration:

on advocacy visit and sought the people’s support to ensure good turn-out for the exercise. Dalhatu said the commission had set up registration centres in the country to facilitate smooth conduct of the exercise.

NIGERIANS have lost count of the thousands of lives the dreaded Boko Haram sect has wasted. REGRETTABLY, over 60 lives perished recently, following the suicide bombing of a bus, at a motor park in Kano. The terrorist act was traceable to Boko Haram. The unfortunate event which shook the city of Kano to its foundations came at a time when some powerful forces in the North are asking for amnesty for Boko Haram. SINCE the incident, a lot of condemnations and protestations have trailed the blast from the UK, the Senate, the House of Representatives, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) and lawyers of note in the country. Several other blasts have occured since the Kano blast and more lives have become wasted. THE NIGERIAN OBSERVER strongly condemns these Boko Haram orchestrated terrorist attacks. But beyond that, we call on the Federal Government to urgently prosecute those already arrested and others with records of complicity. The reason for this position is not far-fetched. ALMOST on a daily basis, there are accounts of several security threats arising from armed robberies, assassinations, armed militancy and banditry, kidnapping, bombings and of recent, the blood-let from a religious sect called the Jaamatus Alhus Sunnah Lid Daawatis Wal Jiliad (otherwise called Boko Harm) who say they are opposed to Western education and are ready to attack every vestige of western civilization. INDEED, the rate of crime and criminality, as exemplified in the high incidence of kidnapping, bombings and other organised crimes has sadly moved from the realm of security threat to an area of real and present danger. THE frightening security condition in Nigeria has not only been a source of worry, it has also dented Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International status. FOR instance, on August 26, 2011 the terrorist

THE NIGERIAN

Ending Boko Haram Insurgence group, Boko Haram bombed the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in Abuja, the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Federal capital city. The consequences of that attack, as of today, are yet to abate. IN the wake of the UN building attack, Nigeria, lost her hosting right of the global food security meeting of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) which was moved from Abuja, to Senegal. The meeting was an assemblage of experts and food administrators all over the globe. ASIDE the UN building bombing on August 26, 2011 that claimed 23 lives including 11 UN personnel, local Islamic fundamentalist sect, Boko Haram, had until late, been orchestrating series of isolated attacks predominantly in Northern Nigeria. The sect is believed to be targeting centres of international attraction, especially in the Federal Capital Territory. CURIOUSLY, the presidential committee on security challenges in the North East Zone has identified security lapses, inter-service rivalry and lack of collaboration as factors that have encouraged the proliferation of security crises in the Northern part of the country. It also blamed the security breaches on high level of poverty, unemployment and other social ills. THE NIGERIAN OBSERVER is however of the considered opinion that serious security collaboration and intelligence sharing must be urgently evolved to arrest security breaches and this needs to go beyond the shores of the nation. The federal government must build inter-agency cooperation through diplomatic channels/pacts, and international intelligence to ensure that crime of whatever scale is nipped in the bud.

MOST importantly, there is the overriding need to promptly move to demilitarize the Nigerian society and reduce the heavy influx of arms and ammunition in the country which have unfortunately gone into the wrong hands. TO this extent, the Customs and Immigration Services, in tandem with the Ministry of Interior should work round the clock to protect the porous Nigerian borders. SOMETHING fundamental equally needs to be done to reduce, if not totally eliminate the existence of private militias that were established, funded and used by politicians and individuals who later dumped them after having been trained to handle arms. ALSO, the various security agencies, beside the need to be technologically equipped and funded to carry out their assigned tasks, would need to be restructured. The structure and duties of our security agencies must be revisited so as to ensure that each organ very well knows its specific roles and function, while the laws establishing these agencies must be made clear on who does what. THE government at all levels, particularly the federal government, urgently needs to carry out reforms in the security sub-sector to eliminate inertia created by inter-agency rivalry and react decisively to security threats with dispatch. ON their part, the citizens must cooperate with the security agencies by supplying them with prompt, useful and relevant information on likely security breaches. This can be facilitated by the existence of a well-coordinated biometric database of Nigerians and non-Nigerians alike indicating where people live, their nature of jobs and background. This will assist in fishing out the bad eggs in the society. DECISIVE steps should be taken to cripple Boko Haram Sect and their operations as well as end their menacing reign. If anything, a safe, secure and peaceful environment is what the present democracy needs to be strengthened and sustained, as such the government and people of Nigeria cannot afford to leave this to the whims and caprices of miscreants.

ISLAM is a moderate religion and lies between these two extremes. It neither permits Muslims to lead a monastic life and forsake the world nor agrees to their leading an animal life. Islam recommends the golden mean and the path of moderation in this sense that a Muslim should pay attention to strengthening of his body as well as his soul, because man does not consist of body only just as he does not possess soul only, but he is the combination of both and in order to attain real prosperity one must protect and strengthen this combination. MODERATION IN WORSHIP The Holy Prophet has said: Allah not ordained monastic life and renunciation of the world in my religion. On the other hand He has appointed me to the prophetic mission with a pure, simple and liberal religion. Whoever likes my religion should follow my ways of life and one of my ways is marriage and formation of a family and paying attention to one’s wife and the affairs of one’s life, Islam treats those who turn away from worshipping Allah to be deserving of punishment and has promised them the same and at the same time it has warned them against the renunciation of the world and monastic life. Be moderate in the affairs of Allah in such a way that you may always be able to continue it. When it comes to our acts of worship such as prayers and fasting, we are also advised by Allah’s Messenger to be moderate and balanced. In this regard, there are two incidences in the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad that are quite revealing. The Prophet one time addressed young Abdullah, son of the famous Companion ‘Ann ibn al-’As, because he had become known for his extreme self-denial. The Prophet came to know of the punishing routine to which he had resorted, and so Abdullah reported that the Prophet came to him and asked: “0 Abdullah! I have been reformed that you fast during the day and offer prayers all the night? ‘Abdullah replied: Yes, Allah’s Messenger! The Prophet said: Do not do that; fast for a few days and then give it up for few days. Offer prayers and also sleep at night, as your body has a right on you, and your wife has a right on you, and your guest has a right on you. It is sufficient for you to fast three days in a month, as the reward of a good deed is multiplied ten times, so it will be like fasting throughout the year. I insisted on fasting and so I was given a hard instruction. I said: 0 Messenger of Allah, I have strength to do more than. The Prophet said: Then, fast like the fasting of the Prophet Dawood (David) and do not fast more that. I asked: How was the fasting of Dawood, the Prophet of Allah? He replied: Half of the year. He used to fast on every alternate day, and he used not to flee on meeting the enemy. Furthennore, Anas ibn Malik narrated that a group of three men came to the house of the wives of the Prophet asking about how the Prophet worshipped Allah. When they were informed about that, they considered their worship insufficient and said: Where are we with respect to the Prophet, as his past and future sins have been forgiven? Then one of them said: I will offer the prayer throughout the night forever. The other said: I will fast throughout the year and will not break my fast. The third said: I will keep away from women and will never marry. Allah’s Messenger came to them and said: Are you the saint people who said such and such? By Allah, I am more fearful of Allah and more conscious of Him than you; yet I fast and break my fast, I pray and do sleep, and I also marry women. Therefore, whoever turns away from my way of life is not from me (not one of my true followers). MODERATION IN FRIENDSHIP AND

Voice Of

Islam

Every Friday With Mallam Abdulfattah Enabulele Chief Imam of Benin

Moderation Is The Key (2)

Be moderate even during the interment of your loved ones. ENMITY Although Islam supports the bonds of friendship which exist between the Muslims and considers these friendships to be a very valuable asset, it prohibits excessiveness even in this regard. Your friendship with your friend should be within the limits of moderation, because it is possible that one day that friend may become your enemy. Excessiveness in friendship becomes the cause of one’s telling his friend about the secrets of one’s life. In that event if that friend changes his attitude and becomes an enemy he can utilize against us those very secrets which we ourselves have imparted to him. In case, however, a friendship is established on the basis of moderation one tells his friend about those secrets only which pose no danger to him even if they are divulged. Furthermore, such friendship is permanent, whereas experience has shown that some extremist friends have, after mutual friendship for some time, adopted the path of extreme enmity and stood up to fight with each other, although acute and extreme enmity, too, is despicable in the eyes of Islam. You should also be moderate in your enmity with your enemy and should not go to the extreme, because it is possible that the same enemy may change his attitude one day and become your friend. If one has not gone to the extreme in the matter of enmity with his enemy he does not have to feel ashamed when they decide one day to establish their relations on the basis of friendship. On the contrary if he has gone to the extreme in the matter of enmity and used all his sources against his enemy, he feels ashamed when they decide to become friends. MODERATION IN FOOD Eating and drinking is also one of those matters with regard to which people go to extremes and, of course, mostly towards the side of excessiveness. No doubt man needs food to live and it is necessary that food should reach the cells of the body so that they may continue their life. However, the important question is, as to how much food is needed by one human being and whether excessive food is good or harmf for him. Imam Ran says: “You should know that human body is like a fertile land. If moderation is exercised in the matter of its development i.e. if necessary quantity of water is provided to it which should neither be so excessive that the land should drown in the water and change into swamp and bog nor so scanty that it should remain thirsty and dry, such land is not looked after properly it becomes barren. Human body, too, is like this. When proper care is exercised in the matter of edibles and beverages and correct assessment is made the body remains healthy and sound. And Imam Mi says: “Do not extend your hand to food unless you are perfectly hungry and stop eating before you are fully satisfied. Chew the food completely and soften it in your

“Islam recommends moderation in all things and all tasks and it is interesting to note that it is not oblivious of even minor matters so that the Muslims may exercise moderation in everyday affairs as well as in important and vital ones”

mouth and under your teeth and off-load your bowels before you go to sleep. If you follow these four rules you will not need the services of a physician. And some medical specialists have said that one third of what you eat is beneficial for you and the remaining two third provides for the livelihood of the physician. All ailments take place due to the contamination of blood. Hence there is one remedy for all of them viz. finding out the cause of this contamination and removing it by means of restricting oneself and taking proper food in small quantity. And when the stomach of man is fill his faculty of thinking goes to sleep and his tongue of wisdom becomes dumb and his limbs fail to worship Allah. In contribution to this topic, the second Khalifah, Umar ibn Khattab said: 0 people, beware of eating too much, for it makes you lazy in prayers, is bad for your body and causes sickness Allah hates the fat man. Rather, you should be moderate in your eating, for that is closer to righteousness and further removed from extravagance, and makes one stronger to worship Allah, No person will be doomed unless he gives precedence to his desires over his religious commitment On the other hand, excessive abstinence from food, lawful drinks, and other worldly affairs is against the Islamic principle of moderation. Excessive abstinence is also discouraged since it leads to weakness and incapacitation. MODERATION IN SPENDING And squander not your wealth extravagantly. Verily the squanderers are brothers of Satan and Satan is ungrateful to his Lord. (17:27-28) Islam recommends to its followers to observe moderation in expenditure in all circumstances. Three things ensure the deliverance of man: (1) Fearing Allah openly and secretly. (2) Moderation in expenditure at the time of affluence as well as indigence. (3) To say the right thing at the time of happiness as well as anger. is possible that excessive expenditure may not be onerous for the rich and some of them may perhaps consider moderation to be something wrong. However, this point should be kept in view that one has guaranteed that those who are rich today will remain rich till the end of their lives, because the vicissitudes of time reduce many rich persons to poverty and if they develop the habit of extravagant expenditure at the lime of affluence they suffer hardship at the time of poverty. The affluence of one who exercises moderation will continue forever and the policy of the golden mean will make amends for the difficulties and hardships of his life and one who exercises moderation, at the lime of affluence and indigence, prepares himself for the vicissitudes of time. Destruction and adversity do not exist in moderation i.e. whoever chooses the middle path between two extremes and refrains from improper extravagances does not get involved in adversity. As I have explained in the beginning, Islam recommends moderation in all things and all tasks and it is interesting to note that it is not oblivious of even minor matters so that the Muslims may exercise moderation in everyday affairs as well as in important and vital ones. It is hoped that keeping this important fact in view will acquaint us of our national duty regarding unconditional submission to the orders of Islam and acting in all matters of life according to the guidance provided by this Divine religion and paying special attention to moderation in all walks of life so that, with the Grace of Allah, we may acquire prosperity in this world as well as in the Hereafter. May Allah save us from going to extremes in religion. May He enables us to achieve moderation, dispensing due tights to ALLAH as well as to fellow human beings, Ameen.

Insight

IT is for the gravely weighty implication of the above observations that one would digress cursorily, with the Caution: that the seeming combative engagements of the pro-Northern Stake-holderships against the spirited Efforts of the Federal Government in the face of the recrudescence of the insurgents’ aggression, were as unfortunate as they are ironically uncalled for: that is, given if there‘s not more to it than meets the eye; neither any intent for pussy-footing on the part of either party; and if political differences must be sunk in lieu of the gravity of the looming ‘offensives’; it is to be found that options of more result-oriented and tactfully logical attention and action abound: this is what exigently calls for a pertinent and pertinacity of the exact response by every concerned interest; from the purview of what ought to be done initially, that should be considered aptly expedient even now. – this is in order of First-thing-First, that centres on due process with judicious dissection of the peculiarity of the very reasons and/or grievances of the warring Sect: that a first-hand spontaneous reaction be dispassionately established, from the stand point of the fraternity and aboriginal concerned Body of the Muslim Hierarchy, and the pantheon assemblage of the Northern Governor’s Stake-holderships, with the eminent personages of Northern descents, along with the exHeads of States, together with the Royal Fathers including the Emirs and the pre-eminent Sultan - all together of whom with such majestic patriarchate to say “No”! “That the out-break of the terror incident is abominable to our Founding Fathers, and to our Motherland, and even as it is a profanity and anathema to the peaceful Brotherhood of Islamic Faith, and our common humanity under Allah”! That all of the stakeholders to meet jointly in the spirit and manner in which a parent would, for example, tend to one’s child or ward with a first-aid attention, in a situation of sudden injury or attack of affliction – such as this to be the initially mediatory exercise to be complemented in earnest with fairness and firmness, to ‘spare not the rod and spoil not the child’; and a thrust of a skin-deep conciliatory rapport with the said sect, that their mind may be tempered, by the robustly unassailable clouts of the said leaderships of the Northern Statesmen, which include the overriding advantage of the congeniality of their kindredship as fellow indigenes; and in the order of the conducive logistics and proximity of the geographic locality in which the sect operates predominantly - with the candor and sincerity of

Exorcising Insurgenc

purpose that are bound by the comparative aboriginal lineage, nay the dogdon’t-eat-dog goodwill, as would be conjured by the inherently collective filial aura of the said Northern Prime Movers, that cannot fail to put the ‘Northern intervention’ to be drastically on top of the matter: such amicably tactical moves in a family setting to be equally anchored side-by-side by the Federal Government (perhaps by the representation of the Amnesty Committee), that cannot but yield much sooner to a full-scale peaceful resolve; this is as such calculated moves would have enhanced indepth scrutiny into the anatomy of the Sect’s posture of the said insurgency … which would have provided a chance for the eminent Islamic Doyens and worthy Northern paternity to deploy persuasion and enlightening didactics towards their reorientation; to enlist their remorse towards voluntary surrender of the unprovoked hostilities. This is more so against the backdrop of the Sect’s enigmatic and hard-to-decipher culture of guerilla-warfare inclinations: This now being a way that would be in favor of their longings, perhaps, for a self-assertive bid for clemency that they may be saved to save them from themselves: needless to say that this would be a concisely dignified way to meander tidily out of the Sect’s spasmodic insecurity menace; and of noteworthy would be the foray of this envisaged trouble-shooting masterpiece, that it is not only without prejudice to the limits of the concerns and commitments of the Federal Government so far (especially with the Schedule of the State-ofEmergency), but would ultimately be seen to reflect an all-round judicious decisiveness, in which the embattled Federal Government is not entrapped with a precipitate political step that may turn out to be a boomerang of a dangerous precedence, that would seem to scotch-the snake-in-the-bush…:, an action that would not be a seeming open license for other similar criminally-minded to be rather spurred in their ‘trade-in-stock’, as regards the handling of the somewhat amorphous magnitude of the unfortunate insecurity saga: just as one would be equally mindful of the victims of the fratricidal attacks who now lurk in the waiting and moaning for a befitting justice! This is for the so bewildered Northern Region and the rest of the Nation to heave a sigh of relief; and that the aftermath degree of success thereto, would

“That the out-break of the terror incident is abominable to our Founding Fathers, and to our Motherland, and even as it is a profanity and anathema to the peaceful Brotherhood of Islamic Faith, and our common humanity under Allah”!

be a triumphant credit to the overall leadership sagacity of which the North is traditionally not known to be a push-over neither a Lilliputian but an inimitable stalwart. This is also not only for the hostility of the insurgency war to be won preferably with ease, and at its cost-effective ratio, but for the preservation of ultimate peace that is the ensuing desire … Just yet as such victory would have evinced a profound breakthrough in a somewhat Litmus Test for the nation’s leadership generally; such that would usher in opportune moment not only for hopes in the said nation’s leadership to rise to the delight of the citizens, but would also attract a far-reaching and gratifying nods by the international community to be resilient in the confidence that Nigeria, after-all, has what it takes in latent Leadership Preserve to be so entrusted with the leadership chair, not just of the Continental Negroid Race, but as a formidable selfesteemed leadership that can be reckoned with at the strata of the larger World, that is now a global village. Thus from the foregoing, it bears emphasis of a notion again, that all of these passing diabolical incidences plaguing the LAND are simply the signs and apparitions of the hang-over of the too-many-asystemic-defect in the administrative machinery of the nation’s statehood: such as hitherto sketchily alluded to, as being the cumulative background with a somewhat metaphysical undertone, that formed the retarding stasis which reversibly demagnetizes the nation’s otherwise stupendous endowments from GROWTH way back in time; and this is as is deductible to originate from the basis of the said Arrows of Disunity, as are present in the twists of the prevailing fragile ethnic cohesion – being another angle of a dire implication of the biorhythm of nature

th re li fo m c e th su w s b p T a b th a e h b a g so in a p p p p b m ra a c c

Insight

cy, Insecurity From The Land

hereto, which goes with the immutable laws of ecompense: as the course of sowing and reaping: ikewise the concept of “nothing-goes-for-nothing” – all or which there is desperate need for investible cord of mutual understanding within the body of the nation’s itizenry: towards equitable win-in-win aggregation of quality of interests to be instilled in the mainstream of he populace at inter-personal and inter-group levels; uch that should derive statutorily and habitually from within the endearing spirit of participatory and partnering ocial incentives as in faith and confidence-building between the symbiotic relationships of the leaders as a party on the one hand, and the followers on the other. This is to saying that it is only the two who are in agreement that could work together; this is even as buttressed biblically in the aphorism that when two or hree are gathered together…, shall their prayers be answered: this is ostensibly to demystify the aura of strangements in the gaps between the haves-and-thehave-nots; the-rich-and-the poor, etcetera: for there to be a malleable ground of positive co-relationships amongst the populace that should be at ease, in other to get carried along with sufficient enthusiasm and olidarity in a bandwagon of cooperation with the leaders n their onerous administrative dispensation – while this also is that the nation becomes constructively better pedestalled with a regime of leaderships that are predetermined and ‘regimentally’ focused on the nation’s progress target. It’s on this premise that the simmering public outcries and social restiveness in the land, cannot but be viewed with ironic mix-feelings: that some well meaning irate-members of the society are suing for adical change, which strikes as their pent-up angers and apparent reaction to the diluvia of difficulties and hallenges that had overwhelmed the nation: such mob ynicisms being more from irritability and emotionality,

that are rather unmindful of the vagaries of the inherent causative factors why the nation is in floundering chaos; because, mob and insurrectionistreversal-action or radicalist eye on a break-up, are hardly an equation or answer to the puzzling predicaments that confront the nation and her populace: for even if the nation is split into bits of smithereens to the levels of one’s own preferences for a given existing geographic locality, for example, it would still bear no difference; for as long as it is virtually the same spirit and culture and sociology that relatively rules the people as inhabitants that may only be so geographically different. This is given the self-consciousness and parochial nature of humans and the attendant sensitive self-interest along with intricate moral hazards that are ever in conflicts amongst any given people who share common demographic dwellings - even from the family fold, through the ambits of communities to the strata of the conurbating larger societies - such that were being the curious issues of social concerns: needless to say that this universally puerile stigma of the humans had been the relative necessity for the formular of the Rule-of-Law as encapsuled in the instrumentality of democracy - more or less as arbiter and the Daniel-come-to-Judgment and as a Goal of harmony and tranquility for the Body of Mankind; but this is the same skillful devise for ‘Peaceful Co-existence’ as envisioned by man for man, that has been so defiantly abused and bastardised by the acts of the same man - out of which are the spillages of all the sordid ills that are antithetical to the orderly environments in which a society may thrive: save that the antidote against these social pestilences beyond the law cannot be from anywhere else than the nugget of proficiency with which the State’s POWER are managed at the prerogatives of the State’s Leadership Stakeholders in our given democratic sphere. This is contextually, for the Government of the Day to bank doggedly on the will not to get distraught in the outrageous density of the prevailing socio-political clouds plaguing the nation; but to have vibrant administrative thrust that must zero-in on a proactively result-oriented strategy to eliminate the social canker of disunity: as the adherence to the tenets and dictum of corporate oneness of purpose is a Golden Key to lock out the

bitter fears of one another; while it suffices to say specifically that the Nigerian Nation’s peculiar situation comes across as a rippled water as per the prevailing socio-political events under which the leadership stakeholders have been in the eye of the storm for obvious reasons: This is such that calls for a need for the imbalances in the political ‘covenant’ between the nation`s leaders and the citizens to be streamlined, with priority for conciliation and remedial normalisation: for the vista of the two interests to be seen to ally in agreeing to agree as hitherto illustrated. This sanctified socio-political understanding between the citizenry and the leaderships that had long eluded the nation, must be the providential era to dawn for the nation to be due to be recipient of the long sought breakthrough in facilitated socio-politicaleconomic progress ... only at the threshold of the obedience to a nationally mutual empathy and accommodativeness of the leaders and the rest of the people! It’s at this juncture again, that the order of the protocol of nature takes precedence: as regards what needs to be done as it borders on the imperatives of the ‘firstthing-first’: as a seeming preamble that precedes the conjuring of an answer being sought against the circuitous challenges that confront the Nigerian nation: for which is the desperate want that something should ‘givein’ exigently and exclusively on the part of the leaderships, to serve as a culturing and psychological balm and/or olive-branch in preparatory stance towards the redress of the dismal trends that had rightly or wrongly but allegedly so attributable to the excepted errors and omissions of the said Leaderships, which had formed the vicarious grounds of disgruntlements amongst the populace; from which are the ensuing uproars with manifest upsurge of anarchical and multi-faceted antisocial vices!! Indeed this is for there to be a remarkable quid-pro-quo gesture of what-togive as a token of good-turn by the leaderships to the People from whom to expect much and also to deserve another.

“This sanctified socio-political understanding between the citizenry and the leaderships that had long eluded the nation, must be the providential era to dawn for the nation to be due to be recipient of the long sought breakthrough in facilitated sociopolitical-economic progress .”

With Francis U. Odupute

Art Alive

Nature And Meaning Of Art By MARY YOUNG

ART is seen as any human activity that consists in the fact that one man consciously by means of certain external signs, hand on to others feelings he has lived through, and that others are infected by these feelings and also experience them. It can also be seen as a means of union among men joining them together in the same feelings indispensable for the life and progress towards wellbeing of individuals and humanity. Since art is seen as “any human activity”, it goes to show that the beauty of our environment focusing attention on the importance of the conditions of the atmosphere, the weather and how everything around us is projected is very important and significant. Therefore, our eye functions to help us see and appreciate the things around us thereby contributing to our well being. Our eye appreciates colours and interprete what we see and acknowledge,benefiting mankind as whole. The eye helps us to appreciate the effect of colours to the behaviour of humans. It tells us how red denoted danger or stop; black represents mourning, white stands for peace, amber indicates go ahead, purple for royalty etc. Colours are very vital elements of Art and they serve different purpose in our different localities. Going by the second meaning of art we can be right if conclude that festival celebration is one of the means through which we (humans) can achieve unity. So the African society is richly blessed with culture and tradition. In Nigeria to be precise, we have some festivals that show case our culture and tradition which has an important placing as they are abundantly distributed within 12 calendar months, and they are scattered around our country. For example, the Igue festival of Benin kingdom, the much admired Argungu fishing festival of

Niger state, the Eyo Masquerade festival of Lagos state, New yam festivals in South eastern Nigeria etc. In our different villages, festivals exist to celebrate different things and worship deities. It is important to note that these festivals are back up with dances which are significant depending on the costumes used. The costumes that are used during each any festival have different roles they play during the cultural display and other performances. Talking about costumes and festivals, the one the Oba of Benin for example will put on during the Igue festival is totally different from the ones the other people will put on. And depending on what day of the festival is and the significance of that day to Benin kingdom, the Oba puts on a red or a white costume. Away from the Benin Kingdom, masks are worn also during festivals, celebrations and ceremonies whose purpose is to cleanse, honour, entertain, initiate, bless etc masks sever both to disguise and to protect the wearer who is most often a male, as he performs in dances or theatrical skits. Most masks are carved from wood, although some are made of cloth and other materials, they can be used to serve the same purpose irrespective of the material they are made of. They may be decorated with paint, beads, cloths or raffia.

For example, in Burkina Faso, former Upper Volta in Africa, masks are worn by young people during their initiation into adulthood. Each mask takes the form of an animal and represents a spirit that is thought to inhabit the surrounding forests, rivers and bush country. It is their believe that the mask dance prevents the villagers from harm. From the above description, nature, significance and examples of arts, it is then important for people to know the importance of art in our society irrespective of the area or section of art we belong to- whether visual, liberal or performing because Art cannot be defined and actualized without the above elements.

POETRY

Strange Demon

Pearls and rubies floating in ashes of the afternoon. Roses from the rose in the dusk’s bloom. His shadows fleeing the ways of his feet. A stranger of the eyes beneath….. Black robes in midst of white threads….. Blood and water, victims of his might’s bread….. Cursed –blessing a virtue of his soul’s rage….. He was alive in his death, a statue of a lost age…. “O thou fleeing slowly” from the trumpets gaze….. Amazed in a lost-word, the soul; a grease to his sole, “HATE” a royal fabric to his soul…. Dammed with the saints –of cursed reeds….. Olympus has fallen on “false weeds”…. The temple of shame a cursed seed…. Truth hidden deep within trenches of a “false-need” Whips abating sleeping –throns greeting his fierce

FRANCODUS ON FRIDAY

This Egg is doomed, unless... unless...

awakening…. “Gates and curtains” clouded with blurred gaze on “doom’s titles” “Souls-of a thousand, sank with the woes of the dust” foes of his chest, dressed in the mills he caress…. Locusts to loot, Troops crush with “the boots” Grieviance was a levy paid by enemies ready Buried–graves, far from death’s grasp, His cold –feets “stained on white” like “black –wasp” War seems cruel His breath was “agape” norms of his swors… Bone to the clubs … Ways –of the sorcery known to the claws of the den His feign-might shells of his own ruins …. He loathe peace, lost in a story with no peace. Strange Demon

By VICTORIA OGWAMENHLU Mobile: 08023680030

Art And Culture

With AMBROSE EKHOSUEHI

Patriach Of Religious Culture PATRIARCHS of religious culture were in medieval time, regarded Christendom as a living organism at whose head were two supreme authorities — The Pope, the holder of spiritual power and the King or Emperor, the holder of temporal power. The mission of both was that of general government and helping the people at each authority in its own sphere. An important cultural aspect is that all were born pagans and that Christians are made, not born. People are born pagans and become Christian by baptism. Learning to become a Christian became quite common and spread. The towns and cities were rapidly Christianized but there was contrast between the population of the City — Christians and that of rural areas. It was at this time the word PAGANUS, heathen, Edigue, Ikeferi, a person who is not a Christian, or a person who sets high value on sensual pleasures, took on religious meaning and the word pagan was used to describe folk who was still holding on to their ancestral idolatrous traditions outside the church. The Church was careful not to topple idols. The church tried to ensure that no religious vacuum was left; it strove to Christianize people’s deeply rooted social customs and traditional religious celebrations by finding a place for them within the sacramental discipline or in the annual liturgical cycle of the mystery of Jesus Christ and the solemnities in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints. Some churches were erected on the sites of old

pagan sanctuaries that were in those places to which from time to time immemorial, the peoples of those areas had been worshipping their gods. Veneration of saints, Martyrs and relics are tangible proofs that they were persons, not gods, which caught the imagination of the pagan people. This proved very helpful in the task of teaching Christian doctrine. Beautiful works of arts, images and sculptures were preserved. There were defenders of images by studies and by writings. Prominent people by virtue of their position in society or family background often held Episcopal sees in the Christian Roman period. They helped to enhance the social prestige of the episcopacy. Christians —Emperors role as protector of the church was regarded as so necessary, but when the emperors ceased to provide with this protection, the pontiff looked to the kings to take over that role. Christianity was introduced to Great Benin Kingdom during the reign of Pope Leo x (15131521). Martin Luther, an Augustinian Monk was condemning the sales of indulgences. This was the beginning of the protestant Revolution which divided the church into Catholic and Protestants. The Portuguese were searching for another kingdom rule by a priestly king who would join with the Christians of Western Europe in the ‘Holy War’ because the Portuguese had believed that such a kingdom lay in the depths of Africa. The first Envoy arrived Great Benin in the year 1472 C.E Ruy de Sequira, anchored in the Great Benin river. The dignified

men who were about to come on board probably knew more about Rug de Sequira’s expedition than he could ever know about them and where they came

First rumours, then firsthand reports had reached Great Benin of the arrival of the white men, of their desire to trade in gold, pepper, Ivory and of

country was known to foreigners as Benin Kingdom and they were the representatives of the Oba; the king of Benin. “When the missionaries

the slow progress of their ships east-ward along the coast. The News of Ruy de Sequira’s ship must have come ahead of him from canoes slipping through the maze of waterways. Benin Royal officials were being paddled out to meet the first European to reach the Kingdom. The Royal officials were from a people called Edo. Their

arrived, the king of Benin was very delighted. The Missionaries went with the king to the war and remained a whole year. In the month of August, the king ordered his son and those of his greatest noblemen to become Christian. The king ordered a church to be built in Benin City and they learnt how to read and did it very well.”

Pope Francis

from. Long before the Portuguese had arrived on the coast, canoes had been making journey through the Lagoons and along to the coast where gold was mined. For centuries they had been trading on blue cotton cloth, ivory, beads, kola-nuts, Leopard and civet skins, the glands of the civet used for making perfume.

The King of Benin and the king of Portugal exchanged letters for the first time and some of the secrets of Great Benin were revealed to the Europeans. The Portuguese were amazed with what they discovered in Great Benin. It was a Cross, the symbol of Christian religion and of the crusade. The cross is still a mystery to the Portuguese. Oba Esigie believed that the church would make his kingdom better and made Christian religion, state religion. His holiness, the Catholic Pontiff Pope Innocent XII sent ecclesiastical letters to Oba Oreoghene to head the Church, when the affairs of the church were entirely given to the native fathers — the Ohen Osa. Pope Innocent XII, made it possible for any ecclesiastic, from the Pope to the Parish Priests to help relatives. He said “if they are poor, indeed help them, just as you help any other poor person.” The church is seen as the great defender of human life, of person’s dignity, of human freedom, of marriage and the family. The Ohen Osa is the Prelate of Holy Aruosa Cross of God. Holy Aruosa is not a shrine of Idol worshipping rather it is a centre for the worship of the Most High God. The Spiritual Power and the temporal powers were both vested on the Oba of Benin, Benin Monarch, the Patriarch of the Religious culture.

“Long before the Portuguese had arrived on the coast, canoes had been making journey through the Lagoons and along to the coast where gold was mined. For centuries they had been trading on blue cotton cloth, ivory, beads, kola-nuts, Leopard and civet skins, the glands of the civet used for making perfume.”

Now, Is It About Herdsmen?

IT was a shade between dream and nightmare, but it was as real as the firmaments overlooking the sky. Several herds of cattle, all the cows looking extremely overfed and boisterous, stormed the little ‘mansion’ where I held sway and they were knocking on the windows, not the doors, asking, nay, demanding that I signify my presence in the home by drawing the blinds and hearing their complaints. It was in the dead of night and the winds rustled the greenry. My first reaction, which made the dream appear like real, was a scream, consternation and then awe. That would have been the reaction of anyone who heard cattle speaking in the voice of humans. It reminded me of the Biblical Balack and Balam and the talking donkey. The cattle in my dream talked! I obeyed by doing exactly as they anticipated, drew the window blind aside and awe-struck by the sight that greeted me. The cows were hundreds of thousands in number, covering the entire land mass in the street and they were all complaining at once! The guttural mumble of animal voices in speech was itching my ears, but I had to listen with rapt attention to make out the words, to decipher them. “We are like sheep without shepherd; our herdsmen’s throat have been cut. They have stolen our limbs to eat. We are more than the number you see, but they have made mince meat of us and they did not pay to the one who kept us.” I see! The complaint was clear and germaine. The words were explicit enough. These cows were explaining to me why they raged into my compound in the dead of night, invading every space in the street, carrying invisible placards, direly needing to be placated. I see! I cleared my voice, the voice which fear and shock had numbed and further drew the window blinds apart. When I did this, the leaders of the band at the window began to poke their horns at me, not to threaten or injure me, but to show me their injuries. I saw that the horns were bleeding where they stuck to the flesh in the sides of the head. The animals were injured by their attackers. “They won’t let us graze; they have abundance of green leaves and grass; we help them keep the bushes low; we expected gratitude not this show of wickedness. They kill our master and scatter the herds.” Again I cleared my throat to respond, again the cows interrupted me. “Did the one who created the cows not create the land for them to graze, the food for them to eat? When humans want to slaughter us for meat, won’t they desire us fattened? They price us according to the haunches that protrude from our shoulders and when they eat us they bite their tongues in

“We are like sheep without shepherd; our herdsmen’s throat have been cut. They have stolen our limbs to eat. We are more than the number you see, but they have made mince meat of us and they did not pay to the one who kept us.” satisfaction, but why would they not let us eat our own meal provided for us by the one who made us?” I was patient in listening to them, but they were not ready to give me ears and when one bull made his way through the huge number and got to my window and began to yank off the louvers, fear made me scream and wake up. It was a dream! Thank God! Thank God! But… I relived the complaints made by these animals and I was worried.

Afterword * * *

Be security conscious Support an orphanage Let peace reign!

Now with the clampdown by government on media on the reportage of terrorism matters, little will be heard on the Boko Haram insurgency by the masses except by first hand information or on social media, however, more will be heard about Fulani herdsmen and their unholy escapades – their invasion and attack of communities their slaughter of rural dwellers and rape, even murder, of their victims as it happened in Odighi, a rural community in Edo State. We also recently heard that cattle rearers or Fulani herdsmen have ‘invaded’ communities in Enugu State. Well, that is one negative thing about the media that we as professionals are struggling to correct. The word invasion should not have been

part of a news story that only shows that herdsmen were in a community to find a place for their herds to graze. The community, seeing them in their numbers expressed worries about their farms and the need for security of their lives and property and reporters cashed in on it. However, we are not exonerating Fulani herdsmen, or herdsmen from whatever ethnic extraction in the blame of the untoward behaviour and mayhem they have unleashed on host communities but we are asking members of host communities to learn to have a grip on their fears in order to be strong and alert enough to defend themselves in times of unmerited attack. Herdsmen have also complained that communities threatened and attacked them. We are also worried about women being manhandled, raped and even murdered by herdsmen. The Odighi incident in Edo State for instance, how did a lone woman on her farm constitute threat to herdsmen that they rough handled, raped and murdered her? That is a question begging for answers. Shouldn’t women and girls move freely again in their own vicinities for fear of herdsmen? Shouldn’t herdsmen and their herds move freely for fear of host community members? This brings to the fore the need for government to define the extents and limits where herds should be grazed and the areas, definitely not on people’s livelihoods or farmlands. That is trespass ab initio. Community people should desist from stealing cattle. That is an offense. Herdsmen should not forcefully enter people’s houses in search of water or a place to rest. That is break and entry, also an offense. We don’t wish to hear that the rights of women and the girlchild were subjugated through acts of violence, rape and other bodily harm inflicted by herdsmen in any community, Place or farmland. Women advocacy groups will kick and if we kick hard we will demand that herdsmen be treated as insurgents or terrorists. If it means the entire women of Nigeria not touching buffon or meat from cow with a long pole, we will do it. We can hold out placards and hash tag cow meat as poisoned beef if we hear again that herdsmen invaded

FEMINIQUE With IJEOMA UMEH email: ladywithegoldenpen@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 08182382839 communities and raped women or the girl-child, or killed husbands and ransacked homes. Female butchers are everywhere and we can mobilize them to halt the sale of cow meat!!! This is a stern warning! We are also asking religious leaders and traditional rulers to work harder, cooperate with the police, vigilante groups to ensure both their people and the herdsmen are safe and those herdsmen are contained, if it means giving them gate pass before they lead their herds into communities and special forces closely monitoring or watching them till the grazing is over. We are also working on bills in the National and State Houses of Assembly in partnership with the Ministry of Environment

for a special law on regulated grazing areas. Abroad there are regulated grazing areas. People don’t find cows grazing at their backyards. It is only in Nigeria that any thing goes, the herdsmen drive the hosts away, steal both livestock, property, food and most importantly, dignity of the women, even murder them in the process. That is unacceptable. For the palpable fear of cattle and herdsmen, women should no longer go to farm unaccompanied. And when a herdsmen approaches, scream if you can, run if you can, and bite deep if you can. Self defense is permitted in law! For the cows in my dream, it is not everywhere that the herdsman leads that you should follow. You can’t graze on my farm, you are mince meat ab initio.

Dora, The Woman We Want To Be!

Like a colossus you bestride this Earthly space Wherever you held The Forte You made a Fortress out of Your Life was as Large as the Emphasis on the first Letter of the words Life and Large Whatever shortcomings Our own little lives Have been encumbered With your short but exemplary 59 years sojourn on Mother Earth Opens new vista for a come back There is hope For tomorrow Because a Woman like Dora lived For in her

Shadows we See glimmers Of the woman We want to be! (Tribute by FEMINIQUE to the late iron lady of NAFDAC Prof. Dora Nkem Akunyili.

Late Prof. Dora Akunyili

International Features Sunni Insurgents Close In On Iraq’s Biggest Refinery SUNNI insurgents from an al Qaeda splinter group closed in on Iraq’s biggest oil refinery on Wednesday after seizing the northern city of Mosul in a devastating show of strength against the Shi’ite-led government. Security sources said militants from the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) - Sunni militants waging sectarian war on both sides of the Iraqi-Syrian frontier - drove into the town of Baiji late on Tuesday in armed vehicles, torching the court house and police station after freeing prisoners. The militants offered safe passage to some 250 men guarding the refinery on the outskirts of Baiji on condition they leave. Iraq’s Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari called on his country’s leaders to come together to face “the serious, mortal” threat. “The response has to be soon. There has to be a quick response to what has happened,” he said during a trip to Greece. Zebari said Baghdad would work with forces from the nearby Kurdish autonomous region to drive the fighters from Mosul. Baiji resident Jasim alQaisi said the militants had also asked senior tribal chiefs in Baiji to persuade local police and soldiers not to resist their takeover. “Yesterday at sunset

some gunmen contacted the most prominent tribal sheikhs in Baiji via cellphone and told them: ‘We are coming to die or control Baiji, so we advise you to ask your sons in the police and army to lay down their weapons and withdraw before (Tuesday) evening prayer’.” The Baiji refinery can process 300,000 barrels per day and supplies oil products to most of Iraq’s provinces and is a major provider of power to Baghdad. A worker there said the morning shift had not been allowed to take over and the night shift was still on duty. The push into Baiji began hours after ISIL overran Mosul, one of the great Sunni historic cities, advancing their aim of creating a Sunni Caliphate straddling the border between Iraq and Syria. ISIL has become a dominant player in Iraq and Syria where it has seized a string of cities over the past year, often fighting other Sunni groups. An estimated 500,000 Iraqis have already fled Mosul, home to some 2 million people, and the surrounding province, the I n t e r n a t i o n a l Organisation for Migration said on Wednesday. The fall of Mosul is a slap to Baghdad’s efforts to quash Sunni militants who have regained ground and strength in Iraq over the past year, seizing Sunni towns of

Falluja and parts of Ramadi in the desert west of Baghdad at the start of the year. The United States, which pulled its troops out from Iraq to and half years ago, pledged to

the frontier with Syria, where they are fighting President Bashar alAssad, an ally of Shi’ite Iran. Fleeing residents said ISIL fighters were leaving their stamp

radicals, first against the U.S. troops that overthrew Sunni dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003 and now Shi’ite-led Iraqi forces. Most families fled north towards the nearby

Iraqi families fleeing violence in the northern Nineveh province gather at a Kurdish checkpoint in Aski kalak. help Iraqi leaders “push back against this aggression” as the government of Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki asked parliament to declare a state of emergency. It said Washington would support “a strong, coordinated response”, adding that “ISIL is not only a threat to the stability of Iraq, but a threat to the entire region”. ISIL control in the Sunni Anbar province as well as around Mosul in the north, would help the Islamist group consolidate its grip along

“Many Sunnis feel disenfranchised and some have made common cause with foreign Islamist radicals, first against the U.S. troops that overthrew Sunni dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003 and now Shi’ite-led Iraqi forces.”

everywhere in the cities they seized, planting their black flags and banners on police stations, army barracks and other government buildings. “They are all masked, but they don’t do us any harm,” said a 13-year old schoolboy, describing the militants who pushed into his hometown of Mosul. A 40-year old man who fled Mosul with his family said: “We are frightened because we don’t know who they are. They call themselves the revolutionaries. They told us not to be scared and that they came to liberate and free us from oppression.” Critics say the failure of Maliki, a Shi’ite Muslim in power for eight years, to address grievances among the once dominant Sunni minority led to a rise in Sunni militancy and pushed Sunni groups and tribes to rally behind ISIL. Many Sunnis feel disenfranchised and some have made common cause with foreign Islamist

Kurdistan region, where Iraq’s ethnic Kurds have autonomy and their own large and disciplined military force, the Peshmerga. Some officials in Baghdad spoke of seeking help for Mosul from Kurdish Peshmerga, which have long been a force in the jockeying between Shi’ites, Kurds and Sunnis for influence and, especially, for control of oilfields in the north of Iraq. Two officials in the ministry of Peshmerga said on Wednesday that there was no military coordination between Baghdad and Arbil, but that on the ground locally there was some coordination between Iraqi army and Kurdish forces. Peshmerga now control the Rabia area on the border with Syria after the Iraqi army allowed them to deploy there and also the Kusk base, 45 km west of Mosul, and some other brigade

headquarters Asked whether the Peshmerga would try to enter Mosul, Halgurd Hikmat, media officer at ministry of Peshmerga, said that depended on the President of the region and that a formal request would have to be made by Maliki, who is commander of the Iraqi armed forces. ISIL, led by Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, broke with al Qaeda’s international leader, Osama bin Laden’s former lieutenant Ayman al-Zawahri, and has clashed with al Qaeda fighters in Syria. The group, originally rooted in austere Sunni groups like the Tawhid, fought US and Iraqi forces after Saddam’s fall and the Shi’ite rise to power that ending decades of Sunni rule. ISIL regards Shi’ites as heretics. ISIL posted photographs of its fighters wearing black balaclavas on its “Nineveh State” Twitter account, interspersed with verses from the Koran. The group dubbed the Mosul offensive “Enter Upon Them Through The Gates”. In a newsletter, ISIL enjoined Sunnis to join them in the fight against Maliki’s “Safavid” army - a reference to the Persian dynasty that promoted Shi’ite Islam. “Join the ranks oh brothers!” ran one slogan. “Maliki’s tyrannical strength no match for pious believers.” In the province of Salahuddin, they overran three villages in the Shirqat district, torching police stations, town halls and local council buildings before raising the ISIL banner. Nearly 800 people were killed in violence across Iraq in May - the highest monthly death toll so far this year. Last year was the deadliest since the sectarian bloodletting of 2006-07.

Religion Mystery, Babylon The Great, Mother Of Harlots And Abominations Of The Earth (3) AS earlier highlighted in this series, the worship of Mother and child is the object of worship of this religious system, known in Revelation 17:5 as MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. Through this religious system Satan deceives the whole world into worshiping him by establishing his own doctrine which contradicts the word of God. Some of these unbiblical satanic doctrines include amongst others, the doctrine of baptismal regeneration, the doctrine of purgatory, doctrine of prayers for the dead under the cover of funeral services, doctrine of canonization or deification of dead saints, doctrine of confessionals to priests, doctrine of extreme unction etc. The falsehood of these doctrines shall be clearly seen in the light of the Truth of the bible. (1)Unbiblical doctrine of baptismal regeneration: Satan through this religious system teaches followers of this system that without water baptism, people cannot enter heaven. But in Luke 23:42-43, the thief on the cross, entered paradise with Jesus, without being baptized at all. Satan also teaches that it is baptism by sprinkling of water that makes a man to be born again. This is not true. First of all, there is no biblical example of baptism by sprinkling with water. Baptism is by immersion in a flowing river, as demonstrated by Jesus Christ in Matthew 3:16. Water baptism by immersion according to the scriptures, is not even a passport to heaven; it is simply an outward demonstration of the righteousness we already have in Christ, through faith in the death, burial, and

resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore water baptism is not a guarantee for the new birth. The new birth is received when one is born of water (the word of God) and the Holy Spirit, as written in John 3:5, and I Peter 1:23, which reads “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever”. In the book of Acts 8:13,21, it is recorded that Simon, the sorcerer( a wizard ) believed the gospel, and was baptized by immersion in water, yet Apostle Peter told him, that he had neither part nor lot in the kingdom of God, because his heart was not right in the sight of God, and that he needed to repent of his wickedness, even though he had been baptized by immersion in water. Will this kind of man, with wickedness in his heart enter heaven, even though he was baptized? Of course NOT. Therefore baptismal regeneration is a satanic doctrine to deceive mankind, and make men believe that they are fit for heaven when indeed they are far from heaven. (2) Unbiblical doctrine of Justification by works: Modern Babylon teaches that their adherents or followers are justified by their works of “Charity”. This contradicts the truth of the bible. In Ephesians 2:8-9, it is written, that we are saved by grace, through faith in Christ, not of works, lest any man should boast. Justification by works is establishing man’s own righteousness, which is not the righteousness of God Romans 10:1-3. (3) Unbiblical doctrine of extreme unction: Modern Babylon teaches that the ‘dying’ must be anointed with oil to cleanse them of their sins, so that they

can be made ready for heaven. This is a dangerous doctrine of the devil, to give followers false hope in contradiction of the truth in I John1:7, that only the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. (4) Purgatory and prayers for the dead: Another unbiblical doctrine, propagated by this religious institution/system called, Mystery Babylon, Mother of harlots, is the satanic doctrine of purgatory and prayers for the dead. This doctrine gives the followers of Modern Babylon, an open license to live in sin. It is to rob followers, of salvation from sin and repentance from dead works. This in its totality contradicts the truth of the bible. In Hebrews 9:27, it is written “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment”. And Jesus, who cannot lie, confirmed this by the examples of the death of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke16:22-23 “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: and the rich man also died, and was buried; And in HELL, he lift up his eyes, being in torments and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.” Why must followers of this religious institution pray for the dead, whose judgments, have already been passed, and who are either in hell or in heaven. Why funeral services for the dead? Was there any funeral service for Jesus, our Master, and Saviour? Or were there funeral services for John, the Baptist, or for James, killed by King Herod, or for Stephen who was stoned to death? Or was there a funeral service for Moses that was buried by God? (Deuteronomy 34:5-6) In Matthew 27:57-60 Jesus Christ our perfect example was buried, without any

funeral service. Joseph of Arimathea, who buried Jesus, was a very rich man and so had all the financial resources to bury Jesus in a grand style if he wanted to. But he obeyed the words of Jesus his Master in Matthew 11:29 which reads, “Learn of me, for, I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls”. But many Christians will find themselves in hell, because of the worldly and flamboyant burials of their loved ones, as written in Isaiah 5:11-14. In Luke 9:60 One of the disciples of Jesus, sought permission from Him, to go and bury the father; Jesus said to this disciple, “let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God” (5) Unbiblical doctrine of canonization of Saints: This is a man-made doctrine originated by this religious system. This wrong doctrine officially proclaims someone as a ‘saint’ after death. It is equivalent to deifying the dead. It is a subtle plan of the devil to deify human beings, thereby making followers to pray through them to God, instead of praying in the name of Jesus Christ. And this contradicts the truth of the word of God as spoken by Jesus in John 14:14, that says “If ye shall ask anything in MY NAME, I will do it”. All who are sanctified in Christ Jesus are called saints of God, as written in I Corinthians 1:2, Philippians 1:1, Ephesians 1:19. In Philipians.4:21, Paul, in his epistle to the Philippian Church, wrote, Salute EVERY SAINT IN CHRIST JESUS, and in verse 22, he wrote “ALL THE SAINTS SALUTE YOU, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s household”. Anyone who is not sanctified in Christ Jesus is not a saint, and it is only the truth that can sanctify any Christian, and indeed make him a saint while still alive, as

With

REV. OLU GEORGE written in John17:17, “Sanctify them through the Truth: thy word is truth.” (6) Confessionals: Mystery, Babylon the Great, Mother of harlots and abominations of the earth, teaches, as part of the doctrines this religious institution, that confession be made to priests and this contradicts the truth of God’s word that says confession be made only to the Lord Jesus, who alone has the absolute power to forgive sins on earth, as written in Mark 2:10 “But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins…” King David said in Psalm 32:5 “I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said I will

confess my transgressions unto the LORD, and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.” In Proverbs 20:9, it is written “Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?” The priest, to whom confession is made, is not pure from sin. In Romans 3:23 it is written “for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God”. It is only Jesus who is without sin, that can forgive all sins, and it is to Him only we should make our confession for He has promised in I John1:9, that He is just and faithful to forgive us our sins, if we confess them to Him our High Priest (Hebrews 2:17). COURTESY: REV. OLU GEORGE CHRISTIAN GOSPEL CHURCH (The Truth Centre)

“In the book of Acts 8:13,21, it is recorded that Simon, the sorcerer( a wizard ) believed the gospel, and was baptized by immersion in water, yet Apostle Peter told him, that he had neither part nor lot in the kingdom of God, because his heart was not right in the sight of God, and that he needed to repent of his wickedness, even though he had been baptized by immersion in water.”

“Modern Babylon teaches that the ‘dying’ must be anointed with oil to cleanse them of their sins, so that they can be made ready for heaven. This is a dangerous doctrine of the devil, to give followers false hope in contradiction of the truth in I John1:7, that only the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin.”

Reflection Unity Of The Trinity: CHRISTIANS all over the world are celebrating the feast of the Most Holy Trinity on Sunday, the 15th day of June 2014. This feast is the highest feast amongst the followers of Christ. It is this feast that distinguishes Christianity from other world religions. Christians are not polytheist; they do not worship more than one god. They are not absolute monotheist, like the Muslims and Jews who strictly believes in an Absolute One God. Christians believe in the Trinitarian God, that is three Persons in One God. The three Persons that make up the Trinity are not three different gods they are rather One and the same God, with one nature. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes the Trinity as the central mystery of faith: “The mystery of the Most Holy Trinity is central mystery of Christian faith and life. It is the mystery of God in himself. It is therefore the source of all the other mysteries of faith, the light that enlightens them. It is the most fundamental and essential teaching in the “hierarchy of the truths of faith.” The whole history of salvation is identical with the history of the way and the means by which the one true God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, reveals himself to men and reconciles and unites with himself those who turn away from sin” (CCC, 234). The Trinitarian doctrine is therefore the most essential doctrine in Christianity. Without the Trinity there will be no Christianity. Our Lord Jesus Christ came into this world primarily to reveal the mystery of the Trinity. In his priestly prayer he said, “I have manifested thy name to the men whom thou gavest me out of the world” (John 17:6). Jesus came to make the Father known and loved by the world. Philip, one of the Apostles of Jesus once told him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? He who

has seen me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father in me; or else believe me for the sake of the works themselves” (John 14:8-11). To have seen Jesus is to have seen the Father. He is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15). He is the mirror through which we see God. Jesus is the perfect revelation of God. Apart from God the Father, our Lord Jesus Christ also revealed the mystery of the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity. Jesus told his followers, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, to be with you forever” (John 14:15-17). The Holy Spirit, according to our Lord Jesus Christ, proceeds from the Father: “When the Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me” (John 15:26). The Holy Spirit is not a separate entity. He proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son He is worshipped and glorified. Who is this Jesus Christ and what is his relationship with God, the Father? Jesus is the Beloved Son of God. John describes him as the only begotten Son of the Father (John 3:16). During the transfiguration the Father revealed him as his beloved and chosen Son: “This is my beloved Son, listen to him” (Luke 9:35). Jesus Christ is not just a prophet; He is the only begotten Son of God. He is the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. Unity of the Trinity: Unity is the essence of the Trinity. God, the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit are perfectly united as One and the same God. They are indivisible. According to the Catechism of the Catholic

With REV. FR. JOHN DAMIAN ADIZIE PHONE: 08076635886

Unity In Diversity

Church, “The Trinity is One. We do not confess three Gods, but one God in three persons, the consubstantial Trinity.” The divine persons do not share the one divinity among themselves but each of them is God whole and entire (CCC 253). The Three Divine Persons are one and inseparable. Unity in Diversity Unity is the essence of Christianity. The Christian Church is a family of believers who are united

also the world will know that we belong to the Triune God. This unity that Jesus prayed for was demonstrated in the lives of the early apostles after the ascension of Christ. In Acts of the Apostles 1:12-14, after Jesus was taken up to heaven the apostles did not scatter. Rather, they went back to Jerusalem and remained together in the upper room as Jesus instructed them: “All these with one accord devoted themselves to prayer,

challenge the world is facing today is the problem of disunity, divide and rule. Here in Nigeria there are so many factions that are threatening the unity of the nation. The political parties have turned the nation apart. Law makers have turned themselves into lawbreakers and their chambers into wrestling ring. The scandal that is happening in the River State and Edo State House of Assembly is a clear proof that our law makers are not

Father, Pope Francis frowns at the gap that exists between the rich and the poor: “The worship of the ancient golden calf has returned in a new and ruthless guise in the idolatry of money and the dictatorship of an impersonal economy lacking a truly human purpose. The worldwide crisis affecting finance and the economy lays bare their imbalances and, above all, their lack of real concern for

together for a common goal, namely heaven. In the gospel of John 17:20-26 our Lord Jesus Christ prayed for the unity of his followers: “Holy Father, I pray for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” How do we know a true Christian? By their love and unity we shall know them! Jesus prayed perfect unity. It is through this unity that the world will know that we truly belong to Christ. Through this unity

together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.” This fulfils Jesus’ prayer for his followers, “That they may be one!” This unity was further strengthened after Pentecost. “Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, they sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need” (Acts 2:4445). The early disciples were living a communal life. They were united and they shared their belongings in common. This value of unity and sharing is lacking in our world today. The greatest

united. If those who are supposed to legislate for peace and unity are not united who will be united? A nation where there is unfathomable gap between the poor and the rich is not a united nation. A nation where people are not treated with respect and equity is not a united nation. A nation where political leaders are not united amongst themselves is not a united nation. A nation where Church leaders are now serving the interest of the rich because of their wealth is not a united nation. This is not the vision of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit anointed Jesus to preach the gospel to the poor (Luke 4:18). A nation where Church leaders recognize the rich more than the poor is not a united nation. A nation where people value money more than their fellow human beings is not a united nation. The Holy

human beings; man is reduced to one of his needs alone: consumption.” In our capitalist world, people no longer worship the Trinitarian God; they worship money, which is the root of all evil. The Holy Father enjoin Political leaders and even Church leaders to bridge the gap between the poor and the rich by taking the essential needs of the poor into consideration: “It is vital that government leaders, Church leaders and financial leaders take heed and broaden their horizons, working to ensure that all citizens have dignified work, education and healthcare.” This is exactly what our Lord Jesus Christ stood for. This is also the vision of the Most Holy Trinity. If Nigeria and all the nations in the world must remain united, then they must take the issue of equality and respect for human dignity seriously. Happy feast of the Trinity!

“The Holy Spirit, according to our Lord Jesus Christ, proceeds from the Father: “When the Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me” (John 15:26). The Holy Spirit is not a separate entity. He proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son He is worshipped and glorified.”

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2014 FIFA World Cup

How World Cup Superstitions Can Benefit Performance

Dry Manaus Pitch Causes Concern

VISIBLY dry, white stripes across the grass pitch at the Amazonian World Cup stadium have heightened concerns about the playing surface ahead of Saturday’s key Group D match between Italy and England. “Frankly, Manaus is in bad shape,” said Carlos Botella, head groundsman for the Royal Verd company which is responsible for the turf at Manaus and six other World Cup stadiums. “We’ve started to implement an emergency plan to try to save the field and improve it as much as possible, but I don’t think it’ll be in good condition” by the weekend. Measures to improve the dry, patchy surface were in full swing on Wednesday. “Yesterday we put fertiliser, and we’ll increase the fertilising process with biostimulants and seeds to try to get the most out of the grass,” Botella said. FIFA issued a statement saying its experts were satisfied that the Manaus pitch will be ready for training and matches and that “mitigation procedures” have been in place for three months. Royal Verd installed the drainage system and planted the grass at the $229 million stadium and has worked with local contractors to maintain the surface. The pitch at Manaus is dry ahead of England’s first match against Italy. Botella said preparing the pitch has been difficult because of access issues, recent rain and problems with algae when the grass was laid. The northwest Brazil city is in the heart of the world’s biggest rainforest and reachable only by plane or boat. “The maintenance has been complicated in Manaus. There’re no roads, all the machinery and materials had to be brought by ship,” he said. “There’s no fertiliser, no seeds. Everything has been complicated.” The Spain-based Royal Verd is working on World Cup stadiums in Rio, Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Salvador and Recife as well as training venues for 10 national teams during the tournament. Manaus has been in the headlines since it was selected as a World Cup host, attracting criticism initially in Brazil because of its distance from the country’s other major venues. Before the World Cup draw last year, England coach Roy Hodgson upset local officials with remarks about it being “the place ideally to avoid” because

of the humid and steamy weather. Construction of the 42,000capacity Arena da Amazonia, with its lattice roof of diamond panels that look like snake scales, was marked by three workers’ deaths. Last month, the Manaus city government declared a state of emergency as the waters of an Amazon River tributary swelled, but said it was a preventative measure to assure swift access to emergency resources and didn’t expect it to flood.

KISSING tattoos, adjusting bootlaces and touching the crossbar after every goal are just some of the bizarre routines and rituals that will be on show in Brazil during this World Cup. or right foot first depending Despite intense training on whether he’s playing regimes and carefully home or away – so in Brazil planned strategies, many it will be right foot first every stars still focus on game. superstitions just before a Cesc Fabregas will kiss the match, looking to repeat ring given to him by his actions that ‘delivered’ girlfriend four times, Luis success in the past even if Suarez will kiss tattoos of his they cannot see how they had son and daughter’s names, an influence. Iker Casillas will touch the When Leighton Baines crossbar every time his team walks onto the pitch in scores and Kolo Toure will Manaus for England’s clash always have to be last on the with Italy on Saturday, for pitch. instance, he will go to the top Cristiano Ronaldo will of the D, with the goal to his have had to sit at the back of left, and undo and re-tie his the plane on the way to laces. Brazil, and reportedly must “It does my head in,” he have a haircut before every once admitted to the match. He also must be first Liverpool Echo. But he is far to go onto the pitch when from alone. with the national side – but England team-mate Phil last when playing for Real Jones puts his sock on the left

Sepp Blatter - FIFA President

Madrid. “Superstitions are often used to reduce anxiety by creating an illusion of control,” says Dr Eddie O’Connor, from the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. “It lowers nervousness and makes the athlete feel like they’re doing something to help performance.” Sporting superstitions often relate to wearing certain ‘lucky’ items of clothing or kit. John Terry wore the same shin pads for 10 years, England manager Don Revie always wore the same blue suit on matchdays, F1 driver David Coulthard wore the same blue underpants for every race and Tiger Woods will always wear red on the final day of a golf tournament. NBA star Jason Eugene Terry used to wear five pairs of socks and sleep in the shorts of the next day’s opposing team the night before a game, while MLB star Jason Giambi would put on a golden thong when struggling for home runs. Habitual activities are, however, where the most bizarre rituals appear. Rio Ferdinand would always jump the line when walking onto the pitch while Paul Ince never wore his shirt until he came out of the changing room. Tennis star Rafael Nadal will line all his water bottles up to face the court – leading opponent Marinko Matosevic to kick them over on purpose in last year’s Monte Carlo Masters – while Goran Ivanisevic watched the Teletubbies every morning when he won Wimbledon in 2001. Cricketer Neil McKenzie had to put down all the

changing room toilet seats before batting and always taped his bat to the ceiling because he once scored a century after his team-mates did it as a practical joke. Strangest is baseball star Kevin Rhomberg, who had to touch anyone who touched him – leading to a game once being halted because opposing players would not leave him alone. The problem comes when things happen that are out of a player’s control, but there is actually scientific proof that as long as these rituals keep being carried out, they can actually have a positive effect on players. An analysis in Germany, reported in ‘Psychological Science’ journal, concluded having a lucky charm had actually made participants perform better while a study in the US found the more important and uncertain the game, the higher the reliance on ‘ritual commitment’. “If a superstition allows an athlete to relax because they properly executed their pregame ritual, they really might perform better for several reasons psychologically,” explains Dr Stephen Walker of PodiumSportsJournal.com. “If that relaxation reduces muscle tension, enables the athlete to focus better, to visually track the ball better, then indeed the superstition can potentially help an athletic performance.” Indeed, superstitions have actually played a part in previous World Cup successes, with Frenchman Laurent Blanc kissing Fabien Barthez’s head before every game in 1998 and Italy’s Gennaro Gattuso packing his bags to go home before every game when they won in 2006. So where there is superstition, there is hope...

missing his wife and children while he was away with the England squad, yet his focus in on the Group D clash with Italy this weekend as he suggested a high tempo England display will be crucial to their hopes

of success. “The Italian defenders put themselves in good positions but, if I’m being honest, when you play a high tempo they’ve struggled,” added the Manchester United forward.

which are currently at 1.4 billion dollars to be prepared for instance a cancelled World Cup. “The future is bright because of very strong finances,” said FIFA Secretary General, Jerome Valcke. as the budget has grown 10 fold from the 257 million dollars in 1995-1998. Kottner also reiterated that

the 209 FIFA members would receive 200 million dollars from the Brazil World Cup income. FIFA makes 4.5 billion dollars overall from the tournament starting on Thursday, spending it also for operating costs, World Cup bonuses for teams, 100 million dollars for the hosts and money for development programmes.

Ronaldo Relishes Individual Accolades -Rooney WAYNE Rooney has claimed that team success is more important to him than individual accolades, in comments that may be viewed as gentle criticism of his former Manchester United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo. Rooney was speaking at a news conference in Brazil as England countdown to their first match of the World Cup finals against Italy in Manaus on Saturday, as the 28-year-old striker responded to questions over what motivates him to succeed. “I’m not a player who needs [to win] individual awards like Cristiano Ronaldo,” said Rooney, as he compared himself to the Portugal star. “He has to have that and you admire him for having that.” “I’m more about winning things as a team. You can see

how he is. He wants his moments. It’s more important for me to win trophies as a team.” “I’ve won PFA Player of the Year, which is nowhere near as good as winning a trophy with Manchester United. I’ve not won anything this year, so hopefully I can do that now.” Rooney went on to suggest he was convinced that he would shine in this summer’s World Cup finals, after struggling to make his mark in the last two editions of FIFA’s marquee international tournament. “I feel great, better than I have done for years,” he continued. “I’m ready for this tournament. If know if I can play my game, I’ll do well.” “I’ve always been hard on myself. I’ve maybe put myself under too much pressure before. Maybe the media have put me under a lot of pressure and I’ve tried to respond to that.”

“This time I haven’t and I’m not going to. I’m going to enjoy it. I didn’t enjoy the last ones. I’m going to make sure I take positive memories from this one.” Rooney admitted he was

FIFA Budgets $5b For 2015-2018 FIFA has a budget of five billion dollars for the period 2015-2018, its Finance Director, Markus Kottner has told the congress of the ruling football body. Kottner said 2.3 billion dollars would come from marketing and ticketing and 2.7 billion dollars from television rights income. He expects a surplus of 100 million dollars before tax and to break even after tax in 2018. As a result, there will likely be no rise in FIFA’s reserves

Brazil 2014 World Cup Silva Worried About Eto’o Threat THE hosts opened the tournament yesterday against Croatia - and would not face Cameroon until their final game in Group A on June 23 but Silva is already concerned about taking on the four-time African Player of the Year, even though he is past his best at the age of 33. Eto’o is preparing for his fourth World Cup, and Paris Saint-Germain skipper Silva knows the forward remains a tough opponent. “He is the striker who most worries me,” said Silva, who faced the Cameroonian in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League last season. “He is an experienced player and a handful to deal with. “In the Champions League he wasn’t 100 per cent but he made his presence felt. “He has impressive technical abilities and is lethal in the box.” Eto’o’s countryman Stephane Mbia, meanwhile, hopes this year’s finals can help to banish the memories of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, when Cameroon lost every game and crashed out at the group stage. “Four years ago we were catastrophic,” he said. “The mood in the camp wasn’t good, t

Spain

Messi More Argentinian Than Maradona

Germany

Keshi Debunks Echejile Must Stay Report

SUPER Eagles Coach Stephen Keshi has debunked reports that he insisted on keeping injured Elderson Echejile in camp in spite of medical advise. pained that Echejile would The team’s Media Officer, not be part of the team to the Ben Alaiya, said in a World Cup. statement on Wednesday It said that the player who that Keshi was said to be was a key member of the

Stephen Keshi

squad would be missing out after putting in so much. The statement said that Keshi noted that there was nothing he could do to hasten the healing process of the player. “We have spoken to the medical team and the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) and we have agreed. “So, I was a bit shocked when I got a call from some of my friends back home that I insisted on an injured player. “It’s a fallacy because I never spoke to anyone about Echejile,” it quoted Keshi as saying. The statement added that Ejike Uzoenyi, the Rangers International winger who was named by Keshi as Echejile’s replacement would arrive in Brazil by 4 p.m. local time in Nigeria.

It also quoted Team Administrator, Dayo Enebi Achor, as saying that all logistics to receive and reintegrate him into the team quickly had been made. “I guess when he arrives and start training Nigerians will finally come to the reality that we will miss Echejile in this World Cup,” it said.

FORMER Argentina idol Diego Maradona praised his compatriot Lionel Messi on Wednesday and got excited at the prospect of Argentina winning the World Cup. “To beat Brazil in the final, in their own country, would be an orgasm,’’ the controversial 1980s star told Buenos Aires sports daily Ole. When Maradona was told that Pele - his historic Brazilian arch rival - had said that Messi had a “Brazilian style’’, the 1986 World Cup winner shouted: “Pele should go back in the museum! Messi is Argentinian! In fact, he’s even more Argentinian than I am!’’ These words from Maradona will come as a timely support for Messi, who has been criticised in Argentina recently for playing better for Barcelona than for his national team - and even for not singing the national anthem before matches. “The truth is that I have

not spoken to Lio (Messi) for a while. I’d really like to now. I’d like to tell him to take things easy, not to listen to the idiots. There are a lot of them, unfortunately,’’ said Maradona. “I see Messi well. I think it was good for him to have a proper rest (from November to February, due to injury) because he had gone four years without hardly missing a match. “We are looking good in attack but I am a bit worried about the defence, to be honest.’’ He then compared the current Argentina to the one he himself guided to the quarter-finals in 2010. “They have more experience now, and that is very important in the World Cup.’’ Finally, Maradona insisted that Messi was a better player than Brazil ace Neymar, saying: “The distance between Messi is the same as the one between Maradona and Pele.’

England and Uruguay in Group D. “Both Bryan Oviedo, Alvaro Saborio and me, we are 100 percent with the group,” Mora was quoted as saying on the Costa Rican Football Federation’s official website. “We give them the

every game like a final... because many of us wanted to be there and the opportunity is for them to defend the national colours.” Costa Rica kick off their World Cup campaign against Uruguay at the Estadio Castelao in Fortaleza on Saturday.

Mora Urges Costa Rica To MORA was cruelly that nothing is to Fight message ruled out of the World Cup be saved, that we play in Brazil after suffering a stress fracture in his right heel during training on Tuesday. However, that has not stopped the Deportivo Saprissa player from being vocal, telling Jorge Luis Pinto’s men to make the country proud when they come up against heavyweights Italy,

Evaluate Us In The World Cup THE African nation takes on the Group F minnows in their curtain raiser in Brazil on Monday, and are expected to dispatch of their opponents despite their underwhelming lead-in. Nigeria twice came from behind to draw with Scotland 2-2, were well held by Greece 0-0 and lost to the United States 2-1 in their warm-up friendlies. But Keshi said he was not bothered by the scorelines in their recent matches. “We are in Brazil for serious business,” Keshi said. “Friendlies are meant to serve as rehearsals; the team is different from competitive matches. “This is not an excuse for our performance in the matches, but seriously speaking, the results do not mean anything to me, evaluate us in the World Cup.” Keshi said Argentine superstar Lionel Messi was not on their agenda until they had negotiated group games with Iran and BosniaHerzegovina. “We have two games before thinking about Messi,” he said. “We will try to do better than we did in 2010 in South Africa but we’ll see what happens when the World Cup starts.” Nigeria have not escaped the group stage at a World Cup since they topped their pool at France 1998, going winless in South Korea/Japan in 2002 and South Africa ’10.

Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup

Crisis Over FIFA $8m

Minister Cautions Super Eagles, NFA THE Sports Minister, Tamuno Danagogo, has intervened in the crisis between the Super Eagles and the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) over the eight million dollars allocation to the association by FIFA. This is contained in a statement by Mr Taye Akinyemi, the Deputy Director Press, National Sports commission (NSC) on Wednesday in Abuja. It said the minister met with Maigari in Sao Paulo, Brazil and urged

Churches, Schools Pray For Super Eagles SOME churches and schools in Nigeria have embarked on fasting and prayer sessions to ensure that the Super Eagles lift the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. “As I am talking to you, we The Coordinator of the programme, Rev. Udo have been able to mobilise Nwoke, told newsmen that churches and some other the prayer session was being prayer groups and schools to facilitated under the “Nigeria fast and pray over this. “By revelation, we have win World Cup International Intercessory Praying over 10,000 churches from all Network”. denominations and few He said the prayer session schools praying and fasting was being anchored from along this line nationwide. “With this prayer session, Lagos.

Police Increase Surveillance THE Police in Enugu on On Viewing Centres yesterday, said it had increased surveillance on viewing centres across the state, following the start of the Brazil 2014 World Cup. DSP Ebere Amaraizu, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), told newsmen in Enugu. He said that the increased surveillance was to discourage any acts of terrorism or violence that might erupt in the course of the Mundial. Amaraizu noted that the security challenges in the country had made it necessary to partner with operators of viewing centres, to ensure the safety of football fans. “Enugu has always been peaceful, but we want operators of the centres, to be security conscious and know

the type of people they admit into such centres. “We had as a prelude, distributed our counterterrorism pamphlets containing security tips to viewing centres, churches and other important public places,” he said. Amaraizu said that the issue of security of such centres was not the exclusive preserve of the operators and the police. “Even the fans should be at alert to determine the type of people sitting close to them. “People of questionable character should be reported to us promptly through our phone number: 08032003702.

“We have already stationed our patrol teams in some strategic locations with a view to counter and discourage any act of violence. “The state is safe and will continue to be safe for people,” Amaraizu said.

we are clinching the World Cup in Brazil for the first time in the history of Africa and Nigeria come July 13. That’s our belief and prophetic utterances,’’ Nwoke said. He urged Nigerians not to doubt the effectiveness of the prayer as it had been revealed to him and would surely be a reality. Nwoke noted that the country was on the threshold of making another history after their prayer that ensured the country’s Olympic team won the Atlanta, U.S, Olympic gold in 1996. “We prayed for the Nigeria Olympic football team that won gold at Atlanta ’96 Olympics. “It was when Jim Nwobodo was the Minister of Sports. We had a parley with him and I told him that come

the final day of the Olympics, that we are coming out as number one. “That was a history breaking record in the whole of Africa. “It was not just the gold we were targeting; we were also targeting leading such a prayer for the nation over what we were going through then,’’ he added. He noted that just like it happened before, winning the World Cup would be an opportunity to celebrate and take Nigeria’s challenges to God. Nwoke noted that prominent members of the society, including the “Gowon Group’’ and “Nigeria Prays’’ have joined in the prayer session. He said the group had written President Goodluck Jonathan and some State Houses of Assembly to join the mission.

him to reach an agreement with the players in order to boost their morale at the tournament. “The welfare of the team should be paramount during the tournament and if we do not treat them well and make them happy, they may just go into the tournament and perform badly. “And they are the reasons why Nigeria is participating in the tournament, so, we should do everything within our powers to do our best for the team. “But I will personally appeal to the players to put the interests of the nation first during the tournament,’’ the statement quoted Danagogo as saying. Super Eagles had protested to Maigari, demanding their own share of the money from FIFA. The Super Eagles have been drawn in Group F with Iran, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Argentina for the 2014 World Cup. Their first match at the tournament is against Iran on June 16 before facing BosniaHerzegovina and Argentina in the second and third match on June 20 and June 25 respectively.

Lawmaker Seeks Support For Super A member of House of pre-World Cup friendly “We have given Keshi a Representatives, Rep. matches as the basis for Eagles’ job, let’s allow him do his Ogbonna Nwuke, said on assessment adding that it Wednesday the Super Eagles had ‘great potential’ as contenders for the 2014 World Cup. Nwuke, (APC- Etche/ Omuma), told newsmen in Port Harcourt that the national team needed Nigerians’ support to excel at the Mundial. He said it would be wrong to write off the team using the

would be too early to assess the chances of the team. “For me, it is too early in the day to write off Nigeria. “We are in a group with Iran, Bosnia and Argentina. And my feeling clearly is that Nigeria and Argentina will go through that group. We can talk about the rest later. “I think, it is the business of a coach to choose his

players that will play according to instructions and I think the coach has done what he should do. “But, I think that once you have got a technical adviser or a coach, the mandate of who to play, how to play the person is his own. “If he wins, he takes the glory, if he fails to deliver, he takes the blame.

job.’’ The lawmaker urged Nigerians not to put the team under too much pressure as they would take every game seriously. Nwuke expressed optimism about the team’s good outing, saying that indigenous coaches could spring surprises during the competition.

CMYK

“THE country is drifting towards a political, economic and social collapse, through insensitivity and ineptitude of an insane political class unwilling to change. The politicians are selfish, unpatariotic and do not care a hoot about the masses. They have squandered our resources through nepotism, tribalism etc” – Quoted in WHERE WE ARE (Page 137). About three weeks ago, a friend and a neighbour got a rude shock from some foot soldiers working for a contractor engaged by Edo State Ministry of Transport. Readers will immediately want to know what the rude shock was. On that particular day, (a Friday) at about 3.26p.m. two young men walked across the road and came to meet him in a mechanic workshop, where he had gone to fix his water pump along Textile Mill Road, in Benin City. As a taxi driver looking for money to take home to his family, my friend listened to them. The boys asked him to follow them to the premises of Egor Local Government Council near Edaiken market to pick a bad engine to another location. After they had bargained and settled the price for N2,000, my friend took them to the premises of Egor Local Government. When they got to the premises of the Council, the two young men sighted other two men and they screemed: “We have completed our assignment”, and immediately they vacated the scene. My friend had been deceived. The taxi driver was shocked to his bone marrows, when the new men that came out to meet him said they were working for Edo State Ministry of Transport, as Vehicles Inspection Officers (VIO). At that time, it was 3.46 p.m., the premises of the Egor

Local Government Council was almost deserted as virtually all the workers had left for their different destinations because it was Friday. To cut the long story short, my friend (the taxi driver) was asked to

to be contractors working for the Edo State Ministry of Transport. Now, look at the uncivilized and brazen manner in which the taxi driver was tricked into the premises of Egor Local Government Area, in a

Officers. For crying out aloud, we indeed live in a democratic setting, and the government in place at Osadebay Avenue, Government Reservation Area, was universally voted into power by the people of Edo

Decamping For Selfish Reasons

replace the incomplete parts in his taxi cab, by the socalledVIO’s after which he would pay the sum of N30,000, for “Road Worthiness” by the same Edo State Ministry of Transport, via the Vehicles Inspection Officers department, which had not expired as at the time the two boys tricked him into the premises of Egor Local Government Council. My friend’s taxi cab slept in the premises of the council until the following Monday when other stakeholders intervened before his car was released to him, but not without coughing out the sum of N3,000 (Three thousand naira), which was paid into an alleged account belonging to the Edo State Government. Now, the point here is that, an average motorist in the city of Benin is being harassed daily for committing one traffic offence or the other or driving vehicle without complete documents or functioning parts. Driving around the city of Benin has more or less become horrorful because of the activities of one uniformed chap or the other claiming

democratic setting? It is in the light of the above that I commend the State Government for coming out with a Special announcement few days ago, banning such

State. Now, the truth must be said without minding whose ox is gored that, for complete eight years, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) wasted and looted the resources of Edo State,

doubting Thomases wrong via, his Urban Renewal activities, Storm Water Control projects, massive road reconstruction and other pro-active measures which have taken the state

while the masses were worse for it. With six years in the saddle, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has proved the

from the abyss of waste, neglect and backwardness. Truth must be said that the comrade governor is not perfect; truth must also be

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu “unauthorised uniformed contractors” constituting naked nuisance within the metropolis, in the name of Vehicle Inspection

“Given the recent happenings in Edo State, where some politicians in the fold of All Progressives Congress (APC) have left for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing several reasons for decamping, I think we should not be deceived. A typical Nigerian politician (not all of them) is simply after his pockets and stomach.”

said that most members of the present Edo State House of Assembly, would never have been elected or re-elected as law makers if not for the incredible magic which Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has unleashed positively in Edo State since he became Governor in 2008. Given the recent happenings in Edo State, where some politicians in the fold of All Progressives Congress (APC) have left for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing several reasons for decamping, I think we should not be deceived. A typical Nigerian politician (not all of them) is simply after his pockets and stomach. Most of the present decampees featured prominently in the PDP administration that ruled for Eight years without any meaningful achievements in Edo State. The fact of the matter is that at this point in time, we should never allow any politician to deceive us. Instead, we should look out for men of all seasons; cerebral, competent, focused and people oriented characters that will devote their time to the cause of the people and development of the society. We must ignore fair weather politicians, who are after their immediate and personal interest/pockets. The recent action of political decampees in Edo State is selfish, irrational and myopic; decampees my foot. Nowinta, wrote WHERE WE ARE

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