THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
The Nigerian
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vol. 38 NO.333 •WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 20 13 . N 100.00 ECONOMY Page 18
Achieving economy growth via cashless policy
Show love to all, Muslim Ummah By INNOCENT OMOAKA/ BEAUTY OBAMWONYI/ JENNIFER EIGBOJIE
BENIN CITY- The Muslim Ummah have been called upon to embrace love and
harmony among all, irrespective of religion, creed and race as they celebrate the feast of sacrifice, Eidul-el-kabir. Speaking with The NIGERIAN OBSERVER, yesterday at the eid prayer
told
ground Ustaaz Erese Bashir Mohammad Habib called on the Muslim faithful to live exemplary lives and follow the teachings of
the Islamic faith. In a sermon during the prayers to commemorate the celebration of Eid-el Kabir at the Ikpoba Slope prayer ground in Benin City, Erese stressed the Continues on page 2
Unemployment
NEW HORIZON
Pages 20 & 24
Teachings of the Holy Quaran (V)
Edo to partner foreign investors By ADAMS OYIBOKE
BENIN CITY - Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has promised that the state government would partner with foreign investors towards addressing unemployment problem in the state. He disclosed this yesterday when Muslim faithful visited him in Government House, Benin as part of activities to mark this year’s Eld-elKabair festival. Governor Oshiomhole, represented by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Julius Ihonvbere said, “Government has concluded arrangement
cushion the effects on the ban on Motor-bike (Okada) in the three metropditan local governments areas within Benin City.
- Oshiomhole
According to him, “Government has directed those bike-
cars that government would provide soon. He stated that riders to form co- unemployment was not operative society to the reason most youths Continues on page 2 enable them buy the taxi
to expand the private sector to help reduce unemployment in the state. “Some delegations of foreign investors are ready to visit Edo State for industrial partnership with the State Government”, he said. Government Oshiomhole said discussions are on-going to find palliatives to
Sacrifice for peace,
ABUJA - The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, yesterday called on Muslim faithful to consistently pray for peace and sustainability of the country. He made the call while addressing hundreds of Muslims after the Eid-elKabir prayers at the Central Mosque in Kano. “Muslims should live by the dictates of their religion and support the less privileged among them so as to earn God’s blessings,’’ Bayero said. He prayed for the safe return of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi
Archbishop urges Muslims “I want to enjoin Muslims
Arabia after a successful completion of the Hajj. Also, the Chief Imam of the Islamic Youth League Mosque in Abuja, Ustaz Sa’ad Suleiman, called on Muslims to use the Eid-el-Kabir to pray for Nigeria’s peace and unity. Suleiman made the call at Area One in Abuja shortly after leading the Eid prayers, saying there was the need for Muslims to pray and champion the need for peace and nation-building.
TIP BIT
“The hands that are always engaged in down-loading from the treasury to the pocket would hardly have the time to be on deck for the job of nation-building.” - Kingsley Ogbeide-Ihama
to use this period to supplicate for the peace and development of our dear country Nigeria,” he said. Chairman, Islamic Youth League (IYL) Mosque, Alhaji Aliyu Akano, had called on Muslims to emulate the exemplary Continues on page 2
2013 EID-EL-KABIR CELEBRATION: Secretary to Edo State Government, Professor Julius Ihonvbere (left) who represented Governor Adams Oshiomhole presenting a gift to the Chief Imam of Benin Central Mosque, Alhaji Abdul-Fatai Enabulele represented by Ustaaz Erese Bashir Muhammed when the Muslim faithful visited Government House on the occasion of the 2013 Eid-el-Kabir celebration. Photo: CHARITY OZIGBO-ESERE.
Sultan urges striking ASUU, others to return to work
ZARIA (KADUNA STATE)- The Emir of Zaria in Kaduna State, Alhaji Shehu Idris, has described the feud between the federal government and ASUU as a huge setback to education, national growth and development. In his Sallah message to his subjects yesterday, Idris urged both parties to
shift grounds on the issues for the education and growth of future
generations. “The lingering problem has a negative
consequence on the parties must make quick lives of our children and compromises and ensure Continues on page 2 those yet unborn; all
Edo still the safest state
BOSTON - Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Egberanmwen Odubu in an apparent move to allay the fears of visitors to Edo State
- Dep Gov
and boost economic development said during the week that the heart
beat of the nation was still the safest state in the south-south region
of Nigeria. The Deputy Governor told Edo community in Boston, Massachusetts that statistics had shown Continues on page 2
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Continued from page 1 importance of slaughtering a sacrificial animal in order to attract Allah’s blessings in piety. He said “offering sacrificial animal is an emphatic sunnah for every Muslims who has the
News
Show love to all means. This, he said would be highly rewarded by Allah. He said the celebration goes beyond sacrificing the animal
to distributing the meat, flesh and skin to the less privileged members of the society as ordained by the prophet to Ali bin Abi Talib.
the development efforts of Governor Oshiomhole in education, roads and the Benin City Water Store Project. He said the establishment of Information Communication Technology (I.C.T) Agency has tremendously enhanced governance and to a large extent, reduced corruption in the business of governance.
He reminded the Governor on the need to appoint qualified Muslims faithful into the state cabinet as well as boards. Prayers were offered by Bashir Erese for the State Governor, his Cabinet, the Legislature, the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa, the DeputyGovernor, Dr. Pius. E. Odubu and the Peace and Security of the state.
Edo to partner foreign investors
Continued from page 1
and other men take to Okada riding as source of livelihood, rather laziness, stressing that many were already engaged in one skill or the other. He maintained that the ban had led many of them to go back to their skills even as the ban has reduced the rate of crimes and road accident in Benin City. Calling on Muslims faithful to use the celebration Eld-el-kabir to rededicate themselves to Allah, Governor Oshiomhole called on Nigerians to have sincerity of purpose in their relationship with Allah. His Address, the acting Chief Imma of Benin Central Mosque, Ustaaz Erese Bashir stressed the significance of Eid-el-kabir to Muslims in their service to Allah. He said Eid-el-kabir reminds Muslims of Allah’s mercy and the examplanary step of Ibrahim in his Obedience to sacrifice his son to Allah. Ustaaz Bashir commended
Sacrifice for peace, unity
Continued from page 1 q ualities
of
Prophet
Ibrahim. He said the prophet’s obedience to God’s commandment was what gave rise to the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir by Muslims all over the world. “As Muslims, we must emulate the exemplary life of obedience and dedication of the prophet if we must move forward in life,” Akano said.
The Chief Imam of Ikole in Ekiti, Alhaji Dauda Adewale, urged governments at all levels to ensure that all promises made to Nigerians during election campaigns were fulfilled. He said this during the Eidel-Kabir sermon at the Ikole praying ground, saying the only way to attract blessings from God was to fulfill promises made. Adewale urged Muslims to
Sultan urges striking ASUU, others to Continued from page 1 return to work peace,” he declared. The Emir also renewed his earlier call on both the federal and state governments to expedite action to fulfil the promises of completing the Zaria water project. He also called for the construction of additional road networks in Zaria, Tudun-
Erese charged the faithful to remember and fear Allah each day of their life by detaching themselves from materialism, indecency which corrupt, the souls, quoting from Qur’an 9:9-10. “All faithful should bear in mind that the world and all in it are temporary as every man shall render account of their stay in this life”, he added. He, however, stressed the need for all muslim faithful to be charitable in their daily conduct with family members and their neighbours. According to him the act of charity would eliminate every form of tension and disharmony which has led to the insecurity in the country.
Wada and Sabon-Gari. The monarch pointed out that the roads in those areas were very bad and required urgent attention. The royal father charged his subjects to sustain the prevailing peace in the state to enable the government to execute more projects for a
better society. He also called on the people to redouble their efforts toward active participation in irrigation farming and also cautioned them against selling their farm produce. “You should rather reserve your agricultural yields for future use,” he said.
security, with opportunity to complement each other‘s work. In spite of that and because the state government believes in protecting the lives and property of its citizens, he continued, the administration under Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole has continued to provide material supports, including vehicles to the Police and the State Security Service (SSS) to help position them properly in the fight against crimes. The government, he said was also working with the civil society and other stakeholders to fight crime in the state and therefore called for the cooperation of everyone in that direction. According to him, the state government also bought tents and uniforms for the police in Edo state, saying “our commitment is to continue to deliver safety to the people of Edo State.” On the issue of who succeeds Governor Oshiomhole, Dr. Odubu quickly doused speculation to that effect and redirected the attention of Edo people to the continued development of the state. He reminded the audience
that the government was just over a year into its second term and that as a loyal deputy, he was preoccupied with how best to support the governor to continue to achieve his objectives in the state and better the lives of the people. On the deputy governor’s entourage included the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Bar. Henry Idahagbon, the
“be more prayerful for the country and our leaders, so that God will use them to transform the country’’. The Deputy Chief Imam of Ifeland, Alhaji AbdulSemiu AbdulHamid, urged Muslim faithful to have the fear of God even as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir. Abdulhamid who represented the Chief Imam, Sheik Idris Opeloye, said Muslims should be humble, and stick to their vows to God to love their neighbours. He called on Muslims to keep away from all atrocities, and urged government to be generous in all their endeavours and remember the needy. “All Muslim faithful should remember that they will all give account on the judgment day, and death is inevitable as everybody will taste it,’’ the Deputy Chief Imam said.
Edo still the safest state
Continued from page 1 that the state, “is still the safest in the whole of southsouth”. Dr. Odubu noted, while fielding questions from members of the Edo Community gathered at the reception in his honor that most of the crimes perpetrated in the state was traceable to criminals from neighboring states that use Edo as a transit point for their criminal exploits. The occasion which was hosted by Journalist, Community Activist and Media Consultant, Mr. Emmanuel Okunmwendia attracted people from various sectors of the economy, including community organizers/ leaders, Entrepreneurs, lawyers, doctors and other Edo professionals. Dr. Odubu told the audience that the State government would continue to complement the efforts of the Federal government in the fight against crimes. He said the control of police and other security agencies in Nigeria exclusively rested with the federal government, unlike in the United States with a three-tier security system – city/county police, state police and the federal police, which gives each level of government its own control of
Commissioner for Works, Bar. Osarodion Ogie and the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Bar. Donald Osikhena-Boih. Others were members representing Orhonmwon/ Uhunmwode in the Federal House of Representative and Minority whip, Bar. Samson Osagie, Chief of Staff to Edo State Government House, Bar. Patrick Obahiagbon and the Chief of Staff to the deputy governor, Prince Epken Akenzua.
Onaiyekan urges Nigerians to see Sallah as national celebration ABUJA - John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Catholic ArchBishop of Abuja, yesterday urged all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious affiliations, to see Eid-el-Kabir as a national celebration. Onaiyekan gave the advice when he joined the FCT Muslim community to pay Sallah homage to President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa. Vice-President Namadi Sambo led the Muslim community to the President’s residence. Speaking to State House correspondents, Onaiyekan said Sallah should not be seen as “just a Muslim festival’’ but a national feast that Christians and other religious faith should celebrate. He said he joined the Muslim community in solidarity to pay Sallah homage to the President. “As a Nigerian and, even, as a Christian leader, I am celebrating in solidarity with my Muslim co-countrymen. “As you know, many of us who lived with Muslims have always done this since early childhood. “Every year when I was a child, whenever it is time for
‘Ileya’ (Eid-el Kabir), I know I am going to get food in my father’s house even though my father is a very good Christian. “During Christmas, we carry food to our Muslim friends; that does not make us any less Christians. “This is how Nigeria has grown and should grow in my opinion; and we may even teach the rest of the world the lesson that we can live together in peace despite our differences.’’ The Cardinal, who was dressed in white cassock, said Nigerians must learn to live in peace with each other, irrespective of any religious differences. “You can see how I am dressed now. I am not hiding the fact that I am a Cardinal of the Catholic Church. “That does not stop me from living in peace with others,’’ he said. He enjoined other religious leaders to promote good neighbourliness and preach the message of peace and unity. “If you are truly religious, you must believe that we have one God who is the God and father of all of us,’’ he said. He reiterated that Nigerians must see themselves as brothers and sister.
Fashola urges Nigerians to embrace peace, tolerate one LAGOSGovernor another
Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State yesterday urged Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic and religious differences, to embrace peace and tolerate one another. Fashola made the call at the Obalende praying ground, Ikoyi, Lagos, where he observed the Eid-El-Kabir prayers. The governor, while describing the celebration as a day of thanksgiving, urged Nigerians to toe the line of peace for the stability and progress of the nation. “We must seek forgiveness from God and forgive our neighbours and fellow human beings. “We must pray that the philosophy and ideal of sacrifice to build our society exists. Because, it is only under the atmosphere of peace that we can prosper and bring economic prosperity to our people,” he said.
Also, Alhaji Sheik Akewuusola, the Chief Imam of Badagry, urged Muslim faithful to remain holy and impact the lives of the poor. Akewuusola said this in an interview with newsmen in Badagry, Lagos State. He urged Muslims to be kind hearted and always protect one another. “Muslims should remain holy in all their endeavours and ensure that they protect one another in various ways. “They should be their brother’s keeper and lend a helping hand to the poor. “Givers never lack, and in helping those that are in need, blessings shall be upon them,” the cleric said. At Ijegun area of Lagos, Alhaji Kareem Oseni, the Imam of Fagbile Mosque, Ijegun, advised Nigerians to avoid making statements that could be inimical to the peace, unity and progress of Nigeria.
Edo donates to Muslim community
BENIN CITY- In the spirit of the Eid-el Kabir celebration, Edo State Government has donated various food items, including rams, bags of rice and cartons of vegetable oil to Muslim faithful in the three senatorial districts of the state. State commissioner for Social Development and chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs. Blessing Maigida who made the donations on behalf of the state government in Benin City yesterday urged the muslim faithful to intensify
their prayers for peaceful co-existence and socioeconomic development of the state. She said the items was part of the state government contributions towards ensuring that the muslim faithful have an eventful celebration as well as identify with them on the occasion of the festival. While urging for the equitable distribution of the items, the commissioner expressed the state government love for every citizen of the state, irrespective of political,
religious and ethnic affiliation. She described the state governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as a kind hearted person and a visionary leader and therefore urged the muslim faithful to support his administration at all times, especially through prayers so as to enable administration deliver dividends of democracy. The commissioner also urged them to use the occasion of the sallah to reflect on the need to positively affect the lives of
less privileged members of the society. Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, secretary of the Benin muslim congress, Barrister Muhammed Iduozee appreciated the state government kind gesture, describing it as physical demonstration of a friendly government. Barr. Iduoze noted that the Eid-el-kabir is a feast of sacrifice to commemorate the trial and test of the faith of prophet Ibrahim whom, Allah instructed to sacrifice his only son, Ishmail.
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
News Youth Group Inaugurates Exco By INNOCENT OMOAKA
BENIN CITY – The Edo Youths United for Democracy has inaugurated its executive Officers who were elected to pilot the affairs of the group. The inauguration which held during the maiden meeting of the group in Benin City had Barr. Andrew Emwanta as President, Musa Yahaya, Vice President while Nehikare Emwanta is Secretary General; Other officers inaugurated include, Erhauyi Bright, Treasurer; Osegbona Scoth, Public Relations Officer; Mackin Omorayi, Director of Mobilization and Judith Irabor, Financial Secretary. In his maiden address, Barr. Emwanta decried the disappearance from the scene of most political active youth groups after the governorship election saying it is a dangerous trend for the growth of democracy in Nigeria. He reiterated the objective of the group in fighting
against social ills that have bedeviled the democratic system since the country’s return to democracy in1999. Barr. Emwanta also condemned the high incidence of social ills that have dominated the electoral process, which he said were perpetrated mostly by youths. He noted that the group would contribute its quota towards ensuring that the youths are no longer used in perpetrating evil
Kerosene Consumers Decry Scarcity Of Product By MORRISON HAYBLE
L-R: Mallam Abubakare E.J. Omoregie; Mallam Muhammad Bashir Eresi and Benin Palace chiefs during Sallah visit to the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa in Benin City yesterday. PHOTO: SOLOMON ENAIGBE
Nat’l Conference: OPC
Recommends 6 Months Sitting Period LAGOS - The Odu’a People’s Congress (OPC) has in Lagos suggested that the planned national conference should be convened between February and July 2014. According to the Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, the conference should last six months. Addressing newsmen in Lagos, OPC Founder, Dr Federick Fasehun, said the fallout from the conference should serve as a guidepost for the 2015 general elections.
President Goodluck Jonathan had on October 1 endorsed the national conference and announced the setting up of an Advisory Committee chaired by Senator Femi Okurounmu. The committee had been given six weeks to submit its report. “The current generation of elected public officials will be the last under the current 1999 constitution. “In 2015, elected persons can begin to serve under the new constitution.
Generator Fume, A Silent Killer -Experts LAGOS - A toxicologist and a pathologist have jointly warned Nigerians that the fume from generators was a silent killer. In separate interviews with newsmen in Lagos, they called for adequate public enlightenment on the devastating implication of generator fumes to human health. The toxicologist, Dr Olatunji Ekemode, said that fumes from generators contained carbon monoxide and that inhaling such was toxic to the human body and had been killing ignorant Nigerians. Ekemode, who works at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, said that carbon monoxide was “a dangerous, invisible, odourless and colourless gas which can be deadly’’. He said that generator fume was a silent killers because it would keep accumulating in the body system, especially the lungs. “Generator fumes can be deadly when inhaled, as carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in the
body tissues. “When oxygen is displaced in the body, it prevents blood from carrying out its functions, including transporting oxygen around the body. “This situation can lead to death,” he said. Ekemode called on environmentalists and public health officials to create awareness on the dangers of inhaling generator fumes. Also, Dr Adekunle Soyemi, the pathologist, said that the rising death toll through carbon monoxide poisoning was traceable to the use of generators by most Nigerians, in face of dwindling electricity supply from the PHCN. Soyemi, however, advised the public against running their generators indoors, or in any area where ventilation was poor. He said that most of the recorded deaths from carbon monoxide inhalation were due to the use of generators in badly ventilated environments. “It is always safer to put the generators outside and away from a window, and never in an
enclosed situation. “Never leave a generator too close to the house, unless there is enough ventilation to prevent painful, but cheap deaths,” Soyemi advised.
“This will prevent the existence of a ‘hybrid republic’ in which political officials will show loyalty to two different constitutions,” Fasehun said. According to him, the national conference may be the “last chance’’ that will save the Nigerian federation. “Everyone through their groupings must present his or her own views, aspirations and demands on Nigeria as a nation.’’ Fasehun, however, urged the Advisory Committee to make the conference an allinclusive one for the 371 nationalities in Nigeria. He added: “Not only will
majority of tribes of HausaFulani, Yoruba and Igbo feature in this conference; it must be representatives of all Nigeria’s minority tribes. “Apart from ethnic representations, specific individuals and interest groups should be drafted into the project.” He also suggested that the likes of Prof. Wole Soyinka, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Prof. Pat Utomi, Frank Kokori, and Prof. Dora Akunyili should be brought into the project. “Special interest groups such as labour, youths, women, the physically challenged, aged, traditional rulers, lawyers, the clergy, and ethnic nationalities should also be co-opted,’’ the OPC leader said.
Kerosene consumers in Edo North Senatorial district have decried the scarcity of the product at filling stations in the area. The consumers who alleged sharp practices by the filling stations wherever the product was occasionally dispensed appealed to the relevant authorities to intervene and save them the trouble of buying the products elsewhere at exorbitant prices. The Nigerian OBSERVER however gathered from customers who are mostly women that they were being denied purchase of the product as the filling stations often hiked the pump price to between N 90 and N 110 per liter for those who could afford it as against the official price of N50 per liter. One of the filling station managers in the Auchi who declined his identity when approached by our correspondent dismissed the allegations as untrue, saying that the product was scarcely available for reasons he could not explain, adding that he usually dispense to the public wherever he receives the product. At the AP and Total filling Stations, Auchi, hundreds of anxious prospective buyers besieged the station in apparent desperation to buy the product
Sallah: Passengers Shun Motor Parks KADUNA - Passengers travelling from Kaduna to some Northern parts of the country for the Sallah festival, shunned most official motor parks in search of cheaper means of transportation, newsmen report.
A check at the Kawo motor park shows that in spite of the large number of buses and taxis waiting for passengers, the park was virtually empty of passengers. Malam Sani Yakubu, the
A cross section of Muslim faithful when the Muslim community paid a Sallah visit to Government House, Benin City on the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations yesterday. PHOTO: CHARITY OZIGBO-ESERE
Chairman, Long Distance Buses Union at the park, told newsmen that the drivers and officials were concerned about the development. He attributed it to the general economic hardship facing Nigerians, saying, “most people cannot afford the transport fares”. Yakubu said the officials at the park had to cut down the transport fares to Maiduguri from N4,500 to N3, 800 in order to attract passengers. The situation was however different at the Unguwar Sarki mass transit park, where passengers in their hundreds were waiting for vehicles. The park accommodates transport services run by most state governments in the North. A passenger, Aisha Alfa, waiting for a vehicle to Maiduguri, said most passengers patronise the park because its fares were cheap. She said while passengers pay N3, 800 in other parks, “the fare here is N3,000 to Maiduguri”.
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
News CAN Congratulates ABUJA- The Christian Muslims Association of Nigeria (CAN) has congratulated the Muslim community on the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. The message is contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the President of the Association, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor The statement was signed by Mr. Kenny Ashaka, the CAN president’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs. “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) feels happy with the Muslim ummah on this joyous occasion of the celebration of the Eid-elKabir. “CAN wishes the President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, and indeed, all Muslims a happy celebration.’’ Oritsejafor urged the Muslim ummah to use the
Eid-el -Kabir celebrations to pray for peace, security, good governance and development of the country. According to him, while celebrating Eid-el-Kabir, Nigerians should reflect on the pillars of love and tolerance for which Islam is known. He urged Muslims to shun acts that contradicted the teaching of Islam. “The opportunity of this celebration should be used to seek Islam through its own sources and true representatives,” he said.
LAFIA- Governor Umaru AlMakura of Nasarawa State has inaugurated five newly acquired fire-fighting trucks to boost the fire-fighting capacity of the state’s fire service. Reports say that the governor also inaugurated three refuse evacuation trucks, two towing vans and 32 refuse bins. Al-Makura said that the firefighting trucks would boost the operations of the state’s fire service. He said that the trucks would be deployed to strategic areas that were vulnerable to fire outbreaks,
enjoining the firemen to make judicious use of the facilities. Besides, Al-Makura said that the towing vehicles would be stationed at accident-prone areas, especially the Akwanga-Lafia road. He said that the vehicles would facilitate the prompt removal of broken-down articulated vehicles, which usually obstructed traffic flow in that axis. Al-Makura also said that his government would soon inaugurate three mobile hospitals, which would be
President Goodluck Jonathan with the Chairman, Extractive Industries Transparency Inititive, Mrs. Clare Short, during her visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja recently.
ASUU Embarks On Protest To Sensitise The Public
AWKA- Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, (ASUU), Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka chapter, have embarked on a protest to sensitise the public to the union’s resolve to continue with the ongoing strike. Addressing the public at Awka the chairman of the union, Prof. Ike Odimegwu, noted that there could be dire consequences if the
Federal Government failed to meet its obligation. He said that the argument by government that there was no money was untenable because the government budgeted and spent more on issues that were not as important as education. “There is enough money in the
Al-Makura Inaugurates Fire-Fighting Vehicles
deployed to some accident-prone spots in the state. The governor said that two refuse disposal trucks would be stationed in Karu to facilitate waste-management efforts in the neighbourhood, while one refuse truck would be stationed in Lafia. He also said that the provision of refuse bins would particularly promote hygiene and environmental sanitation in the state. He said that the provision of the utility vehicles and equipment was in line with goals of his administration’s urban renewal programme.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University Akwa, Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU), protesting in Akwa recently.
country to fund education. ‘Currently Nigeria is among the countries that budget the least for education in the entire world and this is unfortunate. ‘But poorer countries like Togo, Niger, Somalia, Liberia are budgeting much more than Nigeria for the education of their citizens. ‘Last week, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar submitted the proposed budget for the Nigerian centenary village in Abuja, N3.2 trillion. “So, we have up to N3.2 trillion to plan a centenary village, but we do not have N400 billion to give to all our children.” Flanked by the zonal coordinator, Nsukka zone, Dr Chidi Osuagwu, Odimegwu, however, said that the union was disposed to dialogue on how to move the nation’s education forward. The dialogue, he said, should
not include sacrificing the very substance of the agreement made with the federal government in 2009 and 2012. According to him, if the already three-month-old strike fails, there will be a number of negative consequences for the Nigerian education sector. “If the strike fails the average student in a federal university will have to pay not less than N200, 000 as school fees and this is not ordinary speculation. ‘If this strike fails, over 80 per cent of Nigerian parents will be unable to fund the education of their children in Nigerian universities. ‘Our universities will continue to turn out unemployable graduates and our students, our graduates, will find it increasingly difficult to get admission outside this country. ‘I am sure that this is not what
Nigerians have bargained for,” he said. While fielding questions from newsmen, the chairman denied insinuations that the decision of the union to embark on the strike was politically motivated. According to him, the 2009 agreement and 2012 memorandum of understanding it signed with the federal government were not politically motivated. “It was not politics when the government drew up the road map to fund the universities education with N100 billion in 2012, N400 billion in 2013, N400 billion in 2014 and N400 billion in 2015.” It was reported that the protesting lecturers carried placards. Some of the placards read: “Save education, join ASUU”, “Nigeria needs quality universities”, “ASUU strike, no going back”, “Kill education kill development” and “FG: Agreement is agreement.”
Nigeria involves the collusion of foreigners and the stolen crude is refined abroad. “EITI can use its mechanisms to help us track down the thieves and those who receive the stolen crude oil,” he said. The president observed that Africa was losing a lot through leakages in the mining and extractive industry. He urged Short and her colleagues at EITI to help to end the exploitation of Africans and African nations by multinational companies engaged in the extraction of the continent’s immense natural resources. The president said that an expanded inter-ministerial committee would be inaugurated next week to ensure greater synergy in NEITI’s investigations. He said that the committee
probity in Nigeria’s oil industry. Jonathan said that the inauguration of the committee was in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to giving the NEITI all necessary support and freedom to discharge its duties, The president commended EITI’s efforts at discouraging exploitation and corruption in extractive industries across the world. He assured Short and her team that Nigeria would continue to strive for even greater openness and transparency in its oil and mining sectors. Short said that EITI had been making effort at ensuring that oil and other mineral resources of countries were well managed and utilised for the benefit of their citizens.
Jonathan Seeks End To Oil would also facilitate the implementation of NEITI’s Theft recommendations for greater
ABUJAPresident Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) to do more to support efforts by the Federal Government to stop the exportation of stolen crude oil from Nigeria. The president made the request when the Chairperson of EITI, Ms. Claire Short, paid him a visit at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He called on EITI to join the Federal Government in working to ensure that refineries that received stolen crude oil from Nigeria were identified and punished. “The efforts of EITI in criminalising ‘blood diamonds’ from African mines have helped in curtailing that illegal business. “I urge you to also support Nigeria as we confront the forces stealing Nigerian crude oil. “The theft of crude oil from
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
South-South Delta By-Election
DPP, LP Call For Cancellation By BETTY IDIALU
Ustaaz Erese Bashir, Muhammad Habib leading other Muslim faithful in prayers at the Ikpoba slope Eid prayer ground to commemorate the Eidul Ad-tta (feast of sacrifice) in Benin City. PHOTO: SOLOMON ENAIGBE
MWAN Advises Women On Regular Cancer Screening UYO - The Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) has called on women to undertake regular cancer screening to save themselves from the consequences of late detection of the disease. The association made the call in Uyo at a news conference on cancer awareness campaign as directed by the World Health
Organisation (WHO). The Geneva-based WHO, had declared October as the month to raise global consciousness on cancer. The President of MWAN, Dr Valerie Obot, said that early detection of cancer “saves life,” adding that breast cancer was manageable if it was detected early.
Omoruyi, A Patriot, Nationalist - Uduaghan By BETTY IDIALU
ASABA - Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has described the late Professor Omo Omoruyi as a patriot and nationalist who had a burning passion for the unity and improvement of democracy in Nigeria. Reacting to the news of the death of the renowned academic, the governor, in a statement by Felix Ofou, his press secretary, said Nigeria will forever remember Professor Omoruyi as an advocate of good governance in the country. Uduaghan said the academic community, Edo State and Nigeria in General will be affected by the painful exit of a man who at great risk to personal safety and love for the common man would always want to speak the truth at all times. “Even while he was on the sick bed when he should be thinking only about his health, he never stopped talking, he was more concerned about deepening democracy and the distribution of the dividends to the grassroots”, he stated. The governor therefore urged all lovers of democracy, including the academia to see
this moment of his death to honour the late Omoruyi by seeking to actualise the values and ethos for which he lived and was willing to sacrifice his live, particularly in service of the nation. He moreover prayed God to grant the family of the deceased, the Edo State Government and people, as well as Nigerians in general, the fortitude to bear the loss, especially at a time when Professor Omoruyi’s voice and wisdom were most needed.
“MWAN uses this medium to once again remind women and the public that cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. “The common cancer that affects men and women includes breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, liver and lung cancers. ‘’According to the Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, in July 2010, developing countries have 80 per cent of global cancer. “The minister said the countries have only five per cent cancer management resources is available and the major cause is lack of awareness. “MWAN is calling for improved early detection of these cancers. “It also passionately appeals to the government and all wellmeaning Nigerians to help establish cancer diagnostic and treatment centres in the six geopolitical zones of the country.’’ Obot said that the risk factors of the disease were high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, a lack of physical activity, tobacco use and alcohol misuse. She advised that nurses and
other middle-cadre health workers, including community health extension workers should be trained on detection and screening for breast and cervical cancers.
ASABA - Disappointed with the bungled Delta Central Senatorial district by-election that held last saturday in Delta State, the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) as well as the Labour Party (LP) in Delta State have both rejected the election, saying it was a complete sham. The parties have also called for cancellation and a fresh election to the seat. The DPP candidate made this call at a press conference held on sunday at Sapele, Delta State. DPP accused the PDP of conniving with security operatives and INEC officials to rob the Urhobo people of their right to elect their senator to represent them at the Senate in Abuja. According to Dafinone, INEC, PDP, NYSC adhoc members all came together to accord victory to the PDP candidate, Chief Emmanuel Aguariawodo, alleging that security forces turned a blind eye to open violence and brutality meted out on members of the DPP during the exercise. “Our agents were openly shot
at and maimed yesterday (Saturday). INEC officials and NYSC ad hoc personnel bluntly refused to go out to conduct the election in several places, government, through it’s agencies, decided the outcome of the election in a clearly premeditated manner. Security personnel openly flogged and beat up our agents and supporters everywhere without justification,” Dafinone alleged. Meanwhile, chairman of Mr. Tony Ezeamaka, while speaking with journalists, said the election process was most unfortunate. He said it was a test case to what INEC would do in 2015, adding that there was no election in Delta Central on Saturday. While describing the exercise as a sham, Ezeamaka said the late arrival of electoral materials at Ewu, Orogun, Okpara and other places where ballot snatching took place, were sadly aided and abetted by INEC, security agents and the PDP-led state government. He alleged that many victims of the violence meted out on agents of the LP were still lying critically on various hospitals in the state.
A cross section of the Muslim Ummah in a prayer session at the Ikpoba slope Eid praying ground, Benin City in commemoration of the Eidul-Ad-tta (feast of sacrifice) celebration. PHOTO: SOLOMON ENAIGBE
Oil Firms Award Scholarships To A/Ibom Students UYO - Three oil companies operating in Eastern Obolo and Mbo Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom, have awarded 221 scholarships to students from the two Local Government Areas. The Community Relations Manager of Afren Energy, Mr. Blessing Okpowo, made the announcement in Uyo on Monday at a ceremony to announce the awards. The three oil firms are Amin International Petroleum Development Company Ltd., Oriental Energy Resources Ltd., their partners, Afren Energy Services Ltd.
Amin and Afren awarded 64 scholarships to students from Eastern Obolo, comprising 50 for undergraduate and 14 for post graduate students, studying in tertiary institutions across the country. Oriental Energy Resources with its Afren Energy Services partner gave students from Mbo communities 157. Okpowo, said the gesture was in line with the companies’ commitment to developing human capacity within their operational areas. He said that Afren Energy
engaged in human capacity building through educational pursuit and skill acquisition programmes for those who might not have the opportunity to go to tertiary institutions. “The scholarship we have given to our students is for 2013 school year. Each beneficiary will receive N100,000. “The gesture can be extended to cover the period each of the students would spend in school. “This depends on favourable reports we receive from the committee on each of the students, based on the submission of their semester’s results to the
committee.” He said that each year, 50 students were selected through a thorough screening exercise by an independent body, usually the Consultancy Department of the University of Uyo. Okpowo advised the beneficiaries to take their studies serious and ensure that their results were promptly sent to the committee handling the programme as poor performing students would be dropped. He thanked the host communities of Eastern Obolo and Mbo areas of the state for providing the companies with the
conducive environment to operate. Speaking at the ceremony, the representative of the Federal Ministry of Environment in Akwa Ibom, Dr Joshua Ndomo, commended the companies for “their steps in the right direction”. He also commended the operators of the oil fields for being environmentally friendly as there had been no reported case of environmental pollution involving them. Okpowo advised the beneficiaries to work hard to ensure that they made good use of the scholarships.
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News
FRSC Boss Advocates Promotion Of Igbo Values OBOSI (ANAMBRA)-The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr Osita Chidoka, has charged Igbos to promote their values, culture
and language irrespective of their societal status. Chidoka made the call while celebrating the new yam festival
in Obosi, his home town in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra. According to him, the core values of hard work and entrepreneurship were embedded in Igbo culture, especially in farming and communal work, which distinguished them from
other tribes. “Today is an opportunity to thank God for making the farming season to come to an end and for ensuring a bumper harvest. “The Igbo culture of hard work and communal work is reflected in the new yam festival.
“It is a culture that every Igbo son and daughter must promote,” Chidoka, who holds the title of “Ike Obosi” said in an interview with newsmen. The colourful occasion, which was a show and display of Igbo cultural heritage, attracted members of the community and dignitaries. Among those present were the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr Ballah Nasarawa, and the Commander of the 302 Artillery Regiment, Nigerian Army, Ontisha, Col. Taritimiye Gagariga. They also included Mr Chike Nwaka, the Assistant Corps Marshal of the FRSC Zone 9, Enugu; Mr Ademola Lawal, the Assistant Corps Marshal of Zone 2, Lagos and the Assistant Corps Marshal of Zone 5, Benin, Mr Nsibong Akpabio. The Chairman of the FRSC board, Mr. Felix Ugwu, who also
Olofa Stool
graced the occasion, urged the Igbo to reinvent themselves, particularly by ensuring that their children spoke the language. The Anambra FRSC Sector Commander, Mr. Hygienus Omeje, commended the Ike Obosi for finding time to celebrate with his people. “His coming back home is an indication that he is a true Igbo man who always remembers that he is first a grassroots man before becoming the FRSC boss,” Omeje said. Also, Gagariga expressed happiness with the occasion, saying that it was an occasion to promote peace. “Culture and tradition are good in bringing about peace in the society irrespective of where or who we are; there is always need for us to come back home,” he said. He called on the people of the state to embrace peace, saying that the armed forces will collaborate
Ruling House Petitions Aloma Muktar, praying her to CJN reassign the stay-of-execution of ILORIN- The Olugbense ruling house of Offa has petitioned the Chief Justice of the Federation (CJN), Justice
Flooded Olajuwon Street, Tejuosho in Lagos after a downpour yesterday.
Fayemi Inaugurates Ikole-Ilumoba Road IKOLE (EKITI) - Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti has inaugurated the 20-km IkoleIjesaisu-Ilumoba road, rehabilitated by his administration. Fayemi also flagged off the construction of the eight-km Ikole township road and 20-km Ikole-Ara-Isinbode road, linking Ekiti and Ikare in Onda State. The governor said that his administration was delivering on its electioneering promises in all sectors of the economy, especially in the provision of infrastructure. Fayemi said that his administration was interested in rehabilitation of roads because this would engender development and improve the socio-economic lives of the people. The governor reiterated his commitment to making all parts of the state accessible.
He appealed to the people to partner with his government in the maintenance of the roads. Fayemi also warned against dumping of refuse in drains, indiscriminate cutting of roads and engaging in anti-social activities that would not allow the roads to endure. According to him, erring person or persons will be made to face the full wrath of the law. He urged contractors handling road projects to adhere strictly to specifications and to deliver roads that would stand the test of time.
YOLA- The management of the Adamawa State University, Mubi, has threatened that it would no longer pay salaries of striking lecturers in the university. The warning is contained in a statement, signed by the Registrar of the university, Mrs Jinatu Garnvwa, and made available to newsmen in Yola. The strike embarked upon by
the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which commenced on July 3, has yet to be resolved by the government and the union. Jinatu said that sub-section 4 of the Labour Act, Chapter 198, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1990 states that “every employee is free to be a member of a trade union and to participate in its lawful activities. It also provide that no employee
An artculated vehicle plunged into a river at Sanyo area of Ibadan on Monday.
Eid-el Kabir: Gov Yero Tasks Muslims KADUNA-Governor Mukhtar Yero of Kaduna State has urged Muslims to pray for peace and security in the country as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir on October 14. The call is contained in a
On Peace, Security statement issued by the governor’s Director General, Media and Publicity, Alhaji Ahmed Maiyaki, in Kaduna.
Varsity Threatens To Stop Salaries Of Striking Lecturers
shall demand as a right from employer any payment of the agreed wages after 90 days of a subsisting strike. “In the light of the above provision of the labour act, you should note that the 90 days of the subsisting strike had expired on September 30. “Therefore, the university will no longer pay the salaries of your members.” she stated.
The statement quoted the governor as saying: “Islam abhors violence and the spilling of innocent blood. “Let us use the Sallah period to offer special prayers for Allah to bring a quick end to the insurgency in the North and to bless us from His abundance.’’ The governor also urged Muslims to continue to make sacrifices toward entrenching lasting peace, unity and development in Kaduna State and Nigeria at large. He said “as we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, let us reflect on the need to live in peace with adherents of other religions in our dear state and indeed the entire
nation. “We must be ready to make sacrifices for the sake of peace and unity as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and in accordance with the teachings of our Holy Prophet Muhammad. Yero also urged Muslims to use the Sallah period to extend hands of friendship and love to followers of other religions for the sake of building lasting peace and reintegration. He reiterated the state government’s determination to improve the overall living conditions of the people of Kaduna State. He said “our cardinal objective is to protect the lives and property of the people while providing critical infrastructure for quality living.’’
judgment suit filed by the deposed Olofa of Offa, Mufutau Gbadamosi. The petition, which was signed by Mr. Saka Keji on behalf of the ruling house, was dated October 8 and made available to newsmen. Keji stated in the petition that the Olugbense family had no confidence in the new panel of the Court of Appeal to which the suit had been assigned. “We have no confidence that the new panel of justices can do justice to us in the case just as we have our fears and concerns on the motion for stay,” he added. He prayed the CJN to reassign the two motions for stay of proceeding to another panel of justices of the Court of Appeal either in Ilorin Division or any other division. Keji also pleaded that the cross appeal of the respondent, which was still pending, should also be reassigned to another panel. “Your Lordship’s quick intervention, action and response in the overall interest of justice and restoration of confidence in the judiciary will be appreciated,” he added. When the matter came up for hearing on Monday, the counsel to the Olugbense ruling house, Toyin Oladipo, told the court that he had just received a petition his client sent to the CJN. Justice Raphael Agbo, who presided, said the petition was received by the court, adding that the case could not go on. He adjourned the case indefinitely until the response of the CJN was received.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Lagos Fraud: Court
Theft: Driver,
67, Admitted To N2m Bail
Discharges Pastor LAGOS - An Oshodi Magistrates’ Court in Lagos has discharged a fake pastor, Obinna Obi, charged with N820, 000 fraud. The Magistrate, Mr Akeem Fashola struck out the case for what he called lack of diligent prosecution. “The complainant in this case has refused to show up and the court is not a warehouse where cases are kept without making any significant progress.
Air Safety
Fashola Charges Pilots, Engineers IKEJA - Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State has appealed to pilots and aeronautic engineers to collaborate in a bid to ensure safety in the nation’s airspace. The governor made the plea when AVM Monday Morgan, the Air Officer, Logistics Command of the Nigerian Air Force, paid him a courtesy call at Government House, Alausa, Ikeja. “If certain safety measures are not kept, it adds to the index of casualties we have to deal with. “There must be uncompromising standards about safety. As pilots, you must ensure that your aircraft is in good condition before you fly. “We all know that aircraft is a mechanical device and a mechanical device can fail,’’ Fashola said. According to the governor, the safety of air passengers is the responsibility of the key stakeholders in the industry. Earlier, Morgan assured the governor that the Air Force would give the necessary logistic support to the state government on safety. “I assure you that we will stand by you anytime and we will like to be part of the development trends in state,” he said.
“The case is hereby struck out,’’ he ruled. Obi, 46, who resides at No. 4, Ogunseye St., Idimu, Lagos, was first arraigned on February 8 on a two-count charge of conspiracy and obtaining money by false pretense. He was accused of allegedly obtaining N820, 000 from one Miss Delight Onyekachi, 32, a trader, under the pretext of praying for her over a spiritual challenge being experienced. The prosecutor, Kehinde Olatunde had told the court that the accused committed the offence on December 12, 2012, at No 1, Omoguwa St., Oshodi, Lagos. He said that the accused and one other at large, conspired to defraud the complainant. “The accused approached the complainant and told her that God had revealed her problem to him and had sent him to save her life. “He narrated all the problems the complainant had encountered and told her that God told him to ask her to withdraw money from her bank and gave it to him to buy necessary items to use to deliver her from her problems. “The complainant was convinced because she was actually going through those challenges and withdrew the money for him. “After the accused collected the money, he disappeared and all efforts made to trace or retrieve the money proved abortive,” he said. Olatunde said that when apprehended the accused confessed to the police that it was Ejike Lambert now at large, a member of the same church with the complainant, who conceived the scheme to dupe her. The prosecutor said that the offences contravened Sections 312 and 410 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. Section 312 provides a penalty of 15 years jail term for fraud. Reports state that at arraignment, Obi had pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties.
Ike Obosi, Chief Osita Chidoka, performing the new yam festival at his home town, Obosi, in Idemili North Local Council Area of Anambra recently.
Create Enabling Environment For Blind People, Association Urges Govt LAGOS - The Nigerian Association of the Blind, Lagos State Chapter, has urged all tiers of government to create an enabling environment for people living without sight. Mr. Opeoluwa Akinola, the chairman of the association, made the plea in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. He spoke ahead of the “2013 World White Cane Day” slated for October 15. Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia, says “A white cane is used by many people who are blind or visually impaired. Its primary uses are as a mobility tool and as a courtesy to others.” The World White Cane Day is a date set aside to highlight the importance of the white cane, being a symbol of blindness and a tool of independence for the visually-impaired. Akinola said that good policies and the provision of infrastructure like roads, walkways, transportation, residential and public buildings, would make mobility easier for
people living without sight. He said that white canes would allow people living without sight to have freedom and mobility. “Internationally, white canes are recognised for providing the visually impaired with greater mobility, allowing them to participate more within their communities. “The White Cane Day is a day to sensitise the public on the white cane, how it is used and other issues such as employment, education and other matters that deal with visual impairment. “The colour is deliberate; it is easy to see or spot out such that even if you are walking at night, people can easily see that you are coming,’’ he said. Akinola said that there was need for Nigerians to know the importance of the white cane and its functions. “The knowledge of the white cane has to be entrenched in us, in our habits and ways of lives. “People living with blindness should learn to use the white cane. “Also, members of the public should identify, respect and reach out to people using white canes,’’ he said. Akinola said that living without sight in the Nigerian environment could be
challenging. “Our environment is not favourable for people with sight, not to talk of people living without sight. ‘Therefore, it is not exactly conducive for the white cane to be used too. To live without sight has its own natural constraints. “In a country like ours, it is more limiting in that we don’t have enough structures in place to make mobility easy for the blind. “We don’t have walkways. Where we have, they are not up to standard. Our walkways have openings. The slabs are not properly joined. Some are too high, while others may end abruptly. “Again, most walkways have become trading places. Many blind people have fallen into open walkways, manholes or gutters, and wounded themselves,’’ Akinola said. He urged traffic control personnel, police officers and the public to always reach out to people living without sight, especially, when they were crossing the roads. Akinola said that the association in Lagos State would commemorate the White Cane Day on October 17.
LAGOS - An Oshodi Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, has slammed a N2 million bail on a 67-year-old driver, Raji Adeoye, charged with stealing goods worth N31 million, property of his employer. Adeoye, who resides at No. 61C, Bale Aiyetoro St., Ajegunle, Lagos, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing. The prosecutor, Cpl. Kehinde Olatunde, had told the court that the accused, with others now at large, committed the offences sometime in August 2012, at No.16, Industrial Avenue, Ilupeju, Lagos. He said that the accused and his accomplices were transport agents to ODAMCO Nigeria Ltd. According to him, the accused and his accomplices conspired to steal three truck loads of Gino tomatoes and Bama Mayonnaise worth N31 million, property of SOSACO Nigeria Limited. “The company’s Logistic Officers, loaded the three trucks with products meant to be delivered by Adeoye and two other drivers at Abuja, Kano and Ibadan, respectively. “Till now, nothing has been heard of the two other drivers and the trucks, and the products are yet to be delivered at their destinations. “All efforts to find the drivers, their trucks and the products have proved abortive,” he said. Olatunde said that one Alhaji Kareem, who is also at large, was the Transport Manager of ODAMCO Nigeria Ltd., owners of the trucks and employers of the drivers. “It was later discovered that the transport company was not registered and that the registration numbers on the trucks were fake. “The residential address of Kareem at Ajah, Lagos, was traced by detectives who were informed that he had moved out of the house since the day of the incident,” he said. Olatunde said that the offence contravened Sections 285 and 409 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011. Section 285 provides three years imprisonment for stealing. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Before adjourning the case to November 28 for mention, the magistrate, Mr. Akeem Fashola, granted the accused a N2 million bail and two sureties in like sum.
Theft Of Brain Box
Auto Electrician Docked
Mother and kids; No home to lay their head. PHOTO: Lucky Agie.
LAGOS - An auto electrician, Mr Muyideen Ibrahim, was charged before an Apapa Senior Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, for stealing a Hilux jeep brain box worth N380, 000. Ibrahim, 20, who resides at Olodi-Apapa, Lagos, is facing charges of malicious damage and stealing. The prosecutor, Cpl. Friday Inedu, told the court that the accused stole the brain box of a Hilux jeep with registration No. MUS — 980 XD where it was parked at a mechanic workshop.
Inedu said that the accused broke the side glass of the jeep and removed the brain box worth N380, 000 belonging to one Mr Vincent Ajede. He said that the jeep was being repaired at Coconut Mechanic workshop located at Olodi Apapa, Lagos, before it was vandalised by the accused. The offences, Inedu said were committed on September 23 at about 8:00 a.m. He said that the offences contravened sections 285 and 348 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
State, 2011. Section 285 of the Criminal Law stipulates three years imprisonment for stealing while Section 348 prescribed two years. The Senior Magistrate, Mr Adeyemi Amos, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with one surety in like sum. Amos said that the surety should show evidence of tax payment to Lagos State as part of the bail condition. The case was adjourned till October 23 for further hearing.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Across The Nation Borno To Sponsor 20 Post Graduate MAIDUGURI- The Borno Students Abroad
government has concluded arrangements to sponsor 20 post-graduate students to study petroleum engineering in British universities. The state Governor, Alhaji Kashim Shettima made the disclosure when he presented the sponsorship letters to the beneficiaries at a ceremony in Maiduguri. He said the gesture was aimed at ensuring human capital development in the state, adding that the state government had set aside N142 million for the sponsorship. Shettima said it was part of the government’s vision to plan for the future development of the state as a likely crude oil producer. He added that “it is an incontestable fact that there is large quantity of crude in the Lake Chad area of the state. “Even the Vice President, Alhaji Namadi Sambo, confirmed this when he visited Borno recently.’’ The governor, therefore, said that the government was trying to prepare the ground to ensure that the state’s indigenes were not sidelined in the scheme of things when crude was finally found. “We do not want a situation whereby our people will be relegated to the background if crude exploration eventually begins in the state. “We want our sons and daughters to be engineers rather than being drivers and cooks for the crude engineers,’’ he said. Shettima said the
beneficiaries of the petroleum course were selected from all the senatorial districts of the state to ensure an even spread. He urged them to justify the huge government spending by taking their studies seriously. The governor also announced the state government’s plan to send 27 female students to study medicine at the Nile
Homicide:
University in Egypt to produce female doctors for the state. “We are also trying to sponsor 27 female students to study medicine in Nile University and another Egyptbased university. “The objective is to produce capable female doctors who will work in our hospitals.’’
Court Remands 4
MAKURDI- A Makurdi Magistrates’ Court has remanded four persons, charged with alleged homicide, in prison custody. The police prosecutor, Sgt. Patrick Sunday, told the court that one Bunde Usom of AgberGbaa village, Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue, reported the case to the police. Sunday said the complainant alleged that his brother, one Chior Usom, aged 75, was shot and killed in his house at Daudu village in Makurdi local government area. He added that the victim’s daughter, who allegedly witnessed the shooting, saw one Emberga Donald, together with Lazarus Uhende, Iornongo Uma, James Uhende and others at large, commit the crime. During police investigation, the accused persons were arrested and Donald allegedly confessed to have committed the crime in conjunction with others. However, when the case came up for mention, the plea of the accused were not taken for want of jurisdiction. The prosecutor said
investigation into the matter was still ongoing and asked the court for another date for mention. He said the offence contravened the Penal Code of Benue, 2004. The Magistrate, Mrs Lillian Terseer-Tsumba, adjourned the case to December 4 for mention.
7 Killed, 11 Injured In Birnin Gwari
Road Accident: KADUNA- Seven persons were confirmed dead and 11 others injured when two vehicles collided at Dogon Hauwa village, 14 kilometres away from Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State. Mr Mike Olagunji, the state Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), told newsmen in Kaduna that the accident occurred on Sunday at about 11.37 p.m . Olagunji said five of the victims were burnt beyond recognition, while the other two died from the injuries they sustained during the accident.
Cross River: 18 Ex-Corps Members
Get Automatic Employment
CALABAR- No fewer than 18 former members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have been given automatic employment by the Cross River Local Government Service Commission (LGSC). Mr Nja Nkang-Abang, the commission’s Chairman, said this in Calabar, while briefing journalists on the commission’s activities. He said that the ex-corps members were given automatic employment in appreciation of their excellent performance during their service year. “The commission has commenced online computation of the terminal benefits of all pensioners; this exercise should be completed by the end of 2013.
“Enlightenment campaign is being carried out through Pension Desk Officers and Secretaries of Area Education Authorities. “This is aimed at encouraging retirees to promptly process their papers for the computation of their terminal benefits,’’ he said. Nkang-Abang said that the commission was statutorily established to manage the personnel affairs of local government councils, especially in the areas of appointments, promotions, training, transfer and discipline. According to him, the commission is committed to training and re-training of local government personnel, with a view to bringing the desired professionalism out
Butchers sharing meat at Nasara street in Bauchi State for Eid-el-Kabir celebration Monday.
of the system. “The commission has sponsored the training of 38 persons at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Out of them, 22 have so far graduated. “Six of them obtained B.SC degrees in Local Government Studies, while16 others acquired Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in different courses,’’ he said. Besides, Nkang-Abang said that the commission had approved the retirement of 188 permanent workers and 28 voluntary staff. He also said that the commission had commenced plans to select workers for training as Community Health Officers from the 18 local government areas in the state.
The commander said the bodies of the seven victims had been deposited at Birnin Gwari General Hospital, while those who sustained injuries were also treated at the hospital. Olagunji disclosed that the corps was able to trace the relations of the victims from the passenger manifest recovered from the bus, adding that those affected had been evacuated by their families He said the accident involved a Mazda 18-seater bus registered XA 75 BUJ heading to Ilorin from Kaduna and a fuel tanker registered XC 163 KMC going to Kano from Lagos.. He attributed the accident to over speeding, saying the driver of the bus had rammed into the tanker when he lost control of his vehicle while trying to avoid
a pot hole. The two vehicles instantly caught fire, he added. The FRSC commander advised road users to always
abide by traffic rules, while passengers should endeavour to properly fill the manifest at the point of boarding any commercial vehicle.
SURU (KEBBI STATE) Alhaji Muhammad Sahabi, Chairman Suru Local Government Area in Kebbi, said the council spent N1.4 million to buy National Examination Council (NECO) examination forms for 143 eligible candidates free of charge. Sahabi told newsmen in Suru that the council bought 100 of the forms. He said 43 of the forms were provided by the state AccountantGeneral, Alhaji Muhammad DanAtto, jointly with Rep. Bello Kaoje (Suru/Bagud constituency). Sahabi said the council would
sustain its commitment to encourage school dropouts, to make up for examination papers they failed. The Coordinator of the programme, Alhaji Usman Umar, told newsmen that over 2,000 students were trained in preparation for the examination while 116 of them did well Umar said the training programme was in collaboration with the National Directorate of Employment. He called on the students who failed their examinations to register for the training programme as fees would be paid for them.
LG Purchases NECO Forms For Candidates
Pensioners waiting to collect their pension for Eid-el-Kabir celebration at a bank in Bauchi State Monday.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Abuja File Fresh Writ Of Summons, Court Orders Claimant
People shopping for Eid-El-Kabir celebration at Jimeta-Yola Central on Monday.,
ABUJA- The National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja has ordered Mr Linus Igboyi, a former employee of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), to file a writ of summons. Igboyi had sued FIRS via originating summons, praying the court to declare that his dismissal in March 2008 by the defendant was illegal, null and void. The presiding judge, Justice Maureen Esowe, gave the order while delivering ruling in the preliminary objection filed by the defendant’s counsel, Mr Thihwi Dauda, to challenge the suit. Esowe held that originating summon was not the appropriate mode to commence the suit, since it contained issues of facts that were contentious. The presiding judge explained
that the matter could not be properly determined and justice arrived at if oral evidence was not led by the parties. She ordered the parties to exchange pleading for proper adjudication of the case and adjourned it to November 13 for mention and or hearing. “The court believes that the case at hand contains contentious issues of fact that cannot be meritoriously determined by affidavit evidence. “The parties are ordered to exchange pleading to enable the court determine the case in its merit,” she ruled. It will be recalled that when the matter came up for adoption in July, the defendant’s counsel, Dauda, told the court that there
3 Men Docked For Mischief
ABUJA- Three men, Sagir Usman, Mustapha Hamisu and Saifullahi Ibrahim, all of Jabi motor park, Abuja, appeared in a Wuse Zone 6 Magistrates’ Court on joint act and mischief charges. The police prosecutor, Mr Simon Ibrahim, told the court that Patrick Ali of Force Headquaters, Abuja, lodged a report against the accused persons at the Utako Police Station on October 10. Ibrahim alleged that the accused persons broke the side glass window of the complainant’s Honda Civic car parked in the park. He said the accused broke the glass with the intention to steal the car stereo and other valuables. The prosecutor said the complainant raised an alarm which attracted the attention of security men in the motor park who arrested the accused. He said the offence People loading Rams in vehicle at artisan livestock market in Enugu on Monday in preparation for Eid-El-Kabir contravened the provisions of celebration.
Market Women Appeal To ASUU To Suspend Strike
ABUJA- The Market Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend its strike while it continues negotiations with the Federal Government. Mrs Felicia Sani, the National President of the association, made the appeal in Abuja when the women protested against the ongoing strike. Sani expressed concern over the refusal of ASUU to end its strike, in spite of the substantial Federal Government’s compliance with its demands. She said that the students were always the losers whenever there was a face-off between the Federal Government and university lecturers. Sani, nonetheless, noted that the Federal Government had demonstrated appreciable commitment in efforts to end the ASUU strike through its engagement with the union on
several occasions. “The Federal Government has ordered the release of N130 billion for infrastructure development and payment of allowances to ASUU members but the lecturers insist on continuing with the strike. “The union ought to have
suspended the strike immediately President Goodluck Jonathan waded into the crisis and ordered the release of N130 billion,’’ she said. Sani stressed the need for ASUU to understand the
implications of the strike on the future of the students. “The students spend so much time before graduating; they spend their time on other things instead on concentrating on their studies. This makes some of them to lose focus,” she said. She advised politicians to
avoid politicising the ASUU strike in a plot to promote their selfish interests, stressing that the concerted efforts of all the citizens were required to resolve the crisis. Sani urged ASUU to be honest in its dealings with the government, advising it to always look beyond its members’ salary and allowances before embarking on strike.
Stakeholder Tasks Artists On Indigenous Production ABUJA- Mr Okorie Odo, the Chief Executive Officer, Galaxy Impressions Concepts Ltd., an Abuja-based music marketing outfit, has advised artistes to show more interest in production of indigenous music. Odo, who gave the advice in Abuja in an interview with correspondent said this would ensure the promotion of the country’s cultural heritage. He stressed the need for artistes to address social vices
and country’s poor image through their music themes. “There is need raise awareness about the impact which western culture had brought on the social, economic, political and cultural spheres in the country. “Traditional music use instruments to portray the country in good light. “This indigenous instrument must be exploited positively to sustain a positive image for the
country and in this drive, we must pursue a quick reorientation of our people and especially our youths.’’ Odo added that promoting indigenous music would facilitate the sustenance, acceptance and consumption of Nigerian musical products in the global market. He said that this would further boost the nation’s economic development. “The most common vehicle of communication is music,
were contentious issues in the matter. He urged the court to strike out the suit on grounds of merit in the interest of justice. The claimant’s counsel, Mr Onyekachi Asogwa, argued that originating summon was the proper way to commence the suit since it was based on constitutional interpretation. The claimant is praying the court to declare that the defendant had no constitutional powers to terminate his appointment. Igboyi is also praying the court to order the defendant to reinstate him and pay all his entitlements from March 2008 till date.
also it is a powerful tool for change and a great tool for generation of income for most developed countries of the world,’’ he said. He appealed to the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to fund the music industry to enable it promote Nigerian music internationally. He further called on the government to help fight piracy, which he described as a common enemy of the industry.
Section 79 and is punishable under Section 327 of the Penal Code. If convicted, the accused are liable to five years’ imprisonment or an option to pay a fine or both. They pleaded not guilty to the offences. The magistrate, Mr Emmanuel Iyana, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 each and a surety each in like sum. Iyana ordered that the sureties must be resident within the jurisdiction of the court, and adjourned the case to October 30 for hearing.
Taxi Driver, Arraigned For Causing Grievous Hurt ABUJA- The police has arraigned a taxi driver Sadiq Sani, 24, in a Life Camp Senior Magistrates’ Court on charges of causing grievous hurt. Sani, a resident of Galadimawa, in the FCT, was charged with causing grievous hurt, on his fellow taxi driver, Mr Sanusi Ibrabim. The prosecutor, Sgt. Salihu Mohammed, told the court that Ibrahim, the nominal complainant, lodged a report against the accused at the Life Camp Police Station on October 9. Mohammed alleged that at about 11 a.m. on the said day, an argument ensued between the complainant and the accused person. He said that in the process, Sani stabbed Ibrahim in the stomach with a sharp knife, adding that he sustained a deep cut and lost a lot of blood. The prosecutor said that the complainant was immediately rushed to the Gwarinpa General Hospital, where he received treatment for several days. The offence contravened the provision of Section 241 and is punishable under Section 245 of the Penal Code. If convicted, the accused is liable to four years imprisonment or a fine or both. The accused pleaded not guilty to the one-count charge.
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Business + Economy President’s Aide Tasks Stakeholders On MDGs ABUJA - Dr Precious Gbeneol, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), has urged stakeholders to make efforts to meet up with the goals. This is contained in a statement issued by Dr Chris Otabor, the Head Information and Communications in Abuja. The statement said that the government was putting every effort to ensure that Nigeria consolidated on its achievements before the 2015 deadline. The statement urged state governors and local government chairmen and other stakeholders to redouble their efforts in accelerating efforts in the final push to attain the MDGs goals. According to the statement, irrespective of class, position and status, all hands must be on deck as the target deadline is less than 1,000 days. It added that the government is committed to delivering on the MDGs projects till the last day of the programme in 2015. The statement gave details about the MDGs activities in Anambra State. It noted that MDGs had commissioned three buildings at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Holy Rosary Specialist Hospital/
Maternity and School of Midwifery in Ihiala, Local Government Area of Anambra. It said that the hospital also received a brand new automated ambulance for emergency cases as well as a cheque of N50 million for the completion of some of the ongoing projections. “The buildings include the general out-patient department, School of Midwifery hostel block, and School of Nursing hostel block. “Other project inspected includes the ongoing construction of the school of medical laboratory building,’’ it said. The statement said that blocks of buildings were also commissioned at the Iyienu Hospital in Ogidi in Idemili South Local Government.
Customers at a Ram Market in Enugu in Preparation for Eid-el-Kabir celebration recently.
Capital Market: Stakeholders Seek Tax Incentives
LAGOS - Two capital market stakeholders, has called for the introduction of tax incentives by the Federal Government, to deepen the growth of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). They told newsmen in Lagos that there was need for government to make
quotations attractive and to boost the performance of companies already listed. Malam Garba Kurfi, the Chief Executive Officer, APT Funds and Securities Ltd.,
Rams for sale at Artisan Livestock Market in Enugu recently.
said that tax holidays would enable new entrants to consolidate on their operations and project for the future. Kurfi said that tax holidays would encourage more companies to seek listing on the nation’s bourse. Mr. Boniface Okezie, President, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), said that taxes paid by quoted companies and investors in the market were enormous. Okezie said that taxation, like corporate tax in the market, contributed to the closure of some manufacturing companies operating in the country. He said that government should announce tax holidays, as it had failed to provide social amenities and a friendly operating environment for companies. Meanwhile, a turnover of 1.48 billion shares worth N15.16 billion were transacted in 21,606 deals last week, against the 1.63 billion shares
Association Commends FG For Slashing Cost Of Business Registration businesses owing to the high establishment of more small
LAGOS - The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Mr. Eke Ubiji, has commended the Federal Government for reducing the cost of business registration in the country. Ubiji gave the commendation during an interview with newsmen in Lagos. According to him, many entrepreneurs have not been able to register their
cost and rigours of the registration process. “Registration difficulties have been a big challenge for Nigerian entrepreneurs. If your organisation is not registered, it lacks credibility. “People will not be encouraged to do business with you. Any business that is not registered is operating in the dark,” Ubiji said. The NASME scribe said that the price reduction would, however, create ample opportunities for the
and medium enterprises that would reduce unemployment in the country. “In a country like ours, where there is a high rate of employment, many people are desirous of having their own businesses. “New businesses are expected to spring up, with this reduction. “These businesses will grow and soon start employing more capable people to run and expand the businesses,” Ubiji said.
Federal Government has slashed the cost of registering businesses by half, starting from October 1, to encourage investments in the country. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, had announced a 50 per cent reduction of equity registration costs for businesses worth N500 million and below. He also announced a 25 per cent reduction for equity registration for businesses worth N500 million and above.
valued at N15.37 billion traded in 15,935 deals in the previous week. The Financial Services sector remained the most active, accounting for 996.51 million shares worth N7.76 billion, traded in 11,818 deals. The Conglomerates sector followed with a turnover of 320.56 million shares valued at N774.09 million, achieved in 1,656 deals. Also, the NSE All-Share Index rose by 65.8 basis points or 0.18 per cent to close at 36,991.62, compared with the 36,925.82 posted in the preceding week. The market capitalisation grew by N21billion or 0.18 per cent to close at N11.782 trillion, from the N11.761
trillion recorded in the corresponding week. International Energy Insurance led the gainers’ table in percentage terms, appreciating by 32.39 per cent or 23k, to close at 94k per share. Forte Oil trailed with 21.89 per cent or N8.62 to close at N48 per share, while Wema Bank gained 19.61 per cent or 20k to close at N1.22 per share. On the other hand, Berger Paints topped the losers’ chart in percentage terms, dropping by 12.64 per cent or N1, to close at N7.60 per share. Transnational Corporation of Nigeria dropped by 9.52 per cent or 18k to close at N1.71, while Port Land Paints & Products Nigeria lost 8.93 per cent or 50k to close at N5.10 per share.
Nigeria (FADAN) has appealed to the Federal Government to create an environment conducive to the development of the fashion industry in the country. Mrs. Funmi Ajila-Ladipo, President of FADAN, Lagos State Chapter, made the call in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. She said that being one of the largest employers of labour with huge prospects, the industry had the ability to serve as an alternative source of revenue for the government. “Government needs to encourage entrepreneurs because the image of Nigeria outside has got to do with our African dressing
style. “If you travel out of the country, you will see how foreigners appreciate our culture, most especially our African dressing. “We should admit the fact that the opportunities in the industry are issues that we need to look into and develop. “There’s a lot of income to be generated out of it; there’s development to get out of it; there’s a lot of good image to build out of it. “So, Government should also understand that in order to launder our image, this sector must be carried along, “Ajila-Ladipo said. She added that the aims of the association included the promotion of the nation’s cultural and ethnic values.
Fashion Designers Seek Govt LAGOS - The Fashion Support Designers Association of
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International Features
Edo State Devt:
Odubu Tells Story In US
THE moment was ripe, and the Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Egberanmwen Odubu has delivered when he recently took the success story of Edo State under Governor Adam Aliu Oshiomhole to Edo People in the United States of America. Speaking at a reception in his honor in Boston, Massachusetts, Dr. Odubu started by paying glowing tribute to his boss, Edo State Governor, Comrade Adam Oshiomhole for considering him fit to be his running mate in 2006, considering his pedigree as a Labor Leader for eight years who successfully managed the tripod – the Yorubas, Hausas and the Ibos. Oshiomhole’s success in managing the Nigerian Labor Congress, according to him was “a manifestation of his intellectual capacity.” “It was a singular honor for me to have been selected in 2006 by Oshiomhole as his running mate, knowing his pedigree as President of the Nigerian Labor Congress for eight.” Dr. Odubu referred to how Oshiomhole’s victory at the gubernatorial poll was stolen by some people who doctored a result in favor of his opponent, a situation which led to “18 months of rugged fight at the election tribunal to regain our mandate.” Dr. Odubu saluted Oshiomhole’s courage and doggedness without which they would have lost the people’s mandate. “Today, we are all in Oshiomhole’s School of Politics”, he proudly remarked. He recalled how the administration was faced with the challenges of restoring the state to a sound footing from its abyss of total collapse, a situation he summed up as “we were time-bound and in a hurry” to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. Dr. Odubu said that at inception, Oshiomhole gave three components as the basis of his administration, namely: that the people will lead, that he would provide selfless leadership and create the greatest number of work and development in Edo state. “Today he has affected all the segments of human endeavor”, he remarked. Dr. Odubu touted the achievements of the Oshiomhole’s led administration which include the creation of sound economic base and provision of infrastructural facilities, road construction and rehabilitation in the 18 Local Government Areas of the state. On road construction, he cited example with Orhionmwnon local government area with a dualized road construction of high quality, a replica “of the type you would see in Boston.” He also talked about the electricity project embarked upon by the administration in several local government areas and improved quality of education in the state, coupled with the renovation of schools, which according to him has placed public educational institutions on a pedestal of excellence. This phenomenon, he said has spurred parents into moving their children from private schools to public schools in the state. Since the Oshiomhole government came in, he said the state has witnessed the highest rate of employment at different levels with thousands of men and women employed. “There was an embargo on employment when we got into office,” adding that it was one of the first problems the government tackled. Dr. Odubu remembered Oshiomhole’s mantra that “if the rich must enjoy their wealth the poor must be provided for”, a philosophy he said drives the engine of the administration. Health care delivery, he said was another important sector of the economy where the state government has excelled, adding that apart from improved quality of health in the state, healthcare is free for children and people over 60 years old and all pregnant women. Dr. Odubu lauded the Oba of Benin His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa for what he described as his unflinching support for the administration, adding that the success story of the administration would not be told without His Royal
Majesty. He recalled the fatherly role of the Oba at every stage of the administration’s implementation of its development program, citing
people in the diaspora to bring whatever wealth and knowledge they have acquired in foreign land to develop their homeland. Chief host of the
Idahagbon, Commissioner for Works, Bar. Osarodion Ogie and the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Bar. Donald Osikhela-Boih.
Dr. Pius Egberanmwen Odubu, Deputy Governor of Edo State
example with the expansion of Airport road in Benin for which he gave one hundred percent approval even if it affected the part of the Palace. He remarked that the Benin Monarch has always shown leadership by example, saying the state would remain grateful to him. Dr. Odubu implored Edo
occasion, Journalist, community activist and media consultant, Emmanuel Okunmwendia said the purpose of the event was to honor the deputy governor. On the Deputy Governor’s entourage included the state’s Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Bar Henry
Others were, the member representing Orhionmwon/ Uhunmwode Federal House in the House of Representative and Minority Whip Bar. Samson Osagie, the Chief of Staff to Edo State Government House, Bar. Patrick Obahiagbon and the Chief of Staff to the deputy governor, Prince Epken
Akenzua. Also on hand to support the deputy governor were former Senior Special Assistant to the state governor, Mrs. Abieyuwa Eribo and Special Assistant to the governor, Mr. Donald Omorodion Igiede. The occasion was attended by dignitaries from various walks of life, including the Chairman, Council of Presidents, Edo National Association Worldwide, Bar. Dickson Iyawe; representatives from key Edo-oriented organizations in Massachusetts, including Mr. Frank Ekhator, Human Rights Activist and President, Edo United for Homeland Empowerment; Mr. Anthony Omoruyi, President, The Benin Club of Massachusetts and retired Major Leonard Ativie, President, Esan Association. Also present were, cyber security expert, Dr. Sam Edo, and Dr. Osilama Osime. Others were Mr. Edosa Owens, president Western Boys High School Old Boys Association; Mrs. Omo Idusuyi, President, Elite Ladies Club; Miss. Patience Abbe, founder and Matron, Idia Ladies Club; Mrs. Anne Osula, President Uwaila Ladies Club; businessmen, Mr. OSaze Owens, Mr. Skelly Enabulele, Prince Davies Aiwerioghene and Mr. William Ekhator.
Greek Far-Right Leaders Accused Of SHE first got into politics crimes over a period - a key in Greece last year - when she Organized Violence test for convicting members bought herself a bullet-proof vest and learned how to beat up immigrants with poles hung with the national flag. Her training over, she was a full member of Golden Dawn, the far-right party whose rage against foreigners has propelled its stiff-arm saluting leader Nikolaos Mihaloliakos and 17 others into parliament in Athens in the wake of the Greek debt crisis. A year on and the woman is Witness B, giving evidence used to arrest Mihaloliakos and five fellow Golden Dawn lawmakers. They have been charged with belonging to a criminal organization involved in many offences including the stabbing last month of a left-wing rap artist whose death has infuriated the government. “Abusing immigrants was fun,” Witness B told prosecutors last month of her days riding with a party motorcycle gang, according to a partial transcript of testimony included in prosecutors’ indictment
submission and seen by Reuters. Defense lawyers challenge the testimony and the charges. The party denies wrongdoing. Accusing the government of tactics not seen since the military junta of 40 years ago, it says it is being persecuted for its politics after standing up for ordinary Greeks against a corrupt elite that has bankrupted the nation and flung open its borders to cheap migrant labor. Statements filed in court by purportedly penitent members of Golden Dawn paint the most detailed picture yet of the inner workings of a group that spent three decades on the far fringes of politics before becoming the fifth biggest party last year. That picture is one of violence and intimidation not only against migrants, the testimony suggests, but also within the party - against dissenters or some who sought to leave. As such, the witnesses may be key to proving that Golden Dawn is a criminal
organization, people familiar with the case said. No date or venue has been set for a trial of the six lawmakers, three of whom have been released on bail. They face 10 years in jail if convicted of criminal association. A party supporter accused of killing the rapper during a street brawl is being tried for manslaughter with intent in a separate case; he says he was acting in self-defense. “All this is nonsense,” said Pericles Stavrianakis, lawyer for Golden Dawn parliamentary spokesman Christos Pappas, who is among the six senior party officials charged. Stavrianakis said the witness testimony was “fake and made up”. Reuters has not verified the witnesses’ identities. But prosecutors see their testimony as indicating that the party systematically planned or committed
of being part of a criminal organization under a law targeting gang crime and terrorism. Some witnesses also tell of members admiring Hitler, though the party denies it is neo-Nazi. Its swastika-style flag and its slogan “Blood, Honor, Golden Dawn” are reminiscent of Nazi symbols and ideas, but these are not illegal in Greece. Voters seem to be turning away from Golden Dawn, though it remains a significant force. Opinion polls suggest its support has shrunk by a third in the past year, but still give it close to the 7 percent it won in the June 2012 parliamentary ballot. Like other protest movements across Europe, Golden Dawn - as well as the radical left party that came second in the Greek election - has seen support surge since the euro zone debt crisis destroyed jobs and incomes in much of the continent.
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THE world has for too long watched the mindless killings, barbarism and crude display of man’s inhumanity to man in Syria. The news reports and footages as well as statistics since the civil war broke out over two years ago remain frightening. WE are grieved that the world waited for a long time before ‘friends of Syria’ was established to provide technical support to opposition forces. Such support notwithstanding, the world literarily stood aloof while the cruelty continued in the more than two years upheaval in the middle East country with its President, Bashar al-Assad”Bashar alAssad playing god. IT is quite heart rending that at the last count by the United Nations, over 100,000 persons have been killed, 1.9 million Syrians are refugees, three quarter of this number are women and children. UNICEF puts the figure of children at over 1 million. Over 4.25million citizens have been internally displaced leaving the worst ever human catastrophe to bear on hapless Syrians just because one man wants to remain their president. The way the war is progressing, we fear that Assad may wake up one morning to discover that he is the only Syrian left alive. WE condemn the use of chemical weapons recently and we call on President al- Assad to tell his horendous
THE NIGERIAN
Time To End Blood Letting In Syria
stories to the marines. He should stop trading blames on the use of chemical substances with the opposition forces because, Syria remains the fourth nation in the world that have stockpiled chemical weapons under his regime. What with the delays in allowing the UN team access into the areas where chemicals were used to kill over 1,500 defenceless civilians, most of whom were women and children, including pregnant women? Why were the UN officials who remained in Damascus for almost a week denied access to the site only for them to be fired with snipers when the exercise eventually commenced? WHILE we salute all world leaders who expressed disgust at what is happening in Syria and are pushing for more actions and sanctions, we wish to remind them that they have a duty to stop the bloodletting of millions of citizens of that warravaged country. We strongly believe that today, not tomorrow is time to act decisively to bring the war to an end. WE therefore condemn Russia and China
for arming the Syrian dictator against his people, and for withholding their support for a United Nations common action against al-Assad. It is a shame that in the face of the condemnable holocaust, Damascus had taken delivery of advanced S-300 sir defence systems from Russia that could vastly improve its defence capabilities and strengthen the dictatorship. Russia and China must stop profiting from the blood of innocent Syrians. WE applaud the US’ leadership in canvassing options to end the conflict. We urge Prime Minister David Cameron and President Barack Obama to continue to take the lead for a universal action against the Assad regime. We are equally glad to note that 36 to 37 countries are discussing various alternatives to end the crisis. We encourage the coalescing countries to act fast to stop the pogrom. INSTEAD of embarking on wishful boasts a la Hitler, Muamar Ghadafi, Sadam Husein and others, we call on President Assad to step down and allow the war torn country breath a fresh breath because we believe that there is no sacrifice too big for any Syrian to halt the mindless killings going on in that country. WE therefore call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to join forces with progressive nations to intervene in the Syrian crisis and bring it to an amicable end.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Issues President Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda
How Realistic?
IT is common practice all over the world, as new governments normally announce the policy thrust that they intend to pursue and upon which their subsequent actions and inactions can be based and interpreted. Nigerian past leaders have made series of policy pronouncements, strategies and programmes meant to transform the Nigerian economy in past years. ‘’For example, the Structural Adjustment Programme, SAP, implemented in 1986 was to transform the economy and put it on a path of noninflationary, sustainable growth. At some point, SAP virtually destroyed the economy and intensified the development of underdevelopment in Nigeria. Both the “Green Revolution” and “Operation Feed the Nation” were to transform Nigeria’s agriculture into a modern and vibrant agricultural sector with increased productivity based on innovation and technology. Today the agricultural sector remains primitive with increased production either due to nature (rainfall, for example) or increased acreage’’. The education sector requires complete overhaul to position it as platform upon which the president’s transformation agenda could be achieved. We have seen in recent times the steady decline in the performances of the nation’s secondary school students in the West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO), National Board for Technical Education (NABTED) as well as other professional examinations yearly. With this development, it will be
By FAMOUS IGUISI
difficult to guarantee the attainment of Nigeria’s set goals within target dates. In December 2009, the Economic blueprint of President Jonathan’s administration was launched; with the title: “Nigeria: Vision 20:2020: Economic Transformation Blueprint”. The implementation of the blueprint is supposed to make Nigeria one of the 20 largest economies in the world by the year 2020. During his electioneering tours around the country, President Jonathan anchored his message on his readiness to engender rapid transformation in the country through purposedriven policies and programmes. Today, the Transformation agenda has become a mantra in all sectors of the Nigerian society. Before the President and members of his cabinet officially resumed duties, a retreat programme was organized for them. The retreat featured series of articulately written lectures which focused on areas such as tackling corruption, improving service delivery, fixing critical sectors of the nation’s economy as well as evolving programmes that would accelerate the nation’s plans of becoming one of the 20 largest economies by the year 2020. The President at the retreat, charged members of his cabinet, comprising of Ministers, Special Advisers, Heads of Parastals and Agencies to replicate similar gesture in their respective areas to ensure that their subordinates who are directly involved in the day to day running of affairs are also carried along. While delivering his speech at the retreat the President
noted that: “our country is in dire need of transformation. We can’t afford to do otherwise. This retreat is meant to remind everyone of the onerous task ahead of us. I expect you all to go back to your respective areas of jurisdiction and replicate similar gestures”. I am sure the core
criminality all over the country. There is no doubt that there is need to transform the Nigerian economy; but with the new ‘’Transformation Agenda’’ of the President, one wonders what now happens to the Vision 2020 Economic Transformation Blueprint which is supposed to be implemented by a series of
transformational ideal, and if given the legendary aversion to change the authors do not help the people understand, and buy into, why the transition or journey is necessary’’. To some, Nigeria is the “Sleeping Giant of Africa”. The President’s statement is considered as a “wakeup call”; it is time to get back on track and lay the foundation for a radically different kind of growth both in our communities and in the nation. In that spirit, we shall make some propositions of our analysis on facts and process of national economic
Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Minister of Finance
President Goodluck Jonathan
objectives of President Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda is underlined by the desire of the present administration to promote social and economic changes through the optimization of economic growth; develop a knowledge-based economy and enhance security of lives and property; accelerate growth, provide employment and reduce youth restiveness as accentuated by the spiraling wave of violence and
must enjoy financial autonomy to enable it properly function devoid of the current encumbrances by an overbearing Executive’’. Transformation Agenda signifies an intention to go beyond the immediate, explore possibilities, change for the better (radically perhaps) and plan for the future. ‘’Transformation implies a complete change – a break from the old ways of doing things. The challenge is whether Jonathan’s transformation agenda implies a complete change; namely a structural transformation implying that those who control state
four-year development plans. ‘’Beyond the underlying quest for social justice and economic prosperity in Nigeria, the Transformation Agenda must not only guarantee the independence of the various arms of government, the Judiciary in particular which has come under intense scrutiny in recent times for all the wrong reasons must be insulated from politics and corrupt tendencies. The Legislature, on its part,
“The President who enunciated the policy should be up and doing, and ensure that it turns to a reality otherwise many observers will be quick to criticize such political posturing as mere slogan, lacking in soul and merit. ‘’The Transformation Agenda as advocated by the present administration would amount to naught if it does not provide a visible symbol for the transformational ideal, and if given the legendary aversion to change the authors do not help the people understand, and buy into, why the transition or journey is necessary’’.
power represent the interest of the majority of Nigerians; a change that will define how social forces in the country relate to production. It is hoped that President Jonathan’s promise of a ‘new’ economy through his transformation agenda will not join the league of mere g o v e r n m e n t pronouncements’’. The President who enunciated the policy should be up and doing, and ensure that it turns to a reality otherwise many observers will be quick to criticize such political posturing as mere slogan, lacking in soul and merit. ‘’The Transformation Agenda as advocated by the present administration would amount to naught if it does not provide a visible symbol for the
transformation. One may be right to say that just few years may be too short to assess his moves to bring transformation to the door steps of Nigerians, but he already has a distraction causing headache: INSECURITY. He is grappling with it. ‘’But the burden is by no means light for him and for Nigerians whose lives are meant to be transformed’’. However, he has given assurances that the reforms in the petroleum industry through the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), and other relevant sectors would lead to diversification and the capacity to generate more jobs and create wealth for Nigerians. Let us watch and pray for the realization of this laudable project.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
View Point Habits That Hold You Back Intellectually By SUCCESS OSAYI
Still On Underage Marriage
DESPITE g1obal efforts to free the girl child from every impediment to her advancement educationally and otherwise like their male counterpart, it will be uncalled for as rumored for the Nigerian Senate entrusted by the electorate as their constitutional representatives in advocating and safeguarding their rights against abuse to venture into activities that contradict the constitutional role of protection of citizens rights. This is in relation to the recent debate by the senate that seem to encourage underage girl marriage in Nigeria rather than to be in the forefront of making laws that promote the rights of the girt child. The traditional African perspective of the girl child as just mere procreation tool no longer hold ground as education has been able to prove beyond reasonable doubt women’s ability to perform creditable as their male counterpart. The role of women has shifted from the confinement within the four walls of the home to include the diverse sectors of the economy of nations of the world. This s made possible due to the world view of universal education for all irrespective of gender and also abolishing all barriers limiting women hither to from what was conceived as exclusively for men. Nigeria should not he indifferent from the world in the fight against girls/women abuse. Education that empower female like male has shown that they are not below men in comparison whatsoever. Their achievement in diverse field of world economy has led to the advocating for more opportunities for women both in
By OLUYOLA B. OMOTOLA
the political, social and economic sector of the economy. More African families have come to the realization that with education women can play the role of men, even more in their individual families if the girl child is given the right education, thus reducing the cry for male child by Africans. In order that the girl child takes her rightful place like the boy child: all obstacles that can hinder them like child marriage should be discarded while all effort should he geared toward making more laws that promote their rights as a human being not that while deprive them the rights to excel. All forms exploitations against the girl child should be taken as a serious offence. The world-over, underage children (girls) have continued to fall victims of rape even by older men and this have negative effects on the girl child. So effort should be put in this regard to protect them against rape and other social vices instead of making laws that exposed them to more danger. A law that encourages underage child marriage is definitely detrimental to women’s development as it deprives the girl the education for self development and that of the society. This will place the woman in old century confinement to the kitchen/ home in a technological advanced 21st century, Apart from the negative effects in their educational advancement, early marriage
has medical comp1icatkns on the young girl child starting with an affair with the man that has to do with love making for intimacy and child bearing despite not fully develop for sexual intercourse with a man. The young girl child is expected to experience painful intercourse, bruises etc which could lead to bleeding resulting from the cut and bruise etc. the pain from such act could frighten the girl, who my try to avoid sex completely and when forced may derive no pleasure in the act, which maybe reflected even at womanhood. There is also the high risk of developing early cervical cancer by women who engaged sex at younger age that could result to death. The young girl in discharging her responsibility as a wife, which is to get pregnant and deliver the baby stand a very high risk if no proper specialist attention, which could result to VesicoVaginal Fistula (VVF), a complication that involved uncontrollable urine or feces in the case of retro-vaginal fistula (RVF), due to prolonged labour. These and other issues are the fate of these young girls who are forced into early marriage and as such, concerted effort should be made in this regard by all and sundry toward advocating/fighting any act whatsoever that are inimical to the fundamental human rights of female children like their male counterpart.
ALTHOUGH you may not believe it, there are certain habits that you have fallen in to, which are hindering your ability to move forward in life. Although you think they have no effect on your life, these bad habits that kill your intelligence not only set you back, they are also going to stop you from being able to accomplish certain things, or attain the goals that you have set for yourself. These are some habits that are holding you back, and possibly causing you to make poor choices or decisions in your life. Psychological researchers have treated this topic over time and have come up with different habits that tend to hold you back intellectually. Below are some of these habits: CREATION AND EVALUATION It is impossible for you to go forward and backward at the same time; it is also impossible for you to go up and down simultaneously, the same goes with your mind. When you are trying to create something, and evaluate the success at the same time, you are never going to get a project going. You first have to find out what you want to create, how it is going to work, and draw out the plans; you will then create a project or product, and only after it has been created and implemented, can you begin to evaluate how it is performing, in any situation. Give things time, and do not try to do two complete opposite tasks, at the same
time. THE EXPERT SYNDROME The expert syndrome is another habit people have, which kills their intelligence. When you believe you are an expert at everything, you stop learning. You will never be humble enough to listen to others, and learn from their experience. This is in fact going to set you back, and is going to hinder your intelligence. Be open to the fact that you do not know everything, and that anyone can help you learn something new. Not only will this allow you to learn new things, it will help you come off as less of an ignorant person with others. FEAR If you are always afraid you are going to fail, you are never going to try something new. It is likely you are going to fail, more than once, especially if you have never done something before. But, if you never try, or never attempt to learn something new because you are afraid you are going to fail, you are never going to get better, and are never going to learn new things. So, you have to eliminate the fear, and accept the fact that failure comes with everything new you are going to try. LACK OF CONFIDENCE This goes hand in hand with the fear to fail. If you always believe you are going to mess up, and do not have confidence in the things you do, you can never learn and
grow. Having confidence in yourself, even if you are doing something wrong, allows you to learn, and grow, and it allows you to move forward. This will help build intelligence, and allow you to learn and experience new things in life. CREATING LIMITS Although you may have certain limits (such as financial, or certain capacities), when you create false limits, you are hindering your intelligence and ability to learn. When you put obstacles in the way, that are not really there, you are never going to try things. This will not only kill your intelligence, it will also stop you from trying new things, and learning new things that can make you better, and possibly a more successful person. So, remove irrelevant limits, and those which are only created by you in your mind. DRINKING Although it is something enjoyable, alcohol does hinder your intelligence and ability to comprehend or grasp subjects. So, drinking every once in a while will not kill all brain cells, but you should know that alcohol (and drugs), will hinder, and kill your brain cells, making it harder to learn new things. So, if you do consume alcohol, it should be done lightly, and it should be done infrequently, so as to ensure you are not going to cause damage to your brain, and possibly cause problems with the future ability to learn new things and expand on knowledge basis.
“Although it is something enjoyable, alcohol does hinder your intelligence and ability to comprehend or grasp subjects. So, drinking every once in a while will not kill all brain cells, but you should know that alcohol (and drugs), will hinder, and kill your brain cells, making it harder to learn new things.”
THE NIGERIAN
15
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Opinion
China’s Creaking Export Model THAT creaking sound you hear just might be the Chinese exportdriven economy model about to break. While most of the world’s attention is focused on the interminable and badly sung opera in Washington, China just released a set of data that indicate a serious slowing in demand for its products, particularly from its emerging market trading partners. Chinese exports in September fell 0.3 percent from a year ago, customs officials said. While demand for Chinese products flagged in the European Union, the main culprit seems to have been emerging markets, which have been hit hard by slowing capital flows. Exports to Southeast Asia fell to a 17-month low, while those to South Africa were also hit hard. Emerging markets had a hard summer, as expectations, now reversed, that the Federal Reserve would slow its purchases of bonds made borrowing money internationally more difficult. And yet, despite the fall in exports, the rest of China’s economy, which is still predicated on demand from abroad, is carrying on as if nothing has changed. Imports were sharply higher in the month, especially of the sorts of raw materials needed for export industries and to invest
in infrastructure to support more exports. Credit creation also rose, with doubtless much of it going to support imports and property investment. Imports of crude oil and iron ore set a fresh record in September, while copper shipments jumped 18 percent to set an 18-month high. For decades, China’s economic model has been relatively simple: use a lower wage base to drive exports and reinvest most of the profits into the infrastructure and factories needed to create yet more exports. Though this approach worked brilliantly for years, there were two big longer-term weaknesses with this plan. Both of them may be coming into play just about now, which would both explain decreasing demand for Chinese goods and make it more difficult for China to cope. Wage growth in China has far outpaced inflation, making it less competitive. Wages in Chinese manufacturing have more than tripled in 8 years, while the supply of rural workers streaming to cities has slowed. Boston Consulting Group sees more so-called onshoring of jobs back to the United States, driven by wages, automation and energy and transportation costs. The paired weakness is in China’s consumer
economy, which has been small and has suffered as the economy remains focused on investment, often in houses, for which there is little natural demand. C H I N A ’ S PLAYBOOK It is unclear if slowing exports are being driven
capital controls. If there is a sustained fall in demand for China’s products, its options may be somewhat limited. Given the centrality of investment and exports to China’s economy, the government has a track record of reacting
rose to a seven-month high of 3.1 percent in September, driven by food inflation, in particular vegetables. While this was driven by weather, and thus may subside, it will serve to limit the central bank’s ability to loosen
don’t come back, if change is long-term and mostly in one direction. That will put a lot of pressure on China, not least because a lot of the investment there since the great financial crisis has been of very low quality. It is not simply empty
Jinping Xi, China President
by cyclical trends, like weakness in emerging markets, or secular ones, like the migration of manufacturing. September’s figures may also look worse than they were due to a crackdown this year on phantom imports, which have been a popular way for companies wanting to bring money into the country to skirt Chinese
forcefully to slowdowns. The tactics include easing monetary conditions, which stimulate loans and investment even in the absence of strong demand for the end product. But such easing may be a bit difficult right now. China’s annual consumer inflation rate
conditions. In some ways, the biggest issue isn’t limitations on government stimulus if China needs it. One of the advantages of a single-party state with strong control over banking is that the government can always foment credit growth. The problem instead is what happens if exports
“China’s economic model has been relatively simple: use a lower wage base to drive exports and re-invest most of the profits into the infrastructure and factories needed to create yet more exports. Though this approach worked brilliantly for years, there were two big longer-term weaknesses with this plan.”
cities filled with “ i n v e s t m e n t ” apartments. It is everything from the cost and wastefulness of infrastructure investment to low-yielding research and development. An IMF study from 2012 estimated that China’s over-investment is equivalent to between 10-20 percent of annual output every year. Not only does that imply very, very low returns on investment, it almost certainly points to lower growth over time if, or rather when, China is forced to move away from its export model. That story, when it happens, may make U.S. political dysfunction look like small potatoes in comparison.
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Midweek Magazine ETHNIC issues and ethnic politics have become critical variables in our political and other calculations in the last five decades or more. All over the world, unbelievable actions are being taken within and amongst ethnic constituencies. In some cases, genocides and unprecedented massacres have taken place in the name of ethnic conflict and ethnic politics. The mismanagement of culture, identity aid difference has become an excuse for promoting criminal politics, intolerance, disregard for constitutional provisions and the rights and liberties of others, especially minorities. What is most unfortunate is that at tunes governments and political elites tend to overlook the signs of deterioration in ethnic relations until it is too late. In other cases, ethnic issues are taken for granted, especially by majority groups. In this instance, they underrate or overlook the process of mobilisation, strategisation, and preparedness for confrontation until it occurs. The issue, therefore, is how a government, political party, and political elite effectively responds to ethnic issues, ethnic politics, and ethnic positioning to ensure inclusion, harmony, peace, tolerance, social justice, and the full participation of all in society. This is not an impossible task if elites and decision-makers are committed, and if democratic constitutions, values and practices are strong. There is nothing wrong with belonging to an ethnic group. It is an identity that we all carry and which, in some instances, shape our lives as we engage the
factors and forces of production and struggle to survive in an increasingly complex and competitive society. in many instances, ethnic groups have been found more relevant that governments. This is because ethnic/cultural associations provide those social and welfare services that meet the needs of the individual better than government structures. An Ijaw man that lands at Ojota Motor Park in Lagos will find that issues of accommodation, employment, social security, social networking, and integration will be better met by his ethnic association than the State or Local Government. Ethnic associations do not rely on violence, bribery or intimidation to recruit and sustain members, When someone passes on in a ‘foreign’ location, it is the ethnic group, more than any government that I know, that caters for the corpse, moving into the village, burial rites, catering for the family and property. This shows that ethnic groups are not necessarily negative. In Nigeria, we have not done a very good job at managing ethnic relations and much less at addressing reconciliation. It is only now that certain realities are staring us in the face that we are beginning to take these matters seriously. As the saying goes, “it is better to be late than never.” There are those who prefer to see everything, including whether it rains or not, in ethnic terms. They make it sound as if some ethnic groups are made up of devils. They demonise others in order to justify certain dubious and diabolical arguments which, in reality, are designed to advance their personal interests. These ethnic magnates or commercial
“Ethnic Reconcil Reconci
ethicists will stop at nothing to fuel the fire of ethnic violence. Their negative public ethnic campaigns are usually different from what they do privately. They pay lip service or remain mute over issues of reconciliation and harmony. If I may ask: when the Urhobos, Itsekiris, Ibos, and Ijaws in Delta state see each other, do they attack each other always? Do they do business together? Do they buy food items from each other in the market place? Do they ever belong to the same political party? Do they ever share office space or work for the same organizations? Do their children ever attend the same schools or do they attend ethnic schools? Even Urhobo College…. are there only Urhobo teachers administrator and students there? When they need medical attention, do they insist on ethnic medicine brands, ethnic hospitals and doctors? When they travel do they enter buses or vehicles owned and operated only by their ethnic folks? When they are hungry is there a special ethnic hunger? Or are there ethnic roads in Delta state that cannot and must not be used by others? Are there special forms of unemployment reserved for particular ethnic groups? When they eave this world to the great beyond is there a special ethnic death by which you can separate them? This list can go on and on and lam sure that you can all relate to them. I am also sure that no one can answer a “yes” to any of the questions above. This means that ethnic conflicts are not natural, no matter the historical explanations. It means that by and large
they are invented, they are the products of ignorance, arrogance, opportunism, deliberate mis-education, tools for rationalizing inequity and corruption, and tools used, mostly by elites in their struggles for power, property and opportunities. It means that ethnic groups have always lived to ether, do live together and will continue to live together. If this is the case, is it not best to seek ways to encourage all in society to reach the uppermost level of their creative and productive abilities to the benefit of all than to allow violence, suspicion and socioeconomic decay and dislocation to guide our lives? In all societies you will find sanctimonious and even supernaturally-based explanations, justifications rationalizations, and postulations on ethnic superiority! inferiority and so on. In reality, those who perpetrate these differences and reasons for intolerance are not democrats but political opportunists, miseducated persons, and those that seek to cover their weaknesses and opportunism with ethnic blankets. In addition, ethnic entrepreneurs, unfortunately, never proffer concrete or viable solutions to the situations of conflict. The real question therefore is: what causes ethnic frictions, contradictions, and conflicts? Ethnic conflicts and violence do not just happen, they are planned, Organized, executed, reproduced, deepened and quite often, resolved by people. The truth that we must all accept is that there will never be a time hen one ethnic group will succeed in
“There are those who prefer to see everything, including whether it rains or not, in ethnic terms. They make it sound as if some ethnic groups are made up of devils. They demonise others in order to justify certain dubious and diabolical arguments which, in reality, are designed to advance their personal interests.”
By PROF. JULIUS IHONVBERE
wiping out the members, culture, values, and institutions of another ethnic group, no matter how small or weak, in multiethnic communities, it is even dangerous to attempt such a mission. As ethnic group A attacks and tries to eliminate or severely weaken-or contain ethnic group B, ethnic group C is preparing to do exactly same or worse to ethnic group A. This because a natural assumption is that when ethnic group A finishes with B, C may be the next. In this Context the attack on A could be unprovoked or some excuse will be found to justify the attack. The spiral continues culminating in destruction of life and property, instability, corruption, waste, and the containment of opportunities for growth and development. More importantly, no one, no matter how influential or wealthy can claim to be safe from ethnic conflicts or violence. Once the devil is let out of its cage, you never know where and when it would strike and who would be its next victim. This is why even those that plan such acts of violence often get consumed by it. Ethnic conflicts or ethnic relations are generally conditioned by: 1. History and historical experience including the interpretations of history; 2. The composition of social classes and the struggles within and between classes; 3. The direct struggle for power; 4. Demographical balances, the struggle for space and the politics of location; 5. Economic self-interest based on individual interest, collective or sub-group interest; 6. Cultureits organization, expression, and politicization; 7. Myths generated, circulated, and often almost
legitimated over time; 8. Poverty in all its ramifications; 9. Bad leadership, bad governance and corruption that breeds envy, anger, frustration and ethnic interpretations and perceptions of reality; 10. Political manipulation by powerful elites usually to advance self-interest; 11, Bad government policies that wittingly or otherwise punishes,
dialo 14. neostruc that educ mobi direc to leg postu histo susp confl 15 misc a mu
Prof Julius Ihonvbere
marginalizes, underdevelops and weakens a section of society and the politicization of such occurrences — recruitment, retrenchment, promotion, revenue allocation, location of industries or facilities, composition of cabinets, beneficiaries from scholarships; 12. Careless and i r r e s p o n s i b l e pronouncements by politicians and government officials against particular ethnic groups that inflame the passion for retaliation; 13. Breakdown or weakening of religious, traditional, and other community-based mediation and control mechanisms that culminate in the privileging of intolerance, violence and destruction in place of
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THE NIGERIAN
17
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
liation”
ogue and negotiation; . The reproduction of -colonial educational ctures and programmes do not provide cation for service, ilization, and unity but ctly and indirectly seek gitimate values, tastes, ures, misrepresented ory that deepen picion, hatred and lict; . Constitutional calculations...where, in ultiethnic society with
ome majority groups, minority groups are ignored nd the majorities are avoured; 16. The existence of hnically based political arties which is alright in a emocracy but could be angerous if such parties onstantly whip up ethnic entiments in order to urvive or remain relevant; 17. General insensitivity the plight, pains and cries f marginal ethnic groups here governments and ites tend to embrace a nicultural view of power nd governance. The possibilities above how that it is very mportant for leaders, olitical parties and overnments at all levels to ay special attention to thnic relations and to
design pragmatic and realistic short, medium and longer term programmes to ensure reconciliation, harmony and understanding. No matter how minuscule an ethnic group may be, they can cause grave damage to the image and peace of a society. The militants in the Niger Delta are not millions but you all know what they have so far cost this country internally and externally. MANAGING ETHNIC R E L A T I O N S :
TOWARDS ETHNIC RECONCILIATION The challenge of managing ethnic relations is not as complicated as we are often made to believe. It takes commitment, focus, and a democratic disposition to respond appropriately. More importantly, response policies must be anticipatory and not always responsive, after the fact. Around the world, below are some measures that have been used to manage ethnic, including racial, relations 1. Good governance transparent, accountable, and pro-people 2, Good leadership effective, honest, fair, accountable and Sensitive 3. True democratic
Midweek Magazine “With the quality of people, leaders, and resources available in Delta State, the living conditions ought to be better. But ethnic violence, rivalry, destruction, and other underhand strategies aimed at undermining each other have complicated, contaminated and compromised leadership options and public policies.” practice -anchored on dialogue and social justice 4. Constitutional protection and guarantees for all interest groups 5. Federalism or special political arrangements to protect minorities and vulnerable groups, including autonomy arrangements; 6. Affirmative action to allow weaker or smaller groups an opportunity to be part of the system; 7. Zoning or power rotation arrangements to give hope and meaning to the place and role of all ethnic groups; 8. Multiculturalism a deliberate programme designed to ensure autonomy of cultures and cultural interaction as state policy; 9. Economic e m p o w e r m e n t programmes, special loans, grants and other assistance; 10. Political appointments and balancing to ensure equal opportunity; 11. Education use of the school system to teach, if you like, preaches tolerance, understanding, inclusion and democracy; 12. Campaigns by political elites who, in virtually all statements must speak to the issues of oneness, unity, peace, love, and tolerance; 13. Political and administrative decentralization mostly away from the major urban centres. This reduces pressures on the centre, disperses responsibility, and builds a sense of belonging; 14. Support for civil society groups and encouragement to use their
location and relationships with the grassroot to promote webs and bridges of understanding and inclusion; 15. Legal provisions against discrimination, hate crimes and statements, and all forms of cultural discrimination; 16. Open statements by ethnic warlords, politicians, and leaders to the new perspective of harmony, tolerance, unity, and collective commitment to democracy and progress special meetings, community for a, press conferences, lectures, and other opportunities. The prescriptions above and more are dependent on the individuals, and how serous and honest they are to the cause of reconciliation. Constitutions, legal provisions, special policies, and other options would have to be implemented by persons. That is why it is critical that we get the right people into power. Reconciliation requires: 1. Honesty, leadership, truth, remorse, courage, dedication, and commitment to justice, equity, and peace; 2. Meeting the basic needs of all in society. The solution to hunger in all ethnic groups is the same: food. The solution to illhealth in all ethnic groups is the same — medical services. The solution to illiteracy in all ethnic groups is the same — education. The solution to ignorance in all ethnic groups is the game — information and communication. The
solution to alienation, political frustration and anger in all ethnic groups is the same: good leadership, good governance, honesty, truth and social justice. 3. Special structures or institutions dedicated to promoting true reconciliation; 4. Special policies and programmes that are knows to all that are designed to correct past errors and initiate flew ones; 5. Special campaigns, sustained over time and flexible to accommodate changes, all reflecting the new commitment, new vision, and new reality. 6, A new spirit of forgiveness and preparedness to break with the past. We all, as leaders, must search our hearts, look at the faces of the elders and children, the faces of the women and decide what is best. We all know that the interactions and engagements between the various ethnic groups in Delta state can only be to the benefit of all if truly well managed. If Delta is truly the BIG HEART of Nigeria, then it must behave as such. It is the people that make it a State and how we relate to one another determines a lot. It is not the best thing to be the subject of vile and embarrassing jokes by all comedians in the country. We want to hear comedians and musicians constantly saying good things about Delta Statea State that has given and continues to give so much to our dear country. It is not the best for a local government to be referred to as ‘I go die local government.” We all laugh when we hear these things, but it is a thing of shame. With the quality of people, leaders, and resources available in Delta State, the living conditions ought to be better. But ethnic violence, rivalry, destruction, and other underhand strategies aimed at undermining each other have complicated, contaminated and compromised leadership options and public policies. So, no matter the size of investments, federal allocation and internally generated revenues, Delta state may not develop if the ethnic rivalry, suspicions, conflicts, and destruction continue. This is just the plain truth. Now, we have a new opportunity to put the past behind us. A new opportunity to rebuild and refocus on an inclusive, tolerant and democratic society. This is the time to support our leaders to encourage them to deliver on all their promises This is the time to really touch-base with our people, give them hope and give meaning to their lives. We cannot hide from the society that we build with our hands and building our “personal prisons” — with high barbed-wire fences, bullet proof doors, personal boreholes, generators, security services and soon, will not protect us from the anger of the larger society. Even where the crime is perpetrated by a few, we, the elite take collective responsibility and will be collectively judged and punished by history. There is time to do better for the people and our society. Let Delta, like Kerala Province in India, where all classes, ethnic groups, sects and castes live together in peace and harmony, set the pace and example for others to follow. I know the people of this State very well, and I know you can do it.
“Now, we have a new opportunity to put the past behind us. A new opportunity to rebuild and refocus on an inclusive, tolerant and democratic society. This is the time to support our leaders to encourage them to deliver on all their promises This is the time to really touchbase with our people, give them hope and give meaning to their lives.”
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Economy
Achieving Economic Growth Via Cashless Policy
THE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007 charges the apex bank with the responsibility to control and administer the monetary and financial policies of the Federal Government. It is also to promote a sound financial system and advise government on economic policies. The Money Laundering Act, 2004 stipulates a cash payment regulation on transactions outside the financial institutions to ensure audit trail, as disincentive against money laundering. The section also stipulates a N500,000 benchmark for individuals and three million naira for corporate organisations. Analysts say that despite the existence of the Act, cases of money laundering are assuming alarming proportions in Nigeria. They, therefore, suggested an alternative payment channels that may have positive consequence on the economy and considerably eliminate cash frauds. To address the challenges associated with heavy cash handlings, the Bankers Committee in collaboration with the CBN recently commissioned a study that identified cost drivers in the industry. The study also sought the possibility of achieving 30 per cent cost reduction with attendant positive impact on lending rates and bank charges. According to the CBN, the objective of its new cashless policy was to seek reduction in cash transactions in the banking industry. The effect was to encourage bank customers to try other payment options than cash. Mr Tunde Lemo, CBN Deputy Governor (Operations), said that the policy was introduced for a number of key reasons, including meeting the Vision
2020 objectives which aims at positioning Nigeria among the first 20 global economies. Lemo told Gov. Theodore Orji of Abia that the CBN was seeking partnership with the state government in the implementation of the new policy. He said that the project also aimed at modernising Nigeria’s payment system by reducing the amount of physical cash in circulation. Other reasons, he said, included a reduction in the cost of banking services, improved effectiveness of monetary policy, reduce high security and safety risks, foster transparency and curb corruption in the polity. “In the wake of the banking industry intervention, our analysis indicated that the high cost structure of the banks was partially responsible for their preference for lending to the capital market, and oil and gas industry which led to asset bubbles. “Embedded within lending rates and cost of banking services are operating expenses arising from inefficiencies in the provision of banking services,’’ Lemo said. He noted that the cost of handling cash to Nigeria’s financial system was high and increasing annually. He noted that Nigeria was behind other comparable economies in terms of payment systems maturity. “This novel policy that aims at reducing the quantum of cash in circulation introduced a ‘processing fee’ on daily cash withdraws or cash deposits that exceeded N500, 000 for individuals and three million naira for corporate bodies was introduced. “By this policy, third party cheques above N150,000 are disallowed from being
By EMMANUEL ACHA
cashed over the counter, while banks have been mandated to discontinue cash in transit lodgment services as cash in transit firms have been incensed to provide such services. Lemo told the governor that
The avenues, they said, would include Point-OfSale Systems, Mobile Payments, Multi-functional Automated Teller Machines, Internet Banking, Instant Electronic Funds Transfer and Direct Debit. They also noted that
Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Minister of Finance
embassies and diplomatic missions were granted exemptions, adding that ministries, departments and agencies of the federal and state governments were also excluded on lodgments for revenue collections accounts only. He said that the new regime would significantly eliminate revenue leakages by identifying fraudulent debit, diversion of funds and excess charges on government accounts. Analysts have opined that there is no doubt that the policy would open more avenues for electronic-based transactions.
industry stakeholders were working to increase the alternative channel penetration, functionality and ease-of-use. Analysts are also of the view that mobile phone, the cheapest electronic channel, is the easiest route to financial inclusion of the unbanked segment of the economy. Available statistics shows there are over 100 million phones available to serve customers. They said that with mobile phones, both the banked and the unbanked could open accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, purchase goods and services.
“In the wake of the banking industry intervention, our analysis indicated that the high cost structure of the banks was partially responsible for their preference for lending to the capital market, and oil and gas industry which led to asset bubbles.”
However, this has thrown up some challenges, including literacy levels of prospective users of the scheme in terms of literacy and numeracy. Mr Lawrence Ukegbu, a businessman, said that the informal sector needed to be abreast with the policy in
a financial and stock analyst, said that the interest of the non-formal sector needed to be protected in the policy, while the rural areas should be given special attention in terms of education and other enlightenment campaigns. He expressed concern on the activities of cyber fraudsters who may leverage on the dependence on ‘new technology’ to carry out financial transactions. But Lemo allayed the fears,
Sanusi Lamido, CBN Governor
order to make the best out of it. He said it would impact positively on the business climate, adding that the business environment would be more secure as handling of cash was associated with much hazards. For Gov. Orji, the policy had thrown up much challenge to the banking sector as the gap between the educated and non-educated in the society would need to be breached for the success of the policy. Orji said that the state government would contribute towards the success of the project, and appealed for enlightenment of the populace. “There should be a lot of sensitisation, and if possible the CBN should establish an education unit at major industrial areas and strategic points,” he said. Mr Emmanuel Ogbonnaya,
saying that the CBN had through the instrumentality of the Nigerian Electronic Fraud Forum stepped-up surveillance on cyber fraud which, he noted, had reduced incidences of crime by 90 per cent. “We are in the process of acquiring a Payment System Oversight and Anti-Fraud System for online risk surveillance of the payment systems,” he said. He said that the apex bank was in the process of establishing the office of Ombudsman for financial services in order to strengthen users’ confidence and promote adoption of the policy. As Nigeria strives to become one of the top 20 economies in the world by 2020, analysts say there should be the desire for all to ensure the success of the new CBN cashless policy. (NAN).
THE NIGERIAN
19
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Natural Medicine
With
Dr. MAO
08030717341
Reducing Risk Of Cancer (1)
IF somebody tells you that there is 100% protection against cancer, he may be speaking the truth. Afterall, there has been remarkable verified cures of caner recorded in natural medicine. So, if you can cure a deadly disease like cancer, then you can safely say it is preventable. However, let’s not be too confident in matters of life. That is why I used the above headline in which I talk about reducing the risk of cancer. This risk is calibrated from 1% -99%. For different people. Therefore, the critical issue is: How do we reduce the risk of cancer? That is the question which, if well answered, could see you living a full healthy life without the troubles of cancer for one day. The first rule, although not the most important for cancer prevention is eating well. Ensure that 70-75% of your foods are consumed raw. Invariably, this means that your diet should consist largely of organic, fresh vegetables and fruits. So, watch it. If you overcook your vegetables, then you are on the wrong side of healthy nutrition, already. Also, you must realize that storing vegetables or fruits for a long time strips them of most of their nutrients. Furthermore, you should be wary of consuming unripe green fruits and immature vegetables now sold everywhere. Patronize only ripe, safe
vegetables/ fruits. When you eat a lot of fresh, ripe fruits and fully grown vegetables, you are guaranteed your daily requirements of nutrients that enables your body to grow, heal itself, rid itself of toxins as well as fight free radicals ravaging it. In passing, note that vegetables and fruits grown with inorganic fertilizers are not on my recommended list of fresh foods because they don’t provide natural, life giving nutrition. Also, be informed that one way of consuming fresh vegetables fruits is to juice them using a natural juice extractor that doesn’t destroy their molecular structures. I need to add that you must limit or stay away from artificial, processed foods as well as drinks. They are killers not savers of man. Still talking about what to eat reminds me about the need to be cautious with animal sources of protein. Reasons? The body finds it difficult to metabolise such a protein. Secondly, the digestion of animal protein leaves a residue of toxic sludge which the body cannot eliminate with ease. Thirdly, an excess of animal proteins and its sludge waste is a potential trigger for allergy and cancer. Fourthly, you often consume animal proteins along with dangerous fats and cholesterol. If you must eat animal proteins then you need a daily detox regime and super phytonutrients for
empowering your body to handle their metabolism, a better protein option is fish and plants. Try beans, groundnuts, mushrooms, spurilina, whey protein, chlorella of other proprietary products containing amino acids, end products of protein breakdown. Their proteins are biofriendly. Moreover to prevent cancer, avoid the modern habit of always frying
several degenerative illnesses. Much more, unknown to many sugar devotes, cancer cells love sugar just as they cherish deoxygenated environment within the body. Then, of course, sugar as a food acidifies the blood thus limiting its ability to carry oxygen to the cells of the body. The way forward here is to consume foods and drinks that alkalinize the
supplements in capsule form are available for boosting oxygen levels in the blood. Sufficient blood oxygen implies enhancing the activities of healthy, normal cells as well as providing a killer environment for cancer cells, fungi, yeast, bacteria or other unfriendly microorganisms which survive in non-oxygen capsules are beneficial for
most of us drink water of high acidity that is health damaging. As if this isn’t serious enough, we also drink sachet water kept in the sun or deep freezers forgetting that these practices expose us to ingesting deadly zenoestrogen implicated in cancer causation in addition to female infertility. At this juncture, I must
your foods. Fried foods are not only dead foods and difficult to digest, they contain a lot of transfats which contribute to the hardening of the arteries as well as hypertension and heart disorders. Also, there is the need to eliminate sugar from your diet. It is true sugar is sweet and is an appetite enhancer. But the flipside of sugar is that it is fattening and a cause of
body. Vegetables and fruits fall into this food category. In addition, we should cultivate the habit of exercising regularly. Exercise builds up muscle mass, physical endurance and lung capacity. Thus, it enables our lungs to inhale properly allowing the lower and upper lungs to fully benefit from breathing. Well, it may interest you to realize that food
o v e r c o m i n g deoxygenated blood or blood with insufficient oxygen which are breeding grounds for cancer cells, viruses, bacteria and lethal microorganisms. It is now time to discuss water. Water. Not many drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Yet this is the required quality of water bolism, detoxification of the body and graceful aging. Although, water is not food, the body needs it. Without it the body’s organs will knock. Death will follow. Not all water is beneficial for our health. The one chosen by natural medicine practitioner is the alkaline brand, unfortunately,
advise that soft drinks are no substitute for water. All the promotions saying that soft drinks are thirst breakers are untruthful. Only water really breaks thirst. Don’t forget soft drinks contain lots of sugar that is harmful to the body- a source of food for cancer cells. Additionally, have you ever bother to drill your borehole to the acquifer level where you find acceptable drinking water? And, do you bother to test all borehole water for heavy metals, micro-organisms and other toxic substances before you consider it fit for drinking? If you answers are No to these questions, then realize the water from your borehole may be carcinogenic!!
“Moreover to prevent cancer, avoid the modern habit of always frying your foods. Fried foods are not only dead foods and difficult to digest, they contain a lot of transfats which contribute to the hardening of the arteries as well as hypertension and heart disorders.”
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New Horizon
Teachings Of The Holy Quran (V)
OR (TAKE) the similitude of one who passed by a hamlet, all in ruins to its roots. He said, “Oh how shall Allah bring it (ever) to life, after (this) its death? But Allah caused him to die for a hundred years, then raised him up (again). He said: How long didst thou tarry (thus)? He said “(Perhaps) a day or part of a day” He said: “Nay then hast tarried thus a hundred years: but look at thy food and thy drink, they show no signs of age: and look at the donkey and that we may make of thee a Sign Unto the people. Look further at the bones, know we bring them together and clothe them with flesh.” When this was shown clearly to him, he said, I know that Allah hath power over all things. Behold Abraham said, “My Lord: show me how thou giveth life to the dead”. He said, Dost thou not then believe? He said: Yea but to satisfy my own heart.” He said, Take four birds, tie them (cut them into pieces), then put a portion of them, on every hill and call to them, they will come to thee (flying) with speed. Then know, that Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.” The parable of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn, it growth seven oars, and each oar hath a hundred grains. Allah giveth manifold increase to whom He pleased, and Allah careth for all and He knoweth all things. Those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah, and follow not up their gifts with reminders of their generosity or with injury — for them their reward is with their Lord, on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve. Kind words and covering of
faults are better than charity followed by injury. Allah is free of all wants, and He is Most Forbearing. 0 ye who believe, cancel not your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury — like the spend their wealth to be seen of men, but believe neither in Allah nor in the last Day. They are in Parable like a hard barren rock, on which is a little soil: on it falls heavy ran, which leaves it (just) a bare stone. They will be able to do nothing with ought they have earned. And Allah guided not those who reject faith. And the likeness of those who spend their wealth seeking to please Allah and to strengthen their souls, is as a garden, high and fertile: heavy rain falls on it but makes it yield a double increase of heavest, and if it receives not heavy rain, light moisture Sufficeth it. Allah seeth well whatever ye do. Does any of you wish that he should have a garden with date palms and vines and streamsflowing underneath, and all kinds of fruit, while he is stricken with old age, and his children are not strong (enough to look after themselves) — that it should be caught in a whirlwind, with fire therein, and be burnt up? Thus doth Allah make clear to you (His) Signs, that ye may consider. 0 ye who believe, give of the good things which ye have (honourably) earned, and of the fruits of the earth which We have produced for you, and do not aim at anything which is bad, out of it ye may give away something, ye yourselves would not receive it except with
With VICTOR ANIUKWU
closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of all wants, and Worthy of all praise. Satan threatens you with poverty and bids you to conduct unseemly. Allah promiseth you His
of) evil. And Allah is well acquainted with what ye do. It is not for you to guide them o the right path. But Allah guides to the right path whom He pleaseth. Whatever of good ye give benefits your own souls, and ye shall only do so seeking the “Face”
public, have their reward with their Lord, on them shall be nor fear, no shall they grieve. Those who devour usury will not stand except as stands one whom the Satan by his touch hath driven to madness. That is because they say, “Trade is like usury”, but Allah hath permitted trade and forbidden usury. Those who after receiving
demand for usury, if ye are indeed believers. If ye do it not, take notice of war from Allah and His Messenger, hut if ye repent ye shall have your capital sums, deal not unjustly and ye shall not be dealt with unjustly. If the debtor is in a difficulty, grant him time till it is easy for him to pay. But if ye remit it by way of charity, that is
forgiveness and bounties. And Allah careth for all and He knoweth all things. He granteth wisdom to whom He pleaseth, and he to whom wisdom is granted receiveth indeed a benefit overflowing, but none will receive admonition but men of understanding. And whatever ye spend in charity or whatever vow you make, be sure Allah knows it all. But the wrong — doers have no helpers, if ye disclose (acts of) charity, even so it is well, but if ye conceal them, and make them reach those (really) in need, that is best for you. It will remove from you some of your (stains
of Allah. Whatever good ye give, shall be rendered back to you, and ye shall not be dealt with unjustly. (Charity is) for those in need, who, in Allah’s cause are restricted (from travel). And cannot move about in the land, seeking (for trade or work), the ignorant man thinks, because of their modesty, that they are free from want. Thou shall know them by their (unfailing) mark, they beg not importunately from all and Sundry. And whatever of good ye give be assured Allah knoweth it well. Those who (in charity) spend of their goods by night and by day, in secret and in
admonition from their Lord, desist, shall be pardoned for the past, their case is for Allah (to judge), but those who repeat (the offence) are Companions of the Fire, they will abide therein (forever). Allah will deprive usury of all blessing, but will give increase for deeds of charity, for He loveth not any ungrateful sinner. Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness and establish regular prayers and give Zakat, will have their reward with their Lord, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. 0 ye who believe, fear Allah, and give up what remains of your
best for you if ye only knew. And fear the Day when ye shall be brought back to Allah. Then shall every soul be paid what it earned, and none shall be dealt with unjustly. 0 ye who believe, when ye deal with each other, in transactions involving future obligations in a fixed period of time, reduce them to writing. Let a scribe write down faithfully as been the parties, let not the scribe refuse to write, as Allah has taught him, so let him write. Let him who incurs the liability dictate, but let him fear Allah, his Lord and not diminish aught of what Continues on page 24
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Place Of Prayer The Ingredients Of Intimacy (4) THIS week, we continue this series of the Ingredients of Intimacy with a detailed discussion of the-fourth ingredient of intimacy which is MEDITATIVE STUDY. Meditation is deep thought about a significant truth, relevant to your expectation. Every product we see on earth today is a reflection of meditation. Scientists discover a scientific truth, meditate on it and expand/ improve upon it. In intimacy, we are expected to meditate on God’s word to obtain vital nutrients required for spiritual development. Importance of Meditation The importance of meditating on God’s word is revealed in the following scriptural references: 1Timothy 4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all 1. Meditation brings profiting. Psalms 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 2. Meditation brings about flourishing 3. Meditation sustains your increase (It brings establishment) 4. Meditation brings evidence of labour S. Meditation brings prosperity Psalm 119:97-100 O how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments host made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts. 6. Meditation gives you an edge over all your adversaries 7. Meditation makes you excellent in all you do 8. Meditation gives you wisdom above those that are older than you Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9. Meditation makes you prosperous 10. Meditation gives you success that is not contestable Psalms 63:5-6
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches. 11. Marrow and fatness stands for anointing. Meditating on God’s word brings anointing. 12. Meditation brings celebration and testimonies Activities Of Meditation There are four major activities of meditation. They are Memorization, Visualization, Verbalization and Declaration. Memorization James 1:22-25- But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straight way forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. Memorization means to learn and remember something. It means to commit something to memory. Memorization involves Forcing remembrance of a discovered truth. Anything you can’t remember, you can’t manifest. Reminding yourself of the information under consideration involves always taking your mind back to what you have studied long after the study is ended. If you cannot remember what you have studied, it means the study did not profit you. Force yourself to remember what you have read; keep going back to the devotional material every time you forget what you have discovered until the revelation discovered becomes a part of you. Visualization Until you see the picture from the scripture you cannot secure your future. Until you see God’s word, He will not hasten the performance. You must see pictures from the scripture for there to be performance. Jeremiah 1:12- Then said the LORD unto me, Thou host well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it. Genesis 13:14-15- And the LORD said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou an northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. Exodus 7:1- And the LORD said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and
With Pastor Samuel O. Osaghae
Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet. Visualization means using your eye to picture what you want to see, It means picturing the scripture; seeing the word. If you do not see the word, God will not perform. Use your mind to frame (picture) out the scripture. In Habakkuk 2:1, the Prophet Habakkuk said; “1 will stand upon my watch to see what he will say. Visualization involves using your mind to create a picture of the reality (The power of Imagination). Even if what you seek is not yet obvious, you use your mind to form the picture of the real thing.
expectation pushes back the enemy of your manifestation. This affects your enemy. Until a newlywed sister begins to tell everyone around her of her changed status, some young men may still flirt with her thinking she is single. A Pastor friend of mine shared with me his hunting experience in the forest with a native South African guide. While hunting, they were confronted by a lion. But rather than run away at the sight of the lion, the native South African man, stopped in his tracks and roared at the lion from deep within. The sound was so powerful. As soon as the lion
bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more.. The deceptive pattern of the devil is this: • He tries to deceive man about the knowledge of God. 2Corinthians 11:3- But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be
Peter knew who Jesus was and Jesus revealed that he had the revelation on which His church would be built). Benefits of Meditating on Who You Are in Christ • You will begin to manifest your sonship and godship (Psalms 82:5-7- They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on n darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out
You keep seeing your expectation with your mind’s eye until your desire becomes a reality and becomes obvious to all. Verbalization Romans 10:10- For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Psalm 116:10-I believed, therefore have I spoken... Verbalization involves speaking to yourself. If you say something continuously, your body tends to absorb it. As you speak to yourself, you create an atmosphere of success around yourself. Speaking to yourself will make the issues under consideration stick to your mind and will create the right ecology for your growth. For instance, if you keep saying you will slap someone, you will finally slap the person. The action comes forth as a result of your continued verbalization. What you keep speaking forth will eventually take root in your life and manifest. Declaration Declaration involves a shouting out of a significant truth relevant to your manifestation. It involves roaring the word of God to stop the enemy. This is a loud shout of discovered revelation. Roaring your
heard the roar, it took to flight. The lion defeats his prey by roaring at them; thereby putting fear in them. The instrument of the lion was used against it in this case. Declaration pushes back things that would have opposed the truth you discovered. Declaration affects your opposition. Shout what you want to see. Roar your belief. Roar who you are on the contradiction and the contradiction will disappear. Verbalization affects you for compliance, but declaration affects contradiction for compliance. As you verbalize the truth you have discovered, your body will adjust to that truth, but when you speak it out, it stops contradictions from stopping the manifestation of what you are believing God for. Special Areas of Meditation The devil has been a deceiver from the beginning; and even now, the only tool at his disposal is the instrument of deception. That is the only thing remaining that the Lord Jesus will deal with on his return. See Revelation 20:1-3- And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the
corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. • He tries to prevent man from gaining knowledge of his identity in Christ. Palms 82:57- They know not neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course. I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes. • He trivializing the consequences of violation of instruction. EccI 10:8- He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breoketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him. Romans 6:23- For the wages of sin’s death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Benefits of Meditating on God • You will increase in anointing (Psalms 63:5-6- My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches). • You will be strengthened for exploits (Daniel 11:32- ... but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits). • You will be firmly rooted in Christ and will not be shaken easily. (In Matthew 16:15-18,
of course. I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes). • You will gain knowledge that will save you from destruction (Hosea 4:6- My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge...) Benefits of Meditating on Your responsibility • Your way will become prosperous and you will have good success (Joshua 1:8- This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success). • You will have eternal life (Romans 6:23- For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord). Although on God’s assignment the man of God from Judah was killed by a lion on his way back home because he disobeyed God’s instruction not to eat or drink in the course of the assignment. The same Prophet that had exercised so much authority died like an ordinary man because he did not keep to instruction (See full account in l Kings 13:1-26).
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THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
International Typhoon Nari Hits Vietnam, 122,000 People Evacuated
A man sorts through the remains of his home, which collapsed because of Typhoon Nari, in Vietnam’s central Danang city yesterday.
HANOI - Typhoon Nari knocked down trees and damaged hundreds of houses in central Vietnam early yesterday, forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of people, state media said. More than 122,000 people had been moved to safe ground in several provinces, including Quang Nam and Danang city, by late Monday before the typhoon arrived, the official Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reported. Nari later hit the Vietnamese coast with wind speeds of up to 102 kmh (63 mph). Soldiers were sent to help people reinforce their homes and guide ships to shelter in Danang,
Mining Magnate Gives $62m To Aussie Universities
PERTH, Australia — Mining magnate Andrew Forrest pledged yesterday to give 65 million Australian dollars ($62 million) to university education in his home state in one of Australia’s largest philanthropic donations. The chairman of iron ore miner Fortescue Metals Group said AU$50 million will be used to establish the Forrest Foundation to fund scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships at all five universities in Western Australia state. Another AU$15 million will
build a residence for rising star researchers called Forrest Hall at St. George’s College at the University of Western Australia. BRW magazine this year ranked Forrest, widely known by his nickname Twiggy, as Australia’s 9th richest person with a fortune estimated at AU$3.7 billion. Forrest, a 52-year-old entrepreneur who graduated from the University of Western
Australia in 1983 with an economics degree, said Australia needed to develop a higher-profile philanthropic culture. “Let us all never forget that only education can be the final key to eliminate poverty in the world and raise the universal standard of living, ultimately to increase the nobility of the human cause,” Forrest said in a statement. Forrest and his wife Nicola are the first Australians to join “The
Jailing Of Wheel Chair-Bound Beijing Bomber Sparks Anger
BEIJING - A Chinese man in a wheelchair who detonated a home-made bomb in Beijing’s airport after trying to draw attention to a nearly decade-long legal battle was sentenced to six years in jail, his lawyer said yesterday, sparking widespread sympathy and anger. A Beijing court found Ji Zhongxing, 34, guilty of intentionally causing an explosion, Ji’s lawyer, Liu Xiaoyuan, told Reuters by telephone. State media confirmed the sentence. Ji detonated the bomb at Beijing airport after being prevented from handing out leaflets that drew attention to his complaints. His case struck a chord with many Chinese seeking justice in an inflexible political system. Ji, from eastern Shandong province, had been seeking redress for a claimed beating by police in southern Guangdong province dating back to 2005 that left him wheelchair-bound. He had been petitioning for justice ever since.
Detonating the bomb at Beijing’s main airport ensured widespread exposure for Ji, even though he and a policeman who received slight wounds were the only people hurt. He faced a maximum sentence of 10 years. “We believe that this verdict is questionable,” Liu said, adding that Ji did not intend to blow up the airport or commit suicide. “During the trial, (authorities) did not seek to find out the facts,” Liu said. “Although it was mentioned in the verdict statement, they never fully considered or discovered the cause of the bombing at the airport.” Liu said Ji, who was wheeled into court on a stretcher, said he would consider appealing against the decision. He has 10 days to file an appeal. Ji’s sentence comes weeks after the execution of a Chinese kebab vendor, who was convicted of killing two city officials, sparked public
criticism of a justice system said to punish the poor harshly while letting the rich and powerful off more lightly. “What we want to know more is: How will those assailants who injured him in the first place be punished?” Chen Haodong, vice dean of an art school in southern Guangdong province, wrote on his microblog. Gong Liegang, a lawyer based in Kunming, the capital of southwestern Yunnan province, called the sentence “abnormally harsh” and described Ji as “a vulnerable person” who had no other way to protect his rights. Chinese unable to win redress for grievances have in the past resorted to extreme measures, including bombings, but such incidents are rare because of tight state security. Ji’s protest had come just days after security workers apparently beat to death a watermelon vendor in southern Hunan province in a dispute over where he could sell his fruit. Both cases have drawn public criticism about official abuse of power.
Giving Pledge” movement founded by Microsoft Corp. cofounder Bill Gates and investor Warren Buffett, the head of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. The pledge commits billionaires to donate most of their wealth to charity. Anna Draffin, deputy chief executive officer of the charity umbrella group Philanthropy Australia, described the Forrest gift as the biggest ever philanthropic donation from an Australian. Only Irish-American businessman and philanthropist Chuck Feeney has been more generous in Australia, donating AU$500 million toward mostly higher education and medical research projects.
a famous tourist destination, state-run Voice of Vietnam radio said. More than 2,000 passengers were stranded when national carrier Vietnam Airlines canceled 14 flights on Monday and planned to delay another eight yesterday, the airline said in a statement. Vietnam’s central region is widely exposed to the sea and is
often hit during the storm season between July and October. Typhoon Nari did not affect the Central Highlands, Vietnam’s coffee belt, which lies further to the south. Nari was moving west at about 15 kmh (10 mph) and was expected to weaken into a tropical depression later yesterday, the national weather station said.
KABUL, Afghanistan— A bomb planted inside a mosque killed the governor of Afghanistan’s eastern Logar province as he was delivering a speech yesterday morning to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid alAdha, officials said. The explosion at the main mosque in the provincial capital of Puli Alam killed Governor Arsallah Jamal and wounded 15 people — five of them critically, said the governor’s spokesman, Din Mohammad Darwesh. Jamal, 47, was a close confidant of President Hamid Karzai and served as his campaign manager during the 2009 presidential elections. He also served as governor of eastern Khost province until he was appointed to his current post in Logar in April. A high-profile target, he had survived a number of assassination attempts in the past, including with suicide bombings. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack but the Taliban have been targeting
Afghan officials, military and NATO troops as part of their campaign to retake territory as international troops draw down ahead of a full pullout at the end of 2014. Tuesday’s explosion took place as Jamal was speaking inside the mosque to worshippers gathered for one of Islam’s holiest days, said Logar’s deputy police chief, Rais Khan Abbul Rahimzai. The bomb was apparently planted inside the microphone in the front part of the mosque, said two officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media. Jamal was recently in the spotlight following his revelation that a senior commander of the Pakistani Taliban was taken into custody by American forces in Logar province on Oct. 5. U.S. officials confirmed that Latif Mehsud, a leader of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, was captured by U.S. forces in a military operation.
Bombing At Mosque Kills Afghan Governor
Australian billionaire, Andrew Forrest speaks at a function in Sydney where the mining magnate pledged yesterday to give $62m to university education in his home state.
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International Syria Fighting Rages Despite Major Muslim Holiday DAMASCUS— Syrian warplanes bombed several rebelheld areas yesterday and opposition fighters fired mortar rounds and homemade rockets at Damascus at the start of a major Muslim holiday, activists said. The fighting during Eid alAdha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, showed how entrenched both sides have become in Syria’s civil war, now in its third year. Previously, combatants occasionally attempted to observe
holiday cease-fires. The Syrian conflict, which began as a largely peaceful uprising against President Bashar Assad in March 2011, has claimed more than 100,000 lives and displaced millions of Syrians. The land is now a patchwork of rebel- and regime-controlled areas, with front-lines crisscrossing the country. On Monday, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said the
Mother Of Jailed Missionary Pleads With US For Help
PYONGYANG - The mother of a U.S. missionary jailed in North Korea for state subversion pleaded yesterday for the U.S. government to help secure her ailing son’s release as she ended a trip to see him. Kenneth Bae, who was born in South Korea but is a naturalized U.S. citizen, was arrested late last year while on a visit to North Korea and sentenced to hard labor for 15 years in May. North Korean media said his missionary activity constituted a crime against the state. His mother, Myunghee Bae, last week traveled to North Korea to see him. “I was happy to see him and to hold him, but it broke my heart to leave him behind. I am more anxious than ever to bring him home,” she said in a statement on a family-run website campaigning for his release. “I plead with our government to do everything in their power to secure my son’s release soon.” Kenneth Bae, 45, was recently moved from prison to a hospital in the capital, Pyongyang, after his health began to deteriorate. Myunghee Bae said she had wrapped up her trip after visiting her son three times and his health was improving. It was not clear from the statement if she had already left North Korea. Bae was sentenced amid a long series of acrimonious exchanges between North Korea and the
United States over North Korea’s nuclear program. In August, a planned trip by Robert King, U.S. special envoy on North Korean human rights issues, to try to negotiate Bae’s release, was canceled by North Korea. After Bae was sentenced, North Korea state media quoted a court official as saying he had been using his tourism business to form groups aimed at overthrowing the government. Bae has acknowledged being a missionary and has said he conducted religious services in the North, which is hostile to outsiders advocating religious causes within its tightly controlled political system.
Syrian regime and the exile-based political opposition must try to meet a mid-November target date for launching talks on a political transition. However, there is no clear path toward such negotiations, and the main Western-backed opposition group hasn’t decided whether to attend. In yesterday’s fighting, rebels fired mortar rounds and homemade rockets at three Damascus neighborhoods, said the Britainbased Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which gathers information from activists on the ground. An amateur video distributed by
the group shows three rockets being fired, trailed by smoke, and the narrator saying the target is Damascus. Rebels routinely fire mortar shells at government-held areas of the Syrian capital. On Monday evening, a motorcycle packed with explosives blew up in the government-controlled Damascus area of al-Mazzeh, wounding 10 people, Syria’s state news agency SANA reported. It said the blast damaged several cars. Also yesterday, regime warplanes bombed targets in the village of Latamneh in the
northern Hama province, the Observatory said. Three children were killed and several people were wounded, the group said. The regime also bombed areas of the Eastern Ghouta district, near Damascus, but there were no immediate reports of casualties there. As the fighting continued, Assad attended holiday prayers in a Damascus mosque. Syrian state TV showed him sitting cross-legged on the floor, in the front row of worshippers. Assad continues to appear in public, apparently to send a message of “business as usual” even as large parts of Syria lie in
An armed forces of Malta ship carrying rescued migrants arrives at the AFM Maritime Squadron base at Haywharf in Valletta’s Marsamxett Harbour.
Myanmar Probes Suspected Bomb Blast At Luxury Hotel
RANGON-Myanmar was investigating yesterday a suspected bomb blast at a luxury Yangon hotel that wounded a US woman, the latest in a series of explosions in the former military-ruled nation. Authorities said the recent incidents could be aimed at derailing the country’s prodemocratic reforms as it prepares to host a major regional sporting event and take the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The injured American was
taken to hospital with wounds on her thigh and her hand after the blast ripped through a guest room at the Traders Hotel in central Yangon late on Monday, police said. “We assume that it was a bomb blast but we are still trying to find out more information,” a police official at the scene who did not want to be named told AFP. Military officials and soldiers with sniffer dogs were seen at the hotel while shattered glass covered the road outside.
-Myanmar troops stand guard after an explosion in Traders Hotel, Yangon Monday.
The hotel, part of the ShangriLa group, is located in the heart of Myanmar’s commercial hub. It is popular with foreign tourists and visiting business people. The incident followed a series of earlier bomb blasts but it is not clear who is behind them. A man and a woman were killed and another person injured in an explosion Friday at a guesthouse in the town of Taunggu, about 65 kilometres (40 miles) from the capital Naypyidaw, police said. Two other devices exploded in Yangon on Sunday — one at a bus stop and another under a truck, which wounded two teenagers, according to authorities. Two more makeshift devices were found in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay on Monday. “We cannot say who is responsible for these acts,” said Police Lieutenant General Min Aung of the Myanmar Police Force’s intelligence and security department. “We’re still investigating. The system they used is the same in all the cases. We think an organisation or a person planted them all,” he told AFP by telephone from Naypyidaw on Monday, speaking before the blast at the Traders Hotel. Bomb blasts were relatively
common under the former junta, which usually blamed the explosions on armed exile groups or ethnic rebels. Three bombs rocked a park in Yangon in April 2010 as thousands of revellers celebrated an annual water festival, leaving 10 people dead and dozens wounded. But such explosions had become rare under a new quasicivilian government which took power in 2011 promising political reforms and efforts to end long-running ethnic insurgencies. Presidential spokesman Ye Htut said the recent bombs were intended to spread fear. “I think that someone or some organisation asked some people to explode the bombs,” he told Radio Free Asia’s Myanmar Service, saying they had done it “with the intention of making people worried and scared”. “I think that the explosions may have been timed to coincide with Myanmar becoming the chair of ASEAN and getting ready to host the Southeast Asian Games, to make the international community misunderstand the situation of stability and peace in Myanmar,” said Ye Htut. yanmar last week officially assumed the chairmanship of the ASEAN regional bloc for 2014. In December it will welcome athletes and sports fans to Naypyidaw for the Southeast Asian Games.
ruins. Kerry reiterated Monday that Assad “has lost the legitimacy to be able to be a cohesive force that could bring people together.” However, the Syrian leader, with strong backing from Russia, has rejected repeated calls to step aside. Meanwhile, Syrian refugees marked a subdued holiday in the Zaatari tent camp in Jordan. The camp is home to more than 120,000 refugees and has turned into Jordan’s fourth-largest city.
Italy Rescues 300 Migrants,
ROME - Italy’s navy rescued about 300 migrants in the waters between Sicily and Libya yesterday as the government deployed ships, helicopters and unmanned drones to help avert further shipwrecks that have already drowned hundreds this month. A naval frigate and a patrol boat set out late on Monday when two separate migrant boats used satellite phones to call for help, a navy statement said. They were recovered and brought to the southern island of Lampedusa yesterday. The boats risked the dangerous sea passage despite a shipwreck on October 3 that killed more than 360, mostly Eritreans, less than a kilometer from Lampedusa. Last Friday, at least 34 more migrants drowned when their boat capsized, though the true figure may be above 200. Lampedusa, which lies southwest of Sicily and just 70 miles from the coast of Tunisia, has been a stepping stone for migrants seeking a better life in Europe for two decades. Now the Syrian civil war and unrest in Egypt and other Arab and African countries are fuelling the flow of refugees, many of whom have to pass through an increasingly unstable Libya. To try to stem the flow of rickety boats and prevent further tragedies, Italy began yesterday to ramp up its military presence in the waters between Italy, Tunisia and Libya. Italy will deploy an amphibious assault ship with an on-board hospital and long-range helicopters, five more naval vessels, several more helicopters and an airplane equipped with night-vision, plus unmanned drone aircraft. “It will be a military and humanitarian operation to reinforce surveillance and rescue capabilities in the open sea which will increase safety levels and save lives,” Defense Minister Mario Mauro said late on Monday when the plan was agreed. However, humanitarian organizations are concerned about an increased militarization of the border. It may save refugees from drowning, but it may also leave more of them stranded in the Sahara desert or delivered into the hands of Libyan militias and crime groups, which are known to have beaten, raped and imprisoned migrants in the past.
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
New Horizon
Continued from page 20
he owes. If the party liable is mentally deficient, or weak, or unable himself to dictate, let his guardian dictate faithfully. And get to witnesses, out of your own men. And if there are not two men, then a man and two women, such as ye choose, for witnesses, so that if one of them errs, the other can remind her. The witnesses should not refuse when they are called on (for evidence). Disdain not to reduce to writing (your contract) for a future period, whether it be small or big, it is juster in the sight of Allah, more suitable as evidence, and more convenient to prevent debts among yourselves, but if it be a transaction which ye carry out on the spot among yourselves, there is no blame on you if ye reduce it not to writing. But take witnesses whenever ye make a commercial contract, and let neither scribe nor witness suffer harm. If ye do (such harm), it would b wickedness in you. So fear Allah, for it is Allah that teaches you. And Allah is well acquainted with all things. If ye are on a journey, and cannot find a scribe, a pledge with possession (may serve the purpose). And if one of you deposits a thing on trust with another, let the trustee (faithfully) discharge his trust, and let him fear Allah his Lord. Conceal not evidence for whoever conceals it- his heart is tainted with sin. And Allah knoweth all that ye do. To Allah belongeth all that is in the heavens and on earth. Whether ye show what is in your minds or conceal it, Allah calleth you to account for it. He forgiveth whom He pleaseth and punisheth whom he punisheth. For Allah bath power over all things. The messenger
believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith, each one (of them) believeth in Allah, 1 us angels, His books, and His Messengers. “We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of his Messengers”. And they Say,” We hear, and we obey. (We seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys”. On no soul doth Allah place a burden greater than it can bear. It gets every good that it earns, and it suffers every ill that it earns.(Pray) Our Lord, condemn us not if we forget or fall into error, our Lord lay not on us a burden like that which Thou did’st lay on those before us. Our Lord, lay not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Blot out our Sins, and grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our protector, grant us victory over the unbelievers. In the name of Allah, most Gracious, Most Merciful. Allah, there is not god but He, the living, the Self substaining, the Supporter of all. It is He who sent down to thee (step by step), in truth, the Book confirming what went before it, and He sent down the Torah (of Moses) and the Gospel (of Jesus). Before this, as a guide to mankind, and He sent down the Criterion (of judgment between right and wrong). Then those who reject Faith in the Signs of Allah will suffer the severest chastisement and Allah is Exalted in Might. Lord of Retribution. From Allah, verily nothing is hidden on earth or in the heavens. He it is who shapes you in the wombs as He pleases. There is no god but He, the Exalted in Might, the Wise. He it is who has
... Of The Holy Quran (V) sent down to thee the Book, in it are verses basic or fundamental clear (in meaning), they are the foundation of the Book, others are not entirely clear. But those in whose hearts is perversity follow the part thereof that is not entirely clear. Seeking discord, and searching for its interpretation, but
neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah, they are themselves but fuel for the fire. (Their plight will be) no better than that of the people of Pharaoh, and their predecessors, they denied our Signs, and Allah called them to account for their sins. For Allah is strict in
— tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world’s life, but with Allah is the best of the goals (to return to). Say, shall I give you glad tidings of things far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord with rivers flowing beneath, therein is their
on justice. There is no god but He, the Exalted in Power, the Wise. The Religion before Allah is Islam (submission to His Will), nor did the People of the Book dissent therefrom except through envy of each other, after knowledge had come to them. But if they deny
no one knows its true meanings except Allah. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say, “We believe in it, the whole of it is from our Lord”, and none will grasp the Message except men of understanding. “0 Lord (they say) let not our hearts deviate now after Thou hast guided us, but grant us mercy from Thee, for thou art the Grantor of bounties without measure. “Our Lord, thou art He that will gather mankind together against a day about which there is no doubt, for Allah never fails in His promise” Those who reject faith,
punishment. Say to those who reject faith, “Soon will ye he vanquished and gathered together to Hell, an evil bed indeed (to lie on). There has already been for you a Sign in the two armies that met (in combat), one was fighting in the cause of Allah, the other resisting Allah, these saw with their own eyes twice their number. But Allah doth support with His aid whom He pleaseth. In this is a lesson for such as have eyes to see. Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet, women and sons, heaped-up hoards o( gold and silver, horse branded (for blood and excellence), and’ (wealth of) cattle and well
eternal home, with spouses purified and the good pleasure of Allah. For in Allah’s sight are (all) His servants. (Namely) those who say, “Our Lord we have indeed believed, forgive us, then, our sins, and save us from the agony of the fire”. Those who show patience, (Firmness and self-control), who are true (in word and deed), who worship devoutly, who spend (in the way of Allah), and who pray f or forgiveness in the early hours of the morning. There is no god but He, that is the witness of Allah, His angels, and those endued with knowledge, standing firm
the Signs of Allah, Allah is swift in calling to account. So if they dispute with thee, say, “1 have submitted my whole self to Allah and so have those who follow me.” And say to the people of the Book and to those who are unlearned, Do ye (also) submit yourselves? If they do, they are in right guidance, but if they turn back, thy duty is to convey the message, and in Allah’s sight are (all) His servants. Footnote — Allah is swift in calling anyone to account for his or her deeds — “Forewarned is Forearmed”.
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Opinion SINCE childhood, we’ve been trained to resist that dreaded enemy of teeth called plaque. Regular Brushing and flossing are sure bet for dental health. What else could you be doing or avoiding to keep plaque off your knockout smile? According to WebMD, keeping plaque off your teeth is not complicated, but consistency is key,” says Richard Price, DMD, spokesman for the American Dental Association. “Good habits make for healthy teeth for most people, it’s that simple. What is Tooth Plaque? Plaque is a sticky mix of bacteria and the substances they secrets. Bacteria produce adhesive, chemicals called mucopoly saccharides (Long Chains of sugar molecules that are found throughout the body, often in mucus and in fluid around the joints). The bacteria then live in this film on teeth, called a biofilm. At first, this slimy layer is fragile and easily removed by tooth brushing. “Think of the film on a fish tank wall. It’s easy to wipe off with a washcloth, if you’re vigilant,” says Price. And if you’re not? The bacteria in tooth plaque are free to release acids that damage tooth enamel. Regular acids assaults on enamel can wear holes in teeth, commonly called cavities. If left alone, plaque build up also gradually hardens, creating tartar or calculus on your teeth. Tartar is petrified plaques, once it’s there, you need a
Keeping Plaque Off Your Teeth dentist’s help, tartar can’t be brushed off. Tartar above the gum line also contributes to gingivitis, which is gum disease. The secrets to avoiding plaque build up aren’t so secret. You’ve probably been hearing most of them since before you lost your baby teeth. But bad habits have a way of sneaking up on us. Make sure you’re pushing back against plaque by avoiding these five bad habits for tooth health. Plaque Habit No 1: Not Brushing Regularly No one else might notice if you don’t brush your teeth twice a day, everyday. But your teeth will. “Plaque is a little like bees in the summertime, one or two won’t really bother you, but if you let them build a bee hive in the backyard, you’ve got a problem.” Brush your teeth twice a day gently, using a fluoride – containing toothpaste. The exact technique isn’t as important as concentrating to make sure you’re softly brushing all the surfaces of your teeth. Plaque Habit No2: Not Flossing Each Day Brushing doesn’t reach the spaces between teeth, but plaque does. A simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage. Flossing also cleans
By ISEMHENBITA FAITH plaque at the gum line, another area that brushing doesn’t reach, if left alone, plaque below the gum line can lead to periodontal disease. If you just can’t stand flossing your teeth, consider using one of the many other approval products to clean between your teeth each day. Plaque Habit No.3: Not Using Rinses Mouth rinses with fluoride have been shown to prevent decay. Antibacterial rinses reduce plaque and gingivitis and attack bad breath. Keep brushing and flossing, and if you haven’t already, add a mouth rinse, such as an antimicrobial or a fluoride rinse (not just a mouth wash), for a triple against teeth destroyers. Plaque Habit No 4: Avoiding The Dentist Even if you brush and floss your teeth plaque hardens into tartar that needs to be removed at your dentist’s office. Yet more than a third of people surveyed haven’t seen their dentist in more than a year. Studies show that in general, people who neglect regular dentist visits get more cavities and have a higher chance of losing their teeth. Once a year teeth cleanings are considered the minimum. Twice a year teeth cleanings may be better for many people.
5:
certain foods played a role in keeping plaque off of teeth. Eating crunching vegetables or fruits with the skin on can scrub off plaque. Carrots, apples, cucumbers, and many other
Neglecting Nature’s Toothbrushes Long before tooth brushes and fluoride tooth paste existed,
raw fruits and vegetables are teeth friendly, despite the sugar they contain. In addition, a diet high in
Most dentists recommend twice a year cleanings or more. Plaque
habit
No.
Things A True Friend Will Never Do AN Acquaintance has a little something in common with you and merely enjoys your company for a short time. A fair – weather friend flatters you when the sun is shining and the birds are chirping. A true friend, on the other hand, has your very best interests at heart and to me they would never do the following below to you if truly they are true friends to you. According to Marc Chernoff, here are the things a true friend will never do. 1-Criticise You For Being Flawed As flawed as you might be, or out of place as you sometimes feel and as lacking as you think you are, you don’t have to hide all the imperfect pieces of your self from a true friend. They see your flaws as features that make you interesting and beautiful. The quality of the happiness between two people grows in direct proportion to their acceptance, and in inverse
By BEAUTY O. OBAMWONYI
proportion to their intolerance and expectations. True friends loves and appreciate each other just the way they are, irrespective of their tribes, country, dialect, religion and tradition etc. WALK AWAY WHEN TIMES ACT TOUGH According to proverbs 17:17a a friend loves at all times. It means if you are a true friends you are not suppose to walk away when the sweet times are gone. True friendship and good character is all about how a person nurtures another person when they are vulnerable and can give very little in return. Thus, its not who’s standing beside you during good times. But the ones who stick by you through tough times that are your true friends. So take note of who remains in your life when times get tough, especially the people who
sacrifice the resources they have in their life to help you improve yours when you need it most. Seriously, when you come out the other side of a difficult period in your life look around you. The people still standing beside you are your true friends. DISCOURAGE YOU Unfortunately for some who seems like your friends will try to hold you back from your full potential. It may be difficult, but don’t let these negative imposters who parade themselves as your friend bring
you down. Don’t ever let your so-called friends turn your sky into a ceiling. Beware of friend who try to belittle your ambitions. Small hearts and minds always do that. The greatest hearts and minds the people you should spend time around- make you feel that you too can become great, remember. Encouraging things happen when you distance yourself from discouraging people. Doing so doesn’t mean you hate them, it simply means you respect yourself. HOLD A GRUDGE OVER
YOUR HEAD Grudge is one thing that affects friendship, relationship and even marriages, because some people will refuse to accept that you are no longer who you used to be that you’ve made mistakes in the past, learned from them, and moved beyond them. They may not be able to stand the fact that you re-growing and moving on with your life, and so they will try to drag your past to catch up with you. Do not help them by acknowledging their begrudging behaviour let go of their negativity find peace and liberate or free your self.
fruits and vegetables and low in processed foods protects you from obesity, heart disease, and cancer. Plaque Habit No. 6: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth Bacteria love simple carbohydrates like sugar. Eating candy or drinking sugary soft drinks lets sugar stick to our teeth, giving bacteria something to munch on. As the bacteria create a film of plaque, they digest sugar into acid, which damages teeth. All sugary candy, and most junk food in general, contribute to plaque formation. Highsugar foods or drinks that are also soft or sticky are especially problematic. Sugary soft drinks might be about the worst thing you can put on your teeth. Avoiding these six bad habits can help you keep plaque in check (and keep your teeth). You may also want to talk about sealants with your dentist. The pits and fissures on molars can be difficult to keep clean in some people, even with good dental care. Dental sealants are a clear plastic coating that covers the tooth surface, barring bacteria and acid from entering. Plaque and preventing tooth decay. No one’s teeth can stay plaque – free 24 hours a day, it’s just not possible. But good habits over a life time will help you beat back plaque and save your smile. True friends never holds the unchangeable past against you, instead they help you repair your present and future. If someone relentlessly judges you by your past and holds it against you, you might have to take matters into your own hands and repair your present and future by leaving them behind. 5-LIE TO YOU Whenever you keep people in your life who are chronic liars and you keep giving them, new chances to be trusted you have a lot in common with them. If you know those who avoid the truth, by telling you only what you want to hear, they are not true friends and they don’t deserve to be treated as such.
“True friendship and good character is all about how a person nurtures another person when they are vulnerable and can give very little in return. Thus, its not who’s standing beside you during good times. But the ones who stick by you through tough times that are your true friends.”
THE NIGERIAN
26
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
EVERY WEDNESDAY, WEEK 14, 2013 LUCKY 1.2. X SELECTIONS 8 INTERNATIONAL NOS. HOT PAIRSS 9 5 10
9 10 24 44
BANKERS
5
9
} }
20 23 24 42 43 44
1. NOTTM.F
16 XXB
2. MAN
5 XXB
3. WEST HAM
8 2XB
4. LEICESTER
14 505
5. ASTON VILLA
2 USE
WEST HAM
8
BARNSLEY
9
} } }
XOX
XOX
6. BLACKBURN
10 007
BLACKBURN
10
7. EAST FIFE
20 PAY
CCB
BRETFORD
20
CCB
8. ASTON VILLA
2 CBK
9. STOKE
6 CBK
ASTON VILLA
2
TOP
10. MILTON K.
24 XXX
MILLTON
11. MILTON K.
24 X0
12. BARNSLEY
9 X1
13. WEST HAM
8 XXX
14. ABERDEEN
42 TIP
15. HIBERNIAN
43 NP
HARTLEPOOL
35
ACB
16. INVERNESS
44 XO
PORTSMOUTH
39
XBK
17. BRENTFORD
20 XOX
BLACKBURN
10
CBK
18. ST MIRREN
47 XX
BRENTFORD
20
DEP
19. CHESTERFIELD
34 NN 39 ??
MILTON K.D
24
EAT
20. PORTSMOUTH
}
24
TOP
BIG BELLS
By SAM EHEBHA GSM:08056626091
SATURDAY RITUALS
16 20 34 39 47
GOSSIP NAP
35 39 20
}
NAP
10 OUTLOOK
N 9
2 24
PAIR
IF NOT NOW WHEN?
10
A 20 P 24
20
THE NIGERIAN
27
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
EVERY WEDNESDAY, WEEK 14 2013 WATSON WEST 1.2.X FORECAST
By SAM EHEBHA GSM:08056626091
Your Star
EDITOR’S NAP
RICHWELL NAP
NAP 20 XX 20 XX 20 NAP 34 XX 34 XX 34 PAIR 2 Vs 24 PAIR 10 OR 15 GOODLUCK LET IT BE
J. B. NAP
SUNNY NAP NAP 47 XX 47 XX 47
PAIR 33 OR 34 WATCH OUT
NAP 44 XX 44 XX 44 PAIR 8 OR 9 BE A WINNER
PAIR 11 OR 46 THERE IS HOPE
NAP 19 XX 19 XX 19 PAIR 21 OR 22 EXECUTIVE
PAKER NAP NAP 6 XX 6XX 6 PAIR 16 OR 17 FOR SURE
ODION NAP
PAUL NAP
OKUNS NAP NAP 5 XX 5 XX 5
MURPHY NAP
NAP 23 XX 23 XX 23 NAP 9 XX 9 XX 9 PAIR 34 OR 40 PAIR 30 0R 31 BE MY GUEST DRAW IS DRAW
GUESSING GAMES
10
16
20 24
@
44
SMOKING GUN BEWARE
1 2 3 11 12 13
27 17 26 29 32 33 49 FOR THREE DRAWS?
THE NIGERIAN
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
I’m The Madrid Scapegoat - Khedira
SAMI Khedira says he is unhappy at always being used as ‘scapegoat’ when Real Madrid do not play well. Khedira joined Madrid from Stuttgart in the summer of 2010, but in his three and a bit seasons at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, has been regularly criticised by both journalists and fans in the Spanish capital. However, he always worked his way into the team under former coach Jose Mourinho, and has done so again in recent weeks as new coach Carlo Ancelotti tries to add ‘balance’ to his misfiring side. But Khedira has often linked with a move elsewhere - with Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Paris Saint Germain among the potential suitors for a player who has been a regular for Germany since before the 2010 World Cup. The 26 year old told Kicker, in quotes picked up AS, that he felt he never really gets a fair shake of the stick from the Spanish media. “I feel badly treated by the Spanish press,” Khedira said. “I am never among their favourites. I began the season on the bench, and again I am the scapegoat. I am not valued, even when my performances are good. I am not Spanish, I did not cost a lot, and I am a disciple of Mourinho.” Khedira also said that the current season had not started well at all, with the team struggling for cohesion under Ancelotti. “We are not playing well,” he said. “We can have some good moments, but most of the time we are playing too
complicated, too individual. I do not know if it just a question of time or something more, but we have still not found ourselves as a team.” Los Blancos, who are already five points behind co-leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, need to turn things around sharpish, Khedira said. “We must improve quickly,” he said. “Barca are playing very consistently, and Atletico have won all their games up until now.” Khedira again pointed out that the surprise +50 million sale of his good friend and international teammate Mesut Ozil to Arsenal just before the end of last summer’s transfer window had affected Madrid. “The loss of a player of the quality of Mesut would weaken any team,” Khedira said.
Positive Dope Test Rules Chafa Out Of CHAN
that has always been known for serious and correct information, now says something which is not true, and does not tell what they were told by Madrid’s medical services and by Bale’s people,” he said. Perez, who is increasingly being criticised in Spain amid claims he his hiding the true size of Madrid’s debts, said the idea that he would sign a player he knew to be injured was particularly hard to take. “They told me that Bale was fit, after the medical, and I went to the presentation,” he said. “In the information published they wanted to say that I, despite having the information that he had a problem, wanted to keep going with [the transfer]. They have wanted to charge me with a responsibility that I do not have because nobody told me that the player was not fit. They tried to involve me in this type of set-up, with a bad intention. Either they have hit a goal right in the top corner, or they are trying to foist on us something which does not fit with our history or the prestige of our institution.” Perez echoed the opinion of Madrid’s medical chief that a ‘protrusion’ or ‘disc bulge’ in a player’s spinal column would not necessarily hamper their performances. “I heard the word ‘protrusion’ for the first time last Saturday,”
he added. “It is something relatively normal in an elite footballer, say almost all the doctors who have spoken on this. If there is no pain, you do not need to intervene. The doctors did not have to advise me of anything. They showed me today the X-Ray and it was fine.” Marca backed up its claim the injury was more serious on Monday with quotes from doctor Avelino Parajon who said the big-money transfer looked a mistake, however Perez said he had spoken with Parajon and there had been a misunderstanding. “All the doctors have left it clear that a protrusion is not as serious as was published,” he said. “The only doctor who has said anything different is Avelino Parajon, and I myself spoke with him today and he told me he did not want to say what they say he said.” Such scurrilous reports could damage Bale’s value to sponsors and commercial partners, Perez complained. “All this affects the image, the dignity and the financial performance of Bale,” he said. “The player and his camp are concerned because this can affect their contracts and campaigns. They have said that he had a slipped disk when he does not have it. The legal people are studying what we can do.”
Gerard Pique
Pique Wary Of Atletico Challenge
BARCELONA defender Gerard Pique believes Atletico Madrid could be serious challengers for the La Liga title this season. months before falling off The Rojiblancos are during the latter stages to currently in second place, finish in a distant third place. tied on 21 points with Diego Simeone’s side have Barcelona, having won all of already beaten Real Madrid at their opening eight fixtures. the Santiago Bernabeu this Barca, Atletico extend season and Pique believes perfect starts they cannot be taken lightly. Last season they were level “I’m convinced that after with Barcelona and Real the great match they Madrid during the first few (Atletico) played at Madrid,
Varane Learning From Pepe REAL Madrid defender Raphael Varane says countryman Zinedine Zidane and teammate Pepe helped him adapt at the club. The 20-year-old joined the Whites as a teenager in 2011 and he says Zidane, who was the club’s sporting director at that time, helped him to blend into the new atmosphere, while Pepe assisted him on the
“They know their own game and that is vital for any team. “We hope to be alongside them in the fight and in two or three months we will have a better idea.”
ZIMBABWE will Miss Devon Chafa for the 2014 Africa Nations Championships in South Africa after the player failed a doping test. Reports from Harare indicate that the Dynamos FC player has been banned for six months by FIFA after he tested positive for the banned substance Prednisolone. Chafa reportedly said he is ready to serve the ban. “If I look at it, it could have been a two-year suspension, but it has been pegged at six months. So, in other words, I would be happy to serve the six months instead of the two years and that’s how it will be,” he reportedly said. Chafa’s agent Gibson Mahachi, however, said although the ban is a setback to the player, it will not stop him from moving in June/July next season. The player played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2014 CHAN and during the 2013 COSAFA tournament. His ban is good news for Uganda, Burkina Faso and Morocco, who have been grouped alongside Zimbabwe for the CHAN event to take place in South Africa.
field. “Zinedine Zidane, among other things, advised me to speak to the others, to exchange ideas, to talk to them,” Varane told reporters. “He said it was up to me to take the plunge, and he helped me force my rather reserved nature so as to integrate well. “Someone who has given
Raphael-Varane, controls the ball.
me much advice is Pepe. Above all, I was taught never to hold back. “He is a player that always gives one hundred per cent on the field and I have tried to instill that culture and hunger to win.” Varane has recently recovered from a long-term injury and he says he is looking forward to making an impact for Carlo Ancelotti’s side and continue growing as a player. Varane, Coentrao back at training “I think I still have progress to make, and that I can improve in many aspects,” he added. “I’m into my third season at Real Madrid, with the all the experience that that brings. “I know the demands of playing at the highest level, I know the need for flawless concentration, to be strong in the tackle and quick and precise in my passing. “I’m trying to strengthen my qualities and slowly improve my defects.”
which surprised me, they will not let up,” Pique told La Vanguardia. “They don’t have our style of play but are solid in defence, break well on the counter-attack and have Diego Costa.
Gareth Bale Reports Are Personal - Perez
REAL Madrid president Florentino Perez has accused Marca of deliberately targeting him personally with its “totally false” claim that Gareth Bale was signed injured and will need an operation to fix a slipped disk in his back. Marca reported last weekend that the former Tottenham player has a slipped disk in his back — which Perez knew about before the summer’s 100 million euro worldrecord transfer went through. The Estadio Santiago Bernabeu club responded with a strongly worded denial, while the club’s chief of medical services admitted Bale had a slight back problem, but it was nowhere near as serious as was being made out. On Monday, Bale continued his ‘mini preseason’ programme, which includes double daily sessions and aims to have the Wales captain ready for Madrid’s upcoming Champions League double-header against Juventus and La Liga Clasico against Barcelona at the Camp Nou. And later that evening Perez told TV talk show Punta Pelota that Marca’s “cruel” and story had no basis in reality. “It is hard to understand such a cruel report,” Perez said. “Above all, because it is not true. I was very surprised. It was the first I heard of this. It is totally false.” The Blancos chief also claimed to be surprised that a paper with Marca’s reputation for serious journalism went ahead with the story, when both the club and Bale’s representatives had denied the claims. “It is very shocking that a paper
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Vermaelen Hints At Arsenal Exit THOMAS Vermaelen has hinted that he will consider his future if he cannot break into Arsenal’s starting XI. The centre-half says he will have to re-assess his options if he remains on the sidelines at the Emirates. Marc Wilmots’ Belgian side qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 12 years with victory over Croatia last Friday. And the lure of a trip to Brazil is clearly uppermost in the defender’s mind. He has a battle both for club and country to maintain his position. Vermaelen has lost out
to the partnership between Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger leaving his erstwhile skipper on the side lines. And he has an equally difficult job with Belgium as Vincent Kompany and Jan Vertonghen are blocking his path. Asked about his position at the Emirates, Vermaelen said: “I’ll have to think about that when it’s necessary. January is still a few months ahead. Of course, never playing will not be the ideal situation for me to go to the World Cup, that’s for sure.
“People ask me if I panic because I’m not playing a lot but I’m not. “I have spoken to the manager but it will remain private between us. Things can happen in a split second and change my situation. That can happen tomorrow or next weekend. “In that case, we will speak differently in January. I have to be ready for that.’
Altidore’s Mentality Will Not Change JOZY Altidore has revealed his mentality will not change as his baron goalscoring form in the Premier League continues. Altidore, 23, moved to the Black Cats during the summer from Dutch side AZ Alkmaar at a cost of £6million. Scoring over 30 goals last season in Dutch football, Altidore has struggled to recapture that form while at the Stadium of Light, despite having a legitimate goal against Arsenal ruled out by referee Martin
Sir Alex Ferguson
Manchester Council Honours Fergie FORMER Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has had a road near Old Trafford named after him. The 71-year-old, who retired at the end of last season as the most successful manager in British football history, has also been awarded the Honorary Freedom of the Borough of Trafford. Both honours were awarded by Trafford Borough Council on a day in which the Scot’s achievements in 26 years at the United helm were celebrated. Ferguson attended ceremonies at the town hall and at the street formerly known as Water ’s Reach, adjacent to Old Trafford, which is now to be called Sir Alex Ferguson Way. Ferguson, who won 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League titles with United, told those assembled at the latter: “It’s a privilege and an honour to have a road named after me. You don’t expect these things in life. “It encapsulates probably the last 26 years - coming to the great club, the history of it. It’s been an incredible journey for me, ending today for me to unveil this road sign: Sir Alex Ferguson Way. “I’m really proud of that and I’m proud of everyone who has been associated with the club. “I’d like to thank Manchester United for inviting me down here, 26 years ago. It was a fantastic elevation in my life and a challenge that I accepted. And we are where we are now. “It’s a great, great football club. You, the supporters, have enjoyed it. And I still think that
a lot of our young fans don’t remember that there were bad days. Dealing with bad days is what we’re good at. This club will always go on. “We’ve got a fantastic set-up, great staff, wonderful people and there’s only one way and that’s up for Manchester United. “I thank everybody for being here - all my friends, all my family and my wife, the boss! She picked all the winning teams, by the way.
“Thanks for coming here, thanks to the Mayor and Trafford Borough for this fantastic honour and the day we’ve had today at the town hall. It’s been absolutely brilliant.” Sir Alex Ferguson Way is close to another stadium approach road, Sir Matt Busby Way, named after one of his illustrious United predecessors. The Honorary Freedom is the highest honour which the council can bestow and recognises an eminent contribution to services in the borough. He is one of only three people to have received this
honour since the council was formed in 1974. Councillor Matthew Colledge, leader of the council, said: “After 26 years of strong leadership and success at Manchester United, we felt that it was a fitting tribute to honour Sir Alex with the Freedom of the Borough. “His success at Manchester United has made a significant contribution to not only football but Trafford itself. Manchester United has become one of the world’s most successful clubs and that success makes a big contribution to the local economy, in terms of both jobs and the visitors the club attracts.”
Atkinson. Well aware of the pressure placed on his shoulders with Sunderland sitting bottom of the league and Steven Fletcher out injured, Altidore revealed he does not intend to change his way of thinking during this difficult period. “Any player is a product of the environment,” he told MLSsoccer.com. “If we’re playing good attacking football, you’re always going to have opportunities to score goals. “I don’t change my mentality or the way I play. I feel like I’m playing well at Sunderland. We just have some bad luck right now, but I feel like I’m playing well and doing things right.” Altidore will work under his second manager in nearly as many months with former Brighton boss Gustavo Poyet replacing the sacked Paolo Di Canio. Desperate to avoid relegation with the Black Cats, the former Villarreal striker is hopeful his new boss can help Sunderland forget about the pressure and focus on building a good team. “I think it kind of stunts when you’re trying to build something because the pressure of staying in the league,” Altidore added. “Every year there are different types of teams in the Premier League just trying to stay up. “If we can just focus on building a good team and try to leave the rest of the stuff out, it will be good for us. Hopefully the new manager can help us do that.”
Thomas Vermaelen
Mancini Eyeing Kolarov Reunion FORMER Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is said to be eyeing a reunion with Aleksandar Kolarov at his new club Galatasaray. Mancini, who took over from Fatih Terim at the Turkish club, signed Kolarov from Lazio back in 2010 during his time on the City bench. The Serbian international has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the Etihad and although he has accumulated a regular starting place under Manuel Pellegrini, his future continues to remain in the balance. Mancini is still a keen fan of the 27-year-old striker and is eager to bring him over to Istanbul, according to various sources in Turkey. Reports suggest that the Italian manager will look to sign Kolarov in January with a bid in the region of £6.5m expected to be made.
Jovetic Never ...Backroom Key To United Wanted Juve Move Sucess - Alex
FORMER Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has pinpointed the secret to his success at Old Trafford, suggesting a harmonious back room staff was key during his tenure. Ferguson retired after 26 highly successful years as United boss last summer and he admits the key elements to his glory were put in place off the field as much as on it. “Three things are very important when you are working with [backroom staff] — work ethic, loyalty, philosophy,” Ferguson is quoted in the Daily Mirror. “You all have to be singing the same tune, no matter how bad
the tune is. It’s important that your people agree with you and the way that we at United wanted to play, that was very important. A good backroom staff is vital to any manager and I had that at United.” Speaking at a UEFA coaching conference in Budapest, Ferguson went on to discuss the complexities of being a modern day manager, as he suggested he changed the way he handled players in the latter part of his career in a bid to drain the best out of them on the pitch. “The human beings I’ve dealt with are far more fragile than the human beings of 30 years ago
and I say that in a good sense because they’re coming from better conditions,” he added. “I couldn’t lose my temper the way I did back then with people nowadays. Also, which has become very dominant in the English game, is the culture of players from different countries. “At United I think there are people from 20 different nationalities and that’s a challenge because people from different cultures have to be addressed. “You have to make sure that they are comfortable in their environment because it’s a results industry and you need to
Stevan Jovetic
MANCHESTER City striker Stevan Jovetic has revealed he never wanted a move to Juventus during the summer transfer window. The Montenegrin international was frequently linked with a move to Turin throughout the offseason, but eventually opted to leave Florence for a switch to the Etihad. Jovetic admitted that talks took place with the Bianconeri, but was adamant that he never sought a move to the Piemonte club. “I never said I wanted Juventus,” Jovetic was quoted as saying by Tuttosport. “It is true that there was a negotiation. But I chose to go abroad.”
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013
Eagles ’ll Not Be Complacent In Calabar, Says Green
THE Chairman, technical committee of the Nigeria Football Association, Chris Green, said on Monday the Super Eagles will not underrate the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia when they meet in Calabar. “Yes, we have an advantage, Nigeria beat Ethiopia 2-1 in but we shouldn’t rest on our Addis Ababa in first leg world oars. We should make sure that cup play off on Oct. 13. Green told the News Agency we come here (Calabar) and of Nigeria (NAN) on phone beat them. “Because, they will come from Abuja that the Eagles here to attack, so we shouldn’t would be focused to win the defend, we should also attack second leg of the qualifier them and make sure that we against Ethiopia on Nov 16. He said the Eagles handlers score. “Its not going to be a very and players “know what is at stake and cannot afford to be easy match. We have to be focused and concentrate so complacent’’. “If anybody tells you that it seriously. And this time, it calls will be easy, then the person for real seriousness. “ We should not be does not know what football is complacent; we should not all about.
Bosnich Wants Ferguson For Aussie Job FORMER Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich has backed Sir Alex Ferguson to come out of retirement and coach Australia after Holger Osieck was sacked on Friday. Bosnich, who spent four years under Ferguson during two spells at Old Trafford, believes the Scot could help steady the Socceroos if he chooses to come out of retirement. Former Australia boss Guus Hiddink and Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou are currently favourites to take up the position, but Bosnich has urged Football Federation Australia to pursue Ferguson. “We’ve been throwing around a lot of names but there’s one person that I haven’t heard mentioned — even though I’ve got more reason than anyone not Steven Gerrard to suggest him,” he told Triple M radio. “I’m just being honest and have had experience under him, so know what he’s like – it is Sir Alex -Ferguson. “That name hasn’t been put about, but we need someone of that ilk. He [Ferguson] would
command a top whack, but in life, and especially in sport, you get what you pay for. If you want the very best, you’re going to have to pay for the best.” Meanwhile, Lucas Neill is determined to defy his critics and play on despite calls for the Socceroos captain to step down from his post. “I am committed to being captain of this country for as long as the people in charge give me that status,’’ he said. “I feel partly responsible for making sure this team goes into that tournament in the best possible shape they can, in the best frame of mind, and hopefully with a lot of confidence.” Neill also responded to comments from Bosnich following Friday’s 6-0 defeat to France after the 41-year-old claimed the defender is past his prime. “Football is a game of opinions,” Neil added. “He’s entitled to his, (but) I expect better from people who’ve played the game and certainly from people that call themselves my friend.”
leave anything to chance; we shouldn’t underrate the players; we are not going to do that. “That will be part of the mistake anybody will make, if we do underrate the players, we will pay dearly for it. “I’m sure, Stephen Keshi is going to give 110 per cent for this one, and this is the last stage. Let us just get it done and get it off our way. “But, again, we need to pray to God; we need to pray for luck; we need Nigerians too to pray for us. That is exactly what we need.’’ Green said Eagles players had much to gain playing in the world cup because it would improve their ratings and make them more marketable. He urged Nigerians to pray for the team to qualify for the world cup and do the nation and Africa proud at the 2014 mundial in Brazil. He also said the match in Addis Ababa was very difficult and that experience made the difference for the Eagles.
World Cup Qualifier Ghana Egypt
6 1
Keane Calls For Tough New Manager REPUBLIC of Ireland captain Robbie Keane has called on Football Association of Ireland chiefs to ensure their new manager is “someone who has balls”, as the search for Giovanni Trapattoni’s successor continued. In comments that suggest he may welcome the arrival of a
Bruno Metsu Loses Cancer Battle FRENCHMAN Bruno Metsu who was in charge of the Senegal team that made the 2002 World
Bruno Metsu
Cup quarterfinals has passed away after a battle with cancer Bruno Metsu, the French manager who stunned thenworld champions Les Bleus at the 2002 World Cup with Senegal, has died after a long struggle with cancer. Metsu, 59, passed away on Monday night at a clinic in his native northern France after losing his battle against colon, liver and lung cancer. A former professional player at Valenciennes, Lille, Nice and Beauvais, he shot to global prominence 11 years ago when his Senegal side defeated his native country, who were also reigning European champions at the time. Pape Bouba Diop’s goal in the opening game of the finals in Seoul sealed a 1-0 win for the Lions of Teranga, launching a campaign which saw
Emmanuel Emenike celebrates his goal against Ethiopia on Sunday.
them become the first Afican nation to reach the quarterfinals in 12 years. After leaving the Senegal job later the same year, Metsu spent the rest of his career coaching in the Persian Gulf in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and latterly at Dubai-based club Al Wasl, which he left in 2012. Claude Le Roy, who was a close friend of Metsu and has also forged his managerial career outside of his native country, told L’Equipe he would retain fond memories of his late colleague. “I’m in shock.,” he said. “He fought like a lion. We had a lot of things in common. It’s terrible for him, for Viviane, his wife, and the little ones. I’m thinking about them above all. “We had a lot of adventures together. I’ll remember a magnificent smile and his love of life.”
stern manager like Roy Keane, the striker has laid down some pretty basic criteria to FAI bosses as they close in on their next head coach. “I want someone who is an honest manager who doesn’t mess around, understands how important it is to be involved in international level, someone who is very, very proud to be a manager and be proud of what we are trying to achieve in Ireland,” said Ireland’s all-time record goal scorer. “Someone who is honest and someone who has balls and doesn’t take any s*** from anyone. If anybody wants to ask any of the Ireland players a question about this, I am sure they will be very open to listening to what people have to say and certainly give their opinion on what they feel. “But ultimately, the decision is down to the FAI. It’s their heads on the chopping block, if you like, if they don’t feel like they are making the right decision.” When asked whether he would be content to welcome Roy Keane as the next Ireland boss, the Los Angeles Galaxy forward was keen to avoid nominating his own preferred candidate as the FAI move towards their reported November 1st deadline to nominate Trapattoni’s
successor. “The names I have heard being mentioned, if any of them took over, I think everybody would be fairly happy. It could be any of those,” he stated. “I think it’s important whoever takes over it’s a fresh start for everybody, the whole country gets behind them and we wish them well whoever that may be. “Mick (McCarthy) is a great guy, a fantastic guy. Everything we have referenced, he comes into that mould. If it was Mick, if it was Martin O’Neill, Roy Keane, I don’t think you could
go wrong with any of them, to be honest with you.” Keane went on to admit he is hoping an Irishman will take over the reigns of the national team and he is pretty confident that ambition will be realised. “As long as it’s the right man, it doesn’t matter. But of course, I think everybody at this stage now probably would want an Irish manager,” added Keane. “I think it’s probably clear and obvious to see that. It’s looking likely that it probably will be, it seems that way, anyway — that’s not me with inside information.”
Lamouchi Wished For Another Team
IVORY Coast head coach Sabri Lamouchi admits he would have preferred to meet another opponent rather than Senegal in the World Cup play-offs. The Elephants recorded a 3-1 victory in the first leg against the Taranga Lions on Saturday evening in Abidjan and, even after the win; Lamouchi admits it wasn’t the most ideal of outings. “Did I feel fortunate to play Senegal? Not at all,” he revealed in an interview with SuperSport.com. “I would have wished for
another team because Senegal are a very complicated side to play. They don’t have a definite style of football and so to counter them is always tough.” Even with a comfortable twogoal advantage heading into the second leg in November, the fans still voiced their frustration at Ivory Coast’s performance on the day. “I understand their fear, but we have always performed that way even before my arrival. We play for objective, and I think that is the safest way to negotiate a competition,” concluded the
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Eguavoen, Akanni Commend Eagles
Terror Bomb Goes Off Near Ethiopia Stadium Two suspected terrorists died on Sunday after a bomb went up near the stadium as Ethiopia played Nigeria in a 2014 World Cup playoff. According to CNN World Sport, the terrorists, believed to be of Somalian origin, died as they were allegedly preparing the bomb in a house near the stadium in Addis Ababa. The explosion is reported to have happened approximately three Kilometres away from the stadium in Addis Ababa as the World Cup playoff was in progress. It is still unclear whether the game was the intended target for the alleged terrorist as details are still coming in. The Super Eagles won the first leg game 2-1 inside a packed Ethiopia National Stadium. Nigeria officials have complained of ill treatment in Ethiopia and reported to the organisers an attack on the team’s bus soon after the match on Sunday. Spain-based midfielder Nosa Igiebor was injured in the attack, officials said. The return leg match will be played in Calabar next month with the overall winners booking a place at next year’s World Cup in Brazil.
Stephen Keshi, Super Eagles Coach
Eagles Technical Crew Strategises For Second Leg Against Ethiopia The Super Eagles head coach, Stephen Keshi, has said that the Eagles are taking their second-leg match with Ethiopia on November16 in Calabar seriously. “We will play as if the first leg Eagles good run for their has not taken place,’’ said Keshi, money but that the experience who spoke with newsmen at the of the Eagles, the African Nnamdi Azikiwe International champions, gave them the Airport, Abuja, on Monday on day. Kehsi’s assistant, Daniel arrival from Addis Ababa. The Super Eagles, in Addis Amokachi, told newsmen that Ababa on Sunday, defeated the the technical crew had drawnWalya Antelopes of Ethiopia 1- up a plan for the return leg. According to Amokachi, 2 in the first leg of Brazil 2014 the Eagles stand a better FIFA World Cup Qualifier. The second leg is scheduled for chance of winning the return, considering the absence of November 16 in Calabar. Keshi said the home-based altitude challenge which the Super Eagles are expected to team experienced in Ethiopia. “When it comes to striking open the team’s camp at the end of the month and that the foreign- force we know we have, probably, the best in the world based players will join later. He said the Ethiopians gave the
Eaglets’ Keeper Accepts World Cup Axe Goalkeeper Adeyinka Adewale has said he accepts his exclusion from Nigeria final squad for the FIFA U17 World Cup in the UAE. “I have no ill-feelings towards anybody because I was not picked for the World Cup due to my troubled injury and I know the coaches have acted in good faith,” said Adewale, who kept goal for Kwara Football Academy’s 2012 Shell Cup-winning team. “It was my dream to be at the World Cup but for this knee injury.” Adewale was in goal during the African Junior Championship in Morocco.
Austine Eguavoen, a former Head Coach of the Super Eagles, has commended the team’s 2-1 victory against the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa on Sunday. Eguavoen told newsmen in Lagos on Monday that the team’s success “lies in their hands”. “It was a good one, we thank God. Experience paid off, the team has come a long way. I can proudly say that we have a team that plays as a team. “Initially, I was a bit skeptical about our defence line, but my doubt was cleared. We have a very good team, I’m beginning to have confidence in our defence line. “Although, the first half was not so good, but they eventually got their act together; We are happy that Eagles have made us
Odinaka Uzoho; Abdulazeez Abubakar and Sunday Alampasu have been battling for the Golden Eaglets’ Number 1 shirt, but Adewale has endorsed Sunday Alampasu as his favourite for the Number 1 position when Nigeria begin their quest for a fourth FIFA U17 World Cup against Mexico on Saturday. “I have no doubt that there are capable replacements for me and I would easily pick Alampasu to succeed me. Alampasu has all the attributes of a good goalkeeper and I have told the three of them to support each other,” he said. Meanwhile, the four players who did not make the Golden Eaglets cut for
the World Cup will leave Dubai for Nigeria Tuesday. The quartet of Adeyinka Adewale, Clement Ogbobe, Godwin Odibo and Olumide Akofe were confident their counterparts who made the final list will make the country proud in the UAE. “We have learnt so much during this training tour and we shall continue to pray for the success of the team at the World Cup,” said Ogbobe, a former Nigeria U15 star. “Of course, all of us cannot make the team as such; we wish them the best at the World Cup.”
because every member of the team can upset any team. “Unfortunately, some of the players didn’t clique because of the weather but thank God we won 2-1,’’ Amokachi said. Amokachi, popularly called ‘the bull’ during his playing days, said he was tensed during Sunday’s encounter with Ethiopia. “It is normal in football because you have to be tense
even before the blast of the whistle. “But when you play against a team like the Ethiopians, definitely you will be a bit nervous; thank God that we recovered from the one goal to score two goals in less than 20 minutes. “We now have one foot in Brazil, but we will have to wait for the outcome of the return-leg in Calabar before we can celebrate,’’ Amokachi said.
NIGERIA coach Stephen Keshi has said that next month’s friendly against Italy could stress his team because of the timing. The African champions have confirmed they will face four-time world champions Italy on November 18 in London. The Eagles will depart for England immediately after taking on Ethiopia in Calabar in the return leg of the 2014 World Cup final playoff on November 16. “It would be a good test for our preparation for the World Cup, but the timing is my only worry. We would not have time to rest for the game after playing against Ethiopia,” Keshi said. “We would most likely head to either Abuja or Lagos to proceed to
London, meaning we might not even have time to warm up before the game. “In any case, we would see how it goes but it would be a good test for
proud again,” Eguavoen said. He noted that securing an away victory would boost the morale of the team and urged the team to consolidate on the victory. “I know that match was a tough one, their victory will boost their confidence and they also need to consolidate on this,” he added. Sharing similar views was Wahidi Akanni, a former Super Eagles player, who urged the team to continue with their winning streak. “They should not change their chemistry, they should keep this going. I believe that the return leg will not be a tough one because we won’t be under pressure. “Kudos to the technical crew, led by their able coach, Stephen Keshi. I dare say that Super Eagles is back. “I hope they keep this up. God willing, we will make an impressible mark at the World Cup,” Akanni stated. Emmanuel Emenike’s goals (67th and 90th minute penalty kicks) gave the Eagles victory over the Walya Antelopes. The Ethiopians scored their only goal in the 57th minute through Behailu Asefa. The Super Eagles is so far the only away victor in the African playoffs, which no doubt would make the return leg in Calabar on November 16 a lot easier for the Nigerian team.
Keshi Concerned With Italy Friendly Timing
Vincent Enyeama
my team ahead of the World Cup.” Keshi will also parade a team of players from the local league for another friendly in Amman, Jordan, later this month.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2013 CMYK
P
ASTOR Ayo Oritsejafor, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has called on all of Nigeria’s public officials to give half of their salary for one year towards ameliorating the suffering of our unemployed youth. He said, “I want to make asuggestion…that probably if all political office holders, both elected and appointed, will give half of their salaries for one year and put it in a dedicated account for the poor and let men and women of integrity run that account, it will build confidence in the society.” The Pastor made his intervention at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, at an event which marked National Day. I have not heard Pastor Oritsejafor refer to his suggestion since then. Nor do I think he has heard from any official of any coloration wishing to volunteerheart or cheque. He will not, because in Nigeria, it is about taking, not giving, and as a rule, taker never take enough to give away.We help the poor by nurturing poverty. Unemployed?Awwww…sorry! Seeking public office? You lie, cheat and steal. You look deeply into the eyes of prospective voters and tell them whatever you think they want to hear. Once they have voted for you, the joke is on them. It is common knowledge that some Ministerial nominees collude with legislators forconfirmation, and that some Ministers and commissioners collude with legislators about mutually-beneficial budget allocations. Ministers often collude with bank officials and contractors. Some Governors are in a perpetual game of converting public funds into private estates. It is the business of Lazarus if he starves to death in his squalor. In some Nigerian States where the governor is decent, the public interest
is being served and development is may be seen to be taking shape. Where the governor is a greedy one, however, he is the State, in the manner of Louis XIV. But things may be changing: Take Delta State,where angry Isoko youth showed up during a meeting of chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party inIdhezelast week.
Development and Rights Advocacy dismissing it as “a gross infringement of citizenry fundamental human rights, freedom of speech, association and rightful assembly in tandem with principles of democracy and also other international conventions and treaties which Nigeria is a signatory.” Kaduna, by the way, is the fragile State where
Lagos, the party accused PDP members of looting the funds. In view of Kaduna’s paranoia over public rallies, the SURE-P situation forecasts a scary future because it suggests that men like Adenaikecould gun down innocent citizens simply for expressing rights given to them in the constitution. This is particularly
Give Our Youth Justice, Not Alms
Brandishing dangerous weapons, they chased the bigwigs into the street, some of them jumping over obstacles like Senator IyaboObasanjo fleeing from the EFCC. The charge: “All of them you see are 419 [fraudsters],” one of the youth said. “After elections they will abandon us and once another election is getting close you see them coming around again and we said this time around it will not…This time around it will not work we shall resist and fight with the last drop of our blood.” Pay attention to the bword: blood. In Kaduna, blood was in fact shed when a proJonathan political rally of the Northern Youth Forum ended inviolence, with several people carried off bleeding. It is not even election year, yet. The rally was reported to have been funded by a governor from the Southsouth who was speculated to have laid out N500 million towards boosting Mr. Jonathan’s acceptance in the North. The following day, we were to see a glimpse of the future when the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, one OlufemiAdenaike, a military erarelic, seized the microphone and declared: “Henceforth, no individual, groups or associations shall hold meetings, rallies or assemblies without the prior consent of the police Command.” Mr. Adenaike had clearly not availed himself of a copy of the constitution. Citizens’ groups immediately rejected the order, the Center for
Ayo Oritsejafor
issues of transparency have become very prominent. In June,trainee-Governor MukhtarRamalanYero was accused by the House of Assembly of embezzling N560 million of the state’s Subsidy Reinvestment and E m p o w e r m e n t Programme (SURE-P) funds. Earlier, some citizens had written to the EFCC alleging that local government chairmen and members of the House were sharing the funds among themselves. SURE-P, born of the nationwide public protests of January 2012, is one of those initiatives for which Mr. Jonathan receives some credit, although sadly not for its implementation. In fact, the former Action Congress of Nigeria said in April that SURE-P funds were being converted into election campaign funds nationwide. Specifically, in
important in view of the several protests underway, or on the way. The Academic Staff Union of Universities strike is now three and a half months old. That situation was compounded last week when the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics began its own strike. The issues are the same: a government that does not honour its obligations. The unions cite poor or inexistent infrastructure, underfunding, terrible teaching conditions, mismanagement, and underpayment. But the government is not paying attention to the teachers. It does not seem to be paying much attention to the States, either, with governors complaining about not receiving due allocations not from the centre. How long will civil service workers stomach not being paid, should that come?
How long will students sit at home before they sit in the streets? In the corruption-soaked oil sector, there have been threats of strike action. The credibility of the government continues to disappear: Boko Haram, supposedly shot to death after three States were sacrificed to a state of emergency, seems to be flourishing in the citizenslaughtering business. And no arm of the government seems to know what the other is doing. One says Boko Haram leader AbubakarShekauis dead; another says he is not. Jonathan says he does not know whether the man is alive or dead. Kidnappers kidnap on, and policemen collect bribes. Speaking of credibility, Mr. Jonathan says that corruption in Nigeria is “exaggerated.”Thissettles any argument as to why such friends of his as Ministers Diezani AlisonMadueke, Stella Oduah and Mohamed Adoke continue to hold their jobs. It does not matter what they are accused of: exaggerated. It does not matter that a plane falls out of the sky while the Aviation Minister is alleged to be collecting bribes from anyone who walks past
Aviation’s doors: exaggerated. Real leaders confront corruption by smell, long before it is seen, but Nigeria’s leader implies it is a rumour, thereby empowering impunity. It is unlikely that all of this can happen, and continue to happen without repercussions, with Nigeria’s youth looking on. This is why the road to 2015 becomes a minefield, and not simply of political explosives. This is why privileged people like Pastor Oritsejafor must readjust their glasses. Our people do not deserve to be “assisted” with personal resources, certainly not by people who, if they only applied one-tenth of their efforts and our resources, would be heroes in our eyes. What Nigerian youth desire—and deserve—is what belongs to them: justice, not alms. And that is because Nigeria needs surgery, not treatment. This is the time for us to be honest about what is at stake, and to cry loudly in the streets while there is time. Otherwise, our critically-unemployed may well come for what is theirs.
TOMORROW ON THIS PAGE
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It is also becoming clear that those who loot the huge sums are perhaps not the real owners of the loots. They are mere commission agents, acting on behalf of the big bosses, hence a man can openly confess to stealing “only N23 billion” and you hand down a fine of just N750,000 on him (.00032% of his loot), which he pulls out of his back pocket; throws at you; and he is a free man forever.
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-Hon. Josef Omorotionmwan
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