Nigerian observer 17 07 2014 by Nigerian Observer

The Nigerian

PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vo l. 39 • N O . 036 • THURSDAY, JULY 17, 20 14 • N100. 0 0 RELIGION Page 23 The wonders of his praise!

Appearance: Edo Assembly invites 18 Council chairmen By KEN ABU

BENIN CITY – Edo State House of Assembly has released its timetable for the scheduled appearance of the Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Councils in the state to brief the

House on their activities over the past one year. Announcing the timetable during yesterday’s plenary, the Speaker, Hon. Uyi Igbe disclosed that the briefing is expected to commence

on Monday July 21, 2014 at 10 am with AkokoEdo, Egor and Esan Central Local Government Councils respectively, while Esan North East, Esan SouthEast and Esan West

Local Government Councils have been scheduled for Tuesday July 22, 2014. The Chairman of Etsako-Central, EtsakoEast and Etsako-West Continues on page 2

War On Terror By JOSES SEDE

OBSERVER SPORTS Page 30 2014 FIFA World Cup Great, but not the greatest as misses prove costly for Messi

ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan has sought the approval of the National Assembly to borrow $1 billion (N162bn) to finance the war against insurgency. our armed forces and Jonathan made the security services to request in a letter to the enable them more Senate President, David forcefully confront this Mark, entitled: “Tackling serious threat. Ongoing Security “For this reason, I seek Challenges: Need for the concurrence of the Urgent Action”. National Assembly for The president said that external borrowing of not this action was more than $1 billion,” the necessary to enable letter read in part. government upgrade He said that this loan equipment, train the included government to armed forces and g o v e r n m e n t security services as well arrangement in order to as take care of other effectively carry out the logistic needs. upgrade. “You are no doubt The Federal cognisant of the ongoing Government had and serious security appropriated N968.1 challenges which the billion for Defence in the nation is facing as 2014 budget. typified by the Boko Also yesterday, Haram terrorist threat. President Goodluck “I would like to bring to Jonathan reaffirmed your attention the need Federal Government’s to upgrade equipment, resolve to bring to justice training and logistics of individuals responsible

Jonathan seeks N165bn . vows to bring perpetrators, spon-

for crimes against humanity in the country and their sponsors. Jonathan spoke while inaugurating the recently constituted committee

sors to justice

on the Victims Support Fund. The fund is an

initiative of the federal government aimed at mobilising resources to

support victims of terrorist activities in the country. The 26-member Continues on page 2

Weekend OBSERVER Editor dies at 56

BENIN CITY- The Editor, WEEKEND OBSERVER, Mr. Henry Akhalu Balogun is dead. Aged 56 years, he died on Tuesday July 15, 2014 in a private hospital in Benin City during a brief illness. He is survived by his wife, children and other relations. The late Balogun joined the services of Bendel Newspapers Company Limited

(BNCL), publishers of the OBSERVER titles on January 3, 2000 as a Senior Reporter 11 and rose through the ranks to become the Editor, W E E K E N D OBSERVER. A former Features Editor of The NIGERIAN OBSERVER who was popular for his weekly columns ‘Moments of Scrutiny’ and ‘Gems of Truth’ in the WEEKEND OBSERVER.

TIT BIT “A man’s knowledge can become his greatest enemy, when he allows his knowledge to assume the place of God.” - Kingsley Ogbeide-Ihama

He hails from Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State. An alumnus of Middlesex Polytechnic, London, he holds a Continues on page 2

PROTEST: People protesting over rumoured impeachment of Governor Tanko Almakura in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, yesterday.

Consumption Tax Revenue Board distrains Kenbrill Hyatt Hotel, 164 coys

BENIN CITY - The Edo State Internal Revenue Service has sealed up Kenbrill Hyatt hotel and 164 others. A popular hotel in Benin City, the Edo State capital over failure to

remit consumption taxes owed Edo State Government. This information was

made known by the Director of Tax Intelligence and Enforcement, Mr. Victor

the electronics, referring to the State Assembly as APC House of Assembly holding plenary in

Chairman, House Standing Committee on Information, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto yesterday during

Okube who led the enforcement team to the hotel premises. Okube Victor informed

Don’t brand us APC legislators, EDHA plenary stated that he has watched with keen tells Media BENIN CITY – Edo interest how the House OBSERVER) especially Government House. By KEN ABU

state House of Assembly has berated reports in the media (not The NIGERIAN

has consistently been referred to as Edo APC House of Assembly by Continues on page 2

that Kenbrill Hyatt owes a total of two million, one hundred and eighty-four thousand naira (N2, 184, 000:00) as unremitted consumption tax owed and collected on behalf of Edo State Government. Mr. Okube said the tax enforcement team of the EIRS sealed up 164 others, comprising of hotels, eateries and events centres located within the senatorial districts of the state as Continues on page 2

News

Revenue Board distrains Kenbrill Hyatt Hotel, 164 coys

Continued from page 1 they were found not to be in compliance with the Hotels and Events Centres Occupancy and Restaurant Consumption Law of Edo State, otherwise known as Consumption Tax Law”. Mr. Okube further informed that the Internal Revenue Service will do everything that

is legal as always to ensuring that all monies owed Edo State Government is collected. The Director of Tax Intelligence and Enforcement Unit said “government all over the world must look for alternative sources of revenue to meet with its developmental programmes.

This source is through tax. And there is every need for citizens to support government in this regard”. Mr. Victor Okube advised those yet to make payment to visit the nearest Edo State Government IGR Banks and not to pay cash to any individual or group of

individuals as there are Points of Sales (PoS) terminals available at every tax offices in Edo State where taxpayers can pay their taxes with the use of their Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards without difficulty. He said the enforcement exercise is a continuous one.

Continued from page 1 some electronic media. T his, according to the

APC Edo State House of Assembly”. Speaking, the Majority Leader, Hon. Philip Shaibu condemned in strong terms the assertions emerging from some quarters that the State House of Assembly now holds its plenaries at the governor’s office, describing it as false and a deliberate attempt to ridicule the State Assembly. Hon. Shaibu who made the condemnation during plenary explained that the House currently holds its plenary in the old legislative chambers located at Dennis Osadebe

Avenue due to the ongoing renovation of its legislative complex at Oba Ovonramwen square and not the governor’s office as speculated by a section of the media. He stated that the old legislative chamber only shares a fence with the Government House, stressing that if the House had wanted to use the governor’s office, they would have used the Exco-chambers which is more roomy and conducive for legislative businesses. Hon. Shaibu further explained that the old legislative chamber

has been in use by the House up till the year 1999, but the House relocated to the Chief Anthony Enahoro complex at Ring road after the completion. He therefore, urged the media to assist the House by providing accurate information to members of the House. Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, while re-echoing the views of other lawmakers urged the media, as agents of socialization to ensure that accurate information are disseminated to the general public.

Don’t brand us APC legislators

Lawmaker amounted to a deliberate attempt to misinform the general public. He emphasized that though they were elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), they should not be addressed as “APC House of Assembly or APC legislators,” adding that as Honourable members, they are representatives of the people of the State. The Chairman House Committee on Information while appreciating the role of the media in the coverage of the House plenaries however, urged them to address the Speaker of the House, Hon. Uyi Igbe as the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly and not the erroneous “Speaker of

Weekend OBSERVER Editor dies at 56

Continued from page 1 Bachelor of Arts Degree combined studies, majoring in communication studies and International studies. The date for his burial ceremony will be announced later.

Late Henry Balogun

Edo Assembly invites 18 Council chairmen

Continued from page 1 Local Government Councils are expected to appear before the House on July 23, 2014 while Igueben, IkpobaOkha and Oredo Local Government Chairmen are to brief the House on Monday July 28. Chairmen of Orhionmwon, Ovia North East and Ovia South-West Local Governments are scheduled for July 29, while Owan East, Owan West and Uhunmwode are to appear for briefing on July 30.

Jonathan seeks N165bn

Continued from page 1 committee, chaired by former Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.-Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), is saddled with the task of raising the targeted N30 billion fund. The president reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to ensuring that terrorists have no hiding place in the country. He said that the federal government would win the war against Boko Haram and their sponsors. Jonathan described the terrorist group as an assemblage of heartless individuals, which has taken it upon itself to bring evil upon the country. “In their mission, the group has turned women to widows and reduced children to orphans, killed, maimed and struck fear into law-abiding citizens. “The country is facing the reality that it is confronted with individuals whose minds have been so twisted and tutored to believe they are doing God a service by their actions. “Let me reiterate clearly that evil will never prevail over good. We will never waste any effort in bringing the individuals responsible for crimes against humanity to justice,” he said. Jonathan noted that victims of terrorism in the country needed comfort and succour, hence the establishment of the Victims Support Fund. “We cannot replace the life of a child that has been snuffed out. We cannot replace the lives of men and women who have been killed. “We cannot return broken limbs to their original state. We cannot take away the trauma that people have been put through. “Their memories are scared, some for the rest of their lives, over whys they knew nothing about. “The best we can do in this circumstance is to offer them a shoulder to lean on and to stretch out our hands of

fellowship and tell them we feel their pains and share their sorrow,” said the president The committee, according to him, is a part of ongoing efforts to provide a comprehensive solution to the menace of terrorism. He said that the committee would provide a framework through which all persons and institutions who wish to help to make their contribution. “The victims support fund committee will help to mobilise collective efforts and resources in support for the victims. “I appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians and non-Nigerians, individuals and corporate bodies to give generously to this fund.

“The victims need our sympathy and empathy. We have to show that we care and can never give way or give in to agents of evil,” he said. In his remarks, Danjuma assured Jonathan and Nigerians that the committee would carry out its mandate diligently. He said: “We will raise the fund, we will disburse it?, I promise you we will do so diligently and transparently, but we must win this war Mr President.” Reports state that the membership of the committee, which has Mr Fola Adeola as Vice Chairman, comprised representatives of the police, military, NEMA, UN, and other local and international organisations.

Mark Congratulates new NBA President By JOSES SEDE ABUJA - President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has sent a message of congratulation to the newly elected President of the Nigeria Bar Association Mr. Austine Alegeh, on his victory at the keenly contested election. Senator Mark in the congratulatory Message to Alegeh and his executive members expressed happiness over the smooth conduct of the election held in Abuja. The Senate President Urged the Alegeh led NBA executive to sustain and indeed improve the sanctity of professional excellence which the legal profession is known for . According to Mark: “History has placed the

leadership of NBA on you at this moment. It is incumbent on you to justify the confidence repose on you. You will do this by upholding the integrity, professional excellence and being a team player. “Besides, the ordinary Nigerian believes that the Judiciary is the last hope of the common man. You should do more to ensure that Nigerians have trust and confidence on the Judiciary at all times.” Senator Mark reminded the NBA of the need to continue to stand and defend the defenceless, protect the weak and the vulnerable in the society. He assured of the Senate and the National Assembly’s collaboration with the NBA especially in the legislation for the good of the society.

Nigeria, India to expand partnership By JOSES SEDE ABUJA - President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has assured of concerted efforts by the Federal Government of Nigeria to boost trade and investment partnership with the state of India and ultimately become a big commerce in the world. Besides, Senator Mark said Nigeria has a lot to learn from India including her Technology, Agriculture and democratic practices that would fastrack development. Senator Mark stated when he played host to the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Ajjampur Rangaiah Ghanashyam in his office yesterday that Nigeria has a long standing relationship with India including military trainings. He stressed that partnering with a nation like India is worth encouraging because the pattern of development and stable democracy that exist

among the various sociopolitical groups in India should be emulated. “What we need as a nation is to borrow from the enormous developmental strides attained by the Indians and relate it back home, since we have the human capital and material resources”, he stated. The Senate President called for more collaboration between and among the Agencies of government with the Indian based professionals in order to achieve a technological breakthrough. Earlier, the Indian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Ghanashyam said he was satisfied with the level of bilateral relationship that exists between the two countries. He canvasses for exchange programmes especially commerce and trade that would be beneficial to both countries.

90 PDP members defect to APC By ELIZABETH AGBOEGBULEM PORT HARCOURT -No fewer than 90 members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State have decamped to the All Progressives congress APC. The former PDP members, including youths and women were officially received into the APC by a member of the National Assembly representing Rivers SouthEast Senatorial District, Senator Magnus Abe. Senator Abe who was in Afam, Headquarters of Oyigbo Local Government Area of the State in continuation of his empowerment initiative danced round the arena with the new party members, all of who were holding brooms. Addressing the new members, the Senator assured that they will not regret their decision, since as he puts it “you will be carried along” describing the APC as the party to beat. He disclosed that the leader of the party in the State, Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi was not fighting for

himself, but for the betterment of the state and called on the people to continue to support him. “Our leader, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi is clear with what we want for Rivers State. He is not fighting for himself, he is fighting because of us, so that our state will be better; we made him governor and nobody can stay anywhere and dictate to Rivers people. If they want anything they should talk to him.” He said. The Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) assured the over 90 persons who defected to the APC that they were now major stakeholders in the party and urged those who have not officially registered with the party to do so in order to strengthen their participation in party activities. According to Abe, “That thing that you have seen is what we saw and we left that place. And in this business, every human being is valuable, that is why we are receiving you with open arms”. Earlier, leader of the decampees, Mr. Chukwu Umeh said they dumped the

PDP because the party was not the right vehicle that will take them to the Promised Land. Umeh further said the PDP has lost its vision, adding that the people of Oyigbo no

longer have confidence in it, because it is a failed party. Continuing, he said, “We want the leadership of the APC to carry us along in the scheme of things and we will support them to the last.

Britain arrests 660 suspected Pedophiles

LONDON -The British National Crime Agency (NCA) said on Wednesday that police had arrested 660 suspected pedophiles including doctors, teachers, care workers, scout leaders and former police officers. A pedophile is a 16 years of age person or older, who is primarily or exclusively sexually attracted to children who have not begun puberty, that is girls, 10 years old or less, and boys, 11 years old or less, on the average. Medically, this condition is classified by the American Psychiatric Association as a mental disorder. Phil Gormley, NCA Deputy Director General said the arrests were the result of an “unprecedented” six-month operation, which involved the police forces across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. He said that more than 400

children had been protected as a result of the operation. Gormley said that charges had not yet been finalised in most cases, but some had already been charged with offences ranging from the possession of indecent images of children to serious sexual assault. “Some of the people who start by accessing indecent images online go on to abuse children directly,” he said. “So the operation is not only about catching people who have already offended - it is about influencing potential offenders before they cross that line,” he added. Gormley said that government wanted the offenders to know that the internet was no longer a safe, anonymous, space for accessing indecent images.

News Okpekpe: Appeal Court Dismisses Chieftaincy Suit By FRIDAY OBANOR

BENIN CITY – The Court of Appeal sitting in Benin City, Edo State has dismissed an appeal brought before it by His Royal Highness, Peter Abalume Osigbemeh, Boyo Okpo and James Okhakumw

over the Apa of Okpekpe chieftaincy title in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state for lack of merit. Ruling on the Appeal with suit No. CA/B/222/2004, against the initial the October 16, 2003 judgement of Edo State High Court sitting in

Auchi Judicial Division and presided over by Justice Crowell Idahosa (now Chief Judge), in favour of Sir Donald Salufu Egbagbe, Justice Ayobode Olujimi LokuloSodipe who read the judgement on behalf of Justice Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju and Justice Ibrahim

Chief Nursing Officer, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Mrs. Salimat Ola-Aroyewu (left) receiving gift items presented by officials of Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) and Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), at the Children’s ward in Lagos yeterday.

Mohammed Musa Saulawa held that the Appeal is unmeritorious as all the issue formulated for its determination by the Appellants have been resolved against them. The Appeal Court Judges who were unanimous in their judgement accordingly dismissed the case and affirmed the ruling of the lower court delivered on October 16, 2003 with the same initial cost of N25,000.00 in favour of the first respondent, Sir Donald Salufu Egbagbe against the Appellants. The Appelants led by HRH Peter Abalume Osigbemeh, Mr. Boyo Okpo and James Okhakume had filed an Interlocutory Appeal against the Respondents, Sir Donald Salufu Egbagbe, the Governor of Edo State, Attorney General of Edo State, Permanent Secretary Directorate of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Etsako East Traditional Rulers Council to

Oba Erediauwa Resolves Okezi, Isiedun Communities Boundary Dispute

BENIN CITY – the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa and his Chiefs in Council, have resolved the lingering boundary crisis between Isiedun and Okezi

communities, along Ekehuan Road in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. A panel of chiefs mandated by the Monarch and headed by Chief Osague of Benin

PUBLIC NOTICE GOZIE MADUKA-OSUIGWE CENTER FOR CULTURES, CIVILIZATION AND RESEARCH The general public is hereby notified that the above named Center has

applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990. BOARD OF TRUSTEES 1. Dr. (Barr.) Chukwugozie Maduka -President/Founder 2. Mr. Mark Odion Erabor - Director of Information AIMS & OBJECTIVES 1. Conduct all types of social science research 2. Promote community initiatives for restoration/sustenance of peace and for capacity building. 3. Promote the culture of book reading. 4. Foster advancement towards higher values and civilizations. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: Dr. (Barr.) Chukwugozie Maduka President/Founder

AUCTION SALES There will be a public auction sales of abandoned, accidented and unclaimed vehicles, motorcycles and household items at the following Police Divisions, Edo State Command. Date of sales is three weeks from this publication. OLOGBO DIVISION: Nissan Premira Car Reg. No. SMK 524 BB, Passat Car, Burnt Tanker Scrap, Santana Car Reg. No. BS89KJA, Kia Car, 14 motorcycles and other items. SABONGIDDA-ORA DIVISION: Mitsubishi Bus, 3 Simba M/Cycles Reg. Nos DT4842WF, QR308KTU, Daylong M/cycles and other Motorcycles contact Abu Osodionahon Police Auctioneer 08060382828, 08074007087

Kingdom said Isiedun community be bounded 500 feet from the main road, (the new Ekehuan road along Okezi road) as boundary demarcation between Isiedun and Okezi communities and Iguorokho community from the new Ekehuan road as boundary between it and Okezi community. A statement signed by Secretary to the Benin Monarch, Mr. Osazuwa oronsaye-Guobadia warned both parties not to tamper with two parcels of land, each

measuring 400 feet by 500 feet belonging to Omo N’Oba’s children.

the effect that the purported appointment of the 4th Defendant by the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th Defendants’ as the Apa (clan Head) and Onwueweke or howsoever called of Okpekpe in Etsako East Local Government vide ESLN No. 38 of 2002 is null and void in that it is contrary to Okpekpe Custom. Other claims were a declaration that the appointment of prescribed Authorities

(Amended Order, 1995) published as Edo State Legal Notice No. 2 of 1995 is null and void in that it is contrary to Okpekpe Custom, and an order setting aside the appointment of the 4th Defendant as the Apa (clan Head) and Onwueweke (clan Head) or howsoever called published in the Edo State Legal Notice No. 38 of 2002 and dated September 17, 2002 in that the purported appointment is contrary to Okpekpe Custom.

GWAGWALADA (FCT) The Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) branch, Mr Ben Ugheoke, in Abuja said the body has suspended the strike by its members. Ugheoke told newsmen in Abuja in a telephone interview that the decision was taken on Monday during a congress held at the institution’s minicampus. “We resolved at the congress to suspend the strike after signing an agreement with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Micheal Adikwu.

“The announcement on this will be done this (Tuesday) morning,’’ he said. Newsmen recall that the ASUU branch embarked on the strike on June 2, following what it called “Federal Government’s refusal to release the White Paper containing issues affecting the institution’’. The Federal Government had on July 16, 2012 constituted a Visitation Panel to resolve issues affecting the institution but the White Paper of the report was yet to be released.

UNIABUJA ASUU Suspends Strike

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, 2G Station for Africa, Mr. Jurgen Ophey; Head, Energy and Environment Desk, German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria, Baerbel Freyer and Consul General, German Embassy, Mr. Michael Derus at a seminar on embedded power generation organised by German Government in Lagos yesterday.

Edo Assembly Crisis Not Fuelled By Defection - Majority Leader

BENIN CITY - Mr Philip Shaibu, the Majority Leader, Edo House of Assembly (EDHA), said the crisis in the Assembly was not fueled by the defection of four All Progressives Congress (APC) legislators. Shaibu told newsmen on Tuesday in Benin that what happened was contrary to the claims making the rounds. “The crisis was rather fueled by the refusal of the four lawmakers who defected to the

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) to obey a court order,’’ he said. The legislator said the APC, whose members are in the majority in the House, had no problem with the defection of the four members to the PDP. He said the four PDP lawmakers had before their defection approached the court with prayers that the assembly

should not declare their seats vacant or suspend them. “We (the House) obeyed the first prayer. But the court did not grant them the second prayer, which was meant to stop us from suspending them should they defect. “The House of Assembly has its rules and it allows for the suspension of erring members and members who are

disobedient to its rules. “It was on this basis that the four erring members were suspended by the House. “They (PDP lawmakers) refused to obey the court order suspending them and even disregarded the court order which forbids them from the precinct of the assembly. ‘We cannot be lawmakers and at the same time be lawbreakers.

News 70 Nigerians In Detention In our last consular them get fair hearing. Abidjan visit“Butto theduring prison in Abidjan, we “Our duty as an embassy is to ABIDJAN - No fewer than 70 Nigerians are currently facing trials in Abidjan for different offences, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire, Amb. Ifeoma Akabogu-Chinwuba has said. Akabogu-Chinwuba told newsmen in Abidjan on Tuesday that an official list from the prison authorities showed that there were 85 Nigerians in detention.

were able to see about 70 of them instead of the 85 on the list. “Majority of those on the list are awaiting trial, most of them are detained for charges bothering on drug, money laundering and human trafficking,’’she said. The ambassador said that the embassy was doing its part to provide legal assistance for those still standing trial to enable

Red Meat Consumption Can Cause Fibroid

LAGOS - Dr Femi Ajayi, a physician with the Calvary Medical Centre, Ayobo, Lagos, says high consumption of red meat can lead to formation of fibroid in women. Ajayi told newsmen in Lagos on Tuesday that consumption of red meat could increase the estrogen level in the body which could allow the growth of fibroid. “Red meat is to be avoided as it promotes the growth of fibroid in women, “he advised. According to Ajayi, fibroid is a tumour that forms on the wall of a woman’s womb. He said that it occurred in women between the ages of 35 and 55. “Fibroid occurs in women in their childbearing stage, and does not have symptoms except if the fibroid is very large.” He said that fibroid could lead to miscarriages in pregnancy, painful sex, painful menstruation and heavy menses. According to him, a change in the diet of a fibroid patient can make fibroid to shrink. “There are other certain foods to be avoided when you suffer from fibroid in order to prevent it from getting bigger. “Reduce consumption of foods such as dairy products, alcohol, fast food, egg, sugary food, salted food, canned food, and saturated fat as they can increase the hormone that can feed the fibroid. “Eat foods such as beans,

- Expert

fruits, vegetables, fish and plenty of drinks which help in detoxification,” he said. The physician said that stress and lack of exercise could cause fibroid as they could increase a woman’s estrogen level. “Relief from stress on a daily basis and enough exercise will shrink fibroid tumour as well as prevent more from growing.” Ajayi added that fibroid would become smaller or disappear after menopause. He said that fibroid varies in sizes, and that surgery might be necessary to remove it if very large.

protect the rights of our citizens, so within the limits of the law, we are doing that,’’ she said. Akabogu-Chinwuba called on Nigerians residing or doing business in Cote d’Ivoire, to avoid being involved in acts that could ridicule Nigeria’s reputation. “It is not a good testimony to hear that our citizens are either in prison or detained for criminal acts; we need to be good ambassadors of our country. “As Nigerians, we need to engage in legitimate businesses, we need to protect the image of our country,’’ she said.

President Goodluck Jonathan press button to commission the Bagging section of Olam Rice Farm Nigeria in Rukubi Nasarawa State recently.

Bio Safety Bill Non EnvironmentFriendly - Environmentalist ABUJA - Mr Nnimmo Bassey, an environmentalist, said on Tuesday that the Bio safety Bill returned to the National Assembly was not environment-friendly. He told newsmen in Abuja that some provisions of the bill were defective as it lacked strict liability or redress. Bassey, who is a delegate at the ongoing National Conference, said the environment committee had

kicked against the passage of the bill. The bio safety bill which has gone back to the National Assembly does not have provision for strict liability or redress. “Somebody can come and contaminate our biodiversity with genetically engineered crops and will not be held liable or will not be punished for doing that and then will not restore the environment for those who

L-R: Water Resources Minister Serah Ochekpe, Agric Minister Adesina Akinwunmi, President Goodluck Jonathan, Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura and the Managing Director of Olam Rice Farm, Mr. Srivatsan cutting the tape to commission the Olam Rice Nigeria in Rukubi Nasarawa State recently.

ought to own it. “In the West, there are many cases where farmers who grow organic crops got their crops contaminated by their neighbours who have genetically modified crops. “May be by crops pollination or by wind pollination and then suddenly those who manufacture those crops, those seeds in the lab will now hold those whose farms were contaminated responsible for infringing their copyright.’’ The environmentalist said such act should not be encouraged, saying that the person who polluted the environment should be held responsible. He said that those countries in support of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) were always looking for ways to enter into other nations, expressing regrets that some countries were already opening up for them. Bassey said that for every application to introduce either genetically food product or a crop or animal or whatever there should be public enlightenment and participation so that people would know clearly if they want it or not. According to him, traditional biotechnology should be encouraged to boost yields.

Chibok Girls’ll Be Rescued Alive -Jonathan By JOSES SEDE

ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan has berated insinuations in some quarters that government has not done enough to rescue the abducted girls, saying such belief was very wrong and misplaced. Speaking, while playing host to Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani Girl-Child Education Campaigner, President Jonathan said the Federal

Government is doing everything possible to ensure the girls’ release. The President, however, explained to Malala, who was accompanied by her father and other members of her Foundation, that the Federal Government’s efforts were constrained by government’s resolve to ensure that the girls’ lives are not endangered in any rescue attempt. “Terror is relatively new here

and dealing with it has its challenges. The great challenge in rescuing the Chibok girls is the need to ensure that they are rescued alive. The Federal Government and its security agencies were very mindful of the need to avoid the scenario in rescue attempts in other parts of the world where lives of abductees were lost in the efforts to rescue them”, he continued. Despite this challenge, he

said, the Federal Government is actively pursuing all feasible options to achieve the safe return of the abducted girls. “The time it is taking to achieve that objective is not a question of the competence of the Nigerian Government. We have had teams from the United States, Britain, France, Israel and other friendly nations working with us here on the rescue effort and they all appreciate the challenges and

the need to tread carefully to achieve our purpose,” he stated. The President said he would meet with the parents himself before they leave Abuja to personally comfort them and reassure them that the Federal Government is doing all within its powers to rescue their daughters. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing safe and proper education for Nigerian children.

‘Biotechnology is not all that bad, we have traditional biotechnology that is how they make bread from yeast, process used to make beer; they are biotechnology. “There is tissue culture, they are multiplication of crops, they are not modern biotechnology, they are traditional biotechnology and they are okay, they are not harmful. “ Even issues of hybrids because if we can cross breed plants over time, you get better species, it could be okay and some of them are breed that way to fight diseases that are common. “But genetic engineering, other kinds of agriculture production is conventional or normal but when it comes to a modern genetic engineering they can pick a genetic material from an animal and put in a plant. “So, it cut across species and there are different things they use to make this happen which in themselves sometimes have implications.” Bassey, however, called on the Federal Government to consider the fact that the nation has yet to have a biosafety law with which the environment, our biosafety and biodiversity could be protected. He said that the government should consider also the fact that Nigeria was signatory to the Cartagena Protocol that had the cardinal precautionary principle. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement on biosafety, adopted on January 2000 and ratified in September 2003, as a supplement to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Biosafety Protocol seeks to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by genetically modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology.

South/South FG Committed To Youth-Based Programmes TAI (RIVERS)-The Minister of Agriculture, Mr Adewumi Adesina, has said the Federal Government was poised to adopting youthbased programmes to boost agriculture in the country. Adesina made the disclosure at the launch of a

new agricultural initiative in Niger Delta tagged “Creating Opportunities for Rural Youths (CORY)’’ held in Songhai Farms in Tai Local Government Council of Rivers. The minister, who was represented by Mr Abdulahi

Abubakar, the Deputy Director, Youths’ Agriculture, said youth-based agricultural programmes were initiated to enhance food sufficiency in the country. He said that the programme, which would last for three years, was targeted

at empowering 2,880 youths across the country in various agriculture entrepreneurship. “The essence of the programme is to train youths and provide them with starter packs to encourage self employment among our youths.

- Minister

“So far, between last year and now, CORY has trained 5,000 youths in various parts of the country.’’ Mr Pape Samb, the Programme facilitator, said CORY was a consortium of organisations geared toward bringing resources and support to strengthen rural business capacity among youths. He said the project budget included 1.95 million dollars grant from International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) “and a combination of in-kind and cash from other organisations amounting to

4.66 million dollars.’’ Samb said the initial focus of CORY would be to provide agricultural empowerment to rural youths and youth-led organisations in Benin, Cameroon, Nigeria and Gambia. Dr Irene Ibeakuzie, the National Coordinator of IFAD, expressed satisfaction with the programme, adding that it was in the interest of the nation’s economy. She said CORY was aimed at solving the unemployment problem among youths, as trainees would be empowered to contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Nigeria Repatriates 18 Illegal Immigrants

First Commercial Aircraft touching down at Dutse International Airport recently.

Flooding:

Residents Seek NDDC

CALABAR - Residents of Road ‘7’ and members of the Federal Low Cost Housing Residents Association, Calabar, has appealed to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for assistance following perennial floods in their areas. Chairman of the Residents’ Association, Dr Vincent Ogbeche, in a letter obtained by

our correspondent in Calabar, said the residents suffered from flooding during rainy seasons, especially in July and October. Ogbeche said this was because the road was not tarred and had a poor drainage system. He said: “As new buildings are springing up rapidly, draining water into the same gutter, the volume of water and intensity of flood also increases.”

BENIN CITY -The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Oredo Chapter is organising a 1Day Seminar for Ministers and Church Workers. The Theme of the seminar is “fulfilling your ministry. In a release jointly signed by Rev. Dr. C.O. Sadoh Chairman, Oredo chapter of PFN and Pastor Adewunmi Ozaveshe Balogun, programme Co-ordinator PFN Oredo chapter, the 1Day power packed programme will hold this week Saturday 19th July 2014, at Church of God Mission Int’l Inc. (Gospel House) Iyaro, Benin City. Time: 9 am prompt. The programme will feature prayer sessions

dedicated towards the peace of the land of Benin, Oredo, Edo State and Nigeria in general. Seasoned men of God will be teaching and ministering with signs and wonders. Amongst the ministers are Rev. Wilson Onwoha, Chairman PFN Edo South, Senatorial District Pastor Uyi John Alonge and others.

PFN Organises Seminar For Church Workers

Rev. Dr. C. O. Sadoh

Assistance

Ogbeche said the flood had been causing havoc to houses and impaired movement to work and school by parents and children living along the basin or the lowest lying area. “Each time we experience this, we run to NTA, NAN, CRBC, Cross River Radio and the Ministry of Works for help to no avail. “We have heard that contract for this project had been awarded by government several years ago but nothing has been done.

“Sir, your esteemed Commission is presently rehabilitating the Federal Housing Estate Police Station road through the Estate Nursery and Primary Schools up to the Customs’ Quarters. “We wish to seize the opportunity of your presence and humbly request you to kindly extend this ongoing project from the Estate Nursery/ Primary School to the Hotel, a distance of half a kilometre,” the letter stated.

UYO- The Akwa Ibom command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) said it repatriated 18 illegal immigrants to their various countries through Seme border. The command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibisha Jaja, made the disclosure in a statement issued in Uyo. He said the repatriated illegal immigrants included 10 Burkinabes, seven Togolese and one Beninoise. He added that the figure brings to 630, the number of illegal immigrants so far repatriated from the state by the command this year. He noted that the command had earlier repatriated 612 irregular African nationals to their countries of origin in the first five months of this year. They were mainly from Niger, Cameroun, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Guinea,

Flooded portion on Route 7, Federal Housing Estate, Ikot Ansa in Calabar recently.

Gambia and Togo. Jaja said the command had this month (July), rescued a victim of human trafficking and arrested the suspected trafficker. “The suspect, together with the victim, were on their way to Lagos for onward movement to Canada,” he added. The public relations officer said the command had handed over the two to the state office of NAPTIP. The Immigration image maker noted that the Comptroller of Immigration in Akwa Ibom, Alhaji Garba Abdullahi, had attributed the achievements of the command to the support of the state government. He quoted Abdullahi as thanking Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom for the logistic support given the command for its daily operations.

Lagos Yaba Polytechnic Re-Opens After Suspension Of ASUP Strike LAGOS - Members of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Yaba College of Technology Chapter, resumed work after five months strike. The National Executive Council of the union had on Saturday in Abuja announced the suspension of ASUP over 10 months strike. Mr Adeyemi Aromolaran, the ASUP Chairman, Yabatech Chapter, told newsmen that members of the union resumed work following the directive from the national body. Aromolaran charged members of the union to double their efforts to make-up for the time lost during the strike. “We will make sure we double our efforts and cover the syllabus for the period. “That is the assurance we have for our students and the management. “Our members have complied with the directive of the national body to suspend the strike. “We went on strike on the orders of the national body, and the union has suspended the strike for three months for us to continue to negotiate with the government. “So, let us give the new minister the benefit of doubts as requested by him,’’ he said. Aromolaran said that the union had met with the management of the institution, adding that academic activities would commence soon. “We do not expect students to just rush in like that; they need to be formally invited back to school. “The school was shut down for five months; management will need to put some things in place before inviting the students back. “We have met with the management; they will announce the resumption date soon; you do not expect them to just rush things,’’ the chairman said. Newsmen who monitored activities on the campus reports that students were trooping in with their luggage in the early hours of the day. The excited students were seen exchanging pleasantries with friends, and gathered in groups to discuss the development. Mr. Charles Oni, the institution’s Spokesman, told newsmen that the institution had resumed for the 2013/2014 academic session and that lectures would commence immediately. Oni said that the suspension of the strike was a great relief to the management and students. According to him, the institution will maintain its 17week academic calendar. “Everybody is happy that the institution is resuming; we have lost a semester already; everybody is eager that work starts immediately. “We were at the verge of starting a new session when the strike started, and we are five months behind in the semester. “Once a semester is lost, there is nothing we can do than to repackage our academic calendar. “In a short while, the academic board will be invited to repackage the college calendar.

Be Security Conscious, LASG Urges Principals, Headteachers

L-R: Oyo State Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Adebayo Ayeni; Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Chief Moses Alake-Adeyemo and Guest Speaker, Dr. Rashidi Okunola, at the Corps 2014 Security Summit in Ibadan recently.

LAGOS-The Lagos State Government has advised principals and head teachers in its primary and secondary schools to be safety and security conscious. Mrs Josephine Williams, the state Head of Service, gave the advice in Lagos at an interactive session with the schools managers. She said that the call for security consciousness was not informed by any suspected security breaches but the need for people to be at alert at all times. “It is imperative for everybody to learn from what is happening in some other states. “School administrators should continue to inform pupils and

Federal Polytechnic Bauchi Gate opens as Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) suspends strike recently.

Gynaecologist Calls For More Midwives

Maternal Mortality: LAGOS- Dr Luther-King Fasehun, the Technical and Policy Officer, Wellbeing Foundation Africa, has called for more skilled midwives in Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) to reduce maternal deaths in the country. Fasehun, who is also a Gynaecologist, made the call when he spoke with newsmen in Lagos. He said that inadequate number of skilled midwives in most PHCs, especially at the grassroots contributed to the high rate of maternal mortality. Fasehun described maternal deaths as deaths which occur during labour, delivery or the first 24 hours after delivery. He said that skilled care during pregnancy, childbirth and the immediate postpartum period by healthcare professionals such as midwives with appropriate skills was one of the key interventions to reduce maternal mortality. “Nigeria as a country represents at least 10 per cent of the global maternal mortality burden, with a currently estimated maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 487 per 100,000

live births as at 2011. “These deaths are unacceptable because studies have also shown that maternal mortality can be prevented even in the most difficult places or situation with skilled health personnel. “PHCs are the first point of care for most pregnant women but most of these PHCs experience shortage of midwives. “Midwives can play a crucial role in preventing the deaths of millions of women and children who die during and around the time of pregnancy,” he said. Fasehun said that midwives were cheaper to train and could handle interventions needed during uncomplicated deliveries, while obstetricians were needed when surgical interventions such as Cesarean Sections were necessary. “Midwives can administer antibiotics for infections and medications to stimulate or strengthen labour. “They can also remove the placenta from a patient having a hemorrhage as well as handle many other complications that

may occur in the mother or her baby. “When both midwives and obstetricians who provide family planning are available more lives can be saved,” he said. Fasehun urged the three tiers of governments and stakeholders in the health sector to also ensure the deployment of midwives

with adequate remuneration to the rural areas where most of the maternal deaths occur. “ We must recognise the unique skills, roles and responsibilities midwives bring to delivery care and the central role that midwives play in making motherhood safer,” she said.

students to be aware of what is happening in their surroundings,” she said. The head of service, however, urged members of the public to desist from spreading unverified security-related text messages. She called on the members of the public to forward such messages to security agencies for resolution of the content. “Government on its part will step up provision of improved infrastructure in our schools particularly perimeter fencing of schools in order to beef up security,” she said. Williams urged school managers to advise their pupils and students not to pick what does not belong to them.

NGO Holds Valedictory Session For Aturu

LAGOS- The Centre For Leadership and Excellence (CLE), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), will tomorrow hold a valedictory session for the late human rights activist and lawyer, Mr Bamidele Aturu. In a statement issued in Lagos by its Chairman, Mr Austin Nnorom, CLE said that the session would be used to pay tribute to the late lawyer. Aturu, 49, died on July 9 in a Lagos hospital after a brief illness. “Aturu aged deserves every honour we can bestow on him as a legal and human rights icon. “He stood out in his struggle for social justice. “ Aturu lived a life of sacrifice; he will be remembered for his struggle against injustice,” he said. Nnorom said that the event, to be hold in Lagos, would bring together human rights activists and statesmen. He said that the programme was not a political event and would not be used for any political purposes, since the late Aturu was a nationalist.

28,732 Nigerians Educated In India

LAGOS- Dr Collins Nyenze, President of the Indian Universities Alumni Association of Nigeria, has said that about 28,732 Nigerians have been educated in various Indian Colleges and Universities. Nyenze disclosed this to newsmen on the sidelines of a farewell party organised by the association for the outgoing Head of the Lagos Office of the High Commission of India, Mrs. Rani Malick. “From my association’s record so far, not less than 28,732 Nigerians have been educated in various Indian Colleges and Universities. “And today, most of us are happy that we had the opportunities to study in these

- Association

educational institutions. “These Indian institutions had the facilities and learning environment that allowed us to become who we are today. “Most of us who studied in these Indian colleges and universities are today doing well in our various fields and we are happy with ourselves,’’ he said. The association’s president said that such Nigerians, with various areas of specialization, were presently contributing to Nigeria’s development, as well as the growth of their immediate communities. Nyenze said that they had over the years distinguished themselves in accounting,

political science, public administration, medicine, pharmacy, engineering and other fields, across Nigeria. He, therefore, urged the Federal Government to embrace plans by Indian colleges and universities to establish their institutions in Nigeria. Nyenze expressed confidence in the facilities and educational standards of the Indian colleges and universities. “It is my firm belief that the establishment of Indian colleges and universities in Nigeria will make young Nigerians have access to qualitative education. “I strongly believe that their coming will open a new educational perspective to young Nigerians,’’ he added.

Across The Nation N25m Theft

2 Men Remanded

Security operatives at the main entrance of Adamawa House of Assembly in Yola, shortly before the Impeachment of Governor Murtala Nyanko on Tuesday.

ABUJA - Two men charged with theft of N25 million were remanded in prison by an Abuja Senior Magistrates’ Court sitting in Karu. The remand order was made by the Senior Magistrate, Mrs Omolola Akindele, to enable the court to study the bail application of the accused. The accused, Godwin Ajumi and Henry Nwobi, who are Sales Representatives at MicManers Investment Ltd., Utako, Abuja, were alleged to have stolen the money which belonged to the company. Charged with joint act,

criminal conspiracy and theft offences, they were said to have converted the money, which were proceeds from sale of goods, to their personal use. The accused denied the charges and their counsel, Mr Anthony Odule, made an oral application for bail to enable them to prepare for defence. The prosecutor, Sgt Bulus Samuel, objected to the application on the grounds that investigation in the case was ongoing. Samuel told the court that the accused were assisting the police in identifying a third

staff so as to enhance the resolution of the crisis. “Government should also consider the oppressed that are in custody, as the court remains their only hope.” In a related development, some other Nigerians who have pending matters in court have also expressed worry over the judiciary strike. One Mr Sunday Uram said

his son was arrested two weeks ago on allegation of defrauding his boss. ‘ It is today his bail application could have been looked into. “With this strike of judiciary staff, what it means he will continue to be in police custody until the strike is over. “I beg government not to allow this strike to linger.”

Lawyers Want Judicial Workers Strike Resolved

NSUKKA (ENUGU STATE) - Following the strike by the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria(JUSUN), some lawyers have appealed to the Federal Government and the striking staff of judiciary to resolve their differences. They told newsmen that suspects to be granted bail by the court would continue to be in custody unless the strike was called off. Mr Elias Agu, a legal practitioner, said that the people in custody would feel the pinch of the ongoing judiciary workers’ strike “The people that will feel the pinch of this strike are those in custody. “Other people who have matters in the court have their freedom, they can go home and relax, whenever the strike is over, they continue with their

matters. “We are calling on relevant agents of government to expedite action to see that issue is resolved once and for all.” Agu said that lawyers would be immensely affected on the closure of court because of strike, noting that it is from court that majority of lawyers earn their daily living. “What it means is that lawyers will be staying at home until the strike is called off. “We have our families and other people who get food on their table from us. “ I urge government and judiciary staff to resolve their problem before the end of this week.” Another lawyer, Mr Newman Ugwu, urged government and judiciary staff to put the interest of poor masses above their personal interest, saying

lawlessness and anarchy take over the land if the court is shut down. “Judiciary is the last hope of a common man, so when it is not working the society may be thrown to a state of lawlessness. “Government should please listen to demands of judiciary

Lagos JUSUN: Satisfied With Strike LAGOS - The Judiciary Lagos that the state recorded differences without delay in Staff Union of Nigeria full compliance with the Compliance the interest of justice (JUSUN), Lagos State Branch, has expressed satisfaction at its members’ compliance with the ongoing strike. The branch Chairman, Mr Emmanuel Abioye, told newsmen on Tuesday in

Nutritionist Advocates Consumption IBADAN- Dr Paul Ilona, the Of Yellow Root Cassava Country Manager, HarvestPlus Nigeria, has said that yellow root cassava varieties have the advantage of increasing nutritional quality of food products. Ilona said this in an interview with newsmen in Ibadan. He said the yellow root cassava which was among the newly released Vitamin A fortified varieties could reduce the cost of production since there would be no need to add palm oil to give ‘garri’ a yellow coloration. According to him, the yellow cassava varieties would preserve better as it eliminates the rapid rancidity that results from palm oil addition. “The high pro-Vitamin A varieties were developed through conventional breeding and did not involve the use of biotechnology. “It marks the release of a second wave pro-Vitamin A

cassava varieties in Nigeria and the first in Africa. “The next steps should be the rapid production of breeder and foundation seed stock so that commercial farmers would have access to these new

suspect in the alleged offence. He said that the case was reported by Mr Emmanuel Umeugoji, the Managing Director of the Mic-Maners Ltd after he discovered that the money was not remitted into the company’s account. He said that during interrogation, the suspects confessed that they gave the money to the fleeing suspect to help them to deposit it in their bank accounts. He prosecutor told the court that the offence contravened sections 97 (b), 314 and 289 of the Penal Code. In her ruling, Akindele said, “I have listened to the arguments of the defence and prosecution on whether or not to grant the accused bail. “I would have asked you to come by way of motion but since I took my time in recording your applications, I will have to take a short date for ruling.” Consequently, she adjourned the case to Thursday and ordered that the accused should be remanded in prison.

varieties. “Our goal is to make sure that Nigerian farmers and households are able to grow and eat more nutritious cassava that is richer in Vitamin A.

directive. “The strike started on Friday, July 11, and it has been total in Lagos State. “All courts in the state have been shut down in compliance with a directive issued by the National Executive Council of JUSUN. “We will only call off the strike if we are directed to do so by the national body,” Abioye said. Reports state that JUSUN had in a communique issued on July 11, directed its

Illegal structures being demolished for a road construction at Bukuru in Jos recently.

members nationwide to shut down all state courts in the country. The indefinite nationwide strike was to protest noncompliance of state governments to a court order which compelled financial autonomy and independence of the judiciary. The communique was jointly signed by the National President of the union, Mr Marwan Adamu, and the General Secretary, Mr Isaiah Adetola. Reports state that the premises of the Ikeja High Court has been under lock and look deserted since Monday. In the Badagry Division of the High Court of Lagos, the strike also paralysed judiciary activities in the magistrates’ and high courts. Over correspondent who monitored the strike in Badagry reports that lawyers and litigants were loitering around the premises. Some of the lawyers and litigants, who spoke to newsmen, appealed to the association and the state government to resolve their

administration. Mr Chinedu Imoko, a lawyer, said that the strike had a negative effect on justice delivery. “As we all know, justice delayed is justice denied. This strike is delaying so many cases, and this is not good. “The government and the association should come together and put away their differences for the sake of justice,” he said. Another lawyer, Mr Nike Adepoju, pleaded with the union to end the strike. “I understand the union but I think there are other ways to press for the demands to be met. “Strike paralyses everything; innocent people are affected,” Adepoju said. A litigant, Demola Badejo, told newsmen: “I came all the way from Ojo; I went through hell because of traffic and all that. “On getting here, I was told that the court is not sitting because of strike by judiciary workers. “This is not fair at all because we are the ones suffering this.’’

Abuja Revenue Sharing

Minister Pledges Transparency ABUJA- The newly appointed Minister of State for Finance, Mr Bashir Yuguda, in Abuja has promised to ensure transparency in the sharing of revenue in the country. Yuguda made the promise when he was formally received in the ministry, by the senior management staff, including the permanent secretary and directors. He said what usually brought discontent in the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting was when commissioners of Finance were not carried along in all decisions concerning revenue allocations. He promised to work with the commissioners so that everyone could leave the meetings satisfied. “The way to move beyond all the disagreement that used to occur with the commissioners of Finance during FAAC is to improve transparency in the way it is conducted. “There is nothing hidden in the sharing of the revenue coming into the coffers of government. “So, once everything is laid

before the governors, through their representatives; the accountants-general and commissioners of Finance, we will not have any problem,’’ he said. Yuguda promised to work with the Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to achieve the mandate of the ministry. “What I am bringing to the Ministry of Finance is a continuity of service. “I have been a minister in Nigeria for the last three and a half years, so I am continuing with the mandate of Mr. President. “I assure you that I am a team player and I know my role as the Minister of State for Finance. “I will work with my permanent Secretary and directors and with the cooperation of the coordinating Minister of the Economy; I should be able to deliver on my assignment,’’ he said. It would be recalled that Yuguda served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar from 2008 to 2011. He was until recently, the

L-R: New Minister of State for Works, Mr. Adetoye Adeyeye, his predecessor, Amb. Bashir Yuguda and Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Mohammed, during the hand over to the new Minister of State for Works in Abuja recently.

Military Is Fighting Terrorism With Caution -Minimah

ABUJA-The Chief of Army Staff , Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, has said that the military was exercising caution in its anti-terrorism operations to avoid killing innocent Nigerians. Minimah said this at the opening of the Chief of Army Staff Quarterly Conference in Abuja. He explained that the war against terrorism was not a conventional war saying that the

Nigerian Army “is conventional and regular”. “We are also now fighting terrorism; the terrorist is someone you don’t know. “It may be someone who sold food or fruit to you in the morning, by the evening he is a terrorist “Now, we are having all that in

Appointment Of Women Bishops: Church Of England Derailed

ABUJA - The Anglican Bishop of Ngbo, in Ebonyi, Rt. Rev Christian Ebisike, has described the decision of the Church of England (CofE) to allow women become bishops as a “deviation’’ from Bible’s teachings. Speaking to newsmen in a telephone interview in Abuja, Ebisike said the decision of England to admit women to the episcopate would further strain its relationship with the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). His comments came a day after the Church of England’s Synod voted in favour of measures that would pave the way for women to be ordained as bishops. The synod voted 351

members in favour of the measures, 72 opposed and 10 abstained. “The Archbishop of Canterbury (Justin Welby) and by extension the Church of England did not do their homework very well and I do not think they consulted widely with other Provinces of the Anglican Communion. “The Church of England should see itself as a role model for the Anglican Communion but unfortunately, it is not living up to that role. “From the Bible and Church history, there was no woman apostle, women served as evangelists and teachers in the early church. “A bishop is a universal

- Bishop

figure; where a bishop is not recognized by some parts of the communion, that is not a bishop. “When you ordain a bishop and he is not recognized by some parts of the communion that is not a bishop,’’ Ebisike said. He hinted that the House of Bishops of the Church of Nigeria, through the Primate, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, would likely issue a formal statement on the issue. He, however, noted that the Church of Nigeria had maintained a consistent position on the issue of ordination of women over the years. “In 2005, the Standing

Minister of Communication Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson (middle) with some girls undergoing ICT Training at the 1000 Girls ICT Training Programme of the Ministry in Abuja recently.

Committee of the Church resolved that the Church of Nigeria was not ripe for the ordination of women. “A pastoral letter issued same year by Archbishop Peter Akinola, the then Primate, strongly reaffirmed that. “The Church arrived at this conclusion after a wide consultation with members of the House of bishops, clergy and laity and other ecumenical partners. “What was interesting in Nigeria was that it was the womenfolk of the Church who were sternly opposed the ordination of women. ‘The Church approved Diaconate Ordination which allows women to come into the “ordained ministry’’ but they would remain deacons as long as they wish to be part of the ministry,’’ he said. Newsmen report that the Church of Nigeria, an offshoot of the Church of England, was inaugurated on February 24, 1979. However, in September 2005, the Nigeria Church amended its constitution and “redefined” its relationship with the ‘Mother church’. In the amended constitution of the Church of Nigeria, all former references to “communion with the See of Canterbury’ were deleted. It defined the Church of Nigeria as being “ in communion with all Anglican Churches, Dioceses and Provinces that hold and maintain the Historic Faith, Doctrine, Sacrament and Discipline of the one Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church’’.

interplay in the battle fronts in the North-East; we have to be cautious to separate the terrorists from the law-abiding citizens. “We also have human rights to protect. Because you just don’t go out and start killing people that they are terrorists. “Some are innocent Nigerians; we are bound by all the international treaties of the human rights, and therefore we need time. “ I know the expectations of the Nigerian citizens are that this thing should be over by yesterday. “But the reality is that it would not have been over by yesterday because of the structure and dynamics of fighting this type of terrorism.’’ Minimah, however, appealed for the support of all, including the media, saying that the army needed time and patience for the terrorists to be defeated. According to him, the army has enough equipment to fight the war as the Federal Government is also introducing newer equipment to the military to fight the war.

Minimah also called for the need to address the rising acts of indiscipline and unprofessional conduct by troops. On indiscipline, he noted that the recent near mutinous act in Maiduguri and reported destruction of public property in Lagos readily came to mind. While explaining the incident in Lagos, he said that a soldier was killed by a BRT vehicle and as the late soldier and the BRT were removed hoodlums, vandals and hooligans took over and burnt government property. He said that it was not the army that burnt government property. “As a professional army, highly disciplined and hierarchical organisation, the conduct of our troops must be above board at all times “I charge all commanders to put measures in place to check acts of indiscipline and misconduct of personnel under their command. The image of the army must always be protected. “Let me reminded us of our obligation to strictly abide by our constitutional roles to defend our country and people.

Man Jailed For Obstructing Wife’s Arrest GWAGWALADA (FCT) A 26-year-old mechanic, Mohammed Isah, was sentenced to two months in prison by an Upper Area Court sitting in Gwagwalada, FCT, for obstructing arrest of his wife. The judge, Alhaji Alhassan Kusherki, however, gave him an option to pay N 10, 000 as fine. “The court convicts you, Mohammed Isah, of the offence of obstruction which is contrary to Section 148 of the Penal Code and punishable under same section which you said is true. “You are hereby given the option to pay a fine of N 10,000 or spend two months in prison in default of payment.

“This punishment would serve as a deterrent to others and for the convict to be a good citizen,’’ he said. The prosecutor, Insp Martha Paul, had earlier told the court that on July 13, the convict obstructed one, Cpl Adaji Ominka and one other policeman, attached to Gwagwalada Police Station from arresting the wife. Paul said the convict’s wife, Bilikisu Mohammed, was involved in a case of causing hurt and the policemen were at his house in Angwan dodo to arrest her when he prevented them from doing so. She said the offence contravened Section 148 of the Penal Code. The convict pleaded guilty to the offence.

Business + Economy Mining: FG To Discourage Use Of Mercury, Cyanide ABUJA- The Federal Government has said that henceforth, it would encourage the use of borax for mining

operations instead of the popular mercury and cyanide. Mr Dauda Awojobi, the Acting Director of Mines Inspectorate, Ministry of Mines and Steel

Development, made this known in an interview with newsmen in Abuja. Awojobi said that borax was a more environmentally and

Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga (left), being welcomed by the Managing Director, Bank of Industry, Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa (right), during the inauguration of the Board of Directors of the Bank in Abuja. With them is Chairman of the Board, Mr. Abdulsamad Rabiu.

human friendly chemical than mercury and cyanide. “Mercury and cyanide are extremely toxic. Latest research and development have revealed that the use of borax is internationally acceptable and friendly,” he said. He recalled that the ministry collaborated with civil society organisations, global agencies, ministry of health and ministry of environment to remediate polluted environment after the lead poison incident in Zamfara. “We made the people to realise that their mineral extraction methods are harmful. They were using mortar and pestle to grind the schist called pegmatite,’’ he said. He explained that in the process of grinding the minerals, the dust and other elements from the minerals infiltrated the body systems of the people and made them to develop serious health problems. Awojobi said that the Federal Government had developed a new concept called “safer mining method’’ which involved the use of wet mini machines for

A cultural dance troupe performing during Dinner at the NNPC capacity building workshop for Media practitioners in Uyo, Akwa Ibom recently.

mining activities. He said that the ministry had carried out regular public awareness campaign for artisanal and small-scale miners to enhance control and proper management of mining sites. He also said the ministry had established an integrated research platform to address specific health and safety issues, adding that efforts were being made to ensure safety during mining operations. According to her, the measures were introduced to forestall the recurrence of the Zamfara lead poison incident in any part of the country. Awojobi further disclosed that President Goodluck Jonathan had constituted a Mines Surveillance Task Force to curb the rising menace of illegal miners across the country.

“The president has also constituted a committee that would work on a seven-year development plan for the solid minerals sector. “It was recommended that a department should be established to regulate the activities of illegal miners,’’ he said, adding that the Department of Artisanal and Small Scale Mining had started organising illegal miners into cooperatives. “Organising the miners into cooperatives will help to expose them to salient mining issues such as the right approach to mineral extraction, the issue of mineral title approval and extension services training. “This is the way we are approaching it and it is the best approach worldwide; it is not about arresting, prosecuting and sending illegal miners to prison.

ABUJA-The governments of Nigeria and Liberia have inaugurated the Nigeria-Liberia Joint Commission with a view to strengthening bilateral relations between both countries. The Minister of State II for Foreign Affairs, Dr Nurudeen Mohammed, led the Nigerian delegation while Mr. Augustine Ngafuan, the Liberian Foreign Affairs Minister, led his country’s delegation. In his remarks, at the inauguration, Mohammed said that the trade volume between both countries was low, saying that the joint commission would develop a framework that would improve the trade relations. “The joint commission would serve as a platform for both countries to further deepen bilateral relations between the two countries. “The volume of trade between the two countries is very low and since we are in the era of

economic diplomacy, I believe at the end of this joint commission, we would have a robust framework to increase the volume of trade between Nigeria and Liberia. “Nigeria is fully committed to the promotion of democracy, rule of law, human rights and good governance at both regional and continental levels. “Whatever we are about to do should be in the spirit of promoting peaceful coexistence and economic development in the sub region in general.” The minister also commended efforts made by the ambassadors of both countries in ensuring the inauguration of the joint commission. In his address, Ngafuan reiterated the need for both countries to take advantage of the opportunities that existed to foster bilateral relations between both countries. He assured increased economic ties between both countries. “We have come to take a giant leap forward on the path to rekindle, deepen and consolidate the already rooted ties between Nigeria and Liberia. “We have come to renew our commitment to development and to reactivate the joint commission with instruments that will solidify the bilateral

Nigeria, Liberia Inaugurate Joint Commission

GDP Rebasing: Department Decries

Exclusion Of Forest Products

ABUJA- The Federal Department of Forestry in the Federal Ministry of Environment has decried the exclusion of forest products in the recent rebasing of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Mr Philip Bankole, the Director of Forest Utilisation and Biosafety, made the observation when the officials of the department visited the Kugbo Furniture Market in Abuja. Reports state that the field trip was aimed at getting the staff of the department acquainted with forest products. “The purpose of this field trip is to get us acquainted with or have a practical experience of available forest products.” Bankole expressed regret that the potential of forest products had been undermined whereas hit had the capacity to increase the national GDP.

He, however, expressed the government’s commitment in repositioning the sub-sector for wealth creation and income generation for the citizens. He said the department was collaborating with stakeholders to identify forest resources and products as well as design methods of utilising those products. “Through this, we can be able to identify wild fruits, wild vegetables as well as products that can improve our well-being, but not Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). “This will further give an orientation of how important our department is to national economy.’’ While addressing Timber Dealers Association and officials of Kugbo Furniture Manufacturers, Bankole encouraged them to register with

the Forestry Department for proper regulation of their activities. He said the collaboration with the department would provide a platform for the government to identify where to assist them.

He also promised that the department would also secure a land specifically for tree plantation that would serve as source of wood in the nearest future. Responding, Mr Ajuluchukwu

Anikpe, the Chairman of the association, decried the depletion of Iroko and Mahogany in the forest. He said the demand on those two trees was always high, adding that due to its short supply, wood users had no option than to go for inferior quality of trees.

ABUJA- The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has said 170 candidates had been selected for its overseas scholarship sheme for 2014/ 2015 academic session. This is contained in a statement by Mr Kalu Otisi, Head, Media and External Relations of the fund, which was made available to newsmen in Abuja. It said the scholarship award was for Master of Science degree studies in oil and gas-related courses in top ranked

universities abroad. It explained that the award was the outcome of an aptitude test it conducted in December 2013 as part of the process for the selection of beneficiaries of the award. “The successful candidates are made up of four best performing candidates in the aptitude examinations from each of the 36 states and two from the Federal Capital Territory. “Others selected for the award include two additional

candidates from each of the nine oil endowed states of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, Rivers and Bayelsa. “Six female candidates with the highest scores in each of the six geo-political zones also received scholarship awards on gender consideration,” it stated. The fund said that although the aptitude examination was written by candidates who applied for the 2013/14 and 2014/15 scholarship

170 Students Bag PTDF Overseas Scholarship programmes, there was no discrimination on the basis of year of application in considering those selected for the award. It explained that the candidates were assessed on performances and based on their states “to reflect the Federal Character principle”. “The induction of successful candidates for the scholarship award is scheduled for the 11th to 15th of August 2014,” it stated.

NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY (EQUITIES) AS AT YESTERDAY (16/07/2014) Stocks

Open

Change

Deals

Units

Value

MOBIL

140.15

147.15

56,273

8,273,293.20

7UP

100.03

21,032

2,208,990.96

MRS

62.43

21,370

1,280,050.80

ABCTRANS

0.87

0.89

0.02

340,500

302,359.00

MTI

0.5

500

250

ACCESS

9.74

9.68

-0.06

8,513,525

82,993,265.85

MULTIVERSE

0.5

4,000

2,000.00

AFRINSURE

0.5

500

250

NAHCO

4.92

4.94

0.02

576,342

2,836,436.24

AFRIPRUD

3.33

3.43

0.1

790,949

2,667,160.03

NASCON

11.12

-0.12

7,260,225

78,809,139.15

AGLEVENT

1.33

97,298

128,545.12

172.22

176.8

4.58

689,432

120,403,122.90

15.2

1,500

22,500.00

AIICO

0.83

0.8

-0.03

1,058,547

854,741.91

NCR

AIRSERVICE

2.34

2.23

-0.11

289,250

647,304.30

NEM

0.81

0.79

-0.02

1,542,500

1,234,716.24

ASHAKACEM

33.02

-0.98

4,587,293

151,374,428.10

NESTLE

1112

1124.9

12.9

102,342

114,872,089.20

2,090.00

NEWGOLD

2056

2033

-23

40,660.00

AUSTINLAZ

1,000

AVONCROWN

1.69

450

760.5

NIG-GERMAN

7.36

1,000

7,000.00

BERGER

11,000

95,962.00

NIGERINS

0.5

508,000

254,000.00

19.75

18.77

-0.98

297,931

5,592,894.87

BETAGLAS

16.3

22,000

376,420.00

NNFM

BOCGAS

5.76

24,000

131,520.00

NPFMCRFBK

1.05

0.05

580,755

583,335.00

CADBURY

74.25

98,187

7,093,849.63

NSE30

1952.06

1958.32

6.26

120,629,415

2,693,365,137.00

CAP

40.95

40.1

-0.85

219,070

8,760,649.50

NSE50

2109.64

2116.03

6.39

287,517,728

2,979,243,225.00

CAPOIL

0.5

684,236

342,118.00

NSEASEM

949.05

684,236

342,118.00

CAVERTON

6.79

62,210

421,719.00

NSEASI

42971.59

43030.3

58.71

316,474,322

3,060,479,266.00

3,725,934.48

NSEBNK

444.57

444.42

-0.15

68,956,491

723,640,216.60

CCNN

335,304

CHAMPION

10.17

6,450

62,371.50

NSECNSMRGDS

1046.1

1059.71

13.61

12,085,127

433,540,677.30

CHAMS

0.5

500

250

NSEINDUSTR

2755.24

2770.98

15.74

8,144,177

657,086,962.60

CHELLARAM

3.95

864

3,248.64

NSEINS

149.43

148.2

-1.23

20,517,697

19,157,815.47

CILEASING

0.5

200

100

NSELOTUSISLM

2846.03

2851.49

5.46

17,724,361

971,969,098.70

CONOIL

65.6

81,220

5,149,256.16

NSEOILGAS

481.38

478.13

-3.25

18,216,491

566,335,232.10

CONTINSURE

1.17

1.12

-0.05

6,686,200

7,586,603.05

OANDO

27.95

26.57

-1.38

17,281,206

466,327,226.10

CORNERST

0.5

500

250

OKOMUOIL

135,234

4,464,079.21

COSTAIN

1.25

1.19

-0.06

176,580

212,676.00

PAINTCOM

1.4

1,000

1,470.00

COURTVILLE

0.58

0.57

-0.01

818,400

464,174.00

PORTPAINT

4.92

73,230

377,866.80

CUSTODYINS

3.8

848,185

3,200,639.49

PREMBREW

0.77

200

160

CUTIX

1.8

39,333

71,732.73

PRESCO

38.06

225,000

8,558,750.00

CWG

500

2,450.00

PRESTIGE

0.55

0.54

-0.01

409,884

221,617.36 778,727.00

DANGCEM

240.99

240

-0.99

1,239,291

299,719,272.00

REDSTAREX

4.85

163,900

DANGFLOUR

8.01

0.01

192,737

1,546,098.73

ROYALEX

0.54

0.53

-0.01

103,285

54,741.05

DANGSUGAR

9.38

9.05

-0.33

1,070,859

9,857,717.16

RTBRISCOE

1.04

5,059

5,414.82

DIAMONDBNK

6.29

6.27

-0.02

2,566,810

16,110,003.27

SEPLAT

700

702

45,764

32,094,917.35

EQUITYASUR

0.5

50,000

25,000.00

SKYEBANK

3.35

3.22

-0.13

23,700,561

77,031,082.23

ETERNA

4.29

390,407

1,679,766.45

SOVRENINS

0.5

2,000

1,000.00

ETI

17.39

938,737

16,318,561.96

STANBIC

27.5

237,140

6,560,284.47

EVANSMED

2.3

10,000

23,100.00

STERLNBANK

2.32

2.31

-0.01

1,986,223

4,628,178.53

FBNH

16.25

16.05

-0.2

18,025,127

291,375,756.00

STUDPRESS

2.4

500

1,140.00

FCMB

4.33

4.19

-0.14

1,606,122

6,669,181.84

TOTAL

171.05

179.6

8.55

122,071

21,606,184.40

FIDELITYBK

1.95

1.96

0.01

6,831,248

13,448,247.99

TRANSCORP

5.85

5.78

-0.07

27,774,255

160,714,399.60

FIDSON

2.95

-0.05

268,540

819,226.00

TRANSEXPR

2.06

8,500

18,190.00

18.3

54,292

971,291.61

FIRSTALUM

0.5

2,000

1,000.00

UAC-PROP

FLOURMILL

77.87

51,228

3,917,984.99

UACN

61.1

0.9

293,847

18,212,297.50

240

263,944

62,019,454.99

UBA

8.09

8,397,182

67,725,332.50

FORTISMFB

5.96

1,000

6,000.00

UBCAP

2.18

2.2

0.02

3,878,559

8,484,366.46

GCAPPA

14.46

200

2,748.00

UBN

9.54

-0.46

450,850

4,317,785.07

GLAXOSMITH

18,292

1,207,778.00

UNHOMES

0.5

41,250

20,625.00

258,361,634.40

UNILEVER

52.8

0.8

869,356

45,295,383.85

GUARANTY

8,332,684

GUINNESS

198.02

198.9

0.88

82,764

16,482,811.99

UNITYBNK

0.5

114,033,987

57,016,993.50

HMARKINS

0.5

500

250

UNIVINSURE

0.5

124,000

62,000.00

HONYFLOUR

4.4

4.5

0.1

664,143

2,982,768.74

UPDCREIT

10.47

9.95

-0.52

311,127

3,095,713.65

IKEJAHOTEL

0.75

0.78

0.03

997,800

721,441.50

UPL

4.4

133,042

574,591.36

INFINITY

1.6

VETGRIF30

19.52

19.58

0.06

100

1,958.00

4.38

38,934

164,228.15 274

INTBREW

29.5

606,032

17,799,510.38

VITAFOAM

INTENEGINS

0.5

2,992,237

1,496,507.72

VONO

1.44

200

INTERLINK

4.9

700

3,262.00

WAPCO

117.6

119.85

2.25

1,616,656

192,583,227.00

0.92

8,915,635

8,119,740.41

JAPAULOIL

0.58

0.59

0.01

6,525,440

3,852,355.97

WAPIC

JBERGER

64.28

-2.72

392,858

25,247,611.04

WEMABANK

0.97

-0.03

1,381,014

1,387,078.33

JOHNHOLT

1.2

56,396

64,291.44

ZENITHBANK

25.16

25.2

0.04

7,238,671

182,706,124.90

LAWUNION

0.5

642,500

321,430.00

LEARNAFRCA

1.65

19,428

32,284.80

LINKASSURE

0.5

1,500

750

LIVESTOCK

3.1

3.05

-0.05

2,526,441

7,863,049.00

MANDRID

5.35

200

1,120.00

MANSARD

2.52

70,608

177,470.08

MAYBAKER

1.8

1.71

-0.09

317,600

543,896.00

MBENEFIT

0.54

1,559,707

842,293.78

TOP 10 GAINERS Stock NSEASI NSEINDUSTR NSECNSMRGDS NESTLE TO TA L MOBIL NSE50 NSE30 NSELOTUSISLM NB

Close 43030.3 2770.98 1059.71 1124.9 179.6 147.15 2116.03 1958.32 2851.49 176.8

TOP TOP 10 10 LOSERS GAINERS Gain

Stock

Loss

58.71 15.74 13.61 12.9 8.55 7 6.39 6.26 5.46 4.58

NEWGOLD NSEOILGAS JBERGER OANDO NSEINS DANGCEM ASHAKACEM NNFM CAP UPDCREIT

2033 478.13 64.28 26.57 148.2 240 33.02 18.77 40.1 9.95

-23 -3.25 -2.72 -1.38 -1.23 -0.99 -0.98 -0.98 -0.85 -0.52

FOR about four weeks now, the Edo Sate House of Assembly has been embroiled in crisis which has attracted the concern of citizens within and outside the state. Before the crisis, Edo State House of Assembly was one of the most peaceful state Houses of Assembly in the country. WHILST many observers and commentators believe the crisis was an internal affair of the twenty-four elected members of the House, which has also informed their commentaries, what appears incontrovertible as at the moment is that external forces, acting behind the scene are responsible for the impasse. Regrettably, ordinary citizens of Edo State whom the House was established by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to make laws for and oversight the activities of the Executive arm of government are the ones bearing the pains occasioned by the crisis. WE condemn all those who are responsible for fueling the crisis behind the scene and urge them to desist forthwith because posterity will not forgive them if the crisis degenerates beyond what Edo people have witnessed. THERE are allegations of some of the external forces setting aside slush fund of between N50million-N70million to sway Assembly members from one political party to the other so as to swell their numbers to wreak further havoc on the state. This is condemnable and we urge all those who have made this allegation to document them properly and press court charges against all those involved in this criminality without any further delay. ALSO, all those who submit themselves to be used to destabilise the House should know that they have a date with history as their roles today would be recalled in no distant future. Such members of the House must remember that they are carrying the mandate of every citizen of their constituency irrespective of

THE NIGERIAN

Parliamentary Peace In Edo their political affiliation. Those involved should equally know that they have families and offsprings who they equally represent and that in fullness of time, someone, somewhere someday will remind them of their roles. BEYOND the agent provocateurs, we believe that the Edo State House of Assembly is an independent arm of government which is guided by its own rules and the laws of the land. Principal Officers of the House were selected from among themselves using the instruments of the House. We expect that as Hounourable members, they should all submit themselves to the rules of the House and their oath of office. WE believe absolutely in the rule of law and we are aware that some court judgments have been given in respect of the feud and we are astonished and alarmed that some supposedly Honourable members flagrantly disobeyed court orders. This in our view does not only constitute a threat to democracy but one capable of instigating anarchy in the land. DEMOCRACY flourshes on the rule of law and no nation has ever attained democratic greatness without an efficient and effective justice system which allows for the thriving of the rule of law. We therefore wish to call on all the members of the Edo State House of Assembly who have been duly served court notices or judgments to obey such judgments without any further delay. WHILE we appreciate the role of the Edo State Police Command and other security agencies

for maintaining peace and preventing the conflict from degenerating into blood bath, we wish to call on the Nigeria Police Force, as the lead enforcer of court pronouncements to ensure that all court judgments given in respect to the Edo House of Assembly members are fully complied with. It is the constitutional responsibility of the police to ensure that this happens, and they owe Edo people the duty of enforcing the court judgments, no matter their numbers and those involved. ABOVE all, the neutrality of the police is an imperative. The Nigeria police is not only expected to be neutral in the impasse, they have to be seen by all to enforce law and order. By the enabling Police Act, partisanship of any sort is forbidden and the police must ensure complete neutrality in this matter. IN situations like this, the role of eminent citizens such as traditional rulers is very important in cautioning their subjects to maintain peace. It is against this backdrop that we appreciate the fatherly disposition of the Benin Monarch, Omo Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oba Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa for hosting the feuding lawmakers to a peace talk in his palace. We recall that the Oba pointedly told the lawmakers that he does not want crisis in the state and urged the parties to resolve the matter amongst themselves. THE intervention of the Oba must not go unheeded. The Oba of Benin represents the father of all Edo people both at home and in Diaspora. We wish to call on the lawmakers to hearken to the kind advice of our revered monarch and bring an end to the dispute without any further delay. WE also urge other well meaning Edo sons and daughters to wade into the matter and call all external forces to the dispute to order in the overall interest of Edo State. It is our firm conviction that we have what it takes to bring normalcy to the House once and for all, so that in the end, there would be no victor, no vanquished.

Issues VICE President Spiro T. Agnew had his finger on the button, and a choir was singing about peace on earth. A small audience of townspeople and tourists had assembled on the Ellipse, the tree- ringed park between the White House and the Washington Monument, for the lighting of the national Christmas tree, part of a pseudo-religious promotion Washington businessmen call the Pageant of Peace. On the other side of the world, Russia, China, and the United States had been maneuvering dangerously near the edge of world war. They had started choosing sides after the Indian army crossed into East Pakistan. The Chinese, who had been secretly sending supplies over the Himalayas to aid Pakistan, had troops poised to cross into India. The White House, which had put out misinformation about U.S. interests and intentions in the war, had dispatched a naval task force into the Bay of Bengal. Top Soviet officials, meanwhile, assured Indian leaders that Chinese intervention would be offset by a Russian attack on China and that any moves by the American task force would be opposed by the Russian fleet. In one bitter confrontation a Russian officer warned his Chinese counterpart of the power of Russia’s missiles. Using sophisticated electronic equipment as well as oldfashioned bribes, U.S. intelligence had gathered all these facts and had for warded them to Washington. Rather than being told of the dangers, Congress and the press were assured that America was following a policy of strict neutrality. president Nixon personally advised the top leaders of the Senate and House that his only interest was to bring peace. “We are neutral,” he said to them. “We are not taking sides.” Dr. Henry Kissinger, Nixon’s foreign policy adviser, insisted to reporters that rumors of a U.S. bias against India were “inaccurate.” In secret, however, both Nixon and Kissinger were issuing instructions that could hardly be called neutral. Even before the shooting started between India and Pakistan, the President summoned representatives of the Washington Special Action Group into his office and directed them to seek ways to aid Pakistan. This high-powered group— called WSAG inside the White House—is the crisismanagement team of the National Security Council. It is composed of representatives from the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the departments of State and Defense, and the Central Intelligence Agency. Nixon and Kissinger created WSAG in 1969, when an American reconnaissance plane was shot down over North Korea, and they continued to use it in subsequent emergencies. WSAG met frequently on the India-Pakistan crisis, and Kissinger, its chairman, constantly reminded the group of Nixon’s determination to “tilt” in Pakistan’s favor. He castigated diplomats who hesitated to violate the neutrality the United States had pro claimed and admonished WSAG’s members to follow the President’s wishes. Kissinger’s anti-India zeal troubled some subordinates.

“Some times Kissinger acted like a wild man,” a source on Kissinger’s staff told me. “His animus toward India seemed irrational.” My sources kept me informed as the developments became more ominous. Every President is entitled to secrecy in matters of national security, but this privilege does not allow him to deliberately deceive the American people. When I was persuaded that America was being misled, I asked my sources for the documentary evidence that would also convince the public. I arranged to meet my sources in crowded places where the secret papers, in brown Manila envelopes, could be passed quickly and inconspicuously. My sources turned over a dozen key documents. They were so explosive that I had to be sure they were not taken out of context. I pressed for more documentation, until I wound up with hundreds of supporting documents. With deepening concern, I studied the secret suggestions to send a U.S. task force into the combat zone. The sparks from a Russian— American naval confrontation in the Bay of Bengal, it seemed, could set off a nuclear powder keg. One of my sources alerted me, by a prearranged telephone signal, to meet me at a discount drug store two blocks from the White House. He was anxious as he pretended to be picking over Christmas items at a drugstore counter next to me. The President had approved the plan to send a powerful flotilla into the Bay of Bengal, he whispered tersely. I walked out of the drugstore and wrote my first column on the secret American involvement. To protect sources, I quoted cautiously from the secret documents at first. But the reaction inside the White House over these limited leaks was as angry as if I had quoted extensively from the documents. When Kissinger tried to dismiss my stories by saying he had been quoted out of context, I decided to provide the context. I still held back most of the papers, however, out of concern over legitimate security. I have now reviewed these unpublished papers for additional details that can now be revealed, to show how the Nixon Administration’s foreign policy was conceived and executed and how the public was misled. Briefly, this was the background. Nixon sought to correct an error of his early political career when he was a staunch friend of Chiang Kaishek and an implacable foe of Communist China. His antiCommunist clamoring had helped to prevent the reconciliation that Mao-Tse-tung and Chou En-lai had sought with the United States, and the resulting enmity between China and America was a factor in precipitating two costly U.S. wars on the Asian continent. A quarter of a century too late, Nixon decided the Chinese-American hostility had been a ghastly mistake, and he set out to restore good relations with Peking. This worthy quest led him into a close relationship with Pakistan’s military dictator, Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan, who helped to open the doors in Peking. A warm friendship developed between the two

The Ingredients Of Violence By JACK ANDERSON

leaders. Nixon was more than a little eager, too, to show common cause with China’s ally on the Indian subcontinent. His decision to aid Pakistan was a national tragedy, an abrogation of America’s historic commitment to champion democracy throughout the world. The anti-India policy, moreover, was pre meditated. As early as August 1971, four months before the out break of the war, Nixon told his foreign policy planners that he intended to back Yahya in his conflict with India. Catastrophe and war and death have always been commonplace in Bengal, a piece of earth abused by man and nature. For centuries Hindus and Moslems have fought over the rights to the rich alluvial

soil. Perhaps the Bengalis’ war for freedom was inevitable. The seventy-five million people of Bengal—a land about as large as Louisiana, and with a somewhat similar river delta—were estranged by distance as well as culture and language from the government in the new capital of Islamabad. Only a poet could have conceived of a political union between two such different bits of geography, separated in the middle by more than a thousand miles of the Indian subcontinent. The poet’s name was Mohammad lqbal. In 1930 he proposed a Moslem state independent of the domination of India’s Hindus. Even in the days when Great Britain’s colonial government siphoned off the wealth of India, the Hindu majority fared measurably better than the Moslem minority. The word “Pakistan” itself was an invention, an acronym for four of India’s Moslem regions— Punjab, Afghan, Kashmir and Sind. It was coined by Moslem students in England in 1935. It was 1947 before the name had a place. With Indian independence, the Moslems voted for a separate state, and East and West Pakistan became a single nation. In the migration that followed, Moslems and Hindus clashed and hundreds of thousands were killed. The Bengalis in East Pakistan—more

than half the nation’s population—got short shrift from the beginning. Ignored in the letters spelling their country’s name, they were also paid little heed in the processes of the new government. Pakistan’s economy was ruled by the “22 Families,” an oligarchy based in the west, who lived in the style of the British viceroys while most Pakistanis went hungry. Political power, too, was centered in the west, with the capital first in Karachi, then temporarily in Rawalpindi as a new capital was rising in Islamabad. While India was fashioning the world’s largest democracy, Pakistan fell prey to dictatorship. The Bengalis, however, did play a part in the life of the new

gave Dacca some appearance of a modern city, and the fishing port of Chittagong was transformed into a harbor for seagoing ships handling the jute trade, most of East Pakistan saw little progress. Only one of five East Pakistanis ever learned to read. For most, life was labor, and death came early. The rains that enriched the fields also supported an ideal environment for cholera, smallpox, tuberculosis, and malaria. When the rains became violent, the floods brought more death. In 1966 a cyclone hit Cox’s Bazar, a largely Buddhist town at East Pakistan’s southeastern tip, and killed ten thousand. The disaster was regarded almost as a routine occurrence. In November 1970, the counterclockwise winds of another cycle swirled over the delta at the mouth of the

nation. On 15 percent of the nation’s land they produced more than half its foreign currency. Most of Bengal is a flat, almost marshy plain, bedeviled by oppressive humidity, monsoon rains, and cyclones. From June to October the clouds that move in from the Bay of Bengal build up into towering masses when they encounter the mountains on the east. With tiresome regularity the clouds give vent to pelting rains. For nearly half the year much of Bengal is under water. It is a fertile place. The human birth rate is astonishing, and young and old work in the fields to bring forth other life. Eighty percent of the world’s jute, a golden-flowered plant that provides the fiber for burlap and rope, is grown in Bengal. Even after twenty- four years of independence, Pakistan had managed to do little toward constructing an industry to process the jute, but the export of the fiber and other Bengal products brought Pakistan needed cash. Little of the money found its way back into the Bengal economy. While the government built its gleaming new capital at Islamabad, and the 22 Families aped the British with their fancy prep schools, glittering parties, and exclusive clubs, life in East Pakistan was harsh and oppressive. Although commerce

Ganges River, killing more than two hundred and fifty thousand people. The survivors were also threatened. The rice crop, almost ready for harvest, had been ruined. Even in a land inured to catastrophe, famine was a horror beyond endurance. Grief turned to anger, and anger to action. As peasants dug the corpses from the slime, they found their government only vaguely interested in helping them. In Islamabad, Yahya Khan, who ruled as President by virtue of the army’s power, said there was not enough money in the nation’s treasury to feed the Bengalis and help them rebuild. There were sufficient funds, however, for the government to continue construction of the palatial new buildings in the beautiful green valley of Islamabad. In December 1970 Pakistanis went to the polls in the first free election for the National Assembly in the nation’s history. With remarkable unanimity, the Bengalis cast their ballots for the Awami League, headed by the charismatic Sheikh Mujibur Rah man. Mujib’s party won all but two of East Pakistan’s 169 seats, and gained control of the new national parliament. In West Pakistan, the leaders of the 22 Families were stunned. Their strangle hold on the nation was threatened for the first time

by the new reform party, suddenly the largest of the nation’s twenty political parties. Their enormous wealth threatened, the oligarchs huddled with Yahya, and in March 1971 he announced the postponement of parliament’s opening. The Bengalis are a gentle but emotional people. Their riots had been a bane to the British and an annoyance to the Pakistanis. So again the angry Bengalis took to the streets, demanding the seating of a government that would, at last, be responsive. While the Bengalis have always been peasants, the taller, lighter- skinned Punjabis of the west were warriors for the British East India Company and, liter, the British army. With independence, they assumed control of the Pakistani army. On March 25, Punjab troops quickly and ruthlessly put down the uprising, shooting wildly, shelling homes, attacking student dormitories. On orders from Islamabad, they arrested Mujibur Rahman and shipped him to a prison in West Pakistan. Other Awami League members were arrested or killed. The repression changed nothing. Young Bengalis armed them selves and fought back. The army then began a rampage of genocide seldom equaled in history. A million, perhaps two million no one will ever know for sure—Bengalis were killed. Tens of thousands, possibly hundreds of thousands, of women and young girls were raped. Arson and pillage became the army’s way of life. Defenseless refugees swarmed into India. “The United States did not support or condone this military action,” President Nixon said in his State of the World report to Congress on February 9, 1972. That is only partially true. The fact is that the United States did nothing to halt it, and dealt sternly. with Foreign Service officers who sought to bring attention to the conditions in Bengal. When the slaughter of the Bengalis began, Archer K. Blood, then U.S. consul general in Dacca, the capital of East Pakistan, sent details to U.S. Ambassador Joseph Farland in lslamabad and to the State Department in Washington. lie also forwarded a petition signed by most of his subordinates on the consulate staff, protesting America’s apparent indifference. Some members of the Dacca mission who had signed the petition were recalled. Wives of American diplomats, evacuated from Dacca to Islamabad as the terror increased, were told they only imagined the horrors they had witnessed and were offered tranquilizers. Blood was summoned to Washington in June 1971, but planned to return to Dacca for the remaining eighteen months of his tour of duty. At the State Department he was told he was an alarmist, and was given a desk in the personnel office. Despite his humiliation, he was admired by many other Foreign Service officers who were aware of his courage and honesty in the face of top-level deception.

Ajuwaya IT is a known fact that the NYSC scheme is an orientation program that has helped in educating an average Nigerian youth, both at home or in Diaspora. Nigeria is our home, experiences are being learnt through the NYSC scheme, knowledge is also shared during the course of serving the nation, and all these unique features obtained will eventually lead to the development of the country and at the same time, continue to unify or unite its citizen against any form of the art. The National Youth Service Corps Year comprises of four (4) main segments in which every Corps Member must satisfactorily participate before he/she is qualified to be issued a certificate of National Service. The service year therefore comprises of: · Orientation Courses · Primary Assignment · Community Development Service · Winding – Up/Passing –out ORIENTATION COURSE NYSC orientation course is one of the life experiences every Nigerian graduate must observe. A National Youth Service Corps year starts with a 3 weeks orientation course and it is compulsory for all Nigeria graduates mobilized for national service. The course lasts for three (3) weeks and is designed to achieve the following objectives: · To give Corps Members a better understanding of the objectives of the NYSC Scheme and enable them internalize its ideals. · To imbibe them with the Spirit of collective responsibility. · To acquaint members with their environment in their political, cultural, social and economic setting. · To prepare Corps members for their particular roles in the Scheme. · To inculcate in the Corps members the spirit of national consciousness as a basic ingredient in nation building. To instill discipline in the youths. · To give Corps members adequate physical and mental training. · To equip them with practical social and leadership skills that will enable them meet the challenges of the service year ahead. To achieve the above objectives the orientation course opens with a swearing –in/opening ceremony presided over by the executive Governor of the State/FCT Minister. The oath of Allegiance and the National Pledge are administered by the Chief Judge of the State/FCT. The orientation course content involves physical training, drills, lectures on the people and tradition of the host State, professional lectures for Corps health personnel’s, lawyers, teachers and Skill acquisition training e.t.c. Corps members participate in social activities designed to create opportunities for them to interact. They participate in dance and drama competitions, Miss NYSC and Mr Macho. They also participate in inter platoon competitions on football, volleyball, table tennis, cooking and sanitation. Corps members are also trained on Man ‘O’ War activities leading to competitions on inter platoon drills and tug of war. PRIMARY ASSIGNMENT At the end of the orientation, Corps members are posted to their places of primary assignment. While the NYSC

Corps Members in a passing out parade

Main Segments Of By LATEEFAT O. MOSHOOD

Management takes into consideration the areas of specialization of Corps members carrying out the posting exercise, emphasis is placed in rural posting in the areas of Agriculture, Health, Education and Infrastructure. It is expected that Corps members should accept their posting and be agents of change contributing towards the development of their host communities. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES The Community Development Service (CDS) is aimed at harnessing the skills, creativity and innovativeness of Corps members. Corps members are expected to identify the needs of their host communities and mobilize members of their host communities to embark on the projects. Through this programme, many Corps members were able to contribute highly to the development of the

“Through this programme, many Corps members were able to contribute highly to the development of the nation. Some construct bridges, health care centers, classroom blocks, market stalls, culverts etc. they had also carried out projects like HIV sensitization, adult literacy campaign, extra-moral classes for students, road safety campaign etc.”

NYSC Year

nation. Some construct bridges, health care centers, classroom blocks, market stalls, culverts etc. they had also carried out projects like HIV sensitization, adult literacy campaign, extra-moral classes for students, road safety campaign etc. Corps members participate actively in the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) through the War Against Poverty (WAP) programme of the scheme. WINDING –UP/PASSING-OUT Passing out Parade is the completion of youth service by corps members. At the end of the service year (usually at the 12th month) corps members are gathered in their respective zones for assessment of the service year and de briefing. It is the period when Corps members present their final clearance letters from their employers and submit same to their Zonal/Local Government Inspectors. Parade rehearsals are conducted in readiness for the passing-out ceremony which is usually presided over by the Executive Governor of the State. During the ceremony, those with outstanding performance during the service year are given State Honours/Award. For a Corps member to merit an award, he/she must be outstanding in the orientation course, primary assignment, community development service and winding –up exercise.

Child Health And You

Female Genital Mutilation

WHAT is female genital mutilation? In dealing with this topic, we have to first look at the dictionary meaning of the term “Female Genital and Mutilation”. Who is a female: A female may be a plant or animal that can produce fruits or lay eggs or give birth to babies/offspring’s. Genital: Is connected with the outer sexual organs of a person or an animal. Mutilation: To damage somebody’s body very severely, especially by cutting or tearing off part of it. From the definitions above, we now understand the above concepts. Female genital mutilation (FGM); also known as female genital cutting or female circumcision, is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genital, or other injury to the female genital organs for nonmedical reasons”. FGM is typically carried out on girls from a few days old to puberty. It may take place in a hospital, but is usually performed, without anaesthesia, by a traditional circumciser using a knife, razor, or scissors. The practice is carried out by some communities who believe it reduces a woman’s libido (sexual desire). PREVALENCE AND ATTEMPTS TO END THE PRACTICE: According to WHO, 100140 million women and girls are living with FGM, and this includes 92 million girls over the age of 10 in Africa. The practice persists in 28 African countries, as well as in Arabian Peninsula. Nicholas Birch of the Chiristain Science monitor claims there is circumstantial evidence for its existence in Syria, western iran, and southern Turkey. It is also practiced in Indonesia but largely symbolically by pricking the clitoral hood until it bleeds. Several countries have enacted legislation against it, including Burkina Faso, Central Africa Republic, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Togo and Uganda. President Daniel moi of Kenya issued a decree against it in December 2007. In Mauritania, where almost all girls in minority communities undergo FGM, 34 Islamic scholars signed a fatwa in January 2010 banning the practice. In Egypt, the health ministry banned FGM in 2007 despite pressure from some (though not all) Islamic group. Two incidents in particular forced the government’s hand. A 10-

year-old girl was photographed undergoing FGM in barber’s shop in Cario, Egypt in 1995 and the images were broadcast by CNN; this triggered a ban on the practice everywhere except in hospitals. Then, in 2007, a 12 year old Badour shaker died of an overdose of anaesthesia used during an FGM procedure for which her mother had paid a physician in an illegal clinic the equivalent of S9.00. The AlAzhar supreme council of Islamic research, the highest religious authority in Egypt, issued a statement that FGM had no basis in core Islamic law, and this enabled the government to outlaw it entirely. The TWO has offered four classification of FGM. The three major types are: Type I: removal of the clitoral hood, almost invariable accompanied by the removal of the clitoris (a small sensitive organ just above the opening of a woman’s vagina which becomes larger when she is sexually excited) itself (clitordectomy); Type II: removal of the clitoris and inner labia (the four folds of the skin at the entrance to a woman’s virgina) and Type III (infibulation): removal of all parts of the inner and out labia, and usually the clitoris, and the fusion of the wound, leaving a small hole for the passage of urine and menstrual blood-the fused wound is opened for intercourse and childbirth. Forty out of 85.0% of women undergo FGM experience types I and II and 15 percent undergo type III. These are the most common procedure in several countries including Sudan, Somalia and Djibouti. Several miscellaneous acts are categorized as Type IV. These range from a symbolic pricking or piercing of the clitoris or cutting into the vagina to widen it (gishiri cutting), and introducing corrosive substances to tighten it. Opposition to FGM focuses on human rights violations, lack of informed consent, and health risks, which include fatal hemorrhaging epidermoid cyst, recurrent urinary and vaginal infections, chronic pain and obstetrical complications which can also lead to excess bleeding. Since 1979, there have been concerted efforts by international bodies to end the practice such as sponsorship by the United Nations on an international day of zero tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation 6th February since 2003. Sylvia Tamate, a

Ugandan scholar writes that there is a large body of research and activism in Africa women, and they reject the idea that FGM is nothing but a barbaric rejection of modernity. Tamate suggested that there are cultural and political aspects to the practices continuation that make it’s opposition a complex matter. CLASSIFICATION AND H E A L T H CONSEQUENCES: The age at which the

by traditional practitioners without anaesthsia, using unsterile cutting devices such as razors, knives, scissors, cutlass, sharpened rocks, and fingernails, while applying suturing materials such as agaves or acacia thorns. Affluent people in urban settings may have the procedure done in a safer medical environment. FGM has immediate and late complication effects on the individuals. Immediate complications are increased

tract include virginal and pelvic infection, dysmenorrhea, dypareunia and infertility. In some cases, complete obstruction of the virginal results in hematocoplos and hematometra. Other complications include epidermoid that may become infected, neuroma formation typically involving nerves that supply the clitoris, and pelvic pain. FGM may complicate pregnancy and place women at higher risk of obstetrical problems (birth difficulties), which are more common with the more extensive FGM procedures. Thus, with women who have developed vasicovaginal or rectovaginal

procedure is performed varies. Comfort Momoh, a specialist midwife in England, writes that in Ethiopia the Falashas perform it when the child is a few days old, the Amhara on the eight day of birth, while the Adere and Oromo choose to perform at four years while other communities may wait until adulthood. Others may still wait till a lady is ripe for marriage or just after the first pregnancy. The procedure may be carried out on one girl alone, or a group of girls at the same time. It is generally performed by a traditional circumciser, usually an older woman known as garden without anaesthesia or sterile equipment, though richer families may pay instead for the services of a nurse, midwife, or doctor using a local anaesthesia. It may also be performed by the mother or grandmother, in some societies such as, Nigeria and Egypt, by the local male barber. IMMEDIATE AND LATE COMPLICATIONS: FGM is typically carried out

when FGM is performed in traditional ways, and without access to medical source. The procedure complications include acute urinary retention, urinary tract infection; and hepatitis and HIV from re-use of instruments. According to Lewnes’ UNICEF report, it is unknown how many girls and woman die from the procedure because “few records are kept”. Fatalities caused by FGM “are rarely reported as such, Momoh says that the short term mortality rate is around 10 percent, due to complications such as infection, haemorrhage, and hypovolemic shock. A film shot in Lunsar, Sierra Leone, by Mariana van Zeller in 2007 discusses how girls who bleed excessively are regarded as witches. Late complications may vary depending on the type of FGM performed. The formation of scars and keloids can lead to strictures, obstruction of fistula formation of the urinary tract and bladder with infections and incontinence. Genital

fistulae, holes allow urine and feaces to sip into the virgina making it difficult to obtain clear urine. In more serious conditions, cervical evaluation during labour may be impeded and labour prolonged. Third degree laceration, anal sphincter damage, and emergency caesarean section are more common in FGM women than in controls. Neonatal mortality is increased in women with FGM. The WHO estimated that an additional 10-20 babies die per 1,000 deliveries as a result of FGM; the estimate was based on a 2006 study conducted on 28, 393 women attending delivery wards at 28 obsteric centres in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sudan. In those settings, all types of FGM were found to pose an increased risk of death to their babies. Psychological trauma related to cultural context: Damage may occur to women who undergo FGM particularly when they are moving outside their

By NOSA OJO

traditional circles and are confronted with a view that mutilation is not the norm. Women with FGM typically report sexual dysfunction and dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse), nevertheless several researchers have written that FGM does not necessarily destroy sexual desire in women. Elizabeth Heger Boyle reported several studies during the 1980’s and 1990’s where the women said they were able argued that FGM is related to the high incidence of AIDS in some parts of Africa. CONCLUSION: Putting an end to the practice of FGM has several dimensions that need to be addressed. There is a need for enabling environment at the political and legislative level. The health sector must be fully involved in the prevention of FGM as there is a risk of increased medicalisation of the Practice. Teachers and the education sector can be strong allies in activities that promote awareness and empowerment of children and youth. The culture sector (media, entertainment) is crucial in disseminating information and promoting an open dialogue on a sensitive issue like FGM. In many developing countries those sectors of government are suffering from a lack of resources; financial resources, human resources and technical expertise. Deveploment cooperation can play an important role in supporting the in-house capacity at government can play an important role in supporting the in-house capacity at which government level. In all approaches, whether through support to the government or to civil society activities, specific action should be taken to engage women and girls from FGM communities to promote their empowerment, their ability to claim their rights as well as their decision making position in relation to their community and to the various policy structures that affect their lives. Their active participation should the core of all abandonment strategies. NOSA OJO Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria ***************** ‘CHILD HEALTH AND YOU’, a Weekly Thursday Feature, is a collaborative initiative between the Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, and the Bendel Newspapers Company Limited (BNCL), Benin City. Comments on this page should be forwarded to The Editor, Observer newspaper or Director, Institute of Child Health University

Media Contemporary Issues In Election Reporting: THE media and democracy are intrinsically linked - but in societies that are evolving from authoritarian systems into democratic ones, this relationship can be problematic. This is particularly true at election times, when politicians often fail to distinguish between opponents of the government and ‘enemies of the state’. Thus a wide variety of pressures can, and are, applied to journalists during elections. These can make free and fair reporting difficult, and sometimes almost impossible. Pressure from Politicians and their Supporters Journalists efforts to report elections fairly can be compromised by the efforts of politicians and their supporters to influence what is reported. Dealing with politicians’ attempts to gain favourable media coverage has been covered at length earlier in this chapter - that sort of pressure is, in general, legitimate. However, politicians and their supporters have also been known to use less legitimate methods as well. All politicians want to win the elections they are fighting - otherwise what’s the point? But, sometimes they allow their enthusiasm for victory to outweigh their commitment to the democratic system. They may bring all sorts of pressures to bear on editors and owners of media organisations, in order to maximize the positive coverage and minimise the negative. These pressures can include: • outright physical intimidation • legal threats • withdrawing advertising and • refusing cooperation in a whole range of other ways. In turn, this can Lead owners and editors of radio stations to pressurize journalists. In addition, journalists face direct pressure from politicians, their advisers and supporters. This pressure can be of two sorts: positive inducements to provide good coverage, which include offering to provide food, transport,

presents and cash; and negative pressure, including threats, harassment and physical violence. Physical attacks can also come from other sources, including party activists, mobs, police and the military. Obstruction by Officials Journalists can find their ability to cover elections impeded by election officials. These officials, whose function is to ensure that the ballot is carried out freely and fairly, should see the media as key partners in the exercise of their duties. Alas, this is not always the case and election officials, particularly those coming from a civil service background, often see the media as a necessary evil to be avoided, rather than an importantally in the democratic process. Achieving Balance - Being Fair Even when journalists are not being intimidated or obstructed, achieving balance during an election campaign can be problematic. This can be due to a number of factors. First, there is the reporters own personal political bias. Journalists are, or should be, interested in the world around them. Hence, most of them have their own political views. It is important that a journalist recognises what these are, and even discusses them openly with colleagues. By doing this he or she can then see, and check, that their reporting is not being influenced by their own views. Another cause of Lack of balance comes about because some politicians and parties are better at communicating with the media than others. Hence, they can get more coverage. Thus it is important that journalists try and make contact with all politicians and parties - especially those that are media-shy. Finally, there is the difficult question of balancing coverage between those candidates and parties that have a serious chance of gaining power and those who are running without any real hope of winning. These are difficult decisions that need to be discussed

“Journalists efforts to report elections fairly can be compromised by the efforts of politicians and their supporters to influence what is reported.”

with colleagues and editors, and are frequently subject to rules about how the media should cover elections (see Section 2). Complaints of Lack of balanced coverage by the media, particularly publicly owned media, were rife in the general elections of 2003 and 2007. In fact, on January 28, 2003, ahead of the April elections that year, newly registered political parties protested in Abuja claiming that there was an alleged blackout

p e L r p p p P a a

of their activities by the Federal Government controlled radio and television stations. They also complained of exorbitant fees charged by the FRCN and NTA to cover their conventions. However, this lack of balance was not peculiar to the media controlled by the Federal Government or the PDP-controlled governments alone, but was also evident in virtually all, the states notwithstanding which party was in control. As a rule, opposition candidates found it very difficult to gain coverage on any state media, whilst at the same time those same media virtually continuously sang the praises of the incumbent governors around the clock. A public media monitoring exercise conducted by Media Rights Agenda in 2007 in the nine weeks running up to May 31, 2007, showed that out of the 50 registered political

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Media

chieving Balance, Being Fair

parties, only 22 were reported at all during the entire period on Radio Nigeria, monitored in Lagos. Of the 22, 13 of the parties were reported just once each during the entire period. A majority of the political parties (28 parties or 56 per cent of all the registered political parties were not mentioned at all. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was reported a total of 66 times, while its closest rival, the advantage of this. It is important to recognise

that they are trying to “buy” favorable coverage. Don’t let this happen. Always seek to maintain the highest personal and professional ethics and standards. John Lawrence, training editor of The Nation in Kenya has come up with these ten useful tips for reporting elections: 1. Report events exactly as they happen . and not as you would Like them to happen. 2. Give equal prominence to all the major candidates. This means attending an equal number of candidates meetings. 3. Be careful not to colour your reports with inflammatory Language. 4. Report what candidates say and not what interested parties say candidates said. 5. Be careful not to be seen to be taking sides in political arguments. 6. Do not (in any circumstances whatsoever)

“A public media monitoring exercise conducted by Media Rights Agenda in 2007 in the nine weeks running up to May 31, 2007, showed that out of the 50 registered political parties, only 22 were reported at all during the entire period on Radio Nigeria, monitored in Lagos. Of the 22, 13 of the parties were reported just once each during the entire period.” accept any inducement from a candidate or his/ her supporters. Do not even take a ride in a politicians car. 7. Do not promise any politician (or anyone else for that matter) that a report or story will appear in the paper. 8. Report what you see without exaggeration. 9. Do not use extravagant language in describing crowd scenes. 10. Exercise fair play. If a candidate makes an accusation against his opponent, ask that opponent for a comment. DETECTING ELECTION IRREGULARITIES The International Federation of Journalists identifies the degree of fairness and transparency as one of the major issues in any election. Even when the poll is being monitored by representatives of political parties, local NGOs or international observation teams, journalists should attempt to determine for themselves the degree to which any polling problems are affecting the quality of the electoral process. The guidelines produced for election workers and monitors by the American National Democratic Institute (NDI), are a useful monitoring tool for journalists. NDI advises its teams to try to observe, research and record the severity, frequency and pattern of any of the following issues with an assessment of the number of voters influenced. • ‘Unfair attempts to influence voters or

election officials through bribes, employment promises, threats, intimidation, systematic disruption of the election process, unbalanced media access; • “Disenfranchisement of voters through: unreasonably restricting the registration process, unreasonably restricting candidate eligibility, failing to properly list registered voters, failing to distribute voter identification cards, requiring unreasonable supplemental voter identification, systematic complication of the election process, incomplete distribution of election materials; • “Fraud, such as stealing ballots, stuffing ballots, destroying ballots, misreading, miscounting, and providing misleading reports to the media, voting twice, trying to remove indelible ink; • “Logistical problems, including insufficient number of ballots, ballots missing for certain parties, insufficient number of envelopes, ink that washes off, inadequate secrecy of the vote, missing officials, missing voter registry, no artificial lights; and • “Civic education: voters do not seem to have a reasonable understanding of their right to freely choose a candidate or how to express their choice, and administrators do not have a reasonable understanding of their duties and how to execute them.” Courtesy: IPC

“Even when journalists are not being intimidated or obstructed, achieving balance during an election campaign can be problematic. This can be due to a number of factors.”

Environment AS we stand at a pedestrian crossing or walk by a bridge, and a vehicle passes by, letting out a cloud of smoke in our face, our immediate reaction is to fan it away with our hands. We are also quick to give the driver of the vehicle a stare and even make a comment about how unclean and unsafe the air in the atmosphere around us is. That would be the air outdoors which is polluted every moment due to poisonous emissions from fuels of cars, buses and trucks. But have we ever paused to think about how safe is the air which we breathe inside enclosed spaces like our workplaces, homes, restaurants/pubs, schools, campus hostels and public transport? Indoor air pollution most commonly includes tobacco smoke and smoke from the combustion of solid fuels. Apart from these, other indoor air pollutants could be cooking oil smoke, kerosene smoke, incense smoke, mosquito coil smoke and pesticides. TOBACCO SMOKE Do we see no harm in smoking in front of our two year old child? Does the smoke exhaled by the passenger in the taxi have no effect on the taxi driver? How bad can that be? It’s just a bit of smoke. Exposure to second hand smoke (SHS) causes a high burden of disease as does the direct use of tobacco. This burden is higher in low-income countries and affects women and children most of all. The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) rightly avers that there is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke. Worldwide, passive smoking or second hand smoke causes about 603,000 premature deaths in nonsmokers every year. Women are at least 50% more likely to be exposed to SHS than men. While adults suffer from lung cancer, heart diseases and chronic respiratory diseases, children suffer from asthma, other respiratory infections and sudden infant death syndrome as a result of this totally avoidable exposure. Some countries have introduced laws forbidding

Addressing Menace Of Air Pollution Breathe In And Out: smoking in public areas. But what really matters is how well these laws are followed. Strong antismoking legislations have to be backed by equally strong implementation, which alas does not happen often. Surely, many of us have had our building corridor smell of smoke that is coming from the neighbour’s flat. Many of us must have also enjoyed the sweet odour of the flavoured sheesha/ hookah from the table next to ours in an outdoor restaurant. But then if we have smelt it, we have inhaled it. How many of us smoke in our home verandah and then take our 3 year old in our arms the very next minute? In an online survey held recently, 26.7% of the respondents said that they smoked in enclosed public areas where smoking wasn’t banned. 9.68% said they smoked in the car, taxi or auto rickshaw. About 10% smoked at their workplace and inside the house. While 57.14% said they would move away from other people who were not smoking, 17.86% said they would only do that if the others objected. According to Kathryn Seymour, Communications Officer at International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) who spoke to Citizen News Service – CNS: “Every person has a right to breathe clean air that is not contaminated by carcinogens and other harmful substances. Smoke free indoor public places are one of the key measures that can be implemented to protect this right. Under the smoke free policy, bans on smoking should be implemented in all indoor and crowded outdoor areas, as well as campus vehicles. Designated smoking rooms within these areas should not be allowed because there is no truly efficient means of containing or extracting tobacco smoke. In order to improve compliance, it is strongly recommended that

By CAROLYN KAVITA TAURO

managers of facilities consider offering cessation support to staff who smoke or referring them to a separate cessation service. Banning the sale of tobacco products and banning tobacco advertising will also

87.2 % of rural families and 33.6% of urban families in India use pollution creating cooking fuels. However, there has been a migration toward the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) especially in the urban areas

kerosene in the past few years, “It used to be very difficult for us when we used cow dung to cook our food. The house was always full of smoke and we were constantly coughing. Now that we have the LPG cylinders our visits to the doctors have decreased,

help with compliance.” SOLID FUELS AND BIOMASS The other most common form of indoor air pollution, especially in low income countries, is the pollution due to the combustion of solid fuels like coal and biomass such as cow dung and firewood. Globally, about 50% of all households and 90% of rural households use solid fuels as the main domestic source of energy. Data from the Indian Census 2011 shows that

in recent years. Most of urban India now uses LPG and Piped Natural Gas (PNG) while rural India still relies on solid fuels and biomass. This is not so much due to a lack of awareness but more due to lack of availability, accessibility and, most importantly, affordability of cleaner fuel options. Sunita (name changed), who lives in a slum in Mumbai, says that most slum dwellers have changed from solid fuels to LPG or

although the cylinders are expensive to buy”. Efforts aimed at the prevention of airborne diseases for children under 5 years of age, will not only improve the general health of our future generation but also reduce the child mortality rate in the country. Along with this, interventions to reduce exposure to indoor air pollution will also help us in the realization of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) — the end to

the requirement of collecting fuel for cooking will help women by decreasing the time burden promoting gender equality and empowerment (Goal 3); it will also result in more time being made available for education and other activities that could help them generate more income to help eradicate poverty (Goal 1); a nation’s progress towards environmental sustainability can also be monitored through the

proportion of the population using solid fuels (Goal 7). Air has been taken for granted far too long. Everyone has a right to breathe in clean and safe air and so every person has the responsibility to provide themselves, their families and their communities this right. Along with legislations that aim to reduce indoor as well as outdoor air pollution, let each one of us do our bit to contribute toward a cleaner and safer environment.

“Air has been taken for granted far too long. Everyone has a right to breathe in clean and safe air and so every person has the responsibility to provide themselves, their families and their communities this right.”

A].

INTRODUCTION: Recall that the logarithm of a number M say, to a certain base x is the power or index or exponent to which such base (in this case x) must be raised to be

Solution: (i). Similarly, consider the index of both sides i.e. 32 = 25 Answer (ii). log1010 = 1 becomes 10 = 101 Answer

Mathematics With Stanley Osobase 08023454887 Osobase2001@yahoo.co.uk

Logarithmic Equation (1)

equal to the number M. (iii). log101000 = 3 becomes 1000 = 103Answer That is if M = xa, then a = logxM. The relations logxM = a 1 a (iv). log = -2 becomes and x = M are equivalent to each 10 100 other. In other words, while M = 1 1 xa is known as the index form, = or 10-2 Answer 2 100 10 the logxM = a is known as the logarithmic form. Example 3 Note: The short form of Convert log/2 1 = 2 to its index logarithm is log. 4 equivalent

B]. APPLICATION EXAMPLES

Example 1 Convert each of the following index forms to their logarithmic forms: (i). 8 = 23 (ii). 100 = 102 Solution: Since the index form is given, we consider the logarithmic by taking the logs of both sides. i.e. log28 = 3 Answer (ii). Taking the logs of both sides, we get: Log10100 = 2 Answer

((

Solution Taking indices, we get: 1 = 1 2 Answer 2 4

(( ((

Example 4 Calculate the value of log2x, if logx4 = 1/2 (NECO, 2005). Solution Taking indices, we get:

To get x, take the squares of both sides to get: x2 = :- x = 1 8

1 64 Answer

Example 6 If 2log3y + log3x2 = 4, then y is (UME, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;93) Solution: Rearranging the LHS, using the log law, 2log3y becomes log3y2. Now log3y2 + log3x2 = 4 or log3(y2x2) = 4 x2y2 = 34 y = 2

34 x2

81 x2 /2 /2 4 = x or x = 4 To get y, take the square roots of both or x = 4 (rearranged) sides to get: 81 81 Take the squares of both sides to get: y2 = = 2 x2 x ( x )2 = (4)2 9 2 :- y = Example 2 :- x = 4 = 16 Answer x Convert the following Drills Example 5 logarithmic forms to their (1). If log 10x = 0.5, find x. Solve the equation log2x2 = -6. equivalent forms Ans = 10 Solution: (i). log232 = 5 (2). Solve for y if 5log(y + 3) = log32 Considering indices, we get: Ans = -1 (ii). log1010 = 1 x2 = 2-6 1 1 or 6 or Until next edition, remain blessed (iii). log101000 = 3 2 64 solving Maths and remember to 1 1 x2 = (iv). Log10 = -2 watch EBSTV, Thur. 4pm! 64 100 1

y2 =

Motoring With OSAGIE AIFUWA 08023412452

FG Denies 70 Percent Duty On Imported Cars

What You Must Know About Engine Oil

ORDINARILY, a good lubricating oil is a high boiling paraffin hydrocarbon The properties usually required include: a. Stability at high temperatures; b. Fluidity at low temperatures; c. Moderate change only in viscosity over a broad temperature range; d. Sufficient adhesiveness to keep it in place under high shear forces. Lubes a graded based on these characteristics and other performance criteria, Two major bodies are reputed for this grading word-wide. They are the American Petroleum Institute which gives the API grades and the Society of Automotive Engineers which provides the SAE grade. Lubes are graded according to the types of engine they are meant to serve. In other words, the more advanced the engine technology, the more advanced the lube formulation. It is imperative’ to use the Oil recommended by the vehicle manufactures. In many cases this will be one of the new ‘synthetic’ oils. The word ‘synthetic’

does not imply that these oils are inferior; the opposite is the case, they are far superior. And despite the tag ‘synthetic’ the base product is natural oil or one of its derivatives. ‘Synthetic’ refers to the fact that it is manipulated chemically by man to make it more suitable to the task at hand. These oil have, far greater resistance. to’ extreme of temperature, or the extremely high pressures generated in a modern high rewing engine and they last longer before they break down. But they don’t last forever. Besides ensuring that, you use the correct oil you should also change it at the’ recommended intervals. Engine oil is specialty and very specifically compounded to do c thin9s and not to do others. If you drive diesel and add a can of oil meant for petrol engines you have added the wrong oil. If your’ car is’ petrol engine, pouring in diesel engine Oil is equally wrong. And a car- keeper too should never use a

non-detergent oil, which means’ non’- engine cleaning oil. The oil container tells you to what specifications’ the oil has been compounded and for what engines the oil is intended. What tells you is the “oil code” you will find it on ‘the top and occasionally on the bottom or body of the can. But in reading the codes you need to ,know the specification alphabet and what each letter ‘or combination of letters means. Oil code beginning with ’C’ are for gasoline engines. Codes beginning with are for diesel engines. Diesel Engine Motor Oil CD:A “severe” duty excellent specification oil, able to withstand the modern

diesel’s high temperature and to protect, against bearing corrosion and combustion deposits. Your good choice in diesel oils.. CC:A “moderate to light” duty diesel. Given the choice between the CD and CC, pick the CD every time. CB: Not a good oil for diesel — engine cars. This one is more commonly used in industrial engines that burn high sulphur fuel and low quality fuels at that. Also, its recommended only for moderate service requirements. CA: A “light duty” diesel engine oil, not recommended for diesel cars. Please note that there are more higher grade of engine oil in the market today, taking care of modern day cars.

FEDERAL Government has denied media report that 70% percent duty has been imposed on imported used cars, pointed out that the approved duty remains 35 percent. Government also explained that those involved in the auto policy programme, including firms assembling cars in the Country and creating jobs would be able to import cars at 35 percent while those putting strain on the foreign reserves with no intention to create job would pay 70 percent duty on imported cars to discourage them from trading. The Minister Trade and Investments, Olusegun Aganga told Auto-Writers in Abuja that the report in the media gave a wrong impression about governments Auto policy. I said, “the article had claimed that the duty on the used cars is now 70 percent

from July 1st, that is incorrect, It is 35 percent. The report also claimed that used cars now coming into the Country would pay duty of 70 percent; that again is incorrect. “For all those in the auto policy programme, all those assembling cars in the automotive policy programme, would be able to import cars to meet the gap between production and the demands in the Country, they would be able to import those cars at 35 percent, so, it is not 70 percent. “It is only for those who are pulling strain on our foreign reserves, who have no intention to create jobs, hut who want to continue to remain traders, that the 70 percent applies to and this is to discourage trading. It is to encourage local assembly and job creation and reduce unnecessary pressure on our foreign reserves,” he said.

How To Acquire New Drivers Licence FOLLOW the steps below to renew or acquire the new driver’s licence: STEP 1: Apply online at h t t p s : / / www.n.geriadriverslicence-org Print the form and bank teller or in person at Driver Licence Centre, DCL. STEP 2: Pay the licence fee online or at designated banks STEP 3: Present your form to the Board of Internal Revenue Officer or VIO at the DCL for endorsement STEP 4: Proceed to the Federal Road Safety Commission Office at the DIE for Biometrics Data Capturing STEP 5: You will be given a temporary driver’s licence that is valid for 60 days. For fresh applicants:

STEP 1: Attend training at accredited driving school. STEP 2: The driving school will present you to the VIO for driving test. STEP 3: Pass the driving test and the VTO will issue you a Certificate of Proficiemcy. STEP 4: Apply online at g rnigenadnvelshcenceorg. Print out the form and bank teller or in person at Driver Licence Centre, DLC. STEP 5: Pay the licence fees online or at designated banks STEP 6: Present your form to the Board of Internal Revenue Officer or VTO at the DLC for endorsement. STEP 7: Proceed to the Federal Road Safety Commission Officer at the DLC for Biometrics Data Capturing. STEP 8: You will be given a temporary drivers licence that is valid for 60 days.

“It is only for those who are pulling strain on our foreign reserves, who have no intention to create jobs, hut who want to continue to remain traders, that the 70 percent applies to and this is to discourage trading.”

Education Education And The Unemployment Factor

AN opinion pool was recently carried out in sampled towns in Anambra State by the author of this paper. Secondary school drop-outs were interview on why they left school to join trades. Parents were questioned why they no longer encourage their children to pursue secondary education. The response was generally the same: “Investment in education these days no longer yield economic benefits; but investing, the same number of years and fund which would have been budgeted for education, in trade or business will yield greater pecuniary profit”. It was primarily this mentality of our people that motivated me into outlining the following few considerations purposefully articulated in enlightening persons with such view and eradicating the view. The main issues here therefore are: do we acquire education only for employment? Are there other benefits accruing from educating other than employment? How does the society benefit from individual’s education? The problem is viewed from the cross -section of the society: studies in social science have provided data which indicate that the higher a family’s status, the more likely its children are to plan on acquiring education, to actually acquire it and later to graduate at higher institutions. These also reveal that many talented young people in Nigeria who are unable to take advantage of opportunities for secondary and higher education are concentrated in families of lower socioeconomic status. More recent evidence indicates that a policy of government subsidies through scholarship for example, tends to favour your groups of students who on average come from higher income families. Whether the barriers to education in general are largely economic or social in nature remains unresolved, but it is apparent that educational opportunities aid unequally distributed. ECONOMIC BENEFITS Economic benefits should not be considered with regard to the student alone. Other economic benefits exist. Regardless of how universal education is defined, the heart of the matter is its efficacy in producing benefits not only for the individual about also for society. Frank Bowles (1966) stated the issue quite succinctly “Universal education is not, in itself a goal for our educational system. The goals are

intellectual, social, economic, cultural, political - the enlargement of knowledge, an open society, the advancement of the culture, freedom of opportunity, freedom of conscience and political expression - aspirations that are individual and aspirations that are collective.” What are the “economic benefits” of education? The term itself is not precise in-asmuch as a variety of dimensions of benefit; may be regarded as economic and the line separating what is and is

not “economic” is often blurred. It is useful to distinguish in other ways the various dimensions of both benefit and costs for example, there are monetary and non-monetary benefits. Monetary benefits higher earning - are economic benefits; more there can be measured in terms of Naira. None-monetary benefits including the joys and pleasures derived from one’s education-might or might not be classified as economic; some non monetary benefits can be expressed in monetary equiva1 but others are difficult or impossible to quantify. Further there are individual benefits and social benefits, that is the benefits which are captured by individuals as contrasted to the total benefits, including individual benefits, which accrue to society. The usual term for the difference between individual and total benefits to society is external benefits - those benefits produced by education but which cannot be captured by the individuals who obtained the education. Both individual and external benefits have a monetary and non-monetary components. One often-cited piece of evidence is the relationship between education an occupational attainment. the

By REV. (DR.) J. C. ORAEMESI

general notion is that more education opens opportunities for individuals to enter better paying occupations. In general, the higher ranked occupations - ranked by income, prestige, and the like — are filled with the people who have vested more heavily in education. Consequently, the relationship between educational attainment and occupational attainment is said to he quite positive. Efforts to identify and quantify all factors, so as to

the rising educational attainment explain 16-23 percent of the growth rate of the economy in the U.S. over the period 1929 - 57. Some other studies indicate values placed on the contribution of education to economic growth of that nation. Despite such cited results, neither economists nor educators pretend to have any well-developed theories; that explains exactly how and why increased schooling facilitates

provide a more accurate statement of the effect of schooling on income have not been lightly successful. In summary, then, school and the facto is closely associated with it appear to have a strong impact on the economic rewards provided individuals in our society; in addition there are other satisfactions consumption benefits - which are not equally reflected in money earnings. Here I shall cite some of the research studies carried out overseas on this issue. Some in the audience might ask, why not research works in Nigeria. It is unfortunate to note that on account of lack to fund availability and governmental encouragement most of out higher institutions are not research oriented. How much fund is made available in this college, for example, for research? None. This is why we resort to oversea research centres. I do not want to be apologetic on this. An indicator of the economic benefits produced by education (all levels) is provided by research studies on the relationship between investment in schooling and economic growth. The pioneering work of Schultz and Denison (1963) indicates that improvements in the quality of the labour force resulting from

occupational entry, enhances worker productivity increases earnings and ultimately helps to account for a more rapid rate of economic growth. Another approach to the estimation of the economic returns to education, from the stand-point of both individuals and society, calls for a measure of the net economic benefits of education. Such a measure would permit us to combine costs (which are concentrated over a brief span of years in early adulthood) and the stream of benefits (which is spread over most of the remainder of a lifetime) by calculating the internal rate of return. This requires that future benefits be “discounted” to allow for the fact that far-distant benefits are valued less highly than benefits just a few years off in the future. The internal rate of return generated by this procedure may be likened to the rate of return or the rate of intent received from placing funds in a savings bank, buying government bonds, or investing in corporate securities. Individuals will find it beneficial to invest in more higher education if the internal rate of return to education for the individual exceeds the rate of re turn to other types of investments.

The analysis here deals with two kinds of internal rates of return. The first is the individual rate of return, which summarizes the future benefits and costs as perceived by the individual. The costs include the income that is forgone while in school and the costs of books, tuition and incidental expenses connected with schooling. The second is the society’s internal rate of return, which summarizes future benefits and costs as perceived from the standpoint of the economy as a whole. Thus,

costs include not only the costs to the individual but also the subsidy provided by the taxpayers through below-cost tuition. Later section of this paper refers to these costs as total resource costs. H I S T O R I C A L EVIDENCE ON BENEFITS Kotsching and Harris (1943) hypothesized concerning the U.S. that 1. Higher institution graduates would be in oversupply relative to the occupation they would seek to enter, with fewer and fewer educated people to do the less glamorous work; 2. The earnings of the higher institution graduates would fall relative to those of lesseducated groups; 3. Widespread unemployment of higher institution graduates would result because of the nontransferability of skills; 4. Idle, frustrated intellectuals would foment social revolution; 5. Larger productions of unqualified students would be enrolled in higher institutions, and as a consequence; 6. The social benefits to investing in higher institution training would decline. Did these dire predictions materialize? Towards the end of the decade 4of the l950s the individual’s rate of return held

constant, at somewhere between 10 -15 percent reported economists. Thus the predictions did not materialize. This is substantiated from the fact that three decades later, dramatic shift towards more universal higher education was being accomplished without any great change in the rate of return on investment the College - educated. The job market was able to assimilate the newly educated with comparative ease. The period of the 1960s, particular, was one of rapid economic expansion. In the turn of the decade when there speared to be increasing unemployment, individuals were able to alter their choices -‘. readjustments took place to help equilibrate supply and demand. These changes were expected to trigger reassessments by young people con templating their educational and career choices. HUMAN AND SOCIAL BENEFITS One common Nigerian way to justify a controversial enterprise is to argue that it makes or saves money. The benefits of education are considered to be such gains as lifetime income increments to the individual and contribute to the percentage rate of increase in the G.N.P. Since the assumption is widespread that monetary benefits are in some ultimate sense more “real” than less “tangible” human and social benefits, we begin this decussion of human and social benefits by considering two different Concepts of benefit and the two distinct components of higher education to which they correspond. We next turn to an examination of some empirical Studies of the effect of higher education attendance on students. Finally, we shall see that the human and social effects of education constitute benefits are necessary for the maintenance of a society that is not only technological and prosperous (as the present government envisages of Nigeria) out also open, pluralistic and democratic. These aspects will be treated briefly on an account of limited time for presentation of this paper. Much recent discussions of the costs, benefits and effectiveness of education in general among the Nigerian youths rest primarily on monetary or assumptions. Educational experiences can be classified as containing two distinct a Sometimes opposing components which are called technical and critical education.

Nigerian Women And Involvement In Leadership A historical excursion into our past and even contemporary experiences in Nigeria politico-military development in pre colonial era cannot be correctly written or understood without the mention of the effective leadership of women like; • Queen Amino of Zaira, well known for her military exploits as well as building the walls of Zaria which stands till today. She was renowned for her series of conquests and political domination of parts of the old Northern States. • Queen Idia of Benin who provided an effective military bastion for her son Oba Esigie of Benin. Apart from these royal names there are other Nigerian women whose names cannot be divorced from those who have contributed immensely in the socio-economic transformation of the country. · Christy Boyo · Nwakpa Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti • She was a woman’s right activist in the early 1900’s. • She was the first Nigerian lady to drive in Nigeria. • She fought the military against the unjust arrest of her son (Fela) and sustained an injury to her leg of which the resultant compilations allegedly led to her death. · Mother to Beko Ransom Kuti and Fela Kuti In 1948, she organized market women to chase away Alake of Egbaland who collaborated with colonial administration to impose tax on women. A great mobilizer and paid solidarity visits to the wives of the victim of the Iva valley massacre. Madam Tinubu the first Iyalode of Ebgaland who flourished in commercial ventures in Lagos a slave trader with her headquarters in Abeokuta. When she visited Badagry she realized the inhumane condition slaves were subjected to by the white men, she became an abolitionist. She spent a great part of her wealth on the abolition of slavery. Tinubu square in Lagos named after her, for her gallantry. To this end, we can also consider Chief Mrs. Margaret Ekpo who was one of those who fought for the political independence of Nigeria. She mobilized women against the Iva valley massacre of 1949. She was a protagonist of anticolonialism. She took active part in the general strike of 1945. She contested against the then chairman of Aba North branch in the National Council of Nigerian Citizen (NCNC) Mr. Felix Okonkwo and won the election. RESPONSE OF WOMEN TO TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP It is apparent that we look into this subject in our discourse because of the world or global advocacy on the participation of women on global issues —wherein some traditionalist use gender to generate debate in the society. However, inspite of their debate against women, we should note that a woman is said to be the PRIDE OF THE NATION. There is need for a rethink for the women to recapture their proudly role as women in the committee of nations. The response of women to transformational leadership in Nigeria can be seen from the examples these eminent women such as: DR. ELIZABETH DUPE OJO In February 1999, Dr. Elizabeth Dupe Ojo, won the Commission of Community and Non-formal Education Award from the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education in November, 1998. The award was given during the Association’s annual conference held in Phoenix, Arizona, and Dr. Ojo was cited for her participation as a board member in the organization, for being the chair of the Minority and Human Rights Unit and for her involvement with women in Higher Education in Tennessee. The news that she won this National award was published on the front page of her city’s local newspaper and in her anniversary’s newsletter with her picture on the front page. Considering the responses of transformational leadership of women in Nigeria at present we can be proud of Mrs. Kofo Akerele Bunknor who was Deputy Governor of Lagos State. Benue State University, Prof (Mrs) Comfort Ekpo as Vice Chancellor University of Uyo, Prof. Eka Br-aid Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Nassarawa and of course the Minister of Education Prof. Ruquayyatu Rufai, these are women who at one time or the other responded to the transformational leadership in Nigeria. The big question is, are you prepared for the position that is looking at you in the area of your operation or endeavours? Make an urgent rethink,

By UCHEMELE ECHINILE

the time is now. Mrs. Keny the first woman senator in the then Midwest region. Franca Ajegbura the senator in the 2 Republic of Nigeria Janet Akinriade- Minister of National Planning in the Republic. On intellectual grounds women also assailed Professor (Mrs) Bolanle Awe. Alche Williams — first woman VC of University of Nigeria, Nsukka THE CHALLENGES OF WOMEN IN ADOPTING TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP

The intensity of women participation in politics, education, social activities, both public and private organizations in Nigeria among Nigerian women is as a result of sophisticated social life and social network globally. This is true with the declaration of the United Nations for women emancipation against traditional- extremism. However, it is important to know that before now women were accorded little or no attention in leadership position that could make the folk stand equal in the community of men. To this end, the challenges of women in the transformational leadership style in Nigeria is due to the position of gender inequality in the area of education, politics, social security and protection from the men folk. Another challenge to women in either transformational or transactional leadership is the issue of education of the women which constitute a big problem for women to contribute their quota to national development. This is not Nigeria alone but many good world countries. Women suffer from problem of limited access to productive resources, while men are on the advantage as they have access to credit in different ways. The ability and power of women to use the knowledge and skills acquired in the process of education to adapt social and cultural changes and participate in political and economic activities within the society. Women need education to broaden their ideas, knowledge, attitudes, values and perception on which they can build a better life. CONCLUSION

GENDER ADVOCACY With

IJEOMA UMEH Tel: 081823822839

This paper is a wake-up call to the Nigerian women to take their rightful position in leadership responsibility while in other hand it is to create good managerial capacity in handling leadership responsibilities and challenges that goes with it. In doing that we said leadership is an awesome responsibility. A leader must have a vision- vision is like a dream that is worth dreaming — vision creates power, enthusiasm, dynamism esteem. A leader must have wisdom which is the ability to knowledge and experience any given situation. A leader must have courage: courage is not the absence of fear but the mastery of it. Having courage means doing what is right regardless of the consequences.

Leader must have humility: one of the surest evidence of greatness is a humble spirit. An effective leader is team centered, put the interest of others people above his own. A leader is a decision maker-a leader is a person of action and must master the art of decision-making. Ask for ideas, inputs thoughts from others in the system involvement leads to commitment. The decision-making burden belongs to the leader and everyone can never be pleased. A leader develops friendship: success in life depends upon the support and help of successful relationship it is based on mutual respect. Recognize your own self-worth and the selfworth of others. A leader exercises tact and diplomacy: leadership does not only involve knowing where you are going but also how to effectively work with people. In working together with people, the leaser needs warmth, enthusiasm and sensitivity. A leader develops executive ability: leaders learn to be leaders. The development of leadership skills is a never ending process. A leader never “arrives”. A leader exudes inspirational power: Leaders have a sense of purpose and destiny. More importantly, the inclination of women to shun politics as a deity game should be discarded rather women should be mobilized and concretized for effective involvement in the, the society. To this end, women who find themselves in position of authority should assist and recommend other women’s appointments

Religion

The Wonders Of His Praise!

THE greatest wonder of praising God is that when we are not sure that prayer will succeed, praises will always succeed in moving God to intervene in that situation you are passing through. - Another dimension to praise is that it is possible to pray amiss but you can never praise amiss! It is very important we understand that God loves praises. God is excited and moved when you praise Him, nothing moves God as much as when we praise Him. Praise works wonders.

When you praise God, your praise will cause God to arise and inhabit your praise. When God arises and moves in your direction as a result of praise, the presence and power of God will manifest miracles, signs and wonders. (Acts 16:25-26). Praise is a weapon of warfare; praise is the highest form of prayer. There is a time to pray and there is a time to praise God. When you praise God several things will happen. I wish to implore you that you should not limit your time of praises to today alone but be wise like David who says in ( Psa. 34:1) “I will bless the Lord at All times and His praises shall continually be in my mouth”. - Why? Because, constant praise ensures continuous

By BODE OLOJEDE

access to the presence and power of God even when you are not aware of imminent danger! Illustration: A man so much loved praising God that he wired his house with music such that 24/7 there is continuous praise music! 50 heavily Armed robbers came to raid their street one night, for four hours, the entire neighbourhood was under the siege of the Robbers

going from house to house. it was only his house that was not touched! Let me share with you some of the Wonders of His Praise: 1. God will arise for you. According to 2 Chro. 20:20- 25, God arose and confused the enemies as the Israelites praised God. Today, as we praise God lavishly and we will yet praise Him, all our enemies shall be thrown into permanent confusion in Jesus name. One of the ways to defeat and destroy the plans of your enemies is to continually offer to God the sacrifice of praise and you will see God arise on your behalf to dislodge all your enemies. Every enemy of

your destiny shall be dislodged from today. - One of the amazing wonders of praising God is that it gives you victory without a fight A gang l4man-armed robbers that laid siege on a family’s house were disarmed and rendered powerless just by praise. May the Almighty God render alt your enemies totally impotent as you praise Him in Jesus’ name. Amen. 2. Praise Destroys

Mountains. Mountains represent obstacles, hindrances and limitations which the enemies place on our path as we make efforts towards our promised land. In Jos. 6;121, the wall of Jericho stood as a mountain to hinder the progress of the people of God. Suddenly, The Lord informed Joshua to tell the people to use the weapon of

praise and on the seventh day, the wail of Jericho came down flat, never to be rebuilt again! - A young man who slumped to death on his wedding day in church was brought back to life through the instrument of praises to God. - Every wall of Limitation against you, as you praise God today, will fail down in Jesus name. - That limitation the enemy has placed before you shall end as their lamentation in

Jesus name. Amen. 3. Praise Brings Transfers of Wealth. In 2 Chro. 20:1-26, five enemy nations came against king Jehosaphat and the Israelites and God gave a revelation that the people should praise Him. As the people began to praise God, the armies of the five nations began to fight amongst themselves. When the people of Judah got to their Camp.

there were dead bodies littered all over the place and the people of God obtained valuables, such that the place until today is called the valley of blessing - As you spend quality time to praise God , he will organise an amazing transfer of wealth to you. Praise Brings Healing: - In response to praise, God removes the spirit of heaviness and clothes! us with a garment of praises and joy. - Whatever, you used to remember that causes you to breathe heavily will turn to testimony of celebrations and jubilations in Jesus name. Amen. Praise Scatters The Enemy: - When God arises and moves in your direction as you praise Him, demons will fly away, because H a consuming fire (Heb. 12:29), (Psa.68:1-2). - The Lord will arise and confuse all your enemies. Some the enemies include sickness, bondage, failure, etc. none shall escape the fire of God from today in Jesus name. Amen. Praise Brings HarvestPsa. 67:1-6,2 Chro. 20:25. The children of the tribe of Judah spent three full days to harvest where they have not sown! That is what I term to be unusual and uncommon harvest. Did you remember also that God gave favour to the children of God in the book of Exodus - Exo.12: 35-36? He instructed them to seek for loans and material facilities which has no repayment date. By the time they crossed the Red Sea, no one ever asked them to return what they borrowed again. Why? None of their enemies survived to ask for repayment. Praise Turns The Tide In Your Favour. -1 Sam. 17:37,45-47 Nobody gave David the

slightest chance to defeat Goliath! Goliath had this giant stature, reputation and experience as an accomplished warrior with experience from his youthful days! But when David showed up and praised the Lord of hosts acknowledging God’s previous exploits in his life, Goliath lost his head and David had the last laugh! As you praise God lavishly you will not only have the last laugh, you will never have cause to weep again! The next time you will weep, you will weep for Joy in Jesus name, Amen. Hidden Enemies Are Suddenly Exposed And Permanently Dealt With By God! – l Chronicles 15: 29, Michal died childless because she despised David for dancing and praising God! The worst enemies of a person’s life are the household enemies! It becomes more dangerous when the enemy is such that you sleep and wake up with him or her every day! - In the mighty name of Jesus, every household enemies awaiting your shame and death will die without a trace in Jesus Conclusion: No doubt there are diverse types of wonders in the praise of God. However, it is important to note that when praises go upwards, the presence and power of God comes down! The danger is that the power of God scatters His enemies and if you are one of His enemies you may be Scattered along with other enemies of God You may want to have a change of status today by turning your life over to Jesus! I wish you a wonderful time in this year’s Good Women Convention.

“Nobody gave David the slightest chance to defeat Goliath! Goliath had this giant stature, reputation and experience as an accomplished warrior with experience from his youthful days! But when David showed up and praised the Lord of hosts acknowledging God’s previous exploits in his life, Goliath lost his head and David had the last laugh!”

Politics Flagrant Disregard For The Rule Of Law By PDP Lawmakers In Edo State THERE is an adage in Esan that says the king that would have decided a matter has taken the gun by himself. Meaning that, the head of the community that would have decided, or presided over an issue has taking side in a quarrel. Therefore the community lives in a banana republic. Also, there is a saying that when sleep wants to take food from a child, he will never know, until he or she find him or herself on the ground. When one did not labour or suffer to get to the top of wealth, he or she cannot manage the fortunes. To know who a man is, give him a position, put him in the midst of women and money and see the person in him. These suspended members of Edo State House of Assembly who were put in the house from their various constituencies never laboured for the positions they occupied till the last day Ise-Idehen; when he came from abroad he was doing nothing, until he was picked by the leaders of ACN and the Comrade Governor campaigned for him to win the election. Ogieriakhi was sponsored by our respected Comrade Deputy Governor and won the election without sweat. The man from Edo South did not labour to secure his house of Assembly seat. Talking of Festus Ebea, he was doing nothing in Lagos, when he heard that his school mate, leader

Victor Eboigbe is a friend, and In —law to our Dear Comrade Governor Adams Aliyu Oshomhole. The first day he met Victor, his chameleon skill was displayed when, he was moving from one seat to the other. His actions and inactions during the Comrade’s delegates’ congress for his nomination for the seat of the Governor of Edo State, is now a history He was the head of tugs that never wanted Comrade Governor to succeed. Despite that, he was appointed the Secretary of Edo State Rapid Response Agency. Even at that, he was hobnobbing with the opposition party. The supposed Hon. Members, who were to make laws for the people of Edo State are now law breakers and lawless members. Our people say, the man who commits adultery with his family member ’s wife, dies when the dove fly’s in the farm. Because Festus

• Hon. Festus Ebea

Ebea, Ise -Idehen, Ogieriakhi and others know that, they will be punished or suspended, when they went to court to seek an injunction to prevent the House of Assembly from doing what they should do. The Bible says, the wicked runnet when no one pursues him. Eventually, when the sleep came to remove food from their hands, they became irresponsible lawless, lawbreakers, rude and dis-obedient. Jude became rude and Judas, Ebea became aria. Their actions in the House was a show of shame. They were wicked to their colleagues, even to the court officials where they went to take refuge when no one was after them. Now that, the court has asked them to obey the rule of law, their actions and inactions have deceived them and the sleep came and took their food from their hands without knowing. • By Elder Samuel Eboigbe Executive Director RRA

Knowledge For You

HEED your word. Do not talk merely for the sake of talking. And speak only when, where and how it is necessary. In the human word there shall be a reflection of the splendour of the Word of God, which is life and will eternally remain life. Abd-ru-shin says that all creation swings in the word of the Lord. Does this not make you think? Creation vibrates in Him, as also, do you yourselves, who are indeed, part of creation, for it arose out of Him and is maintained through this word. It has been clearly proclaimed to mankind. In the beginning was the word. And the word was with God. And the word was God. Here lies all knowledge for you, if you would only draw it. But you skim over it and do not heed it. Plainly, it tells you. The word came out of God. It was and is a part out of Him. A faint reflection of the power of the living Word of God, which contains all and embraces all that is outside of God, a faint reflection of this also, lies in the human word. It is true that the human word is only able to send out its effect into the planes of Fine Gross Matter, but that is enough retroactively to shape the destinies of men and also, of peoples here on earth (Abd-ru-shin) in the light of truth. Remember that! He who talks much stands only on the ground of the distorted, one sidedly developed intellect. The two always go hand in hand. By that, you can recognise it. And these are words emanating from the low earthly planes that can never build up. Wherever it does not obey this command it can only bring about the opposite. Abd-ru-shin says that liberation and redemption do not lie in the clamour of individuals and of the masses. People that permit

themselves to be led by talkers must inevitably and rightfully fall into bad repute, into sorrow and death into distress and misery, it is forcibly pushed into the mire. Therefore, beware of people who talk much for with these goes disintergration. You, however, are to become upbuilding ones in this creation, not talkers (Abd-rushin). Abd-ru-shin admonishes us not to squander these sublime gifts which God so mercifully granted us. But, seek to recognise them aright in their full value. Uptill now, the power of speech has been a curse to you through such people, who as lucifer’s satellities have misused it under the evil influence of the distorted and one-sidelly developed intellect. Further help given to you. Heed your word. Let your speech be simple and true. In accordance with the Holy will of God, it contains an ability to form in an upbuilding or also, in a destroying way, depending on the nature of the words and of the speaker. Therefore, guard your word. Pay careful attention to your speech, for the human word is also, a deed which, however, can only produce forms in the plane of Fine Gross Matter, that sink into and have an effect on everything earthly. This after all is not so difficult and yet it is just in this that you continually fail. Splander can again only produce splander, hate only hate and murder only murder. But dignity, peace, light and joy can in turn only arise from a dignified way of thinking, never otherwise. Therefore, always heed your word. And stand to your word. You have still to be taught the right way to do this in the building up of the kingdom of God here on earth. You must first recognise the power of these words which you have

hitherto so thoughtlessly and frivolous debased. Just think for once of the most Holy words that has been given to you, the word: God. You very often speak of God, too often for that awe still to resound in it which would indicate the right intuitive perception. When you utter this word the awe which will allow you only to whisper the sublime word in reverential devotion, so as to shield it carefully from any kind of desecration. But what have you men made of the most word. Instead to humbly and

itself in your earns into only an empty sound and thus, can find no entrance to your spirit. It is then obvious that the effect of this most sublime of all words will be different from the effect on those who whisper it with the proper awe and recognition. Therefore pay attention to all words, for they hold joy or sorrow for you, they build up or disintegrate, they bring clarity but can also confuse, according to the manner in which they are spoken and applied. Abd-ru-shin says humanity did not listen to the warning

joyfully preparing your spirit for this most sublime expression, so that, it may gratefully open itself to an unspeakable radiation – power of the unsubstantiated light sublimity of real being, who first permits you as well as all creatures to breathe, you have dared to drag it down to the low planes of your most trivial thinking, using it carelessly as an everyday word, which thereby, had now to form

voice of Jesus, the son of God, who already at that time said. “Let your communication be “yea” or “nay”, for whatever is more than these cometh of evil”. There is more in these words than you imagined, for they hold upbuilding or decline for mankind. Through your propensity for much and useless talk, you have chosen decline, which has already come to you. Finally, before the

“Remember that! He who talks much stands only on the ground of the distorted, one sidedly developed intellect. The two always go hand in hand. By that, you can recognise it. And these are words emanating from the low earthly planes that can never build up.”

Man And Nature With O.C. MADU 08056379608

general collapse in the judgement, it also still shows you quite clearly, as a help towards the saving recognition, all the fruits which you have forcibly brought into being through the wrong application of the word. The reciprocal now raises the master at your own sins to the top, in such a way that you are in danger of being crushed by them, so that, through recognition you

already been spread throughout this earth by the wrong application of this gift of being permitted to speak. Through ruinous, thoughtless and idle talk all men have sown poison. The seed has duly spring up, the plant has blossomed forth and now bears the fruit which you must harvest, whether you like it or not, for it is all the consequences of your actions that are now thrown

will at least free yourself from or be destroyed by them. That is at the same time justice and help, at last free yourselves from or be destroyed by them. Abd-ru-shin says, the entire mankind has actively participated in this, not merely individuals. They are the blossoms of all the wrong doing over past centuries which now had to ripen in these last fruits for the judgement so as to perish in this ripeness. Therefore, in the final reckoning, woe will now fall upon every human being who has abused the mysterious working of the word. But where is the man who has not yet sinned in this respect. For thousands of years the whole earthly race has been deeply entangled in this guilt what harm has

into your lap (Abd-ru-shin). That this poison must bring forth the most repulsive fruits will not surprise anyone who knows the laws in creation, which do not conform to the ideas of men, but serenely, pursue their great course, irresistibly, without deviation, from the primordial beginning and also, unchanged unto all eternity (Abd-ru-shin-“in the light of truth”). The time of harvest has already begun. There with all the consequences of wrong speaking now fall back up upon the individual, as upon the entire masses who encouraged such talk. No one may trifle with gifts of the Almighty without harming himself, such is the law which rests and works in creation and which can never be diverted.

Van Gaal Gets To Work With the Los Angeles United against LOUIS van Gaal was Galaxy, Roma, Inter Milan

QPR’s English striker Bobby Zamora scores the opening goal during the English Championship play off final football match between Derby County and Queens Park Rangers at Wembley Stadium in London on May 24, 2014.

Zamora Pens New QPR Deal QPR’S Wembley hero Bobby Zamora has signed a new one-year contract with the club. Zamora scored the lastminute goal that earned Harry Redknapp’s men a play-off final win over Derby in May, granting them an instant return to the top flight. It had appeared he might not be going back to the Premier League with them, though, as an extension to his expired deal was not agreed.

He has now penned a 12month contract, however. “I’m over the moon,” said Zamora after agreeing to stay with the club until the summer of 2015. “I’ve had an up-anddown time at QPR. I started off really well but then picked up a couple of injuries and didn’t perform as well as I wanted to. “But at the end of last year, after coming back following injury, I thought whenever I was called upon to do a job, I did it

talkSPORT that Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere needs to “get his act together.” Wilshere, 22, was photographed smoking and drinking while on holiday, behaviour which former Arsenal manager Graham has condemned. Graham, who led the Gunners to two league titles, believes current Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger will speak to the England international about his behaviour. The Scot said: “Arsene Wenger is the right man to deal with it. He wants a person to not only train well

and eat well, but behave well. “After the bad publicity shots in the newspapers, somebody has got to have a word with him and I think Arsene Wenger will do. “His career has not gone anywhere in the last 18 months. The papers now want any sort of publicity of players misbehaving and he has got to get his act together. “Arsene Wenger has to have a word with Jack and tell him the responsibility he has now got. They were talking about him being a future Arsenal captain and a captain shouldn’t be acting like that.”

CHELSEA have confirmed that they have completed the signing of Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid on a five-year deal.

Jose Mourinho’s Blues announced on July 1 that they had met the Brazilianborn striker’s release clause and that he would join them in the coming weeks. Costa, who represented Spain in a woeful World Cup, has now completed his move to Stamford Bridge and will join his new teammates at their training camp next week. Chelsea announced the news on their website. A statement read: “Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce Diego Costa

Graham Hits Out At Wilshere GEORGE Graham has told Behaviour

well.” Zamora has made 59 appearances since joining QPR from Fulham, scoring 11 times, with his most recent goal valued at £100million.

preparing to begin work as Manchester United manager on Wednesday. The Dutchman was due to arrive at United’s Carrington training ground to take up the reins only four days after guiding Netherlands to third place at the World Cup in Brazil. Van Gaal opted against taking a holiday and will instead throw himself into United life, meeting those players who are not on a post World Cup break as well as club staff. The 62-year-old, United’s first manager from outside the British Isles, will have no time to ease himself in. On Thursday he will be officially presented at a press conference before

and Real Madrid before beginning their Premier League campaign at home to Swansea on August 16.

Louis Van Gaal

Chelsea Set To Sign Atleti Star Filipe Luis

CHELSEA have clinched a deal to sign Brazilian leftback Filipe Luis from Atletico Madrid. Chelsea on Tuesday Luis, who was not named announced the capture of in Brazil’s World Cup squad striker Diego Costa from the but impressed greatly as Spanish club and he will be Atleti won La Liga and joined by another hero of the reached the final of the Liga-winning side, should Champions League last Luis satisfactorily complete a season, informed the club at medical and agree personal the end of the campaign that terms. he wished to leave. Reports suggest Chelsea He spent four years at the have agreed to pay £20 Vicente Calderon having million for the defender, joined the club from having spent £32m on Costa. Deportivo La Coruna. The club said in a The 28-year-old replaces statement: “Chelsea Football Ashley Cole in the Chelsea Club can confirm an squad following his free agreement has been reached transfer move to Roma and is with Atletico Madrid for the expected to dislodge Cesar transfer of Filipe Luis. The Azpilicueta, a right-back move is subject to the 28- switched to the left, from the year-old left-back agreeing first XI at Stamford Bridge. personal terms.” EXPERT ANALYSIS

Chelsea Complete Diego Costa Signing

Diego Costa

jetting off to the USA on Friday for the club’s preseason tour. United will play matches

has today completed his transfer from Atletico Madrid by signing a fiveyear contract. “He will join up with the first team for our pre-season European training camp next week.” The 25-year-old expressed his joy at joining the London-based outfit following the announcement of deal. “I am very happy to sign for Chelsea. Everybody

knows it is a big club in a very competitive league, and I am very excited to get started in England with a fantastic coach and teammates. Having played against Chelsea last season I know the high quality of the squad I am joining,” Costa told Chelsea’s website. “I would like to thank everybody at Atletico who made me into the player I am, it was an incredible time for me, but now I am starting a new adventure and I hope to win many trophies with Chelsea.”

Jorge Ordas, Eurosport Spain: “Filipe Luis is a really interesting player. He’s really fast and he likes to attack a lot. You often see him going into the opposite box, but it doesn’t mean he’s a bad defender. He has an amazing physical form and he can run lots of kilometres in every game. “He has been one of the best left wing-backs in La Liga in the last four to five years. When he was a Deportivo

player he suffered a severe injury in his ankle and he couldn’t play for five or six months. Before that incident a lot of big teams in Europe were looking him but he decided to sign for Atletico and recover. “He played for four years with Atletico and he was a fans’ favourite, although that will change that after this transfer. He’s a good teammate and I think he will be very useful for Chelsea.”

CHELSEA striker Demba Ba looks set for a move to Besiktas in Turkey after the two clubs agreed a fee for the striker. Despite scoring crucial goals against Liverpool, Swansea and Paris Saint-Germain at the end of last season, the Senegalese striker struggled to earn a regular place in Jose Mourinho’s matchday plans. Now with the arrival of £32m signing Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid and the possible return of Romelu Lukaku from loan, he has been deemed surplus to requirements. “Demba Ba is an excellent player, we have been in talks with Chelsea for a long time over bringing him to Istanbul,” confirmed the Turkish club’s president Fikret Orman. “Talks are ongoing. Chelsea initially wanted £10 million for Ba but we have negotiated a price we are happy with. We’ll

tell the media once the final deal is done.” Ba heavily hinted at a potential move to Besiktas earlier in the summer when he posted a picture of their fans on his Instagram page. Besiktas are currently coached by former West Ham and Everton star Slaven Bilic and finished third in the Turkish League last season.

... Accept £8m Besiktas Offer For Demba Ba

Demba Ba

Conte Resigns As Juventus Boss

ANTONIO Conte has left his role as the manager of Juventus by mutual consent, the Serie A club have announced. The 44-year-old announced but the summer of 2013 saw him his decision in a video interview embroiled in a corruption row on the club’s official website after he was charged with failing just a day after the start of preto report attempted match-fixing season. during his time with Siena. Juventus also confirmed Conte pleaded innocence but Conte’s decision to step down was banned for 10 months - a citing mutual consent - with sentence reduced to a four-month chairman Andrea Agnelli touchline suspension last August. delivering a passionate tribute. “Dear Antonio, you have been a great leader and this news saddens me greatly,” he wrote on Juve’s official site. “Three years together have led us to write history with three consecutive titles and two Italian cups. “You have given a group of highly talented professionals who will be at the disposal of the new coach to continue writing the future. “You are in the history of the Bianconeri colours and whatever choice you make, a Juventus victory will always make you smile. “Antonio, thank you for everything. Til the end.” Speaking to www.juventus.com, Conte said time had caught up with him at the club and that the time was right to bid them farewell. Antonio Conte. “I have decided to terminate my contract with Juventus,” he said. “I have matured with time and my feelings led me to make this choice. It may be more difficult MASSIMILIANO to keep winning with Juventus. Allegri has been “An enormous thank you for what you have given to me as a appointed the head coach player and as a coach. I have of Juventus, succeeding always been close to you. I want Antonio Conte who to say that the journey taken in recent years has been historic.” resigned on Tuesday. Conte, a former Italy Former AC Milan international, joined Juve from tactician Allegri has Siena in 2011 and returned to Turin to a fanfare owing to his agreed a two-year deal standing as one of the club’s with the Serie A greatest ever players. He made champions and replaces over 500 appearances in black Conte who shocked the and white and won five league titles. Turin-based outfit with That Midas touch continued his resignation on as he won Serie A at the first Tuesday. attempt with his side going unbeaten throughout the league Conte, who was under season. contract with Juve for a A second title duly followed

He returned to the dugout midway through last season and duly led Juve to another title, the 32nd in their history. Conte signed a new deal through to the summer of 2015 earlier this year but now appears to be the man destined to fill Cesare Prandelli’s shoes in charge of the Italian national side. He leaves amid fevered

Marca reported that if the Real Madrid deal went through, Diego Lopez would be set for pastures new, moving either to Italian side Napoli or to Ligue 1 bigspenders Monaco. Lopez was Madrid’s firstchoice goalkeeper for league games last season, but club captain Iker Casillas started every Copa del Rey and Champions League match. The signing of Navas — who excelled at the World Cup, conceding only twice as his side reached their firstever quarterfinal — would mean strong competition for Casillas. The Spain skipper suffered a torrid time in Brazil, letting

in five goals as the defending champions were thrashed by Netherlands and went out at the group stage.

speculation regarding the future of key players Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal. Former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini and ex-AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri are already being linked with his position at Juventus.

MARIO Gotze’s younger brother Felix has joined Bayern Munich from Borussia Dortmund, Sport Bild has reported. Felix Gotze, 16, has become the last of the three Gotze brothers to leave Dortmund. “He has joined us, that’s right,” Bayern’s head of youth Michael Tarnat told Sport Bild. Gotze will play for Bayern’s under-17 team, which is currently coached by Heiko Herrlich, a member of Dortmund’s 1997 Champions

League-winning team alongside Bayern sporting executive Matthias Sammer. Germany World Cup final hero Mario Gotze, 22, joined Bayern in a 37 million euros transfer in 2013, while 24-yearold Fabian left Borussia in 2010 but stayed in the Dortmund region and played for VfL Bochum reserves for a number of years. In 2013, Fabian Gotze joined Munch third league side SpVgg Unterhaching, where he plays alongside Mats Hummels’ younger brother Jonas. Mario and Fabian Gotze share a flat in Munich city centre.

Pirlo’s Juventus Future In Doubt

Allegri Appointed June Coach further season, surprisingly stepped down just one day into the Bianconeri’s preseason preparations having enjoyed three successful years at the Juventus Stadium. 46-year-old Allegri has been out of a job since being dismissed by Milan in January, with the Rossoneri in the midst of a nightmare season when they trailed Juve by as many as 30 points. The difficult campaign

Keylor Navas ‘Set For Real Madrid’

COSTA Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas is set to join Real Madrid after the European champions agreed to meet the release clause in his contract, reports in Spain have said. Marca said Madrid had agreed to pay the 10 million euros stipulated in the Levante keeper’s contract. The report comes weeks after Levante president Quico Catalan had denied that Real Madrid were in for Navas but said the club had turned down a bid from Atletico Madrid. Bayern Munich were also reported to have been in the frame to sign the goalkeeper.

Gotze’s Younger Brother Joins Bayern

Keylor Navas

at Milan does not appear to have damaged the coaching prospects of Allegri, who joined the San Siro outfit in 2010 after two successful seasons in charge of Cagliari. The Tuscan-born tactician led the Rossoneri to the scudetto and the Italian Supercup in 2010-11, his first season in charge, and was voted by his peers as 2011’s Serie A coach of the Year. Conte led Juve to a third consecutive title in the 2013-14 campaign, the first time the club has achieved the feat since a

five-season title run in the 1930s. He is widely expected to become Italy’s new coach. Cesare Prandelli resigned after the Azzurri exited the World Cup at the group stage in Brazil. Conte led Juve to a third consecutive title in the 2013-14 campaign, the first time the club has achieved the feat since a five-season title run in the 1930s. He is widely expected to become Italy’s new coach. Cesare Prandelli resigned after the Azzurri exited the World Cup at the group stage in Brazil.

ANDREA Pirlo’s Juventus future could be in doubt, with reports that Massimiliano Allegri will take charge following Antonio Conte’s exit. Antonio Conte announced his resignation as Bianconeri boss on Tuesday night after falling out with the club over transfer strategy. As such, the champions have acted quickly in lining up a successor, with stories emanating that the former Milan man has agreed a twoyear deal. But that news could throw Pirlo’s future in Turin in doubt, at least according to Tuttosport. The paper believes that the veteran midfielder could angle for a move away following their previous disagreements. Pirlo was shown the door at San Siro by Allegri back in 2011, but has gone on to become the lynchpin of Juve’s three title wins. The sports daily claims that the Italy international is uneasy about working with the 46-year-old again, but the tactician is desperate to heal old wounds and keep his star man. OUR VIEW Allegri (or Milan) made one of the biggest gaffes in the history of football when letting Pirlo leave on a free for Juve and Antonio Conte reaped the benefits. But Conte’s departure means Juve are now in chaos, with Chelsea and Manchester United reportedly given fresh hope of landing Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal too. Juve can’t risk losing their entire midfield so must do everything in their power to keep Pirlo, if these reports prove to be correct.

2014 FIFA World Cup... 2014 FIFA World Cup...

Five Things We Learned From An

SO the best team won the World Cup and Brazil 2014 will go down in history as one of the finest tournaments in recent memory. Here are five things that we will remember from this World Cup: best out of their players – not to Suarez, not Messi, is this mention the penalty shoot-out generation’s Maradona scenario, where Louis van Gaal Just when you thought Luis switched goalkeepers, uniquely at Suarez had overturned the this level of competition, to narrative, spent one year doing provide his team with an edge that great things on and off the pitch, proved decisive. taking notice of his wife Sofia’s The final summed up these warnings about his on-field tactical differences perfectly, as behaviour, he bites back. Again. the two teams trusted in their If there was something styles and went for it. And once depressing about Suarez again, two substitutes made all the sinking his teeth into the difference: Andre Schuerrle shoulder of Giorgio Chiellini, crossing for Mario Goetze for the his reaction after it, and that of winning goal. What does it tell us? the Uruguay team-mates, Not necessarily that having ‘a coach, and indeed the country’s philosophy’ or ‘an identity’ works, president, was also unsettling. but that Hodgson was off-beam. No apology, no remorse, no The beauty of Brazil 2014 was admission of the severity (or at that we saw many coaches try least, the weirdness) of the something different – the likes of player’s third such offence – at Jorge Luis Pinto, Van Gaal, Vahid least until it was too late, and Halilhodzic and Jorge Sampaoli seemed forced. – and for most of them, it worked. And in that respect, Suarez Not quite so much for the Italian could be compared to Diego trio of Alberto Zaccheroni Maradona, for whom the (Japan), Fabio Capello (Russia) moments of genius on the pitch and Cesare Prandelli (Italy) – all always came at a cost (though went home after the group stage. Maradona’s problems were Time to take head injuries always away from the pitch, seriously while Suarez off the pitch is Alvaro Pereira against England; exemplary). Four years ago, Javier Mascherano against Suarez’s handball on the goalNetherlands; Christoph Kramer line helped Uruguay reach the against Argentina. The first two semi-finals. This time, Uruguay were knocked out cold and yet went on to beat Italy to get out completed their matches – in of Group D but lost their next Mascherano’s case, he was man match to Colombia. This time, of the match – while two medical the ends did not justify the staff had to guide off a wobbly means. But one thing is for sure: Kramer 10 minutes after his initial the incident certainly expedited collision. These three incidents of his departure from Liverpool. head injuries do not fit into the That wasn’t Suarez’s end-game all along, was it? And what happens if the time comes when he wants to leave Barcelona? Coaches can make the difference Roy Hodgson gave a fascinating, yet startling, interview before the World Cup THE moment couldn’t have in which he compared this carried more historical weight, England team to Germany in and couldn’t have been more 2006 (turns out both teams have ‘transition between pressurised. It was what the entire generations’ in common but World Cup final came down to, that’s about all, as Germany and some have already argued reached the semi-final). He was Leo Messi’s entire legacy. also asked what his signature The Argentina No. 10 stood style was and told France around 30 yards from goal. His Football: “How many coaches team were 1-0 down to Germany in the world have that? I do the with just one minute left on the same as 99% of them! There is clock, and just one kick left to nothing that we do which is save them. The free-kick was in a radically different from what similar position to his group-stage others are doing. What varies from one team to another, it is the quality of the players.” What we saw proved Hodgson’s words patently untrue. How else could you explain Costa Rica topping their group and coming a penalty shoot-out away from a semi-final spot? What about Netherlands, whose constantly evolving tactical shape helped them finish third, with six players based in the Eredivisie? Chile, Mexico, Australia, Greece, Algeria: they all had tactical plans and executed them. That is down to the coaches, who get little time to work with their players during a season and yet for the last month, have (mostly) given a master-class into how to get the Messi reacts after Argentina

Unforgettable World Cup narrative of ‘sexy football’ in Brazil but they at least make a serious issue of it. The world players’ union Fifpro have pushed for a rule change over the issue while FIFA ratified a regulation in November 2012 that all players suffering concussion need to leave the field immediately. It has not happened and the fact that Pereira and Mascherano played on means nothing; the governing body has a duty to protect its players and needs to clamp down on the rules. Goalkeepers still undervalued It was a pre-World Cup transfer that almost went under the radar. Levante goalkeeper

Keylor Navas had agreed terms to join FC Porto and the Portuguese club was prepared to pay +3m for the Costa Rican. Five games later, and the askingprice is nearer +10m. That’s what a decent World Cup can do to a transfer (and why smart business is done before the tournament). But while this competition gave some players the chance to shine – and possibly earn moves on the back of it – the real lesson should be the importance that goalkeepers have had. The likes of Tim Howard, Vincent Enyeama, Guillermo Ochoa, David Ospina were all key players for their teams. “The role of the goalkeepers here has been fundamental,” said

Manuel Neuer, who cemented his status as the world’s best goalkeeper. “We have seen a lot of good performances. More than four years ago. You must also notice that the level of the goalkeepers who play for little nations is better.” As for +10m for Navas – even at that price, it could well be a bargain. And Neuer may have won the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper, but in a non-FIFA world, he may also have been voted best player of the tournament as well. International football still matters There were so many memorable moments, and fantastic stories, at this World Cup: from Robin van Persie’s

Suarez’s Bite

flying header to Colombia goalkeeper Ospina’s reaction to being replaced by 43-year-old Farid Mondragon; the surprise (or not) failures of Spain and England, and the glorious defeats of Algeria and USA; BosniaHerzegovina’s World Cup debut and Iran’s brave but ultimately futile resistance against Argentina; Netherlands’ Tim Krul-inspired shoot-out drama and Brazil’s relief from 12 yards against Chile (I wonder if Luiz Felipe Scolari wishes that Chile had won that game, so avoiding that momentous semi-final defeat). And of course that iconic semifinal result, Germany’s 7-1 win, a result and performance that will come, rightly or wrongly, to represent Brazil 2014, as the emotion of the host nation, grieving the injury of one player, wilted in the face of a clinical attacking force. These games were important and they will live long in the memory. For all the talk that the Champions League provides better quality, this competition remains the pinnacle for any professional. As Gary Lineker put it before a ball was kicked: “What you do at a World Cup will overshadow anything else you may achieve in club football. It’s what you do in a World Cup that can define you.” Mario Goetze is just about to discover that.

Great, But Not The Greatest As Misses Prove Costly For Messi goal against Nigeria, but in drastically different circumstances. Given the stakes of an equaliser at that point, a successful strike would have meant everything; a miss would have left him with absolutely nothing. The latter was what Argentina ended up with. Rather than gloriously curling the ball into the top corner, Messi sent it high into the air over Manuel Neuer’s goal. His chances of

winning the 2014 World Cup followed it into the sky. Instead of confirming his eternal genius with one wondrous final act in the most historic of fixtures, he instantly saw all the old questions return. The latter, really, is ludicrous. The very fact a single kick could have produced such extremely contrasting reactions displays the immense expectations on Messi. It also emphasises how great he is,

lose to Germany in world cup final.

especially after a tournament that would have been superb by anyone else’s standards. He created more chances than anyone else and came so close to creating history. As such, it’s worth taking a step back. That kick, and the earlier 47th-minute chance, were not just about winning the World Cup - at least not for Messi. They were about providing a debate-ending statement. Had he scored, and gone on to win the trophy, it would have left him with a career that was simply incomparable among football’s immortals. Unlike virtually all of the rest of them from Diego Maradona to Alfredo Di Stefano, Messi only lacks one major trophy. The World Cup was the last one he had to win. In that regard, he failed with his last act. That can’t be disputed. It will stand against him. He also failed with an earlier act that was much more damning. Just moments after half-time, Messi was put through by Gonzalo Higuain but could only succeed in putting the ball wide. The most troubling aspect was

that, unlike the Nigeria goal and the pass for Angel Di Maria against Switzerland, this was an inversion of everything that had gone on before in this World Cup. Messi was now missing by inches when previously he had maximised the most minimalist of circumstances. It adds greater edge that it was on the more exacting of stages, the one where it meant the most. As a result, this was a repeat of 1990 rather than 1986. Instead of replicating Maradona in Mexico 28 years ago, this was a re-iteration of Italia 90. There were flashes of genius, one big miss, and then Germany winning it late on. It’s often forgotten Maradona actually missed a big penalty in the semi-final shoot-out of that tournament, and that he didn’t actually win that much else beyond the 1986 World Cup other than two Serie A titles. This is not to excuse Messi’s display, but to point out that his career has always been almost the inverse of Maradona’s, with the parallels between this World Cup and 1990 the only real meeting point.

FIFA Ban: Sports Minister Urges Aggrieved Parties To Withdraw Court Cases

SPORTS Minister Tammy Danagogo on Tuesday called on all parties involved in actions which led to Nigeria’s July 9 ban by FIFA to do the needful to ensure a reversal. In a statement in Abuja the commencement of the Nigeria by Patrick Omorodion, the 2013/2014 Minister’s Special Professional Football Assistant on Media, League (NPFL) season from Danagogo made reference suspended to Victor Baribote and participating in the those he called “the two competition. The suspension was later rivaling factions of the reversed after some court Nigeria Football orders and out-of-court Association (NFA). “Following the order of settlement. The Minister assured the the Jos High Court against the NFA, the threat of FIFA plaintiffs in court, as well to suspend Nigeria and the as “the aggrieved factions outcome of the fact- in the NFA’’ that finding team sent to government would stop at interface with FIFA, there is the need to act and ensure that there is no suspension,’’ it said. The court order of July 2 had precipitated a chain of actions which had culminated in FIFA placing a temporary ban on Nigeria. The suit was instituted by Ruth Baribote of Nembe City FC of Yenagoa, wife of Victor Baribote, a former NFA Second ViceChairman and Chairman of the then Nigeria Premier League (NPL). Nembe City and Giwa Aminu Maigari FC of Jos were just before

nothing to ensure that Nigeria was not suspended. “Government will also stop at nothing to ensure that the NFA is thoroughly sanitised and the complaints of unbridled corruption and highhandedness by the NFA leadership is addressed,’’ the statement said. It stated that Danagogo also said government would immediately set in motion machinery to ensure that the parties were persuaded to withdraw the case and the

suspension was lifted “Government will also encourage the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) to quickly activate the Court of Arbitration in Sports (CAS). “This is necessary because the unending circle of disputes, court cases and FIFA suspension threats is caused by the fact that aggrieved parties in the NFA have nowhere to resort to for redress. “FIFA has said it does not countenance with our national and municipal courts and there is no

active Court of Arbitration in Sports (CAS). “This leaves aggrieved parties at the mercy of the NFA leadership who are the complainants, judge and jury against any member of the NFA who complains against any form of corruption and highhandedness. “As such, cases are visited with bans and other forms of punishment contrary to the dictates of fair hearing and justice,’’ the statement said. The NFA had earlier banned for 10 years Victor

Victor Rumson Baribote

Baribote, and for 15 years Taiwo Ogunjobi, a former member of its board also. The statement further quoted the minister as assuring that all the allegations of unbridled corruption over the years in the NFA would be thoroughly looked into and culprits brought to book. “This is in view of the fact that FIFA also agrees that it abhors corruption, and we shall employ every machinery of government to ensure this. “We want to assure Nigerians that the sole motive of government is to promote the game of football and ensure that sanity prevails in the management of government resources deployed for the promotion of sports. “We believe that, at the end of the day, our sports in general and the game of football in particular will come out better and stronger. “We therefore thank the Nigerian populace, the media, the football stakeholders and, indeed, the teeming sports lovers for their support and patience while this dispute persists,’’ the statement added.

Athletics

Powell Clinches 3rd On Comeback

Kemarley Brown (left), Asafa Powell (centre) and Keston (right) compete in the Men’s 100m race at the EAA Premium Meeting Lucerne on July 15, 2014 in Lucerne.

Sierra Leone Suspends 15 For Alleged Match-Fixing

FOOTBALL authorities in Sierra Leone have indefinitely suspended four national team players, including captain Ibrahim Kargbo, three referees and eight other officials on allegations of match-fixing. Three of the players had been called up to play in Saturday’s African Nations Cup qualifier against Seychelles in Freetown. In a press release jointly signed by sports minister Paul Kamara and Sierra Leone Football Association president Isha Johansen, the 15 are alleged to have been involved in fixing the

outcome of a Nations Cup qualifier against South Africa in 2008 which ended in a goalless draw. The release says the two institutions received “credible and tangible information” on the alleged involvement of the group in match-fixing and that the players will have nothing to do with the weekend fixture. Kargbo had last season been playing club football in Belgium but was most recently on trial at

Swindon Town in England. The other players implicated are defender Ibrahim Koroma, who plays at Varbarg in Sweden; Samuel Barlay, who plays in Azerbaijan and goalkeeper Christian Caulker who plays for local side FC Kallon. The suspended officials include football administrator, Rodney Michael who was controversially disqualified from running for FA President in August last year on allegations

that he had links to a sportsbetting company. Michael said he was “in total shock” and referred to it as “a political interference into the running of football”. Speaking to Reuters from London, he called the suspension “a witch-hunt because I am leading a crusade for the FA to hold its annual congress which is stated in the constitution to (be held) not later than August this year”.

JAMAICAN sprinter Asafa Powell finished third on his return to 100m action at a meeting in Lucerne, the day after his reduced doping ban ended. “It’s good to be back. I’ve had a lot of stress and pressure over the last few months,” said Powell after running 10.30 seconds behind compatriot Julian Forte in 10.23 and Antoine Adams of St Kitts and Nevis in 10.29. “I haven’t trained for three weeks. I need to come back bit by bit,” he told reporters after the race on Tuesday.

The former world record holder was suspended, along with training partner Sherone Simpson, for 18 months by a Jamaica Anti-doping disciplinary panel after both tested positive for a banned stimulant. They claimed the substance had been in a contaminated food supplement. The suspension was reduced to six months on appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and expired on Monday. Powell’s last competitive outing came at the Lausanne Diamond League meeting in July last year.

TOP seed David Ferrer came from behind to beat Mikhail Kukushkin 2-6 6-3 6-2 and advance into the second round of the Hamburg Open. The world number seven, who held a 4-0 record over Kazakh Kukushkin, struggled during the first set as he made a number of errors to concede an early break. Kukushkin, ranked 46 places below the Spaniard, didn’t relinquish the early advantage and held his serve and his nerve to take the opening set. However, Ferrer showed his experience during the second

stanza to break his opponent and level the match at one set each. With the momentum behind him, Ferrer claimed the final five games of the contest to claim victory in one hour and 56 minutes. The Spaniard will now face either Juan Monaco or Andreas Seppi. Earlier in the day youngster Dominic Thiem saved a match point and fought from 3-5 down in the final set to beat Marcel Granollers 2-6 6-3 7-5.

Ferrer Fights Back To Win In Hamburg

CMYK

Our Consequential Bereavement REACTING to our recent article titled “No hiding place for tax defaulters”, one of our avid readers wonders why our governments handle tax defaulters with kid gloves. He submits that the payment of tax should be more than a duty; rather, it should be elevated to the level of a right of every citizen, such that if a person is denied the right to pay tax, he should go to court to enforce the right. Listen to him: “In more civilized societies, only mad men and minors do not pay tax. This perhaps explains why those governments take seriously the burden of curing their mad ones so that they can quickly fall back into the tax bracket. Failure to remit withheld taxes to government should be lifted to the criminal level of outright embezzlement, where it rightly belongs. Our tax laws will benefit from a p p r o p r i a t e amendments so that default in tax payment should be visited with commensurate jail terms while delayed withheld taxes should be remitted with high interest.” The self-acclaimed biggest party in Africa is roaring about, looking for whom to destroy. At one time or another, it has exported its troubles to Anambra, Plateau, Oyo, Rivers, and lately, to Edo, Adamawa and Imo States – to name just a few. In order to avoid swimming in murky waters, some clever State Governors have learnt to quickly build loose alliances with the big bull in marriages of convenience or cooperation by coercion. We remember Anambra State under Governor Peter Obi and the current Ondo State under Governor

Olusegun Mimiko. Wittingly or unwittingly, the bully has invariably ended up shooting itself on the foot in these States. In the immediate past elections, the big bull short-changed itself by totally surrendering to the cooperation arrangement; where the big bull and its

concerned if after an election, every party returns home to set up its own Assembly as we have in Rivers and Edo States today – APC Assemblies with overwhelming majorities and PDP Assemblies with microscopic minorities of two or three members;

State may have missed the point when they put on themselves the unnecessary burden of being the ones who impeached Ebea. They failed to listen enough to Richard Nixon (1913 – 1994), the 37th President of the United States of America, who in his

APC Speakers and PDP Speakers; APC with authentic mazes and PDP with fake mazes? Does this situation not portend enough danger to make every Nigerian feel a sense of bereavement? In the particular case of Edo State, who really impeached Festus Ebea? APC legislators in that

MEMOIRS warned people to desist from volunteering answers to unsolicited information. For Nixon, people invariably fall into trouble when they begin to answer questions that are not asked. Essentially, Ebea impeached himself. In every legislature in this

• Hon. Festus Ebea

candidates are always the worse for it. In Anambra and Ondo States Biggie abandoned its candidates midstream! As we speak, those candidates are still licking their wounds. They will soon accuse us of crying more than the bereaved. But this is still our country and to that extent, we are all bereaved. Call it c o n s e q u e n t i a l bereavement, if you wish. Why should we not feel concerned about an emerging trend in which every State that is not within the control of the big bull must operate parallel Houses of Assembly? Why should we not be

country, the position of Deputy Speaker is for the majority party. When Ebea was in the APC, he was the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly. The moment he left the APC, he removed himself from the position. The APC members missed it when they started obtaining signatures to impeach a man who had already impeached himself. Of course, in an attempt to answer unasked questions, they fell into the trouble of whether or not they met the twothirds majority requirement. Ebea may claim that he has not formally resigned from the APC. He can tell that to the marines! Which resignation can be more than the fact that he is the Speaker of the “PDP Assembly”? In fact, were INEC to show itself as not demonstrably an arm of the PDP, the only favour it could do to Ebea at this point would be to hold him in contempt — belonging to two political parties at the same time? Why should we feign lack of bereavement when we see the big bull trying to muzzle the Imo State government into u n n e c e s s a r y submissions, all preparatory to “capturing the State”, come 2015? Why should the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria be dissipating its energy in the futile debate of the alleged attempt to issue ID cards to Northern

elements resident in Imo State, even when the Imo State Government has consistently denied the allegation? And nobody wants to listen to the Imo State officials that the Northerners are the ones who want to get ID cards for themselves? The ID cards issue has many parallels in history. If you stay in your hallowed chambers or in your air-conditioned offices in faraway Abuja and pontificate over what people are doing to save lives, you will never understand the import except you have been in a similar situation. Some of us have seen it. The Nigerian Civil War caught us in Lagos. The Hausa soldiers were searching out “Nyamiris” (Ibos) to kill. Some unscrupulous Yoruba elements attempted to take advantage of the situation to get rid of us and create opportunities for themselves. They dubbed those of us from a greater part of then Midwest Region Nyamiris. We recall quite vividly that Col. S.O. Ogbemudia, as he was then, Col. Ayaru and late Pa Longe of Mandilas were the ones who came to our rescue. They organized ID Cards for us, which we in turn cloned and distributed to some of our Ibo friends. The cards saved our lives without vitiating our citizenship of Nigeria! If ID cards were useful then, why would they be useless now?

“Ebea may claim that he has not formally resigned from the APC. He can tell that to the marines! Which resignation can be more than the fact that he is the Speaker of the “PDP Assembly”? In fact, were INEC to show itself as not demonstrably an arm of the PDP, the only favour it could do to Ebea at this point would be to hold him in contempt — belonging to two political parties at the same time?”

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