THE WEEKEND
1
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Weekend
PUBLISHED SINCE OCTOBER 6, 1990 • Vol.XI NO.3,250• SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014 • N 100.00
As National Confab Ends. . .
Mixed Reactions Trail Resolutions By OSAZUA IVBAZE/RICHARD IMHOAGENE
W
HILE some Nigerians are worried that the resolutions arising from the just concluded National Confab, would, like previous ones, eventually slither into the dustbin of history, others are however encouraged by the fact that the Conference, which brought together Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to deliberate on national issues for five months, has gone a long way to dissipate suspicions and centrifugal sentiments that have been conspiring to confer credibility on US prediction of a breakup of the country in 2015. See details on pg.3.
“Although a lot of issues may have been addressed and recommendations made, many expressed disappointment in the fact that chiefly, it was a case of back to sender. The problems which the President laid on the feet of the conference have been pushed back to him.”
• Cross section of delegates of the just concluded National Conference
CHILD ABUSE
Pgs. 4-6
Street Hawking By Children
IMAGINATION
Animals Celebrate, as Ebola Restrains Humans From Eating Bush Meat
Pg. 13
THE WEEKEND
2
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Ne ws
Oshiomhole Flags Off New 64-Page e-Passport In Edo
GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole has flagged off the new 64-page e-Passport in Edo State, saying the new passport released by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is in tandem with what is obtained in other civilized parts of the world. Speaking at the event at the Offices of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Benin City, yesterday, Oshiomhole also commended the Immigration for their contribution to the maintenance of peace and security in the state. He said, “I had wondered quietly why the passport carries few pages as a result of which you are compelled to have more than one passport. When you have a British passport of ten years, if you are a frequent traveler, within two years, you would have finished the pages of the passport and yet some of the visas are still valid. The result is that most frequent travelers find themselves carrying bundles of passport, the current one and the one that carries your valid visa. “It seems to me that it is only Nigerians that carry more than one passport. Sometimes, I find myself carrying more than one and when they ask me, I say, this one is where the visa is and then this one is the current one. I think for me therefore, your management has responded proactively to something that has been of concern to many people especially those who are frequent travelers and this to me is what leadership is about.” The governor appreciated the President, Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of Interior and the Comptroller-
COREG Meeting Holds Aug 27
General of the Immigration for the wonderful initiative as it is a capital benefit to every person who wants to travel. According to him, “I want to thank the Immigration Service for their role in the maintenance of security in Edo State. Most people identify the Immigration Service only in terms of passport issuance for Nigerians when you are travelling but I know, as a steward in Edo State, that the Immigration Service is also part and parcel of our security service. “At a time when foreigners, some with criminal intentions attempt to freely violate our boundaries and take advantage of our hospitality to perpetrate crime, the Immigration Service has been very helpful at the level of security committee in Edo State. They are making their own contributions to ensure that foreigners with criminal intentions, whether they are insurgents or kidnappers or they are involved in any form of criminalities are identified and proactively dealt with. “I want to assure you that whatever we can do at the level
of our state government to identify with your service, be assured of our willingness to cooperate with you”, he said. Earlier, the Deputy Controller of the Immigration Service, Edo State, Mrs. T. Agwai who stood in for the Comptroller, Mr A.O Alana said it was a major shift in passport technology and first of its kind in Africa, adding that Nigeria was the first to pioneer it in Africa and 50th in the World. She disclosed that it
conforms to the International Civil Aviation Organisation Standard and recognises the holders distinguishing characteristics for easy clearance. She advised that the passport be handled with care because once the chip attached to it is damaged, the authenticity cannot be verified and the passport will be rendered useless. She also said that the cost of the new 64 page e-passport is N20,000.
By RICHARD IMHOAGENE
call during an interview with newsmen in Benin City recently, stating that the availability of jobs will boost the present administration’s transformation agenda. The NGO Boss stated that her organization is focused on enlightening the public on the dangers of child labour and the benefits of education in any society through her “End To Child Hawking” and “Better A Child” projects. She further stated that the organization has empowered several people through human capital building, and has been at the fore front of attending to the aspirations and yearnings of children and members of society. In her words, “we have chosen to stand against child labour, poverty and illiteracy, hunger and starvation, and any form of hard labour which destroys and distorts the perception of the child.” Miss. Ugbekile further expressed the need to create awareness and encourage the youths, who constitute 60 percent of the nation’s work force, to be self employed through the diverse opportunities available. The NGO President has assured Government and members of the public that her organization, True Identity Poverty Alleviation Initiative (TIPAI), will continue to do its part in promoting the wellbeing of the populace, particularly the less
We Are Against Child Labour
PRESIDENT of True Identify Poverty Alleviation Initiative (TIPAI), a nonGovernmental Organization, Miss Precious-Blessing Ugbekile, has urged the Federal Government to provide an enabling environment for job opportunities for youths across the nation. Miss Ugbekile made this
Jesus Breeds Ministries Ordain 28 Members A total of 28 members were last Sunday August 17, 2014 ordained into various offices/ positions at the Jesus Breeds Ministries International Incorporated, Benin City. The ordination was done by the Bishop of the Church, Bishop (Dr) Eddy OmoruyiOkundaye (JP), as part of activities to round-off the week-long 2014 National Convention of the Church with the theme: “seek to Accomplish”. Those ordained include Reverend Julius Imade, Reverend Monday Aigbe, Pastor Imuetinyan Ehighalua; Pastor Theophilus Asuelimen; Pastor Monday Ojo; Pastor Festus Agho; Pastor Patricia Usuanlele and Pastor Augusta Aguebor.
Others are Elder Emmanuel Ehigiamusoe; Elder Isaac Osayande; Elder Fredrick Amayo; and Elder Benjamin Igie. Those for the office of deacon include Deacon Joseph Omoruyi; Deacon Speedy Gbade Omisore; Deacon James Erhabor and Deacon Felix Obaseki. The deaconesses include Deaconess Dora Edionseri, Beatrice Omoigui; Grace E g h a r e v b a ; Giegbefumwen-Omoruyi; Ikuoyemwen; Jane Enobhayisobo; Susan Erhabor and Anna Igbinedion. Others include deaconess Martha Epih; Esther Erhinwingbovo, Lillian Aigbe; Edith Nogheghase Etua and Vero Osarenren.
By GEDU LONGLIFE
THE meeting of the council of registers of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology in Nigeria (COREG) will hold in Auchi Polytechnic on August 27 and 28. The Plenary Session will hold in the New Auditorium at 9.00am on Wednesday August 27, Deans, Directors, and Heads of Departments and Administration units are all invited and are expected to be seated at 9.00am. Dressing is formal.
• Miss Precious-Blessing Ugbekile
– Ugbekile
privileged, by empowering and inspiring them on positive attitudes to help develop and cultivate effectiveness and efficiency in whatever they do. While stating that some beneficiaries of the humanitarian works of the NGO are currently doing well in their vocations and businesses, she called on the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and her state counterpart to support the
Eunice Bello For Burial 30th August
THE Burial ceremony of late Mrs. Eunice Bello has been scheduled to hold on Saturday 30th of August, 2014 at Utesi Village Town Hall at 12noon. The announcement which was made by the families of Idugbe and Bello, stated that the body of the deceased will be moved from the Stella Obasanjo Hospital at 11am to Utesi Village for lying in state and interment. Refreshment will follow at 3pm.
The late Mrs. Eunice Bello who was snatched by the unfair grip of death at the young age of 47 years, was a beloved daughter, a loving wife, a mother and a grandmother. The bereaved family called on loved ones to support them with their presence at the ceremony, even as they pray for her soul to rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord.
Auchi Poly Alerts On Ebola Virus By LAMAI CASSIUS/ OKONYE UCHE
• Bishop Eddy Omoruyi-Okundaye (JP), President of Jesus Breeds Ministries International, Incorporated (left), introducing Rev. (Dr.) Olu Aibinuomo, who was one of the guest speakers during the recently concluded 2014 National Convention of the Church in Benin City
NGO to enable them go on with their activities. She also called on members of the public to be a part of her forthcoming “End of Year Networking Charity Sale,” which is a way to give back to the society. Meanwhile, she has expressed gratitude to Hajia Maina Zainab, Minister for Women Affairs and Mrs. Blessing Maigida, Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs for their positive contributions to youth and women empowerment.
THE management of Auchi Polytechnic has drawn the attention of staff and students of the institution over the outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country. In a circular letter issued by the office of information and Public Relations office, the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) M.I. Aashikpelokhai advised staff and students to note the key points of the EVD which are transmitted to humans from infected bats and monkeys. She said the EVD has become worrisome which needs adequate attention and carefulness in order to
prevent the spread of the disease by maintaining personal hygiene especially washing of hands and avoiding unnecessary hands shake. According to the Registrar, she highlighted some of the areas where one can be mostly infected to include human to human by physical contact with a person who is gravely ill from EVD, undercooked infected bats and primate (bush) meat adding that infected person can incubate the virus for 221 days. Dr. (Mrs.) Aashikpelokhai advised anybody with the signs of the virus to see a doctor immediately.
THE WEEKEND
3
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
e
W ekend Cover As National Confab Ends...
Mixed Reactions Trail Resolutions AS the 2014 National Conference has come to a close, mixed reactions have trailed the resolutions resulting from the five months of deliberations, intrigues, disagreements, counter-disagreements, threats, and near fisticuffs that characterized the talkshop. Led by Justice Idris Katigi, the National Conference, which was inaugurated on March 17, 2014 by President Goodluck Jonathan, was charged with the responsibility of charting a new course and direction for the future of Nigeria. Many Nigerians were quick to condemn the integrity of some delegates selected and the structure of the conference. As the 492 delegates return home, Nigerians have pondered and reacted to some of the major decisions reached by the delegates. One such issue is the removal of the immunity clause for elected public office holders. This is a move that has attracted public support from many Nigerians who believe that when adopted, public office holders who engage in corrupt and criminal practices will face the full weight of the law while still in office. Kingsley Ugagbe, a political analyst, is of the view that politicians and public servants have had a field time for so long, embezzling public funds for personal aggrandizement and as long as they remain in office, it is hard and almost impossible to prosecute them. Speaking further, he said, “if this law had been in place before now, the LawanOtedola case would not have been swept under the carpet the way it was.” The resolution reached by the delegates is that “the immunity clause should be removed if the offences attract criminal charges to encourage accountability by those managing the economy.” The general consensus of the public regarding the creation of 18 additional states with each geo political zone getting three is that it will only lead to more
political tussles and demand, for even more states. However, on the recommendation of an additional state for the south-east geopolitical zone, many Nigerians believe it is necessary to create a balance among all the zones.
By OSAZUA IVBAZE/RICHARD IMHOAGENE
that has rocked the polity for decades is that of Revenue sharing. Again, delegates, even with the intervention of Elder Statesmen failed to reach a viable resolution. They, however, came up
These considerations, agreed upon by delegates after months of debates and adoption of resolutions, are contained in a final report of two volumes containing 528 pages and 906 pages consecutively. While the
mineral resources fund, as well as the special fund for reconstruction and rehabilitation for areas affected by conflicts and insurgency. Even though the conference has come to an end, ethnic sentiments
• Cross section of delegates of the just concluded National Conference
In his opinion, Kadiri Audu, an economist, expressed his disagreement in the recommendation for an additional 18 states in the country. He stated; “If America that has a population of over 300 million people comprises 52 states I see no reason why Nigeria should have 54 states. It will only amount to an unnecessary waste of resources”. Another Nigerian, Osaze Aigbe, a banker stated that “apart from the conflicts that will arise in trying to share the nation’s resources with the newly created states, the move will only give rise to future demands for more states by individuals who want to become governors easily”. As to the issue of reverting to the old National Anthem, many believe it is baseless and unnecessary. One respondent laughed while commenting rather jokingly.” What will happen to my children in school who roam about the house reciting their newly learnt National Anthem.” One controversial issue
with a harmonized position of 18 percent derivation as against the present 13.5 percent for exploration and development of all mineral resources, not solid minerals. Furthermore, the Elder statesmen recommended 5 percent federal revenue for rehabilitation, stabilization of, and construction of areas affected by insurgency in the North East. As part of a consensus, the delegates recommended that communities from which mineral resources are extracted must get 50 percent of money allocated to the state as derivation.
draft constitution is 357 pages, the bill is 47 pages. Although a lot of issues may have been addressed and recommendations made, many expressed disappointment in the fact that chiefly, it was a case of back to sender. The problems which the President laid on the feet of the conference have been pushed back to him. They even recommended that the President set up a technical committee to advise the Federal Government on revenue sharing formula, the percentage of derivation to oil producing states, the
continue to trail the resolutions reached even among the delegates. The Northern delegates led by IGP Ibrahim Coomasie, chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and former Inspector General of Police, kicked against, the “Draft Constitution” produced by the conference describing it as a ploy to introduce the Third Term Agenda. They argue that the Draft Constitution would empower incumbent elected office holders to run in 2015, when ordinarily they are statutes-barred from going for a third term.
“Even if that were to happen, South-South political hawks believe the conference is a failure since it could not grant them resource control which has been the centrepiece of their clamour for true federalism for decades. The same sentiment is shared by South-West and South-East activists whose quest for a return to regionalism was roundly defeated making the northerners who resisted alteration to the status quo the real gainers in the five month-old talk shop.”
The delegates termed it a plot primarily designed to enable President Goodluck Jonathan and other office holders, who allegedly are not qualified, to contest for election. Now that all has been said and done, the major concern of Nigerians is how the resolutions will become part of the Nigerian constitution. The nature of the conference is that its resolutions are still subject to the ratifications of National Assembly. What Nigerians craved was a “sovereign” National Conference – one which would be empowered, requiring a suspension of the constitution so that its decisions and resolutions can be binding on all organs of government Considering the short time before the 2015 General Elections, the legislative and executive processes of passing, vetting and adopting such resolutions before they are signed may require longer time. Also, in the event of a change in government, many fear that a new President may not push it further. As the President has closed the conference on Thursday 21 st of August many Nigerians hope that a referendum be carried out to allow the ordinary Nigerian decide how he wants his future to be. It is also hoped that the Nigerian Government fast tracks the implementation of those resolutions, which have the tendency to turn the fortunes of our nation around. Even if that were to happen, south-south political hawks believe the conference is a failure since it could not grant them resource control which has formed the centre piece of their clamour for true federalism for decades. The same sentiment is shared by South-West and South-East activists whose quest for a return to regionalism was roundly defeated making the northerners who resisted alteration to the status quo the real gainers in the five month-old talk shop. There are those who also feel that the confab has succeeded in renewing our faith in Nigerian project meaning, “It is clear we all want to live together as
THE WEEKEND
4
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
a
S turday Topic: Child Abuse “Before now, parents gave excuses of inability to pay school fees as the reason for the trend. Shockingly, most parents today still justify their actions by blaming poverty, as excuse to neglect their children’s education and turn them into bread-winners at a very tender age. A child is supposed to be in school getting an education to be able to positively affect the society in future.”
Street Hawking By Children THE impatient buzzing horns of speeding motorists cannot deter them; the sound of a beckoning whistle will not go unnoticed as they chase the next customer who, unfortunately, is on a moving commercial bus. Risking their lives, they meander through the busy high-way characterized by impatient bus drivers, some of them drunk, and passers by who hurry about their businesses. This is the life of a child street hawker in Benin who is faced with near-death experiences on a daily basis. Child abuse is a crime globally and has been fought overtime by international bodies such as the United Nations (UN) and the Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Fund (WOTCLEF) for countless decades. This same attention given to child rights and education has been adopted by the Adams Oshiomhole-led Edo State government. The Oshiomhole-led administration has since pronounced a free education system in the state from primary to secondary level to ensure that every Edo child can get
an education at no cost at all. By this, the Governor has warned that no parent has any excuse not to send the child to school, assuring that defaulters will be penalized. The Governor ’s action is a step further in the Universal Basic Education programme to salvage the poor level of education in the state and in Nigeria as a whole. Recent statistics by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural O r g a n i s a t i o n (UNESCO) reveals that 10.5 million Nigerian children are not in school, stating that one out of every five children who should be
By RICHARD IMHOAGENE
in classrooms are out of school. To enforce this action by the state government, officials of War Against Indiscipline (WAI) were empowered to carry out a clamp-down operation in ensuring that the streets of Benin City are free of child hawkers. Obviously, a step in the right direction as it proved effective for some time. However, recent investigations by W E E K E N D OBSERVER has revealed that the eyesore has resurfaced, further posing a threat to the
transformation agenda of the state government, revealing the irresponsibility of some parents in the state. These little children between the age of five and sixteen scuffle for patronage with huge heavy buckets/baskets of goods on their heads regardless of harsh elements of rainfall and extreme sunshine. Before now, parents gave excuses of inability to pay school fees as the reason for the trend. Shockingly, most parents today still justify their actions by blaming poverty, as
excuse to neglect their children’s education and turn them into bread-winners at a very tender age. A child is supposed to be in school getting an education to be able to positively affect the society in future. Emmanuel is one of many children who suffer such fate on a daily basis. “I am an SS2 student of Akenzua Senior Secondary School. I sell pure Water after school hours and during holidays like this,” the young boy said with a wry smile. His torn slippers suggests a pitiless overuse from the hard
foot trekking as he meanders his way around the crowded Lagos Street, a suburb of Oba Market. “I don’t know why I hawk. My mother only sends me here to sell everyday.” The young boy responded. When asked whether he pays school fees, he said “no, we don’t pay any money in my school”. Like many other children, Emmanuel depicts a prevalent feature of street-child hawkers in Benin metropolis, a situation tantamount to child abuse. The parents, who are seldom seen around, simply place a Continued on page 5
THE WEEKEND
5
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
a
S turday Topic: Child Abuse
Street Hawking
“Gone are the days when Edo state used to be a haven of potholes, roofless school buildings and classrooms, highway markets, and where a man’s backyard can suffice as a major road. Benin is no longer ancient, but has transformed into a Mega City that can compete with urban centres across the nation. Such a sight of little children ladened by wares is not befitting of the state’s status.” Continued from page 4
bucket of pure water or any of such other goods on the child’s head and expects a return at the end of the day. Such obnoxious activities evidently have trickle-down effects on the child in particular and the society in general. Apart from the dangers posed on the child by vehicular movement and the activities of evil-intent individuals, the child is denied the right to be educated and developed mentally. Education broadens one’s horizons to countless possibilities and opportunities. A child that is denied
education is denied such opportunities. Furthermore, such exposure of the child to money and the operations of life in the streets can affect the child negatively. There is the possibility of the child getting mixed up with street urchins who engage in illegitimate and criminal activities like thuggery, theft and even armed robbery. The girls among them are in danger of rape, sexual abuse or premature sex habits that can lead to unwanted pregnancy and so on. This can have adverse effects on the society as the child becomes a liability.
A society like Edo State needs men and women with the required mental skills to drive the economy, The pathway blazed by the Governor requires continuity by educated individuals who are exposed to global standards; individuals who are driven by a passion for development in all facets of life, and individuals with a vision moulded by education on whose shoulders the future of Edo State will rest. The importance of child education cannot be downplayed. A child is like a treasure, safeguard him. He is like a tree, nurture him. He is like a garden, prune him into a beautiful landscape that can feed an entire nation in the future. Gone are the days when Edo state used to be a haven of potholes, roofless school buildings and classrooms, highway markets, and where a man’s backyard can suffice as a major road. Benin is no longer ancient, but has transformed into a Mega City that can compete with urban centres across the nation. Such a sight of
little children ladened by wares is not befitting of the state’s status. Those responsible for ensuring the sanity of our streets must do so without fear or
favour. The governor, in his good sense of action, should put WAI on its toes in discharging their duties and clear our streets of child hawkers. Parents
who persist should be tried and prosecuted for crimes against children if Edo State is to meet up with the required global indices for education, as stipulated by UNESCO.
The importance of child education cannot be downplayed. A child is like a treasure, safeguard him. He is like a tree, nurture him. He is like a garden, prune him into a beautiful landscape that can feed an entire nation in the future.
THE WEEKEND
6
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
a
S turday Topic: Child Abuse “Ritualists are everywhere looking for children they could use for their evil acts. Such ritualists can invite these children to a corner pretending to buy something but end up abducting them into a vehicle and taking off to the location of their evil deeds.”
Child Hawker On The Streets EDUCATION is the building block of a nation’s development. It is also the bedrock of a nation’s development, the acquisition of intellectual or moral instruction or skills that will prepare an individual for the future ahead in order for the person to be useful to himself /herself and the society. Children all over the world are referred to as the leaders of tomorrow. That is they are the generation that will take over the mantle of leadership in future and this can only be achieved through meaningful education that is imparted on the lives of this children. According to the fundamental human rights contained in 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, every child has right to qualify education. And it is the primary responsibility of parents to ensure that their children are given the right to quality education. It is as
By GEDU LONGLIFE
a result of the fulfillment of this child rights act that led to the introduction of free education by the government in the public schools in order to make it affordable for every parent. However, it has been observed that some parents have not come to the realisation that their children could be of great help to them if given the proper education they deserve. A visit to the popular Oba market by WEEKEND OBSERVER showed that so many children between the age of twelve and below are found hawking pure water and other kind of things in the major areas within and across the major roads of the market. Emmanuel one of the victims of street trading when asked, could not explain why he sells (hawk) pure water and that his mother just asked him to carry pure water to go and sell in the market.
Furthermore, he told WEEKEND OBSERVER that he does it often that even after school he comes to the market to sell and that his mother also sells things in the market although “she is yet to come”. Another person (child) interviewed by WEEKEND OBSERVER was faith. According to her, her parents are not with her and that she stays with her grand father and she embark on hawking in order for her to pay for her junior WAEC and to also pay for her school fees. Faith said she had to sell pure water because that is the only means of her survival. When asked what she would live to be in future, she said, “I would like to be a millionaire”. These are just to mention but a few and these children are seen running after motion vehicles in order for them
to sell their products. These children are exposed to so many dangers such as stealing that is in a bid to make ends need, when such opportunity of stealing comes, they will jump at it because they want to survive. Ritualists are everywhere looking for children they could use for their evil acts. Such ritualists can invite these children to a corner pretending to buy something but end up abducting them into a vehicle and taking off to the location of their evil deeds. These children are also exposed to danger of untimely death. Imagine a child running after a moving vehicle, the tyre can step on him and he/she can get crushed by other vehicles that may be coming behind. This kind of act is tantamount to child abuse which is punishable under the law. A child who ought to be in school with his peers, getting the right education that his colleagues are
enjoying is seen carrying the responsibility of the parents of trying to provide for the home. It is highly pathetic and wicked on the parts of parents to expose their wards to such dangers in our society. It is in a bid to eradicating street trading that Governor Adams Oshiomhole remove warned that any child caught trading during school hours will be arrested and if the parents of such victims are caught
they will be seriously dealt with and would also be made to pay fine/face the law. It is also as a result of this that the WAI was setup to help checkmate the activities of defaulters of his warning. But unfortunately, the body saddled with the responsibility fighting of this menace in our society has abandoned it thereby allowing it to degenerate to the level it is now and focusing on other minor businesses it wasn’t meant to fight. If this menace is not curtailed now, then there will be no future leaders for our up coming generation because education they say is power. The ability of our future generation to be able to compete favourably with other colleagues from other nations lies solely on the nature of the education they have. It is on this note, therefore that we are calling on relevant agencies to come up with a better plan of totally eradicate street trading by children in our society so that our future can be secured. Parents are also advised to give birth to the number of children they would be able to cater for instead of giving birth to so many children that would be beyond their control. This can be done through the adoption of the family planning method.
“Faith said she had to sell pure water because that is the only means of her survival. When asked what she would like to be in future, she said, “I would like to be a millionaire”.
THE WEEKEND
7
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
e
M trowatch
BEGGARS
Defacing The Beauty Of Kingsquare THE influx of beggars into Benin on the ever busy King Square Road popularly known as ring Road and other parts of the city is rapidly causing a dent and defacing the beauty of the city. The outrageous number of beggars seen in the city is disturbing as they obstruct the free flow of movement on the walkways made for pedestrians which they have converted to their habitation for carrying out their panhandling business for survival. This beggars are seen
causing nuisance to the peace of pedestrians who are in a hurry to go about their daily activities which most times are commercial in nature. It can be said that 70 percent of these beggars are not Nigerians as most of them are illegal immigrants from other neighboruing countries. The porous nature of the Nigerian border has made people from other countries illegally migrate into the country without proper questioning of their motives and reasons to become residents in Nigeria. Majority of these
By OKONYE UCHE/OSAGIE GRACE immigrants migrate as a family in large number from other countries who in search for greener pasture take to panhandling as a means of survival without seeking for jobs to cater for their needs. Majority of them who are not disabled in any form when offered menial jobs decline and rather prefer to beg for alms to survive than work with their hands. Some of the parents send out their children to the streets to beg as they sit and watch them from afar and their wards in return come to give them account from time to time. The state governor in his transformation agenda for Edo State established the War Against Indiscipline (W.A.I) to help sanitize the streets and checkmate indiscipline from residents in the state who consciously or unconsciously break laws and do things that will sabotage the beautification effort of the state government. Unfortunately this body has not taken cognizance of the increasing number of beggars in the city and their
unbecoming activities. Other states like Lagos and most especially Kano have been able to ban begging activities from the state capital. Kano state which is a northern state where begging is condoled and practised has been able to curtail and ban beggars from being seen in the capital city. If Kano a northern state can ban beggars from the capital city from loitering the streets in the city, how much more here in the south, where street begging is not part of our culture. The relevant agencies in Edo State should take measures to curb and eradicate beggars from causing congestion in the city thereby leading to a slow down of movement of people and vehicles, as they go about their commercial activities. The government could come up with a rehabilitation centre for these beggars and train them with skill acquisition to become useful to the economic growth of the state or better still, send them back to their various countries where they come
from. A quick measure to curb and eradicate these beggars from the city would help make the beauty of the city visible to both residents of Benin City and visitors from other parts of the country and foreign visitors. Beggars have existed in human society before the dawn of recorded history. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ made mention of such people. In Buddhism, Monks and Nuns live by begging for alms. In modern times, begging for alms has since taken a new and worrisome dimension as people now board buses from Sokoto, Kastina, Borno, Zamfara and other northern states, to southern parts of the country. most distressing and worrisome are those who migrate from
neighbouring countries like Niger Republic, Chad and such nearby countries to solicit and beg for alms in Nigeria. A visit to Kings Square popularly known as ring Road in Benin City will confirm this. Beggars sprawl from one end of the road to the other chanting, singing, begging and soliciting for money from passers by. These beggars constitute danger to themselves and to the society at large. Some women among them could be raped or sexually abused. Some have been recruited into armed robbery and some other gangs while others could be used for ritual purposes. In this era of security challenges, some could be used for suicide bombings.
Kano state which is a northern state where begging is condoled and practised has been able to curtail and ban beggars from being seen in the capital city.
THE WEEKEND
8
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
e
P rspective Oghuma: The Best Candidate For House Of Rep AS many people are warming up for 2015 election in Etsako federal Constituency to the House of Representatives, the issue of who carries the people mandate becomes very crucial, especially now It will interest readers to know that since the return to democracy in 1999, Etsako Central local government has never produced person to the House of Reps. while other local governments Etsako West and East have had it twice each. Hence, it is the general belief of the people as Alhaji Usman Shagadi a former APC leader who never hide his support for the local government at every fora before he defected to the PDP that it is the turn of Etsako Central to have its fair share in producing a candidate for the House of Representatives in the next election. Having said this, it becomes critical for us to evaluate the effectiveness and readiness of electing the most credible candidate to represent the constituency in the next four years. It is in this regard that we must clear our eyes and do the right thing. Besides, the electorates on their parts need to have the facts and understand the choices facing them in 2015 election. Putting everything in perspectives, the people should without an iota of doubt consider Hon. Johnson Eghwakhide Oghuma, one of the most outstanding Edo State House of Assembly members for the House of Representatives position. He has been tested and is trusted, committed to the cause he believes in and above all, very dedicated and loyal to the party. That is why he is one of the leading factors who say no to those who want to tear the party apart in the state House of Assembly. Now that the initial hurdles are getting cleared, Hon. Oghuma needs this time to fully embark on the part of progressive era that he envisaged for the people in a higher capacity as he has been representing his constituency very well in the state house of Assembly for
the past years. There is no point analyzing his series of achievements since his constituency is satisfied with the level and activities in the house and has decided to project him for a higher level. We ought to help him with the time of accomplishing fully on the dream of reinventing politics by bringing jobs and other developments to the people as he has done in the past years. To keep alive his dream and addressing solutions of improving our educational standard and that of restoring trust and pride of the people, no other candidate has the structures, leadership quality and the wherewithal like Hon Oghuma for the position of House of Representative in the Etsako Federal Constituency. This is not the time for on the job training for any candidate as Hon. Oghuma has learnt the procedures and the rudiments and has legislative experience at the state house of assembly as we have seen him moving and supporting motions/bills that were of benefit to the people in his constituency in particular and in the state in general. It is my passionate appeal therefore to the leaders of the party to consider and support the candidature of Hon. Oghuma as we the people of Etsako Central cannot afford to be supporters of another person for that position aside Hon. Oghuma, now that it is the turn of the local government to produce House of Representatives member in the next election. Hon. Oghuma for House of Representatives will act as a unifying factor in the local government as any attempt to deny the local government the opportunity will make us to vote enmass for opposition party for that same position. Again, by all standards, Hon. Oghuma has demonstrated that he is a leader who shares people’s values and hears their concerns. His activities in EDHA met the difficult challenges facing the state by supporting the developmental motions of the Comrade Governor for the betterment of the citizenry.
By LAMAI CASSIUS
He has remained a steady hand of calm and good judgments with fairness and compassion; actions that make real difference in people’s lives and protect the values we all hold dear in the state. He is a man of perseverance with an inner
as key matrix for electing the next House of Rep. in Etsako federal constituency. Hon. Oghuma again stands above other candidates in the race. He is an embodiment of continuity, stability and the face of change and new direction. Many of us who
shoe pinches the people and is putting smiles on the faces of the people. Besides he is calm, calculative, meticulous and altruistic that even in the face of scores of litigations and smear campaign against him, he is neither deterred nor derailed from pursuing the vision in the best interest of the people and the party.
• Hon. Johnson E. Oghuma strength. We admire his ambition for the local government. We are encouraged by his dream and we believe in his big future, for our dear people. Some have argued in favour of continuity and stability, others prefer change and new direction. Still when these are put together with value, stability and change,
have been watching, listening and evaluating the candidates warming up for the position have come to the honest conclusion that Hon. Oghuma is the best of them all and stands for everything that will make the people better. It is thus in the best interest of the voters to vote for him. As it is, Hon. Oghuma knows where the
“The people need a leader who has legislative experience that can work well and bring development to them and get whatever we need from the center. He is especially good at making right choices with dogged and tough calls whenever the need arises. A man who believes that the ultimate goal of public service is to meet the need of the ordinary people, a man who sees the family as the ultimate legacy, a man who understands that tough times require that we do the right thing for the common good...”
The people need a leader who has legislative experience that can work well and bring development to them and get whatever we need from the center. He is especially good at making right choices with dogged and tough calls whenever the need arises. A man who believes that the ultimate goal of public service is to meet the need of the ordinary people, a man who sees the family as the ultimate legacy, a man who understands that tough times require that we do the right thing for the common good; now therefore, we need to partner with all well-meaning citizens in the area to send Hon. Oghuma to the House of Rep. and there will be no limit to what we can accomplish together. He has learnt a lot,
he has done a lot and he can still do more. We know that Hon. Oghuma is a very nice and engaging person, pleasant, and friendly; a man of sanity with infectious personality and committed to play well his part in reflecting the views of the people in taking on hard issues. I enjoin all to support Hon. Oghuma to actualize his dream because with him, we are on the right path. There are lots of reasons to elect a proven leader and not take a chance on moving backward with newcomers or somebody with questionable character. Hon. Oghuma’s extensive experience in public and private sectors of our economy stands him out above others in the race. He has provided a focused, purposeful, proactive, energetic and above all God fearing leadership; serving the people by effectively and efficiently harnessing the vast resources available and committing same to meaningful growth and development. The people appreciate Hon. Oghuma’s leadership style and need to pay him back by electing him to the House of Representatives in 2015 partly because of his laudable projects initiated and completed they include sinking of bore-holes for communities, provision of transformers to boast electricity in some communities etc. Every available index of assessment points to the fact that Hon Oghuma scored far beyond the benchmark and has performed creditably well to merit the elevation to the national assembly. As it is always said, there is no need to change a winning team when there is opportunity for continuity or elevation and I agree with that, what the leadership of the party needs to do now is to support Hon Johnson Oghuma elevationcontinuity so as to consolidate on his laudable projects he envisioned. We have the responsibility of supporting him wholeheartedly for the House of Representatives. The reality is that Hon Oghuma is the best candidate who will bring innovative leadership, social transformation, economic boom, spiritual growth and the general wellbeing of the people. I however appeal to the other local governments Etsako East and West to support and allow Etsako Central to have this chance as the local government always supported and allowed others have their way in the past as the people will not accept anything less this time around.
THE WEEKEND
9
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
REWARD! “I insisted that he must use condom. He told me that he didn’t like using condom. However, when I insisted, he agreed but he never used it. He removed it while entering into me. We did it several times that night.”
I Contracted HIV Through A Member Of My Church - Joyce By BENJAMIN NJOKIJ HER story runs like a novel, yet it is no fiction. It underscores the saying ‘misfortunes bring out the best in a person.’ For Ghanaian actress cum singer, Joyce Dzidzor Nartey, the unfortunate turn of events in her life marked the ultimate beginning of a new dawn. The 27 yearold mother of two baffled growing up. Her humble background challenged her and she pulled many strings to escape poverty. She was determined to part with poverty. And she felt her skill in dancing could expose her to the entertainment world and possibly to stardom. The fund to pursue university education was not there but she believed in her skills. Although she became vulnerable, exposed to rape and many vices the irony was that she ran to a church where salvation ought to beckon on her
but doom followed. A church member who was expected to preach salvation to her played A Patrick Sawyer to her. Just like the American Liberian who knew he was infected by the Ebora virus but who, full of evil, deliberately arrived Nigeria to spread it, the church member was infected by HIV Virus and he decided to spread among members of the church. And so Ghana’s Dzidzor Nartey contacted HIV in her church but today she is a star in many ways and the virus in her has been contained to the extent that she is living a normal life. She is HIV/AIDS Awareness Ambassador who has travelled to many parts of the world to create awareness on the virus and preach against stigmatisation. She is married and a happy mother.
Joyce is also a backup singer and has backed top Ghanaian musicians in her quest to make a profession. Last year, she delved into movie production to intensify education and to complement the government’s effort to sensitize the public of the dangers of the disease. It is also to strengthen education on pre-marital sex and the dangers involved. The movie titled, ‘My Cross Roads’ featured herself, and top Ghanaian film stars like Ekow Smith Asante, John Dumelo and Vicky Zugah. She also has a new movie in the market titled, “Jewel of the Waters” which she is using to further propagate her campaign against the spread of the HIV virus. Interestingly, for the past seven years, Joyce has been living with the disease and on antiretroviral therapy. She tells her story on DSTV’s Africa Magic channel. Living With HIV Virus
• Joyce Dzidzor Nartey I have lived with HIV/ AIDS virus for seven years now. I contacted the disease in 2007. But I’m just a normal person. When people meet me and tend to find out how I’m feeling, I always tell them I’m a normal person. As a matter of fact, I visited a school to educate the students. After talking to them they were keen to test for HIV also joined the queue and got tested but it was negative. It means one must stay with one’s medication forever. Regular medication can make it read that way. It doesn’t mean such a person is no longer a career. How she contacted the disease
I contacted the disease in 2007, through a member of my church. I was to spend a night with him in his house. When he removed his clothes, I saw, some kind of rashes all over his body. I was terrified, as I innocently asked him why he was like that. He covered up, saying it was a minor skin infection and that it was nothing serious. But when he wanted to make love to me, I insisted that he must use condom. He told me that he didn’t like using condom. However, when I insisted, he agreed but he never used it. He removed it while entering into me. We did it several times that night. After few weeks, I became pregnant for him, when I told him, I was pregnant,
he advised me to abort the baby. But I refused, insisting on keeping the baby He later warned me that if insisted, I would have myself to blame in future. I never knew what he meant until I was diagnosed HIV positive. He also infected other ladies in the church before he died. Growing up Growing up was in a very poor background. I discovered my love for music and dance. I was very ambitious, passionate about my dance skills. All efforts to get help to go to school failed. I was vulnerable, most times raped. I had to attend all kinds of events in my neighbourhood to exhibit my skills in dancing. • Culled from VANGUARD
THE WEEKEND
10
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
e
S curity
• Courtesy: VANGUARD
Over 130 Days After
Lest We Forget Our Chibok Girls
THE Ebola virus seems to be forming the major part of public discourse in recent times, with a new case reported almost daily since August 4. In all this time, little or no attention has been given to the over 200 secondary school girls adopted over four months ago by the notorious Boko Haram Terrorists. One cannot easily fathom or begin to imagine the horrors, abuse and agony endured by these young teenagers since then. Their families, grieved in despair and anguish, seem hopeless and helpless against a heartless group of misguided murderers. When will the said rescue come? Not much information is available, except for the testimonies of the 57 girls who have escaped so far and the video released by the sect’s leader Abubaker Shekau, displaying the girls dressed in Hijab, threatening to sell them because “Allah commands him to sell”. This senseless act of inhumanity troubled the consciences of
millions around the world who have engaged in rallies and protects of different forms. The recent method by the sect in the use of female suicide bombers has created even greater concerns among Nigerians. Many have refused to accept a frightening possibility that the sect may have indoctrinated their innocent captives with radical ideologies and transformed them into “teen terrorists”. The thought is disheartening to say the least, and further emphasizes the monstrosity and viciousness of this dare-devil sect called Boko Haram. President Jonathan has continued to assure Nigerians of his commitment towards the rescue of the girls. A commitment he has shown quite disgracefully. It took our President over 100 days to finally meet with aggrieved parents of the girls-not at Borno State, but in the comfort of his
By RICHARD IMHOAGENE
presidential villa. The international community was also finally allowed to intervene several weeks after the adoption. Our President, who himself did not act until more than a week after, was busy politicizing the unfortunate incident refusing to believe an obvious truth. The first lady, his loving wife, Patience Jonathan added to this national embarrassment with the famous “There is God” meeting. The President, our military chiefs, and the InspectorGeneral of Police have continued to declare rather ironically that “they are on top of the situation”. Many Nigerians have cried out saying they’ve heard that cliché for too long. Perhaps, its high time they left the “top” and got “into” the situation. The Boko Haram fight is no joke. The United States Government has ranked the
sect the biggest and deadliest cell of Al-Qaeda. The fight is now one against an international group, one the President believes is fuelled by politicians and individuals who want to make the country ungovernable for him. He has neither showed the sincerity nor the political will to fish out and deal decisively with the said individuals. Blame game and politicization have continued to trail the existence and operation of the sect at the expense of those currently making their beds within the death zone of Sambisa Forest. A time should come when the ruling class will tackle issues for what they are, and not manipulate facts to score cheap political points, especially not when the lives of innocent Nigerians are at stake. My detestation and frustration over the way and manner Nigerians handle
sensitive issues would’ve led me into deviating from the point that needs addressing. Again, we are faced with a deadly problem. The Ebola virus. Undoubtedly, the most fatal in recent history. Public panic and government attention has shifted to this newfound enemy, but while at it, should we forget our Chibok girls? It is now over four months since they were adopted. The only offence they committed is seeking an education. Four months without parents, siblings or friends, without proper food or a clean bath. It is now four months of suspected sexual abuse and assaults, and possibly forced marriage, because it is obvious that these extremists no longer want to wait to get to heaven before they claim their virgins”. It is important to try and feel what they feel. It is certain that we need to be ready for re-orientation in the event of their rescue, because of the false
religious orientation they may have been fed with. We must also be able to deal with the trauma of such a painful experience. The President’s intention to secure a $1 billion loan is a matter for another discussion. Public reaction trailing this move has suggested that it is a wasteful attempt to indebt the nation, as monies already allocated to the military for this fight have not been judiciously utilized. There are allegations that a large chunk of these allocations are siphoned by Military heads who enjoy exquisite dinners in Maitama and choice residents in Abuja while our foot soldiers battle with empty bellies against beasts. Even as we pray for providence to smile on us, let us not forget, in our Ebola panic, the travails of our teenagers, girls of between ages 14 and 18, who still lie captive to the wicked hold of a group that is sworn to wipe out the peace in the north, and Nigeria as a nation.
THE WEEKEND
11
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
RUMINATION “To redeem man from this calamity, Jesus Christ came into the light to give light to mankind. He had his disciples to work with him. He knew, they could not work satisfactorily without the direct power to counter the power of the rulers of darkness in high places…”
deflated them to the point of ridicule in the eyes of man and God. To redeem man from this calamity, Jesus Christ came into the light to give light to mankind. He had his disciples to work with him. He knew, they could not work satisfactorily without the direct power to counter the power of the rulers of darkness in high places… in Luke 24:49. He instructed them “tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from high”. In obedience, they
With
Ernest Ikhureigbe It is important to remind you that as long as you choose to be in the ministry of God, with the intention and auction of God to give glory to him, you cannot be disappointed. You, would, however, be subjected to avoidable trials and challenges that could derail you if your action is not triggered by faith in the Lord. The Bible records that David, the son of Jesse was
This anointing gave him resources unknown to others. Eliab his brother saw him as busy a body, who had abandoned his proper duties but David saw it as challenge to showcase God’s glory. We must be reminded that God does not discriminate but he knows the extent of your ability in his ministry. The Bible recorded that Prophet Samuel was used by
God Chooses Those To Work With
ALL humans are created by God for a purpose and everyone has a role to play in the scheme of life. It is recorded that all that God created in the beginning were confirmed very good. Gen 1:31 “God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good”. One could then ask, why the present change in man, who was specially created in the likeness of God to dominate and supervise other created creatures upon the earth Gen 1: 26-
30.” Man, on his own allowed himself to be grafted by greed, self-centeredness and craze of inordinate ambition. Gen 3:4-6. It might interest you to note that God could deliberately allow the ones he chose to carry out the assignment, even when the assignee is gong contrary to his instructions. He does so for you and I to know that there is always punishment and rewards for disobedience and obedience. God does not make any
mistake even if the one assigned goes into error in the cause of executing the assignment. Adam and Eve were confined to the garden Eden, where nothing was lacking and they were instructed on what to do at all times to remain safe and secure in the opulent garden of life. Adam and Eve could be said to have been created and chosen by God but failed to honour him. They were not given a second chance because the enemy of mankind had exploited and
waited and power actually came upon them and these were manifestation of wonderful evidences upon them and the on lookers present at that time. Act 2:15. Beloved, the Holy Book is replete with the good news from these men of God and the healing wrought through them. It is heard and seen today that there are also men of God, through the power of the Holy Ghost are showcasing the power of God in the lives of people.
a man after the heart of God, who did his will and was also repentant at any time he did wrong. Before he met Goliath, who had intimidated the Israelites and blasphemed God. He was already anointed but not a professional in battle and yet he challenged Goliath, who was prepared and equipped for any battle against him and his people. Anointing gives great boldness, making people fearless. No wonder, he believed in God and saw the Philistine as a mid get.
the lord and it was at his own time that Israel demanded for a king when the centre could no longer hold with his children. Saul was chosen but he failed to honour God’s instruction which led to the choice of David. Finally and very important is that nobody can disappoint God rather we should endeavour to honour the clarion call to service if one desires his presence in one’s life. Anyone, who chooses to disregard His instructions risks being confined to the history of irrelevance. Remain blessed.
Let’s Do Away With Bats At The Kingsquare - Ekaiwe Osemuekhai IN view of Ebola outbreak in some parts of Africa it has become imperative to examine the role of bats in Benin kingdom. The numerical strength of bats in Benin City is assuming a bizarre dimension as they have destroyed nearly all the trees in Kings Square. It has been revealed by the Federal Ministry of Heatlh that bats and monkeys constitute major vehicles for driving the dreaded Ebola virus, which has no known cure. Bats can travel several kilometres at Night in search of fruits and insects. In Benin tradition and custom Bat are very often associated with witches and warlock despite the fact that to so many other people in the neighbourhood it is a culinary delight for the down trodden masses who see it as a good source of animal protein. There are some times mistaken for
birds because they posses wings attached mainly to their arms and hands extending along its side from the hind feet to the tail. Bats have tender furry body and membranous wings. As a nocturnal animal it is very active at night. They fly by swinging, forward and scooping air backwards. There are several species of bats throughout the universe. Some of them feed on fruits while others feed on insects. Fruits eating bats are gifted with good eye sight while the insects eater are said to have poor sight, yet they can find their way when in search of food. The bat lets out series of extremely high-pitched squeaks and listens for the echoes bounced back by object in its path. In day time when they are less active they usually spend time hanging upside down in trees, caves or building, defecating from
their mouth as could be observed in Oba’s Palace, Benin City. The vampire bat feed on insects and animal blood. It could also feed on human blood if it has asses to people. Bats could be considered as endangered species of wild life due to annihilation by bush burning and the destruction of their natural habitats by human beings. Bats reproduction is limited to one issue annually and in most cases they don’t produce at all. For this primary reason they dearly hook up to their young ones. Most scientist love these flying creatures because of their ability to utilize echolocation to locate their habitats for finding food despite their poor eyesight. In order to prevent an Ebola outbreak in Benin and its neighbourhood, all hands must be on deck in chasing out the bats at Kings Square.
The Federal Ministry of Health has warned that over (800) eight hundred cities had been annihilated in some parts of West African sub-region. This warning is very timely as
bats can travel across many countries in one night, it is a potential instrument for driving this deadly virus. Some individual who had resulted to self-
medication by consuming excess salt with the hope of wading off the disease should desist from this act as it has already killed several people.
THE WEEKEND
12
m
I
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
agination
“These are rainy days for Nigerian hunters. While humans mourn these terrible times, animals are expected to jubilate, but that is if they had 10 percent of man’s intelligence. Their cognition is perhaps too crude to fathom the times and seasons. They would’ve known that hunters are “sheathing” their guns and blades, and so they and their kinds can live beyond their prior determined life expectancy.”
Animals ‘Celebrate’ - as Ebola Restrains Humans From Eating Bush Meat
NIGERIA’S latest enemy, the Ebola virus, has not only come to kill and to steal our loved ones, but to destroy our eating culture. The first time news of Ebola came to me, the first warning I got was “stay away from bushmeat.” Before long, that personal warning from a telephone call had become a national orientation. Today, the fear of bushmeat is the beginning of wisdom. Stop for a bit and ponder on these figments of imagination… there’s Joy galore in the Animal kingdom. The biggest party the world has ever seen. The flora is as green as ever, bursting with celebration.
Sweet fresh coconut juice can pass for Champaign; hummingbirds and chestbeating chimps can provider good music, and yes, the celebration can begin. Lest I forget, the Monkey, Bush Pig and fruit Bat are the chief celebrants. These can become fragments of reality only if they knew the liberty they are beginning to enjoy. Since creation, man has hunted the animal for food, diary, and clothing. It has been that way from
By RICHARD IMHOAGENE/LONGLIFE GEDU
generation to generation. The continuous exploitation of the wild has continually triggered protests and agitations from zoologists and conservationists who seek to protect animal species from extinction”. Apart from deforestation, a product of urbanization, hunting is the single major enemy of the wild posing serious threat to animal existence. In societies like Nigeria where the bushmeat
market is serious business and where there are no legislations prohibiting such animal exploitation, hunters have had a good time over the years extolling bushmeat consumption to the status of “luxury.” An average sized Rabbit before now cost as high as N1, 500 (one thousand, five hundred naira). All that has changed today. It is surprising to know that there can ever be
a time when the Ijaw man can eat Kpukpuru and black soup without bush meat. People no longer eat bushmeat for fear of Ebola. In fact, the bush meat industry has been sickened by the infectious Ebola virus. Investigations have revealed that a full-sized grass cutter now sell for as low as N400 (four hundred naira) due to lack of patronage. Health experts and scientists have provided a list of major hosts and possible carriers of the virus
including monkeys, pigs and fruit bats, but Nigerians, true to their hyper-sensitive and “false-alarmy’ character, have chosen to desist from the consumption of any kind of bushmeat. Even the innocent bush rabbit has been labeled “Ebolized” by Nigerians. These are rainy days for Nigerian hunters. While humans mourn these terrible times, animals are expected to jubilate, but that is if they had 10 percent of man’s intelligence. Their cognition is perhaps too crude to fathom the times and seasons. They would’ve known that hunters are Continued on page 13
THE WEEKEND
13
m
I
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
agination
“Over time, man has continued to give up certain pleasures for fear of death. Bird flu said we should not eat chicken, Lassa fever had once told us to stay away from bush rats. Remember HIV/AIDS keep reminding us to abstain from sex, even as cancer tells us continually to avoid the momentary and transient pleasures of alcohol, smoking, and certain foods – and we seem to obey. Indeed, nobody wants to die but we all want to get to heaven.”
Animals Celebrate
Continued from page 12
“sheathing” their guns and blades, and so they and their kinds can live beyond their prior determined life expectancy. Wait a minute! This may also mean an explosion in animal population. While human population sadly continues to decrease, animals are increasing in number daily. Again, if they (animals) were half as intelligent as humans, they’ll probably plot a vengeance against the human race for the holocaust we have carried out against them all these years. At this rate, they’ll probably just be plenty more to kill when we must have conquered Ebola. Even Suya sellers are not left out of this misery as they carry their faces about, despair written all over them. The few individuals who still patronize them do so after conducting UTME examination on the poor illiterate seller. They ask questions like “what animal is this?” what part of the animal is this, and where did you buy this meat? “They even go as far as examining the meat itself. “Over time, man has continued to give up certain
pleasures for fear of death. Bird flu said we should not eat chicken, Lassa fever had once told us to stay away from bush rats. Remember HIV/AIDS keep reminding us to abstain from sex, even as cancer tells us continually to avoid the momentary and transient pleasures of alcohol, smoking, and certain foods – and we seem
to obey. Indeed, nobody wants to die but we all want to get to heaven. The dreaded and most deadly disease which rocked the country on July 25th, 2014 called Ebola has been recorded as the most dangerous disease that has ever invaded the human race. This disease since its arrival has disrupted so many activities in the country, causing death and also creating enmity between friends and associates. The deadly disease, Ebola now sets the pace for humans as to how they should interact with one another, the mode of interaction and the kind of food they should eat and the kind of animal they should buy for consumption. Before the invasion of Ebola, there was the existence of HIV/AIDS but yet this did not keep a communication gap
between humans because people who had the disease still lived among their peers, exchanging handshake pleasantries, eating together and so on as long as they lived. Man is now told not to exchange hand shake during pleasantries and thereby making the Christian faithfuls to almost doubt God as if His words are not true by embarking on a precautionary method of discouraging handshakes in the church which also prompted the outsiders to adopt same. Aside the exchange of handshake, Ebola has also restricted man from eating bush meat because they were said to be the carriers of the virus. People who ordinarily could not do without eating bushmeats have abandoned the meat for fear of contracting the deadly virus.
God the Creator of all things in the beginning gave man the freedom to eat everything in the garden of Eden including the animals except for one particular fruit. But unfortunately this aspect of the word of God is almost defeated due to Ebola. Majority of Nigerian fore fathers were hunters whose primary aim was hunting animals for the consumption of man. It also served as a source of income for them even before now. But as it is now, hunters can no longer hunt for animals because people have been discouraged from eating animals in order not to contract the dreaded disease, which on the other hand has rendered them (hunters) jobless. However, there is call for celebration in the animal kingdom due to the fact that hunters may no longer hunt for them and so there is what I call “the independence of the animal kingdom”. Because they are now free to move wherever they want. As a matter of fact if an animal is found coming form the forest to pass through a location where
there is crowd of people, there is the tendency that people will run away to allow it pass instead of death penalty that would have been metted on it. There will also be increase in population in the animal kingdom or population explosion because animals which ordinarily would have been killed by hunters can now stay for as long as they can and also give birth to their young ones. One major hazard of this animal population explosion is the fact that there will be low farm productivity because these animals will invade farmland to feed on the crops/vegetables that have been planted by farmers causing low productivity in the agricultural sector. There is also likelihood that these animals would also have their chances of invading our villages and cities in search of food. Therefore, there is joy in the animal kingdom because they have just been given independence since the creation of the world to live and not to die any more in the hands of man who has been its greatest enemy.
THE WEEKEND
14
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
i As Boko Haram Takes Over The North
V ewpoint PEOPLE usually carelessly refer to a “northern leadership,” like such body exists. A certain spook body that sets itself up and positions itself to procure certain advantage for its people. A so-called northern leadership that ensured northerners led Nigeria for about 60% of its life-span; and that this leadership hold was for their advantage, in the north that is. Today as Boko Haram again seizes a huge chunk of the north and displaces thousands more farmers, the north’s only source of income, I am tempted to ask – what northern leadership? Boko Haram has been comfortably sitting on Damboa and territories surrounding, and today they came out again with Nigerian army tanks, APC’s and hilux trucks and took over Gwoza, killing or
otherwise disappearing the emir as the nation’s military men-on-show, stepped back and withdrew to their advance. We have not heard a sound from that northern leadership as a deadly menacing army is being empowered and enabled to soon conquer their north. Northern leadership? Boko Haram killed the former emir of Gwoza. Where was that so-called northern leadership to ensure his killers were brought to justice? We didn’t hear a sound. Where is the northern elders urgent summit on the terror situation affecting the north and the deliberate resolutions to take over the security of their dying people and territory? Are the so-called northern leaders waiting and looking for dancing-Jonathan who has done nothing toward safe-guarding the life of
KOME zurfin ruwa, da yashi a ciki. However deep the water, there’s always sand in it. Ba a hada gudu da susar katara It is impossible to race more than your speed This is my final take in a three-part series treaty to my beloved North. With the title of this last take, I know that I would have courted the anger of many of us “Arewa blood”, I however pray that my opinion will be taken for what it is, an admonition from a son who hurts that his father has ruined his future. Before I go far, I would tell us about two Northern sons, and trust me, there are thousands of them, in fact tens of thousands of them. Baba Adam, born in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria on March 3, 1958. He
attended Abba Ganaram Primary School, Maiduguri and Yerwa Government Secondary School Maiduguri. Dr. Adam graduated with Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture (1987); Master of Science degree (1990) and Doctorate degree (1995) in Agricultural Education from Oklahoma State University, Stillwater Oklahoma. While at Los Angeles, Dr. Adam was the highestranking black/African American male in the Los Angeles Community College District [LACCD] system. The district consisted of 9 colleges and has over 150,000 students; 5,000 staff and faculty and annual budget of over half a billion dollars. Also in addition the district has an on-going construction of over 2 billion dollars funded through bond. Then, there is Jelani Aliyu,
their citizens in 5 years sofar, except systematically transfer ammunitions and vehicles of the Nigerian army to the terrorists; to suddenly turn a new leaf and help them address the crisis in their ward? The instance ISIS began its reign of terror in Iraq,
within the first week, the religious leadership in Iraq called for the arming of civilians, to volunteer to fight. 1.5 million Civilians answered the call, and these men have been the critical resistance that prevented a globally armed
and trained anti-Syria ISIS militia from conquering the entire Iraq. Where is such a call from the so-called northern leadership? What have they done and decided must be done in the reality of the worst terror situation in the world today
at home in their region in Nigeria? I see a vacuum in the north. Some young, dynamic Northern or northbased men need to step-up and fill this vacuum, because if not, Boko Haram will continue gleefully occupying it.
Is The North Dying? By PRINCE CHARLES DICKSON
from Sokoto State, he is US auto giant General Motors Senior Creative Designer. He designed the world acclaimed Chevy Volt, which has been described as an American Revolution and a hot concept in automobile design line. In a Company release on the car, this was what was said, “GM`s most electrifying advanced technology vehicle is the Chevrolet Volt concept, a battery-powered, extended-range electric passenger vehicle.” It is from this point that I continue my admonishment, in recent visits to Borno, Yobe and parts of Adamawa, I do not need a soothsayer to tell me that my beloved Arewa is
dead! Killed by arewa, not Jonathan, Asari, or Clark, not even by Boko Haram, but killed by us, killed in the most brutal manner by our very own. For all the noise that the political class makes, for all the billions that we have received from the federation, our schools are dead, and suffice to say on intent. We have allowed our talents and gifts lay waste, gifted kids litter the streets of Rukuba in Jos, Angwar Rimi in Kaduna… From old Sokoto which includes Kebbi, and Zamfara, how many Universities do we have, between old Kano that includes Jigawa, do we have any world class health facility, in old Kaduna, that includes Katsina, all the textile companies are dead, factories closed. And before I hear it is the same story elsewhere in Nigeria, I dare say not true, the North has murdered its own sleep and indeed is paying and sadly we are not even on track to revival because we are yet to realize that lying waste are millions of Baba Adam, and Aliyu from Bauchi, to Plateau, Benue to Niger. Kifi a ruwa sarki ne is an old saying, Nigeria may not be totally working, but a fish is a king in the water, a man can do what he likes in his own
house, other parts of Nigeria is doing better than the North and painfully it is the truth, their leaders are stealing even worse but Universities are scattered all over the place, they are building hospitals, go to Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Rivers, and do a comparative without all the crakum-crinkum of APC vs PDP politics, and see how far the North is behind. Today, I challenge us, arewans to tell me, where is that great city in the north, Kada city, once the mighty ‘garin governor’ is lost, Kano is battling to regain lost glory. The North is no longer thinking, our sons and daughters are scattered all over the world, with potential to make a difference, but like the Nigerian story, our leadership circle is made up of mediocrity. Aliyu grew up in Sokoto, in the northern part of the country. His parents came from Dogondaji, which is a town about an hour southwest of Sokoto. He studied Architecture, the closest thing to it in Nigeria, at the Birnin Kebbi Polytechnic. He went ahead to attend the College for creative Studies in Detroit studying Transportation Design. Got a job with General Motors, worked at the GM Tech Center for about three years and then went on international assignment to
Germany for about two years at Opel. Like Baba Adam, he needed no godfather, mother or some emir to help facilitate, all we need to resurrect the North is a dream, a great vision, not on a fixation of derivation formula, not on how the south has cheated us, forgetting that we cheated them also… Not on creating more states, or having more seats at the National Assembly, not on more local governments, because as has been shown, having the Chief of security, or Judiciary has not given us security or peace and justice. Today, it may not be as bad as painted because I am still a son of the North, but it is really very bad, permit me say it is terrible. There is no state but one that is self sustainable if not for oil money, yet the entire North sits on a goldmine of resources both human and natural. We need to interrogate our leadership, which schools do our governors’ children go to, where do they do their holidays, which Arewa governor would go to Yankare Games for his next leave, before we ask Jonathan to go to Chibok, can we Arewa storm Chibok in solidarity, — It is impossible to race more than your speed, will the North resurrect or do we just conclude the requiem mass— Only time will tell Yours In High Regards.
THE WEEKEND
15
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Weekend
“The British had constructed the internal boundaries of the federation around the country’s three principal rival cultural segments, and in the process denied the ethnic minority communities the security of their own constituent states or regions...”
DISCOURSE plunged the country into Nigeria allowed itself to become the object of ridicule of the world. the world media have focused on this most popular, most populous and Africa’s largest economy in a most unprecedentedly negative manner in recent years. it is a case of the adage that says those who live in a glass house should not throw stone. the only news that comes out of Nigeria are the sour grapes news that could be: an MP swindles billions of dollars; ten billions laundered by an MP; oil money meant for the federation account vanished: pensioners have not been paid for 5years: Lagos airport blacked out; malaria kills thousands every year: it took 5days to travel from Lagos to Benin (375kilo road); robbers killed ten in highway blockade; Benin-
Nigeria In Crisis:
mp signs 200million naira cheque for a whore: Abuja prostitutes seeks an mp for relationship; an expatriate killed in Benin as he was at work: Boko Haram raided north eastern Nigeria , 120 more people taken in Maidiguri by Boko harem, bomb blast in Kano; 90 killed in Abuja; the work of Boko Haram; Boko Haram vowed to make Nigeria ungovernable. these are ammunitions for the world media to twist and manipulate a country that is already seen as a world problem. one only needs to tune to Aljazeera, CNN, BBC, RN, ABN, VOA, NTA or ITV (Nigeria) to see how Nigeria is being bashed and viewed with disdain. Now the critical problem is Boko Haram, and the intended creation of additional 13 or more states in Nigeria. I honestly believe it is high time we stopped playing political ballgame with Nigeria. We all know that the cankerworms of the country and the misters fix it would want to have by all means what they could not get out of the present
State Creation Not The Answer
THE crises Nigeria is embroiled did not start today, in fact it is a colonial epilepsy that is almost impossible to cure. The importance of European colonialism is that, it was more than anything else the means by which political order was created. In the process, societies with their own internal structures and dynamics became linked with and subordinated to a set of global
By IMUETINYAN UGIAGBE
interactions, and institutions with a dynamic of its own. Nigeria political order is not only frictional but amusing and in recent years Nigeria has been credited with and described variously by many authors and researchers as Africa’s most consistently federal polity. At the same time the country’s system of
federalism has been characterised variously as ‘peculiar ’ bizarre’,‘ irregular’, ‘misleading’,’ distributive’, or’ failed’, and as representing a ‘hollow federation’ or ‘a unitary state in federal guise’. The British had constructed the internal boundaries of the federation around the country’s three principal rival cultural segments,
and in the process denied the ethnic minority communities the security of their own constituent states or regions and provided for just three, later four in 1963 units in the federation, the federal system of the first republic served not to moderate but to exacerbate ethnic and regional conflicts. Instead of rising to the challenges which the British debacle, whether knowingly or unknowingly
ore road was a no go because of senior boys: the president is about to add more personal jets to his fleet; mps award 500% pay rise to themselves: Nigeria 419ners invade Europe and the world; robbers raid Lagos and killed many; 100 million people face starvation in Nigeria: Abuja houses have soared to 1billion dollar per a house: an mp was found dead in hotel: an
system, for their sons, daughters or sons and daughters in-laws, such as becoming a governor of a present state, or even themselves becoming one. They are adroitly involved in an unscrupulous and selfish but destructive move to create more states in the country. Many people in the country would definitely want this to Continued from page 16
THE WEEKEND
16
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
D scourse
i
...State Creati
• Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
happen because this is the problem with Nigerians, everyone acting for their own selfish interest and not for the interest of national unity. Instead of sitting tight to making the present system work, the MPs in their self-deluding lexicon and the expected lucre that goes with a newly created state are noisily debating and recommending for another thirteen states creation in the country. I am not going to be involved with the development falcon which this might be expected to facilitate for Nigeria because to me and to most rational Nigerians the benefit is negligible if there is any because the problems
associated with more states creation in Nigeria outwit the benefits. Nigeria in 1976 had 301 local governments, reinstated in1984, to 449, in 1989, 589, in 1991, and 774 in 1996 till today. These reorganisations were ostensibly designed to respond to local agitation for political and economic decentralisation, which pressures were largely fuelled by the considerable official reliance on the principle of inter-unit equality as the basis for devolution of central revenues and related development patronage. However, only the military has been able to create more states in Nigeria because the Constitution is blissfully rigid enough in this area, to allow the
whims and caprices of the so called legislators’ greedy intent to prevail. The Nigerian Constitution of 1979 taken verbatim of1999 Sect 8, says a state can only be created if two thirds of the both upper and lower houses vote for it and must also be put to vote in each of the state in the federation and two thirds majority must also be in favour. I am sure if the rule of the constitution was followed, the recommendation would only be a mere puff like their predecessors’ civil government of the past. Although nothing is impossible in Nigeria, it is a country where the custodians of the nation openly flaunt and violate the constitution. At the moment many states
cannot stand on their feet but ever waiting for the Monthly hands out from the Federation Account, without which they will perish in abject poverty. If more states are created, there would have to be a boundary adjustment, redrawing of the country’s terrain to give recognition to the new states and above all the sharing of the oil revenue will have to be re–evaluated to take account of the new states. At the moment, especially in the far northern Nigeria, their fiscal capacity is questionable. Many states will be poorer and we should expect more Boko Harams and disruptions for Nigeria if the creation of more states goes ahead. Definitely there is no doubt that the move to create new states would gladden some ethnic groups in the name of development, but believe you me; it would only serve as an avenue for corrupt practices and corruption, and if you like divide Nigeria along the tongue speaking language, meaning having more than a thousand states, people will still clamour for states creation. This is the only area the colonial ogre, though they don’t deserve a thanks, you had to draw a line, when they carried out their selfish boundary adjustment and regional amalgamation. When will the demands and creation of states stop? The federal government needs to be
“... there is no doubt that the move to create new states would gladden some ethnic groups in the name of development, but believe you me; it would only serve as an avenue for corrupt practices and corruption, and if you like divide Nigeria along the tongue speaking language, meaning having more than a thousand states, people will still clamour for states creation.”
scrupulous and learn to act adroitly when such demands are made. In a recent interview with some Nigerian MPs on revenue sharing (Ugiagbe, 2013) shows that Nigeria is not at peace with itself. Some of the phrases used by some of the MPs are ‘those that claim ownership of the country’: ‘the ox that muzzles the corn,’ ‘federalism in unitary gap,’ ‘the so called oil producing states,’ ‘what are they doing with the money they are being paid in derivation’, those that are in bed with the government’: Scrap derivation, only favours oil producing states’: Southern MPs are too corrupt’: If the federal government daftly went ahead to create additional states they would only compound this hidden volatile problem which the MPs unleashed with anger during the interviewing process. The issue at stake at the moment is how to curtail Boko Haram and if possible how to obliterate them and their sympathisers from the face of the earth. We can see that rather than moving forward for the better we are backsliding. There is nothing bad in creating more states for a stable country, but Nigeria is already on fire and it has been on fire for so long. Are we so opaque that it is beyond our eyes sight? Even if this was the case, have we also lost our other senses of feeling? I retain my own if the echelons of the country have lost theirs. It is a fact that the administrative structure established to run Nigeria’s territory in preindependence Nigeria was necessarily both centralised and authoritarian. These rules have emerged as the key to the structure of Nigeria politics. What I think distinguishes Nigeria
from its equivalent in ot parts of the world is combination of its pow and its frugality in disco disunity, and relig bigotry, patron cli relationship and m especially corruption. T combinations of power a fragility, with a c c o m p a n y i disjunctions between state and shared set social values, in the t account for almost ev distinctive aspect Nigeria politics. There four pressing issues, wh need to be particula addressed. They are issues of governan security, corruption a feudalism and not creat of more states. The truth is that Nige does not funct according to classic mo of the nation state in wh the constitutional struct is ultimately upheld b sense of national s identity! Weber identif four types of author Rational legal author charisma, patrimonial a neo-patrimonial. They all brainchild of Nigeria one point or another of existence. On governan the organisation a legitimacy of Nigeria res principle of what We described as rational le authority. The problem Nigeria is its failure in m cases even to approxim to rational- legal mode operation. One leve which this is obvious evident is the form constitution of the coun which should in princip provides the ultimate le framework through wh the rational-le behaviour is defined. T charismatic ille government of Abacha a Babanginda bree nothing but suffering a corrupt practices for country, a legacy whic continuing today. T second and third area concern to be addresse corruption and go governance. Go governance could be opposite of corruption any system government. It stands democracy, corrupt f
THE WEEKEND
17
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
i
D scourse
ion Not The Answer
ther the wer ord, ion ent ost The and its n g the t of turn very of are hich arly the ce, and tion
eria ion odel hich ture y a elffied rity: rity, and are a at f its nce, and st in ber egal m of most mate e of l in s or mal ntry, ple, egal hich gal The gal and eds and the h is The a of ed is ood ood the n in of for ree
society, transparency, freedom of speech, accountability, orderly, and security both safety and welfare. Nigeria for now is devoid of good governance as evidence on ground has shown. The issue of corrupt practices and corruption in Nigeria has possibly led to all the grievances that are now giving birth to all sorts of ills and vile in the country. Corruption in its simplest form is the use of public powers in order to achieve private goals. An extension of it could be entrenched throughout the society and it touches on every level of society, from people holding public offices to the behaviour of ordinary citizenry, amounting in extreme cases to a system of government for purposes of personal achievement, which has been described as ‘kleptocracy’ or rule by theft. However corruption provides the most striking indication of the failure to link society and government in a shared sense of value in modern Nigeria. The last but not the least problem is feudalism. The harmonious relationship that was once enjoyed in a patrimonial system by master and servant has been eroded by the greed of corrupt practices and corruption that has visited the system and in Northern Nigeria, especially in the far North, both primordial and neo patrimonialism can be identified. However in Southern Nigeria Neo patrimonial can also be identified. They are particularly obvious in the behaviour of the non-elite mass of the population both in the speed with which a following of claimants gather round successful bureaucrat or politician and in the readiness with which the abuse of office by public officials is accepted as normal behaviour, condemned only in so far as it benefits someone else rather than oneself.
Further, both artificiality of national communities, and the incorporation of the society into the global economy, help erode a sense of common values, and hence indirectly encourage neopatrimonialism, in which straight forward considerations of personal benefit and exchange of favours come to replace the reciprocal obligations which characterise patrimonialism in which this is particularly evident than those of corruption and patron-client relationship. The inequality of neopatrimonial Nigeria, a brainchild and offspring of corruption and corrupt practices in all sphere of life in Nigeria has plunged Nigeria into different sorts of problems of an everending conclusion. The inequalities and injustices which the system breeds have led to the growth of militancy in the Niger Delta, Disquiets in Southern Nigeria and insurgency in the name of Boko Haram in the North. One of the strongest, most alluring, and at the same time most dangerous forms of clientlelism is the mobilisation of ethnic identities. The Northerners, especially the far-North uses religion as a land mark to achieve this. From a political point of view ethnicity may be seen as a means of giving a moral bond or cement to a clientelist network, the party leadership is placed under an obligation to look after the interests of its constituent race, tribe, caste or religious group, equally to the point, the leadership acquires a kind of legitimacy as the authentic representative of the group, regardless of the enormous differences of class and wealth, in some aspects of political client, between it and its followers. Clientelism, which depends for its existence on a hierarchal ordered
society in which class differences are often intense, both serve as a mechanism for maintaining ruling class interests and, at the same time, systematically inhibits the articulation of class as a source of overt political conflict. Boko Haram, so to say, may have sprung from this preposition (client-patron relationship). It does not baffle the sense of imagination that they had a lot of sympathisers, at a time at least, some people openly glorified them. The question is: where are they all now? Their system that was embroiled in corrupt practices and corruption gave rise to Boko Haram insurgents in Nigeria. The government inept and graft by those in public services led to immoral sermon being preached by everyone in Nigeria today, being Muslim, Christian or laity is also a factor. Boko Haram has placed Nigeria on bad slate of things. Before Boko Haram, Nigeria was already on a path to its infamousness, but Boko Haram has not only defamed the country, it has brought it to its knees and dragged the name into the MUD. It would require the most active detergent to awash the affliction of hate and harm they have perpetrated against Nigeria. The rise of Boko Haram to infamous history was
when they nefariously snatched almost three hundred girls from their school’s dormitory. It is a fact that Boko Haram has scored a propaganda victory but in the process they equally shot themselves in their foot. The world now sees them as an evil terrorist whose intention is not about religion or Islam but to maim and destroy for no just cause. They are poisonous snake, which must be killed or curtailed at all cost. Nigerian government at the same time is now fully awakened to the reality that they have a problem at hand, and a cause that needs to be taken very seriously. Therefore national security can no longer be compromised. Nigeria could have woken up some day and found the whole country swamped by Boko Haram and its sympathisers. Nigerian Authority must and should be aware of what is happening in Iraq. ISIL as a group started very small, in fact sprung out from the disgruntled Sunni elements that once allied themselves with Al Qaeda (Late Osama BinLaden), until they were extricated because of their weird and Hardened extreme views about mankind. Initially ignored and seen as separatist that was innocuous, but ISIL now controls half of Iraqi territory through
• President Goodluck Jonathan
military conquest, which was only possible because they have their sympathisers in Iraq. Nigeria beware enemies are lurking around everywhere. Creation of more states will definitely benefit some Hyenas and Jackals, but would compound poverty for most people, as many states will be on their knees. I have always agitated for more states when it was twelve in 1967 but at 36 or 37 including the Federal Capital Territory and the problem that these states are facing in terms of funding, I do honestly believe for now enough is enough. What Nigeria
urgently needs is good governance, security and poverty alleviation. To forestall the sort of Nigeria which my parents enjoyed, a place where you could sojourn unhindered, without fear of being molested, a country full of aural of happiness and love, and to claim back our lost glory and our rightful place in the world stage, Nigeria must be free of corruption and good governance must prevail. The end time for that has come because every Nigerian is aware something is wrong with the system. God bless Nigeria and in Unity we stand.
“The inequality of neo-patrimonial Nigeria, a brainchild and offspring of corruption and corrupt practices in all sphere of life in Nigeria has plunged Nigeria into different sorts of problems of an ever-ending conclusion. The inequalities and injustices which the system breeds have led to the growth of militancy in the Niger Delta, Disquiets in Southern Nigeria and insurgency in the name of Boko Haram in the North. One of the strongest, most alluring, and at the same time most dangerous forms of clientlelism is the mobilisation of ethnic identities.”
THE WEEKEND
18
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
DELTA WATCH WITH JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM
APC Endorses Ukpere As Ward 8 Boji Boji Candidate THE All Progressive Congress APC Ward 8 Boji, Boji-Agbor in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State has endorsed Mr. Christopher Ukpere as councillorship candidate for the forthcoming local government election in the state. The endorsement came recently in a meeting by the APC Ward 8 Boji, Boji-Agbor in Delta State.’ Speaking at the gathering, the chairman of the All Progressive Congress of the APC, Boji-Agbor in Ika South Local Government Area, Hon. Patrick Egwu, said the endorsement of Mr. Christopher was a unanimous decision by the majority of APC members, based on his contribution towards the growth of the party. The chairman called on the people to support Mr. Ukpere, adding that through him, the voice and interest of the people will be duly represented. In his acceptance speech, the newly endorsed councillorship candidate promised that the All Progressive Congress APC will bring changes, not only to the local government area, but to every nook and cranny of the state if the elections are free and fair. Also reacting to the event, the chairman, APC Ward 8, Hon. Arase has advised the public not to exploit candidates before voting for them, adding that “if you empower somebody without exploiting him, you have the power to demand accountability from him”. He also enjoined all youths in the state to shun social vices, charging them not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs in the forthcoming elections. He also called on party members to be loyal and committed to the development of the party. In another development, in a chat with newsmen at his country home in Boji-Agbor, Delta State, the newly endorsed councillorship candidate, Mr. Christopher Ukpere has promised that the All Progressive Congress APC will emerge victorious in the state come 2015. He stated that the Federal Government-induced Godfatherism which favoured the Peoples Democratic Party in other states will not be the case in Delta State, adding that “only APC is the answer… and God is behind APC for their dreams to come true”. Mr. Ukpere, who is the current chairman of voters sensitization and mobilization committee of the All Progressive Congress APC in
Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, has thanked Dr. Felix Morka, Chief Arase, Hon. Alfred Okorowe, and other leaders and members of the party for trusting him with their
mandate. He charged all APC faithful and citizens of the state to elect only individuals who have the zeal and love of the people to continue to develop the state.
CHIEF Solomon Chukwuma, the Ochoudon of Akumazi and Kin gdom,
President General of A.P.U (Akumazi) in Ika North East Local Government area of Delta State has said that Akumazi Kingdom is unique as peace and unity reign in the area.
Akumazi Kingdom Is Unique - Chukwuma He said the only water borehole in the kingdom has been abandoned and the health centre that was built through community effort has not been commissioned because the project is yet to be completed despite the fact that the state government promised to come to the aid of the community on the completion of the health centre. He frowned at the way people go to dustbin to pick items in order to meet up with basic life’s necessities and urged the government to give the teeming youths empowerment skills that will better their lives. Chief Solomon
advised the Ika nation, particularly the people of Akumazi to be law abiding, as they look forward to better standard of living in the next dispensation. He appealed to Akumazi sons and daughters both home and diaspora, friends and well-wishes to grace the launching of Akumazi unity hall on the 30th of August 2014. Chief Ochoudon thanked the SUBEB chairman Chief Mrs. Pat Efefeeb the Ojuwan of Akumazi kingdom, Chief Willington Okirika, the Orikee of Amuymazi, Mr. Ehiedu Aniaka and others for their good support to Akumazi kingdom. He advised H.R.M. and other chiefs in the community to put their personal interest aside.
Delta APC Stalwart Urges Ikas To Embrace The Party AN All Progressive Congress (APC) stalwart has advised all APC members in the three levels of government to stand firm in the interest of the party.
Mr. Christopher Ukpere
NGO Calls For Youth Empowerment THE President of an N.G.O, True Identity Poverty Alleviation Initiation (T.I.P.A.I) Miss Precious Blessing Ugbekile, has urged the Federal Government to provide enabling environment for job opportunities for the youths across the nation. Miss Precious Ugbekile made this call in an interview with newsmen in Benin City, Edo State capital recently, said the availability of job would boost the present administration’s transformation agenda. She further said that the organisation focuses more on the benefits of
education to members of the society through better child campaign project. The President charged members of the public to be alert to the emerging opportunities as she said that the organization is working hard to educate, train, transform the jobless people in the society to be able to confront challenges of life. Miss Ugbekile said that the organization has been able to empower several people through capital building, adding that the NGO has been at the fore front in meeting the aspiration and yearning of the children, youth and
other members of the society. The only way to achieve transformations he said is for government and stake holders to focus on youth by providing enabling environment for job creation. Miss Precious said that, the youths should be encouraged to be self employed just as she said that the people should be given the awareness to let them know that there are really ways to be self employed. The vehicle to achieve this she said should be provided by the government. This can be done of
making soft loan available from microfinance institutions or other necessary means she, said. Miss Precious said the N.G.O. would continue to play its part in promoting the wellbeing of the populace, particularly, the less privileged remove. She pointed out that some of the beneficiaries she has trained are now forging ahead in their businesses, urging the Federal Ministry of Women Affair and the State counterpart to come to their aid to enable her go with her N.G.O activities.
Mr. Alex Aiworo, who is the co-ordinator of APC in ward 3 Ihu-Ozomor (Ozanogogo) in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State made this call in a chat with the W E E K E N D OBSERVER, saying APC is the only party that has structure from ward to the federal level. He said why he strongly believes in APC is the fact that “other states being governed by the party, the dividends of democracy are felt in all the nooks and crannies. He urged well meaning indigenes of Delta State to support APC to enthrone credible candidate who would win elective positions come 2015. Mr. Aiworo however appealed to All APC members at the three levels of government to come to Ihu-Ozomor Ward 3 to help mobilize his people saying he is convinced that APC will deliver his people from suffering.
THE WEEKEND
19
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Use Of Military To Drive Democracy Is Wrong By BAYO OLUWASANMI THE practice of democracy does not in any way guarantee that the government will always do what is best in the public interest. However, the curious fact remains that if a government is thought competent, its orders are readily obeyed without the use of power. Soon after the birth of the Jonathan Presidency, we were given a foretaste of the form of power in the political kit bags of our new masters in the most ferocious and wicked application. One of the latest misused and misapplied political powers of President Jonathan is the new role assigned to the Nigerian military in electoral democracy. Literally, the military has usurped the constitutional and civil functions of the police in the maintenance of law and order during campaigns and elections. The two recently concluded gubernatorial elections in Ekiti and Osun States witnessed the deployment of military armada ordered by Mr. Jonathan in his capacity as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The reason given by Mr. Jonathan was to ensure “free and fair” elections. But in reality, the objective of Mr. Jonathan and his ruling PDP
majority is to harass, molest, intimidate, arrest, and detain members of the opposition party and the press. In some cases, opponents and journalists were beaten and the general public was deprived of freedom of movement. Mr. Jonathan as a Ph.D holder and given the history of the military in Nigeria’s political history should know that the constitutional role of our military in electoral democracy however limited is undesirable. Historically, military interventions in Nigeria meant the establishment of a military dictatorship not the preservation or promotion of constitutional democracy. Our military is a hegemonic institution with a strong appetite for political interventions and hostile takeovers. The military wields its constitutional powers not to further democracy, but to hinder it. Our military is not known for democracy-promoting role. For the first time in our electoral democracy, Mr. Jonathan is on record to have initiated and promoted self-appointed military and civilian dictators. Mr. Jonathan has subverted the Constitution by his use of military in constitutional matters such as elections, the rule of law, the system of justice, and transparent
governance. The military, similar to the Nazi Gestapo, especially in the brutal suppression of opposition during the Ekiti and Osun gubernatorial elections, is coercive, above the law, and civil society is below it, and ordinary Nigerians are out of sight. The use of the military as oppressive tool against opponents by Mr. Jonathan will invariably lead to what Bertrand Russell call “the recrudescence of ancient evils: slavery, bigotry, intolerance and abject misery for the majority.” It is common knowledge that our military is not an institution that distinguishes the values and principles of electoral democracy. The military is antithetical to core principles of democracy. Democracy is driven by the interest of the ordinary people. It gives the people decision-making power. It empowers the masses, makes more government accountable and less corruptible. The use of military negates political mobilization during campaign and during elections. The military fosters patron-client chains, parochial identities, bribery and intimidation. It is not surprising to see that voting becomes a metaphor for powerlessness and exploitation. No wonder, the military has turned elections in Nigeria into bondage.
Our military has no regard for legitimacy or legality, but for expediency. The involvement of the military in electoral democracy is not conducive to democracy because politics becomes a warfare. Nigerian military is nothing but a highly specialized apparatus of violence with no civilized values. The military is a tool of violence, democracy is a means of consensus building. Democracy enjoins participation, the military demands submission. Our military has proved useless and worthless. It is only a tool of internal repression. It is redundant against a credible external threat. In a news story last week in SaharaReporters, Nigerian troops fled Gwoza as Boko Haram captured tank and driver and one of the commanders, Lt. Colonel Agu whereabouts was unknown. It was the second time within 24 hours that Nigerian soldiers were beaten to a retreat by Boko Haram in an attempt to retake Gwoza where the terrorists killed over 100 civilian and several soldiers, says SaharaReporters. It’s over 100 days now and Mr. Jonathan has failed to use the same military in securing the 300 abducted Chibok girls. According to news report, over 173,000 security personnel was dispatched to Osun State. Power not only corrupts, it also dissipates. A good leader reads the situation before he leads. One effective way to discourage and dissuade Mr. Jonathan from using the military as his political toy,
is to abolish the civil control and oversight of our military by the executive branch of government. Responsibility for oversight must be shared equitably by the legislature, the public and the press. Defense objectives, military budgets, and military deployments must be debated and approved by the legislature and the public. Nigerians are also to blame for allowing Mr. Jonathan to use the military to trample upon their human rights, civil rights, and electoral rights. Because of their docility and opportunism, Nigerians lack the courage to put up any resistance to stop Mr. Jonathan from using the military to intimidate them. Nigerians are very submissive to the ruling class. They corrupt the politicians by granting them the liberty to abuse them. They worship them, they submit to all forms of indignity in order to receive crumbs thrown at them. They don’t know what democracy is all about and how to be democrats. Mr. Jonathan should desist from injecting himself into gubernatorial elections under the guise of promoting “free and fair” election. What then is the job of INEC? If INEC cannot mobilize and deploy the powers and resources granted it by the Constitution, then it’s of no use and should be scrapped immediately. There are other democratic options on the table for Mr. Jonathan to
ensure free and fair elections: strengthening of democratic institutions such as the judicial system, foolproof voter ID cards and other election materials, criminalizing “stomach infrastructure,” establishment of State Police, non-involvement of political thugs parading themselves as ministers, etc. When democratic institutions are weak, elections are easily used by violent and dictatorial government like the PDP in power to manipulate the will of the people and seize control of the government. Democracy is a liberal political system based on freedom, its main vehicle – election – should not legitimately be used to impose tyranny or foment violence. Elections are the sine qua non of democracy. Elections alone cannot establish or sustain democracy. Other essential elements such as consent of the governed, constitutional limits, the protection of human and minority rights, accountability and transparency, a multiple party system, economic freedom, and the rule of law must be guaranteed. Justice entails discipline and rigorous commitment to equality. So far, Mr. Jonathan’s actions and decisions in the use of military in electoral matters portend ominous and calamitous extremes. Should this trend continue with the same vigor and fervor, he will automatically become Commander-inChief of agent of evils.
THE WEEKEND
20
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
o
P litics “Elections should never be seen as a war or some do or die affair, if sincere service to humanity is the driving force. Why all the executive rascality and shenanigans in Osun? President Jonathan may not know it, but his junior minister of defence is making a mess of the defence ministry as he has effectively turned our soldiers to political thugs...”
Osun Election: Triumph Of People’s Will “IT’S an intolerable abuse of power to have employees who are supposed to be advancing the public interest, actually working on political campaigns.” I arrived Osogbo, the capital of the state of Osun on Sunday 3rd of August, 2014 and one thing that immediately struck me was the ominous signs of tension in the air. Please bear in mind that I have been shuttling between Lagos and Osun for over two months, therefore I am quite familiar with the state long before this last visit and I can confidently say that Osun is quite a peaceful and serene state. But as my friends and I drove into Osogbo, we noticed that the atmosphere was unusually charged. Our problem started as soon as we got to the hotel where we had always lodged on previous visits to the State and having earlier made reservations, we were scared away by the presence of heavily armed and mostly masked security operatives. There are lots of hotels in Osogbo but Ideal Nest and Regina Suites were the creme of the pick, followed by others such as Ripples etc.To cut a long story short, we were forced to make other arrangements a were told that our reservations had been canceled. One other thing I noticed was the sudden abuse of sirens and the attendant noise. Note that the governor of the state of Osun does not, as a matter of principle, use a siren while driving around and no member of his cabinet does. But the soldiers, police officers, DSS and a battery of security operatives were intent on making their presence felt with their constant blaring of sirens, and boy, did we feel their presence?! By Wednesday, we had begun to understand that
the election in Osun was not going to be a walk in the park. So many incidents were panning out but let me state one of those here. My friend, the honorable Ayodeji Joseph was forcefully evicted from his hotel, alongside his aides. He was lodged at the Ideal nest, the same hotel Mr. Muslim
them are Twitter users and will likely read this. And if they feel they are up to it, maybe they will corroborate this assertion. Later on Friday night before the election, the
straw occurred when Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Sunday Dare (for no other reason than the fact that they were APC members) were held incommunicado without any charge brought against them and
Obanikoro was lodged in. Ostensibly, the place had become a sort of ad hoc HQ of the defence ministry and APC members were no longer welcome here, thank you. It took the combined efforts of myself and a lot of other well wishers to get him another place to put up. We knew the die was cast and by Friday it got worse as some hotels were raided by heavily armed security men, ostensibly to deal with APC supporters and sympathizers. Journalists were not spared as Simon Ateba, a reporter for Ynaija was one of those who got busted and harassed in their hotel rooms. Before then, by Thursday, I had few NYSC members speak to me on condition of anonymity. They were being offered N30,000 (thirty thousand naira) to cooperate and look away especially in Ife and Ede areas. Fortunately one or two of
home of Isiaka Faramade, the executive secretary of Osogbo local government, was surrounded by masked men who threatened to shoot him if he didn’t emerge. While we were communicating and looking for ways out for him, the same scenario was playing out at the Ede country home of Senator Adeleke. His personal security men had to engage the marauders while he was ferreted away to safety in the dead of the night. It was so bad that he eventually could not cast his vote. The governor himself was holed up in the government house as he had been forewarned not to venture out of Osogbo to Ilesha, his country home where he was going to cast his ballot, until the dawn of the next day. So many other acts of intimidation were being perpetrated by security operatives, most of whom were masked. The final
were released the next day. All of these brigandage and executive rascality were ostensibly carried out to ensure a free and fair election in line with the transformation agenda of our dear president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. But surprisingly, not one PDP member was harassed. Indeed it was a level playing field, did I hear you say? On the Election Day proper, so many shenanigans went down but I won’t regale you with too much tales. Let me just state a few cases. First off, the APC had 277 party agents in Osogbo, but the INEC in its wisdom only gave the party 60 official tags. Cue Bedlam! So many people were disenfrarkhised and were refused the right to vote. For instance a man named Adeyeye Ademola Andrew, who duly registered and had his
By AYOBAMI OYALOWO
PVC was not allowed to vote and up till this moment, INEC is yet to give us reasons why they forcefully refused him accreditation and subsequently denied him the right to exercise his civic right. NYSC members in Ife and environs who were officially on duty with their names stamped and pasted on INEC office boards were suddenly substituted illegally. One of the NYSC members who was prevented from doing their jobs and substituted with fake corp. members is on Twitter with the handle @S_hakur. So many other infractions too numerous and some times extremely ridiculous, were carried out. Waheed Saka, the Director of CEDI and Ag. National Coordinator CDRP, Nigeria reported that voters were openly induced with N2, 000 each to vote for the PDP while the police officers posted to the area looked on. His exact tweet reads: “PDP MAN named OROBO is giving out #2000 each on the queue at Ilare ward 2 unit 4, Ife central LG in the presence of police, NSCDC and Soldiers”. (Credible election is the bedrock of any democracy. The Osun election was won by the APC flag bearer not because the federal government wanted a free and fair contest, but because the people of Osun decided to make their voices heard and their votes count in the face of illegal and strong arm tactics, intimidation and executive rascality. We can’t regard an election as free and fair just because lives were not lost.’ A free and fair contest means that the rules are obeyed to the letter and security officials are not deployed to aid the emergence of favoured candidates over others. This current democratic experience was not
bestowed on us, it was won from the blood and sweat of martyrs of democracy. The PDP led federal government should understand that history will judge whatever actions are taken today. With a total of 15,000 soldiers, 30,000 policemen, 8,000 SSS officers and 20,000 NSCDC personnel deployed to Osun for an election, one will ask, why isn’t the same show of force used to reclaim Gwoza and other Nigerian territories that are now in the firm grip of terrorists? Elections should never be seen as a war or some do or die affair, if sincere service to humanity is the driving force. Why all the executive rascality and shenanigans in Osun? President Jonathan may not know it, but his junior minister of defence is making a mess of the defence ministry as he has effectively turned our soldiers to political thugs to be deployed to rig elections in the southwest. For a man who has two different dates of births, two different surnames, who had committed arson and destroyed the Lagos mainland city hall after looting the treasury of Lagos local government and was still made a junior minister; who before all these was an ambassador, much should not really be expected of him, nor should one be surprised. Osun inhabitants have spoken, not because it was a free and fair polling exercise but because they were determined that the will of the people must prevail. I congratulate them and their governor and I hope the larger Nigerian population will learn from this experience. This democracy may be imperfect but we must not lose it. It is our sacred duty to do what is best at all times. History will judge all our actions. May we be found on the positive side of history.
THE WEEKEND
21
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
n Are Iraqi Xtians More Than Nigerian Xtians?
I sight LAST Thursday, President Barak Obama authorised the US Armed Forces to begin air strikes against the combined forces of the Islamic extremist terrorist groups, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and the Islamic State of Iraq and Al Sham (ISIS), otherwise referred to as the Islamic State. It is notable that the President, who pledged a full withdrawal of US forces from Iraq during his first bid to become President, was persuaded to approve US military engagement in the country once again due to the Islamic States’ brutal murder of civilians, particularly those who belong to religious minorities. Tens of thousands of Iraqi Christians have been forced to flee their homes as the extremists gave them a stark choice – leave, convert or die. The choice given to the Christians of cities such as Mosul and Qaraqosh is horribly familiar to the hundreds of thousands of Christians in Northern Nigeria, who have been offered the same choice
albeit by a different Islamic extremist terrorist group – Boko Haram. Only last week the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported as many as 650,000 people have been forced from their homes in Northern Nigeria. As Chair of the Northern Christian Elders Forum my prayers are with our Iraqi brothers and sisters who are suffering a similar fate to our members in Northern Nigeria. No one should suffer the atrocities and injustices these evil groups inflict upon their victims, and I pray their terror will soon end. But it is not just in Iraq and Nigeria that Christian’s face persecution. The pattern of violence and persecution can be seen across Africa and the Middle East. In a recent statement, his Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby highlighted the dangers that face the Christian populations: “With the world’s attention on the plight of those in Iraq, we must not forget that this is part of an evil pattern around
By OLAIYA PHILIPS
the world where Christians and other minorities are being killed and persecuted for their faith.” Our friends in the US have been very kind in the recent past to offer military assistance to the Nigerian government, especially in the wake of the kidnapping of hundreds of teenage girls from a school in Chibok, Borno State. Military and intelligence advisers, training and equipment have all been provided to aid the Nigerian military in the successful recovery of the kidnapped school girls. US surveillance aircraft and drones have spent months searching for the girls over huge expanses of dense forest our own military would simply not be able to do. Yet one must ask – why has the US not committed to air strikes on Boko Haram like they have on the Islamic State? Surely the value of the hundreds of thousands of Christians in harm’s way at the hands of Boko Haram,
are just as important as the hundreds of thousands of Iraqi Christians? Should the question not be what more the US government – and indeed the whole international community – can do to prevent the persecution of religious minorities across the world? Should the debate not be opened up to what should be done in: Iraq; Nigeria; the Central African Republic; Syria; South Sudan; and Burma? Should an international crisis of this scale not be at the top of the agenda in the UN? Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees everyone the right to freedom of belief. President Barack Obama and the international community cannot pick and choose which battles they decide to fight and which they decide to turn a blind eye to. They must urgently come to the aid of those nations being torn apart by religious
• Pastor Ayo Oristejafor intolerance and bigotry. To allow these Islamic extremists groups to flourish
anywhere is to allow the terrorists to win. Culled from The Huffington Post
2015: Jonathan And NEF’s Delusion
I have been at odds trying to rationalize, or otherwise put a value to the recent ultimatum given President Goodluck Jonathan by a group known as Northern Elders Forum (NEF). The group, long-discredited by its often parochial stance on national issues, insists the President must produce the abducted Chibok girls and bring an end to the Boko Haram insurgency by the end of October 2014, or be deemed unfit to seek reelection in 2015. My first impulse was to dismiss the so-called ultimatum as not worth the paper it is written on; but I hesitated for the
reason that the fallacies implied in the NEF statement must be challenged and the issues put in their proper perspectives. The NEF does not always comment on issues except when their narrow interests are concerned; then they are at their adversarial best. Their sudden burst over the Chibok girls’ abduction, the nation’s security challenge and the manner they are linking them with Jonathan’s re-election should arouse interest. No doubt, the Chibok girls’ abduction stirs patriotic Nigerians to sympathy, and it is one issue in which Jonathan has spoken and
• President Goodluck Jonathan
By FEMI AYELABOWO acted with so much passion. He continues to reiterate that his government will do everything within its powers to ensure their safe release as well as resolve the nation’s other lingering security challenges. Evidently, he has kept to that assurance, working strenuously in collaboration with international assistance, to return the country to normalcy. However, implicit in the NEF statement is that Jonathan has not done enough on the Chibok girls. The falsehood should not be allowed to stand. While I agree that the lingering terrorist attacks and other related security challenges in the country pose a major threat to the 2015 elections and the survival of Nigeria as a nation, I disagree that the solution resides with one man, however high the office he holds. When the forum lamented that the insurgents have taken over some parts of the North-East, who really do they blame? They must face the truth: the Frankenstein’s monster they created or helped nurture has unfortunately turned against them and cannot be potent as a tool of blackmail against President Jonathan? To send Nigeria’s President on what is ordinarily a fool’s errand is therefore
preposterous. An ultimatum is no less idiotic than the unwillingness by prominent leaders of the region to genuinely seek a resolution of the problem. It speaks volumes of their so-called love for their homeland and gives credence to rumours that they are hand-in-gloves with the opposition which, in an effort to discredit the President as the 2015 election draws near, has been linked with the dastardly act. Yes, it does appear that some ‘Elders’ are complicit, acting as quislings to the national cause. The last time the NEF issued a statement on the nation’s security situation, it was to disparage the Nigerian military and their campaign to halt the advance of the dreaded terrorist gang, Boko Haram, into the North East. In defending the terrorists, the stormy petrel of the NEF, Professor Ango Abdullahi, had accused the military of genocide and threatened to drag then Chief of Army Staff, General Azubuike Ihejirika, to the World Court. Ironically, in less than a year later, the same NEF has made restoration of peace to the North East its condition for the nation’s Commander-InChief to exercise his constitutional right to stand for re-election. The
connection between one man’s right and what is ordinarily a common national problem, cannot be more curious and revealing. Also, the claim that the NEF was speaking for the entire North, cannot be more laughable; so is the waspish basis on which they are threatening to decide for all of us come October. Of course, the group which has over the years been manipulated by a certain clique in the North West, cannot be speaking for the whole North, especially those other areas of the old region that have borne the brunt of their selfish activities. It is obvious from the 2011 elections that the vast majority of Northerners do not share their negative views of Goodluck Jonathan. They must be either ignorant or oblivious of the reality of the present political configuration in the North which forms the nationalistic support base for the President. The scenario being masterminded to weaken the president and portray him as incompetent and therefore unfit for reelection is therefore untenable. There is, however, a bright side to the statement signed by two members of NEF, Mr. Solomon Dalung and Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed: if Jonathan does not resolve the Chibok crisis, he will
forfeit his right (emphasis mine) to ask for our mandate beyond 2015. For the first time, after several surreptitious efforts to make it impossible for him to even put himself forward for reelection, the group now admits that Jonathan reserves the right to ask for our mandate beyond 2015. That is interesting; you cannot forfeit what you are not entitled to. It is an interesting step forward. Like the Presidential spokesman, Reuben Abati said in response to the stance of those misguided elders, it is delusional for anybody or group of persons to pretend they are in a position to give the President of Nigeria an ultimatum. It is even more delusional to assume they can make choices for the larger majority of Northerners. The NEF should rather direct their frustration at the terrorists killing and maiming their kith and kin, and in supporting the President’s efforts at curtailing their nefarious activities. To seek to exploit the unfortunate incidence for political gains is most irrational. As an African proverb says, it is a foolish man that chases after rats running away from his burning house. Why the respected Alhaji Maitama Sule continues to be associated with such regional bigotry, in the twilight of his life, still rankles but it is a matter for another day.
THE WEEKEND
22
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
o
C unselling
With
Emotional And Mental Disturbances IT is the brain structure that develops first, but in the human baby, it is the brain that first develops, composed of something like 10 billion neurons or nerve cells which is about half the body’s total sum of neurons. Our brains are responsible for thought, movement, speech and sensation. Neurons never touch, there are small gaps between them called synapses. When stimulated the neuron release a chemical neuron transmitted that jumps across the synapse to the next nerve cell. Our brains require about 20 percent of the body’s intake of oxygen for improved acuity, remember to focus on breathing more deeply as oxygen is truly food for the brain. Research shows that chlorophyll rich foods are excellent oxygen transporters. High protein foods encourage best mental performances. However, foods high in fat can cloud our perceptions, low blood sugar or hypoglycemia can contribute to learning disabilities, small frequent meals rich in whole grains help to keep blood sugar levels stable. Many emotional and mental disturbances have their roots in prolonged vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Good brain foods are considered dark green leafy vegetables, fish, lean, poultry, beans and cauliflower. There are many herbs that have been used throughout history to nourish and stimulate mental function and mental health. Among the most well known are Grinkgo biloba-improves the brains ability to utilize oxygen and glucose by improving peripheral blood flow. This herb has been found to improve nerve signal transmission, activate ATP-Adenosine triphophate, an organic compound that aids
metabolic reaction. Rosemary – The smell of this herb is said to help alleviate anxiety. Ancient Greece wore laurels of rosemary in their hair when taking examinations to improve their memories. The uplifting fragrance of Rosemary is said to stimulate the pineal gland and improve energy levels. Rosemary is rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and potassium. Chickweed – Rich in calcium and nerve nourishing. Those who suffer from Alzeimer ’s and Parkinson’s disease have been known to show high levels of aluminum in their brain when autopsies were performed. We can improve brain function by better using our abilities. The brain is an organ that gains strength with the balance of repose and right use. Use it or you will lose it. How We Think – The power of though, is a complex phenomenon, far beyond our capacity to fully understand. Even with the most delicate, of modern equipment, we still have much to learn about what is actually going on in the brain. Thought is an electrical process that depends on many different parts of the brain. To make this possible, all these various parts must work smoothly and harmoniously at the same time. All our thoughts are built up to a large extent from our memories from scenes or ideas we have previously visualized and experienced. For instance, we are aware of what we see, hear, and feel right now, only because of our previous memories which have been stored within the brain ready for instant recall the moment we need them. Research shows that memory is of the greatest
O.C. Madu GSM: 08056379608
importance, for without it we could never learn, nor could we understand what we see and hear. Our ability to store memories and use them at the right time enables us not only to understand, but also, to transmit our ideas to other
to go to bed. Such memories may last only a few minutes, we are only too glad to forget them. Permanent memories, such as our name, age, sex, home address and nationality, remain with us all the time. Most of these
memories of the past and by your ability to reason and think. Why Some People Fail – However, not every baby born into the world has the same capacity for success. Much depends upon the arrangement of
people. Thus, we depend upon memory to guide us in all that we do. Prolonged experience brings maturity of thought, largely because our memories of the past help to guide us in our present decisions. A young child is at a great disadvantage, for his memories are not fully developed. For his own protection, he must be guided by those who are older and whose judgement are more reliable. Two Types Of Memories – We have two types of memory. Research confirmed that one is temporary and the other is more permanent. We use both all the time but usually, in different ways. For instance, many times a day we have to remember certain things such as when to get up, when to eat, what to buy, where to work and when
memories are more permanent, probably, because of actual changes with the electrical circuits of the brain itself. Thus, the last thing an elderly person, remembers maybe some childhood event that happened seventy or eighty years ago. The earlier, these memories are formed, the more permanent they seem to be. The ability to remember is probably our most important asset. Without it, we are hopelessly lost and confused. This is what happens when a person has a stroke or some other injury to the brain. We analyse the information, weigh it and carefully evaluate it, then decide how and where to use it. All these reactions are taking place right now as you read, think and study. And thus, your whole life is shaped by
genes within that first, tiny embryonic cell, the fertilized ougeur. The environment in which he grows up will make a vast difference. And even more important will be the use he makes of the talents and opportunities given him. We cannot blame our ancestors for all our failures. The real responsibility often lies within ourselves. Our mental laziness is only too often the real reason for our failures in life. Research also shows that the brain and nervous system are so easily damaged and may even be destroyed by certain poisons and injuries that are often the result of our own carelessness. Pain – Nerves are found in all parts of the body. Some carry electrical impulses to the muscles, telling them how and when to move. These
are known as motor nerves. Others carry sensations back to the brain, these are referred to as sensory nerves. Never forget that pain is an important sign of trouble within the body. It
should never be neglected. Nor should one be tempted to take some simple pain-killing medicine and forget the discomfort. Strange as it may seem, the brain itself is not sensitive to pain. This means that most headaches are not due to any actual damage within the brain itself. However, any stretching or pressure on the coverings of the brain or the large blood-vessels, certainly produce a severe pain or headache. When taken, daily brain boosting herbs and super-foods can bring a state of alertness and stimulate creative thinking. We do know from scientific studies that many herbs increase the activity of some of the brains neurontransmitters, which are chemical that messages from one nerve cell to another.
THE WEEKEND
23
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Issues
• President Jonathan
• OBJ
• Sulaiman Abba, IG-P
Why Nigerians Are Corrupt BY most accounts, corruption, which has become a global cankerworm, constitutes the bulk of the ills afflicting Nigeria. Corruption manifests in all webs of human activities – in governments, religious institutions, businesses and other interactions. Even as some analysts contend that corruption in Nigeria is somewhat exaggerated, others describe its magnitude in the country as startling. However, the analysts agree that for corruption to be contained in Nigeria, factors encouraging corruption should be brought to the fore and tackled headon. They say that the factors include greed, weak antigraft laws, exorbitant school fees, prohibitive house rents, high cost of living and obsession of some parents who want their children to excel in exams at all costs as well as efforts of politicians to win elections at all costs. Mr Maxwell Opara, a lawyer, said that greed was a major factor that pushed many Nigerians into corruption. He said that many people were not contented with what they had, adding that this compelled them to do everything possible to amass wealth, even if it entailed stealing or looting public funds. “People are not just okay with what they have; a man who owns two cars will like to add the latest car in town
to his fleet. “A man, who owns a comfortable house where he resides with his family, will also want to acquire more houses to put up for rent,’’ he added. Opara said that another factor fuelling corruption was the fact that the Nigerian society celebrated corruption, as it honoured those who had acquired wealth through fraudulent means. He said that most times, the society was aware that a man embezzled public funds in order to vie for a political office and yet, the people would still go ahead and vote for him in if he was able to dole out money. “Fraudsters, looters and dubious businessmen are receiving chieftaincy titles in our communities everyday; how then will well-meaning citizens not tilt towards corruption?’’ he asked. Besides, Opara said that religious institutions had tacitly contributed in the spread of corruption in the society by shying away from their responsibilities. He noted that many Christian and Islamic clerics never queried the source of the wealth their adherents whenever they made donations to churches or mosques. “A man, who is a murderer or thief, will come to the church and make huge donations; pay tithes or build churches or mosques as the case may be and the clerics would keep mute because of the material gains.
By CHIJIOKE OKORONKWO
“The clerics even bless and pray for such persons steadily. In this type of situation, other faithful in such congregation will not see anything wrong in amassing wealth through dubious means and ‘buy’ God’s blessing with money,’’ he said. As part of efforts to tackle the growing menace of corruption, Opara urged the National Assembly to review the existing anti-corruption laws, with a view to prescribing capital punishment for corruption, as it was done in China. He also underscored the need for the establishment of special courts to try corruption cases, so as to ensure speedy and fair dispensation of justice. He however, frowned against the plea bargain provision, saying that it provided soft landing for looters of the public treasury. Opara stressed that people, who had once been convicted of corruption charges, should not be given appointments whether at the state or federal levels. However, Paulinus Ijeh, a civil servant, said that the poor living conditions of most Nigerians often encouraged several people to engage in corrupt activities. He noted that the day-today responsibilities of an average worker in Nigeria far exceeded what his earnings could handle, adding the ensuing dilemma often compelled the worker to
engage in Machiavellian tactics to live up to expectations. “Imagine a situation where a civil servant with an annual salary below N1 million has to pay up N1.5 million as school fees for each of his three wards in a year. “Do you think such person, no matter how morally sound he is, will resist an opportunity to make money through illicit means? “Imagine a situation where a family man pays up to N800,000 annually for a twobedroom flat; and he is still faced with other obligations like school fees, feeding, hospital bills, among others; do you thing he will resist the opportunity to loot? “Imagine a situation where a poor teacher is being offered a sum, which more than his two months’ salary, to influence the result of a certain kid from a rich home; will the teacher be able to resist such an offer?’’ he asked. Nevertheless, Ijeh stressed that in spite of all the societal pressures which predispose people to corruption, a principled person without greed would always avoid corrupt practices. It should be recalled that President Goodluck Jonathan, at a recent conference of the Nigerian Economic Society in Abuja, regretted that Nigerians reward corrupt practices. The president said that he wanted a society where
everybody would frown upon people who came up with what they were not supposed to have. “If a young man just started a job and within six months or a year, he comes up with a car of N7 million to N15 million and you clap for him; then, you are rewarding corruption. “So, for us as a nation to bring corruption down, it is not just blaming the government or blaming the police. “All individuals must frown upon people who have what they are not supposed to have; who live in houses they are not supposed to live in; who drive cars they are not supposed to drive and who wear expensive clothes they are not supposed to wear. “And until Nigerians are able to do this, I don’t think we will get to where we want to go,” he added. Jonathan said that the private and public sectors were both involved in sharp practices and so, the fight against corruption could be left for the government alone. “When you talk about corruption; the private sector is involved, the public sector is involved; even individuals are involved. “But I know that if we collectively resolve not to reward corruption, people would not be attracted to corrupt practices, but when we all reward corruption, then of course, we will be tempted to go in that direction.” Meanwhile, relevant agencies are not resting on their oars in the campaign
against corruption. For instance, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) recently reaffirmed their commitment to the crusade against corruption in the country. The Chairman of ICPC, Mr Ekpo Nta, who spoke when the ICPC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the anti-corruption crusade with NOA recently in Abuja, said that the synergy would go a long way in curbing corrupt practices. “It is through enlightenment like this that we can apportion responsibility to those that are causing us problem in this country. “There is no gain saying the fact that fighting corruption is a collective responsibility and we in ICPC have always emphasised the need for collective wisdom in this national crusade,’’ Nta said. On his part, Mr Mike Omeri, the Director-General of NOA, said that the agency would adopt the “Identify, Reject and Report Corruption (IRRC)’’ approach in efforts to implement the agreement. Observers, however, urge the government to initiate pragmatic measures to improve the living standards of the citizens, saying that this would provoke a remarkable reduction of corrupt tendencies in the Nigerian society.
THE WEEKEND
24
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
e
P rspective CHARLES Soludo is a professor of Banking and Finance. Before he became the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria under the administration of the President Olusegun Obasanjo he was a fire brand lecturer at the prestigious University of Nigeria Nsukka, in Enugu state. With the above credentials in mind, it is therefore safe to conclude that he remains a first class thinker. While still serving as the governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank, he delivered a lecture at the founders’ day of the University of Benin, Benin city, Edo state on November 23rd 2006 titled “Can Nigeria be the China of Africa?”. Before delving into the lecture aforementioned, it is appropriate to state that China is one of the World’s fastest growing economies and that Asian tiger also has one of the stiffest penalties globally against corruption and economic crimes which minimizes the percentage of criminals that are churned out in that World’s largest country. But Nigeria which prides itself as the World’s largest black nation has some of the weakest safeguards against corruption and economic crimes and sadly, poverty and the frightening situation of fast collapsing social infrastructure steer the country menacingly in the face. Now coming back to that lecture by the erstwhile Central Bank of Nigeria governor in which he posed a critical question of whether Nigerians are ready to build the country’s economy to assume the envious position of becoming the China of Africa, it would interest my readers to note that this professor also painted a graphic picture of the devastating consequences of living in a nation with weak law enforcement institutions and a high rate of corruption and economic crimes. He wrote thus; “What a tragedy! In contrast, two brand names emerged in the international community to define Nigeria: Advance Fee Frauds (aka 419) and corruption as Transparency International consistently ranked it either number one or two most corrupt country”.
Of Ghost Workers And Ghost Corpers
In international relations, Nigeria was literally a pariah State, so says Professor Soludo. “In economic terms the decade of the 1990s witnessed an average GDP growth rate of 2.8 per cent– just about the rate of growth of the population (2.83 percent). This means that on a per capita basis, growth was zero during the decade of the 1990s and no wonder poverty incidence worsened to 70%. The entire basic infrastructure was in a state of crisis, with barely 1700MWH of electricity being generated for a country that needed at least 50,000?. The situation depicted above since 2006 hasn’t changed much now even with the rebasing of the economy which reportedly placed Nigeria as one of the fastest growing markets in Africa. Ironically poverty is still a huge challenge even as corruption and economic crimes which breed poverty are still very
By EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO much with us in Nigeria and the anti-graft regime is somewhat compromised. The members of the National Assembly which should play the constitutional role of oversight has increasingly being accused of allegedly soiling their hands since most of them are the same failed contractors that still handle most of the failed contracts across the country. Only last week the platform I currently head which is a protransparency NonG o v e r n m e n t a l organization- HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA [HURIWA] raised alarm that there may exist a well entrenched racket within the management of the National Youth Service Corps scheme [NYSC] that has perfected mechanism for fleecing the country of
huge resources annually through manipulation of the list of participants of the national service scheme and corrupt procurement practices. We were approached by several persons and also got considerable volume of calls from concerned insiders who have also fingered officials of the Federal Budget Office and the relevant committees with oversight powers over the NYSC in the National Assembly in the huge swindle which may have gone on since 2010 costing Nigeria nearly N90 billion. From the allegations at our disposal there is every indication that several Billions of Naira is being fleeced Nigeria yearly through the NYSC scheme. For the past three years, the scheme claim in its yearly budget to mobilize 250,000 corps
members whereas the actual mobilized figures is far short of these figures. A cursory look at these figures shows that budgetary allocations and release of corps members allowance is 98% for corps members monthly allowances. In view of these avalanche of allegations the question is what happens to several billions of Naira of released corpers allowance from the Federal Government? For instance, for 2012 and 2013, the total difference of released monthly corpers allowance which NYSC ought to return to the Federal coffers is reportedly N13,583,808 billion. And for 2014 Batch ‘A’ while NYSC received money for about 100,000 corps members which it claimed it was mobilizing, only 51,000 corpers were allegedly mobilized whereas the allowance of 49,000 unmobilized
corpers amounting to slightly above N10.3 billion Naira may be unaccounted for if action is not adopted by the Finance ministry to recoup the difference. From information and materials the above stated figures of expenditures are aside other allowances like N1,500 transport allowance to camp and N1,500 transport back home at the end of the service year as well as N1,000 local transport allowance which everyone of the supposed 250,000 is said to have been collected by NYSC management”. Another angle to this alleged massive looting of the nation’s treasury is that while government appropriates/releases N500 for feeding each corps member per day for 21 days in camp only N300 is actually said to be released to states secretariats for this. We hereby call on the relevant bodies to commence investigation to ascertain if these damaging allegations are anything to go by so as to save the nation the much needed resources at these trying periods” We learnt from reliable sources also, that yearly Billions of Naira are released for clothing kits (uniforms) for the supposed 250,000 corps members. How come for over four years the figure of 250,000 corpers has been constant. Nigerians need to also ask why has government not been paying corps members monthly allowance direct to them just like they do with workers. Are they saying there are no ghost corpers? There is need to stop this massive looting now. The Billions of Naira being looted into private pockets can as well be used to provide education and jobs for the youths whose name is being used to loot. I do also think that there is an urgent demand for a forensic examination of the financial books which as we were told may reveal that the above is just a tip of the ice berg in the colossal looting of the country’s commonwealth. In the light of these emerging frightening allegations, this piece therefore is a wakeup call to all Nigerians to ask where are the Billions going to, who is in possession of this money.
THE WEEKEND
25
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
p
O inion
Why Minister Of Health Should Resign - Toroko Amos
• Prof. Oyebuchi Chukwu, Health Minister
A Minister of Health is more like a priest to a nation, their words are source of hope and life, so they are reverend, priest are not
known to tell lies so a Minister of Health. We all saw the Ebola virus coming, most of us shouted to the heavens for
government to take sure measures that will prevent this deadly God forbid virus ravaging some West African countries entering our dear country, since we rank among countries with worst public health service and disease control record in the world. The Punch newspaper also gave an intelligence report that the sffice of the National Security Adviser warned the office of the Minister of Health of the grave implications of the Ebola virus to national security and the need for steps to be taken 10 days before the infamous visit of the Liberian, Patrick Sawyer, to Lagos. The minister had all the time to put necessary preventive measures in place, so as to arrest and isolate any suspected case of the deadly virus, but did
little or nothing as usual, Ebola diseases came into the country without any form of resistance, innocent lives have been exposed to the deadly virus, an ECOWAS aid staff and a Nigerian nurse have lost their life to the carelessness of this minister. Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu, the minister of health however during the briefing on the outbreak of the Ebola Virus lied and I quote him “Mr Sawyer was flagged at the point of disembarkation in Lagos. He was then accordingly quarantined and transferred to a hospital in Lagos, straight from the airport” How can the minister tell this shameful lie that it was the system put in place that flagged the demon called Sawyer sent from Liberia to kill Nigerians) who’s
government preventive measures existed on pages of newspapers. If indeed this man was flagged and quarantined by the system how come we are having the whole medical staff of that hospital quarantined, why was he not taken to a government hospital with an isolated ward and managed by well protected health officials, and why are we having over a hundred persons under surveillance from that single incident? Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu should tell us the bitter truth, the virus caught us not prepared as usual and our fire brigade emergency attitude is now being activated to stem the tide of the deadly virus. This would have been a better speech than dishing lies to the country.
Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu is only answering the name Minister of Health and enjoying the benefits attached to the office and not the responsibility, the state of Nigeria health system is worst than ever, physicians and other health professional are alternating industrial action since he assumed office. He has failed to restore normalcy to the sector as directed by Mr President. The Minister of health like his counter part of Ministry of Interior Aba Moro will never tender his resignation letter but fabricating lies to cover his mess. Two lives have been lost, about ten others infected with the deadly Ebola disease, due to his negligence, The normal thing to do in a civilize society is resignation.
Kalu: Standing For Himself
CHIEF Orji Uzor Kalu is not facing the greatest opposition because of the political animosity the man at the helm of affairs in Umuahia, Abia State, has been showing against him. What the international business man, renowned peacemaker and ex-governor of Abia State does understand is that while he is persecuted unjustly by his perceived political foes, he is closest to his biggest miracle on earth. That could be the philosophy that has kept Kalu moving. For a long period of calmness on how his traducers in the present Abia State Government have hounded him for no fault of his through blackmails and character assassinations, the Igbere-born outspoken personality bared his mind in the article – Reign of terror by Abia triumvirate – on his Column, The Sun, Saturday, August 9 2014. It was obvious after reading that article that Kalu did not stand for pride and selfishness. Notwithstanding, some of us knew that he would face a first degree attack from the attack dogs of the government that he told the truth in the face without mincing words. They knew that Kalu hates false personification of power; he does show his love, strength and independence in the wilderness of cowards, as
By RUBBY OBINNA many people aren’t wont to showcasing. I’ve read many attacks from the government’s aides against Kalu since he published that article. But without mentioning names so that the government does not see me as one of the Kalu’s aides, I would say that Kalu did a profound analysis of ‘truth’ in that article and wish the government would learn from the points that Kalu raised therein. If Kalu hated anybody or the government in his home state, he would have been very far and would not make any contribution to better the lots in that state. But that was not the case for Kalu who is not muddled in all ramifications. Kalu is not like a growing cancer that stays silent; he does not show the trait of a coward; he does not see such trait as intelligent for anyone who does not stand for himself, according to the dictates of the society. At least, Kalu wants all to know what he stood for. Instead of attacking Kalu unreasonably, I would have preferred that the aides of the government in Umuahia saw that article as an encouragement from a father to his child to do the rightful explorations in order to
evade molestations from the society in the near future. That was how I saw Kalu’s article, not as an attack against the governor and the government in Umuahia. It is obvious that a child that does not take the rebuttals of the father does not grow and does not master the art of whatever he or she is doing. That child will be over controlled by obnoxious anxiety and will continue to fail and the outside world will continue to overrun, maneuver and control such a child to the chagrin of the father. I did not see Kalu’s position in that article like the voice of somebody that was insecure. I’ve known Kalu as a man who does not show any sign of insecurity in whatsoever and he is a man who does not falsify the past from any angle one looks at it. Kalu always makes his ways straight and his voice shows a big difference, always looking for a reason to better the lots of humanity around him; and the government in Umuahia is a part of that humanity around him. I think those calling Kalu names should have seen him as a man who does not welcome dull moments, as one who copes with difficult
times and as well, does everything within his coffers to rise above odd times. Against this backdrop, the world could see that his God is always giving him blessings, but his traducers rather than see reasons to enjoy the mammoth experiences that Kalu is embedded with, they obviously think that their hearts are full to receive any outside advise let alone Kalu’s. Any government, group or person that has no love, has no power to exhibit to the society, except fierce and steady falsification of ideas to sell to the society. This is the reason Kalu calls for love and truth through his stream of consciousness so that any group or person who is showing any sign of weakness can rise from slumber. However, one Anthon St. Maarten, as if speaking to Kalu, was quoted as saying: Never shy away from opportunity and wholehearted living. Never be fearful of putting yourself out there. The courageous may encounter many disappointments, experience profound disillusionment, gather many wounds; but cherish your scars for they are the proud emblems of a truly phenomenal life. The fearful, cautious, cynical and selfrepressed do not live at all. And that is simply no way to
• Uzor Kalu be in this world. As if speaking to the government that Kalu was writing to about truth, Susan Forward, in her work, “Toxic Parents: Overcoming Their Hurtful Legacy and Reclaiming Your Life”, says: Just as verbally and physically abused children internalize blame, so do incest victims. However, in incest, the blame is compounded by the shame. The belief that ‘it’s all my fault’ is never more intense than with the incest victim. This belief fosters strong feelings of self-loathing and shame. In addition to having somehow to cope with the actual incest, the victim must now guard against being caught and exposed as a ‘dirty, disgusting’ person.
Chief Orji Uzor Kalu should continue to stand in the shoes of compassion and tell truth to power without any form of biasness, although I have not read him as a myopic personality. He is always straight to the point. He should not degrade himself by listening to the side distracters like the aides of the government in Umuahia or bother to reply them. He should add to his solace with Israel more Ayivor’s “The Great Hand Book of Quotes”, which says, faith has won it! Fear has lost it! When you get full of faith, the devil gets filled with fear! Keep your faith in light every day and you will keep the devil in fright always! To waste a life with fear is, really, the scariest thing.
THE WEEKEND
26
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
New Revelation!!!
‘IT is not true that there is no hope of redemption after death. Those that have died still have chances of being redeemed if only they accept the gospel when Jesus Christ will preach to them in the spirit world”. This revelation was made by the Ikpokpan stake president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Lawrence Ehigiator while responding to questions in an exclusive interview with WEEKEND OBSERVER, though Richard Okoro Eweka and Ikponmwoba osuze Joel Benin City the Edo State capital. Ehigiator stated that God doesn’t derive delight in losing any soul to the devil. The belief that after death judgement, is not what Jesus Christ represents. “Christ makes us understand that as God loves those that are living, He equally loves those that are dead. “If those that die are condemned already that means they are already lost to the devil”. “But God does not want it that way as such a temple is organised by revelation to help these people to be saved on the last day. The work done in the temple is done in proxy by the power of the priesthood. When somebody dies, it is not the end for such person. When Jesus Christ was crucified and died, he went to the spirit prison to preach the gospel to those who may not have heard the gospel before they died. If they are able to accept, they stand the chance of being redeemed on the last day. Speaking further, Ehigiator said the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only church that has temple services and priesthood power. The temple is a place where ordinances are performed even for the dead. The ordinances performed in the temple gives a lot of hope to the soul of the dead of being redeemed. The ordinances can be performed for the dead only in the temple and nowhere else. THE Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints came to reality due to the quest for knowledge by a 14years old boy named Joseph Smith in 1820. His mother is a Presbyterian while his father is a Baptist. These various churches claim to be the church ordained by God and condemned each other separately but speak in unity
temple was applied in the scripture. Jesus Christ did this because he did not want his father’s house to become a market place because it is a sacred place. In the temple, there are special ordinances that are carried out”. Ehigiator said the temple is the only place where ordinances are performed on behalf of those that are dead. God is not interested in loosing any soul to Satan, “I have heard people say that after death, judgement but Christ makes us to understand that as God loves those that are living, He equally loves those that are dead and at the end everybody has the opportunity to be saved. There is a promise Christ made, that no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are baptized. But if these dead people are already condemned that means they are lost to the devil, but God doesn’t want it that way. The temple is organized by revelation to help these people to be saved at the last day. The
• Lawrence Ehigiator
Those that have died still have chances of being saved - Ehigiator, a leader, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
and oneness whenever they have convention together. In this confusion the young Joseph Smith decided to study the Bible deeply and realised that the Bible in the Book of James 1:5 asked those that lack wisdom to ask and as such started asking for wisdom. While doing this God the father and the son appeared onto him in his first revelation and spoke to him that none of these churches are truly worshiping him even though they worship him by mouth but far from him in their heart. In due time God sent an angel to minister unto him as to restore back the gospel. According to Ikpokpsan state President of the church
of Jesus Christ of latter day Saints Lawrence Ehigiator, the church is a world wide church scattered across the world in 176 countries. He said the journey of the church started in 1820 but on April 16, 1830 the church was established in New York in America. In 1982 the church came to Benin City Edo State Nigeria. The church in Benin has grown from a unit to become what we have today. Ehigiator said the church in Benin City today has 45 different branches which is addressed as ward but for convenience the church has divided these 45 unites into stake, there are many units under a stake and in Benin we have fiver (5) of such
stakes. “The church preaches restored gospel, we are neither orthodox or Pentecostal. We are preaching restored gospel as promised by Christ that all things shall be restored before his second coming. Since the restoration of the gospel, the church has continued to grow and spread across the continent of the world except for Arabic countries where Christianity is not allowed”. This is the only church that has “temple service. You know how much Christ values temple in Jerusalem that was why he drove away people that were selling in the temple. This was the only place that the love of the
work done in the temple is done by proxy”. Adding his voice the 2nd counselor Julius Gbakeji said there is redemption after death. He said there are certain persons who may not have heard of the gospel before they die. These people have a lot of hope that they would be redeemed when we do certain ordinances on their behalf in the temple. The temple is quite different from wards or churches. Whatever we do in the meeting houses are limited. It is only in the temple we can do baptism for the dead! Baptism for the dead is done in proxy, to save the soul as those that are dead. It is for the salvation of man as recorded
in 1 Cor. 15:29. We have a book called the book of Mormon, which many people do not understand. The book of Mormon is an inspiration of the revelation given to John in Rev. 22:18-21. That revelation is always misunderstood by readers of the scripture “that no one should add or subtract from the word. If you look at that chapter and look at Deut 4:2, they are speaking the same word. If we are to follow that, there shouldn’t be any other book after Deuteronomy. What this means is that the book of Deuteronomy suggests that taking ordinances from God requires that nothing should be removed or subtracted. John described the five books he wrote as the books of the old and the New Testament, so we have this book of Mormon. The book just like the Bible tells of the children of Israel, so also the book of Mormon tells of the dealings of God with the people of Israel that migrated to the present day America. They crossed the big sea about 600 years before Christ was born. The Israelites sufferings, Joy and triumph were recorded there and Christ mentioned it in the book of John 10. “I have other sheep which are not of this fold and the history was captured on what actually transpired. Lawrence Ehigiator said a lot of things have been removed from the Bible itself. In the book of Mormon, everything is mentioned that is the fullness of the gospel. We use both the bible and the book of Mormon. We have another book we use; we call “Doctrine and Covenant”. This book is of different aspects and organization of the church. The young Joseph Smith was confused about many things then, as he asked he was given revelation which was recorded and al the recorded revelation is called doctrine and covenant. “In our church, all the leaders don’t depend on members but rather, it is member that depends on leaders. We all work for our money. People imagine where we get money to build beautiful structures. The truth is that everybody pays tithe and we channel this money to places where they are needed. Various projects like giving community boreholes and other welfare packages are achieved with the money.
THE WEEKEND
27
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Today’s Diet With Pastor E. A. Adeboye
Failure Is Expensive FAILURE is defined as lack of success in a set objective or a loss of ability to function normally. Failure occurs when an event doesn’t accomplish its intended purpose. Failure usually ends up as a double tragedy because when a project fails, you lose your investment on the project and afterwards you must pay for the future repercussions of that failure. In most cases, the repercussions of failure are farreaching and irreversible. With this perspective, it is clear that failure is something of inestimable loss. However, failure always disguises itself as a normal everyday event. If you carelessly give your consent without discernment, such a seemingly normal event may develop into a serious tragedy. So it was when Sarah innocently offered her maid to Abraham to conceive a child in Genesis 16:3, and when Jacob suggested to his brother Esau to trade his birthright for pottage in Genesis 25:31. These are examples of ordinary events that resulted into terrible tragedies. I pray that you will not commit any blunder that will lead to terrible tragedies in your life in Jesus Name. What started as a generous gift of love
later developed into something that brought grief to Abraham in Genesis 21:11 Having to separate from his son was painful and as the father of Isaac (Jews) and lshmael (Arabs), we can see that: the outcome of Abrahams failure is far-reaching and irreversible as evident in the ArabIsraeli relationship today. When you consider Esau’s reaction to Jacob’s proposal, you will immediately see that he trivialised the matter. He later paid dearly for his miscalculation in his lifetime and his descendants are still paying for his careless mistake till date. Father Lord, please have mercy, and let your mercy prevail over every evil judgment and repercussion of sin and failure in our lives in the Name of Jesus! We can see from the above cases that the immediate cost of failure is expensive and the future repercussions inestimable. You cannot afford to suffer the loss
of failure, therefore you must do everything in your power to prevent and avoid it. First, you must view everything in life according to the Bible and submit totally to its authority. You must also ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all things. The fear of God and complete obedience to His commandments is the sure antidote to failure. May you never experience failure again in Jesus’ Name. Memories For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance though he sought it carefully with tears. Hebrew 12:17 Read: Hebrew 12:9-12 Bible in one year: Luke 17:11-19:27, Job 27:13-28:6 Prayer Point: Father, let every past mistake that could lead to terrible tragedies in my life be cancelled today by divine intervention, in the Name of Jesus.
“You cannot afford to suffer the loss of failure, therefore you must do everything in your power to prevent and avoid it. First, you must view everything in life according to the Bible and submit totally to its authority. You must also ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all things.”
Bishop Idahosa Charges Christians By MARTINS ERHARUYI To Be Faithful THE Bishop of Church of God Mission International (CGMI) Bishop Feb Idahosa has charged all Christians to be faithful in fulfilling God’s purpose and plan for their lives. He made this call at the Church Headquarters during her 2014 International Youth Summit tagged: “The Mandate: Commissioned and Empowered.” Reading from the book of Joshua 1:1-9, Bishop Idahosa stated that God’s purpose for every man is to be successful in all endeavour, but that fear and procrastination are the major stronghold which hinder many Christians from fulfilling purpose. He further emphasized the need to hold on to God’s purpose as the only way to
actualize all of man’s intentions, stressing that man’s intention will result to naught if it does not meet with God’s purpose. The bishop encouraged all Christians to be courageous and steadfast when faced with obstacles in their journey towards achieving God’s purpose, assuring them that such trials are not limitations but God’s strategies to prepare them for the future. He also called on all to take advantage of the forthcoming summit which is geared towards the need to empower and commission the youth to engage themselves afterwards through the various skills acquisition programmes put in place by CGMI through the summit. Also speaking at the summit,
Lt. Col. Mojo Akin-Ojo has admonished all Christians to hold on to the authority and power in God’s word instead of seeking for miracles. In his message titled: “The Man, the Ministry and the Message,” the Clergyman assured all Christians that “they can only overcome the world through God’s word which is Eternal Life.” He further advised Christians not to be careless in their spiritual life, adding that the Gospel is Spiritual, not social. He warned all to refrain from social gospel and focus on the true message of the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ which humbles man and elevates God’s power and grace.
Director of Administration and 1 st Vice Chairman, Church Council, Snr. Apostle (Dr.) David Unuefe-Ikhiuwu said the principle of grace is fundamental to Christianity, and the doctrine of grace distinguishes the Christian faith from every other religion in the world, as well as from the cults. He said Grace can
also be bestowed upon sinful men as recorded in 1 st Tim 1:12-14. He said people will follow you because you possess a relevant gift which is God’s grace (Judges 11:4-6). He called on the congregation to recognize the unfailing grace of God as it will pave a way for them in difficult times.
Osasuyi Harps On God’s Amazing Grace
By SWEETIE IDEMUDIA
THE General Overseer/Spiritual leader of Christ’s Chosen Church of God International, Most Snr. Apostle (Dr.) Joshua Osasuyi said Christians and non Christians alike should make recourse to the unfailing amazing grace of God at these turbulent times. He gave the admonition during a sermon titled; “The Grace of God in Difficult Times” at the on-going international convention of the church in Benin city. Apostle Osasuyi said Grace is a special unmerited favour from God. “The grace of God manifests in several ways and forms, such as blessing, healing, victory, deliverance, promotion, prosperity, guidance, power, revelation, salvation, wisdom, glory, and honour.” Speaking further, he said the grace of God makes one to shine and gain acceptance wherever one goes. He gave several illustrations in the bible of how grace worked for men and nations and how to receive the grace of God. Speaking on the topic “The Conquering Grace,” the
CHANGE OF NAME OGIEMWONYII formerly Miss Ivie Ogiemwonyi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Wealth Ivie Agbondinmwin. All former documents remain valid. National Youth Service Corps (NYSC),Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi and the general public should please take note.
CHANGE OF NAME CHIEMEKEI formerly called Miss Helen Ifeanyi Chiemeke is now known and called Mrs. Helen Ifeanyi Oseyem. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities and the general public should please take note.
CHANGE OF NAME
CHANGE OF NAME
AIBANGBEE- I formerly Miss Aibangbee Princess Isoken, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. Princess Gad Ogulu. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the general public should please take note.
OMOGBAI – I formerly known and addressed as Miss Juliet Zulietu Omogbai now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Juliet Zuliety Ijegbai. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities, the Edo State Judicial Service Commission and general public should please take note
CHANGE OF NAME
CHANGE OF NAME
EHIMHEN- I formerly called Miss Victory Obehi Ehimhen is now known and called Mrs. Victory Obehi Taiye Olorunnipa. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities and the general public should please take note.
ONONO - I formerly Miss Gladys I. Onono now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Gladys lzehi Dania. All former documents remain valid. The general public and concerned authorities should please take note.
AUCTION SALES
There will be a public auction sales of accidented, abandoned and unclaimed vehicles, motorcycles and household items at the following Police Divisions, Edo State command. Date of sales is three weeks from this publication, ESAN WEST DIVISION: Passat Vehicle Reg No. AG 465 USL, Toyota Solava vehicle, some motorcycles and household items EGBA DIVISION: Toyota Dyna Truck Reg. No AL 993 AUC, Land Rover Jeep Reg No. NF614 AAA, Toyota Hiace Bus Reg No. XA429 BKW, V/Wagen Santana Car, Audi 80 Car Reg. No. USL 8913 XA and some Motorcycles. EWOHIMI DIVISION: Peugeot 505 Wagon Reg No. AG 368 ASB and some motor cycles. Contact: ABU OSODIONAHON Police Auctioneer (08060382828, 0807400707)
THE WEEKEND
28
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Nigeria: Challenges And The Way Forward THE big question is what are Nigeria’s challenges? A challenge can be defined as a difficult situation, a task or an issue to be addressed. Nigeria’s challenges are numerous and cannot all be exhausted in this piece of article. Before delving into the challenging situations bedeviling our country, it is pertinent to state that the hands of every one must be on deck to sanitize the Nigerian system. The first challenge to be addressed is corruption. Corruption is the order of the day in our country today. This takes many forms and can be seen in many sectors of the country. A situation where the chief executive officer of an organization demands for “kind services” from young ladies before they are granted employment is a matter of concern. Those at the top also adopt a system of “if I do not know you before, you will not be employed in this company”. Those that have good results and excellent skills are rendered jobless, graduates who have good results are not employed in many companies because their relations do not work in those companies. This system has become a normal phenomenon in Nigerian and needs to be addressed. Unemployment has become the talk of the moment in Nigeria. What happens to our graduates after their series of studies in the tertiary institutions? This is one major cause of crime increase in Nigeria. When the graduates stay in their parents home for a long time, the next thing is the inflow of negative thoughts. This makes them to start engaging in filthy things because their minds are occupied with bad thoughts. Till today, some who graduated about four years ago and more have not seen any
area of their study to fit in, it is very disheartening that out of over 200,000 graduates that leave Nigerian tertiary education each year, few of them are able to secure employment. Another burning issue in Nigeria is the problem of insecurity. The problem of insecurity is giving many citizens of this country sleepless night. People can no longer walk comfortably on the streets. Nobody knows if bombs are planted under the ground he just wants to step on. Providing public safety and security of citizens is the most f u n d a m e n t a l responsibility of any state. Nigeria as a big state fails in this. Today, Boko Haram is a well know agent of destruction in Nigeria. Many innocent families and individuals have been wiped out, many others maimed and thousands rendered homeless while schools, market, churches, media houses have also received bitter doses of Boko Haram tragic attacks. The student seen in the northern part of the country pray for safety everyday forgetting their study because of these hidden anti-security group-Boko Haram. The New York-based rights group said from its deduction from media reports from Nigeria, more than 935 people had been killed in about 164 suspected attacks linking Boko Haram since it launched its campaign of shooting and bomb attacks in July 2008. On 1st of May, 2014, there was another bomb blast in Abuja which killed many at the bus station. The worst part of this incidence is that it happened on the workers day. How long shall we continue in this doom that ravages the country? Regrettably, crime rate has become an alarming issue in Nigeria. Crime is growing as the number of the citizens increases. From records, Nigeria was ranked the 8th most
By ABAH PIUS OGBADA
• President Goodluck Jonathan
“The first challenge to be addressed is corruption. Corruption is the order of the day in our country today. This takes many forms and can be seen in many sectors of the country.” corrupt nation in the world in 2013. As a result of frustration and despondency, many get themselves into some shady deals and all manner of illegal activities. The quest to become rich overnight has now become the order of the day. The environment and health sector are not different as the country is in great fear of the recent disease “Ebola virus”. The fear about this strange disease is the fact that even the doctors that are suppose to treat them are now being infected thereby creating fear in their hearts. If the doctors’ are being infected for treating victims of Ebola virus who then will treat them. It is however painful to say that at present, this same
disease has not gotten possible cure for it. Another angle to health matters in the country is the poor state of waste management. The habit of cleanliness should become paramount in the upbringing of our children and they should be properly enlightened on how to dispose waste. The littering of waste in the roads and streets of our communities will endanger the state of our health and it will aggravate the spread of diseases. Our medical practitioners, the doctors should be well trained and equipments should be made available by the government for them (the doctors) to be able to carryout their duties effectively and efficiently. It was reported in one of
the radio station in 2013 about a doctor in a private hospital who got the hand of a baby broken because the body got hooked which eventually led to the death of the baby. At the point when she was asked to explain the reason for that she said, “It was because there was no enough equipment in that hospital”. The question is, why not refer them to a better hospital or rather see how to get the equipment or better still call for the attention of a higher medical practitioner. How long shall we continue in this mess, the government should address this issue with urgency before we start losing precious souls who are the hope of our future generation. Generally speaking,
challenges re meant to make individuals wake up from their sleeps and find solution to the challenges or tasking situation as the case may be. It therefore behoves on the Nigerian governments to look inwards so as to come out with palliative measures to eradicate the current sad state of the country. We all as citizens should tighten our belts and stand firm to unanimous ensure that we have a country where the citizens from other neighbouring nations like Ghana, Libya e.t.c look up to live in because of the infrastructure(s) and the conducive environment where one can breath in good air. Youth empowerment should be given due consideration. Youths are the leaders of tomorrow, they should be given opportunity to use their God given talents, a situation where an office holder will want to remain in that office (position) for life should be discouraged so that youth can be opportuned to lead. Even the female youths should be encouraged to take some responsibilities. This will encourage both genders to begin to think positively on ways to better their standard of living and the country at large. Many youths are unable to secure admission because of the inability to sponsor themselves. Government should make an alternative way for them through the provision of centers for skill acquisition. An idiomatic expression states that “everyman is the architect of his own fortune” I like to put it that every nation is the architect of its own fortune. Whatever happens to our dear country is as a result of what our leaders do. Therefore, leaders in all sectors should emphasise on the transformation of our country we are well able.
THE WEEKEND
29
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Whither Nigerian Players In The Transfer Window? By EDET ELIJAH
AFRICAN Players have largely been out of the transfer headlines this summer. Maybe it is because of our level of involvement in the world cup or not. Despite extensive rumours, Nigeria’s high profile players are largely still at the clubs they were at last season. Africa generally boasts of Serge Auriers move to Paris Saint German, of course while Didier Drogba has returned to Chelsea but the headline has been dominated with the likes of Luiz Suarez, James Rodrique, Diego Costa and Alexis Sanchez. When the news of Ideye Brown’s move to English Premier League side West Bromic Albion was revealed, many Nigerian fans celebrated it as a good move. Others however, considered it demotion; Ideye was after all leaving Dynamo Kiev, domestic giants and regular European competitors for a team that struggled to avoid the drop of the championship last season. During the world cup, there were reports linking some of the Eagles top performers to top European clubs, but with the EPL season started already, those moves have largely yet to materialize. Kenneth Omeruo, arguably the best out field player in the world cup, returned back to Middlesbrough where he had spent the second half of last season. This particular transfer move
raised a few eyebrows, as many Super Eagles fans struggled to find any viable reason behind his
youngsters to a championship side rather than earn some preseason playing time, like Kurt Zouma or Nathan Ake. Similarly, the likes of Micheal Babatunde and Emmanuel Emenike were linked with moves to major European clubs,
season. John Obi Mikel and Ogenyi Onazi have all also been named as transfer targets for one side or another but the reported interest is yet to lead to anything substantial. Now victor Mosses has been loaned to Stoke City. The question many are
• John Obi Mikel
• Brown Ideye
• Victor Moses
• Kenneth Omeruo
parent club, Chelseas’s decision to send one of their highly rated
but at the time of writing this piece they are still at the clubs they were last
asking is “why then are the Super Eagles stars finding it difficult to land
decent moves to bigger clubs?” For sometime now, it has seemed that players from the African continent are less highly rated than their compatriots from Europe and South America. It is obvious that the European
media’s player rating is part of the reason why clubs generate interest in
them. African players are not getting the credits they deserve. For example, at the world cup, after the round of 16, Omeruo was statiscally above many more experienced and established centre-backs in Europe, but he rarely got rave reviews and ratings. A player like Raphael Varane, however, who made fewer tackles, blocks and interceptions despite playing a game more, was nominated for FIFA young player of the year Award. Such a nomination would surely have made Omeruo a major transfer target for most European clubs. Are African players being acknowledged as they should be? Yaya Toure also complained about this particular issue. Its a well known fact that before most of the clubs competing in Europe’s top five leagues bid for a player, his club records and not only his performance in tournaments like world cup, are considered. This is where many of Nigeria’s world cup stars fall short. In summary, one can only hope that the Super Eagles players will have an impressive season with their various clubs. This coupled with a fantastic outing at the 2015 AFCON should help make a good case for moves to bigger clubs. Perhaps, in a year’s time, there will be many more Nigerian players celebrating transfers to major European sides.
When the news of Ideye Brown’s move to English Premier League side West Bromic Albion was revealed, many Nigerian fans celebrated it as a good move. Others however, considered it demotion; Ideye was after all leaving Dynamo Kyiv, domestic giants and regular European competitors for a team that struggled to avoid the drop of the championship last season.
THE WEEKEND
30
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Barcelona Make Di Maria Offer BARCELONA have made a 60m euro (£48m) approach to Real Madrid for Angel Di Maria, according to reports in Spain. Sport claim an official from
La Blaugrana made contact with Madrid but president Florentino Perez refused to even negotiate a possible sale to Barca. Di Maria is said to want to
...Back Away From Rues BARCELONA were interested in Borussia Dortmund’s Marco Reus but are backing away as they feel he’s going to Bayern Munich next year. Marco Reus of first division Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund gestures during their German soccer cup (DFB Pokal) first round soccer match against third division soccer club Stuttgarter Kickers in Stuttgart August 16, 2014 (Reuters) Mundo Deportivo report that Barca explored the possibility of this summer signing Reus after FIFA upheld the club’s transfer ban that, pending an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, bars the club signing anyone after the current transfer window until January
2016. Reus’ contract release clause next year falls to 25m euro but Barca looked into his arrival now, only to get the impression he has already committed to joining Bayern. He would be the third Dortmund player to make the move in recent times, should it go ahead, following Mario Gotze and Robert Lewandowski.
quit Santiago Bernabeu after growing unhappy with his contract and Madrid’s refusal to meet his terms. The Argentina international is thought to want 8m euro-ayear (£6.4m), a raise on his current 3m euro-a-year (£2.4m) pay packet, and it was confirmed by Carlo Ancelotti that he has asked to leave the club. Barca attempted to exploit Di Maria’s unhappiness by tempting Los Blancos with a substantial offer, although Sport also suggest they were simply trying to exacerbate the situation between the disaffected player and his club. With Barcelona unable to
Dani Alves
Angel Di Maria
Bundesliga Best In Europe - Immobile BORUSSIA Dortmund head coach Jurgen Klopp is expecting a tough test from Bayer Leverkusen in their season opener. making in “the best league in Ciro Immobile is preparing Europe.” to make his Bundesliga debut The Italy international says this weekend, saying he is he is adapting well to playing happy with the progress he is in a new language and under a new manager in Jurgen
Alves Confident Of Enrique Revolution THE Catalan giants failed to win a major trophy last term as they were pipped to the league title by Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid. The close-season signing of Luis Suarez from Liverpool has given Barcelona another option in their outstanding attack, which already includes Lionel Messi and Neymar. The likes of Ivan Rakitic, Jeremy Mathieu and Thomas Vermaelen have also joined the club in recent months as new coach Luis Enrique prepares for a title push in 2014-15 campaign . And Alves – who has decided to stay at Barca despite reports to the contrary – is confident
sign any new players until January 2016 after world football’s governing body FIFA rejected an appeal over a transfer ban imposed for breaching rules on underage players, it makes sense for them to stock up now. However, with one of the most potent attacking line ups in football history, the Catalan club’s emphasis should be on signing defenders. This would be a vanity purchase and, while Di Maria is a remarkable player, spending near £50 million no him would not *hugely* improve their starting line-up. Also, would Real Madrid sell to their arch rivals? No chance.
Enrique can lead the club back to success. “It is a pleasure to work with someone like Luis Enrique, he demands a lot from us and in the end that is what makes us excited,” Alves said ahead of Barca’s Liga opener against Elche on Sunday. “We are working well and demanding a lot of ourselves. The target this year is a marvellous one. “I think the teams that want to keep winning titles always have to be in evolution. “We have the principal thing, which is clear ideas that are accepted by everyone. All that we need to do now is execute them.”
Klopp. “One night, [Sebastian Kehl] arrived with a list of words that I had to learn,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “It’s good to be able to understand the terms used out on the field. I’m coming along well. Massimo, my interpreter, only helps me
Ciro Immobile
when Klopp’s talking, but not even the Germans can understand him. “He speaks too quickly and he even swore in Italian the other day, although not at me.” According to Germany’s kicker magazine, Klopp has not necessarily been that satisfied with Immobile’s work, claiming that the former Torino forward is finding it hard to adapt to the tactics and instructions he is being given. “That’s a load of rubbish — I worked under [Zdenek] Zeman [at Pescara] so how could I struggle?” Immobile said. “Training is different here with lots of technical work within the same exercise. In Italy, we do a lot of counterpressing in one exercise, then shooting in another. Here, it’s all together. They’ve modernised tactically and you have to run more too.” Running is necessary to burn off the extra fat Immobile says he risks putting on as part of his new lifestyle.
Conte Counting On Giuseppe Rooki NEW Italy boss Antonio Conte has said he is “counting on” Giuseppe Rossi as he makes plans for his side. Fiorentina striker Rossi was not included in Cesare Prandelli’s World Cup squad due to doubts over his fitness, having missed almost all of last season due to a knee injury. However, new Azzurri coach Conte indicated during a trip to Florence on Thursday that Rossi has an important role to play in the Euro 2016 qualification campaign. “We’re very interested in this player,” Conte said, according to Tuttosport. “I’ve come here to talk with [Fiorentina coach] Vincenzo Montella because we’re very interested in Rossi and, together with him, we want to establish the right timeframe for the correct employment of the player. “I have faith in Montella and I’ll wait for him to explain to me Rossi’s condition, but like I said, we’re very interested in this player. We’re counting on him and he knows it.”
Rossi is unlikely to figure in the first squad Conte announces on Aug. 30, however. The 27-year-old has been ordered to rest for a week after an overburdening of the knee that was operated on earlier this year was discovered during a scan.
Antonio Conte
The former Manchester United and Villarreal forward is therefore set to miss Fiorentina’s opening Serie A fixture against Roma at the end of this month as well as Italy’s games against Netherlands and Norway.
“They eat more and more often too,” he said. “They eat at lunch, after training, after a journey; they’re always eating. I wasn’t used to eating after training, and I’m not talking about a small snack either — they have a full plate of pasta.” That will all provide fuel to help Dortmund keep up the chase of Bayern this season. “We’re not far off them,” Immobile said. “People don’t like to talk much about them here because they are the rivals who bother us the most, but we’re going to challenge them. “I’m playing in the best league in Europe.” Klopp, meanwhile, has warned his injury-stricken team that Bayer Leverkusen will be an awkward opponent in the first Bundesliga match of the season on Saturday. The German Super Cup winners take on Bayer Leverkusen at the Westfalenstadion in a rematch of their 2010-11 season opener on Saturday. Four years ago, BVB lost 20 at home, and went on to remain undefeated in the next 15 games before lifting the league title at the end of the campaign. Four years on, Borussia Dortmund go into the clash against Bayer Leverkusen as firm favourites, but will have a number of players unavailable for selection. Veteran midfielder Oliver Kirch is sidelined for eight weeks with a torn thigh muscle, while new signings Ji Dong-Won and left-back Marcel Schmelzer are also out injured with muscle injuries. The new attacker Adrian Ramos is also out with minor knee problems. World Cup winner Erik Durm did not train for most of the week, and the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Jakub Blaszczykowski and Nuri Sahin are still working on their comebacks. Centre-back Mats Hummels and Roman Weidenfeller are also major doubts. “Mats needs a bit more training, and he will get it,” Klopp told a news conference on Thursday about Hummels, who only returned to team training last week, “Especially since this position is the least of our problems.”
THE WEEKEND
31
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
Rangers Bench Gets Marching Order
FIFA Okays NFA’s Aug 26 General Assembly By EDET ELIJAH
By EDET ELIJAH, UHAGBE STANLEY THE Flying Antelopes management has asked the coaches to improve the results of the club or face sack. Enugu Rangers have won only two matches during the second half of the league and have lost all away games including the controversial 3-2 loss to Kano Pillars. In a bid to stop the rot in the team, the management of the club at a meeting held recently unanimously agree that a fresh mandate should be given to the coaches to change the fortunes of the sinking club after the way the club lost their away games under cloudy circumstance. Speaking with the media, the General Manager of the club, Paul Chibuzor Ozor said that Rangers coaches have been given another three games grace to improve the league standing of the club or be shown the exit door. Rangers are in the 15th position with 31 points from 24 matches and may be plunged into relegation zone further if they loose their next away tie to Sunshine Stars in Akure today. Ozor revealed that it is the wish of the club management and supporters that the club return to winning ways and leave the present relegation zone for good.
Sepp Blatter, FIFA President
2nd Baptist Games Begins Today By NICHOLAS EBOIGBE
THE second phase of Baptist Conference Sport Festival begins today at the University of Benin sports complex. Baptist Conference trophy Participants will take part or title from the semi finals in events such as football, scheduled to begin today, table tennis, Lawn tennis, Saturday, August 23, 2014. athletics, Tug-of-war, long The teams that would jump, triple jump, discuss, compete in this phase javelin and the throws. include Junosa FC, Faith The football teams that Motors, Echoes and BJ FC qualified from the in the Under -21. preliminary stage of the The Under-17 teams are tournament would continue Dynamic FC, Holy Rock their campaign for the Thompson and Greater light while in the under 13 category, Jaris, Paragon, Inneh and Divine would battle for the title. According to the President of the Edo State Baptist Conference, Rev. (Dr.) Frank Ezele, the second phase of the sports festival promises to be more interesting. I expect tougher contest among the different teams. This is because it is the last phase of the sport festival in which the teams will strive very hard to win the title and prizes at the grand finale.” Rev Frank Ezele, President, He said some talents Edo State Baptist Conference
Udeh Wants Winning Start With Rangers RANGERS new signing Damian Udeh has said he hopes to get off to a winning start at Sunshine Stars on Saturday. The Enugu side face a tough Nigeria league Week 25 fixture in Akure, but combative midfielder Udeh, who cut his soccer teeth with Gabros International FC, said that Rangers are fired up to win on the road. “I sincerely believe that
the Electoral Apeals Committee. WORLD Football “We take note of the governing body, FIFA has decision of the NFF endorsed the plan by the executive committee to ask Nigeria Football the members of the Federation to hold a upcoming congress on 26 General Assembly on August 2014 to consider a Tuesday, August 26, 2014 new roadmap for the to consider and approve a elections, which should be new roadmap for elections held by not later than two into the NFA Executive weeks after the congress. Committee. We also understand from In a letter dated August your correspondence that 21, addressed to NFA the members of the President, Alhaji Aminu congress will also decide Maigari and signed by on composition of the Deputy Secretary General, electoral committee whose Markus Kathner, FIFA also legacy has been put in approved of the proposal doubt by some members. for the General Assembly “The congress being the to decide on the highest decision making composition of the body of any football Electoral Committee and association, we approve of the above plan, and as preciously stated, we are supportive of an electoral process that is free and open to everybody, thereby salvation. fulfilling the requirement of This is the bottom line. the NFA regulations”. And we will pursue this set The world body also goal of soul winning in this commiserated with the NFF phase. We are earnestly over Wednesday morning pleading with God to take fire out break at its Abuja. charge of this phase, help “We would like to express build the lives of his our support for the Nigeria children and to give them Football Federation (NFA) abundant blessings.” and the staff after a fire He said it is the wish of broke out in part of its the Almighty God that headquarters. Fortunately, talents discovered will we have learnt there are no prosper in their career as casualties and we hope footballers and that they go that the NFA will recover outside the country to excel quickly from this difficult in the big European clubs. situation”.
in this my second coming to Rangers I will deliver trophies. Hopefully, I will be starting in the match against Sunshine Stars and I hope to do my best to ensure we grab the maximum points,” exEnyimba star Udeh promised. Coach John Obuh is most likely to opt for a conventional 4-4-2 formation with the striking
duo of Christian Obiozor and Chidi Edeh leading the search for goals, while Udeh, Sunday Udeagha, Bitrus Dada and Emeka Isaac anchor the midfield. Skipper Cyril Oriaku will marshal the back four. Top scorer Osagona Ighodaro will miss the road trip due to an accumulation of cautions, while Umar Abubakar is still down after a bout of malaria.
have been discovered and hope to get more during the second phase even as the gospel has been preached while the first phase lasted. As a church, we expect those who are not saved should embrace Jesus Christ in order to get
Bashir Targets Double With Enyimba ENYIMBA striker Abdulrahman Bashir has told TNFootball.com he is looking forward to help the Aba club win the league and cup double. Enyimba are already in the final of the Federation Cup and are fourth on the league table, just three points behind league leaders Kano Pillars. He also revealed why he did not join the Belgian club Charleroi, who sought after him last year. BASHIR: Bukola Babes (now ABS FC) were my first club right from when they were playing nonleague football before I joined Enyimba. How many years did you spend at ABS FC? I was there for about six and a half years. How was the experience playing for ABS FC for that long period? My experience at ABS FC was great. The club were like a stepping stone for me to greater heights because I learnt a lot of things there especially how to be disciplined. ABS fans adored you, is it the same with Enyimba
fans? It is true ABS fans loved me, and I appreciated them too. Enyimba fans have been great as well. When was your best moment at ABS? I had many good memories at ABS, but I will pick 2010 when I scored 11 goals in the league. How many goals have you scored in the league this season for Enyimba and how many more do you wish to score? I have scored four goals already, and I want to score more. I will keep doing my best for the team to achieve success. I am looking at getting at least 15 goals this season.
Abdulrahman Bashir
What are your targets with Enyimba this season? My target is to win all the trophies at stake. I want to win the Federation Cup and the league championship with Enyimba. Dolphins will battle Enyimba for the Federation Cup, what should we expect? Dolphins are a big team and equally good, but are not unbeatable. Though I expect tough final, we will not take them for granted. Insha Allah Enyimba will retain the cup. There was a time you were to have signed for a club in Belgium, Charleroi, what happened that you eventually did not do so? That was true, but the offer was not good enough, so I pulled out of the deal. How was the national team experience for you? I was called to the U20 team in 2010, but I didn’t make the final list. The experience there was good, the players there then were good, they were so committed.
THE WEEKEND
32
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
CMYK
English Premier League...English Premier League...English Premier League... Redknapp Expects Good Balotelli Could Face Man City On Reception On Return To Monday
QUEENS Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp is expecting a good reception on Sunday when his new club play away to Tottenham Hotspur, who sacked him two years ago despite finishing fourth in the Premier League. But he told the QPR website (www.qpr.co.uk) that he was only concerned about his newly promoted team picking up their first points of the season after losing at home to Hull City last weekend. “I shouldn’t get a bad reception, but that doesn’t concern me,” Redknapp said. “All I’m worried about is my QPR team going there and putting on a performance and hopefully getting all three points. “They are a top side who should be pushing for the top four, like they were when I was there.” Redknapp was upset to be dismissed by Spurs after finishing fourth twice in three seasons and fifth once. They qualified for the Champions League in 2010, reaching the quarter-final but were denied a place in 2012 because had Chelsea won the previous season’s competition, taking the fourth spot
Sam Allardyce
Tottenham
available to English clubs. Earlier that year Redknapp had been strongly tipped to become the new England manager but the job went to Roy Hodgson. QPR have signed three new players in the past week. Two of them, Leroy Fer and Mauricio Isla, are available for Sunday’s game but the club said Eduardo Vargas is awaiting a work permit.
Mario Balotelli
Rossoneri’s Milanello training ground. Milan followed that later with a statement on their website revealing Balotelli had said his farewells to his teammates. Liverpool have been looking for a marquee striker to replace the departed Luis Suarez this summer but their interest in Balotelli represents a remarkable about-turn from three weeks ago. When the Merseysiders played Milan in a friendly in the United States, manager
Martinez Ready For Trial By Gunners
EVERTON boss Roberto Martinez expects his summer’s work to be put to the test as Arsenal visit Goodison Park this weekend. Martinez’s side, who finished fifth in the Barclays Premier League last season, opened their new campaign with a 2-2 draw at Leicester last weekend. Although frustrated to be held to a point, Martinez was pleased with many aspects of the performance and is encouraged for the year ahead. But he accepts that FA Cup winners Arsenal, who are hoping to mount a stronger title challenge this season, will provide a greater yardstick for his side’s position. The intensity will not drop next week either, with Chelsea travelling to the blue half of Merseyside. Martinez said: “You need to face this sort of
opposition. “What we saw last weekend is that we are really fluid in possession. The thing we need to change is that mentality to keep going forward and keep scoring goals. We didn’t get that cushion that could have given us three points. “But if you look at the positives of the first half I am really excited looking at this game. “It is true that until you play against sides like Arsenal and Chelsea you don’t have the answers on the pitch. “As a team we are ready. I feel pre-season was perfect, a real
defender Mapou YangaMbiwa picked up a knock in training last week and full-back Davide Santon is unlikely to return to the squad until November after undergoing knee surgery during the closed season. Provisional squad: Krul, Elliot, Janmaat, Dummett, Haidara, Coloccini, Wiliamson, S Taylor, Anita, Abeid, Gouffran, Sissoko, Colback, Cabella, De Jong, Obertan, Aarons, Riviere, Ferreyra, Perez.
success. “Now we have to make sure we are as strong a team as we can be. You can only see that when you face opposition like we are going to face at the weekend.” With a month of last season remaining, Everton sat above Arsenal in fourth place but they faltered and eventually finished seven points behind the Gunners. This term they hope to sustain a longer challenge for a Champions League spot but Martinez expects the competition to be tighter. He said: “The league is going to be a lot more open than people think. “I see five teams with
equal chances of winning the title and I think it is going to go come down to small margins. I expect this competition to be the tightest we have ever seen.” Arsenal were involved in midweek action having travelled to Turkey for a Champions League play-off against Besiktas. Martinez does not think that will affect the Gunners negatively and,
having also played in the Community Shield, they may even boast greater match-fitness. He said: “They have got a big enough squad and the mentality to cope. “It can be a positive as you can get rid of that rustiness and into a competitive frame of mind straight away. “Clearly when you are involved in such an important game like in
EPL Fixtures TODAY, SATURDAY Aston Villa vs Newcastle United Chelsea vs Leicester City Crystal Palace vs West Ham United Southampton vs West Bromwich Albion Swansea City vs Burnley Everton vs Arsenal SUNDAY Hull City vs Stoke City Tottenham Hotspur vs QPR Sunderland vs Manchester United
Magpies Debut For De Jong
SUMMER signing Siem de Jong could be handed a Barclays Premier League debut as Newcastle head for Aston Villa on Saturday. Former Ajax midfielder De Jong is available after missing the opener against Manchester City with the foot injury he suffered in pre-season, and will be joined in the squad by loan striker Facundo Ferreyra for the first time. Midfielder Cheick Tiote will sit out once again with a hamstring problem, while central
MARIO Balotelli could play against former club Manchester City on Monday as Liverpool move closer to signing the controversial striker. Unsubstantiated but growing reports have suggested the Anfield club are in talks with the mercurial 24-year-old after agreeing a £16million fee with AC Milan. Liverpool have not commented but Press Association Sport understands the Reds’ interest in the player is genuine and firm. Adding credence to the reports was a comment from Balotelli stating that Thursday would be his last day at the
Manchester City
MONDAY vs Liverpool
Spanish league Fixtures
Siem de Jong
MalagaMalaga Athletic BilbaoAthletic Bilbao 5:00 PM GMT Game Details GranadaGranada Deportivo La CoruñaDeportivo La Coruña 7:00 PM GMT Game Details Sevilla FCSevilla FC ValenciaValencia 7:00 PM GMT Game Details AlmeriaAlmeria Espanyol Espanyol 9:00 PM GMT Game Details
Brendan Rodgers expressed admiration for Balotelli but “categorically” said he was not a target. Recently, however, a move for QPR’s Loic Remy has collapsed while interest in former Chelsea striker Samuel Eto’o has cooled and attempts to sign Radamel Falcao from Monaco seem unrealistic. With new signing Rickie Lambert the only frontline support for Daniel Sturridge and the transfer deadline nearing, a move for Balotelli may have become more attractive. Balotelli is a proven performer and scored 16 times for Milan last season, as well as Italy’s winner in the World Cup opener against England in Manaus. But the baggage that comes with him is considerable. His spell at City from summer 2010 to January last year was a whirlwind one, with occasional sparkling p e r f o r m a n c e s interspersed with volatility on the field and erratic behaviour off it. His numerous misdemeanours famously included fireworks being set off in his bathroom, throwing a dart at a youth-team player and trainingground bust-ups with team-mates and manager Roberto Mancini. On the positive side he played a key role in the 2011 FA Cup win and contributed to the following year’s Premier League success, but he also hindered progress by accruing four red cards. City eventually tired of the circus surrounding him and offloaded the former Inter Milan player to his boyhood club AC Milan, at a £6million loss, for £19million. Remarkably, if discussions with Liverpool advance, he could be back at the Etihad Stadium next week as the Reds travel to Eastlands in the Barclays Premier League. “It’s my last day at Milanello,” Balotelli said on Sky Italia, fuelling the speculation. The Serie A club’s website, www.acmilan.it, later reported: “Mario Balotelli left Milanello’s sporting centre at 13.30, after saying goodbye to his team-mates. “Before leaving the premises, the striker has said goodbye to members of Milan’s press office.”
Printed and published by Bendel Newspapers Company Limited, 24, Airport Road, P.M.B. 1334 Benin City. Telephone; Lagos: 01 4930929, Benin: 052 257492, 257531
Ag. Editor: OSAZUA IVBAZE (08143143897). Deputy General Manager (Marketing) (08023457566), Assistant General Manager (Advertisement) (08023808856) Lagos Office: 25A Alli Street, Off Tinubu Square, Lagos Island, Lagos. Abuja Office: Floor 1, Edo House, 75 Ralph Shodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja. Tel/Fax: 09-5237631. All correspondence to: 24 Airport Road, Benin City. E-mail: nigerianobserver@yahoo.com (ISSN 0331-2674)
THE WEEKEND
33
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
THE WEEKEND
34
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
THE WEEKEND
35
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014
THE WEEKEND
36
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2014