Nigerian observer 25 10 2013 by Nigerian Observer

THE NIGERIAN

The Nigerian

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vol . 38 NO.340• FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013 • N100.00 INSIGHT Pages 16-17

Addressing violence against women/girl child

Effective legislature, foundation By JOSES SEDE Mark for democracy -parliaments ABUJA - Establishing a and democracy requires political institutions that are able and willing to fully represent the interests and demands of the

people. Making the foregoing assertion yesterday, while unveiling the “1st Africa Legislative

Summit 2013 official logo at the National Assembly, Senate President David Mark stressed that “this is precisely what

legislatures are about”. The senate president further noted that Continues on page 2

Federation Account

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Reps to conduct public hearing

ART AND CULTURE Page 19

Godstick in culture

ABUJA - The House of Representatives yesterday in Abuja mandated three committees to conduct a public hearing on the full disclosure of the state of the Federation Account. which was adopted by The lawmakers said the the House when put to public hearing was geared vote by the Speaker, toward finding out the Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal. exact economic situation The motion is entitled: in the country. “Need for Full Disclosure The committees to carry out the assignment are Finance, Appropriation and Loans and Aids. The House said that the Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, heads of revenue yielding agencies and other related organisations were expected to be at the hearing. The resolution followed a motion by Rep. Bimbo Daramola (APC- Ekiti),

of the State of Account of the Federation Account and Economic Situation of our Country”. Daramola, while arguing on the merit of the motion, said ‘’the Constitution of the Federal Republic of

Nigeria in Section 162(1) provides that the federation shall maintain a special account called the Federation Account’’. He said that Section 162(3) stated that any amount standing to the credit of the Federation Account shall be

distributed among the Federal, State and Local Governments in terms prescribed by the National Assembly. “The benchmark in the 2013 appropriation is 79 dollars per barrel, and to date oil sales has not fallen below 100 dollar

per barrel,’’ he said. According to him, the past three to four months have witnessed exchanges between the Minister of Finance and the state governors over partial releases of the allocation from the Continues on page 2

ASUU gives condition to call off strike By ANDY EGBON/ INNOCENT OMOAKA/ ISEMHENBITA FAITH

BENIN CITY - The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has said the demand on the union to call off its four months old strike is a recipe for prolonging the strike. The University of Benin (UNIBEN) chapter of the union said yesterday that the moment federal g o v e r n m e n t

implements ASUU’s demands, the strike would be called off. The union’s position was declared yesterday by the UNIBEN ASUU during a peaceful protest to the palace of the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council Press Centre in Benin City. The peaceful protest was to enlist the assistance of the Benin Continues on page 2

TIT BIT

“When a man stops loving his fellow, he would be looking for ways to forcefully rule him.” - Kingsley Ogbeide-Ihama

PROTEST: Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Benin (UNIBEN) Chapter during a protest to the palace of the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa and the NUJ Press Centre, Edo State Council yesterday. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

Christian leaders to pray for Nigeria

By VICTOR IMADE BENIN CITY-The President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor and the National President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Dr. Felix Omobude will lead over l00,000 Christian’s clerics and faithful within and outside Nigeria to pray for the well being of the country next week in Benn City. The one week spiritual

event will take place at the Gospel Light International Ministries (GLIM)- New Covenant Gospel Church, Benin City, Edo State from

October 28 to November 3, 2013. According to a press statement issued in Benin City by Dr., Felix

Omobude who is also the President-General of the Gospel Light International Ministries, the prayer event is part of the one week annual

convention of the church tagged Bible Alive Believers International Convention (BABIC) with the theme: Triumphant Always. Dr. Omobude disclosed that other key Continues on page 2

Leadership of I n d e p e n d e n t Petroleum Marketers

(IPMAN) has been enjoined to ensure equitable distribution of

petroleum products in the state. This charge was given

State Petroleum and Gas Monitoring, Hon. Continues on page 2

Petroleum monitoring boss tasks By ADAMS OYIBOKE IPMAN kerosene on distribution and other by the Chairman, Edo BENIN CITY – The Association of Nigeria

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

News

Effective legislature, foundation for more responsibilities effectively. democracy effective legislatures Earlier, president of the he on them”, he continued.

Continued from page 1

contribute to effective governance by performing important functions necessary to sustain democracy in complex and diverse societies. He however regretted that the legislatures in Africa were groaning under the weight of executive interference and resource deficits in the face of growing demands on them by the hapless people whom they represent. “Emerging legislatures are under significant stresses that include contextual issues such as underdevelopment, executive interference in some cases and also staff and resources deficit as managers and staff of parliaments struggle to meet the growing demands placed

To this end, Senate President Mark submitted that, emerging legislatures needed more skilled staff better information system, additional office space, and other capacities to help them carry out their representation, law-making, and oversight roles more effectively. “Member of parliaments need strategically place themselves in positions that will enable them become effective leaders in the socioeconomic and political development processes of their countries and the continent. MPs need to retool themselves to drive the process of good governance and effective representation;

MPs need to develop confidence and a sense of commonality across the Africa region; MPs need to define Africa’s interests and realize those interests within the global communities” he added. Senator Mark however explained that it was to achieve the stated goals that the medium of the Africa Legislative Summit was being instituted, to become an influential and effective institution in Africa and global politics. On the home front, submitted that contrary to certain cynical views, Nigerian legislatures were making giant strides to exercise greater influence over government policies and carry out their oversight

Summit, Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba explained that the Summit was being put in place as a medium for legislators and stakeholders to deliberate on current issues and developments relating to the effective functioning of African parliaments, national economies and democracies. He acknowledged President Goodluck Jonathan’s support for the Summit by personally signing invitation letters that were meant for distribution to African Heads of State. The logo consists of the map of Africa embellished with different colors to show diversity of the continent from the South to the North, and East and West.

Christian leaders to pray for Nigeria Continued from page 1 clergy men to grace the Christian event include Bishop Mike Okonkwo, Dr. Uma Ukpai, Bishop Simeon Okah, amongst other Christian leaders from Europe, America, Africa and a host of others. The PFN national President further said special prayers will be offered to God to help the nation overcome her pressing needs and problems especially the challenges of terrorism, violent crimes, kidnapping and corruption as well as the spiritual, economic and social well-being of the country.

look to in the future. “1 believe this is a great nation. Although we may not have accomplished all that we desire, but Nigeria is a great nation”, adding that “Nigeria will rise to a greater place of prominence in the comity of nations. There is no doubt about it”, he added. Dr Omobude who however charged politicians to play the game of politics according to the laid down rules, called on all Nigerians particularly public office holders to eschew corruption in all its ramifications to ensure the rapid growth, development and stability of country.

He stated that during the one week event, prayers will be offered to God for the spiritual, political and economic upliftment of the nation and for the peace and well-being of the people. “It is our expectation that Nigerians in particular and Nigeria as a country will witness the mighty visitation of God during and after the convention as issues bothering on the welfare and safety of this nation as well as the progress and development of our country

will be handled in prayer. “There shall be a harvest of miracles, signs and wonders. We have God’s assurance that the lame will walk, the blind will see, the deaf will hear, the captive set free. It shall be healing galore and the church will be strengthened, “Dr. Omobude stated. On the future of Nigeria, Rev. Dr. Felix Omobude opined that the challenges the nation is facing now are pointers to the fact that there is something reasonable to

House to do what is “right” as representatives of the people. Rep. John Enoh (PDPCross/ River), and Rep. Farouk Lawan ( PDP- Kano), who

spoke during the debate, also supported the motion. Lawan said: “It is obvious that this House needs to find out about the management of our

economy.” The motion was not opposed and was referred to the relevant committees for more action

NIGERIAN OBSERVER, the newly elected chairman of IPMAN, David Ikhuoria reiterated the commitment of the union at the Depot towards ensuring availability of petroleum products especially kerosene to the people of Edo State. Ikhuoria used the visit of the state Petroleum and Gas Monitoring Chairman to solicit the support of the state government in

of kerosene and other petroleum products to the Benin Depot. The monitoring team also made a stop over at the NNPC Benin Depot where he solicited the co-operation of management and staff of the Depot for regular supply of petroleum products as the yuletide approaches. The Edo State Petroleum and Gas/Monitoring team also visited some filling stations within Benin metropolis.

Reps to conduct public hearing

Continued from page 1

Federation Account due to the states. He expressed concern that some state governments were already unable to meet their statutory responsibilities such as payment of salaries due to the non release of their allocations. According to him, despite “profuse reassurances’ from the Minister of Finance that the economy is growing and government is meeting all obligations as when due, the situation remains unchanged. “There are manifest scenarios in the country such as the non remittance of full amounts due to states and improper funding or fund releases for capital projects, “ Daramola said. Speaking in support of the motion, Rep. Ibrahim Gusau (APC-Zamfara) urged the

Petroleum monitoring boss tasks IPMAN on distribution ensuring constant delivery

Continued from page 1 Ch ris Okaeben when he paid a courtesy call on the new Executive of IPMAN in Benin City. Hon. Okaeben said he was also at the secretariat of IPMAN to congratulate its new executive on their well deserved elections. He enjoined them to address the equitable distribution of kerosene and other petroleum products in the state. Speaking with The

ASUU gives condition to call off strike

Continued from page 1

Monarch and journalists to prevail on the federal government to implement the agreement it freely entered into with the union. The union which spoke through several of its members said government has not shown any political will to reposition the education sector, rather government had evolved a subtle means to cripple public universities so that private universities could flourish. “These private universities being founded are mostly owned by past and present political leaders of the country”. “If government is serious with funding the country’s

education, they should organize a fund raising where people would contribute to meet up with the demand to fund the sector”, the union said. The union noted that the resolution of the National Assembly for ASUU to end the strike is unfortunate as nothing is being said about implementing the demands. “The argument that those who negotiated the 2009 agreement did so in ignorance is unfortunate as credible Nigerians like the Comrade Governor (Adams Oshiomhole) Revd Fr. Theophilus Uwaifo, President Goodluck Jonathan who was the Vice President are all party to the agreement before it was signed by the late President Umaru Yar’a dua.

The union noted that, “it is no longer time for appeals for ASUU to end the strike, what is needed now is implementation and not negotiation. “You cannot have agreement and say let us negotiate; should we repudiate the agreement earlier reached. “Between the period of 2009 agreement and before this recent strike, the government did nothing to call ASUU to clarify the gray areas in the agreement”. The union doubted the sincerity of government in getting the union to call off its ongoing strike, saying, “If the government is sincere, we should be invited to a press debate on the 2009 agreement.

The NUJ Chairman in his response while acknowledging the decay in the nation’s educational sector said the political class is lacking in political will to bring the ASUU strike to an end. He however faulted the delay in taking the present stance, saying that the state of the education system would have long received the desired attention. He cautioned ASUU to guide against divide and rule system among its members which he said frustrated previous efforts in this direction. With the present scenario, the NUJ boss noted Education for all by the year 2015 and the Vision 20: 2020 is unattainable.

Free Medicare: By RAYMOND OSOGBE

Communities hail Ativie

BENIN CITY- Hon. Elizabeth Ativie free health initiative has been appreciated by and applauded by the people of Ugonoba, I gieduma and Uhi communities respectively. This was disclosed by the Enogie of Igieduma, his royal highness, Ewansetin Eholor, Pa Odionwe of Ugonoba and Pa Nelson Ameigbeowan, the Odionwere of Ikoga-Uhi mere speaking with The NIGERIAN OBSERVER after undergoing the free health exercise in their various communities the Odionwere of Ugonoba referred to Hon Ativie as somebody with compassion for her constituents. In the same vein, Hon. George Edigi chairman of Hon. Ativie local organizing committee of the free health initiative emphasized that the project is not only a reality but an outstanding stakeholders to always give back to the

people. Similarly, Enogie Ewansetin of Igieduma extended immense gratitude to Hon Ativie, who is the only female legislator in Edo State House of Assembly for extending her free health project to his domain. Also other beneficiaries equally expressed gratitude to Hon Ativie for her kind gesture. A nonagerierian, Nelson Amlegbeomwon, Odionwere of Ikogaextended Kudos to the female legislator for her generosity. Our findings revealed that more than one thousand persons benefited from the free health initiative across the three communities. Meanwhile the free health train moves to urokhuosa community in Umagbae North of Uhof Uhunmwode Local Government Area tomorrow.

Edo butchers Union dissociates self from protest By BERNADETTE IDALU

BENIN CITY – The Edo State Chairman of the Butchers Union of Nigeria has dissociated himself and members of the union from the recent protest credited to the union. The Chairman, Pastor Ikpomwosa Orhue speaking to The NIGERIAN OBSERVER stated that members of the union were at peace for strife. He noted that the recent protest was spear-headed by the ex-chairman of the union, Sony Omokaro and his

associates. He encourages members of the public to discountenance what he said as it was not a true reflection of the opinion of members. Commending the state government for its effort at settling the internal disputes in the union and for regulating the activities of the union, Pastor Ikpomwosa promised to ensure the eradication of unwholesome meat as well as stick with best practices. Efforts to reach Sony Omokaro for his comment proved abortive as he was not around.

NGO launches volunteer teachers scheme BENIN CITY – The Center for Development and Cultural Interchange (CDCI) has launched the ‘Volunteer Teachers Scheme’ (VTS) in partnership with the Edo State Ministry of Higher Education. In his remarks at the occasion which held at the St Paul’s Catholic Church Youth Center on Wednesday, 23 October 2013, the Executive Director of the center, Mr. Emmanuel Sule said that the scheme is

designed to recruit professionals, university graduates and National Certificate of Education holders. He explained that they would be trained and posted to work as volunteer teachers in primary and secondary schools across the 18 local areas of Edo State for an initial period of one year, pointing out that the aim is to improve the teaching standards in Edo State primary and secondary schools.

National dialogue unnecessary - Hon. Ehighalua By BERNADETTE IDALU BENIN CITY – Hon. Ehighalua Monday, the member representing Esan West Constituency at the Edo State House of Assembly has laid credence to the fact that the national dialogue is unnecessary. Reacting to the information of the proposed National Dialogue/Conference which will visit Edo State on Monday, October 28, 2013, he posited that the present political structure was strong enough to accommodate all shades of opinion. Frowning at the conference he observed that what proponent of the dialogue should have done was to join an existing political party, change the

manifestoes/constitutions of such parties, present such issues and canvas them in campaigns so that Nigerians should vote in support or against their proposal. Hon. Ehighalua says he envisaged a technical problem concerning representation wondering whose opinion would sail through at the end of the day based on the local government, state, senatorial or ethnic groups they hail from. He opined that the idea of the national dialogue was petty and undemocratic since there is a National Assembly in place which would look at whatever decision arrived at and final decisions are subject to their ratification.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

No Lives Lost During Eld-El-Kabir Festival

News

- Sector Commander

KANO-Mr Garba Ibrahim, the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Kano State, has said that no lives were lost in road accidents in the state during the justconcluded Eid-el-Kabir festival. Ibrahim said this in an interview with newsmen in Kano. He said that only three accidents were recorded during the period and that the six travellers, who were injured, were treated in nearby hospitals. “The major cause of the accidents was over-speeding and overloading. “Most of the drivers think

LG Polls Speaker Cautions Against Violence BOKKOS (PLATEAU) The Speaker of Plateau House of Assembly, Mr Titus Alams, has advised aspirants in the forthcoming council polls in the state to refrain from politics of bitterness during their campaigns. Alams gave the advice in Bokkos, Bokkos Local Government Area, during PDP’s stakeholders meeting. The speaker urged the aspirants to guard against violence and campaign of calumny in enhancing the success of the polls. “Any act, weather in words or actions that will not allow the smooth conduct of our council elections should be discarded forthwith. “It is the belief of the PDP and the government of Plateau that all the aspirants will avoid any act capable of undermining and jeopardising the relative peace being enjoyed in the state,” he said. The speaker enjoined all the PDP aspirants to exhibit good character during the campaign and election period. He said that elections should not be a do or die affair but civic responsibility that must be taken seriously and conducted in a respectable and responsible manner Also speaking, Mr Steven Malau, a former Rector of Plateau Polytechnic and convener of the meeting, said that the meeting was meant to give room for positive deliberations for the PDP’s victory. Malau said that all PDP aspirants for councillorship and chairmanship should be allowed to take part in the party’s primaries, adding that the party should not adopt consensus candidates. “This will go a long way to give all aspirants a level playing ground to prove their popularity in the party and to discourage any crisis or rancour, ‘’ he said.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo, Wife of the Governor of Benue, Mrs. Yemisi Suswan and G o v e r n o r Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, at the Conference of Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) in Lagos recently.

first of the profit they will m ake in increasing their turnover of passengers during the festival. “The corps were able to reduce the rate of accident with the two-night patrols we embarked upon,” Ibrahim said. He said that 600 officers were deployed to main various roads, including Wudil, Bichi and Chiromawa. The sector commander said that during the period, motorists and other road users were arrested for various offences, including abuse of seat belt, expired driving licence as well as underage driving.

Man, 29, Docked Over N320,000 Theft

LAGOS- A 29-year-old man, Richard Akayioku, who allegedly bolted with his employer’s N320,000 , was docked at an Apapa Senior Magistrates’ Court in Lagos. Akayioku, who resides at Ajegunle area of Apapa, is

facing a charge of stealing. The prosecutor, Sgt. Uche Simon, said the accused, who was an employee of Galaxy Hotels Ltd., Safejo Road, Amukoko, Lagos, committed the offence on October. 4. According to him, the

accused stole the N320,000 from the coffers of the hotel while on duty. The accused was apprehended the following day and handed over to the police when his employer discovered that the money was missing, he told the court.

Simon said the offence contravened Section 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos tate, 2011. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty. Ruling on the bail application of the accused, the Senior Magistrate, Mr

M.K. Fadeyi, granted him bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum. Reports state that the accused, if found guilty, may be sentenced to three years imprisonment. The case was adjourned to November 22 for further hearing.

Owerri Hotel Apologises For Shortcomings

Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State congratulates Mr. Samuel Oboh, after being sworn-in as Chairman, Esan North East Local Government Area of the State Wednesday.

ACD, Not Into Money Politics - Chairman

AWKA- The Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD) plans to establish a welfare package for the people of Anambra rather than distribute money during campaigns, its Chairman, Mrs. Oby Okafor, has said. Okafor told newsmen in Awka that the party was not into money politics and did not believe in distributing money to the electorate to vote for its candidate in the November 16 governorship election She said the party planned to build poor people’s home in the 21 council areas so that the poor

and the unemployed could receive welfare package from them. Okafor said an ACD administration would construct an international airport in the state and uplift Awka into a befitting capital city within 12 months of being in the office. She said the party’s candidate, Dr Ifeatu Ekelem, a professor of medicine, had been traversing the state trying to sell the party’

programme. The chairman said the party would work on youth empowerment as a tool to fight crimes like kidnapping and armed robbery, among others. She said infant mortality and the security challenges in the state would become history if the party got elected. Okafor said the party’s candidate remained the best candidate to lead Anambra by

March 17 when the incumbent, Mr Peter Obi, would hand over. “ACD has the best candidate in the election. We are in the race and we will get to the end. “Our motive is to get to the government house in 2014. We will win the election,” she said. She said the party would soon start its campaign rallies as it had been planning for a grand ceremony.

OWERRI- The management of Imo Concorde Hotel, Owerri, has apologised to its customers for the shortcomings in its services in the past three months. Mr Ekene Nnabuihe, the Group Sales Manager of ABM, the company managing the facility, said it was working round the clock to put it back in shape. Nnabuihe regretted the inconveniences the power outage in the complex had caused its guests. “We apologise for any inconveniences they may have experienced and we thank all our esteemed guests both individual and corporate for their understanding during our trying times,’’ he said. He said the power problem had since been fixed with the purchase of two power generators and that the hotel’s facilities had generally been given a facelift to serve the guests better. Nnabuihe said the management had also extended the duration of the hotel’s promotional price slash to encourage the customers. It will be recalled that the state government leased the hotel to the ABM group for 20 years.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

News Katsina Reviews Weigh-In Allowance For Journalists, Others KATSINA - The Katsina State Government has approved an up-ward review of the weigh-in allowance for workers in its media organisations. The state Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Hussaini Garba, told newsmen in Katsina that the allowance was reviewed from 12.5 per cent to 17.5 per cent of the workers’ salaries. He said that workers in the state Ministry of Information and Culture Bureau would benefit from the gesture along with workers in its radio and television stations. Garba said that payment of the enhanced allowance would take effect from this

month. According to 400 workers, journalists, beneficiaries. Garba said

him, about including are the that the

government would continue to be committed to the welfare of its workers. The commissioner appealed to the beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by working harder.

ILORIN - The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdul Ganiyu Ambali, has appealed to the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to embrace dialogue in order to end the ongoing strike by lecturers.

Strike: UNILORIN VC

Pleads With FG, ASUU Ambali made the appeal in Ilorin at the Founders’ Day and 29th Convocation Ceremony of the university. “We should always put the interest of the students first and do all things necessary

Pa Omorogbe For Burial ALL is now set for the burial ceremony of late Pa Nicholas Okhiokpamwonyi Omorogbe of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area who died after a protracted illness. He is survived by 28 children, many grand children, great grand children and great great grand children. In a tribute Mrs. Oyenmwen Obaruyi asserted that she misses her father so much because she cherish him more than any other person in this world saying that the vacum created by his death can never be filled. The funeral ceremony is slated for October 26, 2013, at his residence, No. 201 second East Circular Road, Benin City, beginning at 1pm.

Hon. Elizabeth Ativie, member representing Uhunmwode Constituency in Edo State House of Assembly (left), with Chief Sunday Eromosele, the Uwangue of Ughianwen during Hon. Ativie’s free Medical treatment programme at Ughianwen recently. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

Cassava Bread

FG Trains Master Bakers From North West

SOKOTO - The federal government has commenced the training of 70 master bakers from the northwest on cassava bread, an official of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has said. Mrs. Adewolu Olajumoke told newsmen that in Sokoto that the two-day training was organised by the ministry in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Olajumoke, an assistant chief agriculture officer, said the participants were drawn from

Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina and Kaduna states. She said the workshop was to encourage the master bakers to include high quality cassava flour in their products. “Twenty per cent of all their products would henceforth be cassava. It will not be business as usual,” she said. Olajumoke also said the

federal government was encouraging the local production of high quality cassava flour. “The federal government is providing free cassava cuttings, agro-chemicals, soft loans and other incentives. “The government also plans to support cluster farming of cassava locally, while it had purchased seven compact

milling machines for mixing the required quantity of cassava and flour in all the products. “One of these machines will be installed in each of the six geopolitical zones and Abuja for the training of the master bakers in this direction,” Olajumoke, added. The Director in charge of the Sokoto office of the ministry, Dr Jubril Enessy, also said the federal government was committed to the realisation of the objective.

Elder Bamidele For Burial BENIN CITY – The death has been announced of Elder Samuel Bamidele. The late Elder Eke died July 11, 2013 at the age of 73 years. He is survived by a wife, 11

• Late Elder Samuel Bamidele

Children, 13 grand children, foster children, brothers and sister. A statement signed by Mr. Godwin Eke, Mr. Omoruyi Anthony Eke and Mr. Prestige Osemwengie Eke stated that the burial arrangement began yesterday with the remains taken in a ………………from Gods care mortuary to his residence, No. 9 Eheneden street of Ekewan Road, Benin city and service of songs at same venue. According to the statement, there would be family rites/ interment at his residence today at and socials/entertainment of quest at noon. The burial ceremony would climax on Sunday at 10am with thanksgiving service at Temple of Christ Church, No. 22 Eheneden Lane, Benin City.

His Royal Highness Edward Obamogie, the Enogie of Ughianwen (right), undergoing medical test during Hon. Ativie’s free Medical treatment programme at Ughianwen recently. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

to ensure that they are not left idle even for a minute,” the vice chancellor said. He warned that students not in school may become vulnerable to anti-social acts. “It is my hope that it shall be victory at last for all the parties involved in the current challenges facing many Nigerian universities just as it is victory at last for the graduands before you today,” he said. He said that out of the 6, 851 students that graduated in the current academic year, 5,882 bagged first degrees. According to him, 14 out of the first degree graduates have first class. He said that the university would continue to monitor the progress of the graduands with the data available to it.

Pa Osakue Burial Begins Today By INNOCENT OMOAKA

BENIN CITY – The family of Osakue Oviasuyi of Oghada in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State has announced the burial ceremony of their son, brother, son-in-law, father and grandfather, late Mr. George Enoragbon Osakue who died on April 18, 2013. He was aged 77 years. According to a statement signed by Mr. Solomon Osasuyi, the Service of Songs will hold today October 25, 2013 at his residence, Line 24, Block 2, Army Barrack Ikpoba Hill, Benin City by 3pm. The body leaves Time Mortuary to his house behind Jehovah Witness Camp around Ikhueniro, Benin – Agbor Road for interment which is to be followed by social dance by 12 noon. The statement added that thanksgiving to climax the burial ceremony would held on Sunday October 27, 2013 at C.A.C Iwogben, Benin City by 9am.

• Late Mr. George Enoragbon Osakue

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

News Customs Impounds Contraband, OWERRI - The Nigeria State, Benin in Edo and Arrest 5 inPortImoHarcourt Customs Service (NCS) Zone axis.

The Spiritual Leader of Christ Chosen Church of God International, Most Snr Apostle Dr. Joshua Osasuyi exchanging pleasantries with Ilugo Cletus, member Central Working Committee and Moderator Day One 2013 National Youth Convention of Christ Chosen Church of God at the Central Cathedral Church, Benin City. Photo: MOSES OBOH.

‘C’, in Owerri, Imo State, said it made 31 seizures of contraband goods worth N264.7 million between September and middle October this year. The Area Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Abia/Imo Command of the service, Mr Victor Dimka announced this in Owerri on Tuesday while briefing newsmen on its achievements in the zone. Dimka said the goods seized by the unit included a two by 20 ft container with 199 bales of printed wax and 566 bales of other textile materials. The controller listed other items confiscated to include

2,811 cartons of vegetable oil, 117 bales of second hand clothing as well as 45 pieces of used tyres. He said the NCS also impounded 22 vehicles comprising Lexus Jeep, Volkswagen Jet, Nissan Primera and a Toyota Highlander used in importing contraband goods. Also included in the seizures are 882 bags of imported rice, 147 cartons furniture comprising wardrobes and beds. Dimka said the goods were seized on the Aba-Eleme Road in Abia State, 9th Mile Corner in Enugu State, Ngor-Okpala

Idahosa said he had already reported the matter to the police while he is still holding discussions with his attorney. He said the media outfit unprofessional approach played out when there was

no thorough investigation of the matter to give room for fairness, balance and objectivity before publishing. He therefore called on the said Joan to come out openly to defend all her allegations.

Alleged Rape: APC Chieftain Denies Media By ANDY EGBON

BENIN CITY – A Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Party in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Hon. Moses Idahosa has refuted media report linking him to alleged rape of one Joan Ethel Nwadike in Benin City whom he referred to as a faceless person. Speaking with newsmen in Benin city, Hon. Idahosa noted that the report published by an Osun based newspaper and circulated in social media was a deliberate effort to tarnish his image.

According to him: “it is untrue, false, I have never met, seen or know anybody call Ethel Joan Nwadike in my entire life”. Idahosa noted that, “How the story came about, I do not know, it beats my imagination that somebody can cook up such damaging story about me”. The report which was complemented with his picture extracted from his facebook account and that of Dori Bolanle Adepoju Adesina the late with of His Royal Highness, Oba Deji of Akire, (claiming it was hers) he said has caused his immediate family and other

Infrastrucure: Oza Community Appeals For Govt Intervention By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM

OZA (Orhionmwon) – The Oza Community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State has appealed to the three levels of government for the provision of social amenities to the community. The Odion of Oza Community, Pa John Okunbor who spoke with The Nigerian OBSERVER AT Oza Community said the failed state of the access road to the community is making the transportation of form produce difficult for the people. Noting that successive governments have not seen

the need to give due attention to the provision of social amenities to the locality, Pa Okunbor noted the infrastructure that area lacking to include modern market. While praying government intervention in renovating the maternity in the community, Pa Okunbor also appealed to relevant authorities to prevail on the contractor handling the community water borehole project to return to site for the purpose of completing it. He also appealed to the State Commissioner for Secondary, Technical and Tertiary Education to provide more teaching staff to the only secondary school in the community.

Report

relations as well as his friends and associates serious embarrassment. While calling on the publishing outfit to retract the story in its entirety,

He said that five persons had so far been arrested, while earlier arrests made were still in police custody awaiting prosecution in the court. Dimka lamented the use of government mass transits buses and vehicles of other notable private organisations by the smugglers to perpetrate the act. “It is unfortunate that vehicles meant for good purposes are now being used by smugglers to smuggle goods to the zone. “The war on smuggling is getting fiercer and the momentum will be sustained. There is greater advantage in curbing smuggling than allowing it to strive,’’ he said. The controller observed that the trend of smuggling had changed as the smugglers had abandoned the use of big Lorries to small buses to convey their goods. “We will continue to fight this war. We are equipped for it and will not sleep until we bring smuggling to a barest minimum,’’ he said.

Osasuyi Admonishes Youths To Shun Vices

By RICHARD OKORO-EWEKA

BENIN CITY - The Spiritual Leader/General overseer of Christ’s Chosen church of God International Most Snr. Apostle (Dr.) Joshua Osasuyi has called on youths not to allow themselves to be deceived and used to perpetuated evil in the society. Most Snr. Apostle Osasuyi made the call while delivering a sermon titled

“youth, a societal change” at the Annual National Youth Convention with the theme “His Purpose my Gain” at the International headquarter of the Church in Benin City. The Spiritual Leader urged youths not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of kidnapping, prostitution, robbery, vandalism, terrorism and the likes. “When you allow

yourselves to be used negatively, you are invariably destroying your own life. Money gotten from such negative exercise is blood money and can never be utilized well”. Speaking further he said as a youth, this is your time to shine and contribute your quota to the development of the society, nation and the

world at large. “Fulfilling God’s purpose makes your life meaningful, rewarding and gainful, discover your uniqueness and avoid spiritual and material bankruptcy. Youth convention is a period of learning, revival and miracles. I therefore urge every youth to be desperately focused in order to get the best from the Lord” he concluded.

The Spiritual Leader of Christ Chosen Church of God International, Most Snr Apostle Dr. Joshua Osasuyi declaring open Year 2013 Youth Convention of the Church. Photo: MOSES OBOH.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Osun Speaker Commends Conviction Of Wife’s Kidnappers OSOGBO - Mr Najeem Salaam, the Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, has hailed the judgment of the State High Court, Iwo, which sentenced the kidnappers of his wife to 27 years imprisonment. Salaam in a statement in Osogbo said the judgment had shown that nemesis had a way of catching up with criminals. The reports state that an Osun State High Court sitting in Iwo convicted the five men who kidnapped Alhaja Muibat Salaam. It will be recalled that the victim was kidnapped in Ejigbo, Osun on Oct. 9, 2012 by men armed with guns while returning home from work. Salaam said by the judgment, his wife would be consoled that her travails in the hands of the kidnappers were not in vain. He said that he would personally work on a bill that would prescribe capital punishment for kidnappers. “My wife and myself, and the good people of Osun are happy with the court judgment and this shows that no evil doer

will go unpunished, ‘’ he said. Salaam also called on government at all levels to declare a state of emergency on youth unemployment and the education sector. The present school curriculum, he said, could not support entrepreneurial skills that could make youths to be self sufficient, adding that this had resulted in an alarming crime rate.

South West

L-R: Barrister Washington Osifo, Commissioner of Higher Education, Emmanuel Sule, Executive Director, Center for Development and Cultural Interchange, Princess Eseosa Erediauwa, SSA to the Governor on Education, during the launch of ‘Volunteer Teachers Scheme’ at St. Pauls Youth Center, Airport Road, Benin City.

Oyo Assembly Adopts Report On Boundary Dispute

IBADAN- The Oyo State House of Assembly has adopted the report of its Committee on Land, Housing and Survey which investigated the boundary dispute between Ijio and Moriwi/Iwoye communities. The Chairman of the committee, Hon. Wahab Oladejo representing Ido Constituency, presented the report during plenary. The reports state that while Ijio community is in Iwajowa Local Government of Oyo State, Moriwi/Iwoye is in Imeko Afon Local Government Area of Ogun. Oladejo urged the House to adopt the committee’s recommendation that the deputy governors of Oyo and Ogun States should ensure a speedy constitution of a joint body on the issue. He also urged the deputy governors, as the chairmen

of the State Technical Committee on Boundary Matters in their states, to liaiase with the chairmen and traditional rulers of the feuding communities. “The chairmen and traditional rulers should prevail on their subjects to

Burglary: ABEOKUTA An Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court, sitting at Isabo sentenced a 26-year-old man, Tobi Oyelami, to two years imprisonment for breaking into a shop and assault. The Police Prosecutor, Augustine Ozimini, told the court that the offence was committed on Sept. 24 at about 3. a.m. at Sabo in Abeokuta.

maintain the status quo in their territories pending the determination of the matter by the joint committee to be set up,” he said. Deliberating on the report, some of the lawmakers observed that some critical areas that should form part

of the report were missing. Notwithstanding the decision to adopt the report, Speaker Monsurat Sunmonu ruled that it should be rewritten and re-submitted to the House. The House also directed the

He said that the convict, of no fixed address, broke into the shop of one Nuhu Barau and stole various cell phones valued at N50,000. The prosecutor also said that the convict, while trying to escape arrest, unlawfully injured Barau by stabbing him with a scissors on his neck. “ Oyelami broke and entered the shop of Barau,

the complainant, whose shop was in front of his house. He saw Oyelami carting away his goods. “Barau tried to prevent him from escaping but was stabbed in the neck by the convict who was latter arrested by members of a vigilance group in the area, “ Etusi said. Etusi said the offence contravened sections 413 (1)

management of Oyo State Transporters Enumeration and Registration Scheme (OYSTERS) to appear before it at the next sitting over allegation of extortion. The lawmakers were reacting to the report that the organisation had been extorting money from commercial motorcyclists.

Man, 26, Jailed 2 Years

Gang Rape:

Prof. Festus Iyayi (left) with Prof. Okunu during ASUU protest in Benin City yesterday. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

(2), 390 (9), 356 (1) and 355 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun, 2006. The convict pleaded guilty to the four-count charge of felony, breaking and entry, stealing and assault. The Magistrate, Mr Emanuel Adekunte, sentenced Oyelami to two years in Oba Prison with no option of fine.

4 Men Docked

ADO-EKITI- The police in Ado-Ekiti arraigned four men-Ogundola Dayo 24; Akomolafe Gbenga, 27; Ayeni Oluwaseun, 29; and Seye Banjo, 24-before an Ado-Ekiti Magistrates’ Court for alleged rape. The Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Caleb Leranmo, told the court that the accused committed the offence on October 13 at Moshood road, Ikere-Ekiti. He alleged that the first accused, Dayo, aided the three accused persons to gang rape a girl which led to her being hospitalised.

The prosecutor said the offence contravened section 4(d) of the Ekiti State Gender Based Violence (Prohibition) Laws of 2011. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty while their counsel, Mr Chris Omokhafe, prayed the court to grant bail to them. Chief Magistrate Adesoji Adegboye granted bail to each of the accused persons in the sum of N100,000 and one surety in like sum who must be a civil servant. He adjourned the case to November . 15 for further hearing.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Lagos Expert Urges Insurance Brokers To Contribute To Vision 20:2020 LAGOS - Mr Olola Ogunlana, Chairman, SCIB Insurance Brokers, on Tuesday advised the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) to make meaningful contributions to the success of the Vision 20:2020. Ogunlana gave this advice at the NCRIB 2013 National

Insurance Conference in Lagos. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the theme of the conference was “Insurance Brokers and FSS 20:2020 Imperatives of Insurance Growth Strategy”. According to him, the Vision 20:2020 has been well articulated like all other national development strategies of the Federal

Government since 1960. “The problem has been ways of achieving them which are not always properly marshalled out. “I hope that Vision 20:2020 will be different and that insurance brokers will contribute to its success,” Ogunlana said. The speaker, who was the

chairman of the occasion, said that to do this, the brokers needed to ensure that all stakeholders worked together. He said that the brokers and the industry players should reposition themselves to be able to perform creditably and profitably. According to Ogunlana,

they should be able to do this considering their wealth of expertise, experience, actuarial knowledge as well as skills in investment of funds. He said that the stakeholders should be able to instill the mindset of risk management as well as maintenance culture in

contravened Sections 78, 249, 363 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. Some of the exhibits displayed at the court include medical doctor ’s coat, stethoscope, syringes and drugs, among others. The case was adjourned to November. 20, for hearing.

themselves. Ogunlana said they should also be able to educate and engender insurance culture into the larger percentage of Nigerians. He said that the brokers should be able to protect and conserve the nation’s wealth as well as generate additional wealth to accelerate national development. Mrs Laide Osijo, NCRIB President, said that insurance brokers could be one of the major drivers of the Financial System Strategy (FSS) 2020 if given the required attention. According to Osijo, the theme of the conference is apt due to the need for brokers to make their impact felt in the nation’s quest to join the world top 20 nations by 2020. She said that NCRIB was not happy with the relegation to the background contributions insurance brokers could make to the nation’s vision. Osijo said that the need for change necessitated the FSS 2020 initiative to act as catalyst for growth for all sectors and operators of the economy. Dr Charles Ohamara, consultant to FSS, said that FSS 2020 offered a platform for brokers to educate the public on insurance brokerage. Ohamara, who represented Mr Oluwatoyin Jokosenumi, Head FSS 2020, urged brokers to continue to make their impact felt and ensure that the insurance FSS was achieved.

LAGOS - An Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, remanded a man at the Ikoyi Prisons over the alleged killing of a 42-year-old woman, Fausat Ajibola. The accused, Mukaila Sumanu, 35, who resides at No.5, Temitope St., Araromi Village, Ikorodu, Lagos, is facing a charge of unlawful killing. The Chief Magistrate, Mrs. A.A. Demi-Ajayi, said the accused should be remanded in prison, pending legal advice from the State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The plea of the accused was not taken. The prosecutor, ASP Etim Nkankuk, had told the court that the offence was committed on Aug. 1 at about 2:00 a.m. at Araromi Village, Ikorodu, Lagos. Nkankuk said the deceased and the accused were

neighbours. He said the accused had cut Ajibola’s mango tree for herbal medicine without her permission. According to him, the deceased got angry and went to the accused’s house to challenge him. “The deceased insulted the accused which resulted into a fight. During the fight, the accused beat the deceased with ‘2 by 4’ plank,” Nkankuk said. The prosecutor said that the deceased was rushed to the hospital, where she was later confirmed dead. He said that the offence contravened Section 221 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. The reports stete that the accused may be sentenced to death on conviction. The case was adjourned till Nov. 11 for mention.

Alleged Stabbing Of Neighbour

Couple Arraigned LAGOS-A couple, Kehinde and Ikponmwosa Solomon, has appeared before an Abule-Egba Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, for allegedly stabbing a neighbour in the neck. Kehinde,39, and Ikponmwosa, 40, who live at No. 2, Modupe Ayoade St., Iyana-Ipaja, were arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on assault and causing grievous harm. The Prosecutor, Insp. Racheal Williams, told the court that the accused committed the offences on October. 13, at their residence. According to the prosecution, the first accused, Kehinde, was fighting with her neighbour, Happiness Andrew, when the second accused, Ikponmwosa, came in. Williams said, “The duo got into a heated argument which turned into a fight and in the process the husband broke a bottle and stabbed Happiness in the neck. “They had been arguing over a dustbin which the complainant said the accused dropped in front of her room,” she said. The prosecutor told the court that the accused persons stabbed the complainant in the neck and lap and caused her grievous harm. “The complainant was

unconscious due to loss of blood and was rushed to the hospital,” she said. According to the prosecutor, the complainant is responding to treatment in the hospital. Williams said the offences contravened Sections 171, 243 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. The accused, if convicted, could be imprisoned for seven years. However, the accused persons pleaded not guilty. The Magistrate, Mr Tajudeen Elias, granted bail to each of the accused in the sum of N250,000, with one surety in like sum. He adjourned the case till November. 11, for mention.

ASUU University of Benin Branch, during their protest march to NUJ Press Centre, Benin City yesterday. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

LAGOS - An Isheri Senior Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, has remanded a 42-year-old man, Akintolure Stephen, of No. 69, Alagbo-Ile Road, Ojodu, Berger, Lagos, for allegedly parading himself as a medical doctor. The Magistrate, Adejumoke Olagbegi-Adelabu, ordered that the accused should be remanded following objection to his bail by the Prosecutor, Insp. Nurudeen Thomas. Stephen was arraigned on a four-count charge of false

representation, illegal administration of drugs, forged medical and dental certificates, and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) identity card. Thomas argued that the accused was on the run for two months, stressing: “now that the accused has been arrested, he may run away if granted bail’’. He said the accused committed the offence on July 22, and was arrested following a petition by Kadiri Gbadebo, over alleged extortion. “But on reaching the station,

Fake Doctor Remanded Stephen falsely presented himself as a surgeon and gynecologist attached to LUTH. “He further presented a forged Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria Annual Practice certificate with Registration No. PM 49872 dated Oct. 20, 2011 and LUTH identity card No. 13541,’’ he said. He also said that Stephen had been treating, dispensing and selling drugs to patients at Ojota and its environment since 2011. Thomas said the offences

ASUU DELSU Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Mordi, addressing the public during the rally held at Abraka, Delta State

Man, 35, Arraigned For Murder

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Across The Nation To Assist Crisis Victims, Senator Calls For Trauma Centre JOS- Sen. Gyang Pwajok has called for trauma management centres to assist victims of the protracted violence in Plateau north. Pwajok, who represents Plateau north, told newsmen that the war-weary victims needed more attention and should not

just be abandoned to their fates. “It is a huge regret that the victims of the violence are usually left alone to suffer; there has to be a very systematic way of addressing the concerns of these traumatised families and communities. “There is the need for trauma

and counselling centres, especially since many survivors witnessed the gruesome killing of their loved ones; we also need to strengthen the compensation processes. “It is not enough to just throw some funds once in a while, or drop wrappers or mattresses to

the victims of the conflicts. “On most routes in Plateau north, you see destroyed villages, collapsed religious structures, as well as abandoned farms and villages. There are also displaced persons that keep wandering. We must seek ways to cater for them and reintegrate

them into the society. “Governments at all levels spend billions on roads. We should spend some of these billions on the reconstruction of destroyed communities so as to minimise the sad visible reminders of the ugly past. “In doing that, Nigeria will only be emulating what was done at the larger world level when deliberate massive constructions marked the postworld war era,’’ he said. Pwajok said that security had been of utmost concern to him as a representative of a crisisridden senatorial district, and expressed happiness that his parleys with the warring parties had ensured the gradual return of peace. The senator said that he would continue to carry out sustained advocacy toward stability, and disclosed that he was partnering with security agencies “in a

solution-driven manner rather than hurling accusations and blames’’. He cautioned stakeholders in the Plateau peace process against losing momentum, pointing out that the gains could be lost if they took things for granted and lose concentration. Pwajok called on his constituents to jealously guard the peace they currently enjoy, noting that “crisis entrepreneurs’’ were always at work to create confusion so as to gain from it. He called for more avenues for interactions that would minimize areas of distrust, mutual fears and suspicion, stressing that communing together would reestablish and strengthen the bonds that held the people together

Out-Of-School Children Drops To 42 Per Cent

Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Tamrat Admassu (left), discussing with the Senate President, David Mark at the 4th National Prayer Breakfast in Abuja yesterday.

Stakeholders To Find Lasting Peace In Kaura LGA K A F A N C H A N (KADUNA)-Stakeholders in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna in Kafanchan, have convened a peace meeting to address the problem of incessant violence in the area. The meeting, which was at the instance of the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial district, Mrs. Nenadi Usman. was aimed at reconciling aggrieved parties. In her speech, Usman appealed to affected communities to eschew bitterness and accommodate one another, adding that there could be no meaningful development in an atmosphere of violence. “Let us open a new page, forget about what has happened in the past and start all over again,’’ she said. Usman said the meeting was not to apportion blame on any individual or group, but to proffer solution that would entrench lasting peace in the area. She regretted the loss of lives and property in the past as a result of the violence, stressing the need for religious tolerance among the people. Earlier, the Chairman of Kaura Local Government Council, Mr. Kumai Badu, had lamented that the previous meetings did not yield desired result but expressed optimism that lasting solution would be found at the end of the meeting. “I believe strongly that this would be our last meeting in

seeking lasting solution to the violence; by next time we shall be meeting, we would be applauding ourselves for a job well done,’’ he said. Badu challenged community and religious leaders to redouble their efforts at reconciling the people and increase the pace of development in the community. He urged Fulani community who fled their homes as a result of the violence, to return, assuring them of the safety of their lives and property. “The reconciliatory process must begin from those of you present in this meeting today,’’ he maintained.

GOMBE - Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe State says that the percentage of outof-school children in the state has dropped from 78 per cent in 2011 to less than 42 per cent in 2013. Dankwambo said this when the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyeson Wike,

L-R: Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, wife of the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Mrs. Admassu, her husband, Dr. Tamrat Admassu, Senate President David Mark and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, praying at the 4th National Prayer Breakfast in Abuja yesterday.

Special GES Beef Value Chain Initiative

Livestock Farmers To Benefit

BAUCHI- No fewer than 200 livestock farmers would benefit from the Federal Government’s Special Growth Enhancement Support (GES) scheme in Bauchi State, an official has said. Malam Mohammed Yusuf, the Federal Director of Agriculture in the state, told newsmen in Bauchi that the cattle-fattening programme for smallholder farmers, was a government initiative. Yusuf told newsmen that under the scheme, each farmer would receive 38 bags of 25 kg fattening concentrate and four blocks of salt licks at 50 per

cent discount. He said that input would cost N68,400 while each farmer would pay half the price, with government offsetting the balance. “Meat is the most-patronised product in the country, and having reflected on the dynamics of the market, there is the need to boost the industry. “With the growth of hotel, restaurants and other outlets, the government, through its Agricultural Transformation Agenda, is using this development as a major window of opportunity to

intervene in the industry.” The director said that plans were under way to link the farmers with the Bauchi Meat Factory, to ensure that no beneficiary operate at a loss. “When we provide the

farmers with the inputs, we are going to link them with the meat factory, so that the fattened cattle can be purchased by the meat factory for processing.

LAGOS- A job seeker, Muselium Dele, was charged with rape of a 19-year-old groundnut seller at an Itire Magistrate’s Court in Lagos. Dele, 25, who resides at Lawanson in Surulere area of Lagos, is being tried for conspiracy and rape. The prosecutor, Insp. Olakunle Shonibare, told the court that the

accused with others at large committed the offences on September 18 at No. 45, Anjorin St., Lawanson. He said the accused lured the teenager into his apartment on the pretext of buying groundnut and raped her. The offences, Shonibare noted, contravened Sections 258 and 409 of the Criminal Law of

visited him in Gombe. The governor recalled that the statistics of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2011 showed that 78 per cent of children in the state were out-of-school “But between 2012 and 2013, the number has dropped to less than 42 per cent. “A state of emergency was declared in the education sector, as the government built and renovated schools to decongest the existing ones, while recruiting qualified teachers. “This has contributed effectively to the development of education in the state. “We will not relent in our efforts; we will continue to invest in education because it is our number one, two and three priorities. “If a society is well-educated, other things will follow,” he said. Dankwambo, however, thanked the Federal Ministry of Education for allocating an additional “almajiri’’ school to the state. Wike said that he was in Gombe to attend the 10th Quarterly Meeting of the Universal Basic Education (UBEC). The minister commended Dankwambo for the massive construction and renovation of schools in the state. “I must commend you because you have achieved a lot in spite of the little resources you receive from the Federation Account,” he said.

Job Seeker Arraigned For Rape

Lagos State, 2011. According to reports, Section 258 prescribes life imprisonment for offenders. The accused, however, pleaded innocence of the crime. The Magistrate, Mrs. A. O. Gbajumo, granted him bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Abuja Army Says Counter Insurgency Operations Yielding Fruits ABUJA - The Director of Army Public Relations, Brig.Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, said the insurgents terrorising people in the North East are “highly mobile and fluid’’. Attahiru, who stated this in Abuja while briefing newsmen on the army’s operations in the area, gave the assurance that efforts aimed at curtailing their activities were yielding result. “You need to have a better understanding of how insurgents operate, they are not static troops; they (insurgents) are highly mobile, very fluid.

“There is no one solution to insurgency in the world. They (insurgents) are peculiar and we are approaching it based on the peculiar need of the insurgency in the North East. “The ongoing counterinsurgency efforts of the Nigerian Army to deal with the threats constituted by the violent extremist organisation in the North East have continued to yield positive results,’’ he said. Attahiru recalled that on Saturday, insurgents, using rocket-propelled grenades and AK 47 rifles fired into

Gamboru-Ngala in Maiduguri, and troops deployed in the area promptly engaged them. He said that the troops killed a number of them in the ensuing battle, and others fled to Fotokol in Cameroon. The army spokesman also said that on Sunday, the terrorists mounted a road block on the

Dikwa-Gamboru-Ngala axis where they waylaid passengers and shot at them. He said that they killed four civilians and wounded two others, and set two petrol tankers ablaze, adding that troops from the Special Operations Battalion killed five of the insurgents.

Attahiru denied online report that some senior military officers took N320, 000 each from soldiers who were withdrawn from Mali and sent to Borno to tackle terrorism in the area. The army spokesman described the report as a misrepresentation of fact.

Criminal Conspiracy

Man, 35, Arraigned ABUJA- A 35-year-old man, Michael Nwoha of Aso Pada, Mararaba in Nasarawa State has been arraigned before a Mararaba Upper Area Court in Nasarawa State, for criminal conspiracy and cheating. When the matter came up for hearing, the Police Prosecutor, Insp. Joseph Ahua, told the court that the crime was reported at the ‘A’ Division Police Station, Mararaba on October. 21 by one, Jacob Mbaiheube of Over Head Tank, Mararaba. Ahua said that the complainant came to the police station in company of an official of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, attached to the Karu Division in Mararaba. He said the accused and others at now large, collected N25,200 from the complainant under the pretext of buying some chemicals, promising to double the amount but absconded instead. The prosecutor said that the accused had been identified as a fraudster by the police and was

once charged to court for fraud but he was granted bail. He added that the offences contravened Sections 322 and 405 of the Penal Code. When cross-examined, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Presiding Officer, Mr Vincent Gwehemba, ordered the accused to be remanded in prison custody as the police continue investigation to arrest the others at large. Gwehemba adjourned the case to November 6 for further hearing.

Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (left), with UN Resident Co-ordinator, Mr. Daduda Toure at the United Nations (UN) Day celebration in Abuja yesterday.

“As at the time of their withdrawal, troops were fully paid all their subsistence allowances, while operational allowances were to be paid to them on their return from the disembarked leave.’’ He, however, disclosed that the UN owed Nigeria N127.2 billion, being the amount accruing to it from her peacekeeping efforts globally. “You will recalled that early this month (October), the UN admitted to owing Nigeria the sum of N127.2 billion accrued through her peacekeeping efforts to the global organisation,’’ he said. Attahiru also said that the ongoing recruitment in the army was a normal yearly exercise. “Recruitment in the army is a normal process. Every year, with or without insurgency, there will be recruitment because you need fresh hands in the service. “Insurgency has also made it mandatory that we up our game. “The fact that we have gotten into the UN council might up the demand on Nigeria for troop contribution. “So, we are preparing for both ways - internal security within Nigeria and peace and security anywhere in the world,’’ he said.

Instrumentalist Jailed For Criminal Trespass

ABUJA- An Abuja Senior Magistrates’ Court sentenced Emmanuel Anyanwu to 90 days in prison for trespassing into All Christian Fellowship Mission Church Abuja in an attempt to steal a loud speaker. The Senior Magistrate, Mr Abdullahi Ilelah, however, granted Anyanwu, a 34-year-old instrumentalist and resident of Angwan Cement Village,

Abuja, the option of N3,000 fine. The convict had pleaded guilty to a three-count charge of criminal trespass, house breaking and attempt to commit an offence. The prosecutor, Cpl. Simon Emmanuel, had told the court that the complainant, Mr Enenche Edache, an officer attached to Angwan Cement out

Diplomatic corps at the United Nations Day celebration in Abuja yesterday.

post, reported the matter at the Life Camp Police Station, Abuja, on Oct 16. Emmanuel said on the date, the convict broke into the church building through the glass door, carried a loud speaker and took to his heels. He said that the sound of the shattered glass alerted the policemen on patrol in the vicinity and they pursued and

arrested Anyanwu. He said that during police interrogation, the convict confessed to have broken the glass door and the screws and instruments which he used were recovered from him. The convict pleaded with the

court to show leniency because he had a wife and two children to cater for. Ilelah said although the convict pleaded with the court to be lenient in its judgment, he had to be punished, to deter others from such offence.

Rivers Carnival To Promote Healthy Environment - DG ABUJA- Mr Sam Dede, Director General, Rivers State Tourism Development Agency, said that the 2013 edition of the state’s carnival would include the planting of 1000 trees as part of efforts to safeguard the environment. Dede told newsmen in Abuja that the carnival, with the theme “Our environment, bedrock for sustainable development,” would be used to sensitise the public on the desirability of safe environment. “We intend to use the carnival to mobilize people to be conscious of the environment. “The damage we have done to our environment is enormous and so we should begin to make amends towards savaging what we have destroyed by our own life style,” he said.

He also said that the state government was working towards making the Rivers carnival, a global brand. “Our carnival is targeted at a global brand, that is what we are working on. “We have a five year development plan for the carnival, but this year, we are consolidating on the gains of last year,’’ he revealed. According to him, the state government has intensified efforts at sensitising the people to consider tourism as ‘a way of life’ not just ‘site seeing’. “People must begin to have an attitude of gaining from tourism; we will have to empower our people to make tourism a big business,’’ he said. The reports that the 2013 carnival is to take place from December 15 to 21.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

News Reps Consider Bill To Regulate Use Of ABUJA - A bill seeking to Donor Funds (PDP- Rivers), and Rep. regulate the acceptance and Farouk Lawan (PDP – Kano), utilisation of financial and material contributions of donor agencies to voluntary organisations has passed through its second reading at the House of Representatives. The bill also seeks to subject the acceptance and utilisation of funds from international donor agencies by Civil Society Organisations (CSO) in the country to the control of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The Speaker, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal has, however, warned that the move should not be misconstrued as “gagging” the activities of the CSOs. During the debate, some of the lawmakers opined that the bill, if passed, into law would hamper the activities of CSOs that have been active in checking the excesses of governments. According to the sponsor of the bill , Rep. Eddie Mbadiwe (APGA,Imo), funds from donor agencies ought to be subjected to stricter control going by the security challenges currently

confronting the country. He said that there were many non- governmental organisations that were not registered in the country yet, have access to funds from these international agencies. Mbadiwe said this, had constituted a serious threat to national security and urged his colleagues to pass the legislation to checkmate the ugly situation. Speaking in support of the bill, Rep. Leo Ogor (PDPDelta) said that the parliament has a responsibility to bring the laws of the country into conformity with global best practises. He said that it was within the mandate of the parliament to bring the activities of NGOs in the country into public scrutiny so as to enhance public safety. The lawmakers said that public safety would be enhanced if NGOs were required by law to ensure that they are registered with the ICPC before accessing funds from foreign countries. Other lawmakers who spoke also support the bill. Reps. Sekonte Davies,

who spoke during the debate, also supported the bill. Commenting on the matter, the Speaker said that the bill was not designed in any way to stifle NGOs and civil society organisations. Rather, he said, it was to ensure that donor agencies’ funds do not go into illicit activities. “It is important to state here that this bill is not an attempt to gag CSOs. “Anyone who is interested in the bill should endeavour to attend the public hearing and I will ensure that it runs for three days”.

Reps To Investigate Alleged Blocking Of Foreign Airlines From Some Routes

ABUJA - The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Aviation to investigate the alleged refusal by the Federal Ministry of Aviation to allow some foreign airlines to operate from some airports in the country. The resolution followed a

L-R: Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Zainab Maina, Plateau Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Olivia Dazyam, at a stakeholders meeting on Centenary Country report on Nigerian Women in Abuja yesterday.

Develop Yourselves, Expert Tells Trad challenges in tradoBy JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM Doctors medical practice. IGBANKE – The Chairman of tradomedical doctors in Omolua, (Igbanke) in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. Dr. Thomas Agho has charged traditional medicine practitioners to engage themselves in

capacity building as a way of enhancing the profession. Dr. Agho made the charge in a chat with The Nigerian OBSERVER in Omolua, saying capacity building would equip them to better face

L-R: Director, International Economic Relations Department, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Haruna Mohammed, Deputy Director, Legal Department, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Amusa Ogungbana and Chairman, Investment and Securities Tribunal, Dr. Ngozi Chianakwalam, at the Stakeholders’ Forum in Abuja yesterday.

While appreciating the federal government recognition of the National Practitioner, Dr. Agho however appealed for the extension of micro-credit facilities to members of the association.

motion brought to the House by Rep Aliyu Madaki (PDP- Kano) which said the ministry had refused some airlines’ request to operate flights from the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The House further directed the committee to investigate the renovation work done at MAKIA to ascertain whether the job was done as specified in the contract agreement. The Committee is to report back within eight weeks. The motion was adopted by the House when put to vote by the Speaker Aminu Tambuwal. Moving the motion Madaki recalled that the ministry had blocked four foreign airlines -Qatar, Emirates, Turkish and Etihad - from extending their commercial flights to Abuja and Kano. He expressed worry that the blocking of airlines was affecting the economic prospects of the northern part of the country. Similarly the House has mandated its Committee on Aviation to investigate the alleged purchase of 1.6 million dollar bullet-proof BMW cars for the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stalla Oduah. The action was sequel to a motion raised under

matters of urgent public importance by the Minority Whip of the House, Rep Samson Osagie (APCEdo). Leading the debate Osagie argued that his motion was against the backdrop of the level of poverty nationwide. “Given the level of poverty and unemployment in the country, it would be unpatriotic for an agency of government to indulge in expenditure for the comfort and safety of one public officer”, he said. The lawmaker also said the action of NCAA and the Minister of Aviation negated the statutory authority of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). He said it was in the authority of the commission to make recommendations on the way public officers, including ministers were to

be catered for by the state. Also contributing to the debate, Reps Hassan Saleh, (PDP- Benue), Emmanuel Jime(PDP-Benue ), Matthew Omegara ( APCImo ) supported the motion. They urged House to thoroughly investigate the matter in order to ensure that appropriate sanctions were meted to those involved in the purchase if found culpable. Omegara said the House had turned down a request by NCAA to purchase vehicles in the 2013 budget. He implored the House to also look into what the agencies of government do with their internally generated revenues. The motion was eventually passed and the Committee on Aviation was mandated to carry out the investigation and report to the House within one week.

Trad Doctor Urges Support For Trad Medicine By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM

AGBOR (Delta) – A traditional medicine practitioner in Agbor, Delta State, Chief Yomi Oduselu Hassan has called on government at all levels, NGOs as well as individuals to support the department of traditional medicine in Nigeria. Making the call in a chat with The NIGERIAN OBSERVER in Agbor, Chief Hassan noted that with

adequate attention to traditional medicine with its practitioners, the Nigeria nation is capable of reaping bountifully from the system. According to him, tradomedical doctors can do better than medical doctors if well equipped to refine their riots/ herbs. Chief Hassan also appealed to the three tiers of government to open trado-medical school and practicing centres in all local government areas of Delta State.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY (EQUITIES) AS AT YESTERDAY (24/10/13) Stocks

Open

Change

Deals

Units

Value

LIVESTOCK

3.78

290,816

1,095,188.55

7UP

23,868

1,623,373.90

MANSARD

2.04

121,900

246,593.00

ABCTRANS

0.76

0.79

0.03

81,510

64,392.90

MAYBAKER

2.1

2.02

-0.08

309,039

639,718.15

ACADEMY

2.2

2.31

0.11

306,500

674,279.62

MBENEFIT

0.5

6,730

3,365.00

ACCESS

10.25

10.1

-0.15

8,961,933

89,804,195.22

MOBIL

120

20,624

2,425,180.07

AFRIPRUD

1.93

1.86

-0.07

2,080,479

4,043,149.56

MRS

35.97

37.56

1.59

306,201

11,121,149.37

AGLEVENT

1.65

6,000

9,420.00

MTI

0.5

87,000

43,500.00

AIICO

0.98

0.96

-0.02

10,175,462

9,957,451.81

MULTITREX

0.51

11,000

5,500.00

AIRSERVICE

3.69

112,079

393,397.29

MULTIVERSE

0.5

100

ALUMACO

7.75

442.2

NAHCO

6.09

-0.09

1,324,041

8,033,765.21

ASHAKACEM

22.9

22.04

-0.86

364,677

8,038,894.08

NASCON

12.11

134,413

1,634,389.61

ASOSAVINGS

0.5

600,100

300,050.00

174

173.5

-0.5

2,707,676

468,251,443.20

BERGER

22,790

183,047.74

NEIMETH

1.2

119,480

137,328.92

BETAGLAS

13.1

11,915

155,085.00

NEM

0.63

0.62

-0.01

3,945,086

2,447,869.68

CADBURY

56.5

252,990

13,606,688.62

NESTLE

1050

1050.06

0.06

124,505

130,390,904.20

CAP

44.96

46.87

1.91

421,395

19,697,477.62

NNFM

25.65

24.37

-1.28

55,667

1,356,604.79

CAPALBETO

95.49

907.2

NPFMCRFBK

0.81

0.77

-0.04

900,051

693,039.27

11.85

11.31

-0.54

7,257,580

83,039,241.58

CCNN

9.5

405,076

3,852,606.11

OANDO

CHELLARAM

4.36

1,100

4,565.00

OASISINS

0.5

500

250

CONOIL

46.85

49.15

2.3

444,196

20,822,943.67

OKOMUOIL

350,556

15,129,299.15

CONTINSURE

1.07

1.06

-0.01

1,932,380

2,060,833.00

PAINTCOM

2.2

62,000

133,160.00

CORNERST

0.5

288,000

144,000.00

PORTPAINT

4.85

361,200

1,754,038.00

COSTAIN

1.05

1.07

0.02

845,622

861,206.58

PRESCO

35.5

34.5

-1

221,288

7,634,018.00

COURTVILLE

0.6

0.63

0.03

187,000

117,725.00

PRESTIGE

0.55

0.57

0.02

706,386

402,640.02

CUSTODYINS

1.75

1.67

-0.08

1,776,715

2,980,016.27

-1

484,435

19,017,925.59

CUTIX

1.9

1,000

1,810.00

REDSTAREX

4.68

4.6

-0.08

249,850

1,119,422.50

DAARCOMM

0.5

1,000

500

ROYALEX

0.5

1,000

500

DANGCEM

189.9

190

0.1

1,235,094

234,634,179.90

RTBRISCOE

1.4

100,611

135,884.13

DANGFLOUR

9.26

9.4

0.14

347,072

3,246,397.78

SKYEBANK

4.6

4.65

0.05

6,044,785

27,946,503.30

DANGSUGAR

11.73

11.51

-0.22

1,262,125

14,551,843.92

STANBIC

19.5

19.3

-0.2

1,049,093

20,404,358.06

DIAMONDBNK

6.71

6.6

-0.11

18,191,420

119,799,229.80

STERLNBANK

2.4

2.43

0.03

26,542,537

61,843,485.14

DNMEYER

1.8

1.88

0.08

194,844

349,766.13

THOMASWY

0.87

500

415

DUNLOP

0.5

40,082

20,041.00

TOTAL

167

37,705

6,208,887.66

ETERNA

2.73

2.7

-0.03

555,970

1,512,623.73

TRANSCORP

1.83

1.87

0.04

91,469,358

171,104,754.90

ETI

13.82

0.18

7,079,305

99,033,417.19

TRANSEXPR

1.32

16,600

22,758.00

EVANSMED

3.4

5,022

16,221.06

UAC-PROP

18.34

18.25

-0.09

1,493,498

27,353,004.40

FBNH

16.45

16.6

0.15

7,253,926

119,281,729.70

UACN

64.99

-1.01

1,420,662

91,388,021.07

7.9

7.98

0.08

20,013,825

158,879,213.70

FCMB

3.6

1,610,663

5,773,074.82

UBA

FIDELITYBK

2.77

2.72

-0.05

3,585,493

9,749,967.01

UBCAP

1.35

1.32

-0.03

5,879,132

8,025,328.04

FIDSON

2.1

2.04

-0.06

749,800

1,533,132.00

UBN

10.5

10.51

0.01

1,148,031

12,058,676.24

FIRSTALUM

0.5

3,560

1,780.00

UNILEVER

59.99

-0.01

396,302

23,724,360.62

FLOURMILL

83.5

0.5

872,955

73,655,678.43

UNITYBNK

0.54

0.53

-0.01

27,556,863

14,583,225.02

FTNCOCOA

0.5

109,000

54,500.00

UNITYKAP

0.5

4,000,000

2,000,000.00

GLAXOSMITH

65.5

-0.5

1,218,096

79,177,544.12

UPDCREIT

10.5

73,450

744,818.00

GUARANTY

25.25

6,313,692

159,513,560.50

UPL

3.8

7,587

28,294.94

GUINNESS

245

241

-4

234,940

56,508,966.64

UTC

0.73

0.7

-0.03

78,660

55,062.00

HONYFLOUR

2.95

2.97

0.02

1,476,943

4,395,970.07

VITAFOAM

4.12

4.11

-0.01

204,372

840,868.50

IHS

2.41

53,200

131,268.00

VONO

1.75

1.67

-0.08

100,200

167,336.00

IKEJAHOTEL

0.72

0.75

0.03

480,378

348,872.35

WAPCO

98.03

98.5

0.47

1,390,503

136,641,097.90

INTBREW

547,227

12,041,233.32

WAPIC

0.99

0.95

-0.04

22,206,313

21,316,166.66

INTENEGINS

0.75

2,000

1,440.00

WEMABANK

1.06

1.11

0.05

3,318,987

3,531,294.56

IPWA

0.89

0.85

-0.04

51,000

43,350.00

ZENITHBANK

21.42

21.75

0.33

6,745,591

145,095,345.30

JAPAULOIL

0.5

302,265

151,132.50

JBERGER

9,014

690,329.29

JOHNHOLT

1.24

1.3

0.06

140,370

176,127.08

JOSBREW

3.78

3.6

-0.18

747,000

2,824,200.00

LASACO

0.5

1,000

500

LEARNAFRCA

1.7

1,204,524

2,001,391.24

LINKASSURE

0.5

1,818,200

909,100.00

TOP 10 GAINERS Stock CONOIL CAP MRS FLOURMILL WAPCO ZENITHBANK ETI FBNH DANGFLOUR ACADEMY

Close 49.15 46.87 37.56 84 98.5 21.75 14 16.6 9.4 2.31

TOP TOP 10 10 LOSERS GAINERS Gain

Stock

2.3 1.91 1.59 0.5 0.47 0.33 0.18 0.15 0.14 0.11

GUINNESS NNFM UACN PRESCO PZ ASHAKACEM OANDO GLAXOSMITH NB DANGSUGAR

Close 241 24.37 64.99 34.5 39 22.04 11.31 65 173.5 11.51

Loss -4 -1.28 -1.01 -1 -1 -0.86 -0.54 -0.5 -0.5 -0.22

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

THE Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has voted in favour of the removal of the National Minimum wage from the “Exclusive List to the Concurrent List” in the ongoing constitution review. THE Trade Union Congress in a swift reaction on Tuesday called on the Senators to reconsider their position on the deregulation of the minimum wage. The Union’s President, Mr. Bobboi Kaigama said the decentralisation of the National Minimum wage Law showed clearly that the upper legislative arm was acting contrary to the will of the Nigerian people. WE are tempted to share same sentiments with the Trade Union Congress given the unpopular amendments the Senate has embarked upon since it commenced voting on the recommendations of the Ike Ekweremadu-led Committee reports on constitution review. From the obnoxious 6 year single tenure, to the Child Marriage and now moving National Minimum wage out of the Exclusive List to the Concurrent List. WE believe that there are more important constitutional changes Nigerians have been clamouring for to be reflected in the grand norm which the Senate who ordinarily should be the representatives of the people are shying away from in utter preference for their personal issues and those of their political

THE NIGERIAN

Senate’s Constitutional Ammendment Of Minimum Wage godfathers. Some of the important issues Nigerians want to see in their constitution include but are not limited to the followings: true fiscal federalism or resource control, in the alternative, return to regional government as provided for in the 1963 Constitution, devolution of powers to federating states, Local Government Autonomy, removal of immunity clause particularly with criminal dimension to immunity among others. RATHER than give Nigerians a peoplecentred constitution, we are worried that the Senate is currently chasing shadows and wallowing in self-glorification and perpetuation. This is condemnable because, it is only sheepish for a Senator to vote for Child Marriage only to burst into tears when confronted by his constituents. It goes to show that many of the Senators are not voting according to the wishes of their constituencies. This explains the untoward voyage into the deregulation of minimum wage by the Senators. IT is our contention, therefore, that if the

Federal Government should legislate for federal workers and the state government legislates for the state workers, which assembly have the Senators put in place in the same constitution to legislate for the private sector and other none state actors? CREATING two regimes of minimum wage and excluding the private sector in the fixing of wages in the country, offers private operators a blank cheque to exploit Nigerians in their employ. We expect Senators to have this understanding more than any other Nigerian, hence our utter disappointment and we call on the distinguished senators to rescind their stand. IT is for this reason, we want to urge the House of Representatives which has been very progressive in its legislations and resolution since inception of the seventh National Assembly to vote against this obnoxious decision of the senators. WE urge the Committee on harmonization of both houses positions to throw out this vexations provisions from our statute book when they eventually commence sitting on constitution review. In the same token, we call on all State Houses Assembly to reject the proposal if it comes their way. FINALLY, we urge organised Labour as represented by the Trade Union Congress and the Nigeria Labour Congress to rise to the occasion and resist this anti-labour move of the senators.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Insight VIOLENCE against women, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) is “the intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community that either results in, or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment or deprivation”. Also, the United Nations defines violence as any act of gender based infliction of bodily harm that results in, or is likely to result in physical, sexual or mental harm or suffering to women and men including threats under the influence of alcohol and other chemical substance that may contribute to violent behaviour. A drunk person will be less likely to control his or her violent impulse when he is angry. Experts define abuse as any physical sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threat of actions that influences another person. This include behaviours that freighter, intimidate, terrorize

manipulate hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone. Reasons for violence or abuse according to experts, is that people feel the need to central and dominate the other. Abusers may feel the need to control their partners because of low selfesteem, extreme jealousy, difficulties in regulating anger and other strong emotions, or when they feel inferior to the other partner in Education and Socioe c o n o m i c background. This domination then takes the form of emotional physical or sexual abuse. Studies suggest that violent behaviour are often caused by an interaction of situational and individual factors. That means that abusers can learn violent behaviour from their family, people in their community and other cultural influences as they grow up, or they might have been exposed to violence as a child or a victim themselves. Furthermore, acts of violence against women or girls are of different forms. There is the dreaded rape

Addressing Violence Aga which according to one definition is a forceful threat of bodily harm or taking sexual advantage of a victim without getting consent. Rape is a crime or violence and intimidation, in which a person is coerced or manipulated by another person into sexual intercourse. This is common among most men who are not just family friends but relatives and parent who take advantage of teenagers who are place in their care. Recent reports revealed that a 95year-old man allegedly raped an eighty-year-old girl who was his neighbours daughter. This happens yearly in different countries of the world. Statistics from the United Nations news centre recently, has shown there is an alarming rise in rape and violence against women and the girl child in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) North Kivu. “Our protection monitoring teams have registered 705

cases of sexual violence in the region since January including 619 cases of rape” according to the UN high Commission spokesman who are rehabilitating the victims who were

physically and emotionally abused in Congo. Another form is Battering, which refer to violence acts-

“Experts define abuse as any physical sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threat of actions that influences another person. This include behaviours that freighter, intimidate, terrorize manipulate hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone.”

By WINIFRED OSASOBO

psychological sexual and physical assaults by an assailant against his wife and partner made with the intent of contriving their partner by including fear and pain on the victims.

naming ceremony of their twins. Children. Her husband hit her on the head for not breastfeeding their babies and she died in the process. Human trafficking is another, it is the

Around the world, at least one in every three women is beaten, coerced into sex or abused most often by some-one she knows including her husband or another male family member. An instance, was a woman identified as Osarumwense who was allegedly killed by her husband, Endurance Enadebe who resides at Oka quarters, Upper Sakponba, Benin City, few days to the

acquisition of people by improper means such as force, fraud deception with the aim of exploiting them. The issue of trafficking affects virtually all countries, whether development or not. This has eaten deep into the fabrics of the society and many families push their children into such crime due to poverty. Which the victims are left to suffer the

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org rea W be ha wo FG pa im te co inc in ca ch

co ag ge

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Insight

ainst Women/Girl Child

onsequence after ome time, their might ad to either loss of fe or-contraction of eadly disease that are ncurable. Similarly, there is so Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) hich is the removal f the female genitalia

gan for non-medical ason. According to WHO, it has no health enefit and causes arm to girls and omen in many way GM causes severe ains and has several mmediate and long rm health onsequences cluding difficulties child birth. It also auses danger to the hild says WHO. Virtually every ountry in the world grees that female enital mutilation is a

violation of a female human right. It is also seen as an extreme form of discrimination against females in the

world. Violence against women cuts across social and economic divides and is deeply

embedded in cultures around the world so much so that millions of women consider. It as a way of life, while

neglecting the danger it poses to them. Certainly, the female gender faced with these abuses/violent acts, cannot contribute to the growth of the society and in order to

reverse this trend of relegating the women folk to the background, these abusive tendencies and maladies must of necessity, stop!.

The Girl Child Phenomenon AN issue that is sure to attract much response when discussing about it, is the girl-child (woman) especially when not relating it to the kitchen profession. If we can retrospectively examine the off shoot of the personality called woman, a better result as to her importance is sure to be derived, not for the purpose of the kitchen as it were, but for all round societal transformation. The question as to the identity of a girl-child may not require definite statement or explanations but it will be appropriate to employ explanatory measures in order to drive the point of whom she truly is home. The greatness in every woman is perceived in her teenage age. It will be institutionally and religiously correct to assert that Eve in the manual, the Bible and other religion materials was described as the first woman in creation. In Genesis where it was first reported of her involvement in the events that unfolded in the garden of Edem, it would be note worthy to say that she was created from, Adam’s ribs as a girl and not as a child who was on her mother’s breasts. It was clearly stated that she was not made or manufactured from Adam’s ribs with a child in her womb. So, understandingly she was at that instance “a girl”. The Edem says as it is well known provides for us an avenue to compare the punishment melted on both parties being accomplice to the crime of disobedience which section 7A of the criminal code cap 77, 1990 describes as principal offenders or parties to the offence “Every person who actually does the act or makes the omission which

constitutes the offence” are parties to the offence. The criminal code as it is in the South and the criminal procedure code as it applies to the North will not have been merciful to them including, the serpent by reason of its provisions. It could therefore be right to posit that section 7A of the criminal code cap 77, 1990 derived its assertion to the code from the decision of the Almighty to the principal offenders in the Bible book of genesis. A voice from above sounded like the sound of an earthquake saying, “Adam where hath thou?” and Adam responded “the woman whom thou hath given me gave me the fruit of good and evil”. Who asked him? (that is usual the response of a failed general who could not prosecute a war at his advantage but defends his weaknesses by first instigating complaints one will be right to stat that eve was responsible in providing for the home in the first instance. Eve gave Adam an apple to eat which she worked for, probably to a lazy husband who went to drink “ogogoro”. A husband who knows how to give names to things he never works for. It is therefore permissible to state that the punishment for the accomplice is simply a change in duty. As in, Eve would no longer be providing for you, put your muscles to work. Then for Eve, you will carry a baby in the womb for nine months, including maternity leave. Look at these! A man

By EMMANUEL U. OKORO By EMMANUEL U. OKORO who is told to prepare for leg this discuss. Gone are the amputation state to cry, at days when little emphasis the news, after the operation, and regards are attributed to the doctor prescribes a the birth of a female child. wheel chair or a sizeable Any family that dwell in working stick. But a woman what I describe as “grand pa who is pregnant cannot idea” are reasonably commence lamentation dwelling in the past and simply because of the said should please allow the 21st pain at delivery. She delivers century for those who want and it calls for celebration (a to join hands to harness the repository benefit in the girl blessing after all). Thanks therefore to – child. A barren couple who have woman for taking their duty lived for 15 years without a so seriously and having not failed in her responsibilities, baby cried and prayed “God especially in the even if is a girl – child …. improvement in the world Please Lord, give her to me”. If I were God the child population. We must however guard giver… I’ll remain silent … against Adams errors by prayer not answered. The girl child in not a last thinking that Eve was resort … she is a created only by her maker to phenomenon we must know make children rather than that there is an element of engage her or better still greatness in every woman. assist her to identify her Someone in my God-given potentials which neighborhood ended his life would have been of immense benefit to Adam in with excessive alcohol addressing his own part of intake because the wife had the punishment. And so six female children without Adam remained in that error a male. In the evenings he while his generation passed. would go to a nearby beer Unarguably, a man who is parlour to drink himself to ignorant or out of stupour years later, he came information can end up up with renal disorder which struggling with life while his finally took his life. Few after his death his generation ends like that of daughters were first to be Adam. reckoned with in the The resource in the girlneighbourhood. child is yet untapped, which It would have been a to a large extent connotes pitiable situation if those that we can take advantage girls had sat on their oars of the opportunities inherent and probably depressed by in her untapped resource in the daily embarrassment this generation, develop it and then develop the world they suffered in the hands of their father, did nothing for with it. Paradoxically, if you are a themselves. But they girl-child you are at worked hard, got good advantage to benefit from education, got married.

Occasion attracted dignities from all works of life to great the wedding ceremony of one of the girls. An uncle of their lamented endlessly.. “how I wish my brother was alive … to witness thus great occasion … this was the same man who had advised his late brother to take a second wife for the purpose of having a male – child. It is important for us to be careful the kind of advice we accept from people, including family members especially those who talk ill of the girl – child and are gender biased. These are seven principles on how to develop confidence in the girl – child. Teach her to understand (know) that success in all ramification has no gender bias but gender friendly. *Consistently remind her that she can be better than she thinks she can. *Let her see you always happy each time you invest resources towards her education. *Never you express sadness in words or in action about her gender. *Besides, show her that she can do better than her male counterpart by instilling in her discipline and confidence while you help her to identify her God – given talents. *Teach her the ways of God and also the ways of successful living. *Above all pray for her always.

“We must however guard against Adams errors by thinking that Eve was created only by her maker to make children rather than engage her or better still assist her to identify her God-given potentials which would have been of immense benefit to Adam in addressing his own part of the punishment. And so Adam remained in that error while his generation passed.”

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

POETRY Not On Strike Hmmm! everyone has gone on strike With participants increasing more than thunder strike Everyone wants to get the attention of the nation Even when it might be a clog in motion From those in the classrooms to those in the wardrooms People taking turns; leaving the masses to suffer as grasses Oh! All these things affecting at the same time Even with the rate of crimes But in all these; we still have the patriots Who are preparing to make this nation as beautiful as a diamond chariot Determined to rescue the country from rot Are you part of them or not The problems are obvious... It stares at us as images in mirrors Brings our heart many sorrows But this is a confirmation that the ground is ready to yield and fallow In the midst of the strikes we prepare a strike Learning how to make sure it doesn’t happen again Sound the alarms and prepare for the statesman gain Naija will be great again By OLUGBEMIRO OPEYEMI MICHAEL

Downpour Started like drops from the sky Then the thoughts of men on the road began to fly The clouds had began to cry Getting a covering we had to try Oh! We discovered that the ground had a smell The meeting point of the two elements was evident with holes Sun gave way for this marriage of giants Day looked like night Play ended; but had just begun in some corners Jumping, laughing and shouting with wet clothes The shallow roots smiled in reception While the legs of the Iroko stored for the dry days Leaves were made to jump and dance Roofs sang and made melodies without choice As the flood gates of heaven were opened Drizzles became downpours The wind felicitated with her brother Giving him the power to scare further Lightning and effects on the stage were added by thunder Sitting in the hut, we meditated in the weather Those that have shades get it employed Those without have their skins bathed To some its showers of blessing Others experience flogging of nature By OLUGBEMIRO OPEYEMI MICHAEL

Art Alive

With FRANCIS ODUPUTE

“Unity Is Key To Progress In Entertainment Industry” -Ejike Obioko

Music has always been his passion. For this young man who decided to start a record label in 2006 with the mindset of bringing out young talents and making them superstars, there are no stopping young Nigerian talents if they look inwards and unleash the hidden potentials in them. He registered his own company called Phantom-X Entertainment and signed some couple of artistes who he nurtured into stars in Nigeria. His name is Christian Ejike Obioko, and he walked into The NIGERIAN OBSERVER office this week to bare his mind on the state of the industry in Edo State and the way forward. “I want to say that Edo State is now ripe for a boom in the entertainment industry, because we have a listening governor who actually has done well by bringing in some artistes into the politics of Edo State. What we need now is unity. I want to make it clear to everybody, because in Benin here, there is always this problem of “E no concern me”…it is this attitude of “e no concern me” that has made this State to remain undeveloped. Now it should concern us. It should concern us that indigenous art, music and entertainment really thrives in this State

because this is what feeds many families elsewhere in Nigeria. I believe everybody should please come together, let’s see how we can move our own forward.” On the open door policy of the present administration of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, the young artiste said, “… before now it seemed like to see this people, you have to pass through a lot of protocol, and secondly people feel that even if I go see these people, they won’t listen; but looking at the lady in charge of Arts Culture and Tourism Ministry, she is outstanding and I would like to identify with such commissioner, because reading on the pages of the

Christian Ejike Obioko

newspaper that they are about to enact a law for the regulation and promotion of the entertainment industry in Edo State, that is good news and then that means somebody is actually doing his job right.” Christian and his team created Nigeria’s first 3d animation titled Ghetto soldiers for one of his artiste named SlimJeezy which held number one spot for three months at the MTN top 10 countdown on SoundCity as well as other satellite stations and local televisions Stations. This animated video later got nominated for the best use of animation category at the First Nigeria Music Video Awards 2007

alongside Tuface, Wierd Mc and Obiwon. Managed the likes of Cyrus da virus, Monemsis, j-styles, Slim jeezy, Money bank, Duzray etc. The young producer told Art Alive that he was presently preparing something for Edo state, and that when it is ready, it would benefit youths of Edo state, especially on road safety issues. Now fully into showbiz, advertisment, consultation and management of artiste/ event with many big name artistes on his parole, Christian recently held the post of co-ordinator for African Fashion Model Search 2014 (AFAMS) an ACTLAP INC Initiative. ACTLAP is an NGO based in Canada with branches in Nigeria. He presently CoOrdinates the Twins Connect, an NGO helping out twins in London and Nigeria. Born and raised in Benin City, Edo State, Christian attended Uwa Primary School, Benin City and completed his secondary school education in Boys Model Secondary School, Onicha-Olona, Delta State. Got admission to study Diploma in accounting in University of Benin, Edo state where he obtained upper credits in Diploma in Accounting.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013 With Ambrose O. Ekhosuehi 08057378438

Art And Culture

Godstick In Culture GODSTICK Ukhurhe is a carved stick specifically use in presiding over the family household gods and a symbol of a person one worships; forming part of the ancestral shrines and the shrines of gods who were once human beings. It is used in order to confirm the words of prayers, to curse and also to revoke a curse. God stick- Ukhurhe is also used in connections with ceremonies for ancestors and certain deities in order to ensure answers to prayers. It is sacred to individual ancestors of kin group or collective ancestors of a community in festivals. The dead is conceived of as standing in much the same relation to the descendants as does the head of an extended family. The demise punishes certain offences and any family member suspected of wrong doing is often asked to take oath upon the god stick to prove truthfulness. Ideally every person should have a senior son, and there is likelihood of fission of the ancestors worshipping in each generation. In such case too, the founder of a village or ward is worshipped separately. A sense of loyalty is encouraged by the knowledge of god stick that people are descendant from common ancestors and a

representation of the family tree, showing different ancestral origins in many branches is usually an object of pride to members of that family, even a whole tribe sees a common descent as the q u a l i f y i n g characteristics for membership of the group, then the godstick of the ancestors who founded the group is often used as focal points in the rites and Lineage that make coherence tangible due to ancestral godstick. In the belief that ancestral spirits could be kept in a godstick, just as wooden objects can lend psychological support to the individual who uses them in ceremonies, so in similar way, they can be used to further social ends by furnishing visible symbols of phallus (Ekiaokpa, Ukhurhe Okpa) in the social unity of the people. Godstick -Ukhurhe is usually got from the branches of a tree called Ukhurhe - Oho, the leaves resemble that of gum tree, because the tree is believed to ensure communication with the spirits world. The branches have joints and fall off when very old, hence, it doesn’t fall until divine age “(Ukhurhe Oho mase ede ehi ei kpaen).” In communication with the spirit world, the

godstick has represented wide range of beliefs and has acquired tribal and traditional functions. Spirit power present in wooden objects is sometimes persuaded to enter the object. Other objects may be activated by carving or by painting whose designs have both totemic and

members of corporate group. Individual ancestors are the object of domestic ancestral altar. When an old person dies, his senior son set up an altar and propitiates a godstick and if the demised person was a senior son, the godstick adds to the lineage of the existing

spiritual significance so that the godstick may focus the mystical unity of the society. Two types of ancestral spirits can be distinguished; Individual ancestor with specific genealogical reference and collective predecessors of

altar. The altar is usually dl’ a mud-built platform on which there are placed numbers of godsticksUkhurhe, so that in certain altar more than one and many Ukhurhegodsticks could be found, so the lineage could count existence.

“Godstick -Ukhurhe is usually got from the branches of a tree called Ukhurhe Oho, the leaves resemble that of gum tree, because the tree is believed to ensure communication with the spirits world.”

The senior son is the clergy of the demised parents, who intercedes with them on behalf of all the descendants. One or more eroro clapper bells may be used to arouse the human spirit and to invoke the spirit presence1then, the clergy prays for their own well beings and that of their families. Where there is hereditary title, the

previous owner of the title is worshipped separately, though frequently at the same shrine, as the one of the blessed memory. Offerings to past heads are made during upliftment or promotion of individual to the senior age -grade. The collective godsticks of ancestors of a family, village, ward or clan are known as Edion which is also the name of senior age grade or group. The Edion spirits are thought of both original occupiers and as the elders who have since lived and buried in

the land, so all communities have Edion shrines (Ogua Edion) which contain decorated platform altar of godsticks. The Odion Owere is the chief priest of the Edion of the land in which the founder and elders had lived. There is subsidiary altar to the past worshippers of deities, and title associations

have their own altars on which offerings are made at promotions and investiture of new title holders. The origin of godstick -Ukhurhe in the folktaleDarigho da se, is said to have been brought from the spirit world as standard carried by the blessed departed human beings due to each head of family as sign of their longevity enjoy the fruit of their offspring present at the mundane world. Godstick therefore, has been the sacred model truth of knowing past living descendants as photographs would do in modem time’s culture.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

N255m Armoured Cars

Sister, Carry ‘Them’ Along!

NOW, the guys have got so much to talk about, even while they recall the Patricia Olubunmi Etteh saga. It’s now Oduah-gate, isn’t it? They say women know how to spend! Women know how to break into, and wreck, the treasury! Women pretend they are good at harnessing resources, but give them the opportunity to touch dough, their fingers burn up the cash! The guys now have a past time, isn’t it? Gender equity, and the clamour for 35 percent Affirmative Action now hang ominously in the balance, isn’t it? Princess Oduah has given us some distraction from the several worries that this giant in the African continent has confronted her inhabitants with in recent times, ASUU being one of them, albeit a negative distraction. The ASUU logjam gives everyone goose bumps knowing the number of youths who roam the Apian ways, confused like their parents and guardians on what other course to take until the strike wears itself out. Our worries now not just stem from the Apian ways, but what our children do in those hideous crevices, in the heat of this maddening confusion… Let’s not stretch the matter: ASUU strike may end in April or May, 2014 (don’t quote me!), or when one ‘Powerful’ politician realizes his certificate is tucked in one university’s Exams and Records Department and that he needs it in preparation for 2015, so parents and guardians need to do something tangible in order to consolidate on, or console themselves with, on the vicissitudes of the moment. Stakeholders suggest that our offsprings should go to study information technology (computer training), try out or learn a skill, trade, or any other meaningful

engagement. Engagement. That’s just the word. They should be meaningfully engaged or else someone who is ‘wiser’ may get them ‘terminally’ engaged! Kai! Now, back to my dear sister, the Aviation Minister, Princess Stella Oduah who they tout acquired two up to the hilt armoured vehicles for N255 million naira, not pounds, or dollars, without meaning to demean the various opinions which have gone up, expressed in total angst, suggestive of or perceived fraud. I don’t have an inkling about the cost of luxury vehicles, or what happening people call ‘ride’ while yuppies call them ‘machines.’ I don’t know the cost of an armoured car in comparism with a private jet, but I hear, from a comprehensive features written by a popular Aviation Correspondent with one of the national dailies, that there are more private jets parked in Airodrome hangers than there are commercial planes, and the number keeps adding up every year while Aviation authorities shield the identities of their owners. The Aviation Minister knows this, but she chose Armoured vehicles to private jet for the sake of convenience, may be too due to her fears over jalopy, flying coffin jets (no pun intended) at least no one takes a private jet from one bus stop to the next, or from one ministry, public function to another, like the case of the minister. I do not also know at what point, after the Agagu plane crash, that our dear sister decided that her life as a VIP Public Servant was apparently in danger, but I know that for such huge spending, even if it is going to Iyanga market in Benin to shop for fish, there ought to be commensurate due processes, with due regard to

budgeting, costing, even the ‘other ’ sides, aiding and abetting, percentages, sacrificial giving and all that. So… where did it all go wrong? We heard there was a budget, there were exchanges of correspondence, etc. so, where are the vicarious parties? In the Olubunmi Etteh saga,

Stella Oduah, Aviation Minister

where millions of naira was said to be used in furnishing an apartment, the guys later started ‘confessing’ that she had to suffer all alone) because she didn’t follow ‘due process’ not just because the money involved could paint the whole world red. In our leadership dynamics, even as a leader myself, I have come to learn a hard lesson on the workings of vicarious liability as it relates to ‘cooperative’ agreement to take an action, no matter how that action may work out, after all, for the whole group. In our parts, it is called ‘carrying along!’

Between Choice And Consequences LIFE is like Truth or Consequences. When we tell ourselves the truth, we are better prepared for the consequences. People often fail to tell themselves the truth in the area of choices. Many people pretend they have made choice A, while their actions, behaviour, and

direction clearly indicate they are moving toward Choice B. When they arrive at B (or see it looming before them), they react with genuine surprise (often coupled with disappointment and/ or outrage), “what’s this B stuff? I chose A!” It’s bad enough to tell

Cooperative leaders and followers always clamoured for it. And when you ‘carry’ them along, you are all as thick as thieves, but when you don’t, probably baulking to a higher command, you are the only thief and the higher command wouldn’t want to identify with you when the

others we’re heading toward A when we know we’re heading toward B. It’s ten times worse to tell ourselves we’re heading toward A, when all the while we are making a beeline for B. That’s called confusion, frustration and what’s a-nice-person-likeme-doing-in a-life-likethis?

group puts you down. This is playing out already as President Jonathan has issued the Aviation Minister a query. We only hope it ends at that. Also, in Edo State recently, at the local government level, the opposition woke up one morning and decided to keep body and soul busy by weeping about alleged purchase of official vehicles by state government for local government council chairs; although state government made its position on the matter clearer than it was being put up by the opposition, the majority of the people now know that it would even be more difficult for any mischief-maker to wake up tomorrow to brand any local government chair in Edo State a thief, at least not for the purchase of official cars. There was consultation, there was ‘carrying along,’ there was also due process, the real one. And that’s the one that helps economies grow. And … talking about due process, it is not just about the procedure for procurement. It is also about the transparency of it. So much has been said about corruption and how it is eating deep into our developmental roots. So

FEMINIQUE With IJEOMA UMEH email: ladywithegoldenpen@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 08182382839 much has been said about need for transparency, accountability, probity in public administration, including procurement (Ask Rev Ugolor of ANEEJ) and integrity that when we consider the adverse effect of doing otherwise, for our nation and for ourselves, we cannot help but act in accordance to what is justifiable, justiceable and right in all sense of the word. There is always a price to pay for taking to one side of the bargain. I am talking from experience; and… no one cares if ‘you did the right thing’ by your own estimation, you are hung alone if you think you did the right thing, more so, when the forces that surround you, most of whom propelled you to act in discordance, think you have to be hung alone. The escape-goat. So so sad. So, what’s the best bet? Be as transparent as you could. Also take the Edo House as an example. Its potential sale was published. I am sure that was how the opposition PDP got to know. The state government did not muffle the actions that the opposition took, or the sentiments that were expressed. The information managers continued to do what they could. Then the governor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, called a town hall meeting in that regard, among other reasons. All interested parties and stakeholders were there. He gave genuine reasons for government’s action. He stated that the sale would be as transparent as possible in meeting with relevant standards regarding dispose of public property. Anyone who was eligible

should go ahead and indicate interest. At that town hall meeting only one dissenting voice was heard. Reason? Everyone of the sons and daughters of Edo State, through their various representatives, including high-power delegation of traditional rulers, had listened to the pros and cons and had given overwhelming support to good reason. They had all, without immediately getting a kobo, been carried along. Without meaning to say the obvious, whatever the outcome of that sale, it would subsequently translate into meaningful percentage for them – more red roof schools – health centres, even a five – star hotel could give employment for a crosssection of jobless youths. That is carrying people along too. Oduah, my sister, I don’t know what two armoured cars, acquired in the heat of people’s pain over the demise of their loved ones in a plane crash, would translate into as democracy dividends to a belaboured people (Check… ASUU, power outage, plane crashes, road mishaps, flood, phobia over confab, Boko Haram, kidnaps, child marriage, etc) but I think the timing was wrong and the amount exorbitant. (or did you intend to buy private jets)? Let it not seem that every time a woman dips hands into the treasury, it magnets something mesmerizing, as the guys would say. Maybe next time… a billion naira would be spent for tummytucking! It’s a tough time, a hard bargain, and the guys think your time is up, but don’t mind them, just carry them along!

Words on Marble The truth is that all of us attain the greatest success and happiness possible in this life whenever we use our native capacities to their greatest extent. - Dr. Smiley Blanton Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat. Theodore Roosevelt

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Healthy Living

Overcoming Threat Of Sleeping Sickness SLEEPING sickness is a vector borne parasitic disease which is caused by infection with protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Trypanosome. They are transmitted to humans by tsetse fly (Glossina genus) bites which have acquired their infection from human beings or from animals harbouring the human pathogenic parasites. The tsetse fly also known as tik-tik fly is a large biting fly that inhabits much in the mid-continental Africa between the Sahara and the Kalahari: for reasons that are so far unexplained , there are many regions where tsetse fly is found but sleeping sickness is not. Tse-tse fly live by feeding on the blood of vertebrate animals and are the primary African biological vectors of trypanosomes. People living in the rural region where transmission occurs, depending on agriculture, exposed to the tsetse fly and therefore to the disease. Within an infected area the disease can vary from one village to another. FORMS OF HUMAN A F R I C A N TRYPANOSOMIASIS There are two forms of human African Trypanosomiasis. -Typanosoma brucei gambiense (T.b.g):- This causes slow onset chronic trypanosomiasis in human and it is found in 24 countries in west and central Africa, this form currently accounts for over 98% (percent) of reported cases of sleeping sickness chronic infection. A person can be infected for months or even years without major signs or symptoms of the disease. When the symptoms eventually emerge, the patient is often already in advanced disease stage where the central nervous system is affected. - Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (T.B.R) :- This

By MERCY IYAHEN

causes fast onset acute trynosomiasis in human. It is found in 13 countries in eastern ad southern African. This form currently represent less than 2% (percent ) of reported cases. First signs and symptoms are observed a few months or weeks after infection. Then the disease develops rapidly and invade the central nervous system. Another form of African trynosomiasis is the trypanosome brucei (T.B.B.) but does not affect human due to it’s susceptibility to lysis by trypanosome lytic factor. MAJOR HUMAN EPIDEMICS The disease is endemic in some regions in subSaharan African covering areas in 36 countries containing more than 60 million people. A recent study estimate that the total Africa population at risk is of contracting sleeping sickness is 69.3 million with one third of this population being at a “very high” to ‘moderate’ risk and the remaining two third at a ‘low’ risk. The number of reported cases dropped below 10,000 in 2009, the first in 50years and this downward trend was maintained. In 2010, an estimated 30,000 people are currently infected. Most cases are believed to go unreported, about 48,000 people died of sleeping sickness in 2008. Four major epidemics have occurred in recent history one from 1896 to 1906 primarily in Uganda and the Congo Basin, two epidemics in 1920 and 1970 in several African countries and a recent epidemic in Uganda. Countries such as Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Cote d’ivoire, Equatorial guinea, Gabon, Guinea, Malawi, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania,

Zambia, Zimbabwe and Nigeria are reporting fewer than 200 cases per year. Sleeping sickness threatens millions of people, many of the affected populations live in remote areas with limitedaccess to adequate health service, which hampers the

transmitted through the bite of an infected tsetse fly but there are other ways in which people are infected with sleeping sickness. Mother to child infection:The trypanosome can cross the pancenta and infect the fetus thereby affecting the child. M e c h a n i c a l transmission:- through other blood sucking insect is

hemolyphatic phase is characterized by fever, headaches, joint pain and itching. Invasion of the circulatory and lymphatic systems by the parasites is associated with severe swelling of lymph nodes, often to tremendous sizes. Winter bottom’s sign, the tell-tale swollen lymph nodes along the back of the neck may appear occasionally, a red sore called a chancre will develop at the location of the tsetse fly bite, If left untreated, the disease overcomes the host’s defenses and can

Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, Minister for Health

surveillance and therefore the diagnosis and treatment of cases. In addition, displacement of populations, wars and poverty are important factors leading to increased transmission and this alters the distribution of the disease due to weakened or non-existent health system. MODE OF TRANSMISSION The disease is mostly

possible. However, it is difficult to assess the epidemiological impact of transmission. Accidental infections have occurred in laboratories due to pricks from contaminated needles. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS African trypanosomiasis symptom occur in two stages. The first stage know as the

cause more extensive damage, broadening symptoms to include anemia, endocrine, cardiac and kidney dysfunctions. The second stage known as the neurological phase, the parasites cross the blood-brain barrier to infect the central nervous system. In general, this is when more obvious signs and symptoms of the disease appear.

These symptoms includes changes of behaviour, confusion, sensory disturbances and poor coordination. Disturbance of the sleep cycle, which gives the disease it’s name. Infected individual experience a disorganized and fragmented 24 hour rhythm of the sleep-wake cycle, resulting to day time sleep episodes and night time periods of wakefulness. Other neurological symptoms include tremor, general muscles weakness, hemiparesis and paralysis of a limb, Parkinson like movement might arise due to non- specific movement disorders and speech disorders. Individual may also exhibit psychiatrics symptoms such as irritability psychotic reaction, aggressive behaviour or apathy which can sometimes dominate the clinical diagnosis. The disease is invariably fatal if left untreated. It causes progressive mental deterioration leading to coma, systemic organ failure and then death. An untreated infection with T.B gambiense will cause death after several years. Damage caused in the neurological phase is irreversible. PREVENTION There are currently few medically related options for African trypanosomiasis, but no vaccine exist for immunity. Although the risk of infection from a tsetse fly bite is minor estimating less than 0.1 % (percent). The use of insect repellants, wearing longsleeved clothing, avoiding tsetse dense areas, implementing bush clearance methods and wild game culling are the best options to avoid available infection for local residents of affected areas.

“The disease is invariably fatal if left untreated. It causes progressive mental deterioration leading to coma, systemic organ failure and then death. An untreated infection with T.B gambiense will cause death after several years. Damage caused in the neurological phase is irreversible.”

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Nutrition HEALTHY diet intake is as important as any other this in determing the health status of anyone. This aspect of living is one often neglected by most Nigerians. Healthy diet cannot be over emphasized as its presence or lack of it is responsible for a large part-if not the whole –of the good/bad state of our physislogy and so, to live a healthy life, one most pay attention to diet. The below are steps that can be taken to ensure a healthy diet and in general, good health. CALORIES Calories are necessary evil in foods. They are needed for energy but a little above the needed makes them dangerous to the body. It is important that you take in the right amount of calories no matter how active you are. In order words, balance the calories you use for energy with that you consone. Mayo Clinic Center has it that the average man needs not more than 2500 calories per day and for the average women not more than 2000. Most adults are eating more calories than they need. It is advised to eat fewer to avoid obesity and compression of the cardio-thoracic (chest) region of the body. WIDE RANGE OF FOOD Eat a wide range of foods to ensure that you are getting a balanced diet. This you do to ensure that your body is receiving all the nutrients it

needs. This practice covers the basis of balanced diet. STARCH Base your meals on starchy foods. Nutritionists advise that starchy foods should make up one third of the foods you eat. These starchy foods are mainly carbohydrate foods like rice, yam, cereals. They contain fibre that aids digestion and make you feel full longer, avoiding comfort eating in the process. Try to include one starchy food with each main. Most people feel starchy food are fatinducing but in truth, they contain fewer than half the calories in fatty foods. FRUITS AND VEGETABLES Eating lots of fruits and vegetables holds more importance than any of the above. Fruits and vegetables provide the body with chemicals such as interferon’s that help with repairs and strengthening of body organs and the immune system in general. It is recommended that we eat at least five portions of different vegetables a day. A glass of 100% unsweetened fruit juice can cannt as one portion and vegetables cooked into dishes also count. DISH Fish and the nutrients It provides is highly underrated in this part of the world and high importance is given to red meat. Fish is a good source of

Tips On Healthy Diet By SUCCESS OSAYI

protein and contains many vitamins and minerals including the all important omega –3. The Omega-3 fats helps to prevent heart diseases. Aim to eat of least two portions a week including at least one oily fish. CUT DOWN ON

fat. Much saturated fat can increase the amount of cholesterol in the blood and that makes the individval vulnerable to heart disease. Saturated fatsare found in many foods but mainly junk foods like packaged snacks.

heart diseases and stroke. Use food label to help you know the amount of salt in packaged foods. More than 1.5g of salt means that the food is high in salt. Less than that is healthy. DO NOT SKIP

SATURATED FAT AND SUGAR We all need some fat in our diet, but it is very important that we pay attention to the amount and type of fat we eat. There are two main types of fats saturated and unsaturated

Try to cut down or choose foods that contain unsaturated fats such as vegetable oils, fish oils, etc. LESS SALT Too much salt raises blood pressure and can cause hypertension as well as other

BREAKFAST There is this ridiculous myth that skipping breakfast is a healthy habit and that it helps in weight loss. Research has proven time and again that taking breakfast can help people control their

The Usefulness Of Cucumber

THE cucumber is the number four most cultivated vegetable in the world and known to be one of the best foods for your overall health, often referred to as a super food. Its nutritional values are often overlooked not really because of ignorance but because of its lack of appeal when introduced to the tongue. The below are 14 reasons why you should consider eating cucumbers every now and again: Cucumber rehydrates body The cucumber is very good for body hydration mainly because it is made up of 90 percent water. When eaten regularly, it compensates for body water loss. The importance of water cannot be over emphasized and eating cucumbers more than makes up for it. Cucumber fights heat inside and out Cucumbers are anti-heat agents. They fight off heat both inside and outside the human body. By regularly eating them, the body is often relieved from disturbances such as heart burns and

By SUCCESS OSAYI

spontaneous hot temperature. They can also be used as sun screen, in lotion form to prevent sun burns to the skin. Cucumber eliminates toxins All that water in cucumber acts as a virtual broom, sweeping waste products out of your body. With regular eating, cucumber is known to dissolve kidney stones. Cucumber replenishes daily vitamins Cucumbers have most of the vitamins the body needs in a single day. A B and C, which boost your immune system keep you radiant and give you energy. Make it more powerful by juicing cucumber with spinach and carrot. Do not forget to leave the skin on because it contains a good amount of vitamin C, about 12 percent of the daily recommended allowance. Cucumber supplies skin friendly minerals Cucumber is high in potassium, magnesium and silicon. That is why spas and other skin care saloons highly use cucumber based treatments. Cucumber aids in

digestion and weight loss Due to its high water and low calorie content, cucumber is an ideal source for people who are looking for weight loss. Use cucumbers in your soups and salads and other foods. Chewing cucumber gives your jaws a good workout and the fiber in it is great for digestion. Daily consumption of cucumbers can be regarded as an aid for chronic constipation. Cucumber revives the eyes Placing a chilled slice of cucumber over puffy eyes seems like an overused beauty visual but it really can help reduce under-eye bags and puffiness due to its anti inflammatory properties. Cucumber fights cancers Cucumber is known to contain secoisolariciresinol, lariciresinol and pinoresinol. The three lignans have a strong connection with reduced risk of several cancer types, including ovarian, breast, prostate and uterine cancer. Cucumber cures diabetes, reduces cholesterol and

controls blood pressure Cucumber juice contains a hormone which is needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin which is widely beneficial to diabetic

That is why cucumber is good for treating both high blood pressure and low blood pressure. Cucumber refreshes the mouth Cucumber juice heals and refreshes diseased gums. Get a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth

patients. Researchers have found that a compound called sterols in cucumbers can help decrease levels of cholesterol. Cucumbers contain a lot of fiber, potassium and magnesium. These nutrients work effectively for regulating blood pressure.

with your tongue for a half minute, the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing unpleasant breath. Cucumber smoothes hair and nails The wonder mineral Silica in cucumber makes your hair

weight. A healthy breakfast is an important part of a balanced and healthy diet. WATCH YOUR WELGHT One’s weight is a very good way to check your diet. Taking a healthy balanced diet plays on essential role in maintaining a healthy weight, which is an important part of overall good health. Being over weight or obese can lead to health conditions such as diabetes, cancers associated with body fats, heart diseases and even stroke. Being underweight can also affect your health and your eating in general. It is sad though that heavy weighted people are admired in this part of the world’s E E C A U L A R HYDRATION (6) Water intake on a regular basis is just as important as any of the above mentioned tips. It is highly important that we regularly hydrate ourselves if we seek good health we need to drink about 1.2 liters of fluid –most especially watereveryday to stop dehydration. Water, milk and fruit juice are all healthy fluids. Life expectancy is seriously improved if we concentrate on healthy diet above any other. Except for the obvious fact that you will visit hospitals less, healthy diets give you a sense of general good feeling

and nails shinier and stronger. The sulfur and silica in cucumbers help to stimulate your hair growth. Cucumber promotes joint health, relieves arthritis and gout pain As cucumber is an excellent source of silica it promotes joint health by strengthening the connective tissues. When mixed with carrot juice, cucumber can relieve gout and arthritis pain by lowering levels of the uric acid. Cucumber cures hangover To avoid a morning headache or the after effects of sleeping drunk of alcohol, you can eat a few cucumber slices before going to sleep. Cucumbers contain enough B vitamins, sugar and electrolytes to replenish many essential nutrients and reducing the severity of both hangover and headache. Cucumber keeps kidneys in shape Cucumber lowers uric acid levels in your body and hence, keeping the kidneys healthy. There are other immense benefits of a cucumber and research has found it to be one of the most nutritious and useful vegetable there is. Eating it may be quite unpleasant to some people but it is highly advisable.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013 With Damian Adizie 08076635886

Reflection

ASUU Strike: When Two Elephants Fight

THERE is tension in Nigeria. Right now, there is cold war going on in Nigeria. The youths are not happy. Parents are not happy. Traders, transporters and many others who are getting their livelihood through their services to universities are not happy. No sensible Nigerian citizen is happy with what is happening in our education sector. For almost four months ASUU has been on strike over their face-off with the Federal Government. Since then, the youths are roaming about like sheep without a shepherd in most Nigerian streets. Some of them are even beginning to engage in anti-social behaviours. An idle mind is devil’s work shop. The strike has not just affected the academic growth of the students but all those whose means of livelihood are directly or indirectly dependent on the smooth running of the schools are also affected. Even with the two peaceful but distressful demonstrations ASUU and the Government have refused to come to a peaceful compromise. Too much of anything is too bad. “When two elephants fight the grass suffers.” In the case of Nigeria whenever two elephant fight it is always the youths that suffers. Any time there is inter-party face-off, it is always the youths that suffers The youths are often misused for political thuggery and other antisocial crimes. With this almost four months strike ASUU has not just succeeded in proving to the world that the government does not care about the future welfare of the students they have also proved to the world that they, ASUU love money more than the future and well being of their children. The same bible that says,

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honour your father and mother that it may be well with you and that you may live long on earth” (Eph 6:12). This same bible also added, “Parents, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:14). St. Paul warns every parent to avoid anything that will provoke their children to anger. Young people can easily get angry. They are prune to frustration and anger. When they are angry they destroy properties and even lives. This warning is not just given to parents. It is for elders, for masters and for all those in the position of authority. Respect is reciprocal. As the children, especially the youths, are expected to obey their parents, their elders, and those in authority, the youths equally deserves people’s respect. The parents, the elders and those in authority are expected to respect themselves and avoid anything that will lead to the provocation of the youths. Any form of provocation can lead to anger and anger can easily lead to destruction. The Nigerian youths, especially the students, are the most peaceful youths in the world. They are not as violent as the Egyptian youths or other neighboring nations where there are war and all kinds of violence due to injustices. Thank God, the Nigerian youths have the grace to endure injustice in the hands of the leaders and society at large. We should

not abuse this grace of tolerance which our youths exhibit. We must call a spade a spade. The academic sector is one of the areas where our youths are being marginalized. Most of our young people pay through their noise before they could gain admission. Those who managed to gain admission into university go through hell before they could finally graduate. After paying for their school fees and registering for their courses they will still have to

is a nightmare. Almost everyone is beginning to blame ASUU for not calling off the strike even after all the negotiation with the government. If we must call a spade and spade, the government leaders should equally be sincere with themselves. When you listen to some members of ASUU union you will discover that there may be element sense in what they are saying. According to them, the political leaders are receiving a lot of money. The

• President Goodluck Jonathan

purchase the lesson notes in the name of handouts, from some greedy lecturers who are out to make money with the students at all cost. They forget that the love of money is the root of all evil. Some immoral lecturers even sleep with young students before they could release their results. Even after graduation to get employment in Nigeria

“For instance, after the strike, is there anyway to compensate the students for those months they have spent at home doing nothing? Will the government still pay ASUU for those months they did not work? How does this strike affect our relationship with the international community?”

politicians get their furniture allowances, security allowance, seating allowances and all kinds of allowances as at when due. Nobody owns them because they are the ones controlling the nation’s fund. Why then must they find it difficult to pay their lecturers, those who trained them before they got to leadership position? Apart from the Late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua who courageously declared his asset before becoming the President of Nigeria how many political leaders are ready to declare their assets? Clear conscience fears no accusation. ASUU simply wants to get their share of the national cake. They do not care who suffers the consequences. They do not even know that their own children are the ones who are

suffering the consequences of their action. Am still trying to figure out what will happen when the strike is finally called off. I mean the kind of negative effect this strike will have on the nation and on the university curriculum. For instance, after the strike, is there anyway to compensate the students for those months they have spent at home doing nothing? Will the government still pay ASUU for those months they did not work? How does this strike affect our relationship with the international community? Will anybody outside Nigeria be courageous enough to send his children to Nigeria for studies with all these strikes? These are some of the issues people should consider before embarking on strike. Two wrongs cannot make a right. The governments are not the only ones that are affected. Some insensible government leaders may not even care about strike. For instance, since ASUU has been on strike since July this year the government has been going about their normal businesses and ASUU some how believes that even if they do not go to work they must be paid after the strike. Now, you can agree with me that when two elephant fight it is not the elephant themselves that suffers it is always the grass, the students that suffer. Strike is no more a civilized way of expressing grievances. Gone were the days when people will go on strike and the government will quickly find solution because of their reputations. But now nobody cares about reputation. Strike does not change much. It is simply a transfer of anger to innocent students. I want to strongly appeal to the government and ASUU to call off this strike immediately. The youths are being pushed to the wall. If this strike is not called off before the ending of this month, I sense danger. The danger is written all over the wall. The youth have even started their peaceful demonstration. Now, they are the ones begging ASUU and the government to call off the

strike but if care is not taken we shall be the ones to beg our youths when the time comes. Whatever be the case, I still want to appeal to our beloved youths to remain calm, peaceful and prayerful. Two wrongs cannot make a right. I feel what you people are feeling. I am praying for you. Even if the government does not compensate you for the months you have lost at home. God will surely compensate you for your peaceful endurance. Do not allow anybody to use you for their selfish and political ambition. Do not use this opportunity to join bad gang. Instead, this is an opportunity for you to deepen your relationship with God. With God all things are possible. Remember, you are a destined child. God brought you into this world, especially into this nation, Nigeria, for a purpose. The purpose of God for your life must be actualized. Before you came into this nation God has already planned for you. God said through the Prophet Jeremiah, “I alone know the plans I have for you, plans for your welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Your lecturers may not have planned for you, your President may not have planned for you even your parents may not have planned for you but God has planned for you. He told Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5). My dear young man, young woman, God has a plan for you, even before he brought you into Nigeria. God has consecrated you for greatness. Favoured child of God, your future is still intact. Nobody and no amount of delay, no amount of strike can stop you from becoming what God has destined for you. Always remember, destiny may be delayed but destiny can never be denied. You must surely get there so long as you are alive. May God protect you throughout this strike period and may He bring this strike to an end and restore whatsoever you have lost during the strike - in Jesus mighty name I pray - Amen!

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

International Islamists Call For Protests Over Mursi Trial

CAIRO - Supporters of deposed Islamist President Mohamed Mursi have called on Egyptians to hold mass protests on November 4, the day he goes on trial for inciting murder, raising the prospect of more bloodshed as the country’s political crisis drags on. The trial could further inflame tensions between Mursi’s Muslim Brotherhood and the army-backed government and deepen the instability that has decimated tourism and investment in the most populous Arab state. Army chief Abdel Fattah alSisi overthrew Mursi in July after mass protests against his rule and announced a political roadmap he said would lead to free and fair elections. Backers of Mursi, Egypt’s first freely elected president, say his removal was a coup, reversing the gains of the popular uprising which toppled autocrat Hosni Mubarak in 2011. “The Alliance notes that the coup organizers would like to break the people’s and the revolution’s will by trying Dr. Mohamed Mursi, the President of the Republic, and his associates, this coming November 4th,” a pro-Mursi grouping that includes the Brotherhood said in a statement. “The Alliance also calls on all free people in Egypt and abroad to stand by the revolutionary will opposing the military coup, and that all activities should be - as they always have been within peaceful bounds that define our methods and strategy.”

A judge has said Mursi and other Brotherhood members have been charged with “inciting the killing and torture of protesters in front of the Etihadeya (presidential) palace”. The charges relate to the deaths of about a dozen people in clashes outside the presidential palace last December after Mursi enraged protesters with a decree expanding his powers. Mursi has been held in a secret location since his overthrow on July 3. Since then, Egypt has been rocked by almost daily attacks by militants in the Sinai Peninsula and clashes between supporters and opponents of the Brotherhood. Hundreds of Brotherhood members have been killed and top leaders have been jailed in one of the toughest security crackdowns in the movement’s history. Mursi’s followers accuse the government of becoming increasingly authoritarian and taking the country back to the days of Mubarak, who ruled with an iron fist for three decades. Security sources said Mursi was expected to be tried at a Cairo police institute near Tora, Egypt’s most notorious prison, which held Mubarak until he was moved to house arrest in August. Islamists have staged numerous demonstrations calling for the reinstatement of Mursi, prompting the government to consider imposing severe restrictions on protests, a move that has drawn

fire from human rights groups. Protests have spread to university campuses, including Al-Azhar, the ancient seat of Sunni Muslim learning, which has historically toed the government line. “We have seen the heroic free youth in the universities - and in particular Al-Azhar University - give the best example of steadfastness, dignity and honor,” said the alliance. “Those youth shook the thrones of the tyrants and oppressors, and spread fear in their hearts. So a salute to those free youth.” The upheaval worries Cairo’s Western allies, who were hoping the uprising that ended Mubarak’s rule would turn the region’s biggest country into a democratic success story. The United States and European Union had wanted an inclusive political process in Egypt, which has a peace treaty with Israel and controls the Suez Canal waterway between

Europe and Asia. But there are no signs that either the Brotherhood or the army-backed government is ready to compromise. Aside from the political crisis, Egypt’s interim government faces an Islamist insurgency in the Sinai, near Israel and the Gaza Strip. Gaza is run by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood. Attacks on soldiers and policemen have risen sharply since Mursi was toppled. Gunmen killed a policeman in northern Sinai on Thursday, security sources said. Fears are growing that an Islamist insurgency could take hold beyond the Sinai. A Sinaibased militant group inspired by al Qaeda claimed responsibility for a failed suicide bombing on Egypt’s interior minister in September.

IMF To Consider Extending, Enlarging Bosnian Loan Deal SARAJEVO The International Monetary Fund will consider a request by Bosnia’s authorities to extend and enlarge the Balkan country’s current stand-by loan arrangement, the head of the IMF mission in Bosnia told Reuters yesterday. “Given the track record of the authorities under the current stand-by arrangement, the IMF is happy to consider this request in November, when its mission visits,” Ruben Atoyan said,

TESSY WEDS KINDNESS The Marriage ceremonies between MISS TESSY OSAHENRHUNMWEN IDAHOSA and MASTER KINDNESS OSAZUWA OSADIAYE comes up tomorrow (Saturday October 26, 2013) at the bride’s family house, No. 117, Upper Sokponba Road, Ogbeide Street Junction, Benin City, beginning from 12noon prompt, immediately after the brief registry wedding ceremony at Oredo Marriage Registry in the early hours of the day. CONGRATULATIONS! And wishing you God’s blessing and all the good things of life in your divine union. From – Mr. & Mrs. Last M. Osagiede and family.

adding that the decision would depend on the strength of the government’s economic policies. Atoyan said the IMF’s Executive Board will approve on October 28 the disbursement of a new 48 million euro ($66 million) tranche to Bosnia under a 385 million euro deal concluded in September 2012, because the authorities have met its terms. Bosnia is made up of two highly autonomous regions, the Federation dominated by Muslim Bosniaks and Croats, and the Serb Republic, dominated by Bosnian Serbs. The Serb Republic government has adjusted its 2013 budget to reflect a 3.5 percent hike in pensions, so that the consolidated budget deficit target of 2 percent of output could be met, Atoyan explained. In the Federation, the implementation of legislation cutting military pensions and including audits of beneficiaries was progressing at a good pace, he added. Both of Bosnia’s two regions badly need the IMF cash to cover deficits in their budgets. The IMF has earlier said they had to make sure that next year’s budgets are robust enough to preserve the gains made in 2013. The lender has forecast Bosnia’s economic growth in 2013 at close to 1 percent, based on an increase in industrial output and exports. It sees gross domestic product (GDP) growth at 2 percent in 2014 and at 3.5 percent in 2015.

A supporter of ousted Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi prays in the street, left, while another holds a poster with a gesture of an open palm with four raised fingers that has become a symbol for the Rabaah al-Adawiya mosque where hundreds of Muslim brotherhood supporters were killed by security forces.

North Korea To Return 6 Detained South Koreans

SEOUL - North Korea plans to allow six detained South Koreans to return home, officials in Seoul said yesterday. Pyongyang’s Red Cross sent a letter to the South saying the South Koreans will cross over the heavily armed border at the so-called truce village of Panmunjom on Friday, according to a short statement from the South’s Unification Ministry, which is responsible for cross-border ties. The statement says Seoul plans to accept the South Koreans and investigate how they entered North Korea. Seoul provided only scant details, saying they were men ranging in age from 27 to 67. North Korea said in 2010 that it was investigating four South Koreans for allegedly illegally entering the country; it wasn’t

immediately clear whether any of them are among the six people being released Friday. Seoul says it has repeatedly asked Pyongyang to confirm the four citizens’ identities but has received no reply. Relations on the Korean Peninsula have recently improved, but the rival Koreas were trading threats of war in March and April. They’ve since reopened operations at a jointly run industrial park in the North. South Koreans visiting North Korea without government approval can be punished by up to 10 years in prison under South Korea’s National Security Law. The Korean Peninsula is still technically in a state of war because the 1950-53 Korean War ended in a truce, not a peace treaty.

Syria Frees Dozens More Women In Hostage Deal DAMASCUS - Syrian authorities have freed dozens of women prisoners and cleared a prominent young blogger for release in one of the final stages of a three-way hostage deal, a monitoring group said yesterday. President Bashar al-Assad’s government has released 61 women over the past two days as part of the Qatari- and Turkish-brokered deal, the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. A Syrian court also granted amnesty to Tal al-Mallohi, a blogger arrested while in her late teens more than a year before the revolt in Syria began in March 2011, the Observatory said. Mallohi, the grand-daughter of a former minister, was

detained for political writing in 2009. The pro-opposition Observatory said her release was imminent. The release of around 200 detained Syrian women was the main demand of kidnappers in northern Syria who had held nine Lebanese men hostage for 17 months. Those hostages and two Turkish pilots abducted in August by Lebanese gunmen in retaliation were freed last week. The kidnappings highlight how complex and regionalized Syria’s 2-1/2-year-old conflict has become. The civil war, which emerged after a violent response to peaceful protests against four decades of Assad family rule, has acquired sectarian dimensions that have pulled in neighboring countries.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

EVERY FRIDAY WEEK 15, 2013 LAST SEASON RESULT Anderson Richwell 1.2. X. Forecast

WEEK 15, 2012 NO. OF DRAWS 15

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By SAM EHEBHA GSM: 08056626091

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THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Madrid Out To End Barca’s Unbeaten Run

REAL Madrid will look to end Barcelona’s unbeaten run in La Liga when the two rivals face each other at the Camp Nou on Saturdayevening. The Catalans dropped points for the first time this season when they were held to a 0-0 draw by Osasuna in Pamplona last Saturday but remain at the top of the table with 25 points from nine matches. Madrid on the other hand registered their second league win on the trot with a 2-0 home victory over Malaga to take their tally to 22 points, but remain in third place behind city rivals Atletico Madrid. The match will also see new coaches Gerardo Martino and Carlo Ancelotti getting their first opportunities to lead their sides in the ever-anticipated clash in the Spanish football

calendar. Brazilian forward Neymar will also be facing the Whites for the first time since joining Barcelona from Santos at the start of the season but he says understands the magnitude of Saturday’s encounter. “Yes, the Clasico is the most important game for any player,” he told the club’s official website. “It’s the match every player wants to play in; it’s the game where each player wants to play his best football. “This will be my first Clasico and I hope to have a great debut, preferably with a victory. “I think the anxiety is the same before any match. I understand that we’re talking about a very important Clasico but I think that butterfly-in-the-stomach feeling is the same before any

game. “I don’t think there is anything to explain. The players, even the ones who have never experienced it, know how important a match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid is.” Barcelona have been boosted by the return of captain Carles Puyol and forward Lionel Messi, who both took part in the last league clash against Osasuna. Gareth Bale has returned to action for Madrid, but midfielder Xabi Alonso and defender Raphael Varane are expected to miss out due to injury. Last season Madrid had the better of Barcelona in their league encounters, holding them to a 2-2 draw at the Camp Nou before winning 21 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Xavi Hernandez

Ancelotti Defends Ineffective Bale, Benzema REAL Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti insisted he was happy with the performances of Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema in his side’s 2-1 win over Juventus, despite both looking far from their best. Bale replaced Benzema with showed in the second half. 25 minutes to go on Wednesday “I want to say something about after the Frenchman had missed Benzema. I asked him to help the an incredible chance to make it team a lot defensively in tracking 3-1 to the hosts. (Andrea) Pirlo,” he said. However, Ancelotti lauded “With three central Benzema’s defensive midfielders, Pirlo is hard for our contribution and blamed Bale’s midfielders to get up to press. lack of an impact on the lack of “Bezema didn’t score, but he intensity his team in general worked very well for the team

and I am satisfied with his performance. “Bale came on when the game lacked intensity and that didn’t help him to play better. “His physical condition is better and he is now ready to start a game.” Despite moving to the brink of qualification with their third win in three Champions League games, Ancelotti admitted his frustration with Real’s display

Napoli Chief Wants UCL ‘Revolution’

NAPOLI President Aurelio De Laurentiis says he wants to develop a new European competition featuring only the biggest teams from Europe’s top five leagues, and that some Premier League and Bundesliga clubs are interested in the idea. De Laurentiis, 64, told L’Equipe that clubs from England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain could be making a lot more money from the Champions League with a concept he described as a “revolution” for the continental game. “I want to reduce the league to 16 teams and to create a large European Cup that would bring together the five biggest teams from the five best European leagues,” he said.

De Laurentiis

“One week would be devoted to the national championship, the other to the European championship with teams like Manchester United, Real Madrid, PSG, Bayern, AC Milan. “It would be crazy, the end of the world! This competition could generate five billion euros — a revolution.” De Laurentiis maintains, however, that all the clubs taking part would have to balance their books. He also revealed that he had not yet discussed his plan with UEFA president Michel Platini but that he would seek to set up a breakaway tournament if European football’s governing body did not back the idea.

“I’m insisting especially on a new European Cup,” he said. “If UEFA persists in not listening to such proposals, then it will be necessary to create an unofficial league. “But I hope that Michel Platini, with his culture and his intelligence, will continue as the head of UEFA and will open himself to dialogue.

after the break as they played the majority of the half against 10 men. Two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo either side of Fernando Llorente’s equaliser had put the hosts in command at the break. And their stranglehold on the game was strengthened when Giorgio Chiellini was harshly shown a straight red card for a foul on Ronaldo just three minutes after the restart. However, Madrid failed to press home their man advantage and were left hanging on towards the end as Juve pushed in search of a point. “I liked the attitude of the team and how we played in spells. “I didn’t like how we ended the game though. We needed to have more intensity. “We didn’t need to go and score more goals, but we should have had more control.” Juve boss Antonio Conte, meanwhile, was less than pleased with the performance of

Inter To Test Impressive Hellas

German referee Manuel Graefe. “It is obvious the game was conditioned by some of the referee’s decisions,” he said. “We were playing against a great side, but we also had little help this evening.” The defeat leaves the Italian champions in some difficulty as regards qualifying for the last 16 with just two points from their opening three games. Galatasaray now lead Juventus by two points and the Turkish champions will host Conte’s men in the final game in the group. However, Conte believes his side showed enough quality over the 90 minutes at the Bernabeu to suggest they will still make it through. “Now we have a difficult Champions League in front of us. “Today with 10 players we showed great physical and tactical energy. “It will be tough, but we still depend on ourselves.”

HELLAS Verona will look to continue with their unexpected impressive form this season when they head over to the San Siro to face Inter. Few would have predicted the revelation that was to unfold at the Bentegodi this season as the new boys from Verona have managed to pull off a string of impressive results. Their 11-year hiatus from Serie A was welcomed with a win over Milan in the opening day of the season, while a 4-1 away win over Bologna and their perfect record at home sees them sit fourth on the log. Their weekend adversaries, Inter, sit just a point below, but come into the game having suffered a 3-0 defeat to Roma and a 3-3 draw away to Torino last Sunday. The Nerazzurri were forced to play with 10 men in their encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, after goalkeeper Samir Handanovic was sent off after just five minutes of play.

“He failed to do his duty last night and that is a clear issue that UEFA should be dealing with.” [LINK: City complain as Toure subjected to monkey taunts] Toure himself was evidently deeply hurt by the incident. “I’m not just disappointed, I’m furious,” he said. “I’m very, very disappointed about what those fans have done and I think UEFA has to take action because players with the same colour of skin will always be in the same position. “For me, as captain, I was wearing an armband which said ‘no to racism’ and I was totally disappointed. “Maybe they could ban the stadium, I don’t know, for a couple of years or a couple of months. “It’s stupid these people. I

don’t know, it just happens in football. It’s unbelievable. UEFA has to take action to right it otherwise I think they will just continue.” [LINK: Champions League is fertile ground for fascists and racists] So far this season, UEFA has imposed full stadium bans on three clubs - Dinamo Zagreb of Croatia, Legia Warsaw of Poland and Honved of Hungary - for racist behaviour by their supporters while five other clubs have had partial stadium closures imposed. They are: Lazio (who were originally handed a full stadium closure but that was reduced on appeal), Polish clubs Lech Poznan and Piast Gliwice, APOEL Nicosia of Cyprus and Croatian outfit HNK Rijeka.

Champions: CSKA Deny Fans Targeted Toure With Monkey Taunts

CSKA Moscow have denied that their fans aimed monkey taunts at Manchester City’s Yaya Toure during the Champions League clash on Wednesday. UEFA has confirmed it is investigating the incident, and has warned that clubs will no longer escape with just fines if their supporters are guilty of discriminatory behaviour. The sport’s European governing body is waiting for the reports from the referee and match delegate who were at City’s match against on Wednesday night before deciding on any charge against the Russian club after Toure was subjected to apparent monkey chants. [LINK: Fines not enough to stop racist chanting, says UEFA spokesman] CSKA spokesman Michael Sanadze insisted that there is no case to answer, however.

“There is no subject to discuss,” Sanadze said. “Nothing special happened. “There was a lot of noise in the stadium. Nobody else, other than Yaya Toure, heard anything. The only trouble that has come about was because Yaya Toure heard something.” That claim seems to fly in the face of what appeared to happen on the pitch, with Toure and his team-mates protesting to the referee during the game - only to be waved away and told to carry on. Referee Ovidio Hategan’s failure to act on the complaint led Kick It Out chairman Lord Ouseley to call for him to be banned from officiating at future games. “The referee should not be refereeing again,” Ouseley told the BBC.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

One Point Separates Chelsea, City

Sunday Derby: MANCHESTER City and Chelsea will renew their rivalry when they meet on Sunday afternoon at Stamford Bridge with just one point separating them. Manuel Pellegrini will lead his troops into the game in high spirits after their 2-1 win against CSKA Moscow which meant they moved second in their Champions League group. Sergio Aguero scored twice at the Khimki to help secure the three points and versatile defender Pablo Zabaleta admits he is pleased with having done the business on Russian soil. “We knew before the game that it was going to be really tough and the conditions were really difficult,” UEFA.com quotes him as saying. “I think we played well and it was a good performance. “The three points are very important for us to keep progressing. This match was worth 50% of the qualification for the next round and we won, so I am really happy. “We know that Sergio is one of the main players in our team. He is in great form and it is very important for us that he is playing well for our team.” Chelsea also come into the encounter on the back of some midweek joy when they swept aside Shalke 3-0 to move top of their respective Champions League group. Fernando Torres got on the scoresheet twice against the Germans, while Eden Hazard grabbed the third goal to seal the win. Goalkeeper Petr Cech has praised the Blues attack

force and believes, should they continue to find the back of the net with such ease, Chelsea will be a force to be reckoned with this season in both domestic and European competitions. “What was so great to see is that the strikers were under a lot of pressure from everyone because they were not scoring and it has all changed in these last two

Yaya Toure

MANCHESTER United striker Wayne Rooney said he had no problems with claims in former manager Alex Ferguson’s autobiography after inspiring his side to a 1-0 win over Real Sociedad. In his new book, launched on Tuesday, Ferguson said he became concerned about Rooney’s fitness during his final season at United and reiterated his claim that the 27year-old striker had asked to leave the club in May. Ferguson stated that Rooney “asked away”, but in subsequent television interviews broadcast on Tuesday, he conceded that the former Everton player had not submitted a written transfer request. Speaking after Wednesday’s Champions League Group A fixture at Old Trafford, Rooney told Sky Sports: “He’s come back and corrected the story that I put a transfer request in. “He’s gone back and proven that I didn’t. He’s obviously got his own opinion. I’ve not seen him since he retired and I’m happy under the new management. “The other stuff doesn’t concern me. That’s the past; I’m looking to the future now. “The new coaches have come in and it feels like a new lease of life. We are working to be successful as a team. “We have a lot of players who are hungry. Results haven’t been what we want, but we’re working to put that right.” United are eight points

UEFA Must Act Over ‘Stupid’ Chants YAYA Toure has called for UEFA to act after the Manchester City midfielder was subjected to “stupid” racist chants in their 2-1 Champions League win over CSKA Moscow on Wednesday. disappointed,” he said. Sergio Aguero bagged a brace “I want to see UEFA do as Manuel Pellegrini’s side came something and take some action. from a goal behind to secure an We have to be as strong as important win in Russia, but possible otherwise they will Toure was left disappointed with continue like that. the unsavoury chanting from the “Maybe they could ban the stands. stadium, I don’t know, for a “For me, as captain, I was couple of years or a couple of wearing an armband which said months. ‘no to racism’ and I was totally “The club may say they have to educate the fans, but I think it’s enough. Too much is too much. We have to stop it now. “I played in Ukraine. It’s not wood no injuries. Over the years only in Eastern Europe and I I’ve got used to playing a lot of have some friends who have had games and I’m okay with my problems too. body.” “It’s stupid these people. I Arsenal face Chelsea in the don’t know, it just happens in Capital One Cup on Oct. 29, and football. It’s unbelievable. Bendtner is expected to start that They’re stupid, they’re just match, with Giroud adding in stupid. UEFA has to take action The Guardian: “Maybe I will to right it otherwise I think they will just continue.” have some rest next week.” City manager Pellegrini Giroud, who was speaking confirmed he did not know about after the 2-1 defeat at home to the chants during the game, but Borussia Dortmund, stressed that backed his player’s calls for he did not “want to look for UEFA to take the appropriate excuses as to why we lost”, with action. the Gunners now focused on “I didn’t know what extending their two-point happened,” he said. “There were advantage at the top of the some shouts against our player, Premier League when they travel it is a pity that we still have those to Crystal Palace on Saturday. stupid things. “We lost but we have won “But I hope the right message almost every other game,” he can be put out for Yaya and Manchester City. I cannot said. “There was just the defeat answer the question about how to Aston Villa and the draw at Yaya is feeling as I haven’t West Brom in the league. It’s not spoken to Yaya, so I cannot say the time to really be worried but anything about that.” we want to come back on City’s regular captain, Vincent, Saturday and win at Crystal Kompany, ruled out through Palace.”

Olivier Giroud Relishing OLIVIER Giroud feels he is Lead Role coping with the physical demands of leading the Arsenal attack this season. Giroud has been in fine form in the current campaign as Arsenal top the Premier League, but he has had little rest, with Nicklas Bendtner the only other striker currently available to Arsene Wenger given injuries to Lukas Podolski, Theo Walcott and Yaya Sanogo. As a result, the 27-year-old, who now appears to be ahead of Karim Benzema in the pecking order for France, has made 18 appearances for club and country already this season. He has started each of Arsenal’s eight Premier League games and five Champions League ties, rested only for the Capital One Cup victory over West Bromwich Albion, but he is confident he can cope with the workload. “I feel good,” the former Montpellier striker told Arsenal.com. “I’m used to playing a lot of games and I feel good with my body, so touch

games,” he told Standard Sport. “We were saying it doesn’t matter as long as the team are winning but suddenly you see Samuel get his first one, which was an important one to put us 2-1 up against Cardiff. Now Fernando has scored two more, so it’s fantastic. “It’s great for everyone’s confidence if the team play

well and score — goals are also what you need as a striker. “Fernando deserved a hattrick because he played so well, took his goals very well and was unlucky to hit the crossbar. “As hard as he’s found it to score in the League, he keeps scoring in Europe. He scored very important goals when we won the Champions League (in 2012) and the Europa League (in 2013).”

Rooney At East With Ferguson Revelations

injury, tweeted his views on the matter. With the prospect of a World Cup on Russian soil in five years’ time, FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce called on the Russian authorities to clamp down on racism. Speaking to Radio Five, he said: “Absolutely no shadow of doubt about it. The Russian federation have got to assure — along with the Russian government — that these incidents are put to bed because it’s happening too often. Too much abuse has been happening in many, many parts of eastern Europe. “Eastern Europe have problems, but we have problems

in other parts of the world as well. It’s got to be eradicated and the only way is to take serious action against the people who do it - don’t allow them to watch football matches.” “I am absolutely appalled by events of this evening. I’ve always been outspoken against any form of racialism or sectarianism in sport. FIFA and UEFA are absolutely united in making sure these offences hopefully will become a thing of the past. “I’ve always said fining clubs is not a solution to this problem. A lot of the clubs take every step they can — they can’t stop some of these idiots.”

MANCHESTER United will be aiming to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they host Stoke City on Saturday. Kick-off at Old Trafford is set for 16h00 CAT. The Red Devils conceded a late goal to draw 1-1 at home to Southampton last weekend, a result that raised further question marks over their slow start to the season under new manager David Moyes. However, a 1-0 win over Real Sociedad in the UEFA Champions League in midweek saw United put up a much more convincing display that sees them placed top of Group A and

on course for the knockout rounds. But, just as against Southampton, United did waste a number of opportunities and had to withstand a relatively nervous final few minutes in which the chance of conceding a late equaliser was always present. It is a failing Moyes knows has to be addressed, starting with the clash against the Potters this weekend. “I still had the feeling of Saturday left inside me and while it was 1-0, you know you can always lose a goal at a corner or free kick,” said Moyes after the

behind leaders Arsenal in the Premier League, but the success over La Real left them a point clear of Bayer Leverkusen at the top of their Champions League group with three games to play. Rooney helped United take the lead after only 69 seconds, with visiting defender Inigo Martinez inadvertently diverting the ball into his own net after the England striker had hit the post following a slaloming run. Rooney, who celebrates his 28th birthday on Thursday, has found a rich vein of form, and manager David Moyes applauded his recent contributions. “I was nearly going to say he was back to the old Wayne Rooney, but it might be better if we say it’s the new Wayne Rooney,” said the Scot. “I think that he’s capable of doing different things. He’s been great around the club. I really couldn’t explain how hard he’s worked; he’s been incredible, the work he’s put in and the extra training he’s putting in. “Hopefully in the end Manchester United will benefit and — I don’t know if I’m going to say ‘hopefully’ — England might as well.” Rooney was partnered in attack by Javier Hernandez after Robin van Persie was ruled out with minor toe and groin injuries, but Moyes said he expected the Dutchman to be available for Saturday’s home game against Stoke City. “Robin I hope will be fit for the weekend,” he said. “He’s had a couple of niggling injuries, even before he went on international duty and they’ve all just caught up on him a little bit. “I felt if I could get a chance to give him a breather, I would do, and fortunately for us, it worked out fine.” Wednesday’s game bore worrying resemblances for Moyes to last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Southampton, who snatched a point with an 89thminute equaliser, and he conceded: “We do need to get a bit more ruthless.” La Real coach Jagoba Arrasate described Martinez’s own goal as a “terrible mistake” and said his team “never got our game together”. The result left the Basque side four points adrift of third-place Shakhtar Donetsk at the bottom of Group A and Arrasate hinted that his focus was already shifting towards securing a place in the Europa League.

Man Utd Host Stoke

match on Wednesday evening. “We do need to get more ruthless.”

Wagne Rooney

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

CAF Confirms Nov For Champions League Final

My Job At Sunshine Not Threatened - Amoo FATAI Amoo, the Head Coach, Sunshine Stars FC of Akure yesterday described the recent call for his dismissal by the club’s supporters, due to his alleged poor performance, as baseless. Amoo dismissed the threat in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. Reports say that the “Akure gunners’’ finished the justconcluded 2012/2013 Globacom Premier League in the 12th position, with 52 points from 38 matches. “I want to categorically state that those allegations are sponsored. The rumour was fuelled by those that are disappointed that the team didn’t suffer relegation. “The speculations are unfounded and I will advise those peddling the rumour to desist from such; they should not bring chaos into the club,’’ Amoo said. Amoo told newsmen that he would continue to improve himself as a coach, in order to impact positively on players under his tutelage, and to get the club back on the winning track. “I’m one of the few coaches that try to re-invent every season, so as we speak, I will soon be going for a refresher course in America. “I believe that learning is a continuous process, as long as one is still alive. I train myself yearly, so I’m in tune with current trends,’’ he said. Reports say that the 2012/ 2013 NPFL season ended on October 20, while the 2013/ 2014 season is expected to kick off on November 22,

2013. On the time frame for next season’s resumption date and its feasibility, Amoo told newsmen that the break was too short for clubs to restore back to their form. “Professionally speaking, I think the break is short; anything is possible in Nigeria. “So, I won’t rule out the possibility of the November 22 resumption date, Sunshine Stars will be ready whenever they are,’’ he added. • Lady Omorede Osifo, Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Edo State

Edo Football Programme

Govt Assure On Rapid Development BY NICHOLAS EBOIGBE

THE Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Omorede Osifo has expressed government preparedness to continue in the development of Sports as part of effort to transform the lives of the young people in the state. Hon. Osifo gave the assurance to enjoy their livelihood during the formal presentation courtesy participation in the of the one hundred and five game of football. players groomed by Coach The Sports Commissioner Amodu Shuaibu under the aegis said sports remain one area of of Edo Football Development human capital development that Programme adding that can help redirect the energies of Governor Oshiomhole has the young people in the state to started fulfilling his set goal to build a career or profession for develop the youth. themselves. “I am delighted seeing the “Sports can remove the Governor’s dream and vision people from negative vices such which began over two years ago as kidnapping, armed robbery being realized. and others. This is so because She stated further that the football as a sport is capable of Governor’s vision has to do with adding value to the lives of total development as well as people. building the lives of the people She called on parents to

Keshi UnHappy Over No Pay

NIGERIA coach Stephen Keshi has said that not being paid for eight months has been the lowest point as the country’s coach. Keshi has this month clocked two years as the Super Eagles handler and he told MTNFootball.com that being

• Stephen Keshi

owed salaries for as many as eight months has been his most disappointing experience as the coach of Nigeria. “The lowest point of my career is working and not being paid for seven to eight months. I have never had this kind of experience before,” the former Nigeria captain said. “In Mali, they will never owe you. Your salary will hit your account before the end of every month. It was the same thing in Togo. “Owing me up to seven months makes me feel I am not being appreciated. It is like they my employers think I am being favoured in what I am doing. “I am not being favoured. Whatever I am doing here, I am doing it with everything I have

and I need to be respected to be given my pay. “I don’t like discussing about money issues and if there is any NFF member who said we can work for free, then I will want to speak with him face to face. “If they say we can work for free and that they are not going to pay, so be it. “I can’t have my family abroad and I will be in debts because I have not been paid for seven months and somebody is saying we should not complain.” Keshi is on a monthly salary of five million Naira (over $30,000). He led Nigeria to third Africa Cup of Nations triumph in February and he is on the verge of qualifying the country to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

encourage their wards or children to take part in sports as they stand to enjoy a lot of benefits in future as against what it was in the past. She explained that the Governor reposed strong confidence in Coach Amodu Shuaibu and glad that he was able to deliver the goods as expected of him. “I want to thank you, Coach Shuaibu Amodu for identifying with the Edo football development Programme in the state and for your immense

contributions which culminated in the success of the programme,” Osifo said. The Technical Adviser of Edo Football Development Programme, Coach Shuaibu Amodu explained that a total number of one thousand players had two and half years ago appeared for screening out of which one hundred and five of them were selected. According to him, in the Under-13 and 15 categories 35 were picked. While 35 were picked from the Under-17 another 35 players were equally selected from the Under-20 respectively.

CAF has announced the dates for the African Champions League final between Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly. The first leg will be played at Orlando Stadium on November 2 at 18h30, while the second leg will be played seven days later at a venue still to be confirmed. But the return match is likely to be played in the city of Hurghad, where Ahly and rivals Zamalek hosted their opponents in this tournament to avoid violent clashes in the capital Cairo. CAF confirmed the dates after meeting with Francebased marketing wing Sport5 to discuss television coverage and the logistics of the games. “I can confirm we have received correspondence from CAF regarding the dates for the twoleg final,” said Pirates administration executive Floyd Mbele yesterday. “For now, the focus for us is on the Soweto derby [against Kaizer Chiefs] on Saturday, and we will only start with the preparations for the final against Al Ahly after the domestic fixture.” Pirates first reached the final in 1995, which they won after beating Ivory Coast’s ASEC Mimosa 1-0 through a superb goal by Jerry Sikhosana.

Onigbinde, Ogunjobi, Others React To 3SC Relegation

ADEGBOYE Onigbinde, a former coach of the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, has expressed disappointment at the relegation of the Ibadan side from the Glo Premier League. Onigbinde, who coached the then IICC Shooting Stars in the mid-1980’s, told newsmen in Lagos that the club was like his “baby’’. He said that he was not, therefore, in the best position to advice on steps that could be taken to reposition the club, but added that the management was in a better position to do so. It would be recalled that this would be the second time that the club would be relegated in the last seven years. 3SC first got relegated in 2006 and eventually gained promotion back to the premier league in 2009. “Well, as a lover of the team, the team is like a baby to me. I’m not happy that the team is going on relegation. “As for what to do to resuscitate the team, let the

technical people and the administrators meet and think of what to do to change the fortunes of the club,’’ Onigbinde said. In the same vein, Taiwo Ogunjobi, a former 3SC defence stalwart, also expressed sadness at the club’s relegation to the

lower division. Ogunjobi, who was also a former General Manager of the club, urged the Oyo State football authorities to ensure that only knowledgeable individuals were appointed to revive the club.

Dolphins Express Gratitude To Rivers Govt

THE Management of Dolphins FC of Port Harcourt has expressed its appreciation to the Rivers State Government for its support during the justconcluded 2012/2013 Globacom Premier League season. This was contained in a statement signed by the club’s Media Officer, China Acheru, which was made available to newsmen in Lagos. The statement quoted Dolphins’ General Manager, Dumbo Awanen, as saying that the government’s support was crucial to their season. Reports say that Dolphins

finished in the ninth position in the league, which ended on October 20, with Kano Pillars as the champions. The statement also quoted Awanen as being grateful to God, the Rivers State government and the state’s sports ministry. “They supported us all through the season; the government, the commissioner, players, coaches and fans all stood by us and I want to thank them all for their prayers and support. “For the government and the ministry, they ensured monies were paid on time and for the players, they gave their all.

THE NIGERIAN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

Ghana Players Scared To Play In Cairo - Gyan

Brazil Chases FIFA For

Reimbursement BRAZILIAN state prosecutors said Wednesday they are prepared to sue World soccer body FIFA to recover almost $100m of public cash spent on building temporary structures at venues that will host next year’s World Cup. According to the prosecutors’ office, as quoted by Brazilian media, the Brazilian government wants to recover 130 million reais ($60m) from FIFA and also pursue the organization for an additional 34 million reais dating back to last June’s Confederations Cup, the World Cup dress rehearsal. Brazil’s argument is that any temporary facility will not be of post-Cup benefit to the Brazilian people hence the state should not have to foot the bill. FIFA’s view is that it does not own the stadiums and is therefore not liable for associated facilities either. The organisation did not immediately comment on the prosecutors’ move. The Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper meanwhile quoted the local World Cup organising committee as saying that “no stadium can host a global event without adaptations” owing to the number of fans, volunteers and world media who will attend the games across the 12 venues as the event returns to Brazil for the first time since 1950. The Confederations Cup saw major public protests against the multibillion cost of staging the event. Protestors insist the money would have been better spent on poor infrastructure, education and health and have criticised the building of new stadiums in cities such as Manaus and Natal which have no sizeable local team.

GHANA captain Asamoah Gyan claims many of his Black Stars teammates are against the idea of playing Egypt in in Cairo for the World Cup playoff return leg next month. The Al Ain striker says they feel intimidated by the deteriorating security concerns in the North African country. FIFA has set a 28 October deadline to confirm whether the match will be played in Cairo or at a neutral venue.

Italy Continues Fight Against Racism

Diego Costa

Brazil World Cup: Scolari

ITALIAN football is continuing to show its determination to fight discrimination as an 18-year-old amateur player has been handed a 10-match ban for racially abusing an opponent. The Clusone player had racially insulted an opponent during his side’s game with Pontirolese after being the

Tricked Into Costa Admission

A prank on Spanish radio has tricked Brazil boss Luiz Felipe Scolari into admitting that he wants Diego Costa in his squad at next summer’s World Cup. competition. Costa is currently the subject “If the World Cup was today I of an unseemly ‘tug of war’ would bring him to Brazil,” between the Brazilian and Scolari said. “I like Diego. The Spanish football associations, first choice is Fred, who is but appears to have decided to injured at the moment. Diego is stick with his initial decision to the second, and I need to look switch allegiance from the land for a third.” of his birth to the country where Costa has said that he has made he now lives and plays for up his mind on his international Atletico Madrid. future, however he cannot reveal The saga took another twist on it yet. It remains quite possible Wednesday night when a that the attacker will be selected member of comedy troupe ‘El in squads by both Spain coach Group Risa’ called Scolari Vicente Del Bosque and Scolari claiming to be Atletico Madrid ahead of November’s friendly president Enrique Cerezo, with internationals. the conversation broadcast by “I am going to call up Diego Spanish radio show ‘El Partido Costa for the pair of games on de las 12’. Nov. 16 and 19 in Miami and The Selecao boss unwittingly Toronto,” Scolari told ‘Cerezo’. revealed that he was a big fan of “We have information that Spain Costa’s and would ideally will call him up, but he has include him in his 23 for the played two games for Brazil. I

FEPSGA: 30 Football Cl;ubs To THE President of Federation Participate In Play-off of Public Service Games (FEPSGA), Dr Victor Orji on Wednesday said 30 football clubs would participate in the football play-off on Nov. 4 at the National stadium. He disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. He said the decision was reached after the just concluded Congress of FEPSGA that all screening for the game should end this month. The FEPSGA president said the play-off, which would to kick-off between Nov. 4 and Nov. 9 would feature 24 football clubs. He said 14 out of the 30 clubs that would participate in the play-off would be selected to play alongside with the other

Asamoah Gyan

eight teams that qualified from the last season. Orji however said that their selection would be based on performance. “We agreed at the just concluded congress that all screening should end this month and the play-off should hold between Nov. 4 and Nov. 9 at the national stadium. “We expect 30 clubs to participate in the play-off, out of which only 14 will be selected. “They are therefore expected to participate with the other eight teams that made it to the quarter finals in the last game. “Those eight teams qualified automatically based on their

performance,” he said Orji said that basketball was introduced into the game for the first time, stating that he was surprised that it was not included. “I was surprise that basketball was not part of FEPSGA. “When the coach of grassroots basketball advised that we should include it in the game, I accepted because I don’t know why it won’t be included in the first place. “So, basketball will be competed for the first time in this edition and 15 NBA have indicated interest,” he said. Orji said that they were yet to decide on which state to host the game.

think he will opt for Brazil and not Spain. It is the player’s decision.” The former Chelsea manager said he had not spoken personally to Costa, but had been

in touch with the player’s agent Jorge Mendes. “I did not want to speak with the player,” Scolari said. “But I did talk to Jorge and said I wanted to call Diego up for the two games in November, and then decide whether to pick him for the World Cup.”

Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Organises Clinic For U-10, U-14

IN a bid to expose young tennis players, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the ongoing 2013 Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championships is holding a 4day clinic for U-10 and U-14 players. The Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, venue of the clinic, was a beehive of activities on Wednesday as no fewer than 76 kids were at the opening day of the clinic, which is being coordinated by the tournament’s head coach, Wale Oke. The kids, who were excited to be playing tennis, were taken through a fitness test, how to serve and a firsthand knowledge on how to play tennis. One of the coaches, Uzor Okiti, said: “The players’ fitness level will be checked. They will be taught about how to hold the rackets and how to serve. “We’ll also look out for their fore and backhands, to ascertain how well they can use them. “At the end of the competition, we will look out for the very best, who will be monitored, nurtured and groomed to become world beaters,” he said. Oke said that the junior clinic would come up every year, alongside the main event. “This is a project which will come up alongside the Governor’s Cup, every year, and as time goes on, the next top stars

of this country will come from the clinic,” he said. Wale Oladunjoye, the Tournament Director, said the clinic was initiated as a result of the ‘not-too-impressive’ performance of local players in the competition. Oladunjoye added that the initiative came as a result of the love the tournament organisers had for the game. “It has been so disheartening to see some of our players performing below expectation, over the years. “These young ones will be trained appropriately and nurtured in the best possible way, to ensure that they come out tops in the near future,” he said. The clinic ends on Saturday. Meanwhile, all the Nigerian players have crashed out in both the men and women’s singles and women doubles of the Week 2 tournament. Lawal Shehu, ranked 1,786 by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), was the last to leave, as he was beaten by India’s Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan, seeded two, 6-0, 6-3, to qualify for the quarterfinal. NAN notes that Sunday Maku, Lawal Shehu, Kabiru Abdulmalik, Christain Paul, Balami Umaru, Emmanuel Idoko and Candy Idoko, are, however, still in the men’s doubles of the Week 2 tournament.

subject of a dangerous tackle. He was shown a red card and the referee included the incident in his match report. As the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) has implemented UEFA’s recommended punishment on racist abuse, the player will now have to serve a 10-game suspension, although Clusone president Valter Pianezzi told the Eco di Bergamo he felt that was excessive. “What he did is condemnable, but we shouldn’t make him out to be a criminal,” he said. “It’s an exaggeration to ban a lad of his age for 10 games after he showed his regret and said sorry, but these are the new directives from the CONI and he’s been given the minimum punishment, for which we cannot even lodge an appeal. “Something like this is frustrating for a club who try to bring up our players with principles and precise rules.” The story emerges during a week in which UEFA is strengthening its stance on racism with its FARE (Football Against Racism in Europe) Action Week. Videos were shown ahead of all Champions League and Europa League games this week, while the teams passed along an anti-racism pennant during the line-up ceremonies. “We have already seen in certain countries ... where incidents have happened that the national associations have taken a very strong stance as UEFA is doing against racism,” UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino told the governing body’s official website. “

Mario Balotelli

THE NIGERIAN

CMYK

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013

N255m Bullet Proof Cars: A Case Of

Customised Safety And Corruption

THE Muslims who could afford the pricey rams needed for the celebration of Eid al-Adha, a Muslim observance otherwise known as the Feast of Sacrifice were yet to finish their celebrations, and the majority of other Muslims who could not were still bemoaning their regular financial incapacity to celebrate in like manner as other wealthy or fortunate believers when the news of the N255m (Two hundred and fiftyfive million naira) worth of bullet proof vehicles for the Aviation Minister bashed in. For me, I could immediately feel the lyrics of the young iconic musician, 2face echoing in my head: The lyrics which can be interpreted to mean that another story or movie is about to begin. I could also hear the news sounding like ‘Corruption time; Nigeria time’. A phrase I believe you would recall as a cliché used regularly to demand attentiveness when beginning a narrative of most fairytales. Or furthermore, what sounds like a call to demand full participation in the most highlighted part of a typical present day’s church service, which is boldly announced as ‘Offering time; Blessing time’ That our media; print and electronic would be awash with stories appertaining to how the matter is handled from now on, is surely not going to reveal the dexterity in our probing method leading to acceptable outcomes. What is likely going to be more visible is the tenacity and inventiveness that would be displayed in the manner of cover-up, which would consume a better part of the time spent on the matter, why the remaining time would be spent on aimless gossips of how the facts became very terrified to come out from its hiding. Instructively, the cover-

up may have started. If what has been making the rounds in the media is anything to go by, then the works of how to force the matter under the carpet no doubt has started. To wit, the Federal government is already angry about how the information leaked from Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) I learnt that the Acting Director General of NCAA has been trying to justify the procurement of the expensive 2 BMW high security sedan as necessary to protect a Minister who he claims has done so well in the aviation industry to warrant people’s hatred. The head even mentioned that the vehicles, apart from being necessary to protect their foreign visitors against dangerous Nigerians, it would not be the first time such vehicles have been bought by the Agency for top government officials. In addition, some youths from the South-Eastern part of Nigeria have even rolled out the drums in support of their tribal ambassador. Their chanting has been loud about ‘Do our Minister; no harm’ - and interestingly on a higher scale, this is a Minister, who needs no introduction as one of the most influential in the current regime, even as the Federal government knows that allowing the matter to receive the kind of full-disclosure most Nigerians are clamouring for would amount to a snide in its fight against corruption. The protest by Anti-Corruption Network to raise their displeasure against the continued sit in office of the accused Aviation Minister was attacked by some opposing youths. And to crown it, the body’s Secretary General Dino Melaye was reportedly arrested. In any case, what would even constitute more hindrance is the unfortunate state of our

country where compromise can be used as a means of survival: When for a loaf of bread, there would be more than enough persons who in search of a cure for their daily hunger, can claim with an oath, how they were bribed to make false accusations in order to tarnish the soaring image of the Minister. Very importantly too, if such compromises cannot be obtained at the lower level, it could be obtained

consoling to enjoy for a while the build-up to the final ‘No case to answer’ submission which would be enacted in smooching everybody’s curiosity, than to actually witness a rare case of the matter being probed to the point of becoming a turning point in our search for a country founded on ethical values. Significantly during the build-up of the defence that would make most Nigerians seem

FEED BACK By KINGSLEY OGBEIDE-IHAMA of some very terrible elements threatening her life, and as the reason behind the wise decision to especially customise her security in our well known insecure country, even if it means using our typical customised

• Stella Oduah, Aviation Minister

at the higher level by making the case-file suddenly disappear - that is if the supplier of the vehicles is not willing to recant by claiming it mistakenly supplied the vehicles to the Aviation Ministry, instead of somewhere else. Therefore, it can only be

ungrateful for giving attention to the diversionary elements out to tarnish those who have resolved to put the country on an enviable pedestal, the diabolic leakage of the Minister’s security effects would be used to reinforce the high suspicion of the existence

corruption of spending prior to approval. However, while critically considering the above scenarios, we should also reflect on the nature and timing of certain occurrences which help to portray the ‘Nigeria Project’ as a myth. Firstly is the on-going shortfall in

revenue accruing to the Federal, States and Local governments being blamed on the oil theft, and threatening the financial requirements of running the country albeit ruggedly: Secondly is the majority of Muslims who understand that it is very possible for every believer to have their needs of a worthy celebration delivered free of charge from the abundance of God’s given wealth in their fatherland, and who are still reflecting on the value of their silence in a country that is almost tipping them into the abyss: And finally is the poor managerial or regulatory activities of the Aviation Ministry which is again revealed by the plane crash bearing the remains of Late Chief Olusegun Agagu. But sadly in the eyes of the Nigeria’s ruling class, when all these conjoin to pass their messages, they would eventually be considered not as threatening as what endangers a Minister when she is diligently doing her job: And Nigerians as always would soon be made to appreciate the need to use another customised corruption in achieving for a ‘worthy’ Minister, a customised safety. Anti corruption network Dino Melaye

“If what has been making the rounds in the media is anything to go by, then the works of how to force the matter under the carpet no doubt has started. To wit, the Federal government is already angry about how the information leaked from Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) I learnt that the Acting Director General of NCAA has been trying to justify the procurement of the expensive 2 BMW high security sedan as necessary to protect a Minister who he claims has done so well in the aviation industry to warrant people’s hatred.”

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