THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
The Nigerian
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 • Vol. 38 NO.361• MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 20 13 • N100.00 DEVELOPMENT
cmyk
Pg. 20
Governance In Nigeria: Between Nat’l Interest And Personal Ambition
INT’L
FEATURES Pg 26
Abortion Law: Supreme Court Splits On Hearing Case
Delta Community Seeks FG Assistance WARRI (DELTA) - The Ugborodo Community in In Shoreline Protection shorelines. Escravos, Warri Southreduce the community’s concrete embankment. West Local Government Area of Delta State, has called on the Federal Government to assist in the protection of its
The community head, Mr. Wellington Ojogor, who spoke with Journalists yesterday, said that this would
loss of land to the sea. He said that the protection could be done through the piling of the shorelines with steel or
Ojogor explained that the community was losing vast portions of its land mass to the sea Continues on page 2
Anambra Guber Polls
APC Gives Evidence To Cancel Election
LAGOS - The All Progressives Congress (APC) says it has provided substantial evidence to warrant the cancellation of the November 16 governorship election in Anambra. The party said this in substantial” evidence for a statement yesterday, the Independent in Lagos, signed by its National Electoral National Publicity Commission (INEC) to Secretary, Alhaji Lai cancel the election. Mohammed. It will be recalled that According to the INEC Chairman, Mohammed, there is Prof Attahiru Jega, enough “weighty, reiterated the compelling and commission’s stance not
to cancel the election, arguing that there was no evidence to warrant
it. Instead, announced
Jega that a
supplementary election would hold on November 30 in parts of
the state where the exercise did not hold. Continues on page 2
Peace and Conflict Resolution Commission For Inauguration Today
GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State will on Monday 25
EDO STATE
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT Edo State Government has observed that despite several warnings in the past, some unscrupulous individuals and groups have continued to encroach on the land belonging to Edo State Broadcasting Service. The government can no longer condone this illegality. Consequently, it is hereby announced for the information of the general public and those who have encroached on Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) land at Aduwawa, Ivue, Auchi and other parts of the state in particular, that they are for the last time, given two weeks from the date of this announcement to vacate the encroached premises as failure to do so will attract severe penalties. Signed: LOUIS ODION, HON. COMMISSIONER FOR INFORMATION AND ORIENTATION, EDO STATE
November 2013 inaugurate the Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee to be chaired by Chief Eduwu Ekhator, the Obasogie of Benin Kingdom. According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary Peter Okhiria, the inauguration ceremony will be at the Banquet Hall, Government House at 1.00 p.m. Members of the committee and invited guests are expected to be seated by 12.30 p.m.
COMMEMORATION: Chief Communication Officer, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Mrs. Toyin Aderibigbe; Director-General, Prof. John Idoko; Deputy Director, Finance, Dr. Ken Lalu and Deputy Director, Programmes, Dr. Priscilla Ibekwe at a Church service to commemorate the 2013 World Aids Day celebration in Abuja yesterday.
Refineries: BPE Confirms Privatisation in 2014
ABUJA - The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) yesterday said that the bureau would privatise the four refineries in the country next year. Mr. Chigbo Anichebe,
the Bureau’s Head, Public Communications, told newsmen in Abuja that the refineries’
privatisation was part of the ongoing oil sector’s reforms. Earlier last week, the
Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, told Bloomberg TV Africa in
Code Of Conduct: NASS Commission Member, BWARI (FCT) - Dr interview with Tasks Public Officers an Paul Oweh, member, newsmen at the representing Delta South-South at National Assembly Service
Commission, has urged public office holders to adhere to their code of
conduct, so as to earn public trust. Oweh made the call in
weekend. He spoke at a Continues on page 2
London that the country would privatise its four government-owned refineries in the first quarter of next year. That this is the second time the Federal Government is disclosing plans to privatise its refineries. It will be recalled that Continues on page 2
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
News
Anambra guber polls Continued from page 1 He maintained that the challenges the commission had in the areas were not enough grounds to cancel the election. However, Mohammed said: ‘’Our party has provided incontrovertible and more than substantial evidence to show that what took place on November16 is a parody of election. “There is no evidence that can be more substantial than the fact that INEC, in conducting the election, failed to comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act”. “What other evidence can be more compelling than the INEC Chairman’s admission of compromise by a top official of the commission?” Mohammed queried. The publicity argued that Jega’s statement that the election fell short of what INEC expected and prepared
for, was also enough reason for cancellation. He said that Jega’s unforced admission that a senior official of the commission had been financially induced to compromise the election in Idemili North Local Government Area with more than 173,000 registered voters, was a big reason. He described the issue as “very serious”, because Idemili North was the stronghold of the APC candidate, Senator Chris Ngige. Mohammed noted that in the 2011 senatorial election, Ngige scored more than 80 per cent of all the votes cast in the area. Another reason he adduced for the cancellation of the election was the INEC’s decision to use students of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, in violation of its guidelines to use trained and ad hoc staff
Refineries
Continued from page 1 President Olusegun Obasanjo approved the sale of the refineries during his administration but the late President Umaru Yar’Adua in 2007 reversed the sale of the refineries for lack of transparency in the transaction. However, President Goodluck Jonathan in November 2012 recommended that the refineries should be sold due to inadequate finance and under-performance. Anichebe, nonetheless, told journalists that the privatisation plans were currently at the preliminary stage, where the blueprint of the policy would be decided. “We are working with the NNPC and Ministry of Petroleum Resources on the privatisation of the four refineries. “We are just in the preliminary discussion with them and very soon, we will make public the work plan for the privatisation processes, including the engagement of advisers to advise us on the transaction. “Once the work plan is finetuned, hopefully by the end of the year or early January next year, the work plan as well as the schedule will be unveiled to all stakeholders, including the media,’’ he said. Anichebe said that the privatisation would be handled in line with the usual strategy of the bureau, which was to sell a certain percentage of shares and reserve a certain percentage for the workers, host communities and Nigerians at large. He urged Nigerians not to be apprehensive about the refineries’ sale because only capable and visionary investors would be considered in the
privatisation process. “People should not be edgy about this transaction because we have done this over and over again. When we first started with the telecommunications sector, people were worried that we will give it to the wrong people. “They were worried about the security implications and all that. I believe that whether these companies end up with local, home-based or foreign investors, what is important is the efficiency of whoever is handling it. “The criteria should be that the buyers have the financial muscle and technical knowhow to run these companies. We don’t bother about where they come from, as long as they are coming with clean money to invest in our economy. “So, when we are doing our evaluation of investors for the transaction, that is what we will look at,’’ he said. The BPE spokesman also said that in 2014, the bureau would also begin the privatisation of the housing sector, Abuja Security and Commodity Exchange Plc., as well as the country’s transportation sector.
as presiding officers. “Also, the use of the staff of the university as Supervising Presiding Officers even though the running mate of the APGA candidate was until his nomination a professor in the same institution is another reason,” he said. Mohammed also said the fact that electoral materials meant for the known
strongholds of the APC candidate were sent to wrong wards or polling units was another reason why the exercise should be cancelled. He urged Jega to summon the courage “to ameliorate the situation by ordering a fresh election”, saying that failing to do so meant an abdication of his responsibility.
Continued from page 1 reception organised by two community basedorganisations — the Abuja Chapter of Isoko Development Union (IDU) and Emevor Progressives Union (EPU) — in his honour on in Bwari. He said that the reception was geared towards recognising the level of confidence people reposed in public officers from their home communities. Oweh pledged to live up to the people’s expectations, urging the public office holders to see public service as a means of gaining the people’s trust. “One thing about public office is that it is a position of trust; you go there and use it to help the people. “So, now that I am there, I have certain duties and when I perform my duties well, as stipulated, it will mean my own way of helping them. “It may not necessarily be through contract awards and making big profits, as mostly perceived, but there are other services which can be rendered to promote growth. “Public office holders must observe the rules, code of conduct, under which they came on board. “I am encouraged by what people from the two communities have done for me; I hope to make them proud by living up to their expectations,” he said. Oweh, who noted that unemployment remained the
major challenge facing the people of the communities he represented, however, said that unemployment was not peculiar to them alone, as it was a national and global concern. He assured the communities that President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration was doing all within its power to address the problem. “I key into what the President is doing as their representative and I believe that the problem will soon be addressed. Besides that, we must learn to do vocational jobs to be self-reliant. “People must learn to always engage in meaningful ventures, such as skills acquisition to be selfemployed, rather than wait for white-collar jobs; in that way, the economy will grow,” Oweh added. Mr. Hyacinth Aso, the President of the Abuja chapter IDU, said in his remarks that the reception was a tradition among the community’s members to show respect to their illustrious sons. “What we are doing here today is in recognition of our entity as a people; it is to encourage our sons and daughters to always do well whenever they occupy public offices”. He urged Oweh not to betray the confidence which the people reposed in him, adding that he should always protect the interests and image of the Isoko people.
Code of Conduct
Catholics mark Feast of Christ the King By OKOH INNOCENT UBIAJA - As Catholics faithful worldwide yesterday, marked the feast of Christ the king, St. Benedict Catholic Church at Ubiaja in Esan South East LGA of Edo state,
Delta Community
Continued from page 1
through the activities of oil companies. Ugborodo is the host community to Chevron Oil Exploration Company in Escravos. “Piling the seashore around the Ugborodo is a major concern to the community to prevent further loss of land to the sea. “Although we have started supporting the seashores with heaps of stones by the entrance of the community, but it is not an easy project.
We need government’s assistance,’’ he said. He described the impact of oil explorations on the community as devastating adding that “fishing is our major occupation; we do not have fish in our rivers again due to oil spill.’’ Ojogor urged the Federal Government, through the Niger Delta Development Commission, to urgently address the social and economic backwardness in the community.
was not left out as they came out in their thousands matching round various streets in the town and singing hymms and songs. The procession was led by the parish priest Rev. Father Francis Omonlumen and assisted by Rev. Father Mario Aigbefo, members of knights of St. John, legion of Mary, john Bosco alter boys and many other functional groups of the church. The feast of Christ the king is celebrated annually by Catholics worldwide and the essence of it is to exalt Christ above all powers and authority here on earth and in heaven, it is also an evangelization strategy of the church calling on all to adore and accept Christ as the Lord of their lives. The procession also witnessed veneration to Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.
Investigate Iyayi’s death, Right group tell FG . . . issue 7 days ultimatum BENIN CITY - Human Rights Activists in Edo State have issued seven days ultimatum to the Federal Government to set up a panel of inquiry to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing of the former President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Professor Festus Iyayi with the convoy of the Kogi State Governor, Mr. Idris Wada. The rights group made up of legal practitioners, students, labour unions, lecturers, journalists amongst others made the position known at a symposium and street protest organized by the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission and Citizens Wealth Platform to mark 2013 International Day to end impunity. The groups who conspicuously brandished the pictorial banners of the former ASUU President with inscriptions: “The highest level of impunity- Dr Festus Iyayi murdered by the killer convoy of Governor Idris Wada of Kogi State”, “Let’s speak out against impunity in Nigeria” staged the street protest right from Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre, through Air port road, round Oba Ovoranmen square also known as Kings Square, Sapele road to the NUJ press centre in Benin City. According to the Executive Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, Reverend David Ugolor, a society not driven by justice is unacceptable
hence the need for the federal government to set up a panel of inquiry into the killing of the former ASUU President. Ugolor said the rate of impunity in the country most especially by the police whom he said oppressed citizens who tend to express their opinions is becoming too unbearable. He recalled how the police have become an instrument used to deny Nigerians the rights to freedom of assembly and expression in Rivers State and beyond, adding that Festus Iyayi was killed with a vehicle in the Kogi State Governor ’s convoy suspected to be manned by men of the Nigeria Police Force. “Police has become a threat to peoples’ freedom to free expression”, said Ugolor. The Edo State Coordinator of National Human Rights Commission, Barrister Sani Momodu said the commission has put machinery in place to address the problem of impunity in the country, adding that the rights of people are being trampled upon with impunity. President of Conference of NonGovernmental Organizations, CONGOs, Comrade Jude Obasanmi said it’s high time the culture of impunity is brought to an end in Nigeria. He described the death of Iyayi as an act of impunity and therefore called on the federal government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the activist professor.
Don implores CBN not to phase out polymer notes LAGOS - A polymer scientist, Prof. Gabriel Shonaike, has advised the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) not to phase out polymer currency notes, but improve on the quality of materials used in printing them. Shonaike, who teaches at the Faculty of Engineering, Lagos State University, Epe Campus, observed that one of the main objectives for introducing polymer banknotes was to reduce the level of counterfeiting. In a press statement in Lagos on Sunday, the don said polymer bank notes were “Non-fibrous and nonporous; last longer, at least four times longer in circulation than paper. “They are harder to counterfeit; printing involves high technology that prevents duplicating the note; and they can be recycled”. Shonaike mentioned many countries that have shifted partially to polymer bank notes to include Israel, Malaysia and Indonesia, noting that Canada was about phasing out paper currency in favour of polymer notes.
“The problem we are facing today (with the Naira) is fading of the inks. The Naira notes may look ugly on fading, but the good thing is that they can be recycled and used for various applications. “It is certain that the security features in Naira notes are excellent— they are much more difficult to forge.” According to Shonaike, if adequately funded, Nigeria has the experts to research into and handle the production of its polymer currency notes locally. “I am appealing to the Governor of the Central Bank and his deputy not to discontinue the use of polymer banknotes due to the advantages to be gained on the long run. “They are cost-effective because they last longer and they contain some security features that are difficult to counterfeit. “My dream is to see all Nigeria currency denominations change into polymer banknotes. “Paper notes, after a short circulation, become dirty and create environmental problems.”
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
News Edo Govt Committed To People’s Welfare - Commissioner
By RICHARD EWEKA BENIN CITY - The Edo State Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Francis Evbuomwan has expressed government commitment to the well being of the Edo people and various ethnic groups in the state. He made this know while speaking at the Coalition Day/ Seminar 2013 organised by Coalition of Ethnic Nationalities, Edo State chapter with the theme, “Unity in Diversity.” Hon. Evbuomwan said the state governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole is a detribalised Nigerian, hence the administration has embraced all ethnic Nationalities in the state and created a peaceful atmosphere for their development. Delivering a lecture on “cohesion rather than ethnic Affiliation as a tool for meaningful National Development,” Dr. Alfred Edema of the Western Delta University urged participants to
see themselves as one for the sake of sustaining the nations development. Mr. Emmanuel Okaka, another guest speaker from Western Delta University who spoke on the topic, “Pay your tax, to have a say” advised participants to see payment of tax as an obligation that confers on them, the right to ask for good governance from their leaders. Earlier in a welcome address, the chairman of Coalition of Ethnic Nationalities, Edo State chapter, Dr. Dosu Malomo enjoined everyone to embrace unity, love one another and respect constituted authorities saying these would lead to development of the nation.
Edo State SSG, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (right), in a handshake with the immediate past Head of Service, Edo State, Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa Inneh during a handover ceremony in Government House recently. Photo: QUEENETH A. OROBEDO.
Climate Change: ABUJA - Africa faces huge financial challenges in adapting to climate change, according to the United Nations Environment programme (UNEP). That spells out the cost faced by the continent if government fails to close the ‘emissions
Africa Faces Huge Adaptation Cost
gap.’ This is contained in a statement issued by UNEP in Warsaw, Poland, where the 19th Conference of Parties of the United Nations Climate Change Convention. According to the statement,
Edo State SSG, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (right), signing documents alongside the immediate past Head of Service, Edo State, Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa Inneh during a handover ceremony in Government House recently. Photo: QUEENETH A. OROBEDO.
made available to newsmen online in Abuja, Africa could face a financial challenge, if governments failed to close ‘’emissions gap’’ to keep warming below two degrees Celsius. It stated that climate change adaptation costs for Africa could reach approximately 350 billion dollars annually by 2070 should the two-degree target be significantly exceeded. It explained that the cost would be around 150 billion dollars lower per year, if the target was to be met. The statement said that Africa’s adaptation gap, released on Tuesday and endorsed by the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) confirmed the report. ‘’The World Bank’s Turn Down the Heat Reports states that there is a 40 per cent chance that we will inhabit a ‘3.5-4° Celsius World’, if mitigation efforts are not stepped up from current levels. ‘’Africa is already facing adaptation costs in the range of
Young People Driving Force For Nigeria’s Greatness - Foundation ABUJA - The Executive Director Africa Region, MacArthur Foundation, Dr Kole Shettima, has said young people remained the driving force for the country’s quest for greatness. Shettima said this at a news conference to herald the forthcoming Annual Population Lecture slated for tomorrow in Abuja. He said that for Nigeria to be like Asian Tigers, she must invest in the youth adding that
they were the natural resources and force for positive change. “We have to think about how we utilise the energy, the passion, the vision, and the drive of these young people, so that we may be able to see them as solutions to our problems. “So that at the end of the day, Nigeria can be like any of the so-called Asian tigers if we invest in our young people. “Our youth are our only natural resource, and they are a force for positive change; let’s
shift our mental gear from thinking that young people are a disaster. “They are indeed our demographic dividends; they are our present, as well as our future.“ According to him, “too often we classify young people as a problem, doing drugs, trafficking, engaged in violence, prostitution and thuggery, among others. “We should begin to turn the conversation to young people as
the only natural resources for Nigeria’s development.“ He urged Nigerians to jettison the idea of seeing young people as a tool for violence and vices adding that investing in education of the youth would be beneficial to the country. “The natural resource of this country is what is in the head of our young people; this is naturally given to them but it means that we must ensure that they have high quality education, especially for girls.
seven to 15 billion dollars per year by 2020. ‘’These costs will rise rapidly after 2020, since higher levels of warming will result in higher impacts. ‘’Combining adaptation costs with ‘residual’ damages, the total costs can reach four per cent of Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2100, under a 3.5-4° Celsius scenario. ‘’If no adaptation measures are taken, damages are expected to cost seven per cent of African GDP by 2100 in a ‘3.5-4°Celsius World’,’’ the statement quoted the report as saying. It said the report cautioned that, even if the world did manage to get on track to keep warming below two degrees Celsius, Africa’s adaptation costs will still hover around 35 billion dollars per year. It further quoted UN UnderSecretary-General and UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner, as saying that ‘’missing the two degrees window would not only cost governments
billions of dollars, but would also risk the lives and livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people on the African continent and elsewhere. ‘’Even with a warming scenario of under two degrees Celsius by 2050, Africa’s undernourished would increase 25 per cent - 90 per cent. “Crop production will be reduced across much of the continent as optimal growing temperatures are exceeded. ‘’The capacity of African communities to cope with the impacts of climate change will be significantly challenged. ‘’I would like to welcome the decision by AMCEN to endorse the recommendations of the Africa Gap report, an important step towards strengthening political will and building resilient national policies.’’ Steiner further noted that: ‘’Additional adaptation funding and technical know-how are imperative if Africa is to move towards a climate-resilient green future path.
MASSOB To Train Members On Traffic Control ONITSHA (ANAMBRA) The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has promised to train 500 of its members for traffic control in Onitsha, Anambra during the Christmas season. Chief Charles Oputa, MASSOB’s Director of Transport, told newsmen in Onitsha that the training would take place in the first week of December. “MASSOB feels very concerned about the traffic congestion recorded every Christmas period in Onitsha and its environs and we do not want it to happen this year. “This is why we decided to
conduct training for our members who will man all the busy roads and strategic points,’’ Oputa said. He advised commercial drivers to always comply with traffic rules to avoid loss of lives and delay. Oputa said the movement would collaborate with traffic control agencies in Onitsha to achieve the goal. Onitsha usually experiences daily traffic jams during the season due to the influx of traders to the various markets in the town. Hundreds of commuters annually spend days on the Niger Bridge during the peak of the Christmas season due to the jams.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
News President Jonathan Pledges Financial Support To NIPSS JOS - President Goodluck Jonathan, weekend pledged to support the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) financially to enable it achieve its research mandate. Jonathan stated this during the graduation ceremony of Course 35 of NIPSS in Kuru, near Jos. The President, who was represented by the Secretary of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim said that the government would make funds available to the institution to enable it meet its financial obligations. “The Federal Government will surely come to the financial assistance of the institute so as to perform its statutory duties to the nation. “The Federal Government will make funds available to improve the welfare package of the entire staff of the institution. “The government will surely look inward and assist the institution with the funds to discharge its duties as a research institution but within
our limited resources.” He called on the staff of NIPSS to continue with the good work of producing technocrats for the nation. The president called on Nigerians to support the National conversation as it had the capacity of solving the nation’s challenges through dialogue. “All problems can be sorted out through dialogue and discussions all over the world and our case is not different from that of other people. “My commitment on the national conversation is unshakable and we shall continue to solicit people’s advice and opinions for a better discussions,’’ he said. Jonathan said that the security challenge and other challenges in the nation had been slowing down the transformation agenda. “We are making steady progress to improve the welfare of our people. “We are happy that Course 35 has in their documents,
forwarded to the presidency documents that showed we are recording a lot of success in the transformation agenda. “We shall also put our best to improve the welfare of all Nigerians citizens. “We shall not leave any stone unturned to fight corruption in the public and private sector in the country,” the President said. Earlier, the Director General of NIPSS, Prof. Tijjani Bade, called on the Federal Government to assist the institution with funds so as to perform their functions. “This institution is in dire need of funds to run its affairs and meet all its financial obligations. “We need funds to attract competent researchers to the institution, but our condition of service is challenging us.’’ The NIPSS Governing Board Chairman, Maj. Gen. Paul Omu, said that all the course participants had been
cleared by the presidency for their graduation. He explained that all NIPSS participants must be
cleared by the presidency before they would be allowed to pass out. Omu called on the graduating participants to use the experience they acquired in NIPSS to improve the
wellbeing of Nigerians through good policy formulations. Eleven women and 55 men passed out from course 35 and they were conferred with the status of Member of National Institute mni).
Representative of the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Chief Emiola Adesina (left), presenting to the Minister of State for FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, a merit award by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes in Ibadan weekend. With them is the Minister’s husband, Mr. Aliyu Pategi.
Police Quiz Chief Priest
Alleged Forgery:
Scene of an accident at Orile Iganmu bus stop in Lagos yesterday.
BENIN CITY – Police in Benin have arrested a Chief Priest (Ohenrhiomwon Nosarobo) in Ikpe Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, Mr. Michael Amadinayangbon Agbonlahor over alleged forgery of a document from the palace of the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty Oba Erediauwa. The document, said to be a letter from the Benin
Owan East LG To Partner NUT
AFUZE-EMAI – Owan East Local Government Chairman, Hon. (Barr) Jimoh Ijegbai has pledged to partner with the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the realization of its three-point agenda. Barrister Ijegbai gave the assurance when he received the chairman of the state NUJ, Comrade Desmond Agbama and members of the 2013 Press Week Committee in his office. He said he is impressed that the leadership of the Union has set an agenda towards improving the lot of journalists in Edo State, as well as the Union. The Council chairman told the journalists who were in the local government to
assess the projects so far executed by the council boss with a view to scoring him for the possible NUJ’s prestigious award during its Press Week, saying that gone are the days when people sit back in their offices and score public officers and politicians for underserved awards. He commended the committee for coming around to carry out an on-thespot assessment of projects executed by his administration and pleaded with them to endeavour to visit the over 40 projects so far executed by his administration to enable them appreciate that Owan East local government is working. Earlier, the chairman of
the state NUJ, Comrade Desmond Agbama commended the council boss for his victory at the April 20 local government polls and for his development efforts at ensuring the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Owan East. He solicited the support of the council boss in ensuring the fulfillment of his three point agenda aimed at transforming the NUJ Conference Hall; training of journalists and the establishment of a modern library at the Press Centre. Comrade Agbama intimated the council chairman on the essence of their visit, which he said was to properly assess council chairman’s service delivery to the people for possible qualification for the NUJ’s prestigious award
December 3 to 8, 2013. The local government boss later took the visitors round some of the projects executed by his administration. Noting that he would want to be remembered for restoring Owan East Local Government to its enviable height through prudent management of resources he disclosed that his administration would address agriculture next year by training the youths in modern agricultural techniques. The council boss was accompanied on the project tour by the Supervisor for Works, Mr. Desmond Imohi; Supervisor for Health, Mrs. Patience Ireotoi and the Special Assistant on Media,
Traditional Council with reference number, BTC. F. 37/Vol.11 dated January 1, 2011 for approval for the payment of stipend was allegedly signed by Chief Osaro Idah, Secretary, Benin Traditional Council. According to the letter “I am directed by the Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba of Benin, to convey approval of monthly stipend for you as 111, with effect from 1st January, 2011.” The document gave “annual breakdown of the monthly stipend as,” stipend – N14,400 per annum and ceremonial allowance N720 per annum totaling N15,120. Secretary to Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor disclaimed the letter when The NIGERIAN OBSERVER visited him to confirm the authenticity of the letter. In another letter, with reference number BTC.287/ VOL.V/216 dated October 14,2013 and addressed to D.L. Aimofumeh Esq of Aimofumeh Law house, Henry O. Izevbigie who signed for secretary to Benin Traditional Council stated; Re: Forgery of Benin
Traditional Council letter by Michael Amadinayangbon Agbonlahor. In the letter, he stated “In respect of the above subject matter and to say that the letter did not emanate from this council” (BTC). Frank Irabor however confirmed the authenticity of the letter as a response to the letter allegedly signed byOsaro Idah. Attempts to obtain comment from Mr. Amadinayangbon Agbonlahor on the letters proved abortive. The Police Area Commander, Benin ACP Pukuma had a forth night ago disclosed to The Nigerian OBSERVER that Police have commenced investigation. A dependable source in his office revealed that the Chief Priest was arrested and released on bail by operatives at the Benin Area Command. It was further learnt that Mr. Amadinayangbon Agbonlahor was re-arrested last week by men of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Police headquarters, Benin City following a petition said to have been written to the Commissioner of Police, Edo
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
South/South Provide Social, Economic Development, FG Urged By JOEL CHUKWUAGHON AGBOR (DELTA) - A prominent Chief in Ekuku Agbor Ika South local government area of Delta state, has appealed to the three tiers of government to provide socio amenities and infrastructural development in the area. Chief Thomas Onyibe, the Ihenkayem of Ekuku-Agbor Community in South Local Government Area of Delta State stated that the state government the has since abandoned that area in terms of infrastructural development. He advised Delta State governor Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan to carefully address his three points Agenda, by distributing the democracy dividend to the area it has not touched in the
state. Chief Ihenkayem, said that his community has no link roads to the neibhouring communities around his community. He said traders cannot come to his community on market day to buy farm produce because of bad roads. He appealed to the three ties of the government to give empowerment to the youths, particularly to those who have graduated from schools and are without jobs. He also wants government to build a modern market in EkukuAgbor Community, since Ekuku-Agbor is a basket of food. Chief Ihenkayan also appealed to federal government and ASUU to address the issue of strike to enable their children go back to school , and become a better future leaders.
L-R: Group Managing Director, Mainstreet Bank, Ms Faith Tuedor-Matthews; representative of CBN Governor Dr. Kingsley Moghalu; Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Ibukun Odusote at a breakfast meeting of the Minister of Agriculture with CBN Governor and some selected bank MDs and CEOs in Abuja recently.
Man Pleads Guilty Of Stealing N2.4m Rents ASABA-A 34-year-old man, Anthony Ogbugwo, in Asaba has pleaded guilty of stealing N2.4 million rents paid by tenants of No 3, Achalla-Ibusa Road, Asaba. Ogbugwo was arraigned at a Magistrates’ Court on a one-count charge of stealing the amount, belonging to Mrs. Josephine Nwuli, owner of the building. The prosecuting police officer, Mr. David Okeh, told the court that the accused committed the offence
sometime between 2011 and 2013. Okeh told the court that the offence was punishable under the Criminal Code of Delta State, 2006. Reports say that the accused was returned to prison custody because there was no plea for bail. The magistrate, Mrs Queen Momoh, adjourned the case to January 13, 2014, to enable the prosecution to have enough time for further action.
Theft: 3 Women,
Man Arraigned
ASABA - Three suspects, Chidima Udeh , 21; Joy Ebodili, 21 and Funanya Onwuzuluaba, 24, have been arraigned before an Asaba Magistrate’s Court for stealing N312, 820. The three suspects are standing trial for conspiring and stealing the amount belonging to Mrs Nkem Chukwu. The prosecutor, Mr David Okeh, told the court that the accused committed the offence at Alpha Bykeeze filling station along Anwai Road, Asaba. Okeh told the court that they committed the offence between April 2012 and October 2013. He said that the offence was punishable under sections 390 and 516 of the Criminal Code Cap21 Vol. 1 of the Laws of Delta State of Nigeria, 2006. The accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges. The magistrate, Mrs Queen Momoh, granted each of them
bail in the sum of N300, 000 and a surety in like sum. Momoh ordered that the sureties must be civil servants on salary GL 08 and above. She also ordered that they must be resident in Asaba and should provide two passport photographs each to the court. The case was adjourned to December 18, 2013 for hearing.
Giving a helping hand by removing a car from flood.
C/River’s GDP Drops To N1.28 Trillion
CALABAR-The National Planning Commission (NPC) has said that the Cross River Gross Domestic Product (GDP) dropped to N1.28 trillion in 2011 from N1.32 trillion achieved in 2010.
Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River
The supervising Minister for NPC, Mr Bashir Yuguda, made the disclosure in Calabar at the presentation. Yuguda attributed the drop in the state’s GDP by N40 billion to the drop in the state’s oil revenue during the period. The national statistics also showed that the state’s industrial production declined by 66 per cent in the period under review against an earlier fall of 70 per cent recorded in 2009. “Agriculture grew from 20 per cent to 23 per cent within the same period and other services sector grew from 10 per cent in 2009 to 11 per cent in 2011,” he said. Yuguda said that the agriculture sector was
growing faster, especially in the area of crops production, adding that there was need for the diversification of the economy. He said that Cross River was among the seven pilot states from the six geopolitical zones used to understudy the national economy. The other states are Rivers, Anambra, Gombe, Lagos, Niger and Kano. Yuguda said that the report specifically showed the state of the economy in the seven states using agriculture, industry and the services sector. Gov. Liyel Imoke lauded the NPC and the National Bureau of Statistics for the
exercise, adding that it would guide the state properly in policy planning and implementation. “When we know what our GDP is, it will enable us to deliver the needed democracy dividends to our people. “The presentation has given us the size of our economy for proper planning,” he said. Imoke said that the provision of infrastructure should be driven by demand as the only way of eradicating poverty in the state. He called for the amendment of the extractive industry law and its removal from the exclusive list. Prof. Ndem Ayara, Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic matters, said that the data provided by NPC would help the state to reposition its economy.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
South-West Don Seeks More Employment Opportunities For Women IBADAN - A don has called for the creation of more employment opportunities for women in order to improve the health status of mothers and their children. Dr Adetola Adeoti, lecturer, Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Ibadan, made the call at the National Policy Seminar on Health, Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction in Ibadan. In her paper: “Child Health and Maternal Health Status and Demand for Health Care Services in Nigeria’’, she said “educated and employed mothers will not only be healthy but also have healthy children.’’ She said Nigeria experienced significant increase in economic growth in the last decade yet the health indicators were very poor particularly in the rural areas where poverty remained high. She also recommended increased immunisation coverage of rural areas of
the country. Adeoti added that efforts should be made to immunise children in schools and worship centres in addition to clinics and hospitals with the consent of their parents. Dr Musibau Babatunde of Department of Economics of the University of Ibadan, said policies promoting growth would have the desirable effects of reducing poverty. In his paper: “An Empirical Analysis of the G r o w t h - H e a l t h Relationship in Nigeria’’, he recommended that more doctors should be trained to improve life expectancy in the country.
A cross section of the children and family members of the late Prof. Omo Omoruyi at the thanskgiving service held at Central Baptist Church, Benin City at the weekend. Photo: OSADEBAMWEN SUNDAY.
Group To Develop Solar Energy Plant In Ogun
IJEBU-ODE (OGUN)The Friends of Nigeria Business Forum, Hungary, said that it would develop a five-megawatt renewable solar energy plant in IjebuOde, Ogun. Leader of the six-man Hungarian delegation, Mr Viragh Ference, made the commitment during a
courtesy visit to the Ogirimadagbo of Ilodo, Oba Isiaka Ajede, in Ijebu-Ode. Ference later told newsmen at the monarch’s palace that the Nigeria project would provide at least 300 jobs for starters, when completed. He said similar projects
22 Nigerians Died During Hajj
IBADAN - Twenty two Nigerians died during this year’s holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Alhaji Uba Mana, the head of Information, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), disclosed this in a telephone interview with our correspondent. Mana, who did not give the state by state break down of the figure, said that majority of the victims, died of natural causes, and had been buried in Saudi Arabia in accordance with Islamic rites. He said the death toll was lower than that of the previous years, due to adequate medical arrangement provided by the commission. Mana also attributed the low casualty rate to the awareness created by the Commission on personal hygiene and the performance of a stress-free hajj. Reports say that 44 pilgrims died in 2011 and 36 pilgrims in 2012 out of the over 95,000 pilgrims who performed the hajj in each of the years. Speaking on the transportation of pilgrims back home, Mana said the
- Commission
commission was able to complete the exercise four days ahead of the November 19 deadline given to it by the Saudi Arabia authorities. Mana commended the conduct of pilgrims throughout the exercise, saying that there was no reported case of misbehaviour on the part of any Nigerian, capable of
tarnishing the good image of the country. It would be recalled that the remaining pilgrims and officials came back with the last flight on Friday November 15, concluding the return journey, which began on October 19. The inaugural flight to Saudi Arabia, which took off from Maiduguri on Saturday, September 14, was concluded on October 9.
initiated by the group had already been completed in South-Africa and SaudiArabia. “We are working on renewable energy which will supply electricity from the sun because it is the safest, cleanest and noiseless source of energy abundant to Africa. “The project will be selfsustained as locals will be trained to manufacture indigenous solar panels made from locally
outsourced materials. “Youth unemployment is a major source of concern, so we also aim to empower about 300 workers for a start, through the project,” he said. Ference said the project would improve from five to 15 megawatts power generation in the long-term. He added that the group also proposed to set up a solar energy training school to be located in Ilodo community. Ajede, who was given the Friends of Nigeria Business Forum Leadership Award
2013 by the group, commended the investors for their gesture, urging other organisations to emulate it. According to the monarch, the initiative for the project is conceived as part of a presentation he made at a meeting with the group earlier in the year in Budapest, Hungary. ‘Let’s not forget that energy provision and job creation is what we are bringing to this nation and it takes one person to change the whole world,” Ajede said.
ending unemployment in the country. Babalola, who made the call during an interview with newsmen in Osogbo, described the sub-sector as viable and the largest employer of labour. The don said that free market economies gave room for individual contribution to national economic growth. According to him, the basic strategy of economic growth and development in any developing country is small scale enterprises where individuals contribute according to their economic strength. “Capitalist system of government anywhere in the world promotes individualism; it tends to bring out creativity in every member of the political enclave with sizeable Gross Domestic Products. “The system curbs joblessness in no small way if priority is given to small businesses which serve as bedrock of the macroeconomy in the developing
nations. “This has made scholars in different parts of the world to canvass for small-scale enterprises in emerging economies, especially in the third world countries where Gross Domestic Products are not enviable. ‘’The development of small scales enterprises as they have argued will boost national economy and contribute immensely to the development of the real sector of the economy. “I am imploring policy makers to come up with policies that will favour small enterprises genuinely and improve the standard of living of the commoners. “Of course, economic conditions of the individuals in a particular political environment determine their consciousness, and this can be achieved by developing the smallest economic units,’’ he stressed.
Small Scale Enterprises Answer To Underdevelopment - Expert
OSOGBO- A renowned economist and social critic, Dr Akin Babalola, has made a case for the development of small scale enterprises as a way of
L-R: The Secretary, Edo State Rapid Response Agency, Mrs. Maureen Eradayale (left), Evangelist Mrs. Rosemary Elawure, APC Leader in Ovia South West and Hon. (Mrs.) Rosemary Osunbor, Supervisor for Health, Oredo Local Government Area during the entertainment of guests in honour of late Prof. Omo Omoruyi in Benin City. Photo: OSADEBAMWEN SUNDAY.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
News
Hon. Abdulrazak Momoh, member representing Etsako West Constituency I at Edo State House of Assembly (sitting) in a handshake with Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Foly Ogedengbe at the House recently. Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.
Traders Thronge Abuja Carnival ABUJALocal and international traders thronged the Eagle Square, official venue of the 2013 Abuja Carnival. Reports say that food vendors, artists, dealers in locally-produced adire materials (kampala), shoe sellers and dealers in bed spreads were not left out. Some of the traders who spoke with newsmen, however, complained of low patronage although with some measure of optimism that the situation would improve. Mr James Collins, a trader in kitchen-stuff, said that the patronage was low because the carnival started late. “The carnival is just starting, but I believe that with time
DPR Seals 30 Filling Stations
SOKOTO - The Department of Petroleum Resources ( DPR) sealed 30 filling stations in Sokoto and Kebbi States between January and November because of various offences. The DPR’s Zonal Operations Controller in charge of Sokoto and Kebbi States, Alhaji Umar Moriki, announced this on Saturday in Sokoto at the 2013 annual petroleum products marketers’ meeting. He listed the offences to include under-delivery, selling above government-approved pump price and dilapidation of structures. Moriki added that the affected filling stations cut across independent and major marketers. The controller further announced that the department had uncovered 30 illegal filling stations in the two states. “Some of them have been completed while others are still ongoing. “Twenty of them are in Kebbi State while the remaining 10 are located in Sokoto State,” he said. He said, however, that: “The department is taking serious steps towards addressing this
ugly trend and will reprimand any defaulting marketer.” Moriki warned the owners of petroleum stations in the two states against condoning cheating by pump attendants. “Reports reaching us indicate that pump attendants are in the habit of surcharging the public. “ This trend has become rampant now. Owners of filling stations are hereby warned to call their employees to order. “ Otherwise, we will assume that the owners are actively involved in this malpractice,” he said. Moriki reminded the marketers that the prices of PMS (petrol) and DPK (kerosene) were regulated and that the Federal Government had fixed their prices at N97 and N50 respectively. He warned the marketers to desist from selling the products above the government stipulated prices. “Any station caught selling above the approved pump prices will be sanctioned appropriately,” he added. Moriki commended the Federal Government for improving the distribution of petroleum products.
Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Francis Evbuomwan (arrowed) with members of Coalition of Ethnic Nationalities, Edo State Chapter.
NNPP, ADC Back Supplementary Election In Anambra LAGOS- The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) have supported the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a supplementary gubernatorial election in Anambra. Chief Okey Nwosu, the National Chairman of the ADC, and Dr Boniface Aniebonam, the NNPP’s National Chairman, made their stance known in separate telephone interviews with the newsmen on Saturday
Minister Tasks Oyo Govt On soon as necessary structures IBADAN- Chief Olajumoke Investment were provided.
Akinjide, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), wants the Oyo state government to be more investorfriendly in order to attract investors to the state. Akinjide spoke with newsmen in Ibadan, at the 2013 Ibadan Annual Festival during which she was conferred with an award of excellence by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
According to her, Ibadan has everything it takes to be an industrial state in its own right, given the fact that the Federal Government had created an enabling environment there. She said that the state government must play its part to ensure that investors got access to land as well as security to encourage investment. Akinjide urged investors to be ready to invest in the town as
people will come out in their numbers to patronise us,” Collins told newsmen. Malam Musa Muhammed, a Kano-based trader, who deals in brocade materials (sheda), was optimistic that the level of patronage would be far better than that of last year’s. According to him, the carnival is an excellent mix and display of the country’s different cultures and, therefore, offers a splendid platform to make more money. Newsmen gathered that the traders paid N5,000 daily for each pavilion that they occupied. There was a mild drama as some of the traders battled to secure pavilions placed in conspicuous and vantage positions to display their wares, moves which the organisers rebuffed. This led to a shouting match between the traders and the organisers, who insisted that the traders must accept what they were offered initially. Earlier, the annual carnival procession with each contingent displaying a cultural insignia, had begun at the old parade ground amid heavy security and ended at the Eagle Square. Vehicles from Area1, Area 10 and the Central Area were diverted to other routes to ensure the safety and easy movement of the states’ contingents.
“Just like the great cities of the world where the governments created structures and enabling environment for their citizens,’’ she said. Akinjide explained that the Federal Government was already rehabilitating the LagosIbadan Expressway, and that it was also set to provide a standard gauge for the nation’s rail system for it to function properly.
in Lagos. It will be recalled that the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, had in a broadcast on November 22, 2013, said that the commission would conduct a supplementary election on November 30, in the local governments where there were lapses. He noted that in spite of the lapses the Anambra election, which took place on Nov. 16, it was one of the best which it had ever conducted. Nwosu described the controversies surrounding the election as “deliberate propaganda to undermine the commission’’. “I am from Anambra and I monitored the election. It is one of the best I have seen in Nigeria. “It was smooth, calm and peaceful despite a few challenges masterminded by some politicians.’’ He added: ‘‘The Anambra governorship election was
reasonably free and fair, and the result, though inconclusive, is credible. “My candidate may have lost, but whoever wins will be congratulated by the ADC.’’ Nwosu urged the other political parties to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and work with whoever emerged winner to uplift Anambra. Aniebonam said: “The planned supplementary election is okay and results that have been announced must be sustained.’’ According to him, INEC needs support to work effectively. “INEC puts the structures on ground but if some officials decide to be corrupt, one cannot blame Jega because human beings are unpredictable,’’ Aniebonam said. He said that there was no justification to call for Jega’s resignation, adding that rather the stakeholders must support the commission to perform optimally.
“We as a people must learn to respect the rules of engagement. If we desire a free and fair election, then we must ensure that we play fair.’’ Aniebonam alleged that some of the law enforcement agents who participated in the election “witnessed the sharing of money to voters at polling units and made no arrest’’. The chairman urged INEC to evolve a more efficient method to allocate grants to political parties to ensure fair play and reduce the opportunity for money bags to hijack the political space. The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), a domestic observer, said that INEC should be blamed for “failing to expose saboteurs’’ of the Anambra election. Its Chairman, Zikirulahi Ibrahim, told newsmen that although a supplementary election was necessary, the group’s 600 observers deployed for the Anambra election presented a fair report.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Across The Nation
Expert Advises Against Constipation
ABUJA - Miss Yemisi Olowookere, a Dietician with the Garki Hospital Abuja, has said that people should avoid constipation to enable them enjoy good health. Olowookere told newsmen that the foods that would prevent constipation include fresh fruits, vegetables and grains. According to her, “constipation is difficulty in defecation; it is accompanied with the discharge of more of hard faeces. ‘Eat fruits with all of its pulp instead of drinking fruit juice,’’ she said. She said that if the body was not properly hydrated, the large intestine that extracts water from the faeces dries them and makes them difficult to push out. “Drink at least 13 glasses of liquid each day,’’ she said. Olowookere said that plant based foods were the only ones that contained the fibre necessary to move the faeces freely through the intestine. She explained that laxatives such as natural
vegetable, fibre and pharmaceutical preparations, enemas, glycerin, suppositories and other remedies could relieve an acute case but not chronic constipation. “Do not ignore the physiological need to defecate,’’ she said. She said that one could have pain while passing stools or might be unable to have a bowel movement after straining or pushing for more than 10 minutes. Olowookere said that constipation was often caused
by low-fibre diet, lack of physical activity and not drinking enough water. She said that stress and traveling could also contribute to constipation or other changes in bowel habits. “Other causes of constipation may include colon cancer, diseases of the bowel, such as irritable bowel system,’’ she said. She, however, advised that learning good toilet habits from childhood would prevent constipation in grownups.
Rivers Civil Servants on a health walk to mark the 100 years celebration of Port Harcourt City in Port Harcourt recently.
Activists Want INEC To Review Election Logistics ABUJA - Some advocates for credible polls in Nigeria have urged INEC to review the logistics it adopted in Anambra governorship election to forestall irregularities in future polls. The Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Malam Auwal Musa, told newsmen in
Abuja that poorly organised polls affected the credibility of INEC. He said that the INEC needed to improve on the conduct of future elections to enhance its credibility. “We expect that INEC will have to improve on all its lapses. It cannot continue to explain its failures all the time.
“It needs to ensure that it puts all the necessary logistics in place to guard against widely condemnation during future elections. “It is becoming a trend for the election umpire to always give excuses for poor conduct of elections,’’ he said. He said that it was clear that INEC’s personnel were still
lacking adequate knowledge on election management. On the call by some civil society groups for INEC to cancel the Anambra governorship election, the CISLAC boss urged the election body to “listen to the voices of the people“. He said: “It is clear that a lot of people have been disenfranchised and a large number of people are denied their rights to determine who govern them. “When people feel they have been denied their voting rights, it is only fair to cancel the process that caused such violation and organise a more credible exercise,’’ he said. Also, Mr Tosin Adeyanju, the Executive Director of Conscience Nigeria, told newsmen that advocates for credible elections in Nigeria were unimpressed with INEC’s logistics for the Anambra election. “We were part of a coalition of civil society groups that monitored the election and I can say that we are dismayed at the numbers of people that could not vote.
“Many voters’ names were missing from the register and many of INEC’s officials compromised the exercise by their conducts. “We are disappointed with the organisation of the election,’’ he said. Adeyanju added that it would be proper for INEC to review its stand on the Anambra governorship election result. He said that the flaws in the conduct of last Saturday’s election in the country were not good for the image that Nigeria was trying fervently to improve in the global arena. “This is just one isolated election. “We should not be made to believe that INEC cannot all at once organise a state election in which legislators and council chairmen/councilorship positions are being contested for too,“ he said. The Secretary General of Conscience Nigeria, Mr. Opeyemi Duke, said “INEC has increased the apprehension of Nigerians over its ability to conduct credible national elections in 2015.’’
108 Babies Born In Camp – SEMA Chairman, Dredging and Sand Dealer’s Association of Nigeria, Mr. Edmund Chilaka (4th right) with participants at the Port Harcourt Dredging Executives roundtable in Port Harcourt recently.
NUPENG Kicks Against Sale Of Refineries LAGOS - The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has advised the Federal Government against the planned sale of the nation’s refineries. The Lagos Zonal Chairman of NUPENG, Mr. Tokunbo Korodo gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Lagos. “The government should not sell the refineries, rather they should bring in those
who first built the refineries for repairs and returned them to their original status,” he said. He said that government should always ensure that the turnaround maintenance of the refineries was done by those with the technical know how. He urged the government to open-up the market and allow private sector participation, adding that the country would then target the
exportation of petroleum products. Korodo advised the National Assembly to enact laws that would be favourable to the Nigerian workers. He said that most Labour Laws were not in tandem with the conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO). “Government should listen to the cries of Nigerians, they are not
comfortable with the ways the labour laws are be implemented. “The National Assembly should be more pro active in their responsibilities and rise up to the occasion if truly they are representative of the people. “The people are crying, especially the workforce, we need their intervention from the inhuman treatment and anti-labour practices in the workplace,’’ he said.
QUA’AN PAN (PLATEAU) - The Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) said 108 babies had been born at the Internally Displaced Persons ((IDPs) camp at Namu in Qua’an Pan Local Government of Plateau State. Mrs. Juni Dabin, Search and Rescue Officer of (SEMA), made the disclosure when the Commissioners for Environment and Water Resources, Mrs. Serah Yusuf and Mr. Idi Waziri, visited the camp. Dabin said the camp had 7,853 IDPs. She said since the camp was opened in October, 107 birth were recorded with one being twins. She said the twins were
named Hassan and Hassana by their parents, adding that the twins and other babies were doing fine. Dabin said the State Government and the Qua’an Pan Local Government Council were doing all they could to ensure that the kids and their mothers received adequate healthcare. Dabin said that SEMA had distributed relief materials worth over N3 million to the IDPs. She stressed that the agency was doing all it could to ensure that the IDPs lived in a conducive and clean environment. Qua’an Pan local government distributed bath tubs, toiletries and cosmetics to the women who delivered in the camp.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Abuja FG Appoints 4 Permanent Secretaries
ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the appointment of four permanent secretaries in the Federal Civil Service. This is contained in a statement signed by Dr Tope Ajakaiye, Director (Communications) in the office of Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in Abuja on Tuesday. According to the statement, the new appointees are: Abbas Mohammed (Kaduna); Adelakun Saheed Kayode (Lagos); Bukar Mohammed B. (Yobe) and Magaji Abubakar G. (Zamfara).
The statement said Alhaji Bukar Aji, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, who announced the approval, said that it was to fill the existing vacant positions. “The new appointments have been made to fill the slot for Yobe State which became vacant following his (Aji’s) appointment as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. “It is also the retirement from service of permanent secretaries representing Lagos, Zamfara and Kaduna States that have created vacancies for their slots.’’
ABUJA - Mrs Cecilia Toledo, the founder of Abuja Metropolitan Music Society (AMEMUSO), has said plans had been concluded to hold the 2013 edition of the musical show called “Operabuja’’. Toledo who spoke at a press briefing in Abuja said the title of the concert which was scheduled to hold on Sunday, Nov. 24 is “Classic and Comedy’’. “The event, which will feature a mixture of classic and comedy music, will be interactive,’’ she said. It would be recalled that Operabuja, now in its third edition, features a lot of traditional African music, even as it started as a classical opera. Toledo said the AMEMUSO choir would perform at the concert under the supervision of its conductor, Mr Samuel Ezugwu. “Ezugwu will perform alongside the great Peruvian tenor singer based in Germany, Mr Rafael Cavero,’’ she said. The AMEMUSO founder also
said the event would feature the prominent Swedish soprano and Director of the Opera Comedy Theatre, Mrs Charlotta Huldt.
Association To Hold Musical Show L-R: Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, Prof. Joy Ezeilo, Solicitor-General of the Federation, Mr. Abdullahi Yola and Executive Secretary, National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and other Related Matters (NAPTIP), Beatrice Jeddy-Agba at African Regional Consultation on the Right to an Effective Remedy for Trafficked Persons in Abuja recently.
Bwari Area Council Promises To Provide Refuse Bins FCT - The Bwari Area Council has promised to provide waste bins at strategic locations, to check illegal refuse dumping in the area. Mr Haruna Ahmed, the Director of the Environment Department of the council, made the promise in an interview with newsmen in Bwari, FCT on Tuesday. According to him, illegal refuse dumping on roadsides,
nature strips and highways, bush land, drains and parks, was responsible for the poor sanitary condition of environment. He identified lack of cooperation on the part of the residents as the major challenge hindering efforts aimed at tackling refuse dumping. Ahmed said: “Although we established collection points
for the residents to dump their wastes, we still find that they patronise the local waste collectors bowlers, who mostly indulge in illegal dumping. “The Bwari Area Council Authority in August this year employed the services of waste management contractors. “When their services are fully implemented, issues
about illegal dumping will drastically reduce, because the contractors will move from house to house and appropriately collect refuse for disposal at designated sites. “For now, we will provide waste bins at strategic places in all communities of the area council to put an end to issue of illegal dumping. “When that is done, it will afford the residents the
ABUJA - The Presidential Advisory Committee on National Dialogue says it has commenced preparation of its
report for submission to President Goodluck Jonathan, based on interactive sessions and memoranda received
from Nigerians. This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Femi Okunrounmu. According to the statement, the committee will hold a oneday retreat on November 20 in Abuja to analyse the memoranda submitted by Nigerians during its interactive sessions in 13 states. The statement said eminent leaders, scholars and experts had been invited to the retreat. It said the retreat would work toward ensuring that “the best advice is made available to Jonathan as he studies the report of the committee which is being prepared for submission shortly.’’ Okunrounmu expressed gratitude to Nigerians for supporting the committee by attending the interactive sessions and submitting memoranda in line with its
terms of reference. He also praised the media for accurate reportage of the committee’s work.
opportunity to package their refuse into the wastes bins, instead of littering them within the surrounding. According to him, illegal refuse dumping contributed to land degradation which posed,health challenges in the community. “Illegal refuse dumping deters people from visiting areas where there are frequent wastes; dumped items create physical and chemical hazards for anyone visiting the site. “Such dump sites attract rodents, insects and other vermin that pose health risks, for instance, mosquitoes, which can multiply 100 times faster in warm stagnant water standing in scrap tyre casings.”
ABUJA - Justice Gladys Olotu of the Federal High Court, Abuja has sentenced Victor Mgbeobuna to seven years’ imprisonment for trafficking I.6 kilo grammes of heroine. Delivering judgment, Olotu held that the prosecution was able to convince the court by proving the charge brought against the convict. “It is in the record before me that Victor Mgbeobuna contravened the NDLEA Act, having confessed to bringing into the country 1.6 kg heroine en route from Pakistan. “The court does take judicial notice of the confessional statement of the offender and all other exhibits that tend to support the allegation. “In view of the admission of the act by the accused person, the court finds him guilty as charged and convicted of the
offence. “In the circumstance, the accused person is sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment. “It is therefore ordered that the seized substance be returned to the NDLEA custody for destruction,’’ she said. In a related development, Olotu sentenced Brazil-based Okechukwu Orieukwu to two years’ imprisonment for unlawful traffic in 250 kilo grammes of cocaine. According to the judge, Orieukwu got a lower sentence because the court believed a syndicate coerced him into engaging in the act. “I have read the confessional statement of the accused person as well as studied closely his oral testimony and seem to be convinced that Orieukwu was actually coerced and threatened by a group to commit the act.
Committee On National Dialogue Preparing Report - Chairman
36.9Kilogrammes of Cannabis Sativa seized by Nigeria Customs Service at Seme Border.
Court Sentences Pakistan, Brazil-Based Drug Pushers
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Business + Economy
Cancer Registries: IBM Partners UICC LAGOS - International Business Machines (IBM) has announced that it was working with the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to create the world’s largest and comprehensive clinical dataset on cancer patients. IBM said this in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos that the synergy would be done by building cancer registries in developing nations. “The effort will begin in Sub-Saharan Africa, where less than one per cent of the region’s population is covered by a cancer registry. “Due to heavy population in the region, this new effort would improve cancer registration and in time treatment for patients in Africa. “It would also enrich knowledge about cancer for patients all over the world,” it said. IBM said cancer registries would provide governments with incidence and mortality data so that effective policies for cancer control could be developed, implemented and
evaluated. “They also provide clinicians with information about patient outcomes to help identify tailored treatment options. “Reliable and comprehensive data would lead to the most effective interventions for saving lives. “The donation of big data and analytics technology was announced by Gary Cohen, Chairman, IBM Africa, at the World Cancer Leaders’ Summit in Cape Town. “IBM’s objective is to help find ways to level the field of access through innovation and knowledge. ‘So that we can bridge the divide between the discovery of cancer and the delivery of treatment with positive outcomes - regardless of geography,” he said. Cohen said the initiative would begin in two to three countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, continued throughout the region and extended to Southeast Asia and Latin America. “The IBM collaboration supports UICC’s work with the Global Initiative for Cancer Registries in low- and
middle-income countries.. “According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), about 70 per cent of all cancer deaths occur in developing nations,” he said. Cohen said that experts
predicted that the SubSaharan region alone would see more than an 85 per cent increase in its cancer burden by 2030. Cary Adams, CEO of
UICC, said he could imagine a world in which the very latest scientifically proven means of detecting and treating cancer was available in all countries. “This information will
Chairman, Omatha Holdings Limited, Nnewi, Chief Mathias Onwugbenu (2nd left), with the Chairman, National Automotive Council, Alhaji Abdulkadir Saleh (right) and other members of the council during their visit to Nnewi recently.
Customs Rakes In N6.7 Billion
Farm produce displayed at the 2013 National Agricultural show in Tudun Wada Nasarawa State recently.
BADAGRY (LAGOS STATE) - Mr. Saleh Othman, Area Controller, Seme Border Command of the Customs Service, said the command generated N6.68 billion between January and October. Othman disclosed this in a news statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ernest Olottah, which was made available to newsmen in Badagry. He said that the command made 914 seizures with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N4.39 million during the period. The Controller said that 26 suspects were arrested during the period and were at various stages of prosecution. He said that goods seized
included vehicles, textiles, rice, vegetable oil, second hand clothes, shoes, bags and artifacts. “The artifacts were detected and seized by our officers during an intensive search operation based on intelligence. “They are internationally valued at about 16,870 dollars, “ he said. Othman said that the command would intensify efforts during the yuletide to stem smuggling, adding that the illegal business would be on the increase during the period. The commander said that
ICT Education: Anambra Partners LAGOS - The Anambra State Government has signed an agreement with Microsoft for the provision of quality Information, Communication and Telecommunication (ICT) education in schools in the state. The agreement was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos. According to the agreement, Microsoft and its partners will train teachers from state’s 450 schools in ICT. The agreement include the supply of tools for the training of students on Microsoft
technologies aimed at making students self-reliant and the creation of skilled ICT community in Anambra. Marc Israel, Microsoft Office Group Director for Central, East and West Africa, the Indian Oceans, commended the state government for its commitment to the partnership. “As a technology enabler, we believe ICT education contributes significantly to economic empowerment, growth and development, offering the appropriate skills to use technology in innovative ways,” he said.
provide unique and compelling insights on cancer, the likes of which we have not seen before,” he said. Adams said, according to WHO, more than 12 million people worldwide would be diagnosed with cancer this year and approximately eight million will die. Adams said the number was drawn from a database that was increasingly weak as the cancer burden moved as predicted from developed to developing countries. “Much of the world is tracking a growing burden of cancer with very incomplete information. “Improving the collection of data is critical to our ability to address cancer around the world,” he said. Dr Isaac Adewole, a gynaecologist in Nigeria and President of the African Organisation for the Research and Training in Cancer, said improved cancer registry data would reveal the population based trends. This, he said, were so important in shaping and adapting a cancer strategy. “This will inform my daily practice in ways that my hospital data alone cannot,” he said.
Microsoft
Israel said ICT Academy would provide children with necessary ICT skill to keep the state on global map of ICT technology and assist in long and shor-term planning. “The Microsoft ICT Academy programme will offer schools world-class ICT curriculum by allowing students to utilise the latest Microsoft technologies, while learning about information technology and earning Microsoft technology certifications,” he said.
Israel said the programme also aimed to link academic learning to job skills, thus allowing students to graduate with the ICT skills that they would need to advance in their future careers. “With the Microsoft ICT Academies in Anambra State, participating students become Microsoft certified, benefitting from e-learning courses, demonstrating their proficiency in ICT and equipping them with workrelated IT skills,” he said. Israel said that Microsoft
was effectively partnering with several companies in Nigeria to deliver ICT requirements. “The Microsoft IT Academy school agreement was orchestrated by Microsoft certified partner, Wavetek Nigeria Limited, that worked closely with the Anambra to establish Microsoft ICT Academy programme in the state,” he said. Reports say that the ceremony, held at the Women Development Centre, Awka, attracted members from the state’s legislature, executive arm and traditional rulers.
he had directed that all patrol vehicles, logistics and personnel to be fully on ground. He charged officers and men of the command to strictly keep to their shift duties to ensure the presence of his personnel at all times. “We cannot afford to be taken unawares at our duty posts either at this period or at any other time as management expects us to be very much at alert. “Our core functions of preventing and suppressing smuggling, collecting and accounting for all revenues due to the government, facilitating genuine import and export businesses must be discharged without fear or favour. “We should through our words and conduct, assure legitimate business people of our support and cooperation at all times, while warning them that the command will not condone any attempt to evade duty payments. “Nobody should treat our warnings with levity as not only will we make seizures of prohibited or smuggled items, we will ensure the arrests and prosecution of all persons behind these unlawful acts, “ he said. Othman, however, reiterated the commands believe in zero tolerance on smuggling activities. He commended the efforts of other security agencies in ensuring that smuggling was reduced to the barest minimum.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
THE National Youth Service Corps, popularly called the N.Y.S.C was established in 1973 as one of the schemes to actualise the 3Rs of Rehabilitation Reconciliation and Reconstruction of the country by the then Military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, in line with his popular declaration of “No Victor, No Vanquished� THE NYSC Scheme amongst other objectives was aimed at reuniting the people of Nigeria, thus fulfilling the principles of integration of the Gowon administration because of the bitter and bloody ethno-political colouration of the civil war which the country witnessed from the 1960s. AS a matter of deliberate policy, the scheme made it a point of duty to among other things inculcate in corps members, a sense of discipline, unity, patriotism, integration and dignity of labour. To achieve this, the organisation reserves the right to post prospective corps members to any part of the country, other than his or her own state of origin, except such a corps member was married with proof. OVER the years, the NYSC Scheme has helped t0 unite so many Nigerians even as it has also served as vehicle for cultural, traditional, religious and ethnic cohesion in the Nigerians nation. This is more so when marriages were contracted and conducted amongst Muslims and
THE NIGERIAN
Strengthening The NYSC Scheme Christians between different tribal spouses etc. ALSO, with the passage of time, the NYSC Scheme like so many organisation in Nigeria had been beset with a lot of misfortunes, calling to mind, the issues of blind looting of funds meant for the feeding of corps members, by the scheme former managers who eventually were sent to jail after being found guilty of criminal breach of trust. SOME powerful Nigerians also have been engaging in untoward activities with regards to the scheme, by influencing their postings to choice areas and states, thereby defeating the dreams of the founding fathers of the scheme. THE gradual erosion of the NYSU dream, began with the promotion of negative ethnic cards, by the military junta which openly promoted mediocrity high above competence because of tribal and ethnic considerations. This went a long way to promoting disenchantment to the extent that parents and graduates of, tertiary institutions alike started losing fate in the
NYSC Scheme. WORSE still, is the mutual distrust existing amongst the various ethnic principalities that constitute the geographical entity called Nigeria especially with the rising wave of ethnic religious riots sweeping through the country, particularly the northern geographical region of the country. In view of this development, especially with corps members becoming targets of violent religious attacks by rioters, the NYSC Scheme started losing followeship and support from Nigerians. THE last straw which brought about the present state of disillusionment with the NYSC Scheme was the massacre of some corps members posted to some northern states like Borno last year. This incident was one-to many as there was wide spread condemnation of the act, because life is so precious that its sacrosanct nature must be respected. CORPS members are on national service for their father and, and so, must be treated with utmost respect, and not to be massacred-on the alter of religion by any sect. THE NYSC, rather than been scrapped, should be further strengthened, especially in a period such as this when true patriotism, peace and harmony are required to forge a cohesion and united country.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Perspective NAFDAC: Charting A Befitting Reputation For Nigeria THE concept healthiness is wealthness, is indeed globally upheld. This is predicated on the premise that a nation in quest of politic& and socioeconomic prosperity cannot undermine the well being of the mass of her Citizenry as to do so will amount to putting the proverb cart before the horse. Incontestably, strategic cum positively propelled vision maximally galvanized with intelligence is certain to herald successes in every facet of a nation’s endeavor particularly in the health sub- sector of the nation’s economy Anticipated, an effective and out rightly dynamic approach towards boosting the nation’s healthcare delivery sector via ensuring that curative and preventive medical commodities otherwise known as pharmaceutical products or drugs, remain standardized and uncounterfeited is indeed a sin-qua-non for a sustainable and progressive economic growth. This perhaps explains why the Dr Goodluck Ebelle Jonathan Fed progressively focused democratic administration in Nigeria is working tirelessly and patriotically to ensure that Nigerians have access to a wholly indigenized, dependable as well as an internationally comparable healthcare sector. Unknown to numerous Nigerians, the nation’s health care providing sector is being regularly accorded a maximized government attention in an attempt to
guarantee good and enduring healthcare providing services for all and sundry. However, the choice of Dr Paul Bortwev Orhii an internationally revered Technocrat, Administrator ,Medical con and Legal Luminary, as a substantive Director-Genera) of the nation’s pro-health boosting and human life elongating machinery-the National Agency For Food, Drug Administration and Control(NAFDAC) is indeed riot a misplaced decision or priority going by the various distinct, dynamic and overwhelming health boosting achievements being remarkably made by the agency in its dogged determination to better healthcare provision for the generality of Nigerians in line with the aspirations and determination of the nation’s current D e m o c r a t i c Administration. Apart from the internationalization via total overhaul of the agency’s multimillion naira now ultra-mode, n Laboratory in Agulu in Anambra state ,east of Nigeria, to enable it vender international standard services, NAFDAC s working assiduously towards ensuring that indigenous pharmaceutical firms successfully attains the World Health Organization1s(WHO) pre-qualification for drug production in line with international practices so as to empower our locally produced pharmaceutical products to compete favorably with those of the counterparts abroad.
By MARTHIN F.O. IKHILAE
Already, the agency has commenced collaboration with the nation’s bank of industries in an attempt to initiate a multi-million naira Pharmaceutical development fund which will in turn avail our indigenous pharmaceutical industries with production boosting minute interest loans while simultaneously, making stringent efforts to ensure that a huge success is made of the recently launched Federal Governments Save One Million Lives programme targeted towards achieving the United Nations global strategy to save multimillion lives by 2015 which in rum has placed on the agency’s shoulders the onerous responsibility of directing about or over fifty(50) developed and developing countries worldwide on the modalities of enhancing safety and quality for LifeSaving commodities approved for the programme. On the Legal terrain, the agency through its incumbent chief executive’s wealth of legal experience has emerged persistently victorious having recorded notable, laudable and celebrate able achievements in this regard via successfully securing conviction of the agency’s regulated products counterfeiters thereby achieving a feat which indisputably and remarkably remains outstanding being the first of its kind in the history of the agency’s excellence. Furthermore the agency’s
enabling Act tagged: Decree No 15 of 1993 as amended to Cap Ni Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN) 2004, which empowers it to control and regulate manufacturing,im portation,e xportation,dist r i b u t i o n , a d v e mtisement,sale an d use of
NAE[)AC and Millennium Development Agencies (MDAs), professional Organisations, tertiary institutions as well as the National University Commission which in turn culminated in the inauguration of a National Food Safety Committee which has become a focal
food industries and quick service restaurants who fall to comply with the agency’s stipulated good hygienic practices while imploring intensive surveillance, walk /talk shops as well as grassroots sensitization efforts to drive home its health boosting initiatives and
The Director-General, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii displays the award given to him.
Food Drugs, Cosmetics, Medical devices and Packaged Water including all drinks generally regarded as regulated products of the agency, is currently being compelled to undergo an overhaul hi an attempt to further empower it for more patriotic services. On Food safety, sanitization and regulation, the agency has equally achieved tremendously of which are: the introduction of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point plan for Food safety in Nigeria, the convening of intellectual discuss/ interactions between
“While numerous food products have been certified and registered by the agency under the leadership of its incumbent chief executive, fast food providing industries nationwide are being intensely monitored and highly supervised thereby comparing them to comply with good hygienic practices so as to forestall outbreak of food borne diseases or ailments.”
point of food safety in Nigeria. While numerous food products have been certified and registered by the agency under the leadership of its incumbent chief executive, fast food providing industries nationwide are being intensely monitored and highly supervised thereby comparing them to comply with good hygienic practices so as to forestall outbreak of food borne diseases or ailments. Also, Bakeries are being strictly supervised nationwide by dynamic and strategically seasoned NAFDAC operatives to prevent bakers from using the much detested internationally adjudged deadly flour/ dough enhancer named Potassium Bromate which is known for its Cancer causing ability. Active and very vibrant enforcement operations aimed at arresting erring operators have been maximally sustained leading to closure of fast
activities. Apart from making a huge success of its Vitamin A food fortification programme, as well as maximally promoting food security while imploring stakeholders in the food sector to adopt high quality Cassava flour in the production of bread and other bakery products, it has equally recorded innegligable victory in the Salt iodization programme aimed towards eliminating iodine deficiency disorders in the entire Nigeria Federation. To forester safe and idea application corn usage of Agro-Chemical, befitting guidelines and standard operating procedures have been introduced for effective regulation as well as control of Chemical and are subjected to regular review to ensure its compliance with modern practices whereas risk assessment and field trials or Fertilizer have been imbibed by the agency as part of measures Continues on pg. 14
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Perspective . . . Charting A Befitting Reputation For Nigeria Continued from pg. 13
to enhance effective and efficient control corn management of AgroChemicals nationwide. There is no doubt that modern trend in water provision and consumption has brought about proliferation of water packaging plants/industries nationwide which has subsequently paced on the agency’s, the onus of guaranteeing via dynamic and efficient regulation, suitable manpower training provision laboratory analysis, advisory inspection and consultative meeting and eventually ensuring availability of safe drinking water thereby preventing the outbreak of various water borne diseases like; Cholera, Typhoid Diarrhea etc. In this regard, numerous packaged water products have been laboriously and professionally analyzed, tested and certified for consumption by NAFDAC such that currently about or over 10,000 water products have so far been registered by the agency.. Its recently introduced EClearance Portal which makes possible on-line clearance of goods at the nation’s ports, the agency has established web presence where information on activities of the agency could be easily accessed, On the other hand, a corporate portal which allows in-house information sharing as well as a laboratory information management system to
support quality laboratory procedure and data processes has been put in pace ir1cuding its automated, product administration and monitoring solution which is a web portal that is internet enable to provide electronic platform for the management of the registration process/Eregistration and a data base to capture information on the agency’s regulated products. Obviously, counterfeiting maximally retards health boosting efforts if allowed unabated. This explains why the Dr Orhii led NAFDAC management team have held on tightly to the horns of the proverbial bull in this regard. The agency took the entire world by surprise when it co-opted cutting edge technologies into combating pharmaceutical products counterfeiting, a heroic, historic and dynamic attempt which has earn for it victory arid global recognition as well as distinct international reputation for Nigeria. This comprise; Truscan technology, Back Eye an Radio Frequency identification Systems and the Mobile Authentication Service while &so engaging the global pharma health fund minilab test kits. While the Black Eye has the ability to screen multiple drug samples simultaneously the Radio Frequency identification System possesses the
• Dr. James Walls Mayor of Maryland and the President of US Mayors’ Conference, presenting an award to DG NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii while the Co-ordinator of Nigerians in Diaspora, Chief (Mrs.) Temitope Ajayi looks on at a ceremony in Milwaukee, USA.
capacity to trace and track regulated medicines and foods as well as avert forgery of sensitive documents. The Truscan is however, a hand he’d device which utilizes Roman Spectroscopy to detect counterfeit pharmaceutical products while the Mobile Authentication Service uses the Global System Of Mobil Telecommunication short message service (GSM SMS) platform which is outrightly outstanding being an internationally acclaimed and applauded premier
innovation. These are indeed few of the numerous daring achievements at the agency that has made it a glowing tamp which can no longer be hidden under a bushel as these performance are being highly applauded celebrated trailed by accolades and commendations both within and more internationally where NAFDAC has successfully set a very dynamic pace for other nations(both developed and developing) to follow. Arising from this is the series of international
“Impressively the United States of America, a noteable World power, a strict enforcer and advocate of high standards, has remained at the fore front of appreciating and showering of encomiums on the NAFDAC helmsman Dr Paul B. Orhii inview of his outstanding dynamic ant-counterfeiting onslaughts...”
awards that has trailed the agency’s Chief ExecutiveDr Paul B. Orhii’s innovative and progressive performance. Impressively the United States of America, a noteable World power, a strict enforcer and advocate of high standards, has remained at the fore front of appreciating and showering of encomiums on the NAFDAC helmsman Dr Paul B. Orhii inview of his outstanding dynamic ant-counterfeiting onslaughts and techniques thereby providing a technical poo1 from which other countries of the World like the United States, Canada etc currently sources knowledge on how to combat the seeming hydraheaded menace. It is regard that our indefatigable and outrightly patriotic NAFOAC Chief Executive Was bombarded with numerous indigenous and international excellence awards during the year under review among which
are: the Nigeria National honour of Officer & the Order & the Niger (O.O.N),an award for special congressional recognition endorsed by a notable American Congress woman Janice Hahn and presented at the James Madison Hail, Capitol Hill Washington D C,USA, an excellence award of the United States World Conference of Mayors which conferred on Dr Orhii, the status of a honourary Citizen of the City of District Heights Maryland presentation which was made during a four day conference of US mayors held in Milwaukee a certificate of recognition from the Senate of the State of Georgia also in the United States of America etc to mention but a few. This has no doubt boosted the Image and reputation of the Nation globally in the committee of Nations. • Martins F.O. Ikhilae is a Lagos based Pubic Affairs Analyst Email: man;nsikhuae@yrnall.com Tel:080234OS821
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Lifestyle MOST writers opined that if you do a particular thing daily and consistently for 21 days, it would become a habit . Though recently some argue that the time frame is 60 days, one truth remains the same; you can actually imbibe a habit (any habit) if you want to. The hold of habit on the fabric of our lives is unrivaled. A man is caught harassing an underage female because of habits he built over time. An executive skips out of work to drag a smoke because of the habit he has. A top government official is accused of embezzlement and root of the matter is his habit. If bad habits can have a hold so strong on us and lead to such devastating
consequences what wonderful effects would good habits have on our lives if we imbibe them? Habitis Key to Self Development Habits transverse all areas of our lives - health, finance, relationship, mental etc. Our habits rank among top cause of our success or failure in life. A student with a habit of sleeping off each time he takes up a book to read wishes to pass his exams, how is that possible? You have a habit of spending all you have and yet desire to have money in your account through savings, how can that happen? You even have to imbibe certain habits of
Power Of Good Habits By ADO ERHIRHI
affirmation, right communication and show of affection to make relationships work and grow strong. Habit is key to making life better or destroying it. All Habits are Learned In each area of our life the decisive factor in the achievement of success and
failure is the development of the specific habits that lead automatically and inevitably to the results we desire. The good news about habits is that all habits are learned, as a result of practice and repetition. You can learn any habit that you consider necessary or desirable. By using your will
power and discipline, you can shape your personality and character in almost any way you desire. Like Brain Tracy said, “you can write the script of your own life and if you are not happy with the current script, you can rip it up and write it again.’ his can be done by developing the relevant habits necessary Benjamin Franklin felt he was a little too rough, ill mannered and argumentative
affairs, he would remind himself to practice that virtue. Overtime, he developed these virtues and made them habits of his character. With these habits and a sound character, he became one of the most popular personalities and statesmen of his age. He became enormously influential both in Paris as an Ambassador from the United States during the
as a young man and he realized that his attitudes and behaviors were creating animosity toward him from his associates and coworkers. He resolved to change by rewriting the script of his own personality. He began by making up a list of 12 virtues that he felt the ideal person would possess. He then concentrated on the development of one virtue each week. All week long, as he went about his daily
Revolutionary War, and during the Constitutional Convention when the constitution and the Bill of Rights for the United states was debated, negotiated and agreed upon. By working on himself to develop the habits of an excellent person, he made himself into a person capable of shaping the course of history. Good Habits Help Are you satisfied with your level of development? What habits do you desire to have that you don’t current have? What habits can you develop to make yourself a better person? What habits can you imbibe to make you get paid more and promoted faster? What habits can you learn to make you a better business person? What habits can you learn to help you get along well with others? What habits can you learn to help you live a healthy life? Sit down and identify them and start to work them into your life. Till we talk again Ado Erhirhi is an insightful speaker and writer. He coordinates MirrorView Services, a Human Resource Development outfit. Contact him for your trainings and speaking engagements.
“Habits transverse all areas of our lives - health, finance, relationship, mental etc. Our habits rank among top cause of our success or failure in life. A student with a habit of sleeping off each time he takes up a book to read wishes to pass his exams, how is that possible?”
Harmful Effect Of Smoking SMOKING is the practice in which a substance most commonly tobacco or cannabis is borned and the smoke is target inhaled cigarettes is the most common form of recreating drug use. Tobacco smoking is today the most popular form of smoking and it is practiced by over one billion people. The history of smoking can be dated to 5000 BC. Early smoking evolved in a sociation with religions ceremonies as offering to deities. After the Europeans exploration and can quest of the American, the practise of smoking spread to the rest parts of the world in regime like india and sub-saharan Africa. If I ever get a chance to ban any thing in the world it would be smoking. Because then and even adult new taking smoking as a hobby which is very harmful taking smoking as a hobby which is very harmful to the health.
By OSIEGBU ISIOMA LOUIS
Smoking primary is practiced by some 1.1 billion people and about up to 1/3 of adult population lit varies considability. Recent study had shown that smoking dieting are among the significant cause of cancer to tobacco plays a role in a multiple of the disease which is now the greatest cause of premature death world wide. There are approximately 4000 demicals in cigarette of which 2000 are concern to be poisonous and 60 are identified as carcognnce health disease is the leading cause of death and the major cause of death among smokers. At least half of all life long smokers die earlier as a result of smoking statisticians has shown that the risk of dying from lungs cancer before 83 is 22:1% for a male smoker and 11.9% for a female smoker. But for
a non-smoker are a 1.1% probability of dying from long cancer before 85. This means that cigarette sniffs out of an alarming rate to smoking related diseases which is about 5 million death per year. This means someone loses his life to
smoking every 8 second same where in the world. If you currently smoke use this information to help you to stop your smoking habit as deadly. Don’t waste was anymore of your life to cigarette. Be your own hero save your life. Kill smoking before it kills you.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Focus
International Day For the Elim
We Are Squaring Violence – Hon. (
Mrs. Maigida Blessing, Commissioner for Women Affairs TODAY, November 25, is set aside by the United Nations to mark the International Day to End Violence Against Women and girls the world over. According to the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, “one in every three women” is estimated to be affected by violence in her life-time. The Secretary General stated that violence against women is a human rights violation, a consequence of discrimination against women, in law and also in practice, and of persisting inequalities between men and women and that it impacts on, and impedes, progress in many areas, including poverty eradication, combating HIV/AIDS and peace and security. He also stated that it is not inevitable but that prevention is possible and essential, describing it as “a global pandemic,” also noting that up to 70 percent of women experience violence in their life-time. So, as the world marks the day, how does the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Edo State intend to commemorate it? The Honourable Commissioner, Women Affairs and Social Development Edo State, Hon. (Mrs.) Blessing Maigida spoke with our Features Editor/Principal Features Writer, Ijeoma Umeh on the activities of her ministry in this regard, stating that, “everyday in my ministry is a day against violence.”
Excerpts: Can you give us a brief on what has been happening in your ministry regarding making significant progress in ending violence against women? First and foremost, I wish to use this very good platform to congratulate women and girls all over the globe who I would not refer to as victims but survivors of violence in all forms of it and to tell them to continue to deplore their own experience, as sad as it is, in teaming up with all other agents of change to square up against violence as it affects women everywhere in the world. Collectively, we shall overcome. Our hope is that soonest, violence will be reduced to the barest minimum if not completely exterminated from the world system. Back to your question, I wish to reiterate here like I have done in the past, that in my ministry we are doing all we can, and we do not essentially wait for the statutory United Nations days as mapped out in the UN Calendar of activities, to propagate any cause that we find will be of positive impact on the lives of our women, the girl-child or children as a whole. For us, everyday is a day to relentlessly fine-tune modalities towards ending all those negative issues that militate against the progress
of women, psychologically, emotionally, and physically, including issues of empowerment, sociopolitically, economically and otherwise. So, we have not relented in making interventions in all those areas. Violence against women is therefore not an exception and in whatever form it comes, whether as domestic or external aggression, rape or physical assault occasioning bodily harm or injury, we fight it with all the resources at our disposal, ensuring that the human rights of the woman, the girl-child or even the youth, no matter their gender, is upheld. What are the specific considerations this time, in ending violence against women and up holding their human rights? First, our antenna is up; we are keen about knowing indepth, the root cause of violence; the channels of violence, the reasons why violence, occur, those who are prime culprits or suspects incases of violence and essentially, the categories of women who are prone to violence. It should be understood that it has come to the extent that we can boldly say that every women is a potential victim of violence although the UN has said one in every three women, the rate is getting more disturbing by the day. What Informs This Startling opinion of Yours?
First, the sex and gender classification of a woman, the girl-child and even the newborn and unborn baby girl makes them very vulnerable. That does not imply that God shouldn’t have created the woman. No. That does not also mean that women should deny their womanhood or put on the toga that is different from their characteristic. No. What it means is what the society has perceived a woman to be – the gentle, the weak one, the one that could be easily hurt; the one that has no likely power, physical strength, capacity and wherewithal to defend herself against oppression. For this reason, gullible persons take advantage of the woman and mete out all forms of violence against her. Secondly, discrimination against women, even as unborn babies, is perceived. In fact, it is a very worrisome form of violence against the female specie. Some couples, while trying to reproduce, do all manner of medical tests to ascertain the sex of the unborn child. If it is a girl foetus, it is promptly aborted. That is a sinful act against the God of Creation, crime against humanity and a clear violation of the right to life of every human being. That is also discriminatory, preferring one sex against another. That suggests that you are against abortion of the female foetus… No! Not in that sense of the word. As change agents, we propagate the family planning culture as a way of organizing the family institution; we advice couples to plan adequately for the number of children they can also adequately cater for, in accordance to their economic, social and even psychological
capacities. In terms of couples who have had a number of children already, We advice them to stop having more children in order to comprehensively cater for the ones already begat – give them all their basic needs which include shelter, food, clothing, medicare, basic education and all other emotional psychological supports to enable them grow into meaningful adult lives. The denial of all these basic rights is violence in itself. For couples who have either all male or female children, we also advice them to stop and give total care to their children. They should stop selecting sex, or having selective abortions, which could endanger the lives of these women. They should stop discriminating against the girl-child. Equal assess to every good thing of life should avail both the male and female child. Doing otherwise is violence. We Also Understand That Rape Is Violence… Yes! It’s a very terrible form of violence, taking sexual advantage of a woman, a girlchild by the use of force and the sheer application of might against the perceived ‘weak vessel: that is a terrible, very terrible affront on the female gender which we regard as very unacceptable. The worst being the defilement of young female children and assault on babies, leaving them scarred for life. We ask anyone who has such evil intention to desist from such barbaric acts, it must stop and anyone who is caught would face the full wrath of the law. We won’t stop dragging the culprits up and down until we get justice. We are collaborating with the police, Human Rights Organizations to ensure that adequate
punishment is me all culpable pers regard.
How do you trea domestic especially when are regarded as their wives befor
It’s a pity that our agitations in t the law still regar not separated the c are married u relevant law, cus otherwise, as in That is a major s all family issues th had to contend time, even in violence – occasioning bod rape, battery, property ownersh A legally marrie an entity, a sim before the law. men even take advanta deal ruthlessly wives and get aw women do not ow they do not engag that will be of eco social benefits to t and their familie recourse to the per their male Although the UN umbrella of th Nations, has prop it a legal instru women’s right to ownership sh entrenched as a fu right, that women far as reprodu concerned is a fu right, the limitatio there when it com family unit. Our also a draw b woman who own in her own name the wrath of the h his kinsmen. families the man d the number of ch woman should be no say. No one co
“They should stop selecting sex, or ha selective abortions, which could enda the lives of these women. They should discriminating against the girl-child. E assess to every good thing of life sh avail both the male and female child. D otherwise is violence.”
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Focus
ination Of Violence Against Women
Up Against All Forms Of (Mrs.) Blessing Maigida
eted out to ons in this
at cases of violence, husbands s one with re the law?
despite all that regard, rds and has couple who under the stomary or ndividuals. set back in hat we have with over domestic assault dily harm, even in hip. ed couple is mple unit Therefore,
age of it to with their way with it; wn property; ge in things onomic and themselves es without rmission of partners. women, an he United perly made ument that o property hould be undamental n’s right as uction is undamental ons are still mes to the r culture is ack. Any ns property e will draw husband or In some determines hildren the ear. She has nsiders her
aving anger d stop Equal hould Doing
body as an instrument or channel of reproduction. The maternal dangers, the mortality, the risks, the social inconveniences it brings about for her are not considered. These are all forms of violence which we are tackling squarely, even the violence against a woman’s sexuality. If a woman is not in the mood for sexual relations with her partner she shouldn’t be forced. That is rape and it is an act of violence if the man takes her against her will. But is there any circumstance where the woman should deny her husband his sexual satisfaction? Of course! The typical Nigeria woman for instance works harder than her male counterpart, even in a white
She has the right to protect herself! She has the right to say no to intimacy at that time. We expect that if the man rapes her at that point, he should face the wrath of the law,, but not really, even the police man would laugh you to scorn. How can a man rape his wife? How can a man rape himself? It is the same attitude: How can a man beat his wife? How can a man beat himself? Because they are regarded as one. Woman have lost their lives, their dignity, their self-worth and their image in the eyes of the society as a result of violence and it must stop! So, what measures is your ministry taking in mitigating the effect of violence against women? We are ensuring that women are empowered. We
facilities are to be assessed. Women’s Adult Literacy programmes are being finetuned. Skill Acquisition are on, family planning programmes are on, rehabilitation centres are being worked out in collaboration with WDP Chairpersons in all the 18 Local Government Areas, and so on and so forth. What would be your message to couples at this time, considering that most acts of violence emanate from the home? Love, understanding and trust are the bedrock of any marriage institution. Men should show more love to their partners; there should be a passionate concerned understanding of the position of the woman,
“She has the right to say no to intimacy at that time. We expect that if the man rapes her at that point, he should face the wrath of the law,, but not really, even the police man would laugh you to scorn. How can a man rape his wife? How can a man rape himself?” colar job or as an entrepreneur. Society has made women to have to work doubly harder in order to meet with the changing economic tides. Nature itself has foisted women with dual roles as channels for reproduction (even as sex care givers), as wives, as mothers, companions, complementary partners, helpers, or soul mates. She fits in all these roles, she apportions time to every bit of it as she develops. You hardly find a woman who sits cross-legged at home without helping or supporting her husband and family. Women work doubly hard. And when she’s at the home front too, she puts in her best, playing her role effectively. At times, the human body weakens out, baulking to the stress which it has been confronted with. That may just be the time when the man wants her to perform her conjugal duties.
have realized the role of economic self-sustenance in the issue of violence. The woman that is not economically self-sustaining suffers more violence because the angry man who is the bread winner regards her as a stooge in his path towards progress. She has come to eat his future up. He mistreats her. He even abhors her. Whatever she says is not accepted. He does not regard her with respect. In order to send the signals across, he beats her up at the slightest opportunity. He rapes her rather than being affectionate and understanding. So, we are ensuring that by 2020 every woman, beginning from the rural areas is fully empowered, economically and otherwise, to face the future. Micro credits are being worked out, grants and non-interest credit
first as a child bearer and rarer and as a helper and home maker and keeper. Those are not easy roles for a single person to adequately fit into. Secondly, violence, whatever form it takes, should be stopped. Rape should be abhorred. If she does not willingly accept that gesture, don’t force her. Beating up a woman is very bad. It is only a coward that beats up a woman, even to the extent of inflicting mortal injuries upon her. Dialogue is the best. Understanding is even better. Defilement is a mortal sin, a grave offense. People should desist from it. We are also setting up committees to advance measures to tackle all these ills. We are not resting on our oars, but we are still appealing to the society to be friendly, kind to and understanding of the situation of the female gender.
Princess Margareth Jos-Bazuaye
Illiteracy Bane Of
Women Empowerment
– Princess Margaret Jos-Bazuaye ON her part, the Director, Women Affairs and Social Development, Princess (Mrs.) Margaret J o s - B a z u a y e , collaborating the statements of the h o n o u r a b l e Commissioner, also stated that the ministry is finetuning measures towards reducing violence against rural women, which she said, is on the increase due to illiteracy and the lack of awareness on their fundamental human rights Particularly by the rural women. “Illiteracy has always been a major issue, a stumbling block in all efforts geared at stemming the tide of violence against women. We are working hard to bridge the gap between the rural and urban woman by ensuring that
adult literacy programmes are properly enforced among our rural women; if these women lack education, there is every likelihood that they would resist all efforts geared towards assisting them run from acts of violence. They have to be properly enlightened on their reproductive rights, even on their economic, social – political and other rights. Access to credit is an issue and we are tackling it. We have begun the tour of the rural areas; we are working with the WDP Chairpersons and we are going to bridge this yawning gap.” She stated. Startling Statistics! Up to 70 percent of women experience
violence in their lifetime Between 500,000 to 2 million people are trafficked annually into situations including prostitution, forced labour, slavery or servitude, according to estimates. Women and girls account for about 80 percent of the detected victims. It is estimated that more than 130 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM/C, mainly in Africa and some middle Eastern countries. The cost of intimate partner violence in the United States alone exceeds $5.8 billion per year; $4.1 billion is for direct medical and health care services, while productivity losses account for nearly $1.8 billion.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Tribute
Festus Iyayi: Tribute To A Consumate Fighter
PRECISELY twenty five days after we lost one of our most unswerving leader, Baba Omojola, whose entombment proceedings are still ongoing, death has again taken one of our best through a ghastly motor accident primarily caused by the irresponsible culture of impunity often displayed by the convoys of crass public office holders who feel the capacity to “fly” on the road magnifies their obscure power of gripping other road users to acknowledge their weight even when-it clearly further exhibits how much contempt they have for people and lives. Professor Festus Iyayi, a very rare endowment; an embodiment of meekness, cerebral dexterity, prolific writer, articulate speaker, dependable leader, honest and valiant in all things; was murdered in his prime by agents of an uncultured, rash, spineless, visionless and nauseatingly corrupt ruling elite as the convoy of a Governor who is yet to recover from an earlier accident resulting from similar reckless driving, which almost took his life, speed off with the blood of a man who had spent nearly all of his life and resources fighting for a decent society; spearheading protests for the enthronement of social equality; a man who wouldn’t have thought the convoy of one of the most unworthy beneficiaries of his struggles would eventually kill him with such reckless abandon. Born in Ugbegun, Edo State 66 years ago in 1947, Festus started his education at the Annunciation Catholic College in his village and later, Government College, Ughelli, Delta State. He soon after read Industrial Economics at the Kiev Institute of Economics in the defunct Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, ending with a doctorate at the University of Bradford in England. He thereafter returned to Nigeria and since 1980, until his death, he was a lecturer in the department of Business Administration at the
University of Benin. He also did his last sabbaticals with the Nigeria Labour Congress where he added values to the work of Africa’s largest trade union federation. . . . An award winner from early stage of his education, Prof. Iyayi got his first award as an essayist in 1968 when he won the John Kennedy Essay competition organized by the Embassy of the United States of America in Nigeria. He was then in his final year at Government college, Ughelli. A writer of high repute, his book, Heroes, did not only enjoy popular reading across the globe, it won him the esteemed commonwealth writers prize in 1988. He had also authored other thought provoking novels such as violence in 1979, contract in 1982 and Awaiting Court Martial in 1996. These books are compelling depiction of the decadence of the Nigerian society, a society that has continuously increased in her slide to banal reputations with leaders who continue to flaunt stolen public wealth in the face of the impecunious millions that form over ninety percent of the citizenry. To these millions who bear the brunt of the imperious presence of profligate ruling elite that is exceptional in its contempt for good governance, Festus committed the entirety of his productive life. Festus was a conscientious organizer who had been involved in the development of ideologically focused organizations of the Marxist flank as well as mass organizations committed to the desired change for a country that is so endowed with all that is needed to lead in development. Festus did not only organize and led intellectuals; he was deeply involved in organizing peasants in remote areas of his native Edo State. He was a leading light in the socialist movement in Nigeria from the Socialist Congress of Nigeria (SCON) to the Socialist Party of Nigeria. He was part of the ideological substratum of the
By DENJA YAQUB
Radical Student Movement in the 80s when students spoke with one patriotic voice under united, strong and vibrant auspices. A dexterous leader he was. At the level of human rights and pro democracy struggles, he succeeded Dr Beko Ransome - Kuti as President
unleash all sorts of neo liberal policies that has today left nearly all components of our collective socio economic and political existence in shambles. ASUU, under professor Iyayi’s leadership was a leading voice against the manipulation of that regime,
every Nigerian to have education regardless or class barriers. He saw scholarship as a major tool that can ensure the development of any country and to achieve this, only education that is people driven in access, content and essence required. He put all of his energy, resources and intellect in this struggle; and indeed, lost his life in the cause of the struggle as he was killed on his way to a meeting scheduled to advance the cause of the struggle for qualitative
lecturers that were teaching what they were not paid to teach, consequently, people like Festus who, in the perception of the regime fell in this category, were hunted and hounded out of the system. In fact Dr. Patrick Wilmot, then a lecturer at the Ahmadu Bello University was thrown across the border, deported to the United Kingdom, and forcefully extricated from his Nigerian wife in a manner only presumed possible in war times. The students’
education in Nigeria. He had suffered so much state attacks in the cause of his involvement in the struggles of our people, the most ferocious and traumatic being the state sponsored evacuation of his family from his official residence as a lecturer at the University of Benin following his removal as staff of the university along with Prof. Itse Sagay, Dr. Osagie Obayuwana both of the law faculty at the time as well as Tunde Fatunde of the Faculty of Arts. This was at the twilight of the orchestrated obliteration of quality education in Nigeria, which was carried out by the Babangida regime on behalf of neo liberal institutions, especially the International Monetary Fund, IMF, who abhorred resistance to their grit to seize our economy. The systemic attack on education started with the annihilation of the culture of critical intellectualism when the regime, in open declaration of its disdain for quality education, claimed there were
movement was not left out and today, the result is clearly evident in the catastrophic recession in our education system. Intellectualism has not only been destroyed, teaching and learning infrastructures in the system have totally collapsed. The demand for proper funding for the effective revitalization of these structures that will ensure quality education are the main issues in contention leading to the current strike by university lecturers. Festus was committed to the struggle to actualize these demands until he was cut down in an accident that could have been avoided if the governor’s convoy had learnt a lesson from their previous accident. Prof. Iyayi was a colossus in the movement and his death is indeed a major smack that would not elapse so easily, but the challenge of regenerating his fighting spirit, dexterity and courage will ensure the continuity of all struggles he was involved in until victory.
• Late Prof Festus Iyayi
of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR. He was actively involved in the Campaign for Democracy. And as a writer, he was part of the Association of Nigerian Authors, encouraged by the commitment of personalities like Ken Saro Wiwa. The most open attestation of his activism is his leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU. He was elected President of ASUU in 1986 at a time when the imperial structures of international finance capital used the opportunity provided by the anti people regime of General Ibrabim Babangida to
most especially the economic sting called Structural Adjustment Programme, SAP. He led ASUU to team up with Nigeria Labour Congress, National Association of Nigerian Students, and several others to challenge the introduction of SAP and other draconian policies that were clearly intended to hand over our country to the whims of neo liberal institutions whose policies were sketched to subsume the entire Nigerian populace and our collective resources in second slavery, the fulcrum of the new capitalist economic order. He fought for quality education and the right of
“Festus was a conscientious organizer who had been involved in the development of ideologically focused organizations of the Marxist flank as well as mass organizations committed to the desired change for a country that is so endowed with all that is needed to lead in development.”
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Gender Issues
IN the pre-colonial period, women played a major role in social and economic activities. Division of labour was along gender lines and women controlled such occupations as processing, mat weaving, pottery making and cooking. Moreover, land was communally owned and women had access to it through their husbands or parents. Although a man was the head of the household in a patrilineal system. Older women had control of the labour of young family member. Women were also central to trade. Among the Yorubas, they were the major figures in long distance trade, with enormous opportunities for accumulating wealth and acquiring titles. The most successful among them rose to the prestigious chieftaincy title of Iyalode, a position of great privilege and power. In politics, women were not as docile or powerless as contemporary literature tends to portray them. The basic unit of political organization was the family and in the common metrical arrangement, which allowed a woman to gain considerable
authority over her children, a woman and her offspring could form a motor block in the household. Power and privileges in a household were also based on age and gender, thereby allowing senior women to have a voice on many issues. Because the private and public area were intertwined, a woman’s ability to control resources and people in a household was at the same time an exercise, in public power. She could use food production to gain respect. She could control her children and influence men through this power. She could simply withdraw and use the kitchen as her own personal domicile for interaction with her colleagues, friends, and children. Beyond the household level, power as generally dominated by men, but in many areas, specific titles were given to women. The queen mother, a powerful position among the Edo and Yoruba, could be bestowed upon the king’s mother or a free woman of considerable stature. In her own palace, the queen mother presided over meetings with subordinate title holders in her support.
Understanding The Role Of Nigerian Women Yoruba and Hausa legends describe period when women were either the actual kings or heroines. Such women as Moremi of Ile-Ife and Amina of Zaria are notable
legendary figures, as are the powerful queens in the Ondo and Daura histories. The most serious threat to the influence and privileges of women occurred during the 20th century, when
By HAUWA ISMAILA
patriarchy combined with colonial changes to alter under relations. As male chiefs collaborated with the British colonial administration in
collecting taxes and governing, the position of female chiefs declined in importance when the economy became increasing geared toward the production of cash crop for export, Nigeria men and
“Women, pushed to the background were forced to shift to the production of subsistence crops. A pervious land tenure system that had prevented land alienation gave way to land commercialization, favouring those with access to money gained from the same of cash crops.”
European firms dominated the distribution of rubber, cocoa, groundnuts (peanut) and palm oil. Women, pushed to the background were
occupations introduced by colonialism. The most powerful agency of change for the modern woman has been Nigeria’s formal education
forced to shift to the production of subsistence crops. A pervious land tenure system that had prevented land alienation gave way to l a n d commercialization, favouring those with access to money gained from the same of cash crops. Western stile education also favoured boys over girls and thus largely excluded women from many of the new
system, from which a large number of elite women have emerged. Intelligent, educated, and confident, they can be found in all leading occupations; they now challenge many aspect of patriarch and are gradually organizing to ensure that the political arena expands sufficiently to accommodate them. Behind every successful man there is a always a successful woman to succeed him.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
International Features
Nuclear Deal Blocks Iran’s Path To Bomb - Obama
IRAN struck a historic deal yesterday with the United States and five other world powers, agreeing to a temporary freeze of its nuclear program in the most significant agreement between Washington and Tehran in more than three decades of estrangement. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani endorsed the agreement, which commits Iran to curb its nuclear activities for six months in exchange for limited and gradual sanctions relief, including access to $4.2 billion from oil sales. The sixmonth period will give diplomats time to negotiate a more sweeping agreement. It builds on the momentum of the public dialogue opened during September ’s annual U.N. gathering, which included a 15-minute phone conversation between President Barack Obama and moderate-leaning Rouhani, who was elected in June. The package includes freezing Iran’s ability to enrich uranium at a maximum 5 percent level, which is well below the threshold for weapons-grade material and is aimed at easing Western concerns that Tehran could one day seek nuclear arms. Obama hailed the pact’s provisions, which include curbs on Iran’s enrichment and other projects that could be used to make nuclear arms, as key to preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear threat. “Simply put, they cut off Iran’s most likely paths to a bomb,” he told reporters in Washington. For Iran, keeping the enrichment program active was a critical goal. Iran’s leaders view the country’s ability to make nuclear fuel as a source of national pride and an essential part of its insistence at nuclear self-sufficiency. Giving up too much on the enrichment program would have likely brought a storm of protest by Iranian hard-liners, who were already uneasy over the marathon nuclear talks and Rouhani’s outreach to Washington. In a nationally broadcast speech, Rouhani said the accord
recognizes Iran’s “nuclear rights” even if that precise language was kept from the final document because of Western resistance. “No matter what interpretations are given, Iran’s right to enrichment has been recognized,” said Rouhani, who later posed with family
and reserves the right to defend itself. That is a reference to possible military action against Iran. Netanyahu has said the international community is giving up too much to Iran, which it believes will retain the ability to produce a nuclear
• Barack Obama
members of nuclear scientists killed in slayings in recent years that Iran has blamed on Israel and allies. Saying “trust is a two-way street,” Rouhani insisted that talks on a comprehensive agreement should start immediately. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who led his country’s delegation, called on both sides to see the agreement as an “opportunity to end an unnecessary crisis and open new horizons.” But initial reaction in Israel was strongly negative. Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, called the deal, a “historic mistake.” Speaking to his Cabinet, Netanyahu said yesterday that Israel is not bound by the deal
countries, friction points remain — notably Iran’s support of the Syrian regime of Bashar Assad. The United States also has said Iran supports terrorism throughout the region and commits widespread human rights violations. The Geneva negotiations followed secret face-to-face
nuclear program will be subject to “increased transparency and intrusive monitoring.” “Taken together, these first step measures will help prevent Iran from using the cover of negotiations to continue advancing its nuclear program as we seek to negotiate a long-
more would come from imports of gold and other precious metals, petrochemical exports and Iran’s auto sector, as well as easier access to “humanitarian transactions.” “The core sanctions architecture ... remains firmly in place through these six months, including with respect to oil and financial services,” Kerry said. He said those sanctions will result in more than $25 billion
• Hassan Rouhani
weapon and threaten Israel. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, who joined the final negotiations along with the foreign ministers of Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany, said the pact will make U.S. allies in the Middle East, including Israel, safer reducing the threat of war. “Agreement in Geneva,” he tweeted. “First step makes world safer. More work now.” The deal marks a milestone between the two countries, which broke diplomatic ties 34 years ago when Iran’s Islamic revolution climaxed in the storming of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. Since then, relations between the two countries had been frigid to hostile. Although the deal lowered tensions between the two
talks between the U.S. and Iran over the past year, The Associated Press has learned. The discussions, held in the Persian Gulf nation of Oman and elsewhere, were kept hidden even from America’s closest allies, including its negotiating partners and Israel, until two months ago. A White House statement said the deal limits Iran’s existing stockpiles of enriched uranium, which can be turned into the fissile core of nuclear arms. The statement also said the accord curbs the number and capabilities of the centrifuges used to enrich and limits Iran ability to “produce weaponsgrade plutonium” from a reactor in the advanced stages of construction. The statement also said Iran’s
“Since it was revealed in 2003, Iran’s enrichment program has grown from a few dozen enriching centrifuges to more than 18,000 installed and more than 10,000 operating. The machines have produced tons of low-enriched uranium, which can be turned into weapons grade material.”
term, comprehensive solution that addresses all of the international community’s concerns,” said the statement. Since it was revealed in 2003, Iran’s enrichment program has grown from a few dozen enriching centrifuges to more than 18,000 installed and more than 10,000 operating. The machines have produced tons of low-enriched uranium, which can be turned into weapons grade material. Iran also has stockpiled almost 200 kilograms (440 pounds) of higher-enriched uranium in a form that can be converted more quickly to fissile warhead material than the low-enriched uranium. Its supply is nearly enough for one bomb. In return for Iran’s nuclear curbs, the White House statement promised “limited, temporary, targeted, and reversible (sanctions) relief” to Iran, noting that “the key oil, banking, and financial sanctions architecture, remains in place.” And it said any limited sanctions relief will be revoked and new penalties enacted if Iran fails to meet its commitments. Kerry said the relief offered would give Iran access to $4.2 billion from oil sales. Approximately $1.5 billion
in lost oil revenues over six months. Those conditions are being highlighted by the U.S. administration in its efforts to demonstrate that Iran is still in pain. The administration has urged Congress to hold off on any new sanctions and give the accord a chance to prove its worth. But one influential member of Congress was quick to criticize the deal. Rep. Ed Royce, the Republican chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, expressed “serious concerns,” saying the United States was “relieving Iran of the sanctions pressure built up over years,” while allowing Tehran to “keep the key elements of its nuclear weapons-making capacity.” Obama hailed the deal as putting “substantial limitations” on a nuclear program that the United States and its allies fear could be turned to nuclear weapons use. “While today’s announcement is just a first step, it achieves a great deal,” Obama said. “For the first time in nearly a decade, we have halted the progress of the Iranian nuclear program, and key parts of the program will be rolled back.” • Courtesy: AP
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Science
With Oyakhilome Clementina
Vegetative Propagation
IT is an asexual method of reproduction occurring in higher plants, which involves the vegetative organs like the roots, stems and leaves. Types of vegetative propagation Vegetative propagation can be further dividend into two types and they are the natural vegetative propagation and the artificial vegetative propagation. The natural vegetative reproduction include bulbs e.g onions. Rhizomes e.g corms and ginger, Stem tubers e.g yam and Suckers e.g banana. Root tubers e.g cassava and carrot, Runner e.g creeping stem. Artificial vegetative reproduction include, cutting, crafting, budding. Stem tubers Irish potatoe and yam are swollen stem tubers, each has a swollen branch of the main stem of the plant. They possess the “eyes� which represent the buds within the reduced scale leaves. But the eyes found in yam is not easily seen but the bud on a tuber of yam, sprouts only when a new shoot develops, only when there is a favourable condition. Rhizome They are underground
shoot which grows horizontally. They are swollen and have food reserve. At the buds, roots and shoots grows out e.g ginger, cannalily. Bulbs It is an underground shoot with reduced triangular stem. The stem bears thick fleshy storage leaves that are further covered by brown scale like leaves e.g onion and harmattan lily. Corms They are underground shoots whose stems contain stored food. Corms grow vertically, while the swollen fleshy stem is covered by brown scale – like leaves. The roots are adventitious roots e.g. Gladiolus. But cocoyam brings forth new corms at the base of the aerial shoot, some of the adventitious roots are referred to as contractile roots which pull new corm down to the level of the original corm from which the new one grow from. Stolons They are slender side branches that arise from the base of a stem, but most times grow into the soil and move horizon tally from the parent plant. After some distances, the terminal bud of the stolon grows out of the
ground and a new plants is developed. This new plant has both nodes and internodes that looks like a runner e.g taro variety of cocoyam known as colocasia and passion flower known as pass flora Runners Runners also are referred to as creeping stems. They are slender branches arising from axillary buds and creeping on the surface of the ground. They have both nodes and internodes. One characteristics about them is that, they can separate from their mother plant, through the death at the internodes, but the terminal buds still continue to grow e.g oxalis conciliate and desmodium adscendes. Offset They are short, thick horizontal branch produced at the apex. A new plant is usually formed from the ring of leaves and cluster of roots. Daughter plants usually break away from the mother plant. An offset arises from the axil of the leaf but it is usually stouter, shorter and most common in plants with whorled leaves e.g water hyacinth and water lettuce. Suckers
They are short horizontal branches arising from a stem just below the soil surface. Suckers are short and thick because they contain food reserve, they grow upward either close or some distance far away from the parent plant. They continue living after the death of the parent plant. Adventitious bud These plants leave develop buds on the leaves which tend to grow into a complete matured plant whenever they drop to the soil e.g bryophyllum. Also roots of sweet potato develop buds that are able to grow into a new plant whenever they are exposed to sunlight. Bulbis They are reproductive buds that develop in the axils of lateral leaves as short swollen structures containing food reserve. At maturity the buds fall off to the ground to form a new plant e.g wild yam. Budding Some cells at time form orie or more chains or subchains from which individual cells separate to form new independent plants e.g yeast. Gemmae Gemmae are special bodies developed on either the leaf
branch or thallus for vegetative propagation purpose e.g march antia. Leaf tip Adiantum caudatum and polypodium flagelliferum are some ferns that exhibit a kind of movement and they are known as walking ferns as they grow, their leaves become very long and bend down to touch the ground as they do that, they strike root at the tips where buds are form which then grows and form new plants. Artificial propagation techniques include cuttings, layering and crafting. Cuttings A cutting is a small branch that has at least two nodes and when placed in moist soil they grow roots at the base that grow into new plant e.g sugarcane, croton, cassava, hibiscus. Layering This is a method employed by plants who flow at long intervals or whose flowers are not suitable for reproduction. A healthy plant is bent into the ground with a node and kept below the soil with a secured peg while the free end is tied to a strong support. After a while at the node,
new shoots arise from the ground when the rootings are firm, the peg portion is separated from the parent plant e.g grape vine, ixora and bougainvillea. Grafting here there a small branch with a bud (scion) is cut off and another growing plant (a stock is inserted into the plant and both are fused an tied togethers and it grows to form a new plant examples are citrus and other domestic trees. Adventages of vegetative propagation Some plants do not produce viable seeds only through vegetative propagation When new plants are produced they require less attention than plants raised from seeds. They do not depend on pollination and dispersal agents Parents produce young plants only when environmental conditions are favourable. Desirable qualities in parent plants are retained. Their development is rapid and unfavourably conditions are over come by the young plant. Fruit and flower formation do occur earlier than those raised from seeds.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Environment
Tackling Cross Border Human Trafficking Through Partnership
MISS Queen Ebimaho, an 18-year-old Nigerian girl from Edo, met her untimely death on August 24, just few months after she arrived in Abidjan, in search of greener pastures. She was stabbed to death in mysterious circumstances. The suspects and the person who brought her to Abidjan are freely walking the streets of Abidjan. Also, recently, another Nigerian girl, Miss Erherha Eguono, narrowly escaped death while trying to escape from her traffickers. Eguono, who hails from Delta, was assisted to come to Abidjan by a Nigerian, identified as Chinedu Felix, at a price. Eguono had rejected further conditions imposed on her by Chinedu and left her room in a brothel in Portbouet, an Abidjan suburb. She was hit by a taxi driver who never stopped to know whether his victim was dead or alive. Chinedu has been arrested, while the 22-year-old lady is battling with pains from injuries she sustained in the accident. Eguono said she decided to run away after she was asked to pay huge sums to a woman before being freed to operate independently and “make her own money’’. “We agreed to come to
Abidjan but how I reached here is not known to me. Again, I gave him money to bring me here, why should I pay to stay, am I a slave?’’ she asked. Ebimaho and Eguono are just two out of many Nigerian ladies who have met misfortunes after being trafficked out of the country in search of greener pastures in Cote d’Ivoire. Many have died unreported and many repatriated to Nigeria after several wasted years. Many still hang on with the hope that better days are ahead. Trafficking of Nigerians is not limited to ladies, as many Nigerian young men have been misled into the world of uncertainties. In September, a Nigerian, Bethel Chima, ran amok in a police station in Abidjan, chasing policemen on duty with cutlass. Chima had lived in Cote d’Ivoire for about eight years but started behaving abnormally three years ago. When visited at the Central University Hospital, CoCody, where he was receiving treatment, he spoke incoherently. Chima said that his intention was never to live in Abidjan permanently. “I wanted to go to Europe, I was brought here with the intention of processing my
papers to continue but since then, it has not been possible and I no longer see the man that brought me here,’’ he said. Mr Bassey Akanyene, Head of Nigerian Mission in Cote d’Ivoire, said many Nigerians were abusing the free
of the country. “As an embassy, our hands are tied to a large extent, as you know there is no law banning prostitution,’’ Akanyene said. He said the embassy had remained committed towards protecting the rights of
businesses,’’ he added. Mr. Musa Asemota, President, Esan Family for the Promotion and Protection of Peoples’ Rights, an Abidjanbased non-governmental organisation, described the involvement of Nigerians in human trafficking and prostitution as embarrassing. “Government needs to do something. I have always called for officials of the
movement policy in the West African sub-region. “As Nigerians, they have the liberty to travel within the region just as nationals of other ECOWAS states but it is good for our citizens to engage in legitimate businesses and conduct themselves in manners that will not damage the image
Nigerians residing in the country. “We are faced with stranded Nigerians every time, we do our best to ensure they go back home. “We have also constantly preached that Nigerians should respect the laws of the host country and do only legitimate
National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NATIP) to be posted to the borders and Nigerian embassies in the West African sub-region. “This will tackle the issues of arrests and prosecution of perpetrators; it will also foster stronger collaboration with
By AZUIKE OKEH
other law enforcement agents to tighten up border securities against traffickers,’’ he noted. Asemota, also called for the Federal Government’s collaboration with nongovernmental organizations to fight cross border trafficking. He said that the efforts being made over the years by private partners and nongovernmental organisations to check trafficking had remained largely unsuccessful due to lack of government’s backing. “ There are NGOs showing sincerity and commitment in the fight against trafficking in persons but they need the right support from government. “This is an issue that concerns all of us; every human being deserves to be respected and treated as one, trafficking is slavery. We all need to rise and stop the embarrassment this satanic act is causing us,’’ he stressed. Analysts say traffickers have used the free movement policy of ECOWAS to rip-off innocent Nigerians and dehumanise them. They say that the ugly development should be checked, through the combined efforts of government and other stakeholders in order to stop the nation from facing continued embarrassment due to the twin issues of crossborder trafficking and prostitution.
Demystifying The Ember Months MYTH is derived from the Greek word mythos, which means story or word. Various writers have defined myth in diverse ways William Bascom in his article “The forms of Faklore: Prose Narratives” defines myth as tales believed as true, usually sacred, set in the distant past or other worlds or parts of the world and with extra – human, inhuman, or heroic characters. It is from the foregoing that one would like to examine the age-long belief in the country that the so-called ‘ember’ months (referring to the last four months of the
year i.e September – December) are naturally tragic periods. This conviction has become so entrenched that various religious groups and other institutions often organize special prayer sessions with a view to warding – off the dangers associated with the ‘ember months’, so, it is not unusual to see faithful of the various religious engage in fervent spiritual warfare in a bid to dislodge blood sucking devils that are always on the prowl during these months. The reality, however, is that the so called ‘ember
By JENNIFER OGEDEGBE
months’ are not in any way different from other months just as it happens in other months of the year. Ascribing needless spiritual and mythical undertones to tragic happenings during the ‘ember months’ is nothing but the usual Nigerian way of trivializing serious issues instead of using methodical means to appraise matters of crucial public concerns. Rather than clothing the ‘ember months’ in a way of explaining dreadful events during these months,
therefore, which is more human than mythological, critical issues should be addressed, which also include issues of infrastructural needs of the nation. The truth is that there is usually an increase in the tempo of public, private and corporate activities during this period. This is the period when most public and corporate institutions organize end-of-year event that involve massive human movement. Many religious organizations also arrange
“Consequently, in a bid to be part of the various end-ofyear activities slated for the ‘ember month’, most people throw caution to the wind by disregarding critical safety issues, vehicles are driven in particularly reckless fashion, alcoholic drinks are consumed in amazing manner, social outings are organized with reckless abandon, while the atmosphere is often filled with unusual allure and jollity.”
various event to fit into this period of the year mostly as way of rounding off during the year. Consequently, in a bid to be part of the various end-ofyear activities slated for the ‘ember month’, most people throw caution to the wind by disregarding critical safety issues, vehicles are driven in particularly reckless fashion, alcoholic drinks are consumed in amazing manner, social outings are organized with reckless abandon, while the atmosphere is often filled with unusual allure and jollity. It is in the midst of this frenzied state that avoidable human blunder often result in diverse kinds of misfortune leaving in their trial sorrow, tears and blood. Perhaps, more importantly, relevant government agencies must step up enlightenment strategies to guarantee that ‘ember months’ crashes and other related tragedies are reduced to the barest minimum. The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, and the
Lagos State traffic Management authority, LASTMA, should be commended for their ‘ember months’ safety strategies. In Lagos and adjoining states. However, there is a need for them to intensify efforts in this direction while more relevant government agencies should also come on board the ‘ember months’ re-orientation and re-awareness project. Currently, the Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy is embarking on an ‘ember month’s responsiveness campaign across the state. Objective is to change the attitude of the people toward these months and offer key safety tips. In concluding, it is essential tore-affirm that ‘ember months’ are just like all other months. If only we could be modest in our approach to the months, we would certainly avoid the dangers and hiccups usually connected to them. One thing is sure, nothing is wrong with the ‘ember months’ if only we could rid ourselves of what is wrong with us.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
International Fighting Near Damascus Kills Over 70 DAMASCUS - Fierce Rebels, Troops clashes between regime troops and rebels near an opposition stronghold east of Syria’s capital Damascus has killed more than 70 combatants, a monitoring group reported yesterday. Saturday’s fighting in the Eastern Ghouta region killed 28 jihadists of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and the Al-Nusra Front, 26 fighters from the Free Syrian Army, and 18 soldiers, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Also killed were five socalled citizen-journalists — members of the public who have taken to reporting on Syria’s conflict in which more than 120,000 people have
died since March 2011. Eastern Ghouta, a ring of suburbs besieged by the army for months, was targeted in an August chemical attack that the US and other world powers blamed on President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. As part of a deal to head off US military strikes,
Damascus has agreed to destroy its entire chemical weapons arsenal. Syria is cooperating with the disarmament operation being carried out by international experts, who have reported that the entire chemical arsenal has been sealed, awaiting destruction.
KABUL - Afghan president Hamid Karzai said yesterday the United States needed to bring peace to Afghanistan before he would sign a security deal which will enable Washington to keep troops in the country beyond next year. “If there is no peace then this agreement will bring
with winter storm warnings through Saturday. In Texas, freezing rain and cold temperatures have already hampered travel and much of the “heavy stuff” will hit south of I-20, Harris said. Several traffic accidents were reported, including the
fatal crash late Friday that left several injured hurt in Vega, about 30 miles west Amarillo, and one that injured three members of singer Willie Nelson’s band when their bus struck a pillar on Interstate 30 near Sulphur Springs, about 75 miles
northeast of Dallas. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for much of the Texas Panhandle until Monday morning, while the Dallas-Fort Worth area was under a winter storm warning until Monday.
misfortune to Afghanistan,” Karzai said in his closing remarks to the Loya Jirga assembly of elders and dignitaries. “Peace is our precondition. America should bring us peace and then we will sign it.” The president did not elaborate, but has previously said that a free and fair election is needed to guarantee peace in the country. The Loya Jirga was convened to decide on the pact, but Karzai cast the entire process in doubt by saying he would refuse to sign it until after a presidential election scheduled for April 2014. The United States has repeatedly said it cannot wait beyond the end of this year.
JERUSALEM — Israel’s prime minister harshly condemned the international community’s nuclear deal with Iran yesterday, calling it a “historic mistake” and saying he was not bound by the agreement. Speaking to his Cabinet, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the world had become a “more dangerous place” as a result of the deal and reiterated a long-standing threat to use military action against Iran if needed, declaring that Israel “has the right and the duty to defend itself by itself.” Israel believes Iran is trying to develop a nuclear weapon, and in the weeks leading up to Sunday’s agreement, Netanyahu had warned the emerging deal was insufficient. He had called for increased pressure on Iran, and warned that any relief from economic sanctions would make Iran less willing to compromise during a coming, six-month period aimed at reaching a final agreement. Netanyahu told his Cabinet that Sunday’s deal gave Iran much-needed relief from the sanctions, but left most of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure intact. In particular, he cited Iran’s continued ability to enrich uranium, a key step in making a nuclear bomb.
“What was reached last night in Geneva is not a historic agreement, it is a historic mistake,” Netanyahu said. “Today the world became a much more dangerous place because the most dangerous regime in the world made a significant step in obtaining the most dangerous weapons in the world.” Voicing what he called Israel’s right to self-defense, he said, “I want to clarify that Israel will not let Iran develop nuclear military capability.”
Earlier, Netanyahu’s Cabinet minister for intelligence issues, Yuval Steinitz, said the deal was based on “Iranian deception and (international) self-delusion.” Yet he and other officials said Israel would have to turn its focus to the outcome of the final negotiations. The exact details of Sunday’s deal, hammered out in Geneva between six world powers and
Iran, were not immediately known. Israel was not a participant in the talks but remained in close touch with the U.S. and other allies during the negotiations. In a statement, the White House called the nuclear agreement an “initial, sixmonth step.” Over the coming six months, the world powers and Iran will try to reach a final agreement that the White House said would ensure that Iran never develops a nuclear bomb.
Afghan President Hamid Karzai speaks during the opening of the Loya Jirga, in Kabul.
Peace Needed Before US Security Deal - Karzai
Stormy Weather Leaves 8 Dead
TEXAS, USA - Stormy weather across the West blamed in eight deaths moved steadily eastward, prompting alerts of wintry conditions in New Mexico and Texas. Forecasters said the storm system in the West would sweep across the South and toward the Atlantic coast the coming week, causing problems for holiday travelers. The “Nordic outbreak” will “produce a mixed bag of wily weather that will end up impacting much of the nation,” National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Harris said. With a winter storm warning in effect for parts of New Mexico, snow was falling across much of the state early Sunday and forecasters predicted up to 5 inches for many areas. The state Department of Transportation said motorists on several major roadways, including parts of Interstate 40, faced difficult driving conditions because of packed snow and ice, while some roads in the south were closed. Low temps were predicted to be mainly in the 20s statewide. Station KOB reported strong winds and near whiteout conditions late Saturday night along a stretch of I-40, about 80 miles west of Albuquerque. Parts of the state had already been hit with snow and freezing rain that caused a rollover accident that killed a 4-year-old girl in the
eastern part of the state. Three other storm-related deaths were reported Saturday in a crash in the Texas Panhandle involving nearly a dozen vehicles. In California, where the storm system hit first, prompting flooding and water rescues in recent days, three deaths have been linked to the storms since Thursday, as authorities found one body near downed power lines, one man crashed his vehicle into a tree and a woman was killed when a tree fell on a parked car. In Arizona, firefighters recovered the body of a man who was swept away by high waters Friday in the Santa Cruz River in the southern part of the state. The storm already has affected much of the West, causing hundreds of rollover accidents and prompting officials to cancel events and close roads. In Nevada, snow in high elevations temporarily bogged down travel. In Arizona, more than 8,000 cyclists competed Saturday in rainy conditions in the annual El Tour de Tucson. One cyclist died in a collision with a vehicle, but there was no immediate indication that the accident was storm related. Also, high school football games, soccer tournaments and parades were cancelled across the state. Forecasters said parts of both California and Arizona could expect severe weather
Israeli Leader Calls Iran Deal ‘Historic Mistake’
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
International Mali Goes To Polls Amidst Threat Of Violence BAMAKO - Malians voted yesterday in parliamentary elections intended to cap the troubled west African nation’s return to democracy but overshadowed by the threat of Islamist reprisals. The polls mark Mali’s first steps to recovery after it was plunged into chaos by a military coup in March last year, finalising a process begun with the election of its first post-conflict president in August. Some 6.5 million Malians are eligible to cast ballots for a new national assembly, with more than 1,000 candidates running for 147 seats. But voting takes place amid an upsurge in violence by AlQaeda-linked rebels who stalk the vast northern desert, an ever-present danger to French and African troops who are tasked with providing security for the election alongside the Malian army. French security forces witnessed their first attack in the capital Bamako on Friday, when a police officer working with the army was lucky to escape serious injury after a gunman believed to be influenced by Islamists opened fire on him. A day earlier militants had shelled the northern city of Gao, and although their rockets fell harmlessly short of the main urban centre, the attack underlined the continuing security threat. Al-Qaeda-linked insurgents ousted by French and African troops in January from the northern towns they had occupied last year resumed their deadly insurgency on September 28, after a lull of several months. Since then, a dozen civilians as well as Malian and Chadian soldiers in the United Nations’ MINUSMA peacekeeping mission have been killed in the country’s vast desert north. Much of the worry ahead of the polls has been focused on the largely lawless region of Kidal, occupied for five months by ethnic Tuareg separatists until a ceasefire accord signed in June allowed in the Malian army. In a grisly reminder for the West of the ongoing security crisis, Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) on November 2 kidnapped and shot dead two French radio journalists who had come to Kidal, the capital of the region, 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) northeast of Bamako. UN peacekeepers, the Malian army and French troops are tasked with ensuring voters’ safety in the region, the stronghold of the National
Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA). Malians are voting for a new parliament following the 2012 coup that toppled democratically elected president Amadou Toumani Toure and created an opening that allowed the MNLA and groups allied to Al-Qaeda to seize northern Mali. A UN peacekeeping mission expected eventually to number more than 12,000 troops is charged with ensuring security as Mali rebuilds, allowing France to withdraw all but 1,000 of the 4,500 troops it sent to its former colony. The three-week election campaign never caught fire in Mali, and analysts are predicting a lower turnout than the 50 percent achieved in the presidential election won by former prime minister Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.
People dance at the political meeting of Malian RPDM party candidate for Mali’s legislative elections, Madou Hidara and Chaka Cisse in Bamako weekend.
Thai Capital Tense As Political Rivals Rally BANGKOK - Tens of thousands of anti-government demonstrators massed in Bangkok yesterday, with a major rally scheduled later by their rivals, as Thailand faces its most significant political street action since bloody protests in 2010. Organisers said 100,000 antigovernment protesters had gathered by yesterday afternoon, while thousands of pro-government “Red Shirts” were expected to mobilise later at a suburban football stadium in support of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s crisis-hit administration. Both groups have vowed to remain in the capital overnight as tension rises in a city which has seen several bouts of unrest since Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra — Yingluck’s brother — was deposed in a military coup seven years ago. Authorities said they expect opposition protesters to try to march on parliament and Government House on Monday, but vowed to show restraint. “We will not use force and we will try to avoid any casualties,” police spokesman Piya Utayo told AFP, estimating the antigovernment rally to be at least 30,000-strong. The Thai capital has already faced weeks of oppositionbacked rallies sparked by an amnesty bill that could have allowed the return of Thaksin from self-imposed exile — and pardoned those responsible for a deadly military crackdown on his Red Shirt supporters. The bill was rejected by the senate, but anti-government protesters have remained on the streets and are now trying to
topple the government, which they say acts as a stooge for Thaksin. Aerial footage showed tens of thousands of protesters crammed into the streets leading to the city’s Democracy Monument, which has become the focus of the anti-government protests. Addressing the rally, protest leader Satit Wongnongtaey hailed the strong turnout for the so-called “People’s Day” rally, with many demonstrators arriving from the provinces. “How can this government survive? How can the Thaksin system survive?” he said to applause from the crowd.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei leads Eid-al-Fitr prayers at Tehran University recently.
Iran, 6 World Powers Clinch Nuclear Deal
GENEVA - Iran and six world powers reached a breakthrough deal early yesterday to curb Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for limited sanctions relief, in what could be the first sign of an emerging rapprochement between the Islamic state and the West. Aimed at ending a dangerous standoff, the agreement between Iran and the United States, France, Germany, Britain, China and Russia was clinched after more than four days of tortuous negotiations in the Swiss city of Geneva. Halting Iran’s most sensitive nuclear work, it was designed as a package of confidencebuilding steps to ease decades of tensions and confrontation and banish the specter of a Middle East war over Tehran’s nuclear aspirations. But Iran’s arch foe Israel
denounced it as a “bad deal” and said it would not be bound by it. EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, who has been coordinating talks with Iran on behalf of the major powers, said it created time and space for talks aimed at reaching a comprehensive solution to the dispute. “This is only a first step,” Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told a news conference. “We need to start moving in the direction of restoring confidence, a direction in which we have managed to move against in the past.” Hard-pressed by sanctions, many Iranians were elated by the easing of tensions and prospect of economic
improvement. U.S. President Barack Obama said that if Iran did not meet its commitments during a sixmonth period, the United States would turn off sanctions relief and “ratchet up the pressure”. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warmly welcomed the interim agreement and urged the governments concerned “to do everything possible to build on this encouraging start”. But Israel was unhappy. “This is a bad deal. It grants Iran exactly what it wanted both a significant easing in sanctions and preservation of the most significant parts of its nuclear program,” an official in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanhayu’s office said. Israeli officials however stopped short of threatening unilateral military action that
could further isolate the Jewish state and imperil its alliance with Washington, saying more time was needed to assess the agreement. The West fears that Iran has been seeking to develop a nuclear weapons capability. The Islamic Republic denies that, saying its nuclear program is a peaceful energy project. The United States said the agreement halted progress on Iran’s nuclear program, including construction of the Arak research reactor, which is of special concern for the West as it could yield potential bomb material. It would neutralize Iran’s stockpile of uranium refined to a fissile concentration of 20 percent, which is a close step away from the level needed for weapons, and calls for intrusive U.N. nuclear inspections, a senior U.S. official said.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
International Features
Abortion Law: Supreme Court Splits A New Texas law requiring doctors performing abortions to have hospital admitting privileges has forced more than a dozen clinics in the state to close. The case is on a path back to the Supreme Court. The US Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to block a tough new Texas law that has forced more than a dozen abortion clinics in the state to close their doors. The justices split 5 to 4 on whether to block the law. The action came in a controversial case over abortion restrictions that is likely to find its way quickly back to the high court in the months ahead. In the meantime, the law will remain in full effect pending an appeal at the New Orleans-based Fifth US Circuit Court of Appeals. That court is set to hear oral arguments in January. The new law, which took effect last month, requires any physician performing an abortion at a Texas clinic to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of the clinic. Obtaining such privileges is difficult and the new requirement has caused roughly one-third of the state’s abortion clinics to close their doors while leaving an estimated 20,000 Texas women without such services, according to abortion rights advocates. “This law is blocking women in Texas from
On Hearing Case
getting a safe and legal medical procedure that has been their constitutionally protected right for 40
recent closures of abortion clinics, even if temporary, prove that [the Texas law] does have a major impact in protecting women and
last month that the new Texas law was overly restrictive of a woman’s right to obtain an abortion. After declaring the law
their unborn children from substandard care at abortion clinics.” The issue before the Supreme Court was whether the justices should intervene in the case to block the Texas law from being enforced while the expedited appeal to the Fifth Circuit is underway. Abortion rights advocates had asked the courts to uphold an injunction issued by a federal judge who ruled
unconstitutional, the judge issued an injunction blocking enforcement of the statute pending any appeals. Texas officials appealed the decision to the Fifth Circuit and asked the appeals court to lift the federal judge’s injunction. The appeals court did so. Abortion providers in Texas filed an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court, asking the justices to preserve the status quo
in Texas so that abortion clinics could remain open during the ongoing appeals.
President Barack Obama
years,” said Cecil Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, in a statement. “This is outrageous and unacceptable,” she said. Elizabeth Graham, director of Texas Right to Life, hailed the high court’s action as a significant step forward. “This ruling signals that Texas is on the verge of a decisive legal pro-life victory,” she said. “The
“Obtaining such privileges is difficult and the new requirement has caused roughly one-third of the state’s abortion clinics to close their doors while leaving an estimated 20,000 Texas women without such services, according to abortion rights advocates.”
In declining the block the law, Justice Antonin Scalia said that the appeals court’s earlier decision was based on its conclusion that Texas officials were likely to prevail in the case, with the new statute being upheld as constitutional. The justices owed deference to the appeals court’s conclusion, he said. “It would flout core principles of federalism by mandating postponement of a state law without asserting that the law is even probably unconstitutional,” Justice Scalia wrote in a four-page order. “Reasonable minds can perhaps disagree about whether the Court of Appeals should have granted a stay in this case,” he said. “But there is no doubt that the applicants have not carried their
heavy burden of showing that doing so was a clear violation of accepted legal standards.” In a dissent, Justices Stephen Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sonia Sotomayor, and Elena Kagan said they would have taken action to block the new Texas law. Justice Breyer, writing for the dissenters, said that the federal judge’s initial injunction would have preserved the status quo, allowing clinics to remain open and serve women in their communities as the litigation continued. “By putting Texas’ new law into immediate effect, it instantly leaves 24 counties in the Rio Grande Valley… with no abortion provider because those providers do not have admitting privileges and are unlikely to get them,” Breyer wrote in a 5-page dissent. He added that the new law “may substantially reduce access to safe abortions elsewhere in Texas.” Breyer said that the underlying legal issue concerning the constitutionality of the Texas law “is a difficult question.” “Lawmakers in Texas and other states have passed laws like this for the sole purpose of limiting access to safe, legal abortion, not promote women’s health,” Terri Burke, executive director of the ACLU of Texas, said in a statement. Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights, said the Texas law was “ u n w o r k a b l e , unconscionable and unconstitutional.” “The shattering stories of women turned away at clinic doors and denied their constitutional right to abortion are already numerous, and they multiply every single day this underhanded law is enforced,” Ms. Northup said.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Healthy Living
Managing Diabetes Through Diet By ABIEMWENSE MORU
MR. Linus Nwokoro, an Abuja based businessman, was diagnosed of diabetes two years ago and was placed on drug therapy by his doctor. He also consulted a dietician who recommended appropriate diet for him. “The dietician asked me questions which I answered; and she brought out a cup and gave me measurement of food that I should be taking and placed me on diet,’’ he said. Nwokoro said while he was on the new diet, he continued with his drug therapy, adding that he later stopped taking the drugs while continuing with his diet. “I went back for test and the result showed that I had been cured; but I am still on diet,’’ he said. Mrs. Tina Afe, a civil servant who lives in Abuja, said she had been managing diabetes with the help of her doctor and a dietician. She said that she takes her drugs as prescribed, which helped her to maintain a healthy lifestyle and cope with the ailment. Afe said that the “home remedy” which she was taught by her dietician was really working. “But I make sure that I also visit my doctor whenever the need arises,’’ she stressed. The testimonies of Nwokoro and Afe are indications that diabetes is curable with correct medication and diet.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Experts say that uncontrolled diabetes, over time, could leads to serious damage to many of the body’s systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels. Records from the World Health Organisation show that 366 million people died of diabetes in 2011. The disease was projected to kill 552 million people by 2030, making it the seventh leading cause of death. It was to raise awareness on the havoc of diabetes that Nov.14 of every year was declared World Diabetes Day (WDD). “Diabetes Education and Prevention,’’ is the WDD theme for the period 2009 to 2013 Hajiya Jummai Abdul, a dietician at the Wuse General Hospital, Abuja, said that garden egg and cucumber are the best snacks for diabetic patients. “Patients should take all classes of nutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and vegetables, such as pumpkin, spinach and steamed cabbage, ’’ she said. She, however, warned that patients should be mindful of the quantity they take. “The quantity of food to be
A HEART attack happens when the flow of oxygen suddenly becomes blocked and the heart can’t get oxygen.
Often, people who experience the symptoms of a heart attack don’t realise the severity of the situation; some see it as indigestion and
taken by a patient depends on the Body Mass Index (IBM) of an individual and the blood sugar level.’’ Abdul said that there should be an interval of four to five hours between each meal.
drinks, as well as fatty, sugary and fried foods. She listed other foods not good for diabetics to include sweet fruits, sweet confectioneries and pepper soup. Abdul recommended a
Programmes, Education Development Foundation for Excellence, a nongovernmental organisation, said that moderate weight loss could reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. According to her, increasing consumption of unhealthy diet posed risks to
“If the patient is hungry, he should go for garden eggs and cucumber which serve as the best snacks for him. “Patients should have their breakfast at least from 7.00 a.m. to 8.00 a. m., lunch at 1.00 p.m. and dinner at 7.00 p.m.,’’ she said. Abdul warned patients against the consumption of pastries, alcoholic and soft
little quantity of unripe pawpaw and grape which, she noted, cannot increase patient’s blood sugar level. She said that treatment duration vary from individual to individual, adding that patients’ health condition would improve at least in six months if properly managed. Dr Nana Chidi-Emmanuel, Director, Operations and
Type 2 diabetics. “Type 2 diabetes is a disorder characterised by high blood glucose in the context of insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency.’’ Chidi-Emmanuel said that diabetes was on the increase because the rate of overweighed and obsessed persons had also increased.
The director said that some individuals, including overweighed, obsessed and women who have diabetes in pregnancy, were more at risk. She said that people with high blood pressure or high cholesterol and over 45years-old were also at risk. “Regular physical activity would help to reduce fat deposits in the heart, liver and the abdomen of people with Type 2 diabetes,’’ the director added. Chidi-Emmanuel recommended the consumption of healthy foods, less fat and more fibres like fruits and vegetables, whole grain and small amount of bread. She, however, said that Type 2 diabetes accounted for about 95 per cent of diagnosed diabetes in adults. “Several studies had shown that healthy eating and regular physical activity with prescribed medication could help control health complications in Type 2 diabetes,’’ the director noted. Although experts have said that diabetes is a leading cause of death, they also recommended that proper diet could help reduce deaths from the disease. Governments and other stakeholders should, therefore, mount intense public enlightenment to educate the public, especially diabetics on the need to consume appropriate diets.
Spotting A Heart Attack? conclude that if they lie down for a while they will be fine.
By RUTH ATSEGOR
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEART ATTACK The symptoms of a heart attack are as follows: Lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, shortness of breadth, anxiety, nervousness, cold, sweaty skin, paleness or pallor, increased or irregular heart rate. WHAT TO DO If any of these symptoms is noticed call 911 immediately; try to stay calm and have the person sit or lie down loosen clothing around the chest area. The all dispatcher will assist you with simple
instructions which may include asking if the persons is taking any heart medications, or have you administed aspirin not (Ibuprofen or naproxen)
while waiting for an ambulance. Aspirin can help by thinning the blood and allowing more blood to reach the heart. The dispatcher will also instruct you with CPR instructions if the patient has no breath or pulse beats.
“The symptoms of a heart attack are as follows: Lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, shortness of breadth, anxiety, nervousness, cold, sweaty skin, paleness or pallor, increased or irregular heart rate.”
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Aluko Not For Sale - Hull Boss
HULL City boss Steve Bruce has said Nigeria forward Sone Aluko is not for sale. The 24-year-old forward has turned down Hull City’s offers referred to as ‘fabulous offer’ by the team to prolong his stay at
the KC Stadium. The discussion on his contract extension has stalled due to the Achilles injury which will sideline the Nigerian until February. Hull are also having to fend off mounting speculation
Sone Aluko
suggesting that they will need to cash in on the former Rangers man in the New Year in order to avoid losing him on a free next summer. Bruce, though, is adamant that no sale will be sanctioned and hopes an unfortunate injury ends up playing into his hands. He told the Hull Daily Mail: “I’m still hopeful that we can do something (with the contract). “The most disappointing thing is getting injured. He could do without that when he’s talking about a new contract. “We’ll still talk to him and we’re still optimistic. I’ve got no intention of letting him go anywhere in January. “I don’t think he’s going to be fit in January so I don’t see any prospect of anyone coming in for him.” Bruce is also expecting to receive full backing from his board when it comes to Aluko’s future, adding: “People are criticising my owners over the name change but the most important thing for me is if I turn around and say ‘We’re not selling Sone Aluko at whatever cost’, then he (Assem Allam) won’t do it. I’m confident about that. “I can’t see any reasoning in that one. I can’t see us selling Aluko, even if he doesn’t sign a new contract. “I can’t see it unless it’s ridiculous money, and I can’t see anyone paying ridiculous money for someone who’s injured and played a handful of games since last Christmas.”
Winger Traore Latest Product Of Barcelona Academy ADAMA Traore became the latest player to roll off the Barcelona academy production line when he made his first-team debut at the age of 17 years and 10 months in Saturday’s 4-0 La Liga win at home to Granada. A pacy and powerful winger
of Mali origin who was born near Barcelona, Traore came on for Brazil forward Neymar in the 81st minute at the Nou Camp, becoming the eighthyoungest player to represent the Spanish champions. Fellow academy graduates
Adama Traore
Goals Make Giroud Stronger,
ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger believes that Olivier Giroud’s double against Southampton confirmed the France striker’s growing confidence. “We have improved our Giroud set his side on course defensive stability. After an for a 2-0 victory that moved international break, you have them four points clear at the head always two challenges: one is to of the Premier League table when he dispossessed Saints goalkeeper Artur Boruc and scored mid-way through the first half of Saturday’s game. The forward then stepped up to convert a late penalty, taking his tally of goals for the season to seven in the league and 10 in all competitions. “Other strikers will tell you, ‘I am not obsessed by scoring goals,’ but if they don’t, they are sick! It is a relief on their shoulders,” said Wenger. “I believe as well that Olivier didn’t expect himself to score so many from the start of the season, but it can only boost his confidence.” Wenger added: “Olivier is a positive character who is always ready for a battle. “He is maybe completely Oliver Giroud different to the rest of the team in that he gives us so much with his physical presence, with his link play, which he has improved tremendously. He has the mental WAYNE Rooney has hit back qualities and a positive attitude.” at Sir Alex Ferguson over claims The win ensured Arsenal he was unfit last season — bounced back after suffering the insisting he has the stats to prove disappointment of defeat by otherwise. Manchester United immediately Ferguson’s successor David before the international break. Moyes and England boss Roy “I am convinced that after a Hodgson have both lauded break like that, the character is Rooney’s fitness this season, tested,” Wenger added. with the forward hitting nine “Can you win when you have goals for club and country. to in a season like that, straight However in his new away again after a big defeat to autobiography, released last Manchester United? That was really at stake for us.
Says Arsenal Manager Wenger get the team to focus again as a team, because we have been spread all over the world and you have very little time to get
the focus point right. “The second is physical, because they all come back in different levels of fatigue; some have not trained a lot. The first point we got right; the team were highly focused. We suffered a bit physically, but overall the concentration was there.” Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino offered Boruc his full backing following the Poland goalkeeper ’s embarrassing mistake. Boruc was caught in possession after rejecting the chance to clear first time when he received Nathaniel Clyne’s back-pass and Pochettino said: “It’s true that we were unlucky when we conceded that goal. “There is nothing more to analyse. We all saw what happened and we can draw our own conclusions and we have to just move on. It happened. “I fully support all of my players. These things can happen
in football. We have to keep on looking forward and keep on working the way we have been working.” Pochettino refused to attach any blame to the former Celtic man and said that Boruc’s mistake would make him a better player. “It’s the way that we play,” said the Argentine. “That’s what I demand of him and what I demand of all my players. There is nothing more I can say. It’s just a bad day. “I think footballers need to be able to learn from these mistakes. They need to be able to live with these mistakes and know these things can happen, accept them and move on. “And from our point of view, we just offer our complete and 100 percent support for him. And keep talking to him, working with the entire team and moving on.”
Sir Alex Ferguson’s autobiography sees the former Man Utd boss stay loyal to the people he trusts. Read Where will Sir Alex Ferguson’s new autobiography rate among the best/worst football books? Read Ferguson also claimed Rooney handed in a transfer request in April. The player himself denies it but the situation led to a standoff with the club over the summer as
Rooney sought a move to Chelsea. But even with the former Everton forward appearing to be settled once again at United, he has now taken another swipe at his former manager. “My fitness levels are the same as last season — I’ve got the stats, so I know,” said Rooney, who played 90 minutes for England against Chile last week and 70 against Germany on Tuesday.
who have debuted at a younger age include Argentine World Player of the Year Lionel Messi at 17 years three months and 22 days and Spanish forward Bojan Krkic at 17 years and 18 days. “It’s not normal that a lad of 17 years has the chance to train and play with the first team,” coach Gerardo Martino told a news conference. “He has been working with us the past week and we saw an opportunity for him to be included on the bench and play a few minutes,” he added. Traore started the season playing for Barca’s youth team before winning a place in the B side, which plays in the Spanish second division. He missed one chance to score against Granada three minutes from time and told reporters he was “filled with great pride” at playing for the first team in the Nou Camp after so many years of work in the academy. “I am here thanks to the coaches I have had and to the team mates,” he said. “It’s easy playing with these players and they give you a lot of confidence.” Vicenc Martinez is the youngest Barca first-team debutant at 16 years 10 months and five days back in October 1941.
Lyon Held By Valenciennes OLYMPIQUE Lyonnais have been held to a 1-1 draw by Valenciennes on Saturday evening in matchday 14 of the Ligue 1. After two back to back victories including a prestigious win away against arch-enemy Saint-Etienne, Rémi Garde’s men could not manage to extend their series but still climb in 6th position in the standings while Valenciennes remain in the danger zone. The locals opened the score just after the quarter of an hour mark by Bafétimbi Gomis, who headed home a Henri Bedimo’s cross following a good work by Yoann Gourcuff. But the visitors came back into the game in the second half, thanks to the equalizer by JeanChristophe Bahebeck in the 51st minute. Lyon missed several opportunities in that game and can have some regrets despite the good show displayed by Valenciennes. Maxime Gonalons and his teammates are now 15 points away from leaders Paris SaintGermain ahead of a tricky trip to the capital next Sunday.
Rooney Rejects Fergie Fitness Claim month, Ferguson said Rooney struggled to maintain his performance levels over 90 minutes and often became tired in matches, claiming: “Rooney has great qualities about him but they could be swallowed up by a lack of fitness.” Last season the England international struggled for form, and was dropped for United’s crunch second-leg Champions League last-16 defeat against Real Madrid.
“Every footballer gets stats from each training session and game — and I go through them every day. It’s the same system with England. “It’s something which you can monitor in terms of how much work you’re doing and sometimes you do need a bit of a rest, so that’s what we do. And mine are the same stats as last season — but obviously it’s been noticed this season, that’s all.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013
Ancelotti Plays Down Ronaldo Injury REAL Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti played down the injury-enforced substitution of Cristiano Ronaldo during Saturday’s 5-0 win over Almeria at the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterraneos, insisting it was only “a little problem”. The Portugal forward, fresh from almost single-handedly getting his country to the World Cup finals with a hattrick in the midweek play-off second leg against Sweden, opened the scoring for Real with less than three minutes on the clock before signalling to the bench early in the second half that he could not continue. However, with attention now turning to Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray at the Bernabeu, Ancelotti did not
seem overly concerned with the 28-year-old’s fitness issue. “He had a problem with his hamstring. I don’t think it’s a big problem. It doesn’t hurt him,” the Italian said on realmadrid.com after the match. “His muscle is a bit tired but I think he’ll be better soon. “Tomorrow he’ll have some tests but we think that it’s not an important problem. Cristiano started the game with a goal but then he had a little problem.”
Ronaldo himself, who now has 35 goals in his last 25 appearances in all competitions, said on Spanish radio network Cadena SER: “It was a blow - it’s nothing special.” There remained only one goal in it until after the hour mark, but, despite Ronaldo’s
absence, the floodgates opened in the final half-hour, with further goals from Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, Isco and substitute Alvaro Morata sealing the rout. The victory ended Almeria’s three-game winning run in emphatic
style, and ensured Real ended the day still six points behind Barcelona after the Primera Division leaders’ 4-0 triumph over Granada in the early kick-off. “I think it was a good game,” Ancelotti said. “We didn’t concede any goals and that’s important.
AC Millan Fans Trap Players ANGRY AC Milan supporters have reportedly prevented players leaving the San Siro and demanded a meeting with the team after the 1-1 draw with Genoa. Milan slipped further down the Serie A table after two early strikes to Kaka and Genoa’s Alberto Gilardino split the spoils. Genoa goalkeeper Mattia Perin was the hero on the day, repelling all of Milan’s attacks including a Mario Balotelli penalty. The result means that Massimiliano Allegri’s men have now gone five matches in the league without a win. And according to reports,
supporters from San Siro’s Curva Sud blocked the exits following the full-time whistle, demanding talks with Allegri and the players about the club’s current plight. “These players don’t know what sacrifice is. They have so much money, while people like us work hard for them,” a Curva Sud spokesperson told reporters. The fans had earlier unfurled a banner proclaiming “Let’s meet by the exit you unworthy lot”, while after the match, Kaka and Christian Abbiati reportedly tried to meet a section of the supporters.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Bayern On Top In Germany After Dortmund Rout
EUROPEAN champions Bayern Munich took a significant step towards retaining the Bundesliga title with their first win at rivals Borussia Dortmund in four years.
Blanc Lauds ‘Born Competitor’ PARIS Saint-Germain Blanc said. “Behind every Ibra manager Laurent Blanc has great player is a great hailed the club’s striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a “born competitor”. Ibrahimovic overcame the disappointment of missing out on a spot at the World Cup with Sweden to help PSG move seven points clear at the top of Ligue 1 with a 3-0 victory over Reims.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The 32-year-old rounded off the win with his ninth goal of the season after earlier strikes from Lucas Moura and Jeremy Menez. And after the match, Blanc lauded Ibrahimovic for his killer instinct. “You [the media] assumed Ibra would be affected,”
“The team all played well. We have to carry on this way because we are doing well right now. We’ve had a lot of problems because of international games and today was a different game and we should be happy.” He was not entirely satisfied, however, adding: “In the last 15 minutes of the first half we lost control of the game a little. We played a bit more slowly, but those are just small details. “We could have scored a second goal in the first half. We lost a bit of confidence in those 15 minutes, but nothing else.” Ancelotti had to reshuffle his midfield due to an injury to Sami Khedira and was pleased with how Isco and Asier Illarramendi stepped up. “Illarra has worked really well over the last two weeks. He’s in good shape, the same as Isco, who has worked very well too,” the 54-year-old said. “We’ve made a few changes to put the players in a more comfortable position. Illarra and Xabi played very well and the team was really balanced especially because of the good work by these two.”
competitor. “This is a born competitor; when he finds the competition, he is there, he wants to win, he wants to score and he does it in the end.” The victory at Reims stretches PSG’s unbeaten streak in the league to 25 games, but Blanc refuses to be carried away by the club’s form. “We came here with ambition and we have been able to dominate Reims,” he added. “People watch us hoping we lose. It will happen, but we will try to ensure it comes as late as possible. “There are periods when you sense that the players have mastered everything individually and are a collective force that can overcome any test. “It is a period that must be appreciated as a coach because there are others when it doesn’t work and you can’t win.”
Former Dortmund hero Mario Goetze came off the bench and produced a super shot to give Bayern the lead on 66 minutes before Arjen Robben and Thomas Mueller added to the 3-0 rout in the final five minutes of Saturday’s German Clasico. It was Bayern’s first Bundesliga win over Dortmund in seven attempts and extended Munich’s record unbeaten run in the German league to 38 matches in a repeat of May’s Champions League final. The result at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion left Bayern four points clear of Bayer Leverkusen, who replaced Dortmund in second place, while Pep Guardiola’s Munich are an ominous seven points ahead of Borussia. “We are very happy because we won against the best counter-attacking team in the world,” said Bayern coach Pep Guardiola. “In the first 15 minutes we played very well, but didn’t do so well at the end of the first-half. “We were clearly better in the second half, especially with Thiago, Mario Goetze, Toni Kroos and Philipp
Lahm.” Dortmund came into the game having suffered a double injury blow after both Germany defenders Mats Hummels and Marcel Schmelzer were ruled out with injury on Wednesday. Bayern, in contrast were missing only France winger Franck Ribery from their first-choice line-up and Guardiola could bring Goetze and Spain star Thiago Alcantara off the bench. Defending champions Bayern are at CSKA Moscow in the Champions League on Wednesday, but have already booked their place in the knock-out stages. Dortmund had their chances, with seven shots on goal compared to Bayern’s 10, but Marco Reus and Henrikh Mkhitaryan wasted clear chances while Bayern made theirs count. “We cannot overstate the win,” beamed goal-scorer Robben. “It was still 1-0 up until the 85th minute, it looks like a decisive win, but Dortmund had their chances. “We put the space we had to good effect and perhaps deserved to win. “As a young boy, you
dream of playing in stadiums like this.” Dortmund have no time to lick their wounds with Napoli next up on Tuesday in a game they must win to keep alive their dreams of reaching the Champions League’s knockout stages and are third in their group behind leaders Arsenal and Napoli. “Bayern changed their game in the second half and hit a few long balls, they were patient,” said Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp. “I believe that up until the 1-0, we had big chances, you have to put those away if you want to get back into a game like this.” Dortmund have had a few tough weeks, losing to Arsenal at home in the Champions League and this was their third straight defeat after also losing at Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga. “Games are decided by goals - and at the moment we’re not scoring the crucial ones,” said Dortmund captain Roman Weidenfeller. “The amount we lost by is ultimately irrelevant. “It’s a bitter defeat, as we played a good game over nearly 80 minutes and have nothing to show for it.”
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2014 World Cup
Mikel, Victor Moses, Emenike Tipped To Shine For Eagles VINCENT Enyeama has said he believes the class of Mikel Obi, Victor Moses and Emmanuel Emenike will propel Nigeria to glory at Brazil 2014. The African champions have qualified for their fifth World Cup and Enyeama has picked several players led by Chelsea midfielder Mikel to get the team to shine in Brazil next year. “I pray that Mikel Obi will be in his best shape and (Victor) Moses plus Emenike will all be in their true elements by the time the World Cup will start in Brazil,” Enyeama told Sporting Life in an interview. “These three men are those that we are banking on because if they are in top shape, they will help us to get a rhythm and also they make things happen. They make the difference in important matches.” Emenike has been the Eagles reliable goals machine, while Mikel and Moses have brought their quality to bear on the team since Nigeria won a third AFCON in South Africa in February. The Lille goalkeeper also singled out up and coming Lazio youngster Ogenyi Onazi, who has been on
superb form lately. “Onazi is also coming up greatly,” remarked the stand-
in Eagles skipper, who has also been on great form for title-chasing Lille in the French Ligue 1 this season. “I pray that they all stay injury-free and are in top shape ahead of the World
Cup.” Brazil 2014 will be Enyeama’s third World Cup after he took his chance at the 2002 World Cup group game against England.
Pillars Insists Coach Ganaru Still In Charge ceremonial Charity Cup final at the NFF AGA in Warri this coming weekend. Babaganaru has specially told MTNFootball.com he has quit Pillars after he was pushed out by some officials of the club. He said he will sign a contract with another club, Nasarawa United, on Monday after he agreed personal terms with them recently.
Mohammed Ganaru Vincent Enyeama
Rabiu Makes Injury Return For Kuban M I D F I E L D E R Mohammed Rabiu played his first match for his Russian side Kuban Kransnodar after recovering from a knee injury. The versatile player replaced Artur Tlisov in the 70th minute as Kuban lost 31 at Amkar Perm in the Russian Premier League. The Ghana international suffered a knee injury early September during a Europa League clash against St Gallen. Rabiu underwent surgery and recuperated early enough to join his teammates.
Mohammed Rabiu
The 23-year-old missed Ghana’s Brazil 2014 World Cup finals playoff encounters against Egypt. Rabiu’s recovery is a big boost for FC Kuban coach Dorinel Munteanu.
season have prompted calls for him to be included in the Spain squad, stroked the ball into the net past hastily-introduced replacement keeper Javi Jimenez. With an extra man, Villarreal created and squandered a host of chances before Bruno threaded a pass through to Uche in the 74th minute and he fired a clinical shot low into the corner. The pacy Nigerian then scored the goal of the game a minute from time when he netted a
spectacular overhead kick. Fourth-placed Villarreal, who spent a season in the second division last term and finished second behind Elche, have 27 points from 14 matches, seven behind Real Madrid in third after they thrashed promoted Almeria 5-0 on Saturday. Unbeaten leaders Barcelona and second-placed Atletico Madrid also recorded thumping wins, Barca beating Granada 4-0 at the Nou Camp and Atletico hammering Getafe 7-0 at the Calderon.
Ghana Qualify For FIFA U-17 WWC Finals GHANA qualified for fourth successive FIFA U17 World Cup finals after eliminating Equatorial Guinea on Saturday. The Black Maidens recorded a 3-2 in Malabo to seal a 5-2 aggregate win. The girls went into the game with a 2-0 lead from
the first-leg after beating their opponents in early November. Ghana became the first African side to win a medal at the FIFA U17 World Cup finals after bronze at the last edition in Azerbaijan. The 2014 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals will be hosted by Costa Rica.
Wilfred Ndidi Gets Genk Chance NIGERIA U20 defender Wilfred Ndidi has told MTNFootball.com he is thrilled he has got a chance
Uche, Bruno Inspire Villareal To Victory VILLARREAL maintained their impressive form since winning promotion back to La Liga when Ikechukwu Uche struck twice and captain Bruno Soriano scored a penalty in a 30 win at 10-man Levante yesterday. Levante goalkeeper Keylor Navas was shown a straight red card in the 10th minute at the Ciutat de Valencia stadium when he felled forward Uche in the penalty area. Midfielder Bruno, whose polished performances this
NIGERIA league champions Kano Pillars have insisted coach Mohammed Babaganaru has not quit the club. In a press statement by club spokesman Idris Malikawa made available to MTNFootball.com, Pillars said they are yet to receive any resignation letter from Babaganaru. Instead, they said the championship-winning coach has agreed personal terms with them and was expected back from a week’s casual leave to start preparation for the new season. Coaches Kabiru Baleria and Ibrahim Musa will take charge of Pillars for the
Wilfred Ndidi
to bag a deal at Belgian club Genk. “It’s great to be considered for a two-week assessment
by Genk. I hope to soon leave for Belgium,” said Ndidi, who featured for Nigeria at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Turkey in July. Ndidi, who has also featured for the country’s U17 team, impressed visiting scouts at a recent special tournament organised in Lagos. He was earlier slated to try out at another Belgian club, Club Brugge. In the meantime, another Nath Boys of Lagos promising prospect, Adebayo Ademelua, has gone on a short-term loan to Portuguese second division club Portimonense. Portimonense are second in the Portuguese second-tier league with 30 points from 15 matches, a point behind leaders Morierense. Ademelua combined with Ndidi in the heart of the back four when Nath Boys won the Lagos Junior League back-toback.
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CMYK
“TODAY, the standards of education have not only hit the dust, most campuses in our tertiary institutions are now gangster’s paradise, a terrible situation where cultism of various degrees and shapes has taken over proceedings. These ugly development in our educational system was equally fanned by inept, hopeless and criminally irresponsible military/civilian administrations in Nigeria” – Quoted in WHERE WE ARE (Page 91). Just like that Comrade Professor Festus Iyayi is no more on this physical plane. I really find it very difficult to believe. It is most tragic to note that Comrade Festus Iyayi was killed by agents of the ferocious ruling class in Nigeria while on active service to bring sanity to the educational system in Nigeria. The untimely death of Comrade Festus Iyayi on Tuesday November 12th 2013, in Lokoja area enroute Kano for a very important meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is most painful to me as an individual. It is sad because Comrade Festus Iyayi was a human being, genuinely concerned with the progress and fate of our country. Yes! Comrade Iyayi was a human being because he was very sensitive, concerned and humble about the affairs of his fellow men and women. I keep referring to him as a ‘Comrade’ because he saw anyone genuinely in the struggle to emancipate the masses from the satanic chains of oppression, poverty and repression as a Comrade. Since I became closed to him in 1995, he never addressed me in any other manner than: “Comrade Nowinta.” To lose Comrade Festus Iyayi the way it happened recently is like denying me of somebody I see as a big brother, a Comrade of no mean repute, a progressive personality and a humanist. I flowed closely the troubles he had with the government of General Ibrahim Babangida as a result of his presidency of the
became chairman, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) Edo State Chapter, in 1995, Comrade Festus Iyayi was President of the organization National Level. I learnt the meaning of
likes of Professor. Omotayo Olorode (a giant intellectual), Dr. Dipo Fashina (former ASUU President), Comrade Femi Falana (ExPresident of CDHR), Dr. Idowu Awopetu (a dogged fighter), late Comrade Ola Oni (encyclopedia of the
hard work, unrestrained commitment and absolute fearlessness in the “struggle” from Comrade Iyayi. He was a tireless worker, a devoted intellectual with a heart full of gold. I made several trips and attended
struggle) to name a few that I learnt the doctrine of ‘superior arguments must prevail.’ As a man of gigantic principles, Comrade Festus Iyayi refused to go beyond the first constitutional tenure of the Committee for the
Mohammed Bello, Bode Steve Ekundayo etc that ‘Comrades’ are truly his real brothers. It was the type of undiluted love and comradeship which Comrade Iyayi showered on us that made me to chose Mrs. Grace Iyayi as mother of the Day when I
Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) in 1997. He quickly handed over the presidency of the CDHR to Comrade Femi Falana after a duly conducted Annual General Meeting, which I attended. Comrade Iyayi used to tell us - Felix Oriakhi, Kayode Olatunji,
wedded in March 2003. I really find it very difficult that Comrade Festus Iyayi, is gone. When the leadership of ASUU led by Dr. Fagge, its president came to the House of late Iyayi on a condolence visit, I was there. When Mrs. Iyayi saw Dr. Dipo Fashina
Iyayi: Demise Of A Colossus Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). I noted his bravery and intellectual content when he confronted Authorities of the University of Benin, that tried frantically to break his spirit for standing for what is right in the ivory towers in the
Late Comrade Festus Iyayi Federal Republic of Nigeria. Comrade Festus Iyayi looked unblinkingly eye ball to eye ball at the military apologists within the University of Benin and eventually triumphed when he was reinstated back to his job in the University. When I
numerous meetings with Comrade Iyayi; he loved driving and was quite very energetic. Comrade Iyayi was an ebullient debater; a man of infinite knowledge. He read quite a lot and was never tired of reading. It was while I was interacting closely with the
“Comrade Iyayi’s leadership of ASUU distinguished him as a revolutionary fighters for the best in the citadel of learning within out nation. His love and devotion to teaching and academic freedom is quite unprecedented. It was this great love for a sanitized educational system in Nigeria that dragged him to make a trip which finally consumed him on November 12th, 2013.”
among the entourage, she came close to him and started crying and saying: “Dipo, Dipo, Dipo.” That was how Comrade Iyayi used to address Comrade Dipo Fashina. It was a sight I will never forget. The sudden passing of Comrade Iyayi is certainly a great loss not only to members of his immediate family, but to us comrades and the entire nation. Comrade Festus Iyayi was born in 1947. He was able to conquer the menace of poverty by his exceptional brilliance, which saw him through the then Soviet Union and United Kingdom. One of his books ‘Heroes’ won the commonwealth prize for literature in 1988. Comrade Iyayi was ASUU President in the mid 1980s at a time the military bandits were tearing our commonwealth into tatters. Comrade Iyayi’s leadership of ASUU distinguished him as a revolutionary fighters for the best in the citadel of learning within out nation. His love and devotion to teaching and academic freedom is quite unprecedented. It was this great love for a sanitized educational system in Nigeria that dragged him to make a trip which finally consumed him on November 12th, 2013. May his giant soul rest in peace! Amen! One thing is very clear Comrade Iyayi was a colossus in human, academic and democratic struggle. He whole heartedly believed that another Nigeria is possible.
Printed and published by Bendel Newspapers Company Limited, 24, Airport Road, P.M.B. 1334 Benin City. Telephone; Lagos: 01 4930929, Benin:Nowinta, 052 257492, 257531 Wrote Editor: BARR. SOLOMON IMOHIOSEN (KSJI)-(07030699646), Deputy General Manager-Marketing (08023457566), Assistant General Manager-Advertisement (08023808856) WHERE WE ARE Lagos Office: 3/4 Amode Close, Kudirat Abiola Way, By Olushosun Bus Stop, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos. Abuja Office: Floor 1, Edo House, 75 Ralph Shodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja. Tel/Fax: 09-5237631. All correspondence to: 24 Airport Road, Benin City. E-mail: nigerianobserver@yahoo.com (ISSN 0331-2674)