Nigerian observer 28 06 2013

The Nigerian

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PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 ROYALTY Pages 16-17 Celebrating Oba Erediauwa, the gift of God To humanity

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

• Vol . 38 NO.264 • FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013 • N 100.00

Police arrest 52 kidnap suspects ... recover arms, N6.8m cash

PORT HARCOURT Rivers Police Command says it has arrested 52 suspected kidnappers, rescued six victims and recovered N6.8 million ransom

paid to the suspects.

Mr Joseph Mbu, the Police Commissioner in the state, announced this in Port Harcourt on

Thursday at a news conference, saying that nine kidnap suspects escaped during arrest.

He said that a large

quantity of arms and ammunition were also recovered and that the feat was achieved within

Continues on page 2

Death Sentence

FEMINIQUE Page 20

Dear Teachers, you are not Abiku

EdotasksCivilSociety groups

By OSAZUWA AKONEDO

BENIN CITY-Edo State Government has called on civil society organizations in the country and the world over, to direct their advocacy campaign against the killing of convicts on death row to the National Assembly, to ensure that death sentence is expunged from the nation’s criminal code.

The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner of

Justice, Barrister Henry Idahagbon stated this on Wednesday when civil

society organizations and students’ leaders led by the Executive

Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice,

Reverend David Ugolor presented the State Ministry of Justice with two communiqués on extra judicial killing and the killing of criminals on death row issued at the end of the two separate meetings held by civil

society organizations and students’ leaders from various higher institutions in Edo. According to the Attorney General, any state governor is under

Continues on page 2

Cancer

Don wants food quality control agency set up

By OSE EHEBHA EKPOMA - Following rising incidences of

STOP OIL BUNKERING

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· · · · · ·

People of Edo State, Government has discovered that inspite of measures taken by security agents in the State to stop illegal oil bunkering, perpetrators of this shady business have continued unabated.

The State Government is warning all those still involved in oil bunkering in the State to, in their own interest, stop this shady and dubious business forthwith as stiffer penalties await them.

Any person or group of persons caught in the illegal business will be dealt with according to the law.

All vehicles and equipment used will be burnt.

Be patriotic, report any person suspected to be in the business of oil bunkering to the authorities concerned.

Join Government to rid the State of enemies of progress.

Edo State must continue to move forward.

This message is from the Edo State Ministry of Information and Orientation

cancer and other terminal diseases in the country, a University don, Prof Omolola Ekundayo has advocated the establishment of a proactive regulatory agency to monitor quality of local foods.

She said food quality control was a veritable means of preventing dangerous diseases precipitated by harmful micro organisms, since majority of Nigerians cannot afford healthcare services.

Prof Ekundayo stated this while delivering the 47th inaugural lecture series of the Ambrose Alli University titled, “Microbial Impact: Gains and Loses” on Thursday in Ekpoma, Edo State.

She posited that the government must be interested in the quality of food consumed by Nigerians, if she hopes to achieve the Millennium Development

2013 MINISTERING PLATFORM BRIEFING: L-R: Ministers of Aviation, Princess Stella Odua, Information, Mr. Labaran Maku and Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, at the 2013 Ministerial Platform briefing in Abuja yesterday.

US group lauds Oba Erediauwa

BOSTON (U.S.) United States-based socio-cultural organization, The Benin Club of Massachusetts has described the Benin Monarch, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Continues on page 2 CFR, Oba Erediauwa as

an embodiment of peace, unity and prosperity.

In a glowing tribute from its Boston headquarters to the

highly revered King on His Royal Majesty’s birthday celebration, the Apex Benin organization in Massachusetts

EDSOGPADEC road projects in Ovia NE producing Areas ready August D e v e l o p m e n t

By THOMPSON

ERHOMONSELE OKADA –The ongoing construction of the 10.5 kilometres Oduna-Eghudu-IboroEkenwan road project

is to be ready and delivered for public utilization in August, 2013.

This came to the fore when Edo State

Commissioner for Special Duties, Oil and Gas, Ambassador Orobosa Omo-Ojo under took an inspection of the state Oil and Gas

Commissioner ( E D S O G PA D E C ) projects in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State.

Continues on page 2

praised the Oba’s vision and dynamic leadership which has continued to attract tremendous development in Edo State.

In the statement released by Anthony Omoruyi and Emmanuel Okunmwendia, its President and Publicity secretary respectively, the organization recalled the Oba’s extra-ordinary advocacy skills in championing the needs of his people and the entire nation.

“We have meticulously

Continues on page 2

2 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

News

Police arrest 52 kidnap suspects

Continued from page 1

three months of his assumption of office in the state.

The police commissioner said that the command recorded 18 kidnap cases.

‘’We have recorded 18 kidnapping cases; we were able to rescue six and we arrested 52, those who escaped were nine.’’

He said the command

recovered 20 Ak47 rifles, one G3, five pump actions guns and an automatic pump action ones.

Others care 82 magazines

and 1,450 rounds of AK47 ammunition.

“We have also recovered some dynamites, some cars (nine) and welding pipes.”

Edo tasks Civil Society groups

Continued from page 1

a legal duty to sign execution warrant failing which the governor can be sued in accordance with the provisions of the law.

He said the advocacy of the Amnesty International and the civil societies in Edo State should therefore be directed towards amending the nation’s criminal code Acts so that death sentence can be converted to life imprisonment and expunged from the law.

“The advocacy of the amnesty international, the advocacy of the civil societies here should be directed towards amending our laws.

As we speak today; in Edo State, there are three offences that carry death penalty. The first is murder under section 319, the second is armed robbery, the third is treasonable felony. And when a person is charged with armed robbery or any of these three offences, the judge has no discretion. He must impose the sentence of death, because that is the law!

“And let me say finally, every governor of a state is under a legal duty, a constitutional responsibility to sign execution warrant”, he said.

Speaking further, he said the execution warrant was signed on the four convicts after they had exhausted all their rights known to law in the country right from the High Court to Appeal Court and finally at the Supreme Court where death sentence was imposed on them all through. He said they were sentenced to death due to the level of evil crime they committed.

He said thus; “the four

convicts are persons who have exhausted all their rights known to law in this country.

Their sentences have been confirmed since 1993, 1994 and only one of them was

confirmed in 2000”.

Earlier, the leader of the group, the Executive Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, Reverend David Ugolor said

their concern is to put an end to the incidence of extra judicial killing and killing of convicts on death row as there are other stiffer punishment that could be meted on offenders instead of death sentence.

Don wants food quality control agency set up Goals (MDGs).

Continued from page 1

Though she acknowledged the existence of the National Agency for Food, Drug, Administration and Control (NAFDAC), she said the agency has only made impact in the fight against fake, poisonous and expired drugs.

The professor of Microbiology pointed out that most of the country’s local foods contain aflatoxins and other myco toxins which she said were carcinogenic that kills slowly.

“Our foods are

contaminated with these poisons and carcinogens; this is why cases of cancer are on the rise.

“Our very common foods are very positive for the presence of very dangerous and harmful organisms such as salomonella and Escherichia and many others.

“In developed countries, when one batch of food items is tested and found to positive for any of these organisms, within a few hours all such contaminated foods are recalled and removed from

the shelves.

“What is the response of our government to the presence of aflatoxins in our food?” she asked.

Ekundayo however noted that in spite of the negative side of these organisms, majority of them can be exploited for economic advantage.

She explained that many industrial processes can be established for the production of amino acids, vitamins, organic acids, enzymes and alcohol.

US group lauds Oba Erediauwa

Continued from page 1

followed, with great interest and passion, His Royal Majesty’s activities and have concluded without any equivocation that the impressive rate of socioeconomic developments being enjoyed in the state today is the fruit of the Oba’s efforts.”

It cited instances in which the Oba has vigorously addressed the issue of crimes, lack of security, employment and meaningful development with successive governments, followed with great efforts to finding solutions.

“It is a well known fact that the Benin Monarch has always impressed upon successive governments to honor their obligations to the people, the

statement said.”

The organization noted with admiration, the Oba’s tenacious commitment to the defense and preservation of the enviable Benin culture and traditions.

The organization saluted the Oba’s administrative ingenuity and vision for his appointment of several more Enigies (Dukes) as part of his commitment to sustain the traditional institution and make the administration of the territory easier and governance more accessible to his subjects.

It commended the Oba for his wisdom and fatherly role in timely intervention to resolve problems, including those arising from political rivalries and his magnanimity in

forgiving those who wronged him.

The organization extolled the Oba’s leadership role in the creation of a homogeneous Edo State, remembering with pride, honor and gratitude how he successfully mobilized all other relevant traditional rulers, Dukes and Chiefs in the old Bendel State to speak with one voice in the attainment of that goal.

The Benin club called on all people of Edo State worldwide to continue to rally round the King and other traditional rulers in the state for the defence of the traditional institution which it described as, “our greatest ancestral legacy spared from the untold evil of colonialism.”

EDSOGPADEC road projects in Ovia NE ready Continued from page 1 Ugbine. inspected in Ovia North East August The commissioner had About four kilometres of the Local Government Area were powered water bore-hole earlier inspected the Utesi-

Oduna end of the road project on the Benin-Gelegele Road had been asphalted, awaiting laying of another belt of asphalt while other parts had the stonebase, earthen road and bulldozing of trees going on simultaneously.

To ascertain the quality o the work being done on the road, the commissioner made efforts to ensure that the work meet contract specification.

Speaking with newsmen thereafter, Ambassador OmoOjo commended the contracting firm ESO Construction Company (Nig) Ltd for the good quality work being done describing it as “Impressive”.

He noted that the company, whose men, materials and equipment were on site, defied the rains to work on the road project.

The Chairman and Managing Director, ESO Construction Company (Nig) Ltd, Mr. Emmanuel Sonny Okolie gave assurance that the quality of work on the road would be sustained and the road project would be completed and delivered in August this year.

Other EDSOGPADEC project

construction of a Customary Court at Oduna, a block of six classrooms each at Egbetan, Obanosa and Ikpako communities, a solar

each at Ikpako and Evbode as well as construction of Primary Health Care Centre at Evbuorokho and a modern one-Story police Station at

Obagienokenkporo Road project and visited the RAYCON asphalt base both in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.

Ogbewe appointed IPMAN Ag

By ROLAND OSAKUE/ zonal chairman INNOCENT OMOAKA BENIN CITY - The National body of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has appointed the Uwayoba of Benin Kingdom, Chief Solomon Nosakhare Ogbewe(JP) as the Acting Zonal Chairman of IPMAN in Mid-Western Zone.

The National Executive Committee of IPMAN carried out the appointment in compliance with the constitution of IPMAN under Tenure of Office item (g) on page 38.

A statement signed by Alhaji Aminu Abdulkadir and Mike Osatuyi, the National President and National Secretary of IPMAN respectively and made available to The NIGERIAN

OBSERVER, however said, it expected high level of performance from Chief Ogbewe on his recent appointment.

The appointment which was communicated to the Area Managers of PPMC and Depot Chiefs in Warri and Benin, as well as the IPMAN Chairmen in the Zone urged their members to remain focused and support the Zonal Chairman on his plan to move the Zone forward.

The statement also indicated that the appointment takes immediate effect.

Meanwhile, the National Adviser of IPMAN, Elder Peter Agbonkonkon has hailed the re-appointment of Chief Solomon Ogbewe as the Acting Zonal Chairman of

IPMAN in the Mid-Western Zone, as he pointed out that his tenure in the zone had brought a remarkable improvement to its members.

Elder Agbonkonkon, who urged the people to shun at the antics and manipulations of some of its members, stated that the so called “elders council” purportedly organized by some members in Benin depot is unknown to IPMAN constitution and those in the said council were on their own.

He therefore warned that IPMAN would not hesitate to deal ruthlessly with any of its members found wanting or trying to destabilize the laudable ideas and plan of action geared towards the progress of the association.

ITM, Usen resumes academic session, begins exams July 1

By EMMANUEL EGOBIAMBU

USEN -The Edo State Institute of Technology and Management, Usen, has resumed academic activities and is set to commence its examination on Monday July 1, 2013.

A statement endorsed by the Institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Richard Elawure indicated that the examinations were earlier suspended due to students unrest.

The unrest, the statement noted, was masterminded by the Students Union Government (SUG) insistence that students must write examinations without paying their schools fees.

With the new arrangement, the examinations would begin with students in National Diploma (ND1) while students in National Diploma (ND 11) would resume theirs at a later date in order to guarantee sanity and effective protection of lives and property.

At an Academic Board Meeting of June 25, 2013, it was resolved that the

ND11 examination be suspended till culprits in the unrest are brought to book while the SUG and the S t u d e n t s Representative Congress (SRC) were suspended.

In their place, a seven-member caretaker committee was set up with Comrade Edo-Omo Efosa as Chairman for the purpose of ensuring that the students welfare continues to receive attention.

Members of the caretaker committee are Edo-Omo Efosa, Chairman, Owie Greg (Applied Science), Bakare Terry Isowamwen (Business Students), Segun O g u n y e m i (Engineering), Igbinadolor Jude (Environmental Studies), Agashi Samuel Imoleayo (Boys Hostel) and Osaretin Patricia Ehigie (Girls Hostel).

The statement however added that detailed of the information could be obtained from the institutions website.

EDHA majority leader loses dad

By OGBOLU GEORGE BENIN CITY - The death has been announced of pastor Francis Shaibu, Father of the Majority Leader, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Philip Shaibu. The late Fracis Shaibu hailed from Uzairue in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to a statement signed by the majority leader, the funeral rites started on Tuesday June 25, 2013 as the body left St Gerald Catholic Hospital Kaduna to Notre Damme Hospital, Uzairue.

Service of song would

hold today, Friday June 28, 2013 at his residence, No 5 Philip Shaibu Road, off NTA Road, Jattu Uzairue at 5 pm.

Tomorrow, Saturday 29, 2013 will be interment at 8 10 am, to be followed by entertainment of guests at Azama primary School Jattu, Uzairue.

The funeral would climax on Sunday June 30, 2013 with a thanksgiving mass at St, Philips Catholic Church Jattu.

Ogbewe Appointed IPMAN Ag Zonal Chairman.

Flying Eagles qualify for round of 16 FLYING eagles of Nigeria have booked a place in the round of 16 of FIFA U-20 World cup Turkey 2013 after beaten Korea Republic 1-0 in their last group match on Thursday.

Nigeria finished second in Group B with 6 points behind Portugal who have 7 points.

Flying eagles started the game like house on fire knowing that victory will guarantee them a place in the next round of the competition and were rewarded with a goal in the 9th minute when Olanrewaju Kayode headed home Captain Abdul Jeleel Ajagun’s well taken freekick.

Nigeria continued with their dominance with Wilfred Ndidi coming close with a header off Michael Olaitan’s corner kick. A minute later, Olanrewaju Kayode fired wide from a tight angle.

In the 17th minute Alhaji Gero’s shot at goal was well saved by Korea Republic Lee Changgeun.

The Koreans played better in the second half and made efforts at goal but met a solid defence marshaled by Wilfred Ndidi and Okorie.Abdul Jeleel Ajagun, Alhaji Gero and Kayode Olanrewaju all came close to scoring in the second half.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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Inside Edo

Commissioner Tasks NUJ, NAWOJ On Capacity Building

By THOMPSON ERHOMONSELE

BENIN CITY – To underscore the indisputable significance of human resource as the life-line of any organisation, Edo State Commissioner for Special Duties, Oil and Gas, Ambassador Orobosa

Omo-Ojo has in Benin City tasked the OBSERVER Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Edo State Chapter on human capacity building.

The commissioner, who

is also a journalist and publisher of a news magazine, gave the advice when the executive members of both professional bodies visited him against the background that journalists

publicise other persons to attain esteemed positions without recourse to training and re-training of themselves for which he pledged his support.

He expressed his willingness on his personal capacity to partner the NUJ Chapel to ensure that it achieved its goal of building its secretariat in the premises of the Bendel Newspapers Company Limited (BNCL) Publishers of the OBSERVER titles.

While reflecting in his position as a consultant that revived the tabloid,

Ambassador Omo-Ojo thanked the NUJ members for their visit.

Furthermore, he assured NAWOJ of his support even in ensuring that the female journalists embark on an inspection of the oil and gas producing local government areas in Edo State just as he enjoined journalists to be steadfast and objective in their reportage.

Earlier, the Chairman of NUJ, OBSERVER Chapel, Comrade Kehind Osagiede, who congratulated Ambassador Omo-Ojo on his

appointment as commissioner, reeled out the set goals of the chapel to include building of the chapel’s House, purchase of vehicle, welfare and training of journalists and government’s attention to the state-owned print medium.

In her remarks, the Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Comrade Amina Ebor, who enumerated achievements of her administration, also solicited for support forwards actualising other targets such as building of a crèche for babies of journalists among others.

Lack Of Information Hinders Dispensation Of Justice

By OSARIEMEN IDIAGHE

Rev. Father Esanastus Abu presents a copy of the Catholic Missal to Governor Adams Oshiomhole during a visit of the Catholic Media Practitioners to the Governor in Benin City recently.

Ikpoba-Okha LG Boss Tasks 1 BENIN CITY – Beer Assoc On Unity Parlour Owners Association in IkpobaOkha Local Government Area have been advised to be more cooperative and united.

The advice was given by the chairman of the council, Hon. (Mrs) Itohan Osahon-Ogbeide while playing host to the

members of Beer Parlour Owners Association Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Chapter in her office at Idogbo.

The council boss thanked members of the association for their support during the electioneering period.

Oyakhire Charges Nigerian Leaders To Emulate Nelson Mandela

By RICHARD EWEKA BENIN CITY - The former Sole Administrator of Oyo State and Assistant Inspector General of Police (rtd), Prince Amen Oyakhire has called on Nigerian Leaders to emulate the life style of Nelson Mandela who is being celebrated for sacrificing his life for the liberation and development of South Africa.

Making the call in a chat with newsmen in Benin City, Prince Oyakhire said Nelson Mandela is a reference point in Africa. According to him he is an inspiration for this and future generation because of his leadership quality which he has used to liberate South Africa from the grip of colonial masters.

“He is presently sick but the whole nation is united in praying for him to recover. This alone in a lesson to our leaders who do not have the interest of the people at heart”.

Speaking further, Prince Oyakhire said Mandela’s life is a mission in destiny, from prison to presidency and in four years brought radical and progressive change to South Africa and her people.

“His reign as president brought unity, peace, progress and development and vacated office when the ovation was loudest. This is the trade mark of a true leader. Mandela is the father of African continent”, he said.

She promised to fulfill all her promises during the electioneering campaign, expressing joy that the beer parlour owners were able to unite to form such an association.

Speaking earlier Chairman of the Association Mr. Charles Ehi Uyiekpen told the council boss that they were in her office to congratulate her on her victory at the poll and subsequent swearing-in.

BENIN CITY – The Speaker Edo State House of Assembly Hon. Uyi Igbe has said that the non report of abuse cases against the girl child especially rape due to the stigma attached to it has hindered the execution by laws passed by the House.

The Speaker made this known when the executive of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) paid him a courtesy call in Benin City.

According to him, the nonreportage of rape cases has made prosecution of offenders difficult.

He said the House would soon come up with a bill which has already passed first reading with very stiff penalties for offenders.

In her address, the chairperson of the association, Comrade Amina Eboh solicited the

- EDHA Speaker

support of the House in making laws that would protect women and the girl child from abuses.

Comrade Amina also solicited the Speaker’s support in the building of the

NAWOJ crèche which will go a long way in helping practising women journalists in the performance of their duties, saying that their infants could be entrusted to the crèche .

Newspaper Distributors Association Elect New Exco

By IKHUNAGBE ERNEST

BENIN CITY – The Benin Chapter of the Newspapers Distributors Association has elected new officers to run the affairs of the Association for a four-year term.

The change of guard took place at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) the Press Centre, Benin City on Wednesday.

The newly constituted executives had no opposition to contend with hence they were swiftly sworn in by the Patron of the Association

Governor Adams Oshiomhole flanked by Comrade Broderick Ighato, Deputy President, Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) and Comrade Bridgitte Asemota during a meeting with the Governor on the 27.5% Teachers’ Special Allowance in Benin City recently.

Chief Gabriel Oshodi who administered the oath of office on them.

The new officers included, Elder John Irhue, chairman, Hon. Ehigiegba Felix, Vice Chairman; Mr. Uadiale E. Sunny, Secretary.

Others included, Mr. Atebor Clifford, Asst Secretary; Pastor Alex Akazue, Financial Secretary; Mr. A.E. Ken Omondan, Welfare/Social Secretary; Moses Odiase, Auditor; Maria O. Akhabu, Treasurer; Abraham Sunday , Publicity Secretary and Isoru Benjamine as Speaker.

Dignitaries present included members of the past executives, the Interim Chairman, the patron and vendors.

In his acceptance speech, the new chairman, Elder Irhue John applauded the good performance of the past executives.

He however, urged members to be of good conduct and be committed to their professional calling as “Vendor”, which he said, has impacted much upon him.

The ceremony ended with comments and commendations from members to the newly constituted executives who were asked to live up to expectation.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Inside Edo Group Commends Domingo For Positive Representation

By MATTHEW OKAGHA

AUCHI- A socio-cultural group, Etsako Frontiers has commended Senator Domingo Obende for his positive representation which has culminated in far reaching achievements in Edo North Senatorial District in particular and Edo State on general.

The group’s spokesman, Chief Abubakar Braimah said Etsako Frontiers is a non-partisan organisation with membership drawn from across the political divide.

He said the group is particu-

larly impresses by senator Obende’s empowerment which had provided employment opportunities for a number of Afemai children.

The group pointed out that given the determination of senator Obende to reposition Afemai children in key federal institutions, the Afemai nation will attain the next level in the coming decade.

According to the group, senator Obende’s positive representation in only two year has rubbished the wasted years of 1999 to 2011 when PDP Edo North Senators held away at the

Jehovah Shemmah Ministries For Commissioning, June 29

By INNOCENT OMOAKA

BENIN CITY – The official commissioning and dedication of Jehovah Shemmah Ministries, Living Faith Chapel, Benin City has been scheduled to hold on Saturday 29th June, 2013.

According to a state-

ment signed by the Resident Pastor, Pastor Ayodeji Oiseomaoje, the official commissioning and dedication of the church building will commence by 11 am at No. 3 Etin-Osa Lane, off 2nd Ihogbe Street, off I.C.E. Road, Benin City.

National Assembly.

The group also commended the Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for his courage and foresight in bringing Afemai people together by ceding the senate position to a performer from Akoko-Edo axis of Edo North.

According to chief Braimah, the Etsako Frontiers at an enlarged meet held recently, having appraised the performance of Senator Domingo Obende, unanimously resolved that the senator deserves a second tenure at the senate.

NYCN Sacks 2 Officers

By NDIDI OJIEH

BENIN CITY – The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Edo State chapter has relieved two principal officer of the chapter of their positions.

A release signed by the Public Relations Officers of NYCN, Comrade Naps Tele

Repositioning Of National Theatre, For Economic

By INNOCENT OMOAKA

BENIN CITY- The Minister of Culture and Tourism, Edem Duke has described the on-going re-positioning of the National Theatre as a step aimed at making it viable for economic growth.

The Minister disclosed this while fielding questions during the 2013 ministerial platform in Abuja which was monitored in Benin City.

According to the minister, the on-going re-positioning at privatisation of the national monument, where ownership would be transferred to private investors.

He added that the re-positioning comprises of a publicprivate partnership concessioning where private developers would be encourage to build business outlets like shopping malls, supper markets, and so on.

L-R: Chairman, Board of Directors, Ashaka Cement Company Plc, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga; Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Mr. Bello Abdullahi; Vice Chairman of the Board, Mr. John Stull and member of the Board, Senator Muhammed Muhammed at the Company’s AGM in Bauchi yesterday.

“Agreement between the government and the private developers on the development would contain handing over the properties to government after a period of time,” he said.

Similarly, the minister argued that the initiative which is aimed at transforming the National Theatre, would placed it on similar standard as the mandetta square in South Africa and a true tourist destination for fun seekers.

Igbinomwanhia named the officers as Comrade Omomila Michael and Engineer Eugene Okoeguale who were Deputy Chairman and Vice Chairman, Edo Central Senational District respectively.

According to the release, Omomila was found culpable of anti-NYCN activities for deliberately disrupting proceedings of the extraordinary management meeting of the council.

The release also stated that Okeoguale acts which amounted to gross-indiscipline by violently destroying vital document of the council during a session of the extraordinary meeting.

The decisions, according to the release were part of the resolutions of the NYCN at an extraordinary management meeting of June 14, 2013.

Henceforth, the release advised government at all levels, youth organisations, corporate

bodies and individuals not to transact any business or have any dealings with the two persons on behalf of the council.

Security agencies, press, youth organisations, Local Government chapters and the general public are advised to note, the release also stated.

However, reacting to his removal from office, Comrade Michael Omomila declared that he remains the duly elected Deputy Chairman of the NYCN Edo State chapter as less than two-third executive members endorsed his purported removal which is contrary to the constitution of NYCN. He described his purported removal as an attempt to ridicule him and cover up the crisis of confidence in the council.

He declared that as a duly elected officer, he has the con-

FG Plans To Transform Economy Through Perishable Produce

By OMENMWEN OMOROGBE/ WINIFRED OSASOBO

2013 Batch ‘B’ corps members taking their oath at Iseyin, Oyo State yesterday.

stitutional right to attend any of the council’s meeting for he cannot be indicted for attending the NYCN South-South meeting held in Port-Harcourt.

On his part Engr. Eugene Okoeguale expressed a more reconciliatory tone, adding that he has since apologised and written to the management through the executive committee.

He, however regretted that he was not given the opportunity to defend himself on the issue that had to do with his presence at the Jos meeting before a motion was moved for his removal.

Engr. Eugene Okoeguale noted that the NYCN constitution provides for a committee to be set up to look into such issues for which the leadership failed to adhere to.

“For now I need peace and that is what I stand for”. He added.

BENIN CITY - The Minister of Aviation, (Mrs.) Stella Odua has said that the federal government plans to transform Nigeria’s economy through perishable produce.

She made this known during the 2013, Ministerial Platform monitored in Benin yesterday.

According to the minister, the Ministry of Aviation is a catalyst that has created room for 15 business investors that will help to yield huge economy growth in Nigeria.

She also said the main fo-

cus of the perishable produce is to enhance agricultural development in order to transform the economy in rural communities.

She also said that, this perishable produce will engage youth in both commerce, training and empowerment of women in the country.

She said that security system for passengers through the help of PMB and APP monitoring agency in the country.

Stella Oduah also said that the ministry is collaborating with NGO, USUK for effective security and provision of Aerotropolis Airport that will be of help to the economy.

6 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Across The Nation Govs’ Forum: Amaechi Criticises NBA’s Silence

ABUJA - The Rivers Governor, Mr Chibuike Amaechi, on Wednesday decried the attitude of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) towards the crisis in the Nigeria Governors’

Forum following its May 24 election.

The governor made the criticism at a symposium , organised by the Rule of Law Development Foundation, in Abuja.

Amaechi called on Nigerians to defend the truth in the interest of the 2015 general elections.

He said “NBA has lost its voice and NBA cannot afford to lose its voice on issues of

national concern because of its position in the society.

“Anybody who supports the Jang group is undermining democracy because everybody voted during the election, including Jang.

The way things are going we have to be careful. “ He insisted he was the bonafide chairman of the forum because he won the election.

It would be recalled that

the election of the chairman of the forum has generated a controversy with both Amaechi and Jonah Jang of Plateau claiming to be the holder of the office.

No Sacred Cow In Drug Wars IKWUANO (ABIA) the war against the con- NOA until The State Director of the sumption of illicit drug was

Venerable (Prof.) Benji Egede, Lecturer, Ambrose Alli University (right), presenting a citation to Sir Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Esama of Benin during the Episcopal Award to Chief Gabriel Igbinedion at the 2nd session of the 4th Synod of the Diocese of Esan Anglican Communion which took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Iruekpen recently.

Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Abia, Mrs Ngozi Uduma, says there should be no sacred cow if the fight against drug abuse in the country must be won.

Uduma said this on Wednesday in an address at the celebration of this year’s UN International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, at Isiala, Ikwuano Local Government Area. “Government should ensure that drug barons are arrested and prosecuted, irrespective of the social status of the persons involved.

“This will serve as deter-

rent to others, who may venture into this unlawful business,’’ she said.

She also called for collaboration among the various tiers of government, schools, faith-based organisations, traditional rulers, town unions, the media and civil society groups in the war against the phenomenon.

She commended the commitment of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in arresting and prosecuting drug offenders.

The NOA director gave the assurance that the agency would not relent in its efforts

NDLEA Seizes 1,407.7kg Of Drugs In Imo

OWERRI - The Imo command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has seized 1,407.98 kilogrammes of drugs from 2011 to date.

The agency’s Commander in the state, Mr Kaku Mashelia, announced the figure in Owerri on Wednesday at an event marking the 2013 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.

Mashelia said the quantity comprised 1406.78kg of can-

nabis sativa (Indian hemp), 861.9gm of cocaine and 384.3gm of heroin.

He said the command arrested 185 male and 60 female drug users, prosecuted 50 and counseled 158 within the period.

The commander said the high figure portended danger because all major drugs of abuse were available in the state, in spite of the agency’s efforts and other security agencies.

He challenged youths and community leaders to expose all

drug dealers and other criminally-minded persons to NDLEA and other security agencies.

“We must defend the state against all forms of vices and defend the investment posture of the present administration to create jobs for the youth,” he said.

Mashelia urged other security agencies to collaborate with the

NDLEA to rid the state of drug users and illicit drug traffickers.

He, however, commended the Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit Zone C Owerri for handing over drug suspects and drugs seized by the organization to the NDLEA. In a goodwill message, the NDLEA Chairman, Mr Ahmadu Giade, said that the agency was winning its war against illicit

drugs in the country.

“Nigeria has incapacitated numerous drug trafficking syndicates with the seizure of 3,434,966.23kg of narcotics and conviction of 21,871 drug traffickers since 1990,” the message read.

In a remark, Mr Okechukwu Okorocha, the Senior Special Adviser to Governor Rochas Okorocha on Security, pledged the cooperation of Imo Security Network with the NDLEA in the fight against illicit drugs.

fought and won. ‘``The agency is committed to ensuring that the youth and wider society are properly sensitised to the dangers inherent in the consumption of illicit drugs,’’ she said.

She commended the Chairman, Local Government Transition Committee, Mr Henry Nwaoha, for accepting to host the event, describing the gesture as a demonstration of his commitment to the fight against the social ill.

Earlier, Nwaoha said that he considered the choice of the council as host for the celebration by the agency as ‘’an honour and privilege’’.

He urged parents and guardians to show greater interest in the lifestyle of their children and wards and enforce discipline on them.

Reports say that high points of the event included a drama presentation on the dangers of the consumption of illicit drugs, performed by NYSC members.

LUTH Resident Doctors Begin 3-Day Warning Strike LAGOS - The Association of Resident Doctors, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) chapter, Idi-Araba, Lagos, has embarked on a three-day warning strike in compliance with the directive from the association‘s national body.

Dr Emeka Ugwu, President of the Association, LUTH chapter, confirmed the strike in an interview with newsmen in Lagos.

Ugwu said doctors at the hospital had complied with directive, adding that few of his members were operating skeletal services at the accident and emergency unit.

He said that the strike was to address the lapses on the side of government to improve

healthcare delivery in the country.

The president of the association, however, appealed to Nigerians to bear with the doctors and join them in fighting the just cause.

He said that the consultants were attending to the patients since they were not on strike.

“There has been 21-day ultimatum before this strike. So, what the association was requesting, budgetary provision for training of specialists in Nigeria, funding for residency training in Nigeria.

“We appreciate the effort of the current Minister of Health for including some funds in this year’s budget for training, but it’s grossly insufficient.

“So, in LUTH because we are part of the national body, we have joined the strike, but we are providing services for patients that come to the accident and emergency department so that we can prevent people from dying because of this unfortunate three-day warning strike.

“We are not running clinics, we are not doing the non-emergency services; the consultants are not on strike.

So, we believe that Nigerian people should also help us to prevail upon the government to make sure that our hospitals are standardised and that the training of specialists in Nigeria should be comparable with what is obtainable all over the world.

L-R: Sir Peter Edeoghon, Sir Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Esam of Benin, HRH Alhaji A.Y. Dirisu, Okuokpillagbe of Okpella, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, former Governor of Edo State and His Royal Highness, Zaiki Eluojerio, Onojie of Igueben at the Episcopal Award to Chief Gabriel Igbinedion at the 2nd session of the 4th Synod of the Diocese of Esan Anglican Communion which took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Iruekpen recently. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

7

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Lagos NCC To Release Code For Telecoms Industry

LAGOS - Dr Eugene Juwah, the Executive ViceChairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has said that the commission would soon release Corporate Governance Code for the telecommunication industry.

Juwah announced the plan in Lagos at a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Guidelines for Corporate Governance in the Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Industry.

Represented by Mr. Okechukwu Itanyi, the Commissioner for Stakeholders Management in NCC, Juwah said the code would ensure that the companies maintained best practices in their operations.

He said the purpose of the forum was to discuss and agree on the collective gains of the working group prior to the launch of the code.

“The first stakeholders’ consultation on corporate governance highlighted the absence of a common code to which all operators can align.

“The need to bridge this lacuna thus became apparent.

Consequently, the immediate step the commission took in addressing this situation was the creation of an industry

working group,” he said.

Juwah said the Corporate Governance Working Group (CGWG), inaugurated in October 2012, had focused on identifying the corporate governance priorities for the Nigerian telecoms sector.

He said the working group also focused on considering and agreeing the target and scope of the code, among others.

He said that NCC was determined to promote good corporate governance as well as corporate governance code for the telecoms industry.

According to him, it is imperative that operators align with and uphold a code of corporate governance which is specific to their industry.

The Chairman of CGWG, Dr Fabian Ajogwu, said that the working group would conclude its assignment by the end of July.

Ajogwu said that the telecoms industry was an important industry, hence, the need for a corporate governance code to keep it focused.

He said that the working group had worked closely with the operators and had looked critically at issues of board management and financial reporting, among others.

Speaker, Taraba House of Assembly, Haruna Tsokwa and Ag. Governor Garbas Umar, at the passing out parade ofSureP Taraba Marshals in Jalingo recently.

Army Arrest 1,492 Suspects - GOC LAGOS - The GOC, 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.Gen. Obi Umahi, has said that 1,492 suspected criminals were arrested in the division since he assumed office on Feb. 8.

Addressing a conference to mark the Nigerian Army Day celebration in Lagos, Umahi said acts of criminality and lawlessness had “tremendously reduced” in the division following increased proactive security measures adopted by the army.

He said that Operation MESA, Quick Response Group (QRG) and the Anti-terrorist Operations routine patrol had yielded positive results in Lagos and Ogun states.

“OP MESA has had 18 operations and made a total of 1,361 arrests; QRG has recorded 115 arrests with eight operations, while anti-terrorists Ops has recorded 15 suspects and a kidnapper,” he said.

On the number of equipment seized, Umahi added that the anti-terrorist operations seized materials including 14 IEDs, 13 Ak47 magazines with 30 rounds each, packets of explosives construction pipes, live ammunitions and a Golf car.

The GOC ssid that the division had been working with other security agencies in Lagos State in carrying out some operations, adding that Lagos would continue to lead other states in terms of peace.

Umahi, however, sought the cooperation of the media in the interest of the nation, adding that the press was equally a stakeholder in the Nigerian project.

On the programmes

outlined to mark the Army Day, the GOC announced that there would be a special Juma’at service and Tambola on Friday, while a special Christian interdenomination service would hold on Sunday.

L-R: Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State, State’s Head of Civil Service, Mr. Abdon Gin and Emir of Dass and royal Father of the day, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu, at the celebration of Civil Service Day and presentation of 2nd Edition of Civil Service Compendium in Bauchi recently.

IG Appoints New Commandant For Police College, Ikeja

LAGOS The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar, has approved the appointment of Malam Yahaya Garba, a Commissioner of Police, as Commandant of the Premier Police College, Ikeja.

Garba has since taken

over from the former Commandant, Ibrahim Yerima, who was redeployed to the Eastern Port Authority Command in Rivers.

This is contained in a statement by the college’s Spokesman, DSP Samuel

Jinadu, on Thursday in Lagos.

According to the statement, the new commandant was, before now, the Commissioner of Police in-charge of

Research and Planning at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

The I-G, Army Works Commandant, Maj.-Gen. Funso Owonubi and some senior police officers had inspected the level of work at the College on May 18.

During the inspection tour, Owunubi said that the rehabilitation had reached 90 per cent completion.

“The remaining works in the rehabilitation of the college will be completed in the next two weeks, before handing over to the police,’’ Owonubi added.

Settle Pensioners Entitlements, Union Urges FG

LAGOS - Mr. Pius Chukwura, President, Federal Branch of Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), advised the Federal Government to pay 71,135 pensioners removed from the pension payroll since October 2010.

Chukwura, who was represented by Mr. Fashola Oluwo, an Ex-Officio member, gave the advice in Lagos during a warning protest organised by the union at the Federal Civil Service Club, Ikoyi.

According to him, majority of his union members

have been removed from the payroll after October 2010 verification exercise and they have not been paid till date.

“There are 166, 000 pensioners nationwide who are receiving pensions every month.

“Unfortunately. 71, 135 of them were removed from the payroll after the 2010 verification exercise carried out by the Pension Task Force without reason.

“This union has assisted about 10,000 pensioners to fill forms and

submit documents in Abuja without any response.

“These are pensioners who are already receiving their monthly payment before the exercise,’’ he said.

Chukwura said that this figure did not include those who were disengaged in 2006.

According to him, majority of those who are disengaged by the Obasanjo Administration have not received their gratuities, not to talk of being on the pension list.

The NUP president said that the Federal Government should realise that pensioners were elderly and were being assisted to the venues to lay their complaints.

Some of the pensioners shared their experience with newsmen.

The pensioners lamented their current condition, saying that the situation was not fair, having served the country in their youthful days.

Mr Femi Phillips, a pensioner and member of NUP Integrity Group, said that many of the Federal pensioners were in Lagos.

According to him, there are

no ghost pensioners in Lagos as there are details of those who are sick, those who have died and those who are alive.

“About 80 per cent of us have not been paid till date,’’ Phillips said.

He said that some of them, who retired after 28 years of service, were paid 10 years gratuity, while government had yet to pay them for the remaining 18 years.

Phillips urged the Federal Government to take the plight of pensioners more seriously.

8 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Abuja Nigeria Begins Production Of HIV/AIDS Drugs The commissioner also said OWERRI - The Imo Police For ECOWAS Command has said it had arrested a suspected illegal firearms dealer in Udume Ogwa, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of the state.

The suspect was arrested while negotiating the sale of a pump action rifle to a prospec-

tive buyer.

The Police Commissioner in the state, Musa Katsina, said 13 pump action rifles, assorted rifle parts, 750 live cartridges and a carton of security torch lights were recovered from the suspect.

Land Compensation

Villagers Give Deadline JOS - Villagers in Heipang, Barkin Ladi Local Government of Plateau have given the state government up to August to pay compensation on Inland Dry Port layout or loose it.

The villagers are demanding for the payment of N600,000 on each of the plots in the layout against an initial N1 million demanded.

Mr Danladi Gukas, Barkin Ladi Area Officer, Ministry of Lands and Survey, announced this to the ministry’s Commissioner, Mr. Yilji Gomwalk, who was on familiarisation tour to all area offices in the state.

“The dry inland port Heipang is our first commercial layout initiated since Oct. 6, 2005 but whose negotiation was completed on March 13, 2007.

“Non payment of compensation has provoked the farmers/ villagers who began to sell the plots but when we intervened they stopped.

“But they have given us up to end of this August to pay the compensation of N600,000 or lose it; they are ready to sell the plots at N1 million each to in-

terested individuals, “ he said.

Gukas appealed to the state government to rise to the challenge so as not to lose the place, saying “we have actually done our best as planning is supposed to go before development “.

that a bullet proof jacket with the inscription “Nigeria Police” and the initials of the Police Commissioner were recovered from the suspect.

Katsina said the suspect had said during interrogation that he was working for his uncle.

The command also arrested four students of the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, for allegedly kidnapping of one Anthony Enoh, a student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

The suspects were arrested while trying to collect ransom from the family of their victim.

The commissioner said the suspects would be charged to court soon.

L-R: ACN Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande; former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State and his wife, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi at the inauguration of Mokola Bridge in Ibadan recently.

Oronsaye Report: FG Considers Commercialisation Of River Basin ABUJA - The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has concluded deliberations on the review of the report of the Presidential Committee on the Restructuring and Rationalisation of Government Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies.

The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, made the statement while briefing State House correspondents on the outcome of the FEC meeting presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan.

It could be recalled that the council had devoted its meeting of June 12 and June 19 to deliberations on the report of the committee, chaired by a former Head of Civil Service of the

Federation, Mr. Stephen Oronsaye.

Maku said that details of the FEC decisions of a draft white paper on the Oronsaye report would be made public after the Council Secretariat had “cleaned it up’’.

The minister, however, hinted that river basin Authorities across the country might be commercialised while research institutes under the ministry of Science and Technology would be re-aligned.

“From what the council had done, it is very clear that major decisions will be taken in many of the key sectors to reduce the numbers of agencies, particularly those that are performing

duplicating duties and whose functions overlap.

“I give you an example, there are so many research agencies under the Ministry of Science and Technology and when you look at the agencies, some of the functions they perform could, indeed, be coordinated by universities.

“Today, council believes that it is important that research must utilise the university and also be linked to the private sector.

“So we agreed to rationalise some of the agencies and also see which of those research agencies could be better placed under the supervision of exist-

Civil Defence Corps Arrests 3 Drug Peddlers DUTSE - The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Thursday said it had arrested three suspected drug peddlers in Jigawa.

The Commandant of the corps in the state, Mr. Muhammad Gidado told

FRSC officials and sympathisers battling to rescue a driver and his passenger trapped in a drug delivery van that rammed into thepillar of a bridge on the Abuja-Kubw expressway recently

newsmen in Dutse that the suspects were arrested at their hide out in Ringim Local Government Area of the state.

Gidado said that the three suspects were nabbed with different brands of hard drugs, adding that they

would be handed over to the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), for further action.

He also announced the recovery of 10 cartons of rubber solution and several bags of cannabis at the residence

of another suspected drug dealer in Gumel Local Government.

Gidado however said the man had escaped but assured that the NSCDC would track him down and bring him to justice.

ing universities to perform better.

“In addition to this, we also believe that research that is disconnected from industry does not produce result.

“So, we believe that research centres should also concentrate on new ideas, new technology, new researches and that research should be driven by industry,’’ he said.

Maku also said that river ba-

sins spread across the country would be commercialised to drive mechanised agriculture that was private sector driven.

“We are of the opinion that river basins across the country have been there, some, since 1970s.

“If we look at the collective results of their work, we find out that there is a need, if we are to use those river basins to produce food for this country, to align our water policies.

Abia Govt Plan Multi-Million Naira Waste Recycling UMUAHIA - The Abia government is to build a waste recycling plant in Aba, the Deputy General Manager of the Abia Environmental Protection Agency, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has said.

Ikpeazu, who heads the Aba zone of the agency, told newsmen in Umuahia that the government was consulting with willing investors on the project.

He said that waste generated daily in Aba, the commercial hub of the state, stood at more than 750,000 tonnes, adding that ‘’the waste is on the increase because markets spring up in Aba almost on weekly basis’’.

Ikpeazu described waste in the area as multi-mix, adding that apart from domestic cooking gas and organic manure, the waste from Aba could be recycled into other economic purposes.

He said the agency planned to introduce the use of three refuse bins to sort out refuse at primary sources. ‘’We intend to have a green waste bin for bio-degradable wastes like vegetables and fruits, another one for non-

bio-degradable wastes like plastics, spoons, metals, while the other bin would be for items that did not fall into the two categories,’’ he said.

Ikpeazu said his priority in the area was to clear the backlog of refuse in all parts of Aba before advancing to the waste recycling initiative. ‘’The waste-to-wealth initiative is a multi-million naira project and the Abia government cannot tackle it alone given other competing needs. Therefore, the government might require the involvement of the private sector in the project,’’ he said.

The official said the challenge posed by refuse in Aba required concerted efforts to tackle, pointing out that markets sprang up in Aba at will.

Ikpeazu said he would adopt a neighbourhood approach, whereby polluters would be engaged in the effort to keep the town clean.

He said that sanitation workers would henceforth use flood lights to clear refuses at night and called on the residents to support the new arrangement.

9

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Abuja Jega Pledges Electoral Malpractice Free-Election In 2015

Nigeria Begins Production Of HIV/AIDS Drugs For ECOWAS ABUJA - Nigeria is to begin mass production of HIV and AIDS drugs for use by member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchu Chukwu, has said.

Chukwu said this at the Africa-Korea partnership workshop on neglected tropical diseases in Abuja.

He said Nigeria was given the approval by ECOWAS based on the decision taken by the West African Health Organisation.

The minister, who did not give details of the proposal, however, called on the Republic of Korea to exploit the opportunity to invest in the country. “ For our Korea counterparts, please come and invest, you will not regret it, the laws are there to protect you if you invest, and that is the collaboration we want to have with you.

“The country is large, but beyond this country, the ECOWAS ministers of health have taken a stand under the West African health organisation that for the whole of the ECOWAS sub-region that Nigeria should be the country that should be producing the drugs for HIV. “The market is beyond what you have in Nigeria, you are

talking of a population of almost 300 million people and that will also extend to the rest of Africa.

“West Africa has the bulk of the population in Africa, and so I want you to seize the opportunity of this new development’’ Chukwu said Nigeria government would intensify its collaboration with the Korea government to ensure better understanding in the area of research and development.

He said the high level burden of neglected diseases in Africa required the development of indigenous pharmaceutical and health innovation capacity to address the issues.

R-L: The Most Rev’d Friday John Imaekhai, Bishop of Bendel Province, Sir (Dr.) Gabriel Igbinedion, Esama of Benin and Sir Prof. John Obemekhian during the presentation of an award by the Diocese of Esan Anglican Communion which took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Iruekpen recently. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

Ectopic Pregnancy Caused By Poor Management Of Infections - Expert ABUJA - An Abuja-based Gynaecologist, Dr Kayode Obende, said poor management of infection, congenital problems and contraceptive medications were the major predisposing factors to ectopic pregnancy.

Obende who works with the Garki General Hospital told newsmen that the warning signs include abdominal pain, bleeding and dizziness among others depending on the stage of the pregnancy.

According to him, ectopic pregnancy means pregnancy outside the womb; instead of

the pregnancy being inside the womb, it may be in the tube, ovary or in the abdominal cavity.

“It may be due to congenital problems, complications of infection like Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) or infection due to abortion that will destroy the tubes.

“Some drugs like progesterone, copper T Intra-uterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD); if a woman has copper T in place and she is pregnant there is a high chance of that pregnancy being ectopic.

“Intra-uterine contraceptive device is a method of preventing pregnancy; women put the copper T inside the womb to prevent pregnancy.

“A woman with ectopic pregnancy may present with missing of menses (emenorrhea); some with pains, vaginal bleeding and many will become dizzy, feel shock and even die,” he said.

Obende said the womb had muscles that could expand to accommodate a baby, “but for the tube such expansion is not possible and so it gets ruptured

Reinstate Retired Naval Officer, Court Orders ABUJA - The National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the Nigerian Navy to reinstate Lt.-CDR Isaac Okpanachi, who was compulsorily retired from service in 2010.

Justice Maureen Esowe, while delivering judgment also ordered the defendants to pay the claimant all his salaries, allowances and other entitlements due to him.

Esowe held that the reliefs sought, by the claimant, were not disputed by the defendants whose arguments that the claimant failed the promotion test at the Promotion Board, was not proved.

“The provisions of chapter 12.10 (E) of the Harmonised terms and Conditions of Service of the Armed Forces were not followed in retiring the claimant.

“There is no proof that the claimant was involved in examination malpractice while attending the senior staff course at the Staff College, Jaji.

“The defendants are hereby ordered to reinstate and promote the claimant without losing any seniority and be sent on similar course outside Nigeria immediately with all his entitlements paid,’’ Esowe ruled.

Okpanachi, who joined the service in 1986 as a Cadet Officer, told the court that the defendants retired him in December 2010 without following the proper procedure.

He prayed the court to declare that his compulsory retirement by the claimant was arbitrary, illegal and null and void.

The claimant also prayed the court to order the defendants to

reinstate and promote him to the rank he ought to be and pay all his entitlements.

It would be recalled that during hearing in the case, the claimant had told the court that the defendant retired him in violation of the directives of the Ministry of Defence.

Okpanachi, through his coun-

sel, Mr Sam Ameh, told the court that the defendant retired him on mere suspicion of engaging in examination malpractice when he attended the senior officer’s course.

Ameh told the court that his client was exonerated of the allegation by the Ministry of Defence and directed that he should be promoted and sent on the similar course elsewhere.

R-L: Sir Prof. John Osemeikhian, Sir (Dr.) Chief Francis Ulinfun, Dame G.A. Iyamah and Sir Peter Edeoghon at the 2nd session of the 4th Synod of the Diocese of Esan Anglican Communion which took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Iruekpen recently.

Photo: LUCKY AGIE.

after seven weeks.”

He also advised that doctors should look out for ectopic pregnancy whenever a woman of reproductive age complained of missing her period and lower abdominal pain.

Obende added that diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy should be based on a high index of suspicion.

He said that ultra sound scan and pregnancy test could be used to ascertain the position of the pregnancy and only if the pregnant woman reported early to hospital.

ABUJA - The Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof.

Attahiru Jega, has said that the commission would eliminate all forms of electoral malpractice by 2015.

He said this in Abuja during the 6th TEI lecture titled, “Political Parties and Effective Participation in Governance’’ organised by The Electoral Institute (TEI).

The INEC chairman said that the 2015 election would be the best ever conducted polls in the country.

He said the commission had taken delivery of the latest technology that would be used to eliminate multiple voting and registration by 2015.

He said the commission would use the new technology to issue chip-based permanent cards to all eligible voters.

“Some of the electronic card features are: micro testing security, hologram and finger prints; it will be an electronic card to be used for identification, authentication and voting.

“The card when introduced is expected to prevent multiple voting, frauds and also strengthen INEC’s efforts to clean up the nation’s electoral process.

MDGs Complete 5,532 Project In 113 LGAs ABUJA - The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) has completed 5,532 projects in 113 local government areas between 2011 and 2012, Dr Precious Gbeneol, Special Assistant to the President on MDGs, has said.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Media and Communication Consultant to Gbeneol, Mr Desmond Utomwen, in Abuja.

According to the statement, MDGs’ Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS) impacts for 2011 to 2012 expanded from 113 to 261 LGAs. “Under that MDGs’ Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS), 5,532 projects have been completed across 113 LGAs and 2,690 projects are ongoing across 36 states.

“Also, 6,200 projects under another scheme have been completed across 148 local government areas and 1,203 projects are ongoing in 11 states,’’ it said.

The statement said that projects were targeted at the extreme poor households with children aged 0-15 years as well

as pregnant women.

It added that MDGs would sustain focus on the issues that affected the extremely poor in the country “even as they continue to drive the transformation agenda with the MDGs. “Interventions aimed at addressing development gaps in the six geopolitical zones of the country covered areas such as education, health, water supply, small scale power supply, skills acquisition centres and community halls.

“In the area of health, the interventions instituted schemes for village health workers, community health insurance, community health extension workers and midwives,’’ it said.

According to the statement, lands, housing and urban development projects include the construction of 114 buildings comprising classroom blocks, health centres and community halls.

It added that Information Communication Technology (ICT) training centres and 2,397 solar street lights were also provided in some LGAs.

10 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Business and Economy SSS Arrests 2 Chinese Illegal Miners MINNA - The Department of State Services (DSS) in Niger has arrested two Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining, excavating and exporting of gem stones.

The Director of DSS in the state, Dr Larry Obiagwu, who said this when he briefed newsmen in Minna, said the suspects carried out their activities with their Nigerian collaborator.

Obiagwu said the Nigerian suspect acted as a mediator between the locals who dug for the stones and the Chinese at Koyugba Village in Jere ward of Paikoro Local Government Area.

He said the department placed surveillance in dense forests across the state, and particularly at Paikoro following a tip off.

He said the command’s investigation established that the suspects had spent about N3 million in settling the local diggers engaged in excavation of the gem stones.

The director said that they had plans of illicitly developing other mining sites that abound in the state but for their arrest.

According to him, the Chinese nationals will be arraigned at the Federal High Court in tandem with laws of the land and this will serve as deterrent to those foreigners

who thrive on impunity.

He said that their activities were against the Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 which prohibited exploration and or exploitation of Minerals without authority.

One of the suspects, who spoke through an interpreter, said he had been in Nigeria for the past two years doing the business of exportation with a registered company, Fosta.

He claimed that he had a license to do business in Nigeria, adding that he only went to Paikoro to buy the products.

Similar, Obiagwu said that the command arrested four suspects over their involvement in the vandalisation of armoured cables.

He said the cables belonged to the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and Nigeria Telecommunication Limited (NITEL) in Minna.

Obiagwu said the cables were stolen within Minna metropolis and were sold at different times at the Panteka market and the proceeds shared among the suspects.

“The activities of the suspect had caused serious damage to NITEL and PHCN infrastructure in Minna and they are being arraigned,’’ he said.

Rt. Hon. Uyi Igbe, Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly (left) and Comrade Amina Ebor, the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Edo State Chapter during the Association courtesy call to Mr. Speaker’s Office recently.

Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.

Dutse Abattoir To Begin Milk DUTSE - The Management of Production Dutse Abattoir, in Jigawa, has said the company would soon commence the production of milk for sale to the public.

Malam Muhammad Ibrahim, the Manager of the abattoir said in an interview with newsmen in Dutse that the company would start with various brands of yoghourts.

He said the company had commenced test production and market analyses on the acceptability of the product to consumers.

“What we are doing now is just a test production; we are now waiting for take off grant from the state government to start mass production,” he said.

According to him, the diversification from meat sale to milk production would boost the

company’s revenue and enhance its sustainability.

Ibrahim also said that the abattoir would engage in the production of hides and skins as well as minced and dry meat, as part of its business expansion programme.

Rt. Hon. Uyi Igbe, Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly (Arrow) in a group photograph with the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journallists (NAWOJ) and members during the Association courtesy call to Mr. Speaker’s Office recently. Photo: GODWIN ISEGUAN.

SIM Card Registration: Subscribers Bemoan Demand For Money

ABUJA - Mobile telephone subscribers have decried the demand for payment before registering SIM cards at some registration centres.

Some subscribers made the complaints in separate interviews with newsmen.

Mrs Sarah Odey, a civil

servant, told newsmen that she was asked to pay the sum of N100 before she could register her SIM card of one of the major service providers in the country..

Prices Of Perishable Goes Up In “The instability in the prices was due to so many factors and Kaduna the sellers could not change the

KADUNA - Prices of perishable foods have gone up by 100 per cent in Kaduna, a situation sellers attributed to the ending irrigation farming season.

Report that the prices of pepper had increased to N12, 000 per bag from N6, 000 in the last two months.

At the Bakin Dogo and Railway Station markets, price of a measure of tomatoes had also gone up to as much as N13, 500, far above the N6, 500 for a basket of tomatoes two months ago.

Similarly, a measure of onions goes for N400 as against N200, while a bag which was sold at N4, 500 during the same period now sells at N9, 000.

Mallam Shehu Ismaila, a tomatoes seller attributed the situation to absence of storage facilities for perishable products.

He said most of the products waste away due to farmers inability to preserve them, and appealed to all levels of

government to set up storage facilities to cut down farmers losses and control escalation in prices.

Ismaila said most tomatoes farmers had been compelled to venture into planting other products to avoid losses.

He also attributed the increase in prices to the forthcoming Muslim fasting period of Ramadan, when demand for the perishables was very high.

On his part, Malam Audu Abdullahi, who sales potatoes at the market, attributed the cost of the product to the rainy season.

According to him, Irish and Sweet potatoes do not thrive during the rains.

Reports also stated that a bag of Irish potatoes sold at N4, 500 in March was now selling at N9, 000.

“Sweet potato that was sold for N2, 000 per bag before and now is N4, 000 in the market.

situation or they would experience loss in their sales”, Abdullahi said.

Reports say that the prices of other foods items like rice, beans, millet, wheat and sugar have also increased by about 10 per cent.

Odey said that the agent registering for the network provider at Nyanya Plaza in Nyanya, FCT insisted that she must pay before her SIM could be registered.

“I was asked to pay N100 by the agent registering for the network at Nyanya Plaza before he could register me.

“And when I refused to pay, he asked me to leave the queue and the man next to me paid and was registered.

“I want the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to do something about this act of corrupt network

agents defrauding the public.’’

Odey called on the commission to investigate this act of fraud and arrest the accomplice.

Mr Johnson Attah, a clothes seller, told newsmen that he paid the sum of N100 before he was registered at Ado junction in Mararaba axis in Nasarawa State.

Attah told newsmen that he paid the money as soon as he was asked to pay because of the stress of registering his SIM card.

He explained that he registered in 2012, only to

receive an SMS that he should come and register his SIM card again.

“I went to the office of the provider to register my SIM but the queue was so long and at the end of the day I was unable to register it.

“I paid the N100 because of the stress I encountered while trying to register my SIM card but some persons in the queue refused to pay and as soon as I registered, I was sent a message that my SIM had been registered.’’

Attah told newsmen that it was unfair for the providers to demand for money before SIM cards could be registered, “I am calling on the regulator to tackle t

Micro-Finance Stabilisation Fund Underway “We nationally are working on

LAGOS – Mr. Jethro Akun, the President of the National Association of Microfinance Banks (NAMB), has said that the association was planning a “Microfinance Stabilisation Fund ’’ to assist its members.

Akun told newsmen in Lagos that the idea would enable the association to have enough liquidity to address financial deficits in the sub-sector.

He said members with financial challenges should be able to access funds at reduced interest rates.

Akun said that the association

was also working on modalities to attract more indigenous investors into the microfinance industry to complement the foreign investors.

The NAMB boss said that the 2012 International Microfinance Investors Forum had improved the sub-sector financially, adding that the association would not relent in organising similar programmes.

“Last year, we had the first ever International Investors Forum where we had over 10 investors from overseas in addition to our local investors

- Association

and we had over 700 delegates at that Investors’ forum.

“Since then, we have been working on that and our aim is to be able to have a private fund put together to try and fill in the gap particularly on liquidity problems and ease of getting funds at reduced rate.

“We have not relent on that, we have also asked our members internally to come up with the initiative.

“Like Lagos State have come up with NAMBLAG Trust Fund, Abuja too working on that.

Microfinance Stabilisation Fund because we believe that the more funds we have, the merrier for microfinance banks so that they can have choices and that will eventually reduce the interest rate.’’

Akun said that the association had also encouraged state chapters to organise inter-bank lending to assist one another.

He said that the whole idea was to complement the efforts of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in making intervention funds available to the microfinance sub-sector.

11

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

12 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

THE basic fundamental of all economies is agriculture and all industrial nations know this.

That their economies are on solid rock is basically because they have galvanized their agricultural potentials, which is also the offshoot of their industrial development That is why concerned citizens of Nigeria have continued to warn on the dangers of continued dependence by the nation on crude oil which is today the mainstay and sustaining source of the Nigerian economy.

THE traditional focus of the Nigerian economy before the discovery of crude oil in commercial quantity was agriculture and it played a fundamental role in shaping the economy of the nation and regions as Nigeria was then constituted in its immediate post independence era.

IN the 1960s, each region of the country was noted for producing some cash crops such as cocoa, groundnut and palm oil as well as rubber in commercial quantities. Basically, the Wet tern region, now the political South West except Lagos which was the Federal Capital, was noted for producing cocoa in large commercial quantities for export. The revenue from cocoa helped in shaping the infrastructure and economic environment of then Western Nigeria and its legacies and landmarks were -very very visible, as they affected virtually all aspects of life of the people.

IN the Northern region, groundnut was the mainstay of the economy, to the extent that the volume produced in the region was typified by the “groundnut pyramid�. It symbolized the success of the crop as a veritable earner of revenue which impacted economically on the life of the people.

IN the Eastern region, palm oil was its pre-

Improving National Agricultural Output dominant feature and similarly, it was a success in boosting the economic atmosphere of the country and the region. Interestingly, it is now an irony that Nigeria has been relegated to the background in palm oil production and has been overtaken by Malaysia, a country which took the Nigerian specimen of the plant, palm kernel, and adapted it to its own climatic condition and is today a leading producer of palm oil, which is a major derivative of palm kernel.

SIGNIFICANTLY, the Midwest region was noted for its rubber plantation and was quite a huge success as the crop played its role as a major economic transformation agent to shore up principally the economy of the region.

WE are concerned that there is slow progress in returning to the traditional focus of reviving these cash crops as major sources of revenue for the Federal Government.

HOWEVER, we are aware that not too long ago, the Federal Government launched the Cocoa Rebirth Initiative, as launch pad to regenerate interest in the crop and encourage farmers who have abandoned the plant to come back on the scene to make cocoa play its role in the national economy.

THE NIGERIAN OBSERVER implores the Federal Government to similarly create avenues for other cash crops as well as sensitise farmers to take proactive action towards their cultiva-

tion.

WHILE the Federal Government has shown the interest to refocus attention to agriculture, there appears to be so much disinterest in the way it has pursued the goal.

THERE is no conscious effort to empower small scale farmers to undertake mechanized farming for greater yields, as this is still the exclusive preserve of the elite farmers. Thus, farmers who are interested in expansion have no way of coping with the financial demands to undertake mechanized farming. Access to bank loans is uncertain with high interest rate, serving as enough scare to discourage the desire for any expansion.

WHILE the banks may have played significant roles in the past in assisting farmers, they did so purely on the initiative of the individual farmers and therefore expect in the new arrangement as already envisaged, a friendly lending terms that will encourage investment in the agricultural sector. THE NIGERIAN OBSERVER now calls on the Federal Government to consider an upward review of allocation to the agricultural sector. Amounts always allocated in the budget have been a pointer of the genuineness of government’s commitment to the agricultural sector.

WE assert that improving the national agricultural output should be devoid of any prohibition that will limit access to the fund by small scale farmers whose contributions to agricultural development form part of the concerted effort of the production chain that will lift the nation out of the continued dependence on oil.

13 THE nature of man is inherently inclined to practice the values of character praised in the Book. Allah revealed the Quran, the unique source explaining the values most conforming with the natural inclination of mankind. A man attains true bliss, satisfaction and peace only when he displays complete obedience to the commands of Allah, openly as well as secretly, with wholesome eagerness. Allah relates this in the following verse.

So set your face firmly towards the religion, as a pure natural believer, Allah’s natural believer, Allah’s natural pattern on which. He made mankind. There is no changing Allah’s creation.

That is the true religion – but most people do not know it – turning .towards him... (Surat Ar-Rum: 30-31).

Those who do not observe Allah’s limits and ignore the Qur’anic values incur unthinkable trouble in their lifetime. That is simply because in a society where the bounties of Allah are abused, the criteria upon which one determines the right and wrong alter from one person to another. Hence millions of different criteria ceaselessly clash with each other. By statement starting with. “In my opinion, every individual endeavours to impose his own conviction on others. He orients the conduct of his daily life to gaining personal interests. However, in the Qur’an, man is summoned to a single truth, to the path of Allah.

Its not devoutness to turn your face to the East or to the West. Rather those with true devoutness are those who believe in.’Allah and the Last Day, the Angels the Book, and the Prophets, and who, despite their love for it give away their wealth to their relatives, and to Orphans and the very poor, and to travellers and beggars and to set slaves free, and who establish salat (the prayer) and pay zakat (regular charity); those who honour their contracts when they make them, and are steadfast in poverty and, in illness and in battle. Those. are the people who are true. They are the people who have taqwa.(Surat alBaqarah: 177) Adherence to the Quran in an effort to seek Allah’s Countenance and to attain His good pleasure, makes a believer always pursue perfection in manners. Such a person always seeks the good for others and does it for no price at all. Furthermore, he does not do it to be appreciated. In compliance with the command of Allah, he reacts to bad behaviour with excellent character. He has fear of Allah, and all his attitudes, decisions and reactions reflect this fear. That is why, at any moment, he demonstrates exemplary virtuous conduct as much as he is able.

Neverthe1ess there exists no mechanism or reason preventing a man from engaging in misdeeds who does not fear Allah and who believes All praises are due to Almighty Allah Who takes life and gives it. And all praises are due to Almighty Allah who will resurrect the dead. All the Majesty, Glory, Sovereignty, Omnipotence and Praise are all due to Him. And He has power over all things.

All praises are also due to Almighty Allah Who will remain forever after all the living things has come to an end. He will surely remain forever. He is the One who is perfect in His Glory and Perfect in His Oneness. He was there when there was nothing and He will be when there will be nothing. (He has no beginning and no end. He is Eternal and Everlasting.

ALLAH the Exalted has in His Glorious Books (45:24) while reacting to those who disbelieve concerning the Day of Resurrection. And they (the unbelievers) say: “There is nothing but our life of this world, we live and we die and nothing destroys us except (Ad-Dahr) time. They only speculate and presume.

NOTE: Almighty Allah says: “The son of Adam annoys Me when he curses time (or blame time for his mistakes and shortcomings). While I am time. In my hands are all matters, I cause the revolution or alternation of Day and Night.

He said further, I am the Creator of Time, and I manage the affairs of all creation including Time.

One should not attribute anything whether positive or negative to Time, for everything is in the Hands of Allah and Only He is the Disposer of Everything.

Almighty Allah (the Most Exalted) addresses the Holy Prophet Muhammad (May Allah be pleased with him) – Say to them, O’ Prophet that “Allah gives you life, the causes you to die, then He will assemble you on the Day of Resurrection about which there is no doubt, But moist of Mankind know not”.

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Man Is Commanded To Conduct Himself Correctly “A person, however, should be aware of the fact that he personally possesses nothing of which to be proud.

If his arrogance is due to his possessions, then he should know that the heavens, the earth and everything in between belong solely to Allah. Allah grants wealth, intelligence, good looks and skills to man and it is only a matter of a moment for Him to take them back” that when death befalls him even if in a few de- pleasure of Allah., Man is responsible to nobody

cades he will cease to exist for all eternity. It is else but Allah. It is only Allah Who will judge not reasonable to expect such a person to be pa- man on the Day of Judgernent. Therefore, it is tient, generous or to remain loyal to somebody not sensible to resort to lies and insincere else for no price. Such a person simply has no behaviour under the’ guidance of selfish Inter‘reason to ‘display excellent character, except for ests and motives. So, ‘don ‘t plead ignorance of the cowardly thought that if he doesn’t harm oth- the fact that you have no alternative but to be ers perhaps they won’t harm him and if he shows sincere and honest in your conduct while Allah good conduct to them perhaps they will show it surrounds you and hears and sees whatever you to him. On the contrary, he believes such virtu- do. Another indication of good character is modous conduct to be idiotic and a mere loss, except esty. Arrogance and modesty can never remain in the selfish form we note. That is because, he together. -It is obvious that an arrogant person believes he will not be rewarded in return for can neither nurture love and mercy in his heart his good deeds in this world and he has no faith for others nor be generous. A person, however, in the Hereafter. In this respect, he overcomes should be aware of the fact that he personally every obstacle to attain his selfish goals. Man is possesses nothing of which to be proud. If his prone to abstain from things likely to harm him. arrogance is due to his possessions, then he Especially, if he believes he will receive punish- should know that the heavens, the earth and evment in return for bad behaviour he will never erything in between belong solely to Allah. Aldare to do it. Yet, people who are distant from lah grants intelligence, good looks and skills to religion do not refrain from such behviour, ex- man and it is only a matter of a moment for Him to take them back. Furthermore, man is mortal. cept from shortsighted self-interest.

So don’t pretend you don’t grasp that the true He wi1l go lone into the presence of Allah, leavvalues can only be displayed when people ob- ing everything granted him behind. Allah also serve the limits of Allah. Otherwise, degenera- states in the Quran that those who are arrogant in this world tion prevails. If will be you also want to humbled belead a beautiful fore Him. life in this world, This is keep. in mind surely the that you have to truth. Man turn to the relihas nothing to gion of Allah. take pride in.

The sincerity No matter ‘and honesty of a how wealthy, person are the beautiful, fabasic indications mous or reof the character Every Friday With spected you values with Mallam Ikponmwosa Abdulfattah Enabulele which he, strives are, don ‘t Chief Imam of Benin to earn the good pretend you

Voice of Islam

A Momentary Transition

NOTE: The disintegration of man’s physical tabernacle does not mean the end of his life. Death is only a change of state or form. After its flight from the physical habitat, human soul is given another body, which grows and develops and takes forms which it is not possible for man to know or even to conceive of.

I think there is need for us to sometime talk and remember ourselves about death because it is a compulsory debt we all have to pay. It is an unavoidable end. An inevitable reality. And an inescapable event. Every soul will surely taste death. And to ALLAH, we shall all go back to meet Him. In order to put some senses into our head, because many of us are behaving as if we will never die. We forget so easily that we came into this would with nothing – we came in a naked state. We all are also going to leave this world with nothing. All that we have all acquired in terms of wealth, money, power, respect and knowledge are only values of this world, which will one day slip out of our hands. We must therefore be very mindful of our actions on earth.

Almighty Allah, in the Glorious Qur’an, which guides humanity to the true path, repeat-

edly reminds us of the temporary nature of this world, of death, the existence of the life beyond and the need to prepare for it, summoning us to clarity of mind and consciousness. Likewise, all the messengers of Allah invited their peoples to the religion of truth and only demanded of them that they redirect their hearts and their deeds for the sake of Allah. The moment of death is the beginning of a day when the deeds of all people will be reckoned.

So, never plead ignorance of the fact that death is the key to the gate of the eternal abode. Spend your life without forgetting the fact of death.

Never plead ignorance of the fact that the possessions of this life will remain behind in this world. Avoid the deep regret people will feel in the hereafter.

Never plead ignorance of the fact that those who avoid the thought of death will face a fearsome end.

Never plead ignorance of the fact that a person merely deceives himself by assuming that death is far from him. And being aware of this fact, spend your life in earning the good pleasure of Allah.

Never abandon yourself to this heedlessness,

“O mankind! It is you who stand in need of Allah, but Allah is Rich (free of all needs), worthy of all Praises. He says, if He (Allah) willed, He could destroy you and brings about a new creation instead.

And that is not hard or difficult for Allah to do”

don ‘t grasp this fact!

What will make a man fortunate is the good character with which he strives to attain the good pleasure of Allah, and his submission to Him. Allah gives a detailed account of virtuous, blessed behaviour and attitudes in the Qur’an.

Below, the typical attributes of an individual who is sincerely devoted to Allah and who is aware that he will be judged can be listed as follows: Reliability, Forgiveness, Repelling evil with good, Having mercy for believers, .

Not being led astray by rage, Engaging in good deeds for no price or reward, Remaining consistently temperate in one’s approach to people Avoiding ridiculing people because of jealousy and selfishness, Speaking graciously to people, Keeping promises and trusts, Being a reliable witness, Avoiding vain talk and trifling, Being generous, Settling matters wisely Being patient, The attributes of believers listed above are only the basic ones. On the Day of Judgement, man will be judged according to what actions he has done and these attributes. Those who have these attributes in this world and who have acted according to the Book, on the other hand, will be rewarded with a beautiful life. Allah gives the good tidings to those who believe: When those who have .taqwa of Allah are asked, “What has your Lord sent down?” their reply is, “Good!” There is good in the world for those who do good, and the abode of the Hereafter is even better. How wonderful is the: abode of those who have taqwa: Gardens of Eden which they enter, with rivers flowing under them, where they have whatever they desire. That is how Allah repays those who have taqwa. (Surat anNahi: 30-31) Not so All who submit themselves completely to Allah and are good-doers will find their reward with their Lord. They will fee no fear and will know no sorrow. (Surat a! Baqarah! 112) No matter under which circumstances you are, it is essential for your eternal life that you never plead ignorance of the fact that you have to live up to the values of the Qur’an. which seizes many people; and never plead ignorance of the fact that death is but a momentary transition and that it is very close to very soul.

Almighty Allah says: O mankind! It is you who stand in need of Allah, but Allah is Rich (free of all needs), worthy of all Praises. He says, if He (Allah) willed, He could destroy you and brings about a new creation instead. And that is not hard or difficult for Allah to do.

In the Book of Zabura, Almighty Allah says: Do what I Allah enjoin you to do and keep away from that which I forbid you. Do not think of yourself as ever-living, who will never die. I (Allah) am the living Who will never die. Whenever I desire a thing, I only say to it: “Be” and it is.

Did you think that we had created you in play without any purpose and that you would not be brought back to us? And Allah grants respite to none when his appointed time of death comes.

And All-Aware of what you do. And every nation or people has its appointed term to die; when their term comes, neither can they delay it nor can they advance it an hour or for a moment.

We have decreed death to you all and we cannot be stopped or hindered (i.e. no one can prevent Us from carrying out this decreed).Everyone shall taste death and unto Us shall you all return. Whatsoever is on the earth will perish and no person can ever die except by Allah’s permission at an appointed term. (a fixed term which have been decreed). And wherever you may be death will overtake you even if you are in fortresses or tower built-up strong and high.

Verily, the death from which you are running or afraid of will surely meet you, and then you will be sent or returned back to Allah, the All knower of the unseen and the seen. And He will inform you about all that you use to do (both secretly and openly).

14 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

15

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

16 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Royalty IT was a royal climax to a royal birthday celebration as the palace ground of our Royal father the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Erediauiwa was packed full with important personalities both home and abroad to grace the special birthday party organized for a revered monarch.

The atmosphere in the palace with the good weather condition tell the story that even heaven recognized the importance of the day and the personality involved as such ensure that we had a fine atmosphere throughout the period of the celebration to enable all present have a nice time while the event lasted.

The atmosphere at the venue tells the story as royalty could be sensed everywhere. The attires wore by guests, family members of the royal house hold, cultural troups and the environment were symbolic as they truly reflect the celebration of a revered Monarch and a King loved by his people.

As early as 9:00am the roads leading to the palace venue for the celebration were barricaded by security personnel drawn from the Nigerian police, civil service defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, Anti-Bomb Squad, State Security Service (SSS) and other

security agencies, they were all on ground to ensure a peaceful, successful and crime-free celebration party for the Oba of Benin.

It was carnival-like with both traditional, cultural and music of popular Nigerian Artists rented the air for guests present as well as passers-by who could not but shaked their bodies to the rhythms of the music. At the palace ground, there was much to eat, drink and to take home, as none of the guest both the high, powerful and the ordinary Edo people complain of no enough food as all eat to satisfaction during the celebration party.

For those who find time to be part of the event, they will agree with me that the programme tagged “ROYAL CELEBRATION” lived up to expectation as the event was royal indeed with a royal touch in terms of the decoration of the venue, the settings, the podium and other arrangements. Those who graced the occasion felt royalty even though they were not from a royal family. All guests present at the occasion were treated in a royal way without any discrimination of any sort.

No matter his or her position in the society, all were treated in a special way.

This year’s event was unique as the entire

Celebrating Oba Erediauwa

Kingdom joined hands together to celebrate a respected King who has contributed in no little way to the development of the Kingdom, the state and the nation. This Iconic King has been able to attract development and progress to the land. There is no other way to say thank you to the Oba than coming out enmasse to join others to celebrate the Oba of Benin.

The absence of the Oba did not affect the celebration as the heir apparent to the great throne of the Kingdom was present to represent the Oba, supported by the queens of our royal father and members of the royal family.

The governor of Edo state who has benefited in no little way from the wealth of experience of the Oba was present at the occasion as the guest of honour and he spoke elegantly to shower praises on the Oba of Benin who he described as a pillar of unity and a traditional ruler extralordinary. The governor said with the caliber of personalities and guest that graced the occasion, it was evidence that the Oba is not just a royal father but a man with dignified honour.

The deputy governor of the state Dr. Pius Odubu was also on ground to

celebrate with the monarch. Other notable personalities seen celebrating with the Oba of Benin include, the Chief Judge of Edo State Justice Cromnwell Idahosa, the Head of Services Princess Ekiuwa Enih, Commissioner for

Chairman Hon. Osaro Obaze and a host of others.

The Crown Prince Ambassador Eheneden Erediauwa, the Edaiken N’Uselu was beaming with smiles while the celebration lasted. The event has truly and surely shown that the Edo people

By RICHARD

sincere in the way disputes are settled among aggrieved parties in the Kingdom without fear or favour.

The Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa who represented his father, the

thei W the Prin the in th spir cut lov

Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa and the wives of the Oba cuting Oba Erediauwa bir

Oil and gas, Hon. Orobosa Omo-Ojo, Women Afairs, Hon. Blessing Maigida, Sport, Hon. Uwaifo, Local government and chieftancy tiltle Hon. Lucky James, Oredo

Governore Adams Oshiomhole (6th left) Deputy Governor Pius Odubu (3rd left) Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa (speaking with a microphone) the Oba’s wives nd other royal family members

both home and abroad likewise the none Edos revered this great Monarch who over the years on the throne serve his people with purity of heart and has equally been

Oba of Benin cut the birthday cake on behalf of his father and was flanked by wives of the Oba and other members of the royal family who were there to celebrate with

The Oba’s wives at the birthday celebration

with birth it is are pala hav cele

17

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Royalty

a, The Gift Of God To Humanity OKORO-EWEKA

ir father.

While cutting the cake at e event, the Crown nce said “on behalf of entire Bini people and he name of God and the rit of our ancestors, I t this cake. With the e shown to my father

want to thank you all for coming to grace this wonderful occasion. I thank all the cameramen, the media for a large turnout and also to commend the organizers of the great event, and everyone that has made this all important event successful”.

rthday cake

h the large turnout at his hday celebration today, obvious that the people truly at home with the ace. I’m delighted to ve you all here to ebrate our father. I also

The joy of the people showed that the Oba of Benin is a true King of the people that is well loved.

He is also regarded as a living ancestor mediating between the people of the

Kingdom and their ancestors. The Oba has continued to get loyalty from the people of the Kingdom for he has proven to be a loyal servant of the people over the years and have dedicated himself to the service of humanity.

Lagos was heavily represented in the celebration as the Oba of Lagos HRH Oba Akinolu led a powerful and large delegation to Benin to be the guest of the Oba and the people of the Kingdom as well as felicitate with the reverend Monarch Oba Eradiauwa. Thanking God for the celebration and the good health of the Oba, the Oba of Lagos described himself as the grandson of the Oba of Benin. He prays for many more years of celebration for the Benin Monarch.

The climax of the extralordinary birthday celebration was moved to Holy Arosa Cathedral venue for the thanks giving service held for the Oba, to thank God for the success of the entire event which officially started with a party for the children, followed by a relaunch of his famous book titled “I REMAIN SIR, YOUR LOYAL SERVANT”, a dinner party for guests of the palace and finally, a thanksgiving service.

Delivery a sermon at Holy Arosa, Ohen Osa Harrison Okao said only those endorsed with uncommon anointing are favoured with good health and longevity. He said it is gratifying to note that in service and in giving to mankind, the Oba of Benin has not been found

celebration. The city experienced a special carnival parade and cultural display and dances which depict the rich cultural heritage of the Benin people. The carnival moved round some major streets in the state capital with various

Kingdom.

The carnival ended at the palace ground while the queens of the royal house hold, princes, princesses, chiefs and other personalities were on ground to watch the various groups do what they know how to do best “DANCE”. This type of ROYAL BIRTHDAY has never been witnessed in the history of this great

Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, Osani Elamah and other guest at the Oba’s birthday

wanting as he has continually demonstrated that he is at the fore front of making lives better for the Edo people.

The thanksgiving was rounded up with a prayer for the Benin Monarch, his family and the entire Kingdom.

The celebration was rounded off by a special carnival parade held in the capital to put an icing on the cake of the birthday

traditional dance groups exhibiting mastery and show of creativity in various dances chosen.

This carnival saw long trucks, trailers decorated, and dancers doing what they know how to do best as the vehicles moves along the streets. The show afforded the public the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the great Benin

Oseretin culture group performing at the Oba’s birthday

Kingdom of Benin, the cradle of black civilization.

The birthday celebration may have come and gone but memory of the event will remain long in the minds of the Edo people who were proud to be part of the entire celebration from start to finish.

I S E L O G B E UMOGUN! OBA GHA TO KPERE, ISE!

18 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Art Alive

With Francis U. Odupute

Effective Methods Of Communicating Museum Objects To The Public

THE synopsis or concept of this paper is basically to highlight some important ways or methods through which Museum Education Officer can carry along or capture the minds and intense interest of the visiting public in the understanding and appreciation of the displayed objects in the Museum galleries. It is further aimed at developing or building the potential capacity of Museum Education Officers with the current trends of communicating Museum Objects to the public which will in turn serve as a catalyst in the motivation of visitors to continually visiting the Museum galleries without getting bored or tired.

For a clear understanding of this subject it is important to first make some clarifications by way of definition of some key terms or words, amongst these terms are: Museum, Museum objects or exhibits, Museum Public, Communication and Museum Education Officers.

MUSEUM: The definition of a Museum has evolved in line with developments in society.

Since its creation in 1946, ICOM- International Council of Museums updates this definition in accordance with the realities of the global Museum community.

According to the ICOM statutes adopted during the 21st General Conference in Vienna, Australia, in 2007, “A Museum is a non-profit permanent institution in the service of the society and its development, open to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibit the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment for the purpose of education, Study and e n j o y m e n t ” .

MUSEUM EXHIBITS/ OBJECTS: Museum exhibits are objects in the collection of a Museum which illustrates an aspect of culture or any subject matter and are used as reference materials or as objects of aesthetic or educational importance.

MUSEUM PUBLIC: According to the World Book Dictionary; the public means “of or belonging to the people as a whole. Public also means” of pertaining to or affecting the people as a whole or the community, state or nation. In addition it means the people constituting a community, state or nation.

Since the Museum according to the ICOM definition is “ in the service of the society and its development” the Museum publics consist of all the people as a whole. The Museum public cut across children, young people, edged, school, those that visit the Museum and even those that do not visit.

C O M M U N I C AT I O N :

Communication simply put is the process of passing or sending messages or information from one person to another. According to Richard H. Hall (1977), communication is both the art and the science of getting through to people. It is a process by which we convey or relay our ideas, feelings, sentiments, information and opinions to others for a definite purpose. The way the Museum collections are interpreted and presented to the public by education officers is communication.

MUSEUM EDUCATION OFFICERS: Museum education can be defined as the “totality of educational activities including amongst others, exhibitions development and educational programmes which are undertaken by a Museum to effectively communicate with a diverse public using Museum collection; tangible and intangibles, as its resources, guide and catalyst” (P.D.A) program for Museum Development in Africa.

Museum education is a specialized field devoted to developing and strengthening of Museums role as institutions. The purpose of Museum education is to enhance visitors’ ability to understand and appreciate Museum collections.

Museum education is an indebt transfer of important cultural information using Museum exhibits for the purpose of imparting knowledge to members of the public. It is an instrument used in facilitating integration of young and old as well as creating awareness in individuals of their potential as creative and critical human beings.

Furthermore Emmanuel Arinze one the pioneers of Museum education expressed his view that Museum education is an intellectual and practical translation of abstract framework of Museum activities into intellectual understandable positive realities through non-formal and non-rigid methods. This means that all types and shades of humans can be educated in the Museum ranging from small children, youths, adults, the young and the old, the disable/handicapped, the educated and non-educated people, in all work of life.

Based on the above definitions, the Museum education officers are simply the Museum professionals responsible for communicating to the diverse public or community, heritage resources under the custody of the Museum through various educational enlightenment programmes. Thus the unit is a specialized unit consisting of officers having the responsibility of imparting cultural information to

members of the purposes of study, knowledge and enjoyment. The unit through the education officers makes available to schools, colleges groups and individuals all educational potential and facilities in the Museum not only in the aesthetic appreciation but also in the intellectual understanding of the circumstances and periods from which the art pieces came and the messages they carry.

From the above analysis it is very obvious that the Museum education officers serve as bridge between the Museum and the public.

It is their sole duty to ensure that visitor to the Museum galleries get excited with the cultural displays and keep on coming without getting bored or tires of visiting the Museum galleries.

METHODS OF C O M M U N I C AT I N G MUSEUM OBJECTS TO THE PUBLIC BY MUSEUM EDUCATION OFFICERS A Museum education officer can effectively communicate Museum objects to the public through various ways or methods, some of these methods include the following: 1. GUIDED TOURS: Guided tour is a system of communicating the Museum objects to the public by way of conducting school groups or visiting publics round the gallery by translating and interpreting the objects into reality so that they can really understand the messages each

By ALONGE JOSEPH TOMILAYO

of the objects on display are carrying instead of mere look and see.

The oral explanations or information offered by the education officers to the visitors will expose them to see the objects as collection of cultural and historical values than mere objects of aesthetic value.

2.

DIAGRAMS, PHOTOGRAPHS, LABELS OR CAPTIONS: Another method an education officer can effectively communicate Museum objects to the public is through the use of diagrams, photographs,

labels or caption. These are important instructional materials which an education officer cannot avoid in the dispensation of his educational interpretation of the Museum objects to the visiting public, the education officer uses the instructional materials e.g. photographs as supportive aids for the stimulation of audience, and by reading the captions or labels vis-à-vis photographs or pictures by the visiting publics or tourists they are better informed with adequate knowledge of the objects on display. Diagrams and captions allow visitors to have personal interaction with the objects through

reading, however with an education officer on ground with his or her professional techniques or tactics of introducing the objects before the audience they catch a clearer understanding of the objects information or messages stated on the captions or labels.

3. FILMS/AUDIO VISUAL SHOWS: The Museum education officer can also communication Museum exhibits to public through the use of films or audio-visual shows. Audio visuals are instructional materials containing both sound and sight i.e. it has the ability of presenting information to audience by hearing and seeing simultaneously. Example of audio-visual materials are films, slide, projector, video, tape, T.V, radio-cassette players, computers etc; through these education materials information in motion pictures or photograph or objects, events, dances, stories etc, can be presented to the eyes by being thrown onto a screen with the aid of a projector.

The Museum education officers in the same vein can use audio-visuals to reach the public through adequate compilations of cultural and historical films from libraries and achieves and show them to the public. Also video tapes containing narrations and process of making artifacts of contemporary arts such as basketry, broom making, bronze casting, pottery making etc can be put together and show on Television or through slide projectors to the public for a better understanding of the Museum objects. The education officers by their professional style can intermittently pause while the film is going on and give short or brief explanations of what is on screen display.

These methods have the advantage of arousing and stimulating the intense interest of the viewing public or audience and further motivate them to come to the Museum galleries to see more in order to satisfy their curiosity.

4. DANCE, DRAMA AND SINGING: Another important strategy of motivating the interest of the Museum publics to the galleries by Museum education officers is through dances, dramas and singing: Through this method, education officer uses his or her innovative ability to put some of the objects into choruses or songs, dramatize them on how they are been used and even make the audience to dance or shake their body to the rhythm of the songs, for instance, the Museum bay with collection of Musical instruments such as drums, flutes mental gongs etc can be best or easily be communicated

by demonstrating how they are used accompanied with fine intonation of songs and dances. By demonstrating these objects before them it has the ability of stirring up or arousing their interest as well as stimulating them into looking forward for more information which will consequently makes them to visit the Museum galleries the more.

5. USE OF FLYERS AND LEAFLETS: Flyers and leaflets are also effective means of communicating Museum objects to visitors as well as to the intending visitors. Flyers and leaflets can be compiled by education unit containing elaborate information about a Museum such as brief history of the Museum, type or concept of the Museum, collections and their importance, the various departments and the educational services offered by the Education unit of the Museum etc. When these leaflets and flyers are evenly distributed to the public including schools, young and old, churches, mosques hospital, prison etc, it can go a long way of creating awareness on the readers or public about the Museum collections and their activities.

These information can stir up or motivate them to develop the interest of not only knowing the Museum on flyers and leaflets but will also make them to personally take a trip to the Museum to see things to themselves and for further enquiries.

In conclusion, it is pertinent to say that Museum collections and exhibits to a large extent has much to communication to the public, but they remain dead and uninteresting except they are made to speak to human-beings. The objects also are themselves dumb but the Museum education officers give them life and meaning by interpreting or translating them into reality so that when put together; teach our rich cultural heritage.

The communication of interest of information, values and ideas concerning Museum collection and exhibits in the gallery is a very vital role of the Museum education officers, thus for Museum education officers to successfully perform their professional duty as communicators between the Museum and the public, the above mentioned method of communicating objects must be adopted and used appropriately.

A paper presented by Mr. Alonge Joseph Tomilayo Principal museum education officer National Museum, Benin City.

19

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Art And Culture

With AMBROSE EKHOSUEHI

The 1941 Salt Rationing Culture THE 1941 salt rationing culture was the restricted amount of salt distributed and limited quantity allowed to one person. This was due to lingering Second World War of 1939 to 1945.

Salt is the substance use for seasoning and preserving food. It tastes well and makes meal palatable eating, so much so that any person who paradox it, eats worthless, (Neo Okpitan ye umwen, okuro gha rre.)

Salt is a chemical compound formed together with water, found in the earth and sea water.

Salt in chemistry is a chemical compound formed when an acid and a base react together, such as hydrochloric acid combines with sodium hydroxide base to form sodium chloride.

This is the compound call salt. It is the commonest of the salts that Lends its name to all of the other salts.

Sodium chloride, together with many other salts is found in sea water. It also occurs in the earth’s crust in massive form.

Table salt, the common salt, comes from these sources. Oba Orogbua in about 1550AD introduced the common, cooking table salt to Great Benin Kingdom. To remain healthy all human beings

and animals must eat certain amount of salt.

Sodium chloride is a valuable raw material for industry, that is, caustic soda for making soap, paper and rayon.

Chlorine for purifying water and bleaching; are obtained by passing electricity through salt solution or brine for soda ash in making glass.

The chloride, sulphate and Nitrate are the salt of sodium and most metals form salts of this kind. Carbonates and phosphates are other common salts: The most important non-metal to form salts is ammonia and are valuable fertilizers.

Salts have been so important but became very scarce at the mid periods of the Second World War Government had to devise means of rationing the salts to enable every person use, especially the cooking or table salt.

Buying and supply centres were constructed in such a way that only a person could pass in a queue, the walkway to the buying spot.

There were supervisors at each sales centre to a Salter. Two salt spoons were sold for a farthing (Ekuye eva, ekpini) four of which makes one kobo.

There was a particular supervisor named Oyegue, he was as strict and diligent than the

colonial masters who put him in charge, guarded by security personnel’s. He gave no chance to any person trying to side track the one placed in the line, awaiting their turn.

His eyes were quite focused, straight looking forward, terribly dressed outfit of colonial uniform, but his eyes were red, that mercy was far fetch for any erring person who would not

go with pans and salt rationing would end.

What would Oyegue do in return?

Scarcity is the cause of Rationing, famine and drought, while commodities would be measured to enable each person had a share.

Scarcity of salts in 1941 was all over the world. The British salt was not in focus; as German salt was introduced. For several

active mind. Always planning and always looking for ways in which to use considerable skills.

They enjoy challenges and are skilful organizers. They are calm, placid nature and prefer the quieter things in life.

They hate being hurried into making quick decision and tend to rely on their own judgement rather than

were concerned, and in the short term they derived no benefit, since the Government fixed prices for crops which were exceedingly low.

After the war, through statutory marketing boards, Government continued its role as purchaser and regulator of prices.

The marketing boards paid prices lower than the prevailing price when it was high while

escape his cudgel, or whip.

He was ‘a fear’ to the people and to arouse his capability, the Salter was put to song thus, “Eki Umwen ghafo, Oyegue neo ba vbe aro” that is rationing sales of salt will end, Oyegue the red eyes”.

The Salter — a person who deals in salt would

days men and women would be yawning to have a measure of saltspoon. A buying centre would serve several villages and a town may have not more than two buying centres.

Scientist viewed the stars of the people born during that period as people of wisdom, highly intelligent and

listen to advice.

A major change in the structure resulting from salt rationing was the establishment of a whole range of secondary industries to provide goods which were either in short supply from traditional sources or were impossible to obtain because of submarine blockade.

Building materials, concrete, furniture, leather goods, preserved fruits etc were being manufactured on the spot.

In the long term peasants were no longer at the mercy of the firms as far as the determination of prices

remaining the difference to boost up the price paid to the peasant when market price was low.

The peasant was thus protected from the worst excesses of price fluctuations. Finally the marketing boards were the prelude to the socialization of Agriculture.

Generally salt rationing period suffered severe economic depression exacerbated by the second world 1939 to 1945 but salt of the earth, the choice few of highest excellence, worth one’s salt the good for anything at all due to 1941 salt rationing culture.

“Table salt, the common salt, comes from these sources. Oba Orogbua in about 1550AD introduced the common, cooking table salt to Great Benin Kingdom. To remain healthy all human beings and animals must eat certain amount of salt.”

20 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Dear Teachers, You Are Not Abiku

• He who never learns to obey cannot be a good commander – Aristottle

I SALUTE you all, all the teachers that were, that are and that hope to be in Nigeria as a whole and Edo State in particular, particularly those of you who had the courage to go back to classroom and continue in the struggle to impart knowledge on our children. I salute you especially, all primary school teachers in Edo State, and I do this with all due sense of humility… with the same awe-inspired honour, with the same child-like love and hero-image imbued mentality with which I regarded you in the days of my youth, in those early days when nothing else mattered at the Assembly ground as soon as I passed the prying eyes and the sharp-witted pruning of Mrs. Helen Nwachukwu (Auntie Helen), who taught me in primary school.

I salute you, my heroes and heroines, the collective demigods of every Nigerian child. I hail you, for whatever my modest life has become, and there are those who by carefully and ingeniously applying and discharging what you had graciously taught them, had gone way above modesty and traversed great and mighty terrains, and frontiers, attained lofty and inimitable heights both in private and public enterprise. These ones would remain, like I am, eternally grateful to you and posterity will continue to reckon with you and… I am sure, there are also teachers that you remain eternally grateful to. The circle of heroism remains an eternal one, for all those who deserve to be called heroes.

I heard some of you had recently organized and orchestrated prayers with the prayer point that God should intervene in the present strike issue in Edo State, as it concerns

primary school Teachers. That is highly commendable. It is better than organized strike.

Praying is better than striking.

I only wish you had prayed before you proceeded on this strike that is giving all of us cause to worry now.

I also wish you had also considered the fundamental ele-

I can’t recall if you came and went on strike like you do now, because as a child I couldn’t decipher between strike and public holidays and more over I went to a missionary school, Anglican and Saint Theresa’s, so I wouldn’t remember now if the missionaries allowed you

strike while the education, the fundamental aspect of their growth process is left unattended to. I assure you, dear teachers, whenever you came and went on strike, things never remained the same.

Putting it midly, I am also sure there is a child or even an adult somewhere who

FEMINIQUE With IJEOMA UMEH email: ladywithegoldenpen@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 08182382839

“On the part of government too, heroism is also to come to terms with the realities of our time, to come together to reach an amicable compromise.

Using the instruments of your office, I know you can evoke it!” predators also haunt them down for ritual purposes. More ‘missing’ children are hitting the airwaves as public announcement.

As you pray, dear teachers, also pray that by the time you decide to come back, the empty chairs in your class would not be stained with blood and tears! God forbid!

Remember, heroism is in your ability to put on the armour of courage and go back to school. On the part of government too, heroism is also to

come to terms with the realities of our time, to come together to reach an amicable compromise. Using the instruments of your office, I know you can evoke it! Whatever happens, we pray against unnecessary heating up of the polity. We also pray against the spirit of Abiku, the coming and going syndrome.

Welcome, as you come back to classroom!

Now, parents and guardians, where is your child or ward now?

Words On Marble ments of the verbs ‘come’ and ‘go’ and their past participles ‘come’, and ‘gone’, like you had taught us then and that those who must ‘come’ to equity must come with clean hands, without meaning to undermine your right to act the way you did.

Dear teachers, the rules of the verbs ‘coming’ and ‘going’ are the same everywhere, in every situation, in every clime.

As a child I have seen you coming to and going from school, that was important for my development, educationally, mentally, physically, spiritually and otherwise. Government appreciated it as much as parents did. I am sure I did too, in my innocence, despite the corrective wands you always wielded. At least, I did not lose the ‘primary’ essence of education and development, the catalysts that you represent.

“. . . out there in our perilous way of life young children are daily roaming the street corners, falling prey to sick and familiar adults who defiled and even murdered them to cover their ogre.”

to down tools.

However, if you did go on strike, you had your genuine reasons, like you still do now, and it may be recognized under relevant industrial relations acts, but I want to remind you that although government is a corporate entity, it is you and I that give government a human face. In other words, government is you and I. Now, what about the children? They are yours and mine.

They are the future, our future, as over flogged as that phrase may have become. I actually began to think twice about motherhood, or parenthood, if you wish, when I heard a sermon that pointed to the fact that we do not own the children that God had bestowed us with but we are only channels by which God had willed that these children should be catered for here on planet earth, like hapless, helpless cherubs.

In other words, because we all started off as hapless children, as infants who do not know their left from their right, we are all also under God’s primary constituency, despite the attainment of the statutory age of maturity.

For these ones who haven’t yet attained that age, we, as custodians, do not have choice but to look out for them; and that choice is not limited to going to and coming from

wouldn’t regard a teacher as a hero when they thought of what had happened in one moment of strike.

It is true, the fundamental rights of every human should not be denied them, but children have rights too, specific rights outside human rights and the rights of these children should actually begin where our rights as humans and adults terminated. It has to run uninterrupted. Their welfare has to be paramount above anything else because it’s a divine arrangement, it’s a divine mandate that we should cater for them. If we don’t fear anything else, let the fear of God invade our inner minds.

This message is for teachers as well as for government.

Whatever we may want to achieve, both teachers and government, it will not serve in place of the fact that out there in our perilous way of life young children are daily roaming the street corners, falling prey to sick and familiar adults who defiled and even murdered them to cover their ogre.

Thanks to the prohibition on child hawking in Edo State, more children would have been hawking all kinds of wares for indigent parents and guardians now, but some handful are still engaged in this act and vehicles are knocking them down while

* The government is the largest employer of labour in the country and as the third actor in our industrial relations, it has certain roles to play. One of such roles is the setting of standards. The government is also interested in setting the rules of the game, hence, as a dual actor the government knows the importance of collective bargaining and has from time to time made pronouncements in favour of the practice in industry…

A very important factor in collective bargaining in the public sector is the use of strike. Theoretically, and in agreement with the sovereignty doctrine, strikes by government employees have traditionally been illegal as a result of both common and statute law. The right to strike as a socio-economic weapon in the private sector is not denied when the rules of the game have been followed, but in the public sector, the unions are limited in their ability to effectively negotiate with the government. In lieu of this, unions in the public sector are expected to resort to the use of political pressure to meet their objectives.

Culled from Readings in Industrial Relations in Nigeria

By Dafe Otobo and Morakinyo Omole “Set your sights high, the higher the better. Expect the most wonderful things to happen, not in the future but right now. Realize that nothing is too good. Allow absolutely nothing to hamper you or hold you up in any way.”

- Eileen Candy “Things may come to those who wait. But only the things left over by those who hustle.”

- Abraham Lincoln.

“Drive thy business, or it will drive thee.”

- Benjamin Franklin.

“We live very close together.

So, our prime purpose in this life is to help others.

And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.”

The Dali Lama “Fall seven times, stand up eight” - Japanese Proverb.

21

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Education

Need To End NUT Strike In Edo

ON June 20, 2013 The NIGERIAN OBSERVER carried a front page news titled Edo approves TSA for Secondary School Teachers.

The story explained that Comrade Governor Adams Aliu Oshiomhole has agreed to pay secondary school teachers in Edo State the full 27.5% of their Teachers Special Allowance. Earlier on government was paying them 17.5% of the allowance. So, all the government did was to pay the balance of 10%. This action is commendable.

Also, the news story in The NIGERIAN OBSERVER said Oshiomhole decried the action of Edo primary school teachers for opting for strike in violation of the Trade Dispute Act. Well, it is not my intention to discuss the act and issues relating to it. All I want to do in this article is to plead with Oshiomhole to revisit the primary school teachers’ strike with a fatherly disposition.

When he does this, he will discover that not all primary school teachers liked the strike which began on the very day Edo State held its primary six school leaving certificate examination.

Those teachers who hated the strike were however, confused on what step to take.

This is because of the conflicting instructions coming from both the government and the NUT on the strike.

Government asked the teachers to report for work while NUT asked them to stay away.

Despite the ensuing confusion, most teachers reported early for the examination ignoring the NUT’s strike. But then these teachers were looked out by the NUT. Therefore, there was nothing these teachers could do but to return home. They wouldn’t conduct the examination, not through their own fault but the action of the NUT. Thanks to the maturity of some headmasters, at the end of the day, the examination

was held without any hitch.

In other words, some staff of primary schools in Edo State ignored the NUT’s strike and participated in the examination. It is for this reason that government should realise that not all primary school teachers today joined the strike willingly. They had no option but to follow the NUT’s directive to keep the peace.

If these teachers, who

were against the strike, had decided to fight their way into the schools to conduct the examination, there would have been a disturbance of the peace. But they didn’t take this line of action.

Such teachers appreciate what Comrade Governor Adams Aliu Oshiomhole is doing for education in Edo State. Through him, education has really experienced great improvements in both our junior and secondary schools. Indeed, with the arrival of Oshiomhole, our children now have a better learning environment. Their academic future is guaranteed since sound education is the best legacy you can give them. And they are getting such an education.

By EKAIWE OMO OMOREGIE

It is for this reason my eyes are heavy with tears that our children in Edo State are still at home today as a result of the NUT’s strike. This is not how things ought to be. It is wrong to discontinue the education of our children in primary school, over a strike they know nothing about. Infact, they are suffering unnecessarily while their

ing with the Edo State Governor and NUT to engage in genuine dialogue as a way out of the present crisis. It is high time we take the interest of our children into consideration. At all times, they need continuous systematic instruction for the development of their knowledge base skills character and moral powers.

peaceful settlement of the current strike affecting our children badly.

This is not a time for our primary school teachers and the NUT to show arrogance and recalcitrance. They need to shift grounds on their hard posture if an amicable settlement would have to be reached on the on-going strike.

All primary school teachers and the NUT should be-

counterparts in secondary schools are continuing with their education. Yet, it is the products of primary schools that go to secondary schools.

Therefore, the on-going strike in primary schools will eventually affect the quality of enrolment in Edo State Secondary Schools in the long run if the current strike isn’t settled immediately.

Given this, I am plead-

Two wrongs don’t make a right. So my dear Comrade Governor Adams Aliu Oshiomhole, ignore the sins of the NUT and primary school teachers, show magnanimity. Forgive them. To err is human to forgive is divine. Therefore, call a meeting with the NUT immediately. On its part, the NUT should honour the call and meet the governor for a

have like good parents who never allow their wards or children to suffer for long because of a strike. We know that primary school teachers are important members of our society. After all, there is no educated person on earth today or who is dead who didn’t pass through a primary school. But this is not a sufficient reason for any primary school teacher to

snub any call for dialogue by government to find a way out of the strike. Government is a father to everyone. Hence, it is wrong to disobey any instructions it gives for solving all matters concerning the strike and the teachers service allowance.

On its part, too, the government should also recognise the important role of primary school teachers in the educational sector. For this reason, I am appealing that Governor Oshiomhole should personally negotiate with the NUT and the primary school teachers. As things stand now it appears they would not be willing to listen to his delegates or representatives. Also, I plead that stakeholders in Edo State should intervene in the on-going strike which is affecting every one not only the pupils in the primary schools. I believe that the voices of stakeholders would go a long way in untying the problems surrounding the strike so that it can be easily and quickly solved.

Lest I forget, I also appeal that when eventually the strike is resolved, the government should work out an arrangement for e-payment for primary school teachers salaries and allowances. This will go a long way to modernise the emolument payment system in primary school in Edo State as it is in the secondary schools. What is good for the goose is good for the gander.

Furthermore, government should ensure that all promotions due to primary school teachers are given to them in the interest of justice. It is my candid view that when teachers in primary schools get their entitlements and NUT as well as the government and stakeholders always collaborate, then there would be no more strike in Edo State.

“For this reason, I am appealing that Governor Oshiomhole should personally negotiate with the NUT and the primary school teachers. As things stand now it appears they would not be willing to listen to his delegates or representatives. Also, I plead that stakeholders in Edo State should intervene in the on-going strike which is affecting every one not only the pupils in the primary schools.”

22 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Discourse

Creation Of Midwest Region Of Nigeria And Life, Times Of Senator Dalhton Ogieva Asemota O.B.E Senator Dalton Asemota of Benin was made Chairman of the Midwest United Front Committee (UFC). The conference – which was boycotted by most members of the Action Group – was a confidence building measure designed to iron out party differences and differences between ideological and ethnic interest groups. The conference resulted in the creation of many committees to plan for the future Midwest. In addition to the UFC, these committees were the constitutional and legal, finance and general purposes, civil service, delimitation, and minority protection committees.

In June, the Majekodunmi regime filed a motion to withdraw the court cases that were pending against the Midwest motion. Both motions were eventually dismissed in July by the Supreme Court.

On September 9th, there was another all-party roundtable at the Oba’s Palace in Benin which most members of the Action Group, except Ja isuman and JE Odiete boycotted. At this meeting, a 75 man Midwest Planning Committee including all Midwest legislators at regional and federal levels was created. It was chaired by Senator Dalton Asemota, assisted by EB Edun-Fregene, JAE Oki, Dr. Christopher Okojie, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh, Dennis Osadebe and Humphrey Omo-Osagie. Various sub-committee chairmen were Olisa Chukwura for the constitutional and legal, Chief A.Y. Eke for the finance and general purposes, J.I.G. Onyia for the civil services, Chief Obasuyi for delimitation, Ja Isuman for the Plebiscite, and Chief Odiete for minority protection.

About one week later a new political party called the Midwest Peoples Congress (MPC) was formed. It was allied to the Northern Peoples Congress and led by Apostle Edokpolo. (Vickers, Op.Cit.).

A week later on September 22, Chief Awolowo and many others were arrested for an apparent plot to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Balewa.

Chief Anthony Enahoro initially escaped into exile in Ireland but was extradited back to Nigeria in May 1963 to stand trial.

With the Promised Land in sight, there was need for all resources to be mobilized for known and unknown threats during the referendum. Therefore, Oba Akenzua II wrote an interesting letter to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Midwest Affairs on October 2nd, 1962, in which he said: Dear Permanent Secretary, Your MWP144/358 of 26/9/62. I do not now see any justification for the continued ban on “Owegbe”. I, therefore, support the suggestion that the ban on “Owegbe” should be lifted. I recommend that the ban on “Owegbe” in the Benin Division and elsewhere should be lifted.”

Yours Sincerely, (sgd) Oba of Benin.

With unity and security on the home front, all hands were now on deck for the final push. Balewa had decided that he would not conduct the referendum until there was a formal government back in office at Ibadan. By order of the federal government, the Akintola government was reinstated on January 1st, 1963 as Premier, this time with support from a new coalition consisting of the NCNC and his new party called the United People’s Party (UPP). This action caused an additional misunderstanding within the old Action Group just as it was reeling from the report of the Coker Commission of Inquiry into management of Cocoa marketing Board investments and newspapers coverage of the ongoing trial of Chief Awolowo and others for

By NOWAMAGBE A. ORUGUI

treasonable felony (Enahoro, Op. Cit.).

On January 21, Mr. Gabriel E. Longe, from Owan district of the Afenmai Division was appointed the Supervisor of the Midwest referendum. He had been the legal adviser to the Benin Delta Peoples Party back in the fifties. No civil servants from the Western region were to be selected (to avoid a conflict of interest or fear of victimization) and no non – Midwesterners were to be give any significant roles in the exercise. Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh was the link man to the Prime Minister to make sure there were no mistakes at federal level.

A few days later on January 24th, the Midwest Planning Committee met again to get updates, on developments and plan for the referendum. Two days later on January

“A week later on September 22, Chief Awolowo and many others were arrested for an apparent plot to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Balewa. Chief Anthony Enahoro initially escaped into exile in Ireland but was extradited back to Nigeria in May 1963 to stand trial.”

26th, KSY Momoh, who had taken over from Chief Anthony Enahoro as Chairman of the Midwest Regional Committee of the Action Group publicly announced that the Action Group would oppose the creation of the Midwest, but, unknown to him, the horse had left the barn. On February 23rd, Midwestern dissenters from the Action Group and elements of the Midwest State Movement and NCNC entered a secret pact to make sure the Midwest referendum was hitch free. Faced with a choice between the party and their region, and urged on by appeals from Senator Dalton Asemota, many opted for their region. Under such pressure Action Group hardliners any anti-Midwest region politicians like KSY Momoh, C. Akere and Olatunji Oye, who were all former Ministers under Akintola before the split in the AG, decided to attend the next meeting of the Midwest Planning Committee (MPC) on March 9th (Vickers, Op. Cit).

Thereafter, Oba Akenzua II resumed his tours of the Midwest to garner support for the “yes” vote. He was quoted as saying, “Whoever does not drop his or her ballot paper into the WHITE ballot box will be condemned by future generations. Even those who die before the plebiscite takes place will be condemned in the other world, if they die with the bad intention of voting against or persuading people to vote against the creation of a Midwest region.” (Speech by Oba akenzua at Agbor, March 12, 1963).

On April 23rd, Mr. James Otobo, a pro-Midwest politicians who had decamped from the NCNC to the AG before independence and had since crossed over to the UPP requested for a postponement of the referendum pending clarification of certain issues. Therefore, another meeting of the Midwest Planning Committee was called

on May 20th, followed by yet another meeting on May 30th at which final agreement was reached on the creation of new divisions for the Akoko-Edo and Isoko people, as well as the composition of the interim Midwest administration.

In the meantime, on May 2nd, tragedy struck. Senator Dalton Ogieva Asemota, OBE, Chairman of the Midwest Planning Committee died suddenly.

When it was all over, Senator Dalton Asemota having been buried and the plebiscite completed, these were the results.

(GE Longe. Results of the Midwest Referendum, 1963, July 18, 1963. From D.A. Omoigui Archievers).

No. 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

District Votes Scored by Eligible Voters Affirmative Answers ”YES” Negative Answer ABOH 33,072 AFENMAI 76,998 ASABA 68,637 BENIN 130,562 ISHAN 73,088 URHOBO 150,382 WARRI 30,703 WESTERN IJAW 15,635 Total 579,077

722 1,260 365 2,081 563 273 1,377 577 7,218

The total number of eligible voters, being persons whose names appeared in the Federal Electoral register of 1959 was 654,130. Of this number the percentage that voted in the affirmative was 89.07%, well in excess of the required 60% (or 392,478) for the creation of the Mid-West region. The region that was born on August 9, 1963 as a result of the July 13th plebiscite remains the only major administrative unit of Nigeria created by due constitutional process.

CONCLUSION Edmund Burke, the Irish orator, philosopher, & politician once observed that, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”

It is a shame that the late Senator Dahlton Ogieva Asemota (OBE), along with all of his colleague who lived, fought and in some cases, died, while on active service for the Midwest cause, have not to this day been honoured and memorialized for their leadership and sacrifice. We have witnessed instead the falsification of history and the demoralization of false heroes.

As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of his passing, and as we approach the 50th anniversary of our national dream, the creation of the Midwest region, let us in ways small and large jointly bring pressure to bear on well-meaning philanthropists, the local and state authorities in Edo and Delta States and beyond to correct the historic injustice, which, as long as we tolerate remains a sore in our collective conscience.

What will it take to name a road, a building, or a square after him, or erect a status in a strategic location in his honour? There are many other ways to memorialize him and the others. To paraphrase Senator Dahlton Ogieva Asemota’s words, “Our destiny is in our hands, as, it is said, “every man is the architect of his own fortune.

Likewise, every family and community is the architect of is own fortune. We must act.

23

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Reflection

With REV. FR. JOHN DAMIAN ADIZIE PHONE: 08076635886

Leadership Qualities In Saints Peter And Paul

ONE of the challenges facing the African society and even the Church is the problem of leadership. The African leadership is characterized by tribalism, abuse of power, mismanagement of public fund, monopoly of power and imposition of leaders on others by the so called ‘godfathers’.

People’s electoral voices are often suppressed or manipulated.

Most Africans do not even see leadership as a ministry of service. They see it as a position of honour, dictatorship and embezzlement. As we celebrate the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, the great leaders of the Church, it will be appropriate to reflect on some of their leadership qualities.

These leadership qualities were of course inspired by our Lord Jesus Christ.

Leadership is a divine mandate. The writer of the book of Hebrew states clearly that “No one takes this honour upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was” (Hebrew 5:4). In confirmation, Jesus told his followers, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide” (John 15:16). When you consider the amount of money politicians and some Church leaders spend on election, you will agree with me that something is terribly wrong somewhere. When they get into power instead of using the public fund to work for the interest of the masses they will try to settle the money they borrowed for campaign.

Peter, the prince of the Apostles was directly chosen

by Jesus. He did not lobby for it. After the miracle of the great catch of fish at the Lake of Gennesaret, Peter even told Jesus, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man.” Peter was humble enough to acknowledge that he was a sinful man. This was exactly the quality Jesus needed in every leader. Jesus told him immediately, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men” (Luke 5:8-10).

How many African leaders are ready to accept their weakness? Our leaders are ‘supermen’. Men who don’t believe that one can make mistakes. Try to correct them, you will find yourself in a cooler.

When Peter courageously and accurately answered the question of our Lord Jesus Christ, Jesus declared him the rock on which he will build his Church. “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, on this rock I will build my Church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Matthew 16:1520). The key of authority given to Peter was to bind demons and not to prevent children of God from serving God as most Church leaders do.

The position of Peter as the head of the Apostles was finally ratified after the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus called Peter three times, saying, Simon, son of John; do you love me more than these? Peter said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “feed my sheep” (John 21:15) By so doing Jesus declared Peter a shepherdleader. A shepherd according to Jesus is one who is ready to lay down his life for his sheep. Jesus said, “I am the Good Shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

Only God knows how many African leaders are ready to lay down their lives for their flock. Instead of feeding the flock most leaders are even feeding on the flock.

Peter left everything and followed Jesus (Luke 5:11).

He was not attached to his wealth, his family or occupation. A leader must be ready to let go. Good leaders usually declare their assets before assuming office. But how many African leaders are ready to declare their assets?

Peter was also a generous and caring leader. He allowed Jesus to use his boat for evangelization (Luke 5:2-3).

He took Jesus and other disciples to visit his motherin-law who was sick (Mark 1:30). It was at this visit that Jesus cured his mother-inlaw. A leader must care for the sick and needy. He should not close his door or office to strangers.

Peter was not a perfectionist. He admitted his mistakes and lack of faith.

When he was about to sink for lack of faith he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus

Messiah. His argument was so logical that you will hardly believe he was just an ordinary fisherman. Those who heard him preaching were cut to the heart, and they said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?” Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:37-38). A Church leader must be an eloquent preacher, a soul winner.

was a contemporary of Jesus Christ of Nazareth; he never had the opportunity to meet him during his public life. He was not even among the first twelve Apostles. He was appointed Apostle by God (Gal 1:1). On his way to Damascus when Jesus called him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” he could not recognize his voice. It was his first time of hearing such a softliberating voice. He inquired, “Who are you, Lord?” Jesus introduced himself to him, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting”

respectful man. His intellectual background notwithstanding, he had a deep love and respect for his elders in faith. He was not even dragging position with anybody. He was contended with his position as the last of the Apostles. He even wrote, “For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God” (I Corinthians 15:9).

His respect for the pillars of the Church did not stop him from correcting error when he observes any. In fact, he had to confront Peter when he noticed

rescued him saying, “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:29-31).

This same Peter denied Jesus three times. The doubt, the weakness and even the denial of Peter did not stop Jesus from making him the leader of the Church. One does not need to be a perfectionist to be a leader. Some of our African leaders are perfectionists who are impatient and insensitive to the weak and vulnerable ones.

Peter was an eloquent preacher with sound theology. When the Apostles received the Holy Spirit Peter gave one of the best sermons in the Bible. Systematically and chronologically he was able to convince his audience that Jesus Christ was the

Peter, the first pope, was a miracle worker. When he met a lame man at the Beautiful Gate he told him, “I have no silver and gold, but I give you what I have; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Instantly the man started walking (Acts 3:6-7).

At a stage “they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them” (Acts 5:15). Most Church leaders are skeptical of healing ministry. No doubt, there may be some abuses but that does not mean we should loose this important gift of our Lord Jesus Christ to the Church.

Unlike Peter, Paul was a learned scholar. Although he

(Acts 9:4-6). You don’t necessarily have to see the physical Jesus of Nazareth for you to be a Church leader, but you need to hear his voice through prayer.

Paul’s life was radically transformed from a persecutor of God’s Church to an evangelizer of faith in the crucified Messiah (Gal 1: 23). After his conversion he knew very little about the earthly life of Jesus Christ.

He visited Peter in Jerusalem and stayed with him for 15 days of what I may call formation period (Gal 1: 19). It was during this formation period that Paul learnt much about the earthly life of Jesus Christ.

In most of his writings he usually acknowledged the source of his information as handed unto him. “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received.” (1 Cor 15: 3-4) A tree cannot make a forest.

In humility, Paul acknowledged Peter, James and John as the pillars of the Church (Galatians 2:9).

Paul was a humble and

some inconsistencies in his life and doctrine. He narrated, “When Cephas came to Antioch I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he ate with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party… But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you compel the Gentiles to live like Jews?” (Galatians 2:11-14) Paul was a preacher to the preachers. How many African leaders are ready to defend the interest of the poor and vulnerable ones, as Paul did?

It takes a courageous leader like St. Paul to act as the voice of the voiceless. In conclusion, Jesus told his followers, the first among you must be your servant (Mark 10:44). The official title of the Pope is “Servant of the servants of the Lord!” A Leader is a minister, a humble servant. What kind of leader are you?

“Peter was an eloquent preacher with sound theology. When the Apostles received the Holy Spirit Peter gave one of the best sermons in the Bible.

Systematically and chronologically he was able to convince his audience that Jesus Christ was the Messiah. His argument was so logical that you will hardly believe he was just an ordinary fisherman.”

24 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

International

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Unique Brain Patter Could Predict Autism In Youngest Children GENETIC changes are almost certainly behind many cases of autism, and the latest research suggests that some of those alterations may be contributing to more densely connected networks of brain nerves.

A highly interconnected brain could mean that signals zooming from sensory nerves to other networks become too overwhelming to parse apart and process, which researchers believe is a hallmark of the autistic brain. And in a study published in JAMA Psychiatry, Stanford University researchers report that this pattern of hyperconnectivity in some brain areas could provide a fingerprint for autism that helps doctors to recognize the condition at its earliest stages.

The scientists scanned the brains of 20 autistic children who ranged in age from 7 to 12 and also imaged 20 typically developing children of the same age for comparison. They found stronger connections within many critical brain networks in the autistic children, including those responsible for introspection, vision and movement.

They also saw more robust links in networks that help the brain to triage the flood of incoming information from both our bodies and our environment that assaults us constantly.

Called the salience network, itís responsible for determining which internal or external sensations need our immediate attention. Using a computer program that the researchers developed to make sense of the brain

imaging data, they found that by mapping the salience network alone, they could accurately classify autistic or non-autistic children in their study 78% of the time ó and could do so 83% of the time using data from other researchers. ìThatís wonderful,î says Kamila Markram, the Autism Project Director at the Brain Mind Institute of the EPFL, a federal technology institute in Lausanne, Switzerland, who was not associated with the research, ìWe must move toward biological markers for autism and not just rely on interviews and observations by people.î Markram previously published animal research suggesting that hyperconnectivity may be involved in autism.

Moreover, the more strongly connected the salience network was in autistic children, the worse symptoms they had in terms of repetitive behaviors like rocking and restricted interests such as being obsessed with computers or the periodic table of elements. The findings suggest that from an early age, children with autism develop differently from those without the condition, and that these changes may be detectable through brain imaging.

Hyperconnection could explain both the behavioral deficits associated with autism as well as some of its more positive outcomes. A more highly connected brain, for example, is prone to information overload, which can lead to social withdrawal, restricted interests and

South Africa: Mandela In Very Critical Condition JOHANNESBURG - A daughter of Nelson Mandela says he is in very critical condition but is still opening his eyes and reacting to touch at the South African hospital where he is being treated.

Makaziwe Mandela told South Africa’s state broad-

caster yesterday that the former president and antiapartheid leader is still giving the family hope, even though “anything is imminent.”

She says her family will wait with 94-year-old Mandela until “the time to go.”

Obama: No Wheeling Or Dealing To Extradite Snowden

DAKAR, Senegal - President Barack Obama says he won’t engage in wheeling, dealing and trading to get NSA leaker Edward Snowden extradited to the U.S. Obama says he also won’t be scrambling military jets to go after a 29-year-old hacker, rejecting suggestions the U.S. might send the Air Force to force down a plane carrying Snowden from Russia to another country.

Obama says he hasn’t per-

sonally called the leaders of Russia or of China. He says he shouldn’t have to. He says expelling a criminal is something that should be dealt with through routine legal channels.

Obama says the fact Snowden obtained the secret documents shows significant vulnerabilities at the National Security Agency. He says the damage that’s been done is that NSA programs to obtain phone and Internet records have been exposed.

repetitive behavior as ways of escaping or coping. But such enmeshed neural networks may also lead to better memory and greater focus. ìIt confirms the hypothesis and theories we suggested in our model,î says Markram, whose work in rats showed that exposure at specific times during fetal development to the epilepsy drug valproic acid (VPA), or Depakote, contributed to hyperconnected brains and autism-like symptoms. That led her to develop the ëintense worldí theory that sees autism as resulting from an overwhelmed brain that is taking in and processing too much information.

According to the theory, the repetitive and obsessive focus that some autistic patients develop toward specific behaviors could be a coping mechanism for this information overload. ìBecause the [autistic] brain is not adaptively focusing on responding to external information, it can focus on a narrow range of interests,î says the study’s lead author Vinod Menon, a professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at Stanford. ìThat kind of focus is actually what could give rise to these outstanding but restricted areas of exceptional skill.î He adds that his new research ìopens up a nice way of thinking about how the brain is organized that can lead to both deficits and strengths.”

Children and their families stand outside the Mediclinic Heart Hospital where former South African President Nelson Mandela is being treated in Pretoria, South Africa Wednesday, June 26, 2013.

U.S. President Barack Obama (L) and Senegal President Macky Sall attend a joint news conference at the Presidential Palace June 27, 2013 in Dakar, Senegal.

India Begins Mass Cremation Of Flood Victims NEW DELHI - India began the mass cremation of bodies recovered after devastating floods in the country’s northern Himalayan region, government officials said yesterday, adding that hundreds of people were still missing.

The floods, triggered by heavier than normal and early monsoon rains, have killed at least 822 people and displaced tens of thousands of inhabitants in Uttarakhand state, a popular destination for Hindu pilgrims due to its shrines and temples.

The disaster has been dubbed a “Himalayan tsunami” by the media due to the torrents of water unleashed in the hilly region, which sent mud and boulders crashing down, burying homes, sweeping away buildings, roads and bridges.

Eighteen bodies were cremated on Wednesday in the temple town of Kedarnath - one of the worst affected areas - and at least 40 would be cremated yesterday, said a government doctor in Guptkashi, some 40 km (25 miles) from

Kedarnath.”

Media reports said 600 bodies have been recovered from the site of Kedarnath alone, but government officials could not confirm this.

“Three of our doctors are currently in Kedarnath and they are trying to help identify bodies which have been found in the area,” said Sunil Kumar Verma, one of a team of nine doctors from the Uttarakhand health department.

Verma said Kedarnath was only accessible by helicopter.

The disposal of corpses is important to eliminate the risk of contaminating the water supply and outbreaks of diseases such as diarrhea and cholera.

An air force spokesman said helicopters had been dropping items such as wood and clarified butter - essential materials for Hindus to conduct their last rites.”

Heavy rains over the last three days have hampered rescue operations by the army and air force who have been evacuating survivors marooned in and around the four temple

towns of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri since June 15.

Around 96,500 people have so far been evacuated by land and air, said media reports. Television channels have been broadcasting dramatic pictures of desperate pilgrims scrambling to get aboard helicopters.

Government officials said around 350 people had been re-

ported missing, but added that it was likely that there were many more.

“It’s very difficult to know the real figures and the scale of the disaster at the moment as many places are still blocked and we are still struggling to get to all the affected areas,” said an official with the National Disaster Management Authority.

No Sign Of Cyber Leaking Snowden On Flight To Cuba MOSCOW - A Russian passenger plane left Moscow for Havana yesterday without any sign of former U.S. spy agency contractor Edward Snowden on board, witnesses said.

Cuba is considered a possible destination for Snowden on his way to Ecuador, where he is seeking asylum.

The 30-year-old American

is wanted in the United States on espionage charges and is thought to have remained in the transit area of Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport since flying in from Hong Kong on Sunday.

Russia carrier Aeroflot confirmed the plane’s departure but declined comment on the passenger list. Airline sources had said earlier yesterday that Snowden had not registered foe the flight.

25

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

International

Compiled By OKHUELEIGBE FAITH

What’s In Middle Name? For Snowden, HONG KONG - Edward knows what he looks like.”

Snowden’s bespectacled and A Flight Out Young and Hong Kong-based

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (front 2nd R) waves to members of the media as he is greeted by Jordan’s Director of the Political Directorate and the Royal Hashemite Court Manar Dabbas (front 2nd L) at Al Hummar Palace in Amman, where Kerry is to meet with Jordan’s King Abdullah

goateed face was almost unavoidable in Hong Kong last week. It stared out from newsstands, banners and giant TV screens on shopping malls and office buildings after it became known that the admitted leaker of U.S. secrets was in town and in hiding.

Still, when the U.S. asked the semiautonomous Chinese city for Snowden’s provisional arrest, its response was essentially this: Who exactly do you mean?

Justice Secretary Rimsky Yuen said Hong Kong officials weren’t sure who to look for because the U.S. government got Snowden’s middle name wrong in documents filed to back its arrest request.

He said Hong Kong immigration records listed Snowden’s

Kerry Resumes Tough Israeli Palestinian Peace Drive AMMAN - Secretary of State John Kerry’s drive to revive Middle East peace talks hit familiar warning signals on Thursday as Israel’s prime minister stressed security needs and a Palestinian negotiator denounced Israeli settlement building.

Kerry, on his fifth visit to the region, will hold separate talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem over the next three days.

Israeli settlement building on occupied land Palestinians seek for a state remains a main stumbling block to the resumption of peace talks that collapsed over the issue in 2010.

Kerry’s arrival in Amman on Wednesday coincided with news that Israel had approved 69 new housing units in a Jewish settlement in East Jerusalem, while building continues elsewhere.

“Obviously steps like this are unhelpful, but we remain hopeful that both parties will recog-

nize the opportunity and the necessity to go back to the table,” the State Department said.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has long demanded that settlement activity stop before peace talks resume, despite U.S. and Israeli calls for negotiations without preconditions.

“Settlement activity in and around occupied East Jerusalem is one of the main reasons why the two-state solution is disappearing, as without East Jerusalem there will be no Palestinian state,” Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, professing his support for creation of a Palestinian state, which he says must be demilitarized, has quietly frozen housing starts in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.

But in a speech on Thursday, he appeared to put the United States on notice that he would stick to his security demands

even at the risk of failed peace efforts should they resume.

Israelis, he said, “do not want a bi-national state” but they understand that security is a “fundamental condition for our existence”.

Netanyahu has called for an Israeli military presence along the eastern border of a Palestinian state, a demand opposed

by Abbas, and spoken of the danger of rocket fire at Israel from the West Bank unless tough security arrangements are agreed.

Kerry has revealed few details of his strategy to bring the sides together. But he has said he wants to show progress before September, when the United Nations General Assembly, which has already granted de facto recognition to a Palestinian state, resumes its debate over the Middle East.

Israel is concerned that the Palestinians, in the absence of peace talks, could use the U.N. session as a springboard for further unilateral statehood moves.

Israeli newspapers expressed skepticism that Kerry’s mission would achieve anything substantial.

“Kerry is still not trying to twist the leaders’ arms to get them to sign a painful historic peace, but only to sit down together,” said an editorial in Israel’s popular Maariv daily.

“The fact that the Americans have become bogged down in the attempts to resume the talks is telling, in and of itself, of American weakness, and projects pessimism as to the process itself, which has not yet begun,” it said.

Kerry has again called on Israeli and Palestinian leaders to take hard decisions for peace.

“It is urgent because time is the enemy of a peace process,” he said in Kuwait on Wednesday.

In a possible trial balloon related to Kerry’s mission, Israel’s Haaretz newspaper quoted an unnamed minister from Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party as saying the prime minister knew a peace deal would mean giving up most of the West Bank.

Obama Starts Long Awaited Africa Tour At Slave Port

DAKAR, Senegal - Almost four centuries after Africans started being shipped to North America as slaves, the first U.S. president of African ancestry will on Thursday visit an infamous embarkation point for those destined for lives in chains.

In his first - and, many Africans say, long-overdue - extended tour of the continent, President Barack Obama will focus on political and economic issues, but is also paying homage to a painful chapter in American history.

On the first leg of his eightday visit he is taking his family to the House of Slaves, a fort built in the late 18th century on

Goree Island, off the coast of Senegal, as a transit point for the human traffic and now a museum.

The visit will be a sombre reminder of a shameful period in U.S. and world history and provide a powerful contrast between Obama’s stature as leader of the world’s most powerful nation and the historical status of Africans, once treated as property in the country he governs.

“We have moved from a society in which African Americans were not viewed as citizens, in which social, economic equal-

ity was not provided, to one in which we could elect an African American president,” said Junius Rodriguez, a historian at Eureka College in Peoria, Illinois.

“It’s a remarkable transformation that we’ve made.”

Many Africans feel a bond with Obama but have voiced disappointment that he has not engaged with the continent as much as previous presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

During his first term, Obama’s only African trip was a one-day stopover in Ghana

and many Africans have been impatient for him to make an extended tour of the continent.

“It’s a real pleasure for us, that the world has advanced enough that a black man can be president of the United States,” said Abdoul Aziz Signane, a tailor, purchasing an Obama Tshirt at a shop in the Senegalese capital Dakar.

“It makes us very proud.

That’s why I came to buy a Tshirt so I can welcome him and tell him ‘We love you Obama, a lot’.”

While George W. Bush gave a speech at Goree Island in 2003 in which he called slavery a sin, Obama is not scheduled

middle name as Joseph, but the U.S. government used the name James in some documents and referred to him only as Edward J. Snowden in others.

“These three names are not exactly the same. Therefore, we believed that there was a need to clarify,” Yuen said Tuesday.

Yuen said U.S. authorities also failed to provide Snowden’s passport number.

He said officials received the arrest request on June 15 and sent a request June 21 for clarification. Two days later, Snowden flew to Moscow.

“Up until the moment of Snowden’s departure, the very minute, the U.S. Department of Justice did not reply to our request for further information.

Therefore, in our legal system, there is no legal basis for the requested provisional arrest warrant,” Yuen said. In the absence of such a warrant, the “Hong Kong government has no legal basis for restricting or prohibiting Snowden leaving Hong Kong.”

U.S. officials don’t buy Hong Kong’s explanation, and neither do some legal experts in the city.

“It’s not like he’s some mystery figure. He revealed himself on TV,” said Hong Kong University law professor Simon Young. “The whole world

extradition lawyer Michael Blanchflower said authorities are able to exercise their discretion and use other methods to identify fugitives, who often use aliases.

“It may be in some cases that the person’s name or passport number are not known, but for instance you could have a physical description accompanied by a photograph,” said Blanchflower.

The decision to let Snowden go has raised tensions between the U.S. and Hong Kong. U.S. officials suggested that Beijing had a hand in letting Snowden leave Hong Kong, a former British colony that is now a semiautonomous region with its own legal system. But Hong Kong leaders say they were following the city’s rule of law in processing the U.S. request.

The U.S. Justice Department said the government gave Hong Kong all the information that was required under the terms of their extradition treaty.

“The fugitive’s photos and videos were widely reported through multiple news outlets.

That Hong Kong would ask for more information about his identity demonstrates that it was simply trying to create a pretext for not acting on the provisional arrest request,” a spokeswoman said on condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the department.

Bulgaria Gets Two New Deputy PMs

SOFIA - Bulgaria’s fragile new government, under pressure from daily protest rallies against graft and organized crime, got a sorely needed boost on Thursday when parliament approved two deputy prime ministers.

Lawmakers endorsed Daniela Bobeva, an experienced banker, and Interior Minister Tsvetlin Yovchev as deputies for Bulgaria’s technocrat prime minister, Plamen Oresharski, in a vote postponed from Wednesday.

Oresharski’s coalition, composed of Socialists and the ethnic Turkish MRF and in power for just three weeks, controls barely half of the seats in parliament and relies on the passive support of a nationalist party to stay in office.

It has faced daily calls to resign from mostly young, welleducated protesters after a bungled bid to install a young media mogul as head of the national security service - a highly sensitive post in the NATO member state - without proper debate.

For the protesters the move, quickly reversed by a jittery parliament, highlighted the lack of transparency in Bulgar-

ian public life, where murky ties between businessmen and lawmakers discourage foreign investment and keep living standards low.

“I am here because I believe in the Bulgarian economy, which needs radical reforms,” said Bobeva. “But we need a working parliament for such reforms.”

Bobeva, 55, will be responsible for the coordination of economic policies, foreign investment and improving administrative services for business and citizens.

Yovchev, 49, previously served as chief of administration for President Rosen Plevneliev, who has expressed support for the protesters’ demands for political reforms in Bulgaria.

Six years after joining the European Union, the Black Sea nation remains the poorest member of the 27-strong bloc and monthly salaries average just 400 euros ($520).

Oresharski, a former finance minister, has rejected the protesters’ demands for his resignation, saying this would wreck political stability and damage an economy struggling to emerge from a deep recession.

26 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

International

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Mandela ‘Still There’, Raps Media ‘Vultures’ - Daughter

PRETORIA - Former South African President Nelson Mandela is still clinging to life, his eldest daughter Makaziwe said yesterday, but she blasted foreign media “vultures” for violating his privacy as he lay critically ill in hospital.

Makaziwe’s outburst came after the government reported another downturn in the condition of the 94-year-old antiapartheid hero, who is admired across the world as a symbol of resistance against injustice and of reconciliation.

A deterioration in Mandela’s status after 20 days of treatment for a lung infection forced South African President Jacob Zuma to cancel his participation in a regional summit in neighboring Mozambique yesterday.

“I won’t lie, it doesn’t look good. But as I say, if we speak to him, he responds and tries to open his eyes. He’s still there.

He might be waning off, but he’s still there,” Makaziwe told state broadcaster SABC after visiting her father at the hospital in Pretoria where he is being treated.

Accompanied by a group of grandchildren, she angrily criticized the “bad taste” of foreign media she said were intruding on the privacy of Mandela and his family at this difficult time.

“There’s sort of a racist element with many of the foreign media, where they just cross boundaries,” she said, after running the gauntlet of the pack of camera crews and reporters gathered outside the hospital.

“It’s truly like vultures waiting when the lion has devoured the buffalo, waiting there for the last of the carcass. That’s the image we have as a family,” Makaziwe added.

Her criticism followed several sharp rebukes from Zuma’s spokesman against some foreign media reports that have given alarming details of Mandela’s deteriorating condition.

Spokesman Mac Maharaj declined to comment on the latest report by a major U.S. TV news network that South Africa’s first black president was on life support. He said this was part of Mandela’s confidential relationship with his doctors.

Daughter Makaziwe said: “If people say they really care about Nelson Mandela, then they should respect that. They should respect that there is a part of him that has to be respected.”

She compared the massive media attention on Mandela, who has been in and out of hospital in the last few months with a recurring lung infection, with the coverage of the death in April of former British prime

minister Margaret Thatcher.

“We don’t mind the interest but I just feel it has gone overboard. When Margaret Thatcher was sick in hospital, I didn’t see this kind of media frenzy around Margaret Thatcher,” she said.

“It is only God who knows when the time to go is.”

Mandela’s fourth hospitalization in six months has forced a growing realization among South Africans that the man regarded as the father of their post-apartheid “Rainbow Nation” will not be among them forever.

“Mandela is very old and at that age, life is not good. I just pray that God takes him this time. He must go. He must rest,” said Ida Mashego, a 60year-old office cleaner in Johannesburg’s Sandton financial district.

U.S. President Barack Obama, who is due to visit South Africa this weekend, said his thoughts and prayers were with the Mandela family and South Africans.

Speaking in Senegal, his first stop on a three-nation Africa tour, Obama said that if Mandela dies, his legacy will live on for ages. He confirmed he still planned to travel to South Africa in the coming days, in response to speculation he might re-schedule his trip because of Mandela’s deteriorating health.

Mandela is revered for his

lifetime of opposition to the system of race-based apartheid rule imposed by the white minority government that sentenced him to 27 years in jail, more than half of them on notorious Robben Island.

He is also respected for the way he preached reconciliation after the 1994 transition to multi-racial democracy following three centuries of white domination.

Well-wishers’ messages, bouquets and stuffed animals have piled up outside Mandela’s Johannesburg home and the wall of the hospital compound where he is being treated in the capital.

Protesters wear masks depicting victims of the violent anti-government protests in Turkey in Istanbul’s Taksim Square.

Small Anti-Government Protest Rumble On In Turkish Capital

ANKARA - Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in a residential area of the Turkish capital overnight, setting up barricades and lighting small bonfires.

Weeks of often violent antigovernment protests have mostly died out in Istanbul and the centre of the capital Ankara, but daily demonstrations by a small core have continued in its recently developed working-class Dikmen district.

The protesters, numbering no more than a thousand, blocked Dikmen’s main road with

makeshift barricades and started small fires late on Wednesday, some chanting anti-government slogans.

Riot police and water cannon trucks initially kept their distance but moved in to disperse the protesters in the early hours, footage from anti-government channel Halk TV showed.

The images showed police firing at least two rounds of

Snowden: I Haven’t Spoken To Xi, DAKAR - President because he had not reached Barack Obama said yester- Putin - Obama any of its diplomatic day he had not yet spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping or Russian President Vladimir Putin about the U.S. request to extradite former American spy agency contractor Edward Snowden.

Speaking at a news conference in Senegal at the start of an African tour, Obama said normal legal channels should be sufficient to handle Washington’s request that Snowden, who left Hong Kong for Russia, be returned.

“I have not called President Xi personally or President Putin personally and the reason is...number one, I shouldn’t have to,” Obama said.

“Number two, we’ve got a whole lot of business that we do with China and Russia, and I’m not going to have one case of a suspect who we’re trying to extradite suddenly being elevated to the point where I’ve got to start

doing wheeling and dealing and trading on a whole host of other issues,” Obama said.

Snowden has become an embarrassment for the Obama administration after he leaked details of secret U.S. government surveillance programs.

His fate is now the focus of an international wrangle pitting the United States against its frequent opponents in the U.N. Security Council, China and Russia.

Snowden himself remains in limbo at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport, where he has been waiting in the transit area since his arrival on Sunday. He had been expected to fly to Havana on Monday en route to Ecuador, where he has asked for asylum.

In the Ecuadorean capital of Quito, the government said it had not processed Snowden’s asylum request

premises.

Bristling at suggestions Quito was weighing the pros and cons of Snowden’s case in terms of its own interests, officials also said Ecuador would waive its preferential trade rights under a soon-toexpire treaty with the United States.

teargas and detaining at least one protester.

It was not immediately clear why the protests, which in the early days of the unrest in Ankara were centered around central areas, have persisted in Dikmen.

Several thousand people marched through Dikmen the previous night in protest at the release pending trial of a policeman accused of shooting and killing a protester this month. Police fired teargas and water cannon to disperse them.

The weeks of protests have highlighted divisions in Turkish society, including between religious conservatives who form the bedrock of support for Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan and more liberal Turks.

Four people were killed in the broader unrest, including one policeman, and about 7,500 wounded with injuries ranging from lacerations to breathing difficulties from teargas inhalation, according to the Turkish Medical Association.

A report by children’s rights group Gundem Cocuk said at least 294 people under the age of 18 had been detained between May 28 and June 25 in relation to the unrest. It said some had been exposed to teargas, pressurized water, percussion bombs and been beaten by police with batons.

Turkey has come under international criticism for its handling of the protests, which began in late May as peaceful resistance to plans to redevelop an Istanbul park, but spiraled into broader demonstrations against Erdogan and his government.

The European Union rebuked Turkey this week, postponing a new round of membership talks for at least four months.

Erdogan has held a series of mass rallies across the country since the trouble started, dismissing the protesters as pawns of Turkey’s enemies and calling on his supporters to back his party in municipal elections in March.

Mali Coup Leader Apologises F o r “Mistakes” BAMAKO - The Malian army captain who led a coup last year that plunged the West African nation into crisis and allowed al Qaeda-linked fighters to seize half the country has apologised to the nation for his actions.

Addressing a ceremony meant to reconcile army factions, Captain Amadou Aya Sanogo said events that led to former colonial power France dispatching thousands of troops to halt the Islamist advance were “an accident”.

Once portrayed as a model

democracy, Mali imploded last year when the president was ousted and a mixture of Tuareg separatists and Islamist rebels occupied its desert north.

Though a French-led offensive launched in January broke the Islamists’ grip on northern Mali, the wider region now faces a threat that has been scattered across the Sahel.

“Above being soldiers, we are humans and we make mistakes without meaning to,” Sanogo said late on Wednesday in comments addressed to interim

President Dioncounda Traore, dozens of members of the government, religious leaders and the heads of the Mali’s most important families.

“We dare to hope that our apologies will be accepted,” the U.S.-trained officer said.

Islamist and separatist rebels launched attacks on Mali’s army in early 2012. But shortly after Sanogo’s coup, the rebels seized Mali’s three northern regions in as many days as the thin line of resistance crumbled alongside the chain of command.

27

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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28 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

United Confirm Meulensteen Departure

City Renew Lewandowski Interest MANCHESTER City have reportedly renewed their interest in Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski following the departure of Carlos Tevez.

The Polish international has been repeatedly linked with a summer move to either the Etihad or Bayern Munich, but Dortmund are adamant not to sell him to a rival club.

The Mirror claims his contract is set to reach its expiration date at the end of the season, and Dortmund is said to be willing to accept a big-money offer in order to avoid losing him on a Bosman.

Lewandowski, who scored has 54 goals in 98 Bundesliga games for the German giants, is rated in the region of £25m.

United, Arsenal Linked With Negredo MANCHESTER United and Arsenal are being linked with want-away Sevilla striker Alvaro Negredo.

Sevilla president Jose Maria de Nido admitted earlier this week that Negredo is looking for a move away from the Red and Whites.

De Nido added that Negredo wants to play in the Champions League and that Atletico Madrid have shown interest in signing the Spanish ace, as well as an unnamed club from outside of Spain.

The 27-year-old was the highest Spanish scorer in La Liga last season, with an impressive tally of 25 goals.

Carlos Tevez

Man City, Juve Confirm Tevez He moved to Manchester MANCHESTER City and Transfer United the following season Juventus have confirmed that but headed to City in 2009 Carlos Tevez has signed for the Italian club, bringing an end to his four-year stay in northwest England.

“After 148 appearances and 73 goals for City, Tevez has agreed a three-year deal with the reigning Serie A champions,” City said on their website, mcfc.co.uk, early on Thursday.

“Everyone at Manchester City wishes Carlos the best of luck in Italy and thanks him for his important contributions.”

No further details were disclosed but the 29-year-old Argentina striker was reported on Tuesday to have signed for Juve in a deal that could cost the Turin club up to £13.5 million (16 million euros, $21 million).

Juventus said on juventus.com that Tevez will wear the number 10 shirt and had signed with the club until

June 30, 2016.

A news conference was due to be held at 0930 GMT, they added.

Tevez began his spell in England in 2006/7 at West Ham United, scoring the goal that kept the east London club in the English Premier League.

amid reports of disagreements with then-manager Alex Ferguson.

At City, he captained the club to victory in the FA Cup and was part of the side that won the Sky Blues’ first league title since 1968.

MANCHESTER United have confirmed the departure of first team coach Rene Meulensteen, with the Dutchman considering an offer to link up with Guus Hiddink.

The news had been widely expected following the exits of Mike Phelan and Eric Steele since David Moyes’ appointment as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor.

It has been claimed in Holland that Meulensteen may join Hiddink at superrich Russian outfit Anzhi Makhachkala.

“I would like to thank Sir Alex Ferguson, the owners, all colleagues, players and fans who made my time at Manchester United very special and one I will never forget,” said the Dutchman.

“I wish everyone at this

Gerrard Welcomes ‘Healthy’ Keeper Competition

STEVEN Gerrard has welcomed the ‘healthy’goalkeeping competition at Liverpool following the recent signing of Simon Mignolet.

The Reds recently Belgian and believes it can completed the swoop of the only do the club good. former Sunderland shot“I think who becomes the stopper Mignolet which has Liverpool number one is raised doubts over Pepe going to be Brendan Rodgers’ Reina’s role at the Anfield. decision,” he tells Sky. Gerrard, however, has encouraged the arrival of the

“I think he has gone on the record and said he wants to keep Pepe Reina who is a world class goalie and Mignolet had a fantastic season as well so competition for places is going to be really healthy.

“It is going to be an interesting one, we are going

Mata Dismisses Chelsea Exit He said: ‘You have to CHELSEA’S Player of Talk know people first before the Year Juan Mata has quashed reports linking him with a move to Barcelona, pledging his immediate future to Jose Mourinho’s side.

The Spaniard, who is on duty with his country at the Confederations Cup, enjoyed a fine season at Stamford Bridge but it was thought Mourinho was struggling to fit the playmaker into his plans after the arrival of Andre Schurrle and the return of Kevin de Bruyne.

Barcelona had been credited with an interest in Mata’s services, but the 25year-old insists that he loves playing in the Premier League and living in London.

‘I don’t know where that came from,’ he told AS. ‘The last time I spoke

with the club they told me I was a very important player to them and transmitted confidence in me.

‘I’m sure (new manager Jose) Mourinho will want to see everyone first and then decide what he wants to do.’

The ‘special one’ had been ringing Chelsea players to assure them of their value ahead of the new season, with Ramires and Kevin de Bruyne being told they will be involved in the team’s title hunt.

It is not known if Mata has been contacted since he is on international duty in Brazil, but the midfielder was wary of saying anything about his new boss before they meet.

great football club all the best.”

Executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward added: “I’d like to thank Rene for his contribution to the club, particularly since he returned to Old Trafford in 2007.

“He has been first-team coach for five years and in that time he has given great assistance to Alex and Mike Phelan in keeping the team at the top of the game, not only in this country but in Europe as well.

“On behalf of everyone at United, I wish him well for the future.”

With three of the most senior members of Ferguson’s back-room team now gone, it is anticipated Moyes will bring in some new faces next week.

you can evaluate them.

After the holidays and after I’ve rested I’ll meet the new boss and I’m sure things will go well.’

Mata is involved in a star studded squad at the Confederations Cup, with the World Cup winners winning all three of their group games, with a semifinal against Italy on Thursday.

Steven Gerrard

to have to keep our eye on it.

I know Pepe won’t give up the number one sport without a fight. I have experienced him in top, top form and I think on his day he’s in the top five keepers in the world so it’s going to be an interesting one to keep the eye on.”

The Liverpool skipper also reflected on the signings of Luis Alberto, Iago Aspas and Kolo Toure, revealing his excitement at meeting the new blood at the club.

“I know very little about them, but I have got a lot belief and confidence in Brendan and the scouting department that they are going to make the right decisions and I have seen bits and bobs of new signings we have made,” Gerrard added.

“I am really looking forward to getting back to work next week and seeing what the new players have got to offer and see if they can help strengthen our squad to put in a better fight for a top four finish.”

AVB Rules Out Any Offers For Bale

TO TTENHAM manager Andre Villas-Boas says they will not listen to any offers for Gareth Bale.

Real Madrid want the Spurs star but AVB claims he’s been assured by the club’s hierarchy no bids will be considered.

The Spurs boss has had to fend off reports of a move to Real for his star man all summer.

But AVB claims the Tottenham hierarchy have confirmed to him that no bids will be listened to for the Welsh winger, no matter how big.

“The chairman said that we are not open to offers, whatever they are, and that the player will stay,” he told Portuguese newspaper O Jogo.

“In football anything can happen, but these are the

guarantees given to me.”

The 23-year-old scored 21 league goals last season and picked up both the PFA Players’ Player and Young Player of the Year awards.

But he may not have had such a ground-breaking campaign were it not for a heart-to-heart with his manager, AVB revealed.

“There was a moment last

season when he came to me because he was not comfortable out on the pitch,” he added.

“I do not know if it was my response or that he was glad to relieve the stress, but after that he became confident and played with freedom.

“He felt important and finished the year in style.”

29

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

State To Foot Zambia’s Ghana Preps THE Zambian government will foot Zambia’s 2014 World Cup preps for the September 6 clash against Ghana in Kumasi.

Zambia’s deputy minister of sport Chinga Miyutu told Parliament in Lusaka on Tuesday that government was doing its utmost to help the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) in its quest to see the team qualify for next year’s Brazil finals.

“The Government will continue to support the team until it qualifies to the World Cup in Brazil,”

Miyutu said.

“FAZ had put in place some preparatory measures for the friendly game against Namibia and plans are under way to camp the team in West Africa.”

Zambia, who have never qualified to the FIFA World Cup, are second in Group D on 11 points, one behind leaders Ghana ahead of the two side crucial September showdown that the visitors must win to advance to the final round.

Confederation Cup

‘Inexperience Killed Eagles’

SANI Kaita has told MTNFootball.com Nigeria bowed out of the Confederations Cup because they paraded some inexperienced players.

The African champions Uruguay and Spain and thrashed Tahiti, but lost to so failed to reach the

semi-finals of the tournament in Brazil.

Kaita saluted the Eagles doggedness, but

Hitzfeld Hails Pep’s OTTMAR Hitzfeld has Attitude hailed new Bayern Munich [Nevio] Scala failed because coach Pep Guardiola for his “humility and commitment”.

The current Switzerland boss, who spent a total of seven years in charge of the Bavarians, believes that his former employers have hired a man of impeccable character.

“I’ve met him at coaches’ meetings,” Hitzfeld revealed in an interview with Bild.

“He is a very likeable fellow: open and honest, with a very respectful approach.

“And from his first appearance [as Bayern boss], he exemplified what he also requires of his players: a humility and commitment towards Bayern.

“That he already speaks German speaks volumes for his character. It is also a huge advantage, in order to be able to talk to players directly, but also understand the media.

“Others, such as [Giovanni] Trapattoni or

they did not speak the language.”

Guardiola has succeeded Jupp Heynckes at the helm of the Bavarians, after taking a year-long sabbatical from the game following a hugely successful fourseason stint with Barcelona

Kaita

Djourou Set To Join Hamburg On Loan ARSENAL’S Swiss defender Johan Djourou is set to join Bundesliga side Hamburg for a year on loan with a option to buy, the north German side’s director of sport Oliver Kreuzer has said.

Djourou, 26, impressed earlier this year during a six-month loan spell at Hanover 96, making 14 Bundesliga appearances, and Hamburg look to have won the race with their German league rivals to secure his services.

“I am sure it will happen,” Kreuzer told Hamburg’s Morgenpost newspaper, with football magazine Kicker reporting Djourou has already signed a contract.

Hanover look to have lost out on Djourou simply because of finances.

“We can not, and do not want to, do some irrational economic things. We pushed our limits. Hamburg could do things which we simply couldn’t,” Hanover’s director of sport Dirk Dufner told German daily Bild.

Igesund Confident In Plan BAFANA Bafana coach Gordon Igesund admits that they have made mistakes in the last year, but he is adamant that the national team is on the right track to success.

Igesund was full of optimism for the future when he named his 20-man squad to do battle in the COSAFA Cup in Zambia in July, but did so by suggesting that they had let the country down over the past year.

Igesund, though, is confident that in the future they have the right plan in place to succeed if he is at the helm of the national squad or not.

“We have let ourselves down over the last year, but the most important thing is that we are able to admit it and see what the problem is, and we have had the best brains in football discussing the way forward, and this is the way forward,”

explained Igesund.

“When I joined the association, we had a plan put in place and a plan going forward up until 2018.

“Where we are now, we have identified the problems, and they are the same problems, swopping and changing of coaches. What one coach has done before falls away every time, that is not going to happen anymore.

“We have identified that we want all the players that play for the national team to come through the development programmes, the Under 17s, Under 20s and the Under 23s.

That way we will all play the same style of football and the players can adapt to the system.

“We are going to stick to this programme. The problem has been that we have had a whole group of players playing for the

national team and hardly any of them have come through the development programme. We have to identify the younger players and they are now going to be coming through.”

Looking at his own future, Igesund explains that he has a contract till 2014, but whether he stays at the helm of Bafana Bafana or not, he is confident that if SAFA stick to the plan it will be a success.

“Whatever happens, the plan is there, it is in place and we have to stick to it. We have to make sure we stick to this programme, every coach, it doesn’t matter who is in charge,” added Igesund.

“I have a contract until 2014 but we are working towards AFCON 2015 and the World Cup 2018, and if I am not here after 2014 then the next guy must come in and stick to the same plan or we will go back to square one.”

Djourou has been at Arsenal since 2004, making 86 appearances for the Gunners and is under contract until 2015, having won 40 caps for Switzerland.

After Cameroon striker Jacques Zoua, who has signed from Basel, Djourou would be the club’s second

new addition in the off season.

Manchester City’s Uruguay striker Roque Santa Cruz, 31, and defender Lasse Sobiech, 22, from Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund are also Hamburg targets before preseason training starts on Monday.

said had they played more experienced players, they would have gone past the group stage.

“Eagles did their best in Brazil but that was not good enough as the team lacked experience and had it been there were more experienced players, it would have been a different story.

“You can’t rule out experience in football, it counts a lot especially when youthfulness and power have failed.

“There is room for improvement in the team. I can’t tell the coach players to pick, that is his job and I am sure being an experienced man in the game, he knows what to do.”

Meanwhile, the former Kano Pillars midfielder told MTNFootball.com that he will put his career back on track by joining a team in Germany or Ukraine soon.

Kaita, who left Cyprus team Olympiakos Nicosia for personal reasons, told MTNFootball.com that teams from Germany and Ukraine have shown in interest to sign him.

Ayew Brothers Yet To Write ANDRE and Jordan I speak to you now Ghana FA the‘’Yes asGhana Ayew are yet to officially Football write to the Ghana Football Association to announce their availability.

The Olympique Marseille were talked out of temporary retirement by Ghana president John

Andre and Jordan

Mahama two weeks ago.

Reports suggest the sons of football legend Abedi Pele were directed by the country’s leader to formally write to the Ghana FA stating they have ended their selfimposed exiles.

Association has not received any official letter from Dede or his junior brother, Jordan Ayew,” Ghana FA spokesperson Ibrahim Sannie told Footy Ghana. ‘’The Ghana Football Association is ever ready for them and if indeed they have rescinded their decision the GFA will be glad to see them put that on paper and send it like what they did some time ago, but as I speak to you, not even the GFA President has received an official letter from the Ayews.’’

It will be recalled that both quit the national team after they were excluded from the Ghana’s squad to the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

Andre claimed his relationship with some management members had deteriorated and his younger brother wanted to be assured of a regular playing time.

30 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

31

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

Refs To Get More For Better Job THE Nigeria league will pay referees at least 100,000 Naira (about $600) a game in the second round for a better output.

“The League Management Company (LMC) has agreed that the remuneration of match officials will be a minimum of 100,000 per match from the second stanza of the league,” Nigeria Referees Association (NRA) president Ahmed Maude disclosed.

“This measure is part of moves to ensure that the league gets the best of officiating because there have been complaints that there were instances of poor officiating during the first round.”

Also, the LMC and club owners have agreed new sharing formula for the clubs in respect of sponsorship cash.

With the new arrangement, clubs would now earn in

accordance to their ranking on the league table.

This decision was reached after over an eight-hour of meeting between the club owners and the LMC. “We have agreed to put up a standard structure that would ensure that all monies that come to the league are shared in accordance to the structure,” said LMC member Shehu Dikko.

Edo Coaches Election: Adorin Returns As

By NICHOLAS EBOIGBE

TAEKWONDO coach, Arthur Adorin retained his office as the president of Edo State Coaches Association in the election which took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium yesterday.

Others who also retained their offices were Bello Orogho Vice Chairman, Tony Owens Secretary, Osayomore Aigbe (Assistant Secretary), Dele Obasuyi is the Financial

personality who has the

Secretary, Andrew Oibo got her Public Relations Officer back even as Lawrence Osoria was unanimously elected as the Auditor of the Association.

The Secretary of the Coaches Association, Tony Owens told Observer Sports that the executive will perform better in the next three years while in office to develop sports in the state. He disclosed that the body will solicit for the assistance of the State

CARLOS Tevez, who has joined Juventus, has said he asked to leave Manchester City after deciding his time at the Etihad Stadium had come to an end.

Tevez, 29, completed a +9 million move to the Serie A champions on Wednesday and, speaking at his unveiling, described his eventful time with City as “beautiful”.

The Argentina international striker scored 74 goals for the club, captaining them to their FA Cup final win in 2011 and

Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Edo State Governor

Oshiomhole To Flag Off Olympic Day Run

By KEHINDE OSAGIEDE

THE Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole will tomorrow Saturday, flag off this year’s Olympic Day Run in Benin City.

According to Ogbemudia Stadium and information made go through some available to the Nigerian designated routes in the Observer Sports by state capital. officials of the State The exercise which is Ministry of Youth and expected to be carried out Sports, the race will start simultaneously across the at 7.00am from the Samuel

country will have the Comrade Governor being accompanied by the state Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Mobilization, Hon. Omorede Osifo and other state officials in the exercise.

The Sports Ministry also informed the Nigerian Observer Sports that

Chelsea’s Bid For Raising Dutch Star In Doubt

CHELSEA’S bid to make Vitesse Arnhem midfielder Marco van Ginkel their second signing of the European summer is in doubt.

Standard Sport understands Chelsea are still some way off from reaching an agreement with the Dutch club for the 20-year-old midfielder, having begun their spending spree with the arrival of Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen for £18million yesterday.

Vitesse have already rejected an £8m offer from

Government and corporate bodies as part of effort to train coaches through seminars and workshops in order to develop sports in the state. He said the Association will focus on the development of sports from the grassroots.

Owens thanked the Governor for his immense financial support which made Edo contingent to participate in the last National Sports Festival.

The Edo Coaches scribe plead with the Comrade Governor Oshiomhole to assist in putting in shape, some of the dilapidated facilities in the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

He described the commissioner for sports, Hon. Omorede Osifo as a dynamic

“I want to advise our athletes to give the Sports Commissioner, Hon. Omorede Osifo some time to settle down to find lasting solutions to challenges of Edo sports. She will surprise us by delivering the goods.’’

Meanwhile, the chairman of the electoral committee, Coach Austin Fatogun has charged the executive members to live up to expectation as they serve in office in the next three years in order to justify the confidence which the Edo coaches reposed in them by electing them.

Other members of the electoral body were Emmanuel Obasuyi, Omoregbe Festus, Jude Atoe and Sunny Edeki.

I Asked To Leave City, Says Tevez

Fed Cup Rangers Smash Past Dan Lawn RANGERS thumped non-league side Dan Lawan FC 6-0 in a Federation Cup Round of 64 game played at Rwang Pam Stadium in Jos on Wednesday.

Rangers will now face Samba FC in the Round of 32.

The 2013 CAF Confederation Cup campaigners got the curtain raiser through Haliru Umar, before Junior Anyasodo made it 2-0 for ‘The Flying Antelopes’ to end the first half 2-0.

Oghogho Oduokpe extended the Enugu club’s lead and then Junior Anyasodo completed a brace to take the scores to 4-0.

Seun Taro and Onoriode Odah were the other goals scorers.

of the challenges President knowledge confronting athletes.

Chelsea for Van Ginkel, who is also being targeted by Manchester United, and continue to demand £15m for him. Van Ginkel’s agent Karel Jansen today denied quotes attributed to him that suggested he had held positive talks with manager Jose Mourinho.

He said: “Nothing is sure.

There is interest but it is not the time for all parties to say something about it. A lot of things are being said and written and it’s a bit chaotic.

From our side we are just keeping quiet and we will see

what happens.”

Van Ginkel is highly-rated in Holland and has already earned a cap for the national team. Vitesse Arnhem teammate Theo Janssen revealed earlier this week that he has told Van Ginkel to make the move to west London should a fee be agreed.

He said: “If he thinks he’s ready for the next step, then he must do it. I think he is ready but the step to Chelsea is very big.

“It’s the plan that he’ll join the Chelsea squad, learn a lot and play on a regular basis. It

all looks very positive but he must make his own decision.

I told him that opportunities like this don’t come that often and, if you get a chance like this, then you must do it.”

Jose Mourinho

adequate security measure has been put in place to ensure a hitch free exercise in the state, adding that registration of participants will begin by 7.00am, before the race proper.

helping them lift the Premier League trophy 12 months later.

But he was also fined and suspended after refusing to go on as a substitute against Bayern Munich in September 2011, lost the captaincy and made frequent transfer requests.

His departure was more amicable, and he told the Italian media: “I thank Juventus for the effort they have made to bring me here. And I thank Manchester City for the beautiful years they gave me.”

Tevez, who also played for West Ham and Manchester United during his time in England, said he had informed new City manager Manuel Pellegrini that it was time for a change.

He added: “I talked to Pellegrini, telling him that I wanted to go away from Manchester City because I considered my cycle ended there.”

Tevez, who wore the number 32 shirt in the Premier League, has been given Juventus’ iconic number ten shirt, last worn by club record goalscorer Alessandro del Piero.

Berbatov To See Out Fulham FULHAM striker Contract

Dimitar Berbatov will see out the remaining year of his Craven Cottage contract, his agent has said.

Berbatov, 32, was the Cottagers’ top scorer last season, netting 15 Premier League goals following his move to West London from Manchester United.

The Bulgarian has been linked with a summer move to Russia, and Zenit St Petersburg are believed to have expressed firm interest in a deal.

However, Berbatov’s agent, Emil Danchev, said the player would be staying put and was happy with life at Craven

Cottage.

“He has another one year [on his] contract with Fulham, and he will stay at Fulham until the end of his contract,” Danchev was quoted as saying by the Evening Standard.

“He’s happy at Fulham and he wants to stay another year. I don’t want to comment on other clubs. Even if there is interest, he’s happy and he wants to stay. He will play football for at least two more years.”

However, Danchez had said a move to Russia could be an appealing possibility for Berbatov at a later stage.

CMYK

32 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

SURE-P: The Immoral Gifts

THE Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) is supposed to be considered as wonderful gifts coming from the Federal Government. It is even expected to be perceived more as a well-meaning programme since being headed by Dr. Christopher Kolade, a former British High Commissioner, one of the few Nigerians that have made telling impressions in their chosen profession with little or no moral blemish.

Truly, I have no doubt in the moral capacity of Dr. Kolade’s transparent management of the project. But I have my reservations about a man who has been much known as presiding from such a sanctified professional altar – suddenly not minding to manage the offerings that have clearly and forcefully been stolen from the poor.

Because of the uncommon mystery in the handling of the country’s oil, Nigerians have been told to appreciate the uprightness of a watchman (the Federal Government) for accepting his inability to properly protect the oil in his custody.

Moreover, Nigerians have been made to accept that these thieves have the capacity to steal even the well along with its oil without recourse to anybody’s actions. And for Nigerians to keep benefitting from the oil proceeds at all, it must enter into a workable negotiation with the thieves.

Fortunately for all Nigerians also, the watchman (Federal Government) is forthright and creative enough to have brokered a fair deal - which involves Nigerians having to pay ‘protection money’ through the easiest and most convenient means of increased cost of petroleum products. And so the federal government has helped Nigerians to manage their liabilities by spreading the burden of existence over a lifetime of fractionalised payments.

In life, when we are faced with difficult options; our ingenuity plays out in the

ability to identify the less difficult ones, and the weakest point to crack. Fighting the cartel was considered very risky and untraditional. How does one get rid of the insect which prefers the man’s scrotum as the safest place to feed from? How does a most honest person go to a gathering to announce that

is sinless that would be bold enough to cast the first stone? This is our misfortune. The tragedy of the commons; a phenomenon in which individuals attempt to exploit the resources of a group, but only end up harming themselves because everyone is now adopting the same strategy

they are made to pay ‘protection money’ to the lords who are in control of everything including the processes of who governs Nigeria. Why should the Federal Government live with the humiliation of shamefully telling Nigerians that the cartel has barred it from fulfilling the revamping of the refineries? Therefore, if it

• Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy

his father is a thief? Even when such a child has all the physical evidence to support his accusation, but for the good reason of dissuading their own from likewise, some elders would still prefer the deployment of wisdom which demands using an ‘elderly judgement’ to teach the child that his bravery should be bridled because of the insensitive of defecating on ones sanctuary.

As a result of this, it has always been convenient to take the fight to the ordinary Nigerian: The ones who have been economically and politically brow-beaten to accept their misfortune with candour. Inasmuch as these persist, the dire situation of the Federal Government can be understood.

The huge question is; who

of either violently depleting the common resources, putting the general security in jeopardy, or hacking the future with our actions; which has now resulted in a wellladen suspicion and hatred for one another.

It really does not show boldness or the character of somebody in-charge if Nigerians were rightly told how

would take one of Jesus’ to betray Him; so be it. And when you have the right combination of a renowned World Bank’s genus and an accomplished personality in the magnitude of industries and diplomacy, then Nigerians must appreciate that the removal of fuel subsidy is an unavoidable option.

However, should there ex-

FEED BACK

By KINGSLEY OGBEIDE-IHAMA

ist a document within the precinct of the Federal Government which credits the ownership of the oil in Nigeria’s territory to this cartel, Nigerians should be saved the time of wondering in the mist for any clue as to why the problems in the petroleum sector have remained unsolvable.

However, there is no gainsaying that the Federal Government deserves its full wages for this ‘wonderful duty’ being performed on behalf of Nigerians. As it is also in its determination of acting on behalf of the people, the Federal Government might have thought it wise to come up with the SURE-P; a programme through which it aims to cushion the effect of Nigerians having to pay ‘protection money’.

But in any case, Nigerians purely know the worth of a gift when they are wholesomely offered. Not even the ones that would end-up being devalued because of their use as political baits.

And not the gifts Nigerians have collectively and forcefully been made to pay in advance for: Or the ones that would be in strict management of not only a particular political party, but the anointed political faction in a particular political party.

In my perception, the SURE-P initiative is like offering to Nigerians the golden-calf that has been made from the jewellery

forcefully taken away from them. I strongly believe that asking Nigerians to keep their jewellery is more worthy than a golden-calf as an idol which is meant to be served and believed to have the magical power of solving the people’s problems.

The golden-calf or SURE-P initiative symbolises our corruption: Even when it represents the fraction that the federal government has been able to persuade the feudal lords to grant Nigerians, it nevertheless codifies some of the nagging battles we have lacked the will to win.

Moreover, if Nigerians really had the choice, they would have preferred these experts managers employed where they can exhibit their competencies in the area of preventing the thieves, and not in the area of negotiating with the them or how best to manage what the thieves have decided to cast overboard in order to lighten their sail. And when Nigerians are asked to traditionally file out to celebrate all the golden-calves that would emanate from the jewellery being forcefully taken away from them in this manner, I would expect these renowned economists and other personalities in the corridors of power to truthfully tell Nigerians if they are not being massively short-changed from all these deals.

“. . . the Federal Government might have thought it wise to come up with the SURE-P; a programme through which it aims to cushion the effect of Nigerians having to pay ‘protection money’. But in any case, Nigerians purely know the worth of a gift when they are wholesomely offered. Not even the ones that would end-up being devalued because of their use as political baits.”

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