The Nigerian
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968 ART AND CULTURE Page 19
Pantheon culture
INTERNATIONAL FEATURES Page 25 Egypt
A Pyrrhic landslide victory
• Vol. 39 NO.002• FRIDAY, MAY 30, 20 14 • N100.00
No unremitted $48.9bn by NNPC
By JOSES SEDE ABUJA - Contrary to much ado about alleged un-remitted whopping US$49.8 billion (N3.756 trillion) proceeds from sales of the country’s crude by the Nigeria
- Senate C’ttee
National Petroleum Corporation to the Federation Account, it has been discovered that “there was never any un-remitted
US$48.9 billion”. Also, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation and the Nigeria Petroleum Development
Company are to remit $927,887,238.32 (N148,461,958,131.20) to the Federation Accounts being shortfalls in their crude oil transactions on behalf of Nigerian Continues on page 2
Terrorism
Jonathan orders full scale war
ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday directed the security forces to launch a full-scale military operation to put an end to the impunity of terrorists in the country. The president gave the of schoolgirls in directive in his democracy Chibok, Borno. day broadcast. “It is now 45 days Jonathan said that since the horrifying Nigeria’s unity and abduction of the stability as well as the college girls of Chibok. protection of lives and I share the deep pain property were nonand anxiety of their negotiable. He restated the determination of his administration to protect the nation’s democracy, national unity and political stability, by waging a total war against terrorism. The president said the activities of terror groups in the country had caused debilitating pains and horror on the nation, particularly the abduction
parents and guardians. “I assure them once again that government will continue to do everything possible to bring our daughters home. “I have also authorised the security forces to use any means necessary
under the law to ensure that this is done. “I assure you that Nigeria will be safe again, and that these thugs will be driven
away. “It will not happen overnight, but we will spare no effort to achieve this goal.” Jonathan, however, said that government would be open to dialogue and reconciliation with any one or group willing to genuinely renounce
Low-Key Democracy celebration in Benin
By FAITH ISIKHUEMEN/ MARTIN ERHARUYI / BLESSING SUNDAY BENIN CITY – The celebration of Democracy Day in Benin City was low-keyed yesterday as activities ebbed and the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was virtually empty, devoid of the usual celebration. However, it was reliably gathered that since the assumption of office by the All Progressive Congress (APC) led government in Edo State, the day had never been marked
in the state, except with public holidays. It was also reliably gathered that the move may not be unconnected with the belief by the APC in South West states that June 12 rather than May 29 should be observed as Democracy Day. A visit to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium where such activities are usually marked indicated that the premises was devoid of any social activities and the usual hustle and bustle of commercial activities. There was also an indication that the Continues on page 2
TIT BIT
“Evil gets sweeter when the doomsday is nearer”. - Kinglsey Ogbeide-Ihama
2014 DEMOCRACY DAY: L-R: Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji, Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, Minister of FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed, Chief of Staff to the President, Retired Brig.-Gen. Oladehinde Arogbofa, President Goodluck Jonathan and First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, at the 2014 Democracy Day in Abuja yesterday.
15 yrs Of Democracy
terror. For our citizens who have joined hands with Al Qaeda and international terrorists in the misguided belief that violence can possibly solve their problems, our doors remain open to them for dialogue and reconciliation, if they renounce terrorism and embrace peace. “My government, while pursuing security measures, will explore all options, including readiness to accept unconditional renonciation of violence by insurgents. “Government will also ensure their deradicalization, rehabilitation and reintegration into the broader society.” The president underscored the need for all Nigerians to remain united to win the war against terrorism. “Christians, Muslims, farmers, fishermen, herdsmen, teachers, lawyers, clergy or clerics, the rich, the poor and Nigerians from all sections of the country must work together. “The war against terror may be difficult, but the days of peace will come again. Terror is evil; nowhere in history has evil endured forever. The menace of Boko Haram will surely come to an end. I believe that Continues on page 2
Nigeria has made progress ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan said yesterday that Nigeria had made notable progress in the last 15 years of uninterrupted democratic governance. The president, who made the assertion in a national broadcast to mark the 2014 Democracy Day, paid
tribute to all those who played a part in restoring the nation to the true path of
democratic governance. He said that though, he had ordered a low-key commemoration in deference
to the current mood of the nation, the past 15
years had been a blessing. “As a result of our Continues on page 2
BENIN CITY- Edo State Head of Service, Mr. Igbakemen Jerry Obazele has charged
store officers in Ministries, Parastatales and agencies of government to ensure that
government property in their possession are protected and accounted for when the
need arises. Mr. Obazele gave the charge in Benin City Continues on page 2
- Jonathan
HOS tasks public officers
News
No unremitted $48.9bn by NPC
Continued from page 1
federation. President Goodluck Jonathan is to submit to the National Assembly, a Supplementary Budget covering N90.693 billion (US$585 million) and N685.910 billion (US$4.430 billion) for kerosene (DPK) subsidy expended without appropriation for 2012 and 2013 respectively. These were contained in the report which was laid at the table yesterday, by Sen. Ahmed Makarfi led Senate Committee on Finance that investigated the NNPC over allegations of fraud leveled against it by the suspended Governor of the Central Bank, Mallam Lamido Sanusi.
The report indicted NNPC for withholding US$218,069,354.32 (N34,891,096,691.20) being Federation Account share from the “Third Party Financing” and US$262 million (N41,920 billion), being expenses it could not satisfactorily defend in respect of Holding Strategic Stock Reserve, Pipeline Maintenance and Management Cost, and Capital Expenditure. Also, the NPDC is to remit to the Federation Account U S $ 4 4 7 , 8 1 7 , 8 8 4 (N71,650,861,440) being balance of Royalty and Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), which they failed to remit. The Committee further recommended expeditious passage of the long pending Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).
They recommended that NNPC should not pay their operational expenditures direct from the Federation fund without appropriation by NASS, and that it should not control the revenue account of NPDC in order not to undermine its separate legal status and make accountability more difficult. Furthermore, the Committee recommended further legislative action by the Senate should be taken after receipt of the forensic check/audit currently being undertaken at the NNPC by the Auditor-General for the Federation and PWC. Other recommendations by the Senate panel
Nigeria has made progress Continued from page 1
collective efforts since 1999, democratic governance is now entrenched in our nation and institutions. “I wholeheartedly believe that our people are the better for it. “The scope of fundamental rights and liberties enjoyed by our people over the past 15 years has been expanded beyond measure.” Specifically, the president said that Nigeria under his watch had witnessed high national economic growth rates, steady improvements and expansion of national infrastructure. He said there had been significant expansion in airports and roads, the restoration of rail transportation, the efficient implementation of a roadmap for improved power supply and a revolutionary approach to agricultural production. Jonathan said that there were advances in education, sports, youth development, healthcare delivery, housing, water supply and other social services. In the oil and gas sector, Jonathan said there had been promotion of a sustainable local content policy, better opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs and skilled personnel. He said that significant increase in mobile telephone and national broadband penetration had made Information and Communications Technology (ICT) one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy. “We have developed strong financial markets and regulatory institutions. Our banks now have regional and global footprints. “Nigeria has also gained recognition as the largest economy in Africa, the most preferred investment destination in the continent, in terms of returns on investment, the fourth in the world. “We are pleased that the world has noticed, as global leaders converged in Abuja early this month for the World Economic Forum in Africa.” Jonathan said that the WEF brought the prospect of an additional flow of investment into the Nigerian economy estimated at over 68 billion dollars over the next few
years. He said the country had equally done well in foreign relations by establishing and strengthening strong partnerships with all ECOWAS countries and the rest of the world. “This has helped to deepen Nigeria’s leadership role in multilateral institutions, including the United Nations,” he said. The president said that under his administration, the nation made consistent progress in improving the standard of elections. He said that the National Conference he initiated would make recommendations on the best ways of resolving the nation’s current political and socio-economic challenges. “It is our expectation that its outcomes will help to further consolidate the gains we have made from democracy in the past 15 years, and place our dear nation even more firmly on the path to greatness,” he said.
We should not despair - Mark Meanwhile, Senate President, David Mark, has urged Nigerians not to despair in spite of the challenges bedeviling the nation, saying “democracy remains the best and acceptable form of government in the world.’’ Mark made the disclosure yesterday in Abuja at a special Church service at St. Mulumba’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Apo, Abuja, to mark this year’s Democracy Day. He described democracy as participatory, adding that Nigeria remained the hope of Africa and as such, Nigerians should not despair. He said “we must remain resolute because there will be light at the end of the tunnel.’’ On the security situation in the country, Mark appealed to Nigerians to cooperate with government and security operatives to fight terrorism and insurgency ravaging the land. He prayed for the quick, safe and unconditional release of the over 200 schoolgirls abducted from Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno on April 14. The Senate president said “we pray that God will touch the hearts of the schoolgirls’ abductors to free them even as we do everything humanly possible to rescue them.’’
He, however, maintained that swapping them for criminals was not an option. He enjoined the Federal Government and the striking Polytechnics and Colleges of Education lecturers to return to the negotiating table to resolve the contending issues and end the strike. He lamented that a situation where over 50 per cent of the academic session was spent on strike was unhealthy for national development. While assuring that the National Assembly would always stand by the people, he urged citizens to continue to remain law abiding. In his homily, the Chaplain of the Chaplaincy, Rev. Fr. Innocent Jooji, encouraged Nigerians to preach and work for peace, justice and unity of all Nigerians. In Sokoto, Dr Abubakar Lawali, a don, called on Nigerians to unite toward defending the nation’s democracy. Lawali, of the Department of Crop Science, Usaman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, said that the survival of democracy would enable the country to effectively tap its human and mineral resources for the desired optimal development. He said the present security challenges required the support of all Nigerians, through the promotion of peace and co-existence to ensure the survival of the democracy. The don said that democracy dividends could only be possible in an atmosphere of peace. Abubakar urged the political class to preach political tolerance and understanding among their followers and not to see political contest as a do or die affair. In Damaturu, Nigerians marked the Democracy Day with joy, describing the completion of the KanoMaiduguri road project as “a monumental democracy dividend.” Many motorists and commuters plying the road told newsmen in Damaturu that the completion of the road would reduce the rate of accident.
included that: Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) should henceforth not certify payments/deductions when there is no appropriation for such; The Senate mandates the Committee to follow up to ensure all sums recommended for remittance to the Federation Account are remitted and report back to the Senate; The Senate also mandates the Committee to follow up and receive the forensic audit/ checks reports from the Auditor-General of the Federation and PWC study same and report back to the Senate. Sanusi had spuriously claimed in a leaked letter to President Goodluck Jonathan that $49.8 billion in crude oil revenue was missing. The Sen. Makarfi Senate panel “could not see how the figure was arrived at by Sanusi”. The suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria had at first hearing put forward the figure of US$12 billion as monies to be reconciled and changed his position to US$20 billion at subsequent hearing. At the conclusion of his written submission, he posited that it could be US$20 billion, US$10.8 billion or anything in between.
Low-Key Democracy celebration in Benin Continued from page 1 Stadium Road which was usually characterized by heavy traffic congestion during such activities witnessed free flow of human and vehicular traffic. A walk round the Benin City metropolis, also revealed that public and many private offices, including schools were under lock and key as workers and students observed the holiday.
Jonathan orders full scale war Continued from page 1 because of your prayers, your courage, hardwork, faith and sacrifice, we will ultimately prevail over the terrorists and all other evil forces.” The president commended the Armed Forces for the supreme price they had paid in confronting insecurity and urged Nigerians to always appreciate them rather than castigate them. “We must show confidence in their ability. I have no doubt that, with the support of Nigerians, our neighbours and the international community, we will reinforce our defence, free our girls and rid Nigeria of terrorists,” he said. Jonathan expressed optimism that the nation would overcome its challenges and Nigeria would take her rightful place in the world.
Benin Monarch, PCRC resolve Uhogua Communal crisis By ROLAND OSAKUE UHOGUA (BENIN CITY) – The lingering power tussle in Uhogua Community, Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State has been finally laid to rest following the amicable resolution brokered by the Benin Monarch, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa. Consequently, members of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee (PCRC) led by Chief Eduwu Ekhator Obasogie, the Obasogie of Benin Kingdom, have upheld the peace deal by the palace to further strengthen the position of the Monarch. The leadership feud which was earlier resolved at the palace of the Benin Monarch on 23rd November, 2012 however, resurfaced at the PCRC, where the matter was also resolved in tandem with the one at the palace, during the week. Reaching its decision, Chairman of PCRC, Chief Eduwu Ekhator Obasogie said the committee would not upturn the decision of His Royal Majesty as his wisdom on any matter was evergreen and renewed on daily basis,
hence it predicated its rulings on the earlier decision of the Monarch. Speaking shortly after the ruling, the Chairman Uhogua Community, Mr. Monday Osayande and his Deputy, John Uhiengbonmwan practically knelt down to thank the members of the committee, even as they expressed appreciation to the Governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for his foresight in putting the committee in place. The community chairman, who pledged to wholeheartedly abide by the decision and the advice given him by the palace and the members of the PCRC, also urged the people of his community to join hands with him to ensure the socioeconomic development of Uhogua community. Meanwhile, the PCRC set up by the Edo State Government to look into issues arising from various communities in the state, as well as proffering solutions through amicably resolution of crises has remained a rallying point in the state. It would be recalled that communal crises have substantially reduced in Edo State since the constitution of the committee by the state government.
Another Autocrash claims 14 lives at Ewu By OSE EHEBHA EWU - Fourteen persons yesterday lost their lives in a fatal auto crash on the BeninOkene Highway, by Ewu slope, Esan Central Local Area of Edo State. The accident involved a 15Seater Toyota Hiace bus, belonging to a Transport Service and articulated vehicle. It was gathered that a truck smashed the bus against another truck following brake failure. The NIGERIAN OBSERVER learnt from an eyewitness that the bus over took the truck and was inbetween two trucks, oblivious to the driver that the truck he over took had brake failure. The eyewitness lamented that the truck behind suddenly smashed the bus against the other truck resulting in the instant death of 14 occupants of the bus, including the driver. Corpses of the dead victims
have been deposited in the morgue of the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Irrua-Edo State, while the injured victims are receiving treatment at the same hospital. As at the time of this report, men of the Federal Road Safety Corps were making frantic efforts to address the gridlock occasioned by the accident. Chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Edo Central, Senatorial District, Mike Odiahi who lamented the frequent accident at the spot, advised motorists against careless overtaking, urging them to always obey traffic rules and regulations. He advocated the introduction of compulsory driving school for all road users as a way of reducing road crashes, while appealing to public spirited individuals to assist Red Cross with Ambulance vehicle to ease rescue operations.
HOS tasks public officers Continued from page 1
while declaring open, a seminar for Store officers in the state public service. Represented by the permanent Secretary, Establishment, Obazele said the seminar was borne out of the need to enhance the knowledge of stores management. According to him, the task of proper and effective accountability for government property would be a mirage without competent and well informed officers. He disclosed that the skills acquired from the seminar will assist the stores officers handling schedules, which he added, is central to keeping genuine records of government. Mr. Obazele disclosed that he will work towards fulfilling the mandate given him by the State Governor, Comrade Adams
Oshiomhole to ensure that public servants are given the needed training to enhance their productivity. He applauded the state government’s commitment to training and retraining of all categories of staff in the state public service. He enjoined the participants at the seminar to actively participate throughout the duration of the seminar, saying that, it was the only way government resources committed to the seminar could be justified. Participants were drawn from government ministries, departments, parastatal and agencies. With the Head of Service at the seminar were Mr. Gilbert Adegboyega, Director of Administration, Mr. Sam Okpeaye, Public Relations Officer, Mr. Muhammad Ikhelowa, Director of Training and Mrs. Mercy Okoh.
Inside Edo Edo Monthly Sanitation Holds Tomorrow BENIN CITY- The may edition of the monthly environmental sanitation in Edo State will hold tomorrow, Saturday May 31, 2014 between the hours of 7am and 10pm without restriction in human and vehicular movement. A statement by the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Environment and Public Utilities Major Lawrence Loye (Rtd) requested members of the public to clean their premises, desilt drains in front of their houses and collect refuse together for easy disposal by the state Waste Management Board. According to the statement it is important for the general public to note that every household must have appropriate waste bins with cover for their refuse storage in order to avoid littering of waste. Consequently the statement directed all Local Government Councils to adequately finance their Health Department to embark on intensive evacuation of refuse within their council area, while appreciating everyone for being part of efforts to make the state clean.
Congress: Aspirant Applauds APC Leadership By ANDY EGBON
Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (left) receiving a plaque for an award from Brig-Gen. Azinta during the commissioning of water borehole project built by the State Government at Ekewan Army Barracks near Benin City. PHOTO: CHARITY OZIGBO.
Youth Leader Hails Edo APC Congress By MATTHEW OKAGHA
BENIN CITY - The newly elected State Youth Leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Edo State, Comrade
Osakpamwan Eriyo has described the peaceful and successful conduct of the just-concluded state congress as a testimony of the unity and strength of the
indivisible family and a formidable political force in the state. He thanked all those who made his election as the state youth leader possible, adding that he is more than ever prepared to commit his energy, and other resources including experience to the party. Comrade Eriyo described the newly elected APC state chairman, Barr. Anselm Ojezua as a square peg in a square hole, adding that the chairman and other members of the state executive have the pre-requisite experience, passion and drive to move the party forward in Edo State. He called on youths in the state to remain focus and not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to perpetrate violence in any form, adding that the Comrade Governor and the party have demonstrated that the youths can channel their energy and strength into positive political force for the good of the society.
Don Admonishes Youths
To Position Themselves BENIN CITY- Chairman Board of Trustees, University of Benin (UNIBEN), Professor Uche Gbenedo has admonished Nigerian youths to effectively discharge their duties both to themselves and the Nigeria Nation, without apportioning blames. Speaking at the 2014 Children’s./Youth Day conference organised in Benin City by the Bethsham Youth
APC in Edo State. Comrade Eriyo commended the state Governor and leader of the APC in the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the party’s national leader, Chief Tom Ikimi and all the delegates to the Congress for presenting the APC as one
Ekewan Community women drinking from the tap water borehole built by Edo State Government at Ekewan Army Barracks, near Benin City. PHOTO: CHRITY OZIGBO-ESERE.
Leadership Role: By IJEOMA UMEH BY BETTY IDIALU
AGENEBODE (ETSAKO EAST) Edo State House of Assembly aspirant in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state, Hon. Kingsley Ugabi has applauded the leadership of the All progressive Congress (APC) for the successful conduct of the state congress. In a chat with newsmen in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area Ugabi said the conduct of the congress was legendary, against the backdrop of the peaceful orderliness and democratic nature. While congratulating the APC state chairman, Barrister Anslem Ojezua and other executive officers for being found worthy to serve in the various capacity,
Organisation, he said the admonition has become necessary for youths to take their rightful position in the task of building the nation. Gbenedo who was represented by Dr. R.B. Danner of the faculty of Education, UNIBEN told the over 200 young persons and youth organisation in attendance described youths as the most active and exuberant citizens who constitute the highest
percentage of any nation’s population. She also described youths as a force to reckon with in the development agenda of Nigeria, particularly when their potentials are effectively and properly harnessed and with clear definition, assigned to them. She called the youths to shun all negative factors, including crime and other anti-socio vices, while acknowledging the several mitigating factors that impede on the nation’s
progress and as well cause eventual disharmony in the operations of youth. Lecture were delivered in various topics, including, “Rape Types and effects on the victim”, and society”. In his address, convener of the event and co-ordinator of the Bethsham Youth Organisation, Rev’d Humphrey Ereghan noted that the position of youths as agents of change cannot be traded for anything else as it was imperative for concrete steps to be taken by all well meaning individuals in
addressing and properly squaring up with those issues which appear as clogs in the pursuit of a well- defined future for the youth. President, Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations ( CONGOs), Comrade Jude Obasanmi, also noting the readiness of civil society organisations to champion the cause of victims of rape, enjoined survivors to report rape and all forms of abuse while advising youths to shun tendencies and behaviour that predisposes them to be victims of rape.
Ugabi urged them to endevour to lead APC in the state to greater heights. He also praised the state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and other leaders for making the people have confidence in APC through the ballot.
New Odionwere promises To Promote Unity
By ROLAND OSAKUE BENIN CITY – The newly installed Odionwere of MidWest Street, by five junction and its environs in Benin City, Pa Augustine Ekhator has promised to uphold the tenents of his office in order to ensure the unity of people in the area. Pa Ekhator, whose installation coincided with his 75th birthday anniversary amidst pomp and ceremonies said he would ensure that inhabitants of the area are united and disposed to the socialwelfare of those in the area. He assured the people that he would not betray the confidence reposed in him by the people, while appealing to them to join hands with him in the fight against crime in the area. According to him, “I am ready to serve as the mantle of leadership has fallen on me, but, I want to beg everyone of you to assist me to fight crime in this area”. He noted that the fight against crime should be a collective one, rather than leaving it in the hands of security men alone. While thanking God for adding another year to his life, Pa Ekhator enjoined the people to put their trust in God, whom he said is the giver of life and position. Also speaking, the former Group Sports Editor of The Nigerian OBSERVER, Mr. Clement Elaho described the Odionwere as a skillful man endowed with the wisdom of God in handling any situation before him. He explained that the inhabitants of Mid-West Street, particularly the landlords and landladies would enjoy his gift of humour and wealth of experience which the Odionwere had acquired over the years. The highlight of the ceremony was the formal installation of Pa Ekhator as the Odionwere of the area at the “Ogua –Edim” by the inhabitants of the area.
Mr. Augustine Ekhator
News Council Boss Charges Nigerians On Dedication
Democracy Day: AGENEBODEThe Chairman, Etsako East Local Government Council, Hon. Abdulmalik Suleiman Afegbua has called on Nigerians to rededicate themselves towards creation of enabling environment that would guarantee the security and welfare of all, especially the
children. He stated this during the 2014 Children’s day celebration. Represented by the council Vice Chairman, Hon. John
Alimikhena, the Etsako East Local Government boss said it behoves on Nigerians to unite against societal evils that are capable of destroying the children, noting that they have the right to adequate
President Goodluck Jonathan receiving key to a made in Nigeria NISSAN Vehicle from the Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, at the 2014 Democracy Day Exhibition in Abuja yesterday. with them are First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan (4th left), Vice President Namadi Sambo (left) and others.
security, qualitative education, health care, protection from child’s labour, sex and drug abuse. The council chairman who decried the activities of Boko Haram insurgents that have created internal security challenges for Nigeria, called for appropriate measures that could lead to the freedom of the Chibok School girls held captive. While advising children to shun all social vices, he implored them to engage in productive ventures that would be of benefit to them. He stressed the need for parents and guardians to attend to the needs and welfare of their children, maintaining that his administration is irrevocably committed to the provision of quality education and health care delivery, for that would guarantee their future. The theme of this year ’s celebration which featured several activities, is “unite for peace in Nigeria”. Present at the event were, the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Benedicta Attoh, Head of Local Government Administration, Mr. Monday Oike; Councillors, Supervisors, Heads of Department
NUPENG Boss Flays Nigerian Leadership
15 Years Of Democracy: BENIN CITY – Comrade Bello Aneru, the National Vice President, National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) Workers, Warri zone has expressed sadness over poor leadership qualities in Nigeria, during the last 15 years of democracy. He made the assertion in Benin City, while fielding questions from newsmen. The NUPENG boss stressed
that the purpose of fighting for freedom from the hands of the military juntas with the clamour for democratic government has already been defeated as the so called leaders who have not lived by examples have continually subjected the people they supposed to have led to hardship.
Speaking further, the Auchi born administrator posited that it was ideal that the country is experiencing democracy, but that the implementation styles of the leadership was not encouraging. He appreciated the roles played by President Goodluck Jonathan in making life more
Edo Line Boss VisitsOnBenin the entourage were Mr. woghiren, the new Monarch Nicholas company’s Secretary and an in-law
BENIN CITY - The Sole Administrator of Edo Line Transport Company Limited and a prominent Chief in Benin Kingdom, Chief, Dr. John Osamede Adun, the Ayobahan of Benin Kingdom, on Tuesday led the management staff of the first premier transport company in Nigeria, on a courtesy visit to the palace of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa. In his remark, the Edo Line Boss noted that he and his team were in the palace to intimate the monarch of his recent appointment as the Sole Administrator by the Executive Governor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, and also to seek his royal blessings to enable him tackle the herculean task of transforming the state owned transport company to greater height. He posited that the transport company was closed down in the year 2010, following protest of the workers against maladministration and misappropriation of the company’s money by the former board. The Managing Director of Bob Izua Conglomerates, stressed that he was shocked when the governor called and mandated him to resuscitate the transport company which he gladly accepted. The Oba of Benin thanked Chief Adun and his team for the visit and assured them of his fatherly and spiritual support towards realization of his dreams of transforming Edo Line to return to its once enviable status as the number one transport company in
and other top council officials. Meanwhile, the council chairman has inaugurated a Street Naming Committee. Describing the committee as strategic, he implored members to work diligently to accomplish the desired goals. He said that many people are ignorant of the laws and principle governing the acquisition and naming of streets, noting that there is the need to sensitize the people on the legal implications. He added that the committee will also boost the revenue base of the council through its activities and therefore called on members of the committee to see their appointment as an opportunity to serve the people of Etsako East. Responding on behalf of the members, Barrister Sunday Okhale, the Head of legal Department of the council appreciated the concern of Hon. Afegbua for the people of Etsako East. He promised not to betray the confidence reposed in them, adding that they will ensure things are well done. The committee which has the council Vice Chairman, Hon. John Alimikhena as Chairman drew members from across the entire local government area.
Nigeria. He advised Chief John Adun to use his wealth of experience in the transport industry to rejuvenate Edo Line. Chief Esosa Eghobamien, was mandated by the Oba to offer prayers for Chief Adun and his team for God and ancestor’s protection upon their lives, for good health, long life and wisdom to actualise their objectives. The revered monarch, thanked the governor for appointing one of his chiefs to man that position in the state. He described the appointment as the manifestation of the unflitching and unalloyed respect and implicit confidence the governor has for the traditional institution where he (governor) has enjoyed close working relationship with the Oba since becoming a governor of the state. Chief Adun promised the monarch not to breach the confidence reposed in him and that he would step up his plans to protect the dignity and integrity of the traditional institution and indeed the entire Edo people. In the same vein, Chief Henry Bazuaye JP, the Aiwerioghene of Benin kingdom urged the new Edo Line Bosss to live up to his responsibilities and imbibe the culture of rewarding hardworking and honest workers, especially the drivers who live up to their expectations in their various assignments for the purposes of motivation for the company to grow rapindly.
to the Oba of Benin, Hon. Melo Edokpolo, SSA. to the Edo state Governor on Commerce, Chief Osamede Adun assured the monarch that the first phase of the fifty Buses he ordered would be made available on Friday this week to augment the old ones in the Edo Line premise.
meaningful for Nigerians through infrastructural development, but however noted that leaders even at the state levels are using their positions to amass wealth at the detriment of the people. According to him, until the Nigerian leaders change their minds the people would continue to have hope for new progressive Nigeria which would be far reaching. He therefore urged Nigerians to pray for divine change in leadership of the country which is endowed with abundant resources for the country to move forward. The oil magnate who flayed the celebration of Democracy Day called for concerted efforts of the people in the fight against
insecurity and corruption so as to make life bearable for every one. He cited presidential system of government as the greatest problems of Nigeria and suggested monarchial system of government as the best system in ideal situation to promote noble cause and core values of the people. On the issues of the Boko Haram Insurgent, Comrade Aneru extolled the virtue of the president in handling it with utmost care. He noted that the sophisticated weapons used by them were brought into this country through the porous border during the military era, saying that unless the president plays along with them, he cannot achieve his aims.
First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan (3rd right), with ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians who paid her a courtesy visit in Abuja yesterday.
LG C’ttee Visits Rainstorm Victims LAMPESE (AKOKOEDO)- Following the rain storm disaster that struck at Lampese, in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State and rendered many people homeless and properties destroyed; the council Chairman, Hon. Joseph Folorunsho Akerejola in his swift response directed the Departments concerned to visit the community and ascertain the level of damage done. During the visit, the councillor for Health; Mr. Faith Balogun accompanied by the councillors for Education, Information, Youth and Sports, and Works conducted the team round the affected quarters in Lampese. The victims of the disaster in separate remark called on government to come to their aid in salvaging the situation as they are now living at the mercy of neighbours. Mrs. Augustina Ajulor, a widow who had her home fully destroyed said the rain started at about 5pm and had to stay with a neighbour. a
CAMP To Hold Public Lecture Today By OBOH SYLVESTER
BENIN CITY- Catholic Media Practitioners (CAMP), Edo State Chapter will today May 30, 2014 organise a public lecture to mark the 48th World Communication day which comes up on Sunday June 1, 2014. The lecture with the theme: “Communication at the service of an Authentic Culture of Encounter” is to be delivered by a devoted Catholic and Professor of Mass Communication, University of Benin (UNIBEN), Professor Marcel Okhakhil. A statement by President of CAMP Mr. Godwin Egbe and Chairman of the organising Committee, Mr. Patrick Owlabi indicated that the lecture will hold at the Youth Centre, St Paul Catholic Church, Airport Road, Benin City.
Confab: ABUJA - A delegate to the ongoing National Conference, Sen. Tilley Gyado, has urged the conference to declare a three-day fasting to seek God’s forgiveness “for sins committed in the guise of religion”. Gyado, who made the plea, while making contributions to
News
Delegate Calls For 3-day Fasting the report of the Conference Committee on Religion, said that the call became necessary given the level of atrocities that had been committed in the country in the name of religion. “Before we leave this conference I suggest three days of fasting. Please don’t serve lunch in those three days and we will achieve
peace. “God is very angry with us and I think we must seek God’s peace. We must ask God for His mercy. “We have offended the downtrodden. Those of us, who have been given responsible positions to look after the downtrodden, have cheated on
them. “We should go back and rebuild the middle class. The middle class has been destroyed and without the middle class in any country, that country will not succeed.” The delegate, who is representing Benue State at the
By JOSES SEDE
L-R: President, Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, Sheikh Ahmad Lemu; A Supreme Court Judge, Justice Ibrahim Muhammad; former Chief Justice of Nigeria, retired justice Alfa Belgore; Vice Chairman, National Conference, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi and the widower, retired Justice Idris Kutigi, praying for the repose of Hajia Mariam Kutigi’s soul, at her burial at Gudu cemetery in Abuja on Wednesday.
ABUJA A delegate representing Civil Society Organisation at the on-going National Conference, Dr. Maryam Abdullahi, has accused former military President, Ibrahim Babangida of starting religious crises in Nigeria. In her contribution to the debate on the report of the conference Committee on Religion, during plenary, Dr. Abdullahi insisted that the former military ruler pushed Nigeria into membership of the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) without the consent of the people he was ruling, a development, she noted, started religious crises in the country. She insisted that the relationship between Christians and Muslims deteriorated when
Remains of Hajia Mariam Kutigi, wife of retired Justice Idris Kutigi, being buried at Gudu cemetery in Abuja on Wednesday.
Confab Delegates Want Pilgrims Board Abolished
ABUJA - Delegates at the National Conference disagreed with a clause in the recommendations of its Standing Committee on Religion. An amendment sought by Chief Olushola Akanmode for the scrapping of pilgrims boards, sharply divided delegates and consequently aborted conference proceedings. Akanmode had argued that since a recommendation by the committee that government should stop funding pilgrimage had been approved, there was no need to retain the boards any further. He said that if the boards remained, government could still be sponsoring pilgrims “through the back doors.” When the Deputy Chairman of the conference, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi put it to voice vote, those who supported scrapping the boards had the day.
IBB Calls For Adequate Enlightenment 2016 Census:
MINNA - Former Military President Ibrahim Babangida has urged the National Population Commission (NPC) to adequately publicise the aims and objectives of census before embarking on the 2016 headcount. Babangida made the call when some staff members of the NPC, led by Mr. Aliyu Datti, visited him in Minna. “Wrong perception of what census is all about which characterised past head counts conducted in the country had rendered the exercise
humanity. He stressed that unless Nigerians adhered to the true teachings of our religions devoid of hatred, corruption and other forms of vices, no amount of religious commissions would solve religious extremism in the country.
IBB Founded Religious Crisis In Nigeria -Confab
NSA Denies Managing Defence Funds ABUJA - The Office of the National Security Adviser has denied the allegation that it managed the funds of the Ministry of Defence. This is contained in a statement issued by Mr. Karounwi Adekunle, Special Assistant Media to the National Security Adviser, in Abuja. The statement, which reacted to a report, stated clearly and unambiguously that the office was separate from the ministry in all budgetary affairs. The statement stated that the office and the ministry defended their budgets separately before the National Assembly. According to the statement, all budgetary provisions are clearly spelt out and within the public domain. It added that the office had no responsibility for military personnel salaries and allowances, capital projects or otherwise, adding that all were within the domain of the ministry. “So, how can the office of national security adviser has been accused of managing defence funds?”
conference, attributed the controversies surrounding the issue of religion in the country to lack of commitment to the various religions. Gyado said Nigerians had hidden under the guise of religion to commit various horrible crimes against
controversial. “This development should be discouraged. We are all Nigerians. We should not go to war over census figures”, he said. Babangida said the inclusion of religion and tribe as part of the information required is one of the main causes of the controversies which usually come up at the end of every exercise. “Those who are fanatical about religion or tribe will want the outcome to be in favour of their
religion or tribe. “We should try and remove all these things that tend to cause controversy”, he added. He said the 1991 census conducted by his administration failed to impress on the people that headcount was not about religion or tribe but about numbers needed for planning at all levels of government. He commended the ongoing sensitisation by the NPC, adding that it would go a long way in strengthening census in the country.
“If we are able to make the next exercise look normal and devoid of all these issues, it will help get rid of the attendant controversies after the exercise”, Babangida said. He urged the commission to ensure adequate publicity and sensitisation of the next exercise. Earlier, Datti told the former head of state that the commission was consulting with principal actors of previous census to ensure that the 2016 exercise was acceptable.
Delegate
Nigeria was admitted as a full member of Organisation of the Islamic Conference. Abdullahi, specifically said Babangida, who pushed for Nigeria’s full membership of OIC, did that to manipulate religion in order to perpetuate himself in office, insisting that this was the beginning of mistrust between adherents of the two faith because of mutual suspicion of possible Islamization of Nigeria. The delegate who spoke to the applause of her colleagues, said: “The relationship between Christians and Muslims deteriorated when Nigeria was admitted as full member of Organisation of the Islamic Countries. “This made Christians to start resisting any move that would portray Nigeria as an Islamic state. “Consequent to this, there is the prevailing mistrust and disharmony between the adherents of the two religions in the country. “Mr. Chairman, the then Head of State, that pushed for the admission of Nigeria into OIC did not do that in consultation with the Muslims. He did that in order to manipulate religion as a political tool to perpetuate himself in office and now Nigeria is the worst for it,” she said.
Adamawa Trains 105 Visually Impaired People YOLA - The Adamawa government has trained 105 visually impaired persons in various skills last year, the state branch of the Nigeria Association for the Blind has said. The chairman of the association, Mr. Abubakar Gombi, stated this in an interview with newsmen in Yola. Gombi said that the beneficiaries were trained under the state government’s local apprenticeship scheme, adding that the government also offered employment to 49 physically challenged persons within the period. He stated that the association had established committees to promote its activities, seek employment for the members, create educational opportunities and facilitate sporting activities among them. Gombi appealed to the state government and other publicspirited individuals to assist the association to better the future of its members.
News Breast-Fed Babies Have Lesser Risks Of Infection -Expert
DIG Operations, Mr. Mike Zuokoumor, fielding questions on the Ekiti June 21 Gubernatorial election at the Police Command headquarters, Ado-Ekiti recently.
IBADAN – Mrs. Modupe Aina, a public Health Expert and Community Health Nurse at the University College Hospital, (UCH) Ibadan, has said that babies who were breast-fed have lesser risks of contacting diseases. Aina, who is the Deputy Director of Public Health, UCH, said this while speaking with newsmen in Ibadan. Aina said that breast milk was different from formula milk as it contains substances like antibodies that simply could not be manufactured in the formula. She explained that antibodies help to protect babies from infection and stimulate babies’ immune system. “Studies have compared the health of children who were breast fed as babies and children who were fed on formula milk. “Results showed that breast
Educationist Calls For Cultural Revival IBADAN - An educationist, Ayo Ojelabi, has called for cultural revival in the country as a way of curbing criminal tendencies among the youths. Ojelabi made the call while delivering a lecture at the Children’s Day Celebration held at the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan. “Nigeria is blessed with abundant cultural heritage scattered within the diverse ethnic nationalities. “These heritage include language, marriage rites, burial rites, dressing, music, greeting,
folklore, religion and cultural monuments. “Some of these cultures have died due to western influences and,therefore, need to be revitalised and uploaded if those who know how they are performed are still alive,” he said. The theme of this year ’s celebration is: “Together We Preserve Our Cultural Heritage, says the Nigerian Child.” The guest speaker said the advent of ICT had forced librarians to operate with
Police Poised To Mop-Up Illegal Arms By BETTY IDIALU WARRI (Delta) - Ahead of the 2015 general elections in Nigeria and the planned mop up of arms from all over Delta State by a Special Taskforce of the State Police Command from all those who have illegally acquired them, the Warri Area Commander, ACP Rabiu Hussaini has called on members of the public particularly residents of Warri and environs to voluntarily surrender all illegal arms in their possessions to the police so as to avoid the long arm of the law catching up with them. He said the police was working round the clock to ensure the safety of lives and properties in the State. Speaking to journalists at the Area Command in Warri, ACP Rabiu while parading the corpse of a notorious armed robber, said following complaints from members of the public about armed robbers trailing customers from the bank, he summoned all his Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) who immediately swung in to action. According to the Warri Area Commander, has policemen on patrol around Ogunu Road, Warri were alerted by one Felicity Oduone who raised alarm when seven armed men in Toyota Camry Cars attempted to rob him of N120,000 he had withdrawn from IBTC
Bank, Ogunu. “The Patrol Team in response gave the hoodlums a hot chase. One Isaac Andrew was killed. He was later confirmed dead at the Central Hospital Warri. Efforts are on to apprehend the other fleeing suspects and recover their weapons. further development will be communicated to you, please.” ACP, Hussaini Rabiu said. Speaking further, Rabiu said while also parading photographs and file of the dead robber, that he was apprehended some time ago and charged to court but was later released on bail before he met his Waterloo. The Toyota Camry car the robber was driving and the car of the victim were said to have been recovered. On youths restiveness at Ekpan Community, the Area Commander said both the Police and Soldiers are on top of the situation. ACP Rabiu Hussaini confirmed the death of one youth, adding that the police are on the trail of a man identified as a.k.a Mali who shot and killed the youth. He urged the general public to employ dialogue rather then violence in resolving disputes. According to him, Mali was apprehended sometime ago with an AK 47 riffle by soldiers .
concepts like information society, digitalisation, cyberspace and information superhighway. “These technologies have forced the developed world to operate in a context of change which automatically affects the ways our cultural heritage are documented, preserved and practised,” he said. Ojelade said ICT had brought the culture, folklore and heritage of western countries to many homes, adding that there was need to return to tradition. “Returning to our culture should include ensuring that our children speak the mother language, learn how to prepare local food, dress, share stories,
talk to relatives, preserve and look at photographs, create a family tree, attend festivals and learn about religion,’’ he said. Amos Eniolorunda, the Curator of the museum, said the event was being celebrated in honour of the children. “Also, we are marking Children’s Day in order to emphasise the right of children and the fact that they must be protected,” he said. The curator also called for the release of the more than 200 schoolgirls abducted in Chibock, Borno. Among the schools present at the event were Ibadan Grammar School, St. Theresa, Queen School and Vale College.
By ABIODUN AFOLABI
randy teacher. It was gathered that the boys then arranged that they should be informed immediately after another sexual assault takes place. However, while planning to write a letter to the school authority about the indecent acts of Mr Folarin, the perpetrator caught them and subjected them to some strokes of the Cain and
feeding substantially reduced the risk of illness in such babies. This protection could last for many years and the longer babies breast feed, the greater the health benefits. “However breast feeding for a short time, even for a few days or weeks, was better than not at all. “The World Health Organisation recommended
breast feeding with no other food or drink until around six months of age. “Mothers could continue breast feeding with other food and drinks as long as it was convenient for them,” she added. Aina explained that specific health benefits for the baby included less risk of diarrhoea, tummy upsets and gastroenteritis, cough, ear, chest, and urine infections.
FRSC Issues 620 Driver’s Licenses OSOGBO - The Osun Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) issued 22,620 driver’s licences to motorists in the state between January and April, the Commander, Mr. Muhammad Husaini, has said. Husaini stated this in an interview with newsmen in Osogbo. He said that the figure comprised of fresh applicants for the new driver’s licence, and those who required upgrading to new licences. He said information on the new driver’s licence had been uploaded in the FRSC data base, adding that authentic licences were those issued by the commission. Husaini urged motorists not to patronise touts or middlemen while processing and procuring their driver’s
licences. “Any driver’s license procured without the bearer going to the commission’s office for physical image capturing and provision of biodata is not authentic. “Anybody using a driver’s licence procured through payment to a middleman without making a physical appearance at the commission’s registration and capturing office is using a fake driver’s license,” he said. Husaini warned motorists against patronising middlemen or touts while processing their driver’s license, adding that the commission had not authorised anyone to act on its behalf. He also warned that anyone caught using a fake driver’s licence would be apprehended, saying such acts contravened the FRSC law.
in the process tore the letter. Angered at their punishment, the boys encouraged the girls to open up to their Guardian, Mrs Temilolu Morounkeji who runs the Home for Orphans and Vulnerable Children after school hours. Furious at the revelation, Mrs Morounkeji and Pastor Marcus Williams, a member of the Child Protection Network hurried to
the school and informed the police from the Iyanganku division who effected the arrest of Mr Folarin. It was gathered that the girls were sexually abused whenever the Head Teacher was not around during which the suspect would invite any of the girls into the toilet, order them to put off their pants, apply lubricant and then penetrate the girls.
School Teacher Docked For Rape
IBADAN ~ A private school teacher, Olayinka Oluwadare Folarin has been arrested by the Oyo state Police command for allegedly raping three girls at the Calvary Heritage Kiddies Castle, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan. The victims, who are primary five pupils are between ages ten and eleven years and have been sexually abused by their teacher since 2013 on a weekly basis. Two of the victims are orphans in the His Heritage Home, a nongovernmental organization home where orphans and vulnerable children are catered for. They have been living in the home since they were two years of age. According to the police spokesperson, Folarin had been defiling the girls since 2013 on a weekly basis inside the school toilet with a threat to kill the victims if they inform anybody. Father of four who was alleged to have been sacked from his previous school on account of rape, reportedly used lubricant gel on the girls for easy penetration. However, the bubble burst last week wednesday when a group of male students found one of the victims crying and asked what was the problem during which the girl confided in them that she was being sexually abused by the
L-R: Director, Agriculture and Agro-Industry, African Development Bank, Dr. Chiji Ojukwu; member, IITA Board of Trustees, Dr. Namanga Ngongi and Director-General, IITA, Dr. Nteranya Sanginga, at the workshop on engagement of youth entrepreneurship for Agricultural transformation in Africa in Ibadan recently.
Lagos NGO Holds Prayer Session
SSANU Strike Paralyses Activities At LASU LAGOS- The strike by the Senior Staff Association of Universities (SSANU) Lagos State University (LASU) Ojo Chapter, has paralysed activities at the institution. Mr Saheed Oseni, Chairman, SSANU, LASU Chapter, told newsmen in Lagos that its members had fully complied with the strike directive by staying off duty. Reports state that the union had declared a total and indefinite strike, effective May 26, after the expiration of a 7day ultimatum issued the institution’s management on May 16. The union had earlier gone on strike in September 2013 and suspended it on Jan.13, after the government pledged to meet its demands. It resumed its strike following the failure of the government to keep its promise. SSANU had demanded the implementation of the 2011/ 2012 staff promotion, which it said was pending due to the “No Vacancy, No Promotion” policy of the management. It also demanded the implementation of the 65-year retirement age for its members; and the reversal of the hike in school fees. Oseni said the union would continue the strike until all its demands were met. He said the union’s monitoring team led by the chairman, had gone round the university’s offices to ensure that none of its members was working. “All our members complied fully with the strike because it was a unanimous decision and none of them was found working in any of the offices,” he said.
Oseni urged the management not to coax any of its members to work, as the union would do everything possible to resist it. “Management must recognise that we are on strike, and should not force any of our members to work, because it prohibits the law guiding the union,” he said. The unionist charged members not to be intimidated or coerced to work, as any member found working would be sanctioned accordingly. Meanwhile, Mr Kayode Sutton, the Public Relations Officer of the institution, told newsmen that a management meeting was ongoing, to resolve the lingering issues. Reports state that the Academic Staff Union of Universities chapter in the university is also on strike, an action they started on May 20.
Chibok Girls:
L-R: Son, Mr Femi Otedola; 1st daughter, Pastor Mosunmola Otedola; Gov Babatunde fashola of Lagos; widow, Lady Doja Otedola and Lagos Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, at the tribute for former Lagos Governor, Sir Michael otedola in Lagos on Wednesday.
Students protesting alledged government’s refusal to meet the demands of Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), which led to protracted strikes in the affected institutions, in Lagos on Wednesday.
Lagos Gives N119.7m Housing Loan To Workers
IKEJA- The Lagos State Government said it had disbursed N119.7 million as housing loan to its workers in last one year. Mrs. Oluseyi Williams, the Head of Service, made the disclosure at the 2014 Ministerial Briefing in Ikeja. She said a total of 555 officers benefited from the facility within the period. According to her, the loan was to enable the beneficiaries acquire land and build their own houses. Williams said that the government had also allocated apartments to some workers at the various staff quarters, to ease their accommodation problems. She said no fewer than 100 brand new cars were procured for use of directors in the state’s civil service within the period. Williams said the government was passionate about the welfare of its
workforce and would continue to initiate programmes that would guarantee this. She explained that the subsidy meal programme for workers and free bus services were part of the government’s strategies to improve the welfare of workers. The head of service said the state government had recruited 2,586 officers into the state’s civil service in the last one year. “This figure includes those in the teaching and medical services,’’ she said. Williams said no fewer than 5,000 secondary school students were engaged for two months during the period for holiday job, explaining that the objective was to meaningfully engage the students. The head of service said 35
officers were honoured for exemplary service under the state’s Productivity Merit Award during the period.
She explained that the award was to appreciate the contributions of workers to service and encourage them to
Children’s Day: LAGOS- No fewer than 1, 500 children had a train ride to commemorate the 2014 Children’s Day in Lagos, newsmen reports. The children were aboard a train which departed Iddo Terminus at 11: 00 a. m. for Ijoko in Ogun. One of the children onboard, Tola Ajayi, 10, told newsmen that it was her first time of enjoying rail transport. “The ride is very good. This is my first time of enjoying rail transport; I think I like it,’’ she said. Another child, eight-year-old Bose Adelakun, also expressed great excitement over the ride, saying she preferred it to road
do more. Williams urged workers to continue to do their best to drive development in the state, adding that government would continue to do its best to help them achieve their career and personal goals.
LAGOS- An NGO, Fatima Tinubu Foundation has called on Nigerians to be fervent in prayers for the safe release of the Chibok girls and lasting peace in the country. Mrs. Binta Fatima-Tinubu , the President of the foundation, made the call at an inter- faith prayer session held for the girls in Lagos. “It is rather unfortunate that this year’s children’s day celebration has been put in dilemma by insurgents. “We have decided as mothers that the day is not a period of celebration but a time to be more prayerful by standing in the gap for the innocent girls and for tranquility to reign in Nigeria,’’ she said. According to her, the incident is painful and unfortunate. “No nation has become great in an atmosphere of insecurity in the mould of the one currently besetting our dear country. “All hands must be on deck to end this national nightmare,’’ she said. Mrs. Fehintola Okunola, a lawyer, said that the abduction of the girls had dented the children’s day celebration. Okunola prayed for mercy over the country and a genuine repentance on the part of the abductors. “These are innocent children who have no offence and are defenceless. “You can imagine the state of their parents now,’’ Okunola said. A human rights activist, Yemisi Ransome-Kuti, however, called on the Federal Government to ensure adequate security of the citizens. “When over 200 souls that constitute the future of this nation are taken away at once, it is a shock to the system,’’ Ransome-Kuti said.
1,500 Children Enjoy Train Ride
transport. Victor Nduka, another of the children told newsmen: “This is not my first time of boarding a train, I usually board it any time I travel with my parents abroad during vacation. “The coaches there (Overseas) are good and neater than these, but this is also good.’’ Mr Ademuyiwa Adekanbi, the spokesman of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) Lagos District, told newsmen that the ride was an annual event aimed at making children to catch fun. “The children need to be acquainted with the rail transport especially now that
the trains are back on track. “It will be a life experience for many of them,’’ he said. The Managing Director, Honey Well Flour Mill Plc, Mr Lanre Jaiyeola, whose company also supported the ride, said it was aimed at giving back to children who constituted the major consumers of the instant noodles. “It is an opportunity to interface with a group of people who form the core of our target market. “Of course, children, by statistics, account for the largest percentage of consumers of instant noodles. For us, it is a
way of giving the children a lot of fun,’’ Jaiyeola said. Mr Victor Raji, the President of the Children Guide Association, said the ride was part of the association’s programmes to educate children on means of transportation. “We want the children to learn and catch fun, we do it in form of excursion to teach children about means of transportation,’’ Raji said. Reports state that children from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Railway Officers Wives Association, CILA Royal School, the Children Guide Association and the Apostolic Church participated in the ride.
Across The Nation 2014 Budget
Hajia Fatimah Isa (left), receiving a souvenir from the representative of wife of Bauchi State Governor, Mrs. Hope Egwu, at a Primary Health Care Centre in Bauchi State recently.
Abduction Of Chibok Girls
LG Proposes N4bn MANGU (Plateau) - Mangu Local Government of Plateau has presented a budget of N4.049 billion to the legislative arm of the council for the 2014 fiscal year. The budget, tagged: “Budget of emancipation”, is almost double the N2.134 billion budget of 2013. The Council Chairman, Mr. Caleb Mutfwang, said that the budget was targeted toward the foundation for successful execution of the administration’s programmes. Mutfwang, while presenting the budget to the legislative arm of the council, said that more than N1.447 billion was for recurrent expenditure out of
NAWOJ, Groups Protest
SOKOTO (Sokoto State) Scores of women, including female journalists, in Sokoto held a peaceful protest against the kidnap of Chibok school girls. The protest was organised by the state chapter of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in conjunction with the State Ministry of Women and Chidren Affairs. Newsmen reports that the event was organised to commemorate the 2014 Children’s Day celebrations in
the state. Receiving the protesters, Governor Aliyu Wamakko, said the day should be used to pray for peace and security in the country. Wamakko, who spoke through the Women and Children Affairs Commissioner, Hajiya Kulu Nuhu, said, “prayers will help in finding lasting solutions to the security challenge in Nigeria.” “I am glad to receive you and assure you that your message will be passed to the
appropriate authorities for necessary action”, the governor said. The NAWOJ Chairperson in the state, Rabi Gwadabawa, said the protest was meant to show solidarity with the current national and global efforts to free the abducted girls. The Chairman of the Nigeria
Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the state, Mr. Labaran Dundaye, appealed to the Federal Government to compensate the victims of insurgency across the nation. Dundaye also urged the federal government to accept the prisoner swap offer by members of the Boko Haram sect, who abducted the girls.
which N915 million was for personnel cost; N263 million for over-head while N268 million for debt settlement. He also announced that N1.550 billion had been earmarked for capital projects while N1.052 billion was set aside as miscellaneous. The chairman said that the budget would be financed by Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of N96.4 million and an expected Federation Account of N3.952 billion. “This council intends to carry out some deliberate economic policies and programmes toward its economic emancipation, to meet up with the redemption programmes of Governor. Jonah Jang’s administration. “We can only achieve this goal when all the citizens of this area give unalloyed cooperation and support toward the replication of the transformation and redemption agenda of both federal and state governments,” he said. Mutfwang urged the staff of the council to give their best in the execution of policies and programmes of his administration. Responding, the council’s House Leader, Mr. Amos Zumi,
Theft: Man, 28, Arraigned M A R A R A B A (Nassarawa) - The police in Nasarawa State have arraigned a 28-year-old commercial motorcyclist, Samuel Yusuf, in a Senior Magistrates’ Court, charged with stealing motorcycle. The accused, of Anguwa Mission Masaka, is facing a one count charge of theft. The prosecutor, Mr. Banikole Olusanmi, told the court that the matter was reported at Sani Abacha Police Station, Mararaba, by one James Matawa, also of Anguwa Mission Masaka on October 30, 2013. Banikole told the court that the complainant bought an unregistered Bajaj Boxer Motorcycle with registration No 52199 and Chasis No 52332, valued at N115,000 for commercial purpose. He said the accused, who was in charge of the motorcycle, claimed that it was stolen by unknown person. According to him, the
offence contravenes section 287 of the Penal Code. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Senior Magistrate, Mr. Jerimah Danladi, granted the accused bail for N200,000 with a surety who must have a traceable address within the court’s Jurisdiction. He adjourned the case until June 19 for hearing
Representative of the Bauchi State Governor, Mrs. Hope Egwu (middle) and pupils of Abdulmumini Orphanage Nursery and Primary School displaying their school bags during distribution of school uniforms and bags to the pupils by the wife of Bauchi State Governor, Hajia Aisha Yuguda in Bununu, Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State recently.
assured the chairman of the its readiness to scrutinise the budget for its speedy passage. Zumi commended the chairman for the “well-thoughtout budget``, which he said would help to address the teething problems of the area, especially uncompleted projects.
Be Security Conscious, Gov Advises CDAs ILORIN Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara has advised community development associations in the state to be security conscious. The governor gave the advice when the leadership of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) visited him at the Government House, Ilorin. Ahmed said community associations should always work together in creating awareness on the need for their members to be more security conscious. The governor said creation of awareness was a major strategy to avert security challenges. Ahmed said no price was much to ensure adequate protection of lives and property as no developmental process would yield results in a state of anarchy. He appealed to all Nigerians, irrespective of their social, political and economic differences, to work together to give peace a chance. “At this period of security challenge that threaten our very foundation as a nation, we must all rise above political and regional divides to support the security agencies in their efforts to rescue the Chibok girls,” he said. Earlier, the National President of IEDPU, Alhaji AbdulHameed Adi, had stressed the need for improved security in Ilorin, the Kwara capital, and other parts of the state. Adi said IEDPU had been liaising with security agencies as well as community and religious leaders on how to maintain peace in the state. He urged government to explore the possibility of retrieving all illegally possessed arms and ammunition from members of the public.
Reject Pressure On Same Sex Laws, Nigerians Urged
ABUJA - Mrs. Sarah Jibril, the Special Adviser to the President on Ethics and Values, has called on Nigerians to reject the call on the government by some western organisations to reconsider the same sex union. Jibril said this in Abuja at the opening of a one-day National Theology Seminar on same sex union, organised by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN). She said that individuals, government and even private institutions must unite against the same sex union, noting that it was barbaric and against the typical African values.
“Sam sex union is an aberration that must not be supported by any right-thinking Nigerian. We must all reject overtures and all forms of imposition of same sex marriage by the west. “The west must respect our culture and values and this we must not jettison for any kind of pecuniary gains; same sex marriage is bad and must not be accommodated,” she said. Jibril commended the National
Assembly and President Jonathan for standing firm against the proponents of the “unholy act” in spite of the pressure from the West and some wealthy individuals. She described the efforts of the Church and some faithful as courageous and worthy of support by all and sundry. Earlier, the Secretary-General of CSN, Rev Fr. Ralph Madu, said the endorsement of the antigay law by President Jonathan
was a manifestation of the administration’s commitment to order in the society. He urged government not to be deterred by the antics of those who are opposed to the moral and spiritual development of the Nigerian society. Madu said that same sex union remained a moral question that could not be obliterated by human laws. He said that the church would
continue to speak out against issues that were against the moral development of society. “As the sole authority on faith and morals, the church is empowered to take a firm stand on the issue of same sex union, especially in view of the numerous misconception and misgivings that have spawned in many places. “I believe that it will be absurd for the church of Christ to remain aloof and reticent in the face of sexual practice that will appear to debase the human process,” he said.
Abuja Confab Kicks Against GovernmentSponsored Pilgrimages By JOSES SEDE
L-R: UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Daouda Toure; Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Muhammed Sidi and Chairman, Presidential intitiative for North-East, Office of the National Security Adviser, Prof Soji Adelaja, at a stakeholders validation meeting on draft Humanitarian Response Plan for Chibok in Abuja on Wednesday.
Democracy Now Firmly Rooted In Nigeria - Mark By JOSES SEDE
ABUJA - President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has affirmed that in spite of the challenges of its birth pains since 1999, democracy is now firmly rooted in Nigeria for good. Senator Mark told a delegation from the Royal College of Defence Studies, United Kingdom on a study tour of Nigeria in Abuja, that democracy has been stabilized and all Nigerians appreciates it as the best form of government. He said: “ I have experienced both military and civilian democracy , I can say without mincing words that democracy is the preferred option and truly the best form of government. We have our challenges , but there is no alternative to democracy . “ All Nigerians and friends of Nigeria must work hard to
protect, defend and make democracy thrive in our land.” He noted that the legislature is the custodian of democracy saying that the Legislature should be given its place of pride in the scheme of things. Senator Mark lamented over the unabating security challenges in the country pointing out that “ We have fought civil and came back together as one united nation but this new war is daunting and unanticipated . With the collective will of all Nigerians, we shall over come”. The government he added is leaving nothing to chance in the fight against terrorism and insurgency. Further Answering questions from the delegation on Nigeria’s relationship with her neighbours, Senator Mark said “ we play big brother role to our neighbors . We don’t bully them, even though we have the might but assist them in times
of needs.” Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Major General Porter Simon, told the President of the Senate, that the delegation came to Nigeria as part of the study tour of Africa saying that Nigeria , Ghana and Cote D voire were chosen for this year ’s programme in Africa. The Royal College of Defence Studies is the senior college of the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom. It exists to provide the capstone to the strategic education of those officers of the Armed Forces and equivalent civil servants who have the potential to reach the highest ranks and who must therefore understand and be comfortable working at strategic level in a crossgovernment and international organization.
ABUJA - The National Conference yesterday, resolved that in order to distance government from involvement in religious matters, henceforth, no government, at any level, should use public funds to sponsor any religious programme, especially pilgrimages for any category of citizens, including government functionaries. It was also agreed that apex religious bodies in the country be allowed to handle all matters relating to pilgrimage through the Pilgrims Commissions duly managed by them under a law to be passed by the National Assembly to regulate their functions and protect pilgrims. It however agreed that government, in performance of its oversight responsibility to Nigerians, shall provide normal consular services for the pilgrims through the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the established Nigerian foreign missions in the relevant destinations. The National Conference also resolved that nobody wishing to convert to any religion of his or her choice should be subjected to any form of victimization whatsoever. In arriving at these decisions, the Conference relied on the recommendations of the Committee on Religion which had Bishop Felix Ajakaiye and Alhaji Nurudeen Lemu as cochairmen. Conference Deputy Chairman, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, said the constitution of the Committee on Religion was the most difficult assignment in terms of membership during the inauguration of all the committees. He said this was due to the sensitive nature of the assignment and the fact that “people can change their political views, but they may not change their religious views,” adding that the committee had handled the assignment with diligence and compassion. The applause accorded the committee did not however take away opportunity for criticisms by some delegates who said members of the committee had avoided tackling some critical issues and answering questions Nigerians would expect them to answer. Some delegates criticized the
Chairman, National Population Commission (NPC), Chief Eze Duruiheoma (left), addressing a news conference on the National imperative of conducting the 2016 population census in Abuja on Wednesday. With him are: Director General, Ismaila Ghaji and Chairperson, Public Affairs Committee, Yeye Seyi Olusanya.
committee for its silence on the fate of mission schools which had in the past served as moral training grounds for young people who grew up with such morals for the betterment of the society. Senator Femi Okurunmu accused the committee of shying away from the crucial issue of whether Nigeria is a secular or religious state; explaining that this became necessary because Section 10 of the constitution has been given different interpretations by different people with regard to the secularity of Nigeria. He suggested that Section 10 be amended to make it quite explicit that Nigeria is a secular state so that the misinterpretation can be put to rest. Professor Ambrose Okoli also faulted the committee on the issue of where worship centres should be sited; he said building of worship centres requires regulation to avoid noise pollution because “a man in search of salvation should do it quietly between him and God.” The committee stated that central to the issue of religious harmony in Nigeria was the elimination of religious discriminations and prejudices and went ahead to recommend that Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution should be reaffirmed and upheld in practice. Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution which deals with prohibition of state religion states that, “The Government of the Federation or of a state shall not adopt any religion as state religion.” However, while this recommendation was applauded, the Conference was yet to decide on the committee’s suggestion for the establishment of a Religious Equity Commission (REC) with the statutory mandate of advocacy, enforcement of constitutional religious rights such as freedom of religion, freedom to acquire land for religious purposes, among others. Delegates said during clauseby-clause consideration of the report that the National Human Rights Commission should be empowered to handle such issues instead of setting up another commission at a time the issue of devolution of power was being seriously contemplated while another group was against it. The committee had envisaged the REC to serve as a platform that would bring individuals of the major religions in Nigeria to interact and crystalise ideas that would foster unity and tolerance; as well as monitor and investigate and expose cases of religious discrimination and violation. The body was also meant to monitor cases of religious extremism - both in ideology and practice - and formulate counter narratives that are balanced and tolerant to neutralise such extremism. It would have equally served as a watch dog and enforcer of religious rights of all persons, thereby creating confidence and trust in every Nigerian no matter their religious affiliations while also monitoring and investigating cases of hate
speeches and utterances meant to incite religious tension and prosecute persons responsible. The committee noted that the restoration of ethics, culture, morals and core values that promote a sense of belonging among individuals and constituent groups within a nation-state was essential to the process of nation building. It drew attention to the complexity and nuances in nation-building, and concluded that religions, being repository of teachings about justice, ethics, morality and humanness could be used as veritable instruments of binding people of different cultures together within a state. The committee disclosed further, “Despite that its peoples are intensely religious, Nigeria is losing the moral compass for nation-building. Many factors contribute to this. There is however evidence from anthropological data that most Nigerian cultures showed greater appreciation of the core values of honesty, justice, ethics, and morality. “The committee is of the view that Nigerians should return to those shared core values of their forebears and our faith traditions which are anchored on the sacred values of honesty, justice and the love of one another in order to build a truly united nation-state.” The Conference, in its deliberation and decision, mandated the National Orientation Agency to put in place a strong advocacy in collaboration with religious institutions to promote core values in the Nigerian society. In a bid to reinvent the African culture of courtesy, politeness, honesty, integrity, communal interdependence and peaceful co-existence which it said were rapidly being eroded in the Nigerian society, the committee suggested that children must be taught their mother tongue or language of their immediate community during the first three years of basic education. In addition, it said learning of Nigerian history should be included in primary and secondary school curricula; while social studies curriculum should be reviewed to reflect Nigeria’s cultural values of respect for elders, hospitality, and communal interdependence, modesty in morals and in dressing. The Conference, in another resolution, said henceforth, hate speeches and sermons meant to create incitement among Nigerians should be criminalise; and those involved prosecuted. Delegates also resolved that profit-making businesses carried out by religious bodies like churches and mosques should pay taxes as a way of contributing to the growth of the economy. Based on the recommendation of the committee, Conference resolved that payment of welfare allowances be made by government to men and women particularly the most vulnerable members of the society. It was also agreed and resolved that government should, as a matter of national emergency initiate policies that would accelerate wealth creation for the teeming populace, particularly through creation of jobs.
Business + Economy
FG To Revive Ajaokuta Steel Coy ABUJA - Vice-President Namadi Sambo said that the Federal Government would revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited soon to promote the development of the nation’s automotive sector. Sambo, who stated this at the foundation laying of Kogi House in Abuja, explained that the revival of the company would offer viable socio-economic opportunities to Nigerians. He said that President Goodluck Jonathan had already directed him to “Very soon, I want to assure you that the promise Mr. President made sometime in Kogi State that the Ajaokuta Steel Industry will be brought back to life.
“I want to categorically state that all the encumbrances that have been stopping the progress of this project have been removed by Mr. President. “He has directed me as Chairman of the NCP (National Council on Privatisation), to expedite action and ensure that Ajaokuta steel industry is back to life,” he stated. Sambo commended the Kogi State Government for keying into President Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda in education, agriculture, healthcare and several other developmental efforts in the State. He also lauded the Idris Wada’s administration for embarking on the
construction of the Kogi House meant to boost the internal revenue base of the state. “The land was allocated to the Kogi State Government for over 20 years running but your administration took the bull by the horn to develop it in order to harness and generate revenue and improve the economy of your state. “It is most interesting to note your economic and financial innovation in funding the development of this 11-storey edifice via a Public Private Partnership model,” he said. The vice-president reassured that the Federal Government would continue to partner with the state
government in providing social amenities to the inhabitants of the state. According to him, in addition to the President’s commissioning of the 450MW Geregu Power Plant, Federal Government will soon commission the standard gauge railway from Lokoja to Warri Port and will complete the Banda Inland
Water Port by December. “We are supporting the private sector in development of 1,000MW coal power plant as well as development of all the solid minerals and hydro-carbons. “We shall continue to partner with you in the development of Kogi State,” he added Sambo urged other states
government to emulate the strategy of Kogi State in achieving infrastructure development for the benefit of citizens. In his remarks, Governor Wada of Kogi, said the foundation laying of the Kogi House had underscored the new branding of the State as the “Confluence of Opportunities”.
Financial Literacy Curriculum
CBN To Partner Ministry
ABUJA - The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said it would partner the Federal Ministry of Education to develop a financial literacy curriculum. Hajiya Umma Dutse, Director, Consumer Protection Department in the bank, said this at a news conference in Abuja. Dutse said that the bank would also collaborate with other relevant stakeholders to develop the curriculum that would be adopted at all levels of the educational system. “The curriculum, which is expected to be developed before the end of this year, will articulate appropriate financial topics that will be taught in schools. “This will improve the financial literacy levels of the students, ‘’ she said. Dutse said the bank was committed to enhancing the financial literacy of Nigerian youths, to achieve a robust financial inclusion in the country. She added that enhancing the financial literacy was also an effort in ultimately attaining the objectivity of the Financial System Strategy by 2020. She said that the bank would further develop the Financial Literacy Framework that would provide a roadmap for promoting financial literacy, with emphasis on specific target groups. “It is crucial to state that the major target groups in the framework are the youth owing to their predominance in the financial literacy chain,” she said. Dutse said the overarching philosophy behind the framework was the use of a structured approach to educate the youth. She said the strategy included publication of financial educational resources such as
101 ways to save money and how to lodge a complaint. Dutse said another strategy of addressing the literacy was to develop school reach out programme, which aimed at promoting interaction among school children. She identified others as
business plan development competition among public schools, financial literacy fair and exhibition. The director noted that the business plans were being organised by the bank in conjunction with other stakeholders.
New members of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria at their induction in Lagos State recently.
Pension Assets Hit N4trn
Confusion as traffic officers, Police, NSCDC and FRSC struggle to arrest a commercial motorcyclist at popular Aroma junction in Awka recently.
ABUJA - The National Pension Commission (PENCOM), said pension assets were now in excess of N4trillion as against estimated liabilities of over N2trillion before reform. Mrs Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, Acting Director General, PENCOM, disclosed this at a World News Conference in Abuja. The news conference is to herald the “African World Pension Summit’’ to be held in Nigeria in July. Anohu-Amazu said more than 98,000 workers had retired so far and were receiving retirement benefits as and when due without any problems. “In the past, they joined long queues, in fact some even died in the process, in terms of safety, the pension fund assets are ring-fenced.
NASRDA To Build Made In Nigeria Satellite ABUJA - The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) is to develop and build a Nigerian satellite by 2018, its Director-General, Prof. Seidu Mohammed, has said. Mohammed announced this in an interview with newsmen in Abuja. He said that the agency was working on the legal framework of the Nigerian space programme with a view to enhance the nation’s Space Science and
Technology Administration. He said that the legal framework would set the foundation for the erection of systematic space science and technology in Nigeria. “The policy document for the actualisation of the Nigerian space programme indicates that 2011 is meant for Nigeriasat II and X, while in 2015, the training of astronauts will commence. “The agency is expected to achieve the development and
building of made-in Nigeria satellite in 2018, while 2025 is for the development of rocketry/ propulsion system,” he said. Mohammed said that the spinoff of allied industrieselectronics, and software among others would take place by 2026, while 2028 was for large-scale commercialisation of space technology with know-how. He said that NASRDA would accomplish the launch of a Nigerian satellite from a
Nigerian launch pad by 2030. He said that the vision statement of the agency was to make Nigeria build indigenous competence in the development, design and building of appropriate hard and software in space technology. He said that the agency was committed to Nigeria’s socioeconomic development as well as enhancing the quality of life of the people.
According to her, the pension journey has been very challenging, but when one looks at the success recorded, it is inspiring. “Concerned by the magnitude of issues and lack of transparency in pensions in Nigeria, the then President Olusegun Obasanjo constituted a Pension Reform Committee. “It was the committee’s work that culminated into the PRA 2004. At the time, there were lots of apprehensions on the part of stakeholders. “Their concerns were understandable, considering outcomes of other reforms by government in the past. “Ten years now, I am glad that having seen PenCom’s steadfastness in protecting the interest of retirees, labour is one of our greatest supporters”, she said. Mr. Eric Egginu, Chairman, World Pension Summit, said it was formed five years ago and the focus of this year’s summit was on Africa. Egginu said about 55 African countries would be in attendance, adding that the summit would be the first to be held in Africa. He said that the summit would share ideas and knowledge to improve the pension system on the continent. He said the summit would change the lives of the people and bring about unity, peace and development in Africa and the world in general.
NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY (EQUITIES) AS AT WEDNESDAY (28/05/14) Stocks
Open
Close
Change
Deals
Units
Value
NB
173.03
174
0.97
0
12,660,712
2,197,162,379.00
7UP
85.8
85.8
0
0
32,499
2,856,504.90
NEIMETH
0.98
1.02
0.04
0
1,692,050
1,722,631.00
ABCTRANS
0.83
0.81
-0.02
0
530,994
434,437.19
NEM
0.81
0.83
0.02
0
1,089,984
890,285.72
1070
1070
0
0
57,087
60,308,198.35
ACADEMY
1.71
1.71
0
0
1,000
1,630.00
NESTLE
ACCESS
9.8
9.7
-0.1
0
7,247,697
70,197,554.81
NEWGOLD
2020
1993
-27
0
13
25,909.00
0.5
0.5
0
0
100
50 53,500.00
AFRIPRUD
3.24
3.35
0.11
0
1,991,405
6,583,617.38
NIGERINS
AGLEVENT
1.38
1.35
-0.03
0
478,009
637,062.57
NPFMCRFBK
1.12
1.12
0
0
50,000
AIICO
0.82
0.85
0.03
0
3,896,771
3,288,130.18
NSE30
1827.86
1841.98
14.12
0
481,439,185
AIRSERVICE
2.05
2
-0.05
0
583,400
1,169,625.00
11,913,000,692.00
ASHAKACEM
20.4
21.4
1
0
1,423,479
30,157,862.13
NSE50
1974.82
1990.17
15.35
0
534,853,611
ASOSAVINGS
0.5
0.5
0
0
2,500
1,250.00
12,105,504,120.00
BERGER
10
10
0
0
118,348
1,226,585.48
NSEASEM
950.94
950.94
0
0
1,400
40061.24
40286.76
225.52
0
577,249,644
415.93
424.53
8.6
0
332,536,398
1,792.00
BETAGLAS
16.22
16.22
0
0
46,000
736,010.00
NSEASI
CADBURY
75.31
75.31
0
0
274,785
21,090,756.58
12,264,505,591.00
CAP
37.51
37.51
0
0
110,577
4,127,290.38
NSEBNK
CAVERTON
5.98
5.69
-0.29
0
451,656
2,588,269.83
NSECNSMRGDS
1015.2
1018.33
3.13
0
19,306,413
2,401,031,205.00
CCNN
9.7
10
0.3
0
862,528
8,565,055.23
NSEINDUSTR
2548.17
2550.29
2.12
0
3,281,657
127,529,675.60
CHAMS
0.5
0.5
0
0
6,000
3,000.00
NSEINS
142.37
142.04
-0.33
0
23,925,429
19,405,196.20
7,533,677,171.00
CILEASING
0.5
0.5
0
0
29,803
14,901.50
NSELOTUSISLM
2725.5
2725.29
-0.21
0
6,365,843
283,470,295.40
CONOIL
46.74
46.74
0
0
110,520
5,329,692.14
NSEOILGAS
368
367.98
-0.02
0
11,508,682
228,730,545.20
CONTINSURE
1.09
1.04
-0.05
0
245,478
255,377.12
OANDO
17.3
18
0.7
0
10,242,367
184,602,467.80
CORNERST
0.5
0.5
0
0
57,000
28,500.00
OASISINS
0.54
0.54
0
0
31,800
16,772.00
COSTAIN
1.21
1.23
0.02
0
139,240
171,743.10
OKOMUOIL
32.3
32.3
0
0
101,490
3,371,661.06
COURTVILLE
0.57
0.58
0.01
0
494,322
283,846.86
PAINTCOM
1.45
1.45
0
0
100
150
CUSTODYINS
3.21
3.2
-0.01
0
24,728,714
79,227,626.85
PHARMDEKO
1.57
1.57
0
0
3,150
4,755.00
CUTIX
1.9
1.9
0
0
42,000
82,860.00
PORTPAINT
5
5
0
0
10,000
47,500.00
CWG
5.48
5.48
0
0
2,250
11,722.50
PRESCO
36
36
0
0
36,020
1,321,098.40
DANGCEM
227.9
227.01
-0.89
0
65,260
14,832,782.80
PRESTIGE
0.55
0.53
-0.02
0
1,000,011
530,019.83
DANGFLOUR
8
8
0
0
232,190
1,812,504.76
PZ
34.83
34.83
0
0
110,717
3,890,209.27
4.65
4.65
0
0
10,700
48,756.00
DANGSUGAR
9.9
9.8
-0.1
0
1,099,317
10,764,965.30
REDSTAREX
DIAMONDBNK
6.48
6.5
0.02
0
1,802,645
11,698,442.92
REGALINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
51,665
25,832.50
84,949.14
ROYALEX
0.53
0.53
0
0
269,000
142,570.00
DNMEYER
1.06
1.06
0
0
77,810
DUNLOP
0.5
0.5
0
0
30,000
15,000.00
RTBRISCOE
1.09
1.04
-0.05
0
210,100
218,804.00
ETERNA
3.33
3.35
0.02
0
957,339
3,237,662.69
SEPLAT
634
635
1
0
107,435
68,175,302.00
ETI
15.7
16
0.3
0
9,701,480
154,741,883.80
SKYEBANK
3.49
3.54
0.05
0
4,413,989
15,228,368.60
EVANSMED
2.57
2.57
0
0
38,813
95,166.85
SOVRENINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
750
375
FBNH
14.15
14.5
0.35
0
102,294,769
1,482,432,718.00
STACO
0.5
0.5
0
0
12,400
6,200.00
FCMB
3.99
4.18
0.19
0
4,108,946
16,720,738.13
STANBIC
22.8
22.8
0
0
168,687
3,855,473.58
0.5
0.5
0
0
500
250
FIDELITYBK
2.05
2.06
0.01
0
1,743,401
3,597,110.56
STDINSURE
FIDSON
2.8
2.9
0.1
0
2,834,355
7,863,158.52
STERLNBANK
2.28
2.3
0.02
0
3,464,554
7,904,095.13
FLOURMILL
73
73
0
0
358,287
26,495,294.12
TOTAL
159.99
162
2.01
0
24,112
3,893,323.24
FO
194
194
0
0
147,304
28,261,680.55
TOURIST
3.88
3.88
0
0
100
369
GLAXOSMITH
68.1
68.15
0.05
0
431,600
29,346,894.29
TRANSCORP
3.87
3.74
-0.13
0
13,931,056
51,924,207.92
2.31
2.2
-0.11
0
60,000
132,000.00
GOLDBREW
0.68
0.68
0
0
200
142
TRANSEXPR
GUARANTY
27.8
28.49
0.69
0
38,318,623
1,074,414,982.00
UAC-PROP
17.75
17.75
0
0
223,049
3,946,225.02
63
65
2
0
1,832,491
117,968,140.40
GUINNESS
179
179
0
0
137,468
24,570,449.94
UACN
HMARKINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
200
100
UBA
7.22
7.35
0.13
0
12,588,018
91,732,832.43
HONYFLOUR
3.8
3.82
0.02
0
2,025,587
7,800,177.08
UBCAP
2.45
2.44
-0.01
0
19,125,844
47,732,405.71
IKEJAHOTEL
0.89
0.9
0.01
0
2,814,550
2,513,781.26
UBN
10.4
10.6
0.2
0
510,538
5,357,171.35
INTBREW
26.94
25.61
-1.33
0
604,341
15,641,304.62
UNILEVER
48.19
48.19
0
0
224,032
10,787,218.97
INTENEGINS
0.5
0.5
0
0
30,000
15,000.00
UNITYBNK
0.5
0.5
0
0
230,670
115,335.00
INTERLINK
4.9
4.9
0
0
20
93.2
UPDCREIT
10.47
10.47
0
0
2,000
19,900.00
4.04
4.04
0
0
56,336
235,890.56
IPWA
0.52
0.52
0
0
5,000
2,700.00
UPL
JAPAULOIL
0.5
0.5
0
0
803,573
401,786.50
UTC
0.53
0.53
0
0
7,768
4,141.04
JBERGER
75.49
75.49
0
0
100,830
7,577,938.45
VETGRIF30
18.44
18.58
0.14
0
210
3,885.80 505,996.90
JOSBREW
3.08
3.08
0
0
5,797
16,985.21
VITAFOAM
4.12
4.01
-0.11
0
124,043
LEARNAFRCA
1.67
1.75
0.08
0
149,813
256,726.34
WAPCO
112.5
112.5
0
0
603,365
67,753,579.61
0.79
0.78
-0.01
0
17,400,837
13,879,105.35
LINKASSURE
0.5
0.5
0
0
15,524
7,762.00
WAPIC
LIVESTOCK
3.15
3.16
0.01
0
1,104,632
3,485,298.06
WEMABANK
0.98
0.97
-0.01
0
574,746
557,199.97
525,654.00
ZENITHBANK
23.5
24.03
0.53
0
255,635,261
6,106,151,624.00
MANSARD
2.33
2.33
0
0
219,100
MAYBAKER
1.72
1.72
0
0
127,250
225,056.90
MBENEFIT
0.5
0.5
0
0
14,698
7,349.00
MOBIL
129
127.9
-1.1
0
26,325
3,370,741.00
MRS
51.49
51.49
0
0
715
34,977.80
MTI
0.5
0.5
0
0
200
100
MULTIVERSE
0.5
0.5
0
0
1,000
500
NAHCO
4.97
5
0.03
0
598,725
2,994,504.81
NASCON
12.86
12.82
-0.04
0
1,365,348
17,345,245.05
TOP 10 GAINERS Stock
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NSEASI 225.52 NSE50 NSE30 NSEBNK NSECNSMRGDS NSEINDUSTR TOTAL UACN ASHAKACEM SEPLAT
40286.76 1990.17 1841.98 424.53 1018.33 2550.29 162 65 21.4 635
TOP 10 10 GAINERS LOSERS TOP Gain
15.35 14.12 8.6 3.13 2.12 2.01 2 1 1
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NEWGOLD INTBREW MOBIL DANGCEM NSEINS CAVERTON NSELOTUSISLM TRANSCORP TRANSEXPR VITAFOAM
1993 25.61 127.9 227.01 142.04 5.69 2725.29 3.74 2.2 4.01
Loss -27 -1.33 -1.1 -0.89 -0.33 -0.29 -0.21 -0.13 -0.11 -0.11
THE violation of women’s rights both at the national and domestic strata have become burning and vexatious issues. What we find happening in this country as regards the denial to women of certain privileges and rights, much more pervades other nations of the world to some varying degree and extent. In some countries women are never heard but they are only seen and are not offered opportunities to make their contributions to national growth and development. THE refrain has always been that we are in a male dominated society and as such the dominance is carried over to other sectors of life, where it becomes very obvious that the male-folks are always in the position to wield power and control. However, the tendency to keep women at the background in most societies is derived from the tradition and custom of old in predominantly medieval communities where women are consigned to basic task of up-keeping of the home and the rearing and bearing of children. AGAIN, there is the perceived social and environmental factors that women are not endowed with equal natural abilities seen against the superiority and innate physical attributes of man, which makes him the stronger sex while the women are regarded as the weaker sex. WHILE it is still in contention that women are spiritually more gifted than the men, there are however, certain, religious practices in traditional religion, Christianity and Islam and many other faith-exercising beliefs where women are barred from priestly role for reasons peculiar to those faith. OVER the years however, women have risen to these challenges to combat and eliminate these practices and to elevate womanhood to the pedestal of dignity and to take their pride of place in society. THESE situations have also given rise to such concepts as women liberation and women empowerment to such extent it appears that there has been an attempt to rewrite the English language to make it reflect the sense of womanhood were such words as “Chairman”
THE NIGERIAN
Advancing Political Rights Of Women and “mankind” are facing the challenges of some etymologists and lexical experts to make them lose their male connotations. WHILE the war to institute the female privilege and the sense of womanhood in the language sector is a continuing one, there are still other areas of human endeavour where our womenfolk are carrying on the battle. It is a matter of fact, that women more often than not now concern themselves with issues such as the problem of development, female health reproductive issues, prostitution, trafficking in women, wife-battering and the political participation of women in the affairs of state. FOR instance, a study by the population reference bureau, “conveying concerns: women write on Reproductive Health,” indicate that the global community is beginning to recognize a crucial, yet long overlooked piece of development puzzle. The study states that the ideas and participation of women are essential for planning appropriate, comprehensive and effective development programs. A DEVELOPMENT effort of particular significance to women, it says is the design of reproductive health policies and programmes to meet the needs of all women, at different stages in their reproductive lives, from different socio economic setting, of different religious and cultural backgrounds. IT also noted that efforts in the past to provide women. reproductive health services seemed to have been implanted without fully understanding the needs and sensitivities of the women they were to serve, following ‘which many women and women’s group became disillusioned with the
development process. HOWEVER, “the increasing problem that women face in our world is that of discrimination which is occasioned by traditional practices in all ramifications, even discrimination in office places and in appointments. In effect, no matter how highly placed a woman might be in respect of achievements and in office; her status is still low because of male chauvinism and its dominating characteristics not to regard a woman’s profile as worth anything not even by men who may have achieved less. WOMEN’s standing has risen dramatically in recent times due mainly to their efforts and that of the international community and many nongovernmental organizations who insist on the rights and privileges which not only they should take from society but what the constitutions and codes of human freedom had also conferred on them. IN this regard a number of international decisions which have helped to legitimize the rights and privileges of women include the 1952 convention on the political rights of women, the 1979 convention on the political rights of women, the 1979 convention on the elimination of Discrimination ‘Against Women and the 1995 Beijing Conference, China, sponsored by the Untied Nations. It was the fourth world conference on women with 189 governments and 2,600 non-governmental groups in attendance. RESOLUTIONS at the conference agreed to a set of strategic objectives and action including efforts to advance the role of women in politics and environment stewardship. BESIDES, the Commonwealth has also been committed to the problem of gender inequality and presented plan of action at the Beijing Conference as well as an update to it in 1997. AT this point, we the women groups yearning for improvements in women conditions nationally and globally to pursue the course relentlessly and not give up. Further, we implore the Nigerian government and other nations globally to address the socio-cultural factors that hinder women from the realization of their full potentials.
Peacefulness and spreading peace in the world is another virtue taught by Allah’s messenger for which the world including Nigeria is seriously craving. Peacefulness, be it within an individual’s mind and soul or within society in general, has become a very scarce virtue in our contemporary world. The current times are full of all sorts of unrest, ranging from insecurity, theft, robbery with violence, domestic violence, oppression, injustice and unnecessary national and international wars which are all due to uncontrolled materialistic greed and desires to own more and more of the pomp and glitter of this world. In spite of the high standard of living that many people have today. Though they live an easy life full of all kinds of material comfort, most people have neglected the true source of peace and looked for it elsewhere. They looked for inner peace in music, sports, movies, wealth, power and positions of influence, promiscuity, alcohol, drugs and other things, all in vain. The true source of inner peace and peacefulness is in understanding the purpose of our creation, knowing and believing in our sole creator, cherisher and sustainer and calling on Him constantly. In Nigeria, everyone is seriously praying for peace. Some have embarked on fasting so that peace can reign. The followers of all the major religions – Christianity, Islam and Africa Traditional Religion have all organized prayers so that peace can reign in the country. Unfortunately, peace is not an essential commodity that can be purchased in the market. No one can equally pick peace from the ground. A society can only achieve peace based on the fear of ALLAH. Obedience to the A nation can survive if they refuse to believe in the existence of ALLAH and worship Him. He will continue to provide for all irrespective of whether they believe in His existence and worship Him or not. This is why some unbelievers are richer than some believer. Why is this so, because ALLAH is the most compassionate; the most merciful. No society can survive without upholding the virtue of justice, equity and fair-play. No nation can survive without upholding the moral virtue of sincerity, honesty, truthfulness and trustworthiness. No nation can survive if the people continue to dwell in corrupt practices and evil tendencies. After 100 years of amalgamation and almost 54 years of independence, Nigeria is becoming a classic example of an alien nation. There is no disputing this facts. Everywhere you turn, you are confronted by the social pathologies arising from alienation. A deviant post-colonial culture of unprecedented impurity, anti-social behaviour ranging from armed robbery, kidnapping, ritual killing for money, human trafficking, official extortion, state burglary of the Exchequer and the international reputation for large scale corruption, all compounded by elite political delinquency. Never in this country have we had so much high level corruption, the quantum of oil theft, the total blackout in the nation, the collapse of the education sector and massive youth unemployment, loss of faith with the system and loss of moral value. These and other issues raised must be addressed in order for peace to reign in the land. The real problem of Nigeria is neither the destructive anti-economic activities of the South-South militants, nor that of the greedily callous South-East kidnappers nor the ritualists and armed robbers operating freely in the South-West, nor even that of the heartless Kidnappers and bloodletting vandalism of Boko Haram in the North-East and North-West. It is rather the unwillingness of the so called government at all levels to raise up to the occasion and do what is right at the right time. The root causes of the multi-dimensional
Voice Of
Islam
Every Friday With Mallam Abdulfattah Enabulele Chief Imam of Benin
Can Prayer Alone Guarantee Peace?
commandments He has sent down through His Holy Prophets. Peace will come when everyone will have a change of heart and turn sincerely to ALLAH for forgiveness. What ALLAH wants in every human is the purity of heart and sincerity of propose. Many of us are very religions but are not God-fearing people. Therefore, praying for peace without the fear of ALLAH cannot yield any positive result. Praying for peace with insincerity in the heart will not achieve anything positive.
Praying for peace without displaying the characteristics of honesty will equally not yield the necessary result. Praying for peace when the elements of truthfulness are missing in the society is purely a complete waste of time and energy. Telling the people to offer prayers for peace to reign in the society, when the moral virtues of justice, equity and fair-play is not upheld and practicalized, such prayer will end in total fiasco. (complete and ridiculous failure) Praying for peace to reign in a society, where the issues of oppression, suppression and double standard is the order of the day,
“O ALLAH! You are the true source of peace and mercy. Grant us inner peace in our hearts, minds, and souls, and make us peaceful people who love peace and spread peace. Ameen”
Let The Truth Be Told problems staring Nigeria in the face today are traceable mostly to the corridors of our government. Of all the vices that currently constitute insuperable problems for Nigeria, particularly corruption and injustice, none originated from a source other than that of the government. The various high profile corruption cases since last five years have confirmed this assertion. We all blame time for our misdemeanour, whereas, the misdemeanour blamed on time is actually in us; we smear time with all types of iniquities and yet expect time to cleans us of any blame; were time endowed with mouth to comment on us; it would have blamed us for generating all crimes; No dog eats fellow dog, it is only men that eat fellow men. Some of us are very quick at blaming Lord Lugard for Nigeria’s numerous problems. They argue that the 1914 amalgamation of Southern and Northern protectorate was totally a big mistake. If their assertion is correct or to be taken seriously, is 100 years of that amalgamation and 54 years of independence not long enough for the ruling
class and the elites, make the sacrifice so that Nigeria project can be realizable, where all Nigerians can live peacefully irrespective of their tribal and religious inclination. 1914 amalgamation should not be blamed for Nigeria’s problems. We are our own problems. We know the sources of what we call problems and we incubate them. We know how to proffer solution to those problems but like Lotus eaters, we are so much drunk with illegality that it has become so difficult if not impossible for us to part with it. Allah warns us in Qur’an (13:11) that: “Verily Allah will not change the good condition of a people as long as they do not change heir state of goodness themselves by committing sins and by being ungrateful and disobedient to Allah, but when Allah wills a people’s punishment there can be no turning back of it, and they will find besides Him no protector.” Whoever calls for equity must come with clean hands. Let everyone of us be very careful because time is running out for Nigeria.
“The real problem of Nigeria is neither the destructive anti-economic activities of the South-South militants, nor that of the greedily callous South-East kidnappers nor the ritualists and armed robbers operating freely in the South-West, nor even that of the heartless Kidnappers and bloodletting vandalism of Boko Haram in the North-East and North-West.It is rather the unwillingness of the so called government at all levels to raise up to the occasion and do what is right at the right time”
such prayers or supplication will not be answered by ALLAH. Requesting the people to pray for peace in the society when the issues of corruption and greediness is on the increase, such prayer will not only be rejected by ALLAH, efforts put into it will end in vain. Requesting the people to pray for peace when there is no respect for the sacredness of human soul and people are being killed in an alarming rate is unacceptable to ALLAH. People are told to offer prayers for peace in the country. How can such prayers be answered by ALLAH when some of those in authority don’t care about the welfare of the citizenry. When about 70% of the population are living below poverty level, when unemployment rate is on the increase, when government agencies collect money for services they never rendered to the people. Authority stealing. How can a society achieve peace when there exist racism and ethnocentrism, tribalism, sentimentalization of issues, parochial tendencies and discrimination of various grade. These are the root cause of many divisions, injustices and troubles in our society, which has led to peace eluding us. The first thing people must do is to seek for forgiveness from ALLAH and offer sincere repentance to Him. May ALLAH enable us to rise above such petty differences in terms of race, colour, creed, socio-economic status and tribe and unite us as one people. ALLAH ‘s words will never be in want of relevance. They are regularly accompanied by relevance. ALLAH also confirmed in the Glorious Qur’an that human hearts will find inner peace and tranquility in believing in Him, always remembering Him with words of glorification, supplicating to Him, being grateful to Him and seeking for His mercy, forgiveness and bounties. O ALLAH! You are the true source of peace and mercy. Grant us inner peace in our hearts, minds, and souls, and make us peaceful people who love peace and spread peace. Ameen.
The Holy Prophet And Peace Making Abdullah ibn Salam said: When the messenger of Allah arrived in Madinah the people came out to meet him. When I gazed upon the face of the messenger of Allah, I knew that his face was not the face of a liar. The first thing that he said was: -O people! Spread the salam (peace and the greeting of peace), -feed others who are hungry, -perform prayers while the people are sleeping and you will enter paradise with ease. It has often been falsely claimed by some non-Muslims that Islam is a religion of war and violence; however that is not true. We can clearly see in the above hadith that the first thing that came out off the lips of Allah’s messenger when he arrived in Madinah to be its leader was that people should be peaceful and spread the message among themselves. He also advised them to feed the needy and offer the prayers in the night so that they might hope for A l l a h ’s m e rc y a n d e n t e r i n t o paradise with ease. It is obvious that meeting people with greetings full of peace, love, affection, sympathy and feelings of well-wishing promotes peace in a society. Couple this with sincere hearts devoted to the obedience and worship of Allah and a people will earn the pleasure of Allah and an unimpeded smooth entry into paradise.
CLASSIFIED:CHANGE OF NAME
AGHO – I, formerly called Miss Agho Ehisiemen Success now wish to be called Mrs. Omorogbe Ehisiemen Success. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
IWUEKE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Iwueke Jennifer now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Ezomo E m m a n u e l l a Egberamwen. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. MESHACH – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Sarah Ndenum Meshach now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Sarah Ndenum Ahmadu. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. AUDU – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Audu Omesi Scholarstica now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Erharuyi Omesi Scholarstica. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. OLADIPO – I, formerly known and addressed as Oladipo Olugbenga now wish to be known and addressed as Osaro Igbinovia Omokaro. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. NWODO – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwodo Chinyere Gladys now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Orikpete Chinyere Gladys. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. UWAYEMWEN – I, formerly known and addressed as Uwayemwen Igbinovia Christiana now wish to be known and addressed as Uwa Igbinovia Omokaro. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. UWADIALE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Judith Uwadiale now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Judith Aragbonfoh. All former documents remain valid. Local Government Service Commission, All concerned authorities and the general public take note. IDUH – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Iduh Joy Odion now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Joy Odion Ayodele. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
OJIEBUN – I, formerly known and addressed as Dr (Miss) Ojiebun Eseohe Rachael now wish to be known and addressed as Dr. (Mrs.) Onwuli Eseohe Rachael. All former documents remain valid. Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) concerned authorities and the general public take note. IDISI – I, formerly called Miss Blessing Kess Idisi is now known and called Dr. (Mrs.) Blessing Kess Ehioghiren. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Optometry Association, concerned authorities and the general public take note. IYARE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Iyare Judith Oghaduna now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Igbinosa Judith Oghaduna. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. EHIGIAMUSOE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Esohe Grace Ehigiamusoe now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Esohe Grace Awoyungbo. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. EHIAGWINA – I, formerly known as Miss Esther Ehiagwina now wish to be known as Mrs. Esther Aichienede. All former documents remain valid. ISTH, concerned authorities and the general public take note. ISERIEHEN – I, formerly known as Iseriehen .C. Itohan now wish to be known as Agbons Cynthia Itohan. All former documents remain valid. College of Education, Ekiadolor, concerned authorities and the general public take note.
OSAYANDE – I, formerly known as Miss Gladys Osariemen Osayande now wish to be known as Mrs. Gladys Osariemen Ugiagbe. All former documents remain valid. West African Examination Council, concerned authorities and the general public take note. IDOKO – I, formerly known as Miss Beatrice Omije Idoko now wish to be known as Mrs. Beatrice Omije Erhaga. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. ERHAHON – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Amenze Erhahon now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Amenze Ekomhen. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
OJO – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Elizabeth Odion Ojo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Elizabeth Odion Ekuaze. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. OSSAI – I, formerly Miss Helen Ossai now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. Helen Esaba Oboh. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
SIMON – I, formerly Miss Blessing Achenyo Simon now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. Blessing Achenyo Aruwa. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. ASOA – I, formerly Idowu Asoa now wish to be known, called and addressed as Arhia Linda Asoa. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. IGBINOVIA – I, formerly Miss Hope Orobosa Igbinovia now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Hope Orobosa FranklinOhikhena. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, Rapid Response Agency, Board of Internal Revenue, First Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank, UBA and the general public take note. IGIEBOR – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Precious Igiebor now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Azemhe Precious. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the general public take note. IMAGBE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Josephine Odarhoagbonrie Imagbe now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Josephine Osavbie Omorefe. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. ODIGIE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Odigie Blessing Owamagbe now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ojior Blessing Owamagbe. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. SUNDAY - I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Sunday Grace now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Goodnews Michael-Inyang Grace. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, Nigeria Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) and the general public take note.
ISIMHENMHEN – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Patience Akhare Isimhenmhen now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ukhuakhua Daniel Akhare Patience. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the general public take note.
NNAMANI – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nnamani Bridget Nkechi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ogbodo Bridget Nkechi. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. OZARA – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Osabah .E. Ozara now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ukpong .E. Osabah. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the general public take note. AJISEFINNI – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajisefinni .M. Esther now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nwojini .M. Esther. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the general public take note. OJO – I, formerly called Miss Bukky Tope Ojo now wish to be called Mrs. Bukky Tope Omokhowa-Balogun. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. ERIOSEYI – I, formerly known and addressed as Erioseyi Pedro now wish to be known and addressed as Pedro Strasser. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. JATTO – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Racheal Omoyemhe Jatto now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Omoyemhe Owie Onaghinor. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. OSAGIE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Osagie Lawrentta now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Lawrentta Akhuemokhan. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. OSARENKHOE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nekpen Osarenkhoe now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Omosigho Nekpen Juliet. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
EHI-EROMOSELE - I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ehi-Eromosele Uwati now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Omoike Sophia Uwati. All former documents remain valid. LAPO Microfinance Bank, concerned authorities and the general public take note.
ETU – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Etu Maria Chikodi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeoye Maria Daniel. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
IGBINOKHUO – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Rose Onaiwu Igbinokhuo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Rose Onaiwu Osemwegie. All former documents remain valid. Arik Airline Ltd, concerned authorities and the general public take note.
ODIGIE – I, formerly Miss Ivie Odigie now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ivie Amedu. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
AKPAN – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Angela Edem Akpan now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Angela Edem Ogedengbe. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. EGHAREVBA – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Stellamarris Egharevba now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aivinhenyo Stellamarris. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and the general public take note.
EROMOSELE – I, formerly Miss Queen Eromosele now Mrs. Queen Bassy Larry. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. EHIOGHAE – I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ehioghae Queensly Eniye now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Egbele Queensly Eniye. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note
CHANGE OF NAME OSHOGWE – We formerly known and addressed as Andrew Mologhomeh Oshogwe and Mrs. Agnes Okanemhe Oshogwe now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Andrew Mologhomeh Trader and Mrs. Agnes Okanemhe Trader. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME
CONFIRMATION OF NAME
I, Jatto Osiewundo Simeon wish to bring for the information of the general public that I am the same person as Simeon Osiewundo Jatto and Jatto Osiewundo as appeared in my various documents. Henceforth, I am now properly known and addressed as Jatto Osiewundo Simeon. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
I, Nwaokolo Chukwuma Christopher wish to bring for the information of the general public that I am the same person a Nwaokolo Chukwuma Christopher Ashiedu. Henceforth, I am now properly known and addressed as Nwaokolo Chukwuma Christopher. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
RECONCILIATION OF NAME
RECONCILIATION/ CHANGE OF NAME
I, Idahosa Igharo Osagie Myles wish to bring for the information of the general public that I am the same person called Idahosa Igharo Osagie, Myles Osagie Idahosa and Idahosa Osagie as appeared in some of my valuable documents. I am now properly called Idahosa Igharo Osagie Myles. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
I, Mrs. Favour Idowu Erhunmwunse wish to bring for the information of the general public that I am the same person called Precious Idowu Obazee as stated in some of my valuable documents. I am now properly known as Mrs. Favour Idowu Erhunmwunse as a result of my marriage. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public take note.
THE last time Thailand’s army seized power, in 2006, some called it “the smiling coup.” Residents of Bangkok who supported the overthrow of an elected government they accused of corruption poured into the streets, handing out flowers to soldiers who had deployed tanks across this metropolis of glass skyscrapers and ornate Buddhist temples. It was bloodless, and for a time, it was calm. Last Thursday, Thailand’s army seized power again without firing a shot, overthrowing a popularly elected administration that won a landslide vote three years earlier. The army says it had to act to restore order after seven months of increasingly violent political turbulence. But the aftermath feels much different this time. Most of the country’s ousted government has been detained or is in hiding. Journalists, scholars and politicians are being ordered to surrender at army bases. Activists have fled. The junta chief has issued ominous warnings not to criticize the takeover. A nighttime curfew has been imposed. And protests, though small, have come almost immediately. Hanging over it all is the threat of serious resistance. The political movements spawned in the aftermath of the 2006 coup — particularly the “Red Shirts” who support the ousted government — had vowed to take action if there was another. So far, there has been no bloodshed. But as ousted Education Minister Chaturon Chaisang put it Tuesday, shortly before being taken into custody by soldiers at a news conference in Bangkok, “If anyone thinks that the coup will stop all the conflict and the turmoil or violence, they would be wrong.” The May 22 putsch led by Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha “will create more conflict,” said Chaturon, the only member of the deposed government who has spoken freely in public since the military took over. “From now on, there will be more and more resistance,” he said, adding that if violence erupts, “it will be a disaster for this country.” The junta is trying to silence the critics it has detained by releasing them only if they sign a form agreeing not to do anything
“provocative.” Violators face two years in jail. Thai news outlets have been shut down or are practicing self-censorship. The military has said it will crack down on online speech it considers inflammatory. It denied responsibility for a brief and partial shutdown of Facebook in Thailand on Wednesday, but it has begun targeting websites deemed threatening. Among those now blocked: the Thailand page of Human Rights Watch. This coup is in essence a continuation of the last one. Both were sparked by political conflict surrounding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin, a billionaire who made a fortune in the telecommunications industry, shook up the country’s traditional power structure by winning over the majority lower classes with populist policies that brought virtually free health care and electricity to some villages for the first time. His opponents, including powerful businessmen, staunch royalists and much of the upper and middle classes, accused him of corruption, abuse of power and disrespect for the nation’s revered king. He was deposed in 2006, and two years later was convicted on corruption charges he says were politically motivated. He lives abroad to avoid serving prison time but had remained deeply influential in the recently ousted government, which was led by his sister until a court removed her from office earlier this month. In the backdrop of nearly a decade of political upheaval, there is also increasing anxiety about the health of 86-year-old King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, and the eventual succession. Thailand-based media rarely report on the issue because of the country’s severe lese majeste laws, which impose harsh jail terms against those deemed to have defamed the monarchy. The latest coup was the culmination of a half-year of protests triggered by a disastrous attempt by the ruling party to pass an amnesty bill that would have erased Thaksin’s two-year prison sentence and allowed him to return home. In the days immediately
Issues Features International Fears Over Thailand Future following the 2006 coup, only a few ministers were detained, and critics and perceived opponents were not summoned daily, as they are now — more than 250 so far. Public TV stations were censored briefly, but social media was in its infancy and the partisan TV stations that have backed rival sides in recent years — shut last week by the new junta — did not exist. And back then, there were no immediate street protests.
across the city, girls in karaoke bars came out to give a thumbs-up. Vendors smiled and made V signs for victory. Some clapped. Taxis drove past, their occupants leaning out the window to display hastily made “wanted” posters on sheets of white paper bearing the image of Prayuth, the army ruler. After they gathered at Victory Monument, an obelisk surrounded by a roundabout, protesters and soldiers faced off for an hour
“They have learned what democracy is, and they want to protect it.” If the last decade — or for that matter, the last century — is anything to go by, that will not be easy. The country has endured a dozen successful coups since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, and even when democratic governments were at the helm, there was never any doubt that real power remained with the military.
A protester holds a sign in front of a line of soldiers during an anti-coup demonstration in Bangkok, Thailand.
This time, demonstrators have come out daily — albeit small groups mostly numbering in the hundreds. On Sunday, about 1,500 people marched several miles (kilometers) through the heart of the capital, defying a ban on political gatherings. There have been scuffles, and some have been detained, but so far the army has not used force to disperse protesters — perhaps aware the situation could rapidly deteriorate. “I kept quiet for a long time, but I have come out now because I got upset with what’s going on,” said P a r t h i t t a g o n Wanithkungwan, an English teacher. “We have to teach these people a lesson, that such a thing should never be tolerated in a democratic society.” Although Bangkok is considered an establishment stronghold, it is not entirely so. As demonstrators walked
on a nearby street. A hundred grim-faced soldiers with automatic weapons and riot shields lined up in formation across an eight-lane road, refusing to let the demonstrators past. The swelling crowd shouted, “Get out! Get out!” and held signs saying “No Coup!” and “Thailand Needs Elections.” In the middle stood a police officer. Thailand’s police — seen as supporting the ousted government — have been coopted by the army and have at times taken on a peacemaker role. “Please, brothers and sisters. Please be reasonable. Please go back home,” the officer said, his voice booming through a loudspeaker. “These people are of a new generation,” said businessman Chatchai Mongkolsri, who joined the protest after learning about it from a popular Thai blog.
The army-backed establishment insists its goal is to root out corruption and abuse of power it says emanates from Thaksin, his family and his allies. It is now demanding political reform before elections, saying Thaksin and his supporters would use corruption and vote-buying to win. But it has been vague about how it intends to improve the system. The army-backed establishment pushed through a new constitution in 2007 drafted in part to curb Thaksin’s power, but it has still not managed to win an election. Controversial judicial rulings removed two pro-Thaksin prime ministers in 2008, one of whom was forced to work out of the VIP lounge of the capital’s old airport because protesters had taken over his office. The opposition Democrat Party eventually took over,
sparking protests in 2010 that saw downtown Bangkok occupied by the pro-Thaksin “Red Shirt” movement. Those protests ended with a bloody military crackdown that left more than 90 people dead and the city in flames. This time, the Red Shirts had vowed to respond if the government was toppled again, but many of its leaders have been detained. Some have been freed, but only on condition that they do not participate in political activity that could incite division; the junta is threatening to prosecute and jail those who do. That is why nobody has heard from Thaksin’s sister Yingluck Shinawatra, who was forced to step down as prime minister this month after a controversial court ruling, since she was released from military custody this week. Yingluck’s administration, which ascended to power after 2011 vote, had been hamstrung by an inability to use force against protesters even as they took over government buildings and key parts of Bangkok, for fear of triggering an army intervention. The army had warned the government its leadership would be responsible for any loss of life. Now that the military is in charge, its policy toward dissent — and perceived dissent — is much different. Two Thai reporters who asked Prayuth about elections and appointing a prime minister were summoned by the army a day later for asking “inappropriate” questions in an “aggressive, pushy manner.” A week into the takeover, it is hard to know how many people oppose it, but the initial anger is more palpable than it was eight years ago. “This is not just about the coup,” said Pimlapat Suksawat, a health care worker who marched this weekend. “This is about us. Our society is not what it used to be. It’s changing. The lower class is now the middle class. We are educated, we are no longer poor, but still they look down on us.” Pimlapat said that “fewer people are smiling this time ... and if we don’t come out to stop them, they’ll do it again.” Courtesy: AP
Insight
BY most accounts, dialogue remains one of the most powerful tools of resolving conflicts of major dimensions in human history. Historically, countries with advanced military technologies sometimes had some causes to resort to using negotiation as a pragmatic conflict resolution mechanism, particularly when military options cannot rectify the situation. Records have it that the U.S., which initially ruled out negotiations with the Taliban in Afghanistan, later backpedalled and entered into a dialogue with the Taliban through President Hamid Kharzai. Also, in 1979, the nowdefunct Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (U.S.S.R.) pledged never to negotiate with the Mujahideen in Afghanistan but at the end of the day, the Soviets were forced to withdraw from the country after 10 years of intense fighting. These two scenarios, among others, perhaps, tend to justify the calls made by the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Ajjampur Ghanashyam, urging the Federal Government to enter into a dialogue with the Boko Haram sect. He says that the talks should particularly aim at liberating over 200 schoolgirls who were abducted in Chibok by the group. Presumably talking from personal experience, Ghanashyam argues that the use of force cannot be solely used to address the Boko Haram crisis. He insists that the most pragmatic solution to the Chibok crisis is dialogue with the schoolgirls’ abductors. “If there is no dialogue,
there is no solution. Once problems are understood; 50 percent of the problems have been solved. “From my experience in Afghanistan when an Indian aircraft was hijacked, I was deployed from Pakistan to oversee the situation. What we did was to create access to the hijackers. “I have gone through this process of negotiating with people. Come down to their level and keep talking; that’s how we managed to secure the release of 250 passengers on board the aircraft,’’ he says. The Indian High Commissioner recalls that although the hijackers made 30 demands, including the payment of 200 million dollars, “we were able to prune the demands down to only three and no money was paid. “Most importantly, what you need to do is to create access whenever you have a problem with such group of persons,’’ says Ghanashyam. Sharing similar sentiments, Abdullahi NoSweat, a 76-year-old veteran journalist, also insists that no country succeeds in fighting insurgency through the use of force alone. No-Sweat, who in the 70s and early 80s worked and lived in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Algeria, believes that “force should not be the only option to solve the Boko Haram problem’’. He argues that countries with similar problems such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Kashmir and Algeria have all realised that negotiation is the best way out of the problem. Echoing similar viewpoints, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), a human rights lawyer, believes that tangible efforts should be made to negotiate with the
Securing The Release O Via Ne Boko Haram so as to end its growing insurgency. Ozekhome, who is a delegate to the ongoing national conference, says that the security and welfare of Nigerians are the primary responsibility of the government, as enshrined in Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution. “Negotiation affords a golden opportunity, not only to negotiate the release of the Chibok girls, but also to holistically negotiate amnesty and halt the horrific insurgency and bloodletting which have claimed over 12,000 lives,’’ he says. Ozekhome, however, stresses that negotiating with Boko Haram will not amount to negotiating out of fear, adding that such negotiation is simply an “irritating sacrifice’’ made to preserve innocent souls. “I dare say that the Federal Government should negotiate even with Satan, if that would bring back our girls. Even Satan would be humbled and diminished by such an unprecedented strategy,’’ he says. Supporting calls for dialogue, Chief Dele Momodu, a publisher, believes that the issue of Boko Haram has gone beyond the military option. He urges the government to open a line of communication with the Boko Haram insurgents with the purpose of securing the release of the abducted schoolgirls. Momodu, who is a former presidential candidate, insists that the demand of the Boko Haram sect regarding the release of some of its members, currently in detention, in exchange for the abducted girls should not be
discarded entirely. Malam Shehu Sani, President of the Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria, who has a similar viewpoint, urges the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar lll, being the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, to spearhead the crusade for the release of the abducted girls. He says that the Sultan should facilitate the intervention of credible and respected Islamic clerics in efforts to reach out to the leaders of the Boko Haram sect for the release of the Chibok girls. He emphasises that the schoolgirls’ abduction is not an issue which only the Federal Government or the security forces should strive to resolve, adding that it is a national emergency which will definitely affect the future of the country. “You (Sultan) have a moral duty and a spiritual responsibility to be visibly and actively involved in seeking the resolution of this impasse happening within the areas you have religious influence,” Sani notes in a letter he addressed to the Sultan on the matter. The civil rights activist says that as long as the girls continue to remain in captivity, the Federal Government’s credibility will be at stake, while the moral perception of the nation, the relevance of the Sultanate and the overall image of Nigerian Muslims will also be questionable. Apparently thinking on the same page, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, pledges that the military will not use force in the rescue of the abducted Chibok girls.
“Ozekhome, however, stresses that negotiating with Boko Haram will not amount to negotiating out of fear, adding that such negotiation is simply an “irritating sacrifice’’ made to preserve innocent souls.”
He gave this assurance while addressing members of the Citizen Initiative for Security Awareness (CISA), an NGO, who were on solidarity visit to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja recently. “We want our girls back, I can tell you that our military can and will do it but where the girls are held; can we go there with force?
By SAN
explains that the fight against insurgency is quite different from a full-scale war, adding: “If we are fighting an external war, they would have been begging us to withdraw by now.’’
President Goodluck Jonathan
“Nobody should say that the Nigerian military does not know what it is doing; we can’t kill our girls in the name of trying to get them back. “So we are working, the President has empowered us to do the work. If there is anyone castigating the military; definitely, there is something wrong with that person. “The good news for the parents of the girls is that we know where they are but we cannot tell you that. “We cannot come and tell you the military secret; just leave us alone, we are working to get the girls back,’’ he says. Shedding more light on the operation, the CDS
Badeh insists that the Nigerian military has proved its worth in the 1967-1971 civil war; adding that Nigerian soldiers also facilitated the restoration of democracy in Liberia and SierraLeone. On the operation in the North-East, the CDS says that the soldiers are fighting their fellow brothers. “We are not happy at all because we are killing our own kinsmen and we are killing mostly the youth. “We cannot afford to eliminate our youths, who are we going to hand over Nigeria to? We can’t kill them. “This war should not be
an us th di be an “ ou w de “ so co fo sa br na A G be Go to re F
Insight
Of Chibok School Girls egotiations
I ADAMU
fought by the military alone; it is a war that should be fought by all Nigerians. Nigeria is at war and we must all put our hands on the deck. “So, if you can’t do
nything else, you should se your mouth to support he military; don’t isparage your country ecause you don’t have nother one. “I know that people from utside Nigeria are in this ar, they want to estabilise us. “This is our country and ome people are ollaborating with the orces of darkness; we must avage our country and ring sanity back into our ation,’’ Badeh stresses. All the same, President oodluck Jonathan has een reiterating the Federal overnment’s commitment o ensuring the speedy scue of the abducted girls. For instance, he recently
where also I requested for the support of the U.S.,’’ says Jonathan. Nevertheless, analysts
gave such assurance, while receiving some advocates of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign. “So far, the search for our girls is on and it is receiving global support. Nigeria, in collaboration with Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Benin Republic, have agreed to
establish a single centre for sharing intelligence on the activities of terrorists across our national boundaries. “Apart from those efforts in the public space, the Federal Government has initiated consultations with so many stakeholders to explore alternative ways of resolving this crisis. “As commander-in-chief, I meet with security chiefs almost daily and I am in constant consultations with regional and global partners on this terrorist threat. “As early as Jan. 23, 2013, I asked the world for help in efforts to tackle terrorism; I also met with U.S. President Barack Obama during the United Nations Assembly meeting in September 2013,
insist that the government should now start to think seriously of how to engage religious and traditional
Children’s Day: ”OLDER men declare war. But it is the youth who must fight and die. And it is the youth who inherit the tribulations and sorrows That are the aftermath of war”.Herbert Housear (1895-1964). As the corybantic schmaltzy of any Catholic Communicant cannot stop the sartorial brio of the Pope from being festooned with the Zucchetto, so also no nation, state and society can cardinally tread the path of continuity, growth and progress if it does not fundamentally strategize for the future of its children. It is therefore the absolute grundnorm and also morally imperative for every society to imbibe and practice the principles of maxima debetur pueris revential” (The greatest respect is due to the children). The Heraclitian dictum posits that society will always be in a state of flux and conflict. But the rancid intensity of bellicosity in most African Nations and the use of our children as child soldiers call for immediate cassation. Child soldiers are teens used by African warlords to prosecute their demonic ambition for power, fame and wealth. The essayist Joseph Conard (1857-1924) asserts that “All ambitions are lawful except those which climb upwards on the miseries or credulities of mankind”. In preparing the child soldier for war he is first and foremost indoctrinated and infused with propaganda to psychotically hate the socalled enemy. He is then given a terrorist and sadistic mindset which heightens his sanguinary proclivities. He now becomes an expert in handling all ranges of riffles, missiles and rocket propelled grenades. This prototype and
leaders in efforts to address potential crises across the country before they escalate into dreadful and calamitous levels. They also underscore the need to establish a national
commission for religious affairs to serve as a platform for addressing various religiously-motivated crises threatening the country’s unity and survival.
Child Soldier’s And War Lords
By BOBSON GBINIJE
phenomenal monster is let lose on the streets and battle fields under the influence of drugs and alcohol. With acerbic pungency he becomes oublietted in the cacophony of gun powder. The staccatos and flurry of bullets become his resonant poetry. The horrendous decimation of lives, property and raping of his mothers’ age becomes his social tradition. He becomes quintessentially reflective of the Harakiri instinct. His naïve and parochial mental binoculars cannot fathom that he is filing the blades of the guillotine that will be used to behead him. The warlord luxuriates in this grotesque childhood drama. A warlord in most cases masquerades as a revolutionary fighting to liberate his people from oppression, poverty and death. They are usually endowed with the power of oratory. Their popular revolutionary speeches are taken from Karl Marx, Engels, Stalin, Mussolini, Fidel Castro etc. The one from the Chairman Mao Tse Tung runs thus, “A revolution is not the same as inviting people to dinner, or writing an essay, or painting a picture. A revolution is an insurrection, an act of violence by which one class overthrows another” He further said “political power grows out of the barrel of the gun”. There are warlords and there are indeed warlords. Some warlords are genuinely propelled to fight because of obvious political oppression, economic strangulation, tribal annihilation, social marginalization, religious discriminations and injustice
etc. But the use of teens as juvenile soldiers and cannon fodders in the political cannonade of warlords must be discontinued and condemned in no uncertain terms. This hideously teratoid crime against children is turning our world into an unconscionable collectivity without spirituality, beatific vision and divine afflatus. The warlords must opt for the path of dialogue or prosecute their senseless wars without breaching the principles of “sic utere tuo alienam non laedas (so use your property as not to damage the property of another). When the war is over there is an armistice, the African child soldier finds it difficult to live a normal life because of the multifaceted effect of his previous soldier-life. The sociology and psychology of violent crime must have emasculated his mental vitality. He remains a function of grotesque variables with a predisposition to violent crimes. The larger society is then prone to his butchery propensities. It is difficult to salvage him from Traumatic Stress Disorders (TSD) and the hyacinth temperaments, because the time spans of his idiosyncratic gestation from childhood through adolescence to old age was defective. He will rather grow from childhood to obsolescence. We call on the United Nations, the African Union and other such –like bodies to protect the African child from the horrors of war and the ghoulishly bellicose antics of warlords. The idea of warlordism should be discarded. All warlords must be held accountable after the
end of the war at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for crimes against humanity. All necessary international charter, Conventions and legislations protecting the right of the child must be whipped up against them. The atrocities of the Lords’ Resistance Army in Uganda, perpetrators of the genocide in Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Abubakar Shekau of Boko Haram, leaders of the sadistic Revolutionary United Front (RUF) Army in amputating the hands and legs of innocent children in Sierra Leone, the Sudanese Government in the Lethal use of the Janjaweed guerillas to annihilate the black Africans in the Darfur Region and all the warlords in the seemingly endless war in the Ivory Coast and Congo must be brought to book. The action against the ex-Liberian warlord Charles Taylor must be commended. Finally, Africa is the continent of the future and the prospect of growth and development is concretely embedded in our ability to channel our every effort towards the development of our children through sound education superimposed in the moral high ground. John Masefield asserts that, “He who gives a child a treat makes joy-bells ring in heaven’s street and he who gives a child a house builds palaces in Kingdom come” The essayist, Richard Dana said” Better to be driven out from among men than to be disliked by children”. Our African warlords must be prevailed upon to shun wars and imbibe the concept of dialogue and leave our children alone as the world marks Children’s Day. HAPPY CHILDREN’S DAY! Bobson Gbinije write from Warri.
“Finally, Africa is the continent of the future and the prospect of growth and development is concretely embedded in our ability to channel our every effort towards the development of our children through sound education superimposed in the moral high ground.”
Art Alive NGA Hosts Children Art Exhibition AS part of activities marking this year’s children Day celebration, hundreds of school children gathered at the Oba
The children’s Day celebration and Art exhibition which was organized by the National Gallery of Art (NGA), Benin
Aanena Jemitola, reminded participants that children represent the future of any society and candles of hope for any nation, hence the need to invest in children and secure their lives and dignity as human beings at all cost. To the children in attendance, Hon., Jemitola said, “…as you enjoy children’s Day today, I want you to think about your fellow children suffering in the forest… the Chibok girls. Have you said a prayer for them today?” The Arts and Culture Commissioner called for a volunteer amongst the celebrants to come up to the stage and pray for the abducted Chibok girls. Miss. Ewalenose Eromosele Oboh, a primary 4 pupil of Nosakhare Model Education Centre, audaciously
With Francis U. Odupute
L - R: Hon. Daniel Eromosele, SSA to the Governor on Arts, Culture & Tourism, Mrs K. O. Ebie, Director of Culture, Hon. Jemitola Aanena, Commissioner for Arts, Culture & Tourism and Mosis Obakpolor, Director, Edo Arts Council, at the occassion on Tuesday.
came up stage took the microphone and led the crowd in a rather marathon prayer for the safety of the abducted Chibok girls and for the security
Miss Ewalenose Eromosele Oboh, praying for the return of the Chibok girls Akenzua II Cultural Centre in City, had as its theme “SAY NO Benin City, on Tuesday, 27th TO CHILD LABOUR”, and May, 2014, to deploy visual Art was hosted by Edo Leisure. as a vehicle to press for more Delivering her key note respect and value for the dignity address at the occasion, the and human rights, of the Honourable Commissioner for Nigerian child. Arts, Culture and Tourism, Hon.
of Nigerians in the country. Earlier in a welcome address, the Director-General of the National Gallery of Art (NGA), Mr. Abdullahi Muku, said “since the year 1995, this event has been organized by the country with each year’s theme paying great attention to issues affecting the sociopsychological well-being of children as the 2014 theme: “SAY NO TO CHILD LABOUR” readily amplifies”. The NGA Director-General, who was represented by the curator of NGA (Benin out station), Mr. Owolabi S. Obuezzar, appreciated the support of the Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, stressing that “Kudos must, therefore, be given to the Comrade Governor, Adams Oshiomhole-led Administration in Edo State that has invested
so much in Education, creativity, Arts and culture, among others.” Other dignitaries present at the occasion were the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Arts, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Daniel Eromosele, the Director of Culture, Edo State, Mrs. K. O. Ebie (representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism), as well as Mr. Mosis Obakpolor, Director, Edo Arts Council. High points of the occasion included quiz competition as well as cultural dance and fashion parade by the students of Garrick Memorial Secondary School, Benin City. Participants were later taken on a curated tour of the children’s art exhibition inside the NGA hall. Various prizes were presented to winners from various schools according to their categories, creativity messages and artistic successes.
Onobrakpeya: Mask Of The Flaming Arrows
….(continued from last week)
He focuses a powerful searchlight on Onobrakpeya’s momentous, foreordaining and richly instrumental art career. He gives him a high distinction for his AgharaOtor Harmattan Workshops not only for its salient externalization of Urhobo culture but also, very essentially, for its unsurpassed creative moralizing professional mentoring and professionalizing contributions to modern African art. This takes us to Pat Oyelola’s “The Earth as Anchor to the Spirit in Ascent”, a short but shape essay that puts a diadem on Bruce Onobrakpeya for his celebration of the commoners in his Urhobo community, and therefore, other Nigerian groups. Oyelola selects few genre works of the artist for conceptual and aesthetic anatomy; to show how Onobrakpeya has realistically and perceptually glorifies and preserved the usually disrespected ignored and slighted expenences of the common people in the society.
Gani Oduntokun’s posthumous essay. “Bruce Onobrakpeya: The Metamorphosis of a Printer”, introduces Onobrakpeya as a creative phenomenon in modem African art. With highly simplified critical eloquence, he analyses Onobrakpeya’s works within well segmented periodization. Particularly from the 1950s to the 1980s. He sees Bruce as an artist with unrestrained sh creative possibilities which made him reside comfortably with dignity and shine radiantly within any artistic conventionality of i period. “Bruce Onobra. The Rewards of Creative Exploits” by Osa E groups Onobrakpeya’s themes into what can be seen, generally, as the genre and the cultural. Among other comment Egonwa discusses the artist’s obsession for experimentation and his ability to adventure in unlimited visual modes; while Onobrakpeya also had his own recognizable stylistic order. After showing the cross-cultural articulation of his work, Egonwa examines his technique and creative activism shown in
Onobrakpeya’s prints, painting and installations. He also graphically discusses the philosophical, thematic, or generally iconographic substances that make that works ideologically cultural. Another essay by Frank Ugiomoh and Basil Nnamdi, “Hanging the Ogoni Nine”, is a symbolization, historicization and outright reference to Onobrakpeya’s work. “The Martyrdom of the Ogoni Nine’. As should be expected, it is a fervid and very testamentary acknowledgement of the hopelessness of the helpless in an unpredictable society’: the society that is well serviced will artificial tableaus of supersonic injustices. The article shows how the melody and ecstasy of a church or traditional song can change to a dirge for the wailing innocence. It leadership and the necessarily uncompromising artists and artistes. The article is, in fact, a philosophical celebration of Bruce Onobrakpeya, who, in spite of his material security social and professional comfort and success, still makes himself a politically ideological artist,
-Book Review By Prof. Ola Oloidi
exhibiting a real humanistically defiant, radical Zarianist ideology. Above all, the essay is metaphoric of Bruce Onobrakpeya as an artistdefender of the culturally and socio-culturally oppressed, not only in Urhoboland, in Nigeria but also in Africa. An interview of Humphrey Bakaten with Bntce Onobrakpeya is presented under the title, “Baghdad 2.0: trabian Nights Experience”. The interview is a rewarding exposal of Onobrakpeya sponsored cross-cultural visits, particularly to Iraq as the guest of Saddan Hussein, the President and to some notable Iraqi artists. This was after the Government of Nigeria had presented two of his purchased works as gifts for the governments of Iran and Iraq; to be part of the sacramental’ rites of cultural agreement between Nigeria and these nations. The interview has thus, among other professionally elevating blazonry, shown Onobrakpeya as an art statesman, cultural ambassador
and the first Nigerian artist to be so encouraged by the Nigerian government and be so honoured, or given stately attention, iii a completely Arabian geography. “Sketches: Onobrakpeya’s World” by Dele Jegede is an accurate distilling compendium of Bruce Onobrakpeya. Here, Dele traces Onobrakpeya life from birth through childhood to primaiy and secondary education before focusing on his academic and other experiences as a student of the Nigerian College of Arts. Science and Technology, Zaria (NCAST). Jegede refuses to belabour the activities of the Zaria Art Society, but examines the activities of the art graduates of the NCAST particularly that of Onobrakpeya. He runs through the artist’s creative insurrection and their attendant stylistic apotheosis from the Zaria days to his work, the paper concludes, with Onobrakpeya’s conviction, that modern Nigerian art has developed, despite some expectations that are not forthcoming from some
art practitioners and the government. Another section of the book. “Onobrakpeya: Notes on My Work”, consists of about 12 thematic subject series. Here, Bruce Onobrakpeya has shown himself not only as artist but also as a mature and well nurtured academician. This is why he has been able to eloquently display his intellectual substance through strongly cas9lconographical, formalistic and poetic explanation if not interpretations, of his profuse integral art illustrations that are very intimidating in number, strongly assuaging in standard, uncommon in technique and greatly magnetizing in appeal. What follows, “Onobrakpeya’s Notes” is “Testimonies” which carries what some eminent or people, including President Goodluck Jonathan, scholars and the print media think about Bruce Onobrakpeya. The presented voluminous curriculum of the artist terminates the content of the book.
Art And Culture
Pantheon Culture
PANTHEON culture is the worship of all gods, synthesis of all religions and the knowledge of all gods; or at the gods collectively, a complete mythology. In the ancient time, a temple of all gods was built, especially at the rotunda, erected by Hadrian at Rome, now the church of Santa Maria, Rotunda, serving as memorial of the great dead. In ancient Benin there were tableaux, depicting the palace of the sea monarch under the sea, a kind of paradise of purity, beauty, joy and wealth. All the beautiful women and children are there, to be sent by the god to devotees on earth. There is the store house for all the riches of the world, including money and coral beads. At the centre of the altars stands the figure of Olokun-Neptune, larger than life, his arms supported in the traditional stance of deference. As the senior son of Almighty God, and ruler in his own right of a vast realm, Olokun is represented in full ceremonial regalia and behind him stand his wives and female attendants, and to his side, numerous chiefs and courtiers. The range of different personages portrayed the shrine but include musicians, jesters, peace officers, executioners, lame-gatekeepers, soldiers and various titled chiefs. Series of altars dedicated to various deities and mystical powers were erected to the demands by the god.
God Almighty-Osanobua and Neptune-Olokun are cool gods. They represent the positive aspects of experience, ritual purity, goodluck, health, long life, prosperity and happiness, all symbolized by the colour white. In sharp contrast stand Angel of death-Ogiuwu, bringer of death and the Devil-Esu who stimulates confusion, gatekeeper of the gods and wrong doing in the affairs of human beings. These deities are associated with night time, mourning, evil omens, ritual pollution which causes diseases and are symbolized by the colour black. Ogiuwu-Angel of death uses blood to wash the walls of his abode but had never appears in artistic form; his messenger ofoe does. Ofoe is sent by Ogiuwu to take human life, thus he is represented as the pursuer, a figure with no human body, only legs with which to chase victim and arms with which to capture victim. Ofoe has no mercy and yields to no sacrifice or entreaty, plea or song. EsuDevil becomes stronger perhaps of the transition and confusion far better characterize modern times than to have been so harsh in character and untrustworthy that the Devil was removed from the family of God and placed outside by the gate; where he waits. There too, Esu as gatekeeper causes havoc among those who may threaten the occupants he protects. Two deities are associated with sudden and
violent action, anger, fire and blood; red expresses the nature of Ogun and Osun; both partake of beneficent qualities of the Creator, Olokun and the harmful potentials of Esu and Ogiuwu. Theirs is an ambivalent nature in the literal
a mystical power with the potential to create or to destroy. In this capacity, Ogun cannot be artistically represented except indirectly through those objects in which the power of metal resides, and the shrines are found both
meaning of the term, for they are equally as capable of inflicting instant death as providing health and riches. Ogun is the patron of farmers, hunters, warriors, craftsmen and all who depend on tools. As an abstract, Ogun represents the force inherent in metal,
separately and as essential part of altars dedicated to all other deities. In mythology Ogun appears in oral literature as a junior son of Almighty god, sent out into the world with his cutlass to make farms and to wage war. Ogun is depicted in red war costume carrying the tools
“In ancient Benin there were tableaux, depicting the palace of the sea monarch under the sea, a kind of paradise of purity, beauty, joy and wealth. All the beautiful women and children are there, to be sent by the god to devotees on earth.�
With AMBROSE EKHOSUEHI and weapons of varied occupations however Ogun dangerous power can be used to protect his devotees, just as his sword can open the way to better life. (For clarity, Jesu, Igiesu, Jesus Christ is the beloved son of God the father). Osun in abstract sense has power which inheres in plants, leaves and herbs. Specialist seers possess
and mercury. The use of Iron links the Osun specialists to the warriors, hunters and craftsmen, all of whom have Ogun as a patron deity. In case of severe happenings (Edeosoghe) or necessities, the great heroes are invoked. Pantheon which was more complex in the ancient times seems to have fallen into
knowledge of the location of the plants, leaves and herbs, and how to brew them into magical, healing and medicinal preparations. Ogun and Osun are concerned with the processing of raw materials and their transformation into instruments of power. While Ogun powers are manifested on the physical level in tools and weapons, Osun are psychic or spiritual possession, to cure, to divine, to administer ordeals to evil doers, and indeed to combat the greatest evil Of all. In symbolism Ogun and Osun are heralds of mars
obeyance; the descent upon his priest and the songs appear to assist or persuade the deity to descend are preliminary to the desired spirits possession experience, when the worshippers believe that they can hear their deity speak. Pantheon has superhuman insight into the nature of human problems and is also able to solve human problems through the chosen media of communication the priest. It is a source of blessing and interest in human welfare for those that invoke the sprit possessing power of pantheon culture.
Event
Samuel Adegboyega Varsity Appoints 1st Professor OGWA - Samuel Adegboyega University, a tertiary institution of The Apostolic Church, Nigeria, LAWNA Territory, situated in Ogwa, Esan West Local Government Area, Edo State has appointed her first Professor three years after inception. Professor (Mrs) F.M Ogbe, B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD has institutional, national and international experience in inter- and multi-disciplinary research and projects. Professor Ogbe has 27 journal articles, 14 of which are published in foreign and indexed journals and 10 in local/national journals. She authored a book published by the United Nations University Institute for National
Resources in Africa based in Accra, and a chapter in an edited book published by Chapman and Hall, London. She has also written several reports and monographs. She provided useful information on the Nigerian flora to visiting scientists from the University of Frankfurt (1989), was research contact for the American National Academy of Sciences (Lost Crops of Africa. Volume 1: Grains 1996); has consulted and acted as resource person for national and international scientific meetings and training workshops. She contributed to the successes of the visit to Edo State in 2009 of the evaluation team on Plant
Resources of Tropical Africa (PTOTA) project under the auspices of the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) in the Netherlands.
As a foundation member, College of Research Associates, United Nations University/ Institute for Natural Resources in Africa, she c o o r d i n a t e d
Prof.(Mrs.) Folusho May Ogbe, Professor of Botany, the new Vice-Chancellor
interdepartmental and interuniversity research projects. She has numerous reports, monographs and scholarly publications in national and international journals. Her current research interests are the conservation and utilization of biodiversity and survey of indigenous knowledge for community development. She has supervised numerous undergraduate, Masters
and PhD research projects. Before her elevation into this prestigious class, she was an Associate Professor in the University and HOD, Biological Sciences Department. Her elevation to Professorial chair was approved during the recent meeting of the Governing Council on 7th, March, 2014. Her elevation has further increased the list of seasoned Professors the young University flaunts with.
“Professor (Mrs) F.M Ogbe, B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD has institutional, national and international experience in interand multi-disciplinary research and projects. Professor Ogbe has 27 journal articles, 14 of which are published in foreign and indexed journals and 10 in local/national journals.”
Nigerian Private Universities Debate: SAU
Makes History OGWA Samuel Adegboyega University is on the part of destiny she was created to thread. Like the beacon on the mountain top, though unknown to all, SAU is shining forth for men to see. On 11th, March, 2014, under the leadership of Dr. Cyrille Ngamen kouassi, (Acting HOD Philosophy
and Religious Studies), the great ambassador of this great University, Sharon Chi Onuiri, (300l) Mass Communication, VictoFugbara Goid Ajiobu ,(300L) History and Diplomatic Studies, Oloyede Betsy Moroyin,(300L) Economics, Blossom Praise Rukevwe,(300L) History
and Diplomatic Studies, Eboigbe Anita Ebinehita,(200L) Mass Communication, Imahe Pricillia Osatohanmen, (200L) Micobiology, and Isaac Odugbesan (The Most Eloquent Debater in Cotonou, Republic of Benin) went on a part of honour to partake in the just
Students of Samuel Adegboyega University, Ogwa, Edo State after they emerged 2nd position at the just concluded Nigerian Private Universities debate at Babcock University, Ogun State.
concluded Nigerian Private Universities’ debate which came to a climax at Babcock University, IlesanRemo, 27th March, 2014. Before getting to the finals, our great University was to slug it out in the very competitive Abuja zone comprising twelve (12) private Universities. Having done gallantly in that zone, Samuel Adeboyega University came first with amazing 67% to qualify for the second stage of the debate 2014. At the finals, Samuel Adegboyega University was to lock up horns with the organiser, host and the Champions of the Nigerian
Private Universities’ Debate, 2013 edition, Babcock University. Codebaters from other older Universities have asked questions, where is Samuel Adegboyega University?, How come we have never heard of them?, what stuff are they made of? And as characteristic of our students, they were calm, unperturbed with their eyes, hearts and minds on the trophy, a characteristic that had earlier won them the Best Behaved University Team in far away, Republic of Benin, in November, 2013. And on 25th March, 2014, the D-day, it was a battle of the best of the best. Our
great ambassadors did all they could do, they had devised all the tricks they had been taught, but the host University came first, and our great University came second best in the Nigerian Private Universities debate. Welcoming these great ambassadors back to school, the ViceChancellor, practically elated by this great feat, congratulated the students and again promised that the University would do all to make sure that Management will go extra miles to providing all necessary facilities potent for both learning and leisure.
“Before getting to the finals, our great University was to slug it out in the very competitive Abuja zone comprising twelve (12) private Universities. Having done gallantly in that zone, Samuel Adeboyega University came first with amazing 67% to qualify for the second stage of the debate 2014.”
Religion
The Origin Of Ancient Babylon
IN Genesis 10:1,8, it is recorded that Noah gave birth to three sons, namely Shem, Ham and Japheth, who in turn gave birth to sons, Nimrod got married to his mother Semiramis. after the great flood that ravaged the then The name Semiramis means gift of the sea. old world of Noah. Ham gave birth to a son, From this incestuous marriage between named Cush. History reveals that Cush got married to the most beautiful woman on earth, whose name was “Semiramis”. Cush and Semiramis had a son, named Nimrod. In Genesis l0: 8, 9, the bible recorded that Nimrod later became a mighty one in the earth and also a mighty hunter before the Lord. The name Nimrod means rebellion. In the days of Noah, the bible recorded in Genesis 1l: 1- 4, that the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech. Nimrod, as his name was, led a rebellion, to build for themselves a city and tower, whose top may reach unto heaven, so that they could make a name for themselves. At this time the whole human race had one language and only one form of religionidolatry. In Ancient Babylon, all men were worshippers of idols. We read in Genesis 1l: 5-9, that the Lord came down to see the city and the tower which the children of men built, spear-headed The tower of Babel by Nimrod. The Lord confounded their Mother and child, Semiramis became the language and scattered them abroad. The Mother of the abominations of the earth. place from where the Lord scattered them After the death of Nimrod, his mother, now was called Babel in Genesis l0:10. BABEL the wife decided to immortalize her means “confusion”. Thereafter the people husband/son and made him a “god” in began to disagree on religion and other Ancient Babylon. Ancient Babylon, as a matters which led to different sects, and result of this, became a bee-hive of all sorts parties. The name Babylon is coined out from of idolatrous practices, all uncleanness and the word Babel. From the foregoing, it is filthiness, and all sorts of sexual clear that Ancient city of Babylon was built immoralities. by Nimrod and it became the beginning of Through this marriage satan created a false his kingdom. religion, whereby Mother & child became History reveals that after the death of Cush, the chief object of worship in Ancient Babylon. Ancient Babylon now became the centre of spiritism and demon-worship. The inhabitants known as the
Semiramis and Nimrod
With
REV. OLU GEORGE Chaldeans were magicians, sorcerers, witches, wizards, diviners, necromancers. In Daniel 2: 1- 2, 24, they were referred to as ‘wise’ men. Through her witchcraft manipulations she seduced all the inhabitants
of ancient Babylon to worship Nimrod. This gave rise to ‘Baal — worship’, which is, the worship of Nimrod. Every locality has its own Baal, but the mode of worship varies from one locality to the other. Baal worship is therefore pagan worship, founded by Semiramis. In Egypt for example, Baal is called ‘HORUS’, meaning the ‘unseen’ Eye. Semiramis now became the goddess of the Queen of Heaven worshipped by all in ancient Babylon. Thus ancient Babylon and the modern Babylon, which the book of Revelation 17:5 refers to, as the woman upon whose forehead was written a name ‘MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH are both idolatrous religious systems having the same object of worship - THE WORSHIP OF MOTHER AND CHILD.
“The name Babylon is coined out from the word Babel. From the foregoing, it is clear that Ancient city of Babylon was built by Nimrod and it became the beginning of his kingdom.”
Reflection The Ascension Of Christ Has Abolished All Borders
THE impossible has become possible! Jesus Christ of Nazareth has ascended into heaven. This was the first time in the history of humanity when someone ascended into heaven from this world. The law of gravitation could not pull him down, the nails of the Jews could not hold him on the cross; even the border between heaven and earth could not stop him. When the appointed time came Jesus ascended into heaven amidst trumpet blast and rejoicing. Before his ascension into heaven Jesus told Necodemus, “No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man” (John 3:13). Our Lord Jesus Christ was the only One that came down from heaven. According to St. John, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). Right from the beginning Jesus, the Word-made-flesh, was with God in heaven. He later became man and dwelt among us (John 1:14). He became one like us. When he ascended into heaven he opened the gate of heaven to all who believe in him. St. Paul states clearly the true nature of Jesus before he came into the world, the form he took when he was in the world and the form he took after his ascension into heaven. According to him, “though he was in the form of God, Jesus did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philip 2:6-11). The ascension is the peak of Jesus’ glorification.
The ascension took place forty days after the resurrection of Christ. Within that forty days Jesus was appearing to his disciples instructing them on how to carry on with their mission even without his physical presence. He told them, “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I go away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I go to the Father; for the Father is greater than I” (John 14:2728). Jesus wanted his disciples to rejoice because he knew that his ascension will give way to the coming of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told his disciples, “I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counsellor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:7). Jesus did what our political leaders could not do, namely handing over power for the sake of continuity. Most of our political and even Church leaders want to die in active service whereas the young people are roaming about without employment. As soon as Jesus completed his mission he handed all his authority over to his disciples for them to continue from where he stopped. During the handing over ceremony Jesus told them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age” (Matthew 28:1820). The ascension does not necessarily mean desertion. Jesus did not abandon his disciples after his ascension. He assured his disciples, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while, the world will see me no more, but you will see me, because I live, and you will live also” (John 14:18-19)
Even as he was about to ascend into heaven Jesus assured his disciples, saying, “John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 1:5) The Holy Spirit is not coming empty handed. He is coming with power! Jesus said, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my
even to the secular world. Far back before the ascension of Christ paradise was lock up because of the sin of Adam and Eve: “The Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, He drove out the man; and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life” (Gen 3:23, 24).
witnesses” (Acts 1:8). When he has said this, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight (Acts 1:9). This is exactly what we are celebrating today, namely, ‘the ascension of Christ into heaven’. The ascension of Christ has a lot to offer to humanity, not just to the Christendom but
That was how the idea of border came into existence. Since then no one has ever entered into paradise as Jesus said in John 3:13. The ascension of Christ is a reconciliatory event. Through the ascension, our Lord Jesus Christ opened the gate of heaven. He broke the barrier that separated us from God. According to St. Paul,
“The Nigerian government is trying to erect more walls of hostility. The idea of introducing the tollgate at this time when most Nigerians are lamenting because of unemployment, insecurity, high cost of living, over taxation, is indeed malicious.”
With REV. FR. JOHN DAMIAN ADIZIE PHONE: 08076635886
“He is our peace, he has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:14). What is this dividing wall of hostility? Where can we find these walls? Who is erecting these walls of hostility? How can we bring down the walls of hostility in our own generation? One of the walls of hostility is the borders created by man to separate man from man. The resurrection and ascension of Christ abolished every border. As soon as Jesus died on the Cross the veil that separated people
from the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom (Mark 15:38). Symbolically, this curtain represents the wall of hostility that separated human beings from God and from their fellow human beings. With Christ every form of boundary has been abolished. Since the Holy Father, Pope Francis, came into office he has consistently condemned every form of racism and discriminations against immigrants. He describes it as the worst evil in the world. “Racism today is the ultimate evil in the world. When Italians, Spanish or French turn back the boats of African migrants seeking a better life,
are they not like the inn keeper who told Mary and Joseph that there was no room for them and the infant Christ? These migrants are children of God and we are commanded to love them!” For the Holy Father a racist is as bad as Satan, “A racist is not a true Christian. A racist casts aside his humanity to become a beast, a demon! He is the embodiment and personification of evil, a Satan!” The Nigerian government is trying to erect more walls of hostility. The idea of introducing the tollgate at this time when most Nigerians are lamenting because of unemployment, insecurity, high cost of living, over taxation, is indeed malicious. The former President of Nigeria, President Olusegun Obasanjo abolished tollgate when he added the money to fuel prize. When this current regime came into power they removed fuel subsidy. Only God knows what happened to the fuel subsidy. Now, the government is trying to introduce tollgate, without giving a proper account of the proceeds from the fuel subsidy. The tollgate will create an avenue for few people to embezzle more money as they are doing with the fuel subsidy. Besides, the police are on the road collecting money from the motorist; the soldiers have even started their own road block. Almost every major junction in Nigeria has market with bombers. The high ways are congested enough. To create inter-state tollgates will certainly create more congestion and traffic jamb on our high ways. Moreover, not everyone would be able to afford the money. Indirectly, the highways will be restricted to the rich who could afford the money. Transporters will definitely increase their transport fare so as to pay the tollgate. Our Lord Jesus Christ has broken the walls of hostility through his ascension into heaven. We do not need more walls. If Nigeria is indeed one nation, what the government should do at this period of insecurity and other forms of crisis in our nation is to strengthen the bond of unity, encourage interstate movements and collaboration. They should try to alleviate the sufferings of the masses and not to create more walls of hostility. As we continue to pray for wise people oriented leaders, I wish you happy feast of ascension.
International Features RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin signed a treaty with Kazakhstan and Belarus on Thursday creating a vast trading bloc which he hopes will challenge the economic might of the United States, the European Union and China. Putin denies the forging of the Eurasian Economic Union with two other former Soviet republics, coupled with Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, means he wants to rebuild a post-communist Soviet Union or as much of it as he can. He does, however, intend the alliance, with a market of 170 million people, a combined annual GDP of $2.7 trillion and vast energy riches, to demonstrate that Western sanctions imposed over the crisis in Ukraine will not isolate Russia. But the world’s major economic powers may not be quaking in their boots. Ukraine has snubbed the union, other ex-Soviet states are wary of joining a body that could give Moscow leverage over them again and Kazakhstan fiercely defended its sovereignty during negotiations, forcing Putin to water down his ambitions. “Our meeting today of course has a special and, without exaggeration, an epoch-making significance,” Putin said of the treaty, signed to loud applause from rows of seated officials in the modern Kazakh capital, Astana. “This document brings our countries to a
new stage of integration while fully preserving the states’ sovereignty.” Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, seated at a long white table at which he, Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko signed the treaty, said he envisaged the new union as being a major competitive force. “The main mission of our union in the first half of the 21st century is ... first, to gain a natural competitive advantage as an economic bridge between the East and the West, between Europe and Asia,” he said. The Eurasian Economic Union will formally come into force on Jan. 1, once it has passed the formality of being approved by the three former Soviet republics’ parliaments. The union - an idea first raised by Nazarbayev in 1994 but widely ignored at the time brings to life Putin’s dream of uniting likeminded countries, capitalising on the nostalgia of many Russians for the order and relative economic and political stability of the communist Soviet empire that collapsed in 1991. After 14 years in power, he sees its creation as a personal political legacy for when he eventually steps aside and it has become one of the “big ideas” of his third term as president. The treaty deepens ties forged when the three countries took the initial step of creating a customs union in 2010 and guarantees the free transit of goods, services, capital
Russian President Vladimir Putin (left), Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev (centre) and Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko Stand for a photograph before a meeting of the Eurasian Economic Union in Astana yesterday.
Putin Creates Ex-Soviet Trade Bloc and workforce and coordinates policy for major economic sectors. Putin noted that Kazakhstan and Russia accounted for one-fifth of the world’s natural gas reserves and 15 percent of oil reserves - although Belarus is not an energy producer, and its struggling economy looks like a burden for Astana and Moscow. Asked on Saturday if he was trying to revive the Soviet empire, Putin said: “They try to stick this label on us - a label that we are trying to restore an empire, the Soviet Union,
make everyone subordinate. This absolutely does not correspond to reality.” The new union, however, reinforces Putin’s drive to show Russia will not be isolated by sanctions, a message he sent by reaching a $400-billion gas supply deal with China last week. Any hopes of rebuilding a large part of the Soviet Union have been thwarted by Ukraine, which opted not to join the union after its Moscow-leaning president was ousted and decided to build trade and
political ties with the much larger EU instead. That was a huge blow, depriving the union of a market of 45 million people and, in the words of ex-Kremlin spin doctor Gleb Pavlovsky, making Putin’s original dream “impossible” to fulfil. Armenia and Kyrgyzstan, hardly economic powerhouses, are considering joining but other ex-Soviet republics, including oil and gas producer Azerbaijan, gas-rich Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan with its market of 30 million
people, have steered clear of the union. The creation of the new alliance also involves costs for Russia, posing an extra burden on an economy already on the brink of recession. Russian Deputy Finance Minister Sergei Shatalov told Reuters in March that Belarus and Kazakhstan received about $6 billion annually from Russia in direct and indirect support, and said that could increase by $30 billion if all trade restrictions were lifted in 2015 after the union is created Courtesy: REUTERS
“The new union, however, reinforces Putin’s drive to show Russia will not be isolated by sanctions, a message he sent by reaching a $400-billion gas supply deal with China last week.”
International Features THE election of Egypt’s former military chief to the nation’s presidency may be remembered for its central irony: He won in a historic landslide — only to shatter his image of invulnerability in the process. Abdel-Fattah elSissi’s win was never in doubt, but what the retired 59-year-old field marshal wanted was an overwhelming turnout that would accord legitimacy to his July ouster of Egypt’s first freely elected president — the Islamist Mohammed Morsi — and show critics at home and abroad that his action reflected the will of the people. In his last interview before polls opened, he exuberantly told Egyptians he wanted more than 40 million of the nearly 54 million registered voters to turn out. The reality was far more tepid. According to unofficial results announced by his campaign early Thursday, el-Sissi won 92 percent of the vote, resoundingly beating his sole rival, leftist politician Hamdeen Sabahi. However, the turnout nationwide was around 44 percent, el-Sissi’s campaign said. Not the worst of the multiple elections held the past three years, but well below the nearly 52 percent turnout in the 2012 election that Morsi won. The victory was tainted by the extraordinary means used by the military-backed government to get even that many voters to the polls. After signs that the turnout on the first of two scheduled days of voting on Monday was a lowly 15 percent, the government declared the next day a national
holiday to free people to go to polls. The election commission threatened to slap fines of $70 — a hefty sum for most Egyptians — on those who did not vote. When on Tuesday polling still seemed low, the commission abruptly extended the election to a third day. The state made bus and train travel free to allow migrants to return to home districts to vote. Throughout the day, TV networks berated Egyptians as “ungrateful” and “traitors” for not voting. To many, it was clear the state was trying to help its favored candidate, reminiscent of machinations during the 29-year-rule of autocrat Hosni Mubarak, toppled in a 2011 prodemocracy uprising. And el-Sissi was not supposed to need a boost. For the past 10 months, the government, TV stations and newspapers have made him the object of relentless adulation, pinning superlatives on him as firm and efficient, empathetic and pious, manly and handsome, insisting he is the sole figure able to lead and feeding jingoism for the military and police. “The popular hero didn’t find the masses marching to the ballot boxes to lift him to the palace. The weddings turned to anguish,” prominent Egyptian columnist Wael Abdel-Fattah wrote in the Lebanese daily Assafir. “The shock here is in the state’s need to use its old tools to defend its nominee.” El-Sissi can genuinely claim he comes into office with an impressive tally of votes — his campaign said he won 23.38 million votes. Official results are expected in early June. That’s more than the 13 million that Morsi won, and even more than the around 18 million votes that went to Morsi’s Muslim Brotherhood and allied parties in the first postMubarak parliamentary elections, the Islamists’ most resounding electoral showing.
Egypt: A Pyrrhic Landslide But the puncturing of his image is no small blow. It points out a significant pool of public discontent with el-Sissi and will likely encourage the Brotherhood in its protests, hoping more Egyptians will join its ranks if the new president fails to improve their lot. It gives hope to the more secular, pro-democracy revolutionary groups, signaling that Egyptians are as wary of a military man in power as they were of the Islamists. It also served notice that Egyptians can still
Victory
comments on the merits of moderate Islam and his intention to fight extremism. The boycott by the Brotherhood, which has the country’s strongest get-outthe vote-machine, heavily gouged the turnout numbers. But many others who declined to vote — and even some who voted for el-Sissi — said he seemed to take Egyptians for granted and lacked solutions for millions living in poverty. They were struck by how he showed
among fellow taxi drivers sipping tea under a main bridge in central Cairo. Even el-Sissi’s campaign motto — “We work together” — struck Salem as a way to evade responsibility. “When he fails, it will be us failing, not him,” he said. El-Sissi acted presidential long before the first ballot was cast. Unlike Sabahi, the only other contender in the race, elSissi never went into the streets to campaign, instead
provinces into the desert to redistribute population. His answer for funding it was billions of dollars from oilrich Gulf nations and from Egyptian expatriates. And if Gulf money doesn’t come through, “it will be a big problem,” said engineer Mohammed Bahaa Eddin, standing near a vacant Cairo polling center. He voted for el-Sissi, but added: “When I watch him on TV, I am uncomfortable. Something is ambiguous about him. His ideas are not clear.” El-Sissi has led the harsh crackdown on Morsi’s
A banner with the photo of Presidential candidate Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi is splattered with red paint with Arabic that reads, “Free Egyptian party campaign,” in Cairo, Egypt recently.
pull off stunning surprises — and that after rising up against two presidents since 2011, they expect more from a politician than heroic status. Many el-Sissi supporters voted enthusiastically, singing and dancing at the polls, saying they had confidence that a man from the military can bring stability after three years of bloody unrest. Equally appealing were his
little tolerance for dissent, was dismissive of freedoms and rights and was strongly backed by former members of Mubarak’s ruling party — all fueling concerns he will bring back Mubarak’s autocratic ways. “This man will seal the gates of democracy behind him with a lock and chain. It will be our last elections, and it is a farce,” said Ramadan Salem, a 57-year-old boycotter who was sitting
“His straight talk on the extent of economic problems rang harsh to some, telling already struggling Egyptians to buckle down and sacrifice. Promising “great leaps,” he gave mixed signals on his policies.”
giving TV interviews and holding meetings in opulent surroundings with influential groups like editors, businessmen, celebrities and clerics. His straight talk on the extent of economic problems rang harsh to some, telling already struggling Egyptians to buckle down and sacrifice. Promising “great leaps,” he gave mixed signals on his policies. He advocated heavy government involvement in the economy with state-sponsored megaprojects to create jobs and even in setting market prices. At the same time, he flirted with businessmen, saying he planned to give them a share. He spoke of reshaping the map of Egypt by expanding Nile Valley
supporters that has killed hundreds and jailed thousands. It has also imprisoned secular-leaning dissenters and brought reports of abuses of detainees, random arrests and lack of due process. In interviews, el-Sissi insisted stability has priority over rights of speech and protest. He was brusque and imperious at times, snapping at interviewers for perceived slights of the military. That worried some even beyond the ranks of revolutionary activists. Mohammed Amer, a 26year-old government employee who didn’t vote, said that during the campaign, “people began to realize how shallow he is.” “People saw the return of the police state.” Courtesy: AP
International Features UNEASY calm returned to the streets of Donetsk after the biggest battle of a pro-Russian separatist uprising in eastern Ukraine, a conflict transformed by the landslide election of a pro-European leader who has vowed to crush the revolt. Government forces killed dozens of rebel fighters on Monday and Tuesday in an assault to retake the airport, which the rebels had seized the morning after Ukrainians overwhelmingly elected Petro Poroshenko as president. Pro-Moscow gunmen have declared the city of a million people capital of an independent Donetsk People’s Republic. After the government assault - the first time Kiev has unleashed its full military force against the fighters after weeks of restraint - morgues were filled with bodies of rebel gunmen. Some were missing limbs in a sign of the massive firepower used against them. The separatist authorities say as many as 50 died, including a truckload of wounded fighters blasted apart as they were driven away from the battlefield. The government said it suffered no losses in the operation, which saw its aircraft strafe the airport and paratroops land to reclaim it. Poroshenko, a billionaire confectionary magnate who became the first Ukrainian since 1991 to win the
presidency outright in a single round of voting, repeated his promise to restore government control rapidly over secessionist-held areas. “We are in a state of war in the east. Crimea is occupied by Russia and there is great instability. We must react,” he told Germany’s Bild newspaper. “The antiterrorist operation has finally begun in earnest. We will no longer permit these terrorists to kidnap and shoot people, occupy buildings or suspend the law. We will put an end to these horrors – a real war is being waged against our country.” His swift offensive has thrown down a challenge to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who made defending Russians in other parts of the former Soviet Union a pillar of his rule since declaring his right to use military force in Ukraine in March. Moscow has demanded Kiev halt the military operation in the east, but Putin has also announced the withdrawal of tens of thousands of troops he had massed on the frontier. A NATO officer said on Wednesday thousands of Russian troops had indeed been pulled out, although tens of thousands were still in place. Moscow says it is willing to work with Poroshenko but has no plans for him to visit for talks. It denies accusations by Kiev and
East Ukraine Awaits Fate Western countries that it is behind the rebellion. “I have no doubt that Putin could end the fighting using his direct influence,” Poroshenko said. “I definitely want to speak with Putin and hold talks to stabilize the situation.” In Donetsk, some shops were closed and streets were quieter than usual, but calm had returned. Around 1,000 miners bussed in from around the
held a referendum on independence on May 11, told the miners. A Ukrainian fighter jet roared overhead, and some gunfire could be heard in the distance, apparently from rebels shooting at the aircraft. A miner from the stateowned Abakumova mine attending the demonstration who gave his name as Valery said: “I want peace and to be able to work and make
fled in February, as illegitimate and led by “fascists”. But Moscow’s position was undermined by the scale of Poroshenko’s election victory, and Kiev now appears to feel emboldened to act against the rebels with less threat of Russian retaliation. A former cabinet minister under both proand anti-Russian
kept away from the polls would not have made a difference in the outcome. Although many in eastern Ukraine are skeptical of the government in Kiev, opinion polls have shown most favor some sort of unity with Ukraine. The majority in the east describe themselves as ethnic Ukrainians although they speak Russian as their primary
Miners from around the region walk during a demonstration in support of the self-proclaimed “Donetsk People’s Republic” in Donetsk, on Wednesday.
eastern Donbass coalfield staged a demonstration in support of the separatists in Donetsk on Wednesday. “Kiev does not rule us any more, we will no longer accept that,” Denis Pushilin, leader of the separatist Donetsk People’s Republic which
money. I want the occupying soldiers to leave and return to their Kiev junta,” he said. Russia and its state media which broadcast into eastern Ukraine have consistently described the government in Kiev, which took power after a pro-Russian president
“A NATO officer said on Wednesday thousands of Russian troops had indeed been pulled out, although tens of thousands were still in place.”
presidents, Poroshenko won nearly 55 percent of the vote in a field of 21 candidates and commanded support across the east-west divide that has defined Ukrainian politics since independence. His nearest challenger won just 13 percent. Other potential rivals had bowed out and urged supporters to back the frontrunner in a show of national unity. The separatists managed to block voting in Donetsk and neighboring Luhansk provinces, but the 10 percent of the electorate
language. “We live in Ukraine,” said Mikhail, 31, a theater manager. “I work at the Ukrainian Theatre in Donetsk. Would I work at the Donetsk People’s Republic Theatre? That doesn’t sound so good. I think all this mess is only temporary. “I didn’t vote because we could not vote here, but Poroshenko seems decent,” he said. “We will see. Many were elected as decent and then turned into bribetakers as a general rule. I hope he will not let Ukraine down.” Courtesy Reuters
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Man United Owner Glazer Dies
MANCHESTER United owner Malcolm Glazer died at age 85. Glazer, who bought tonight,” the Premier League United in 2005, also club said. His $1.47-billion (790 owned the NFL’s Tampa million pounds) takeover of Bay Buccaneers, who Manchester United involved announced his death on a large amount of debt and their website. was bitterly opposed by fans. The reclusive Palm Beach, Florida, United fans protested and businessman had been in burned Glazer’s likeness in failing health since April effigy because they feared 2006 when a pair of the American was acquiring strokes left him with the storied club purely for impaired speech and financial gain. At the time, Mark limited mobility in his Longden of the Independent right arm and leg. United Under Glazer ’s Manchester Supporters Association, said ownership, United won his group was “calling on all the Premier League five supporters to wear black. If times, as well as the they can get hold of black Champions League in flags, they should wave 2008. “The thoughts of them because it represents everyone at Manchester what is happening to the United are with his family club.”
Although United’s debt has dropped from a high of high of $1.1
going public with the news. Wenger says that players being gay should not even be an issue but that the inevitable scrutiny that would be put on an active player if they came out might discourage them from doing so. “Because of media interest, maybe no-one will come out,” Wenger told Arsenal magazine. “He (Hitzlsperger) could not come out during his career which means we still have some progress to make in our game. “Hitzlsperger should not have had to wait until the end. “But overall he should not have to come out at all because it should just be considered like anything
else. “It would be good if four, five, six people come out and after that nobody speaks about it anymore because they just think it is people who live their life like they want to live it. “I think football is there to provoke moments of happiness, excitement and positive experiences in people, no matter where they come from, what colour skin they have, what religion they are or what their preferred sexuality is. “It’s very sad that some people think that this sport should only be reserved for those who have certain characteristics.”
billion in 2008-09 to $590 million, anger toward the Glazers has remained
Malcolm Glazer
Premier League May Never Have Openly ARSENAL manager In March, former Gay Player - Wenger England Arsene Wenger says he international Sol could understand it if a gay footballer in the Premier League never revealed his sexuality while still playing. Earlier this year, former Aston Villa, West Ham and Everton star Thomas Hitzlsperger revealed he was gay but he waited until the end of his playing career before
Arsene Wenger
Campbell said football was “not ready” for gay players. “I don’t think they are ready, the system isn’t ready for them,” he told BBC radio. “I don’t think football is ready - some of the authorities might say they are ready but I don’t think football is.”
Carlo Ancelotti
manager last summer, according to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. Ferguson said he handpicked David Moyes to follow him into the United hot-seat after 26 years in charge. But the then Everton boss may not have been Ferguson’s first choice, according to Real Madrid chief Perez. He claims Ferguson approached Ancelotti last
year to offer him the chance to take over at Old Trafford, but he claims the Italian opted for Real Madrid instead. “I’m absolutely sure (they did),” Perez told Radio Cope when asked if United wanted Ancelotti as their manager. “Not this year, but last year. Ferguson asked him to succeed him.” Former Chelsea boss
Bowl-champion organization. His dedication to the community was evident in all he did, including his leadership in bringing Super Bowls to Tampa Bay,’’ NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said. Born in Rochester, New York, the son of a watchparts salesman, Glazer began working for the family business when he was 8 and took over the operation as a teenager when his father died in 1943. As president and CEO of First Allied Corp., the holding company for the family business interests, he invested in mobilehome parks, restaurants, food service equipment, marine protein, television stations, real estate, natural gas and oil production and other ventures. In March 2010, Forbes ranked him as tied for the world’s 400th richest person, estimating his net worth at $2.4 billion. The Buccaneers announced that the Glazer family would host a private family funeral service, with a public memorial to be announced later.
international has agreed a four-year deal with the Swans which will come into effect on July 1. Fabianski, 29, joined the Gunners from Legia Warsaw in 2007, but struggled for a regular role in the first team, managing 75 starts in all competitions.
His last appearance for Arsenal was in the 3-2 FA Cup final win over Hull that ended the club’s nine-year wait for a trophy. He will now compete with Swansea’s current first choice Michel Vorm under manager Gary Monk next season.
Lukasz Fabianski Joins Swansea
SWANSEA City have announced the signing of goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski from Arsenal. Fabianski arrives at the Liberty Stadium on a free transfer as his contract at Arsenal is due to expire. The Poland
Ferguson Wanted Ancelotti At United - Perez
SIR Alex Ferguson wanted Carlo Ancelotti to succeed him as Manchester United
among sections of the fan base. The family’s divisiveness in Manchester has been exacerbated by its reluctance to engage with any supporters or speak publicly about the club. Glazer appointed his sons Joel and Avram as joint chairmen of United’s board, and the family’s ownership of the club is not expected to change. Malcolm Glazer was not a member of the United board, while his other children — Kevin, Bryan, Darcie and Edward — are club directors. The Glazer family controls 90 percent of the club shares, which went public on the New York Stock Exchange in 2012. Manchester United’s brief statement did not refer to the future of the club, but the Buccaneers, who won a Super Bowl under Glazer’s ownership in 2003, said a succession plan will assure the NFL franchise remains in the family, with his wife, Linda, and children continuing as owners. “Malcolm Glazer was the guiding force behind the building of a Super
Ancelotti led Madrid to their 10th European Cup and the Copa del Rey in his first season in charge at the Bernabeu. Moyes was sacked just 10 months into his sixyear contract after United failed to secure Champions League qualification for the first time in 24 years. Holland coach Louis van Gaal will take over the helm at Old Trafford following the World Cup.
Lukasz Fabianski
Ronaldo’s Celebration In Final “Was A Movie Stunt” CRISTIANO Ronaldo’s goal celebration in the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid was pre-planned for the cameras, according to a respected Spanish journalist. Ronaldo whipped off his shirt ecstatically after scoring a penalty to seal Real Madrid’s 41 triumph after extra-time in Lisbon. It was in stark contrast to his reaction when Gareth Bale scored Real Madrid’s crucial second goal, when he did not join his team-mates in their jubilant celebrations. Now Spanish journalist Jose Felix Diaz says that Ronaldo’s celebration was all for the cameras and will make-up part of ‘Ronaldo: The Movie’ – a project he is developing to help promote his ‘CR7’ brand. Diaz wrote in El Confidencial: “Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated with excess for Real Madrid’s
Ronaldo Celebrating
Recuperating Woods Rules Himself Out Of US Open THREE-TIMES champion Tiger Woods has ruled himself out of next month’s US Open at Pinehurst in North Carolina as he recovers from back surgery, the second successive Major championship he will miss this year. his back again on the last day Tiger Woods puts on his of the WGC-Cadillac sunglasses on the 3rd hole green Championship in Miami just during the final round of the one week later. WGC - Cadillac Championship Woods pulled out of the (Reuters) March 20-23 Arnold Palmer The former world number one Invitational, a key lead-up has been sidelined from tournament he has won eight competitive golf since late times, in the hope that he could March after requiring treatment play at the Masters before he for a pinched nerve in his back opted to undergo surgery on that had troubled him for March 31. months, and was unable to He said he risked further compete at the Masters in April. injury had he kept playing “Unfortunately, I won’t be because of the repetitive there because I’m not yet motion from golf but that there physically able to play should be no long-lasting competitive golf,” Woods said effects from the surgery. on his website, referring to the “It’s just because the nature June 12-15 US Open. of injuries that I’ve had before “The US Open is very in the past,” Woods said earlier important to me, and I know it’s this year. “I’ve had knees and going to be a great week. Despite Achilles (injuries) and I’ve missing the first two Majors (this been through that. And I could year), and several other play through those. important tournaments, I remain “But this one, I just can’t do very optimistic about this year it. Back injuries are no joke. and my future.” This will be the sixth Major championship missed by Woods due to injury, and he remains TAYLOR Townsend was so stuck on his career tally of 14 wrapped up preparing for her wins, having not clinched one of own match at the French Open golf’s blue riband events since she did not realise that her the 2008 US Open at Torrey Pines. Woods has not set a timetable for his likely return and could possibly also miss the year’s third Major, the July 17-20 Open at Royal Liverpool in Hoylake. The 38-year-old American has been increasingly plagued by injuries in recent seasons as the wear and tear of years on the tour have begun to take a toll. He failed to finish the US PGA Tour’s Honda Classic at Palm Beach Gardens in early March, quitting after 13 holes in his final round. Taylor Townsend The American then tweaked
When people say they’ve felt debilitated when their back hurts, I understand what that feels like.” Woods’ lengthy history of injury began with a troublesome left knee, first operated on when he was a freshman at Stanford University in 1994. Three more operations on that knee have
followed. He has also suffered injuries to his ankle and neck, his right and left Achilles tendons and fractures in his leg, which he defiantly played through on the way to victory at the 2008 US Open after a 19-hole play-off against Rocco Mediate. Woods has missed two British
Tiger Woods
I Can’t Believe Serena Lost fellow American, world No. 1 Serena Williams, had lost. The exits of the Williams sisters, defending champion Serena and her elder sister
- Townsend
Venus, in the second round was the big story on Wednesday. Townsend, 18 and playing in her first grand slam singles, was asked how it felt to win on the same court where hours earlier Serena had lost. “Serena lost? She did? Oh, oops. Whoa,” the world number 205 exclaimed. ‘Seriously, you didn’t know?’ she was asked. “No, I thought she won. I saw (6-)2 and (6-)2. I was like ‘Oh, that was fast’,” added Townsend. “Wow. Anyways ... Um, wow, that was interesting.” Townsend wrote her own headlines by beating 20th seed Alize Cornet of France 6-4 4-6 6-4 to reach the third round.
Opens, one US Open, one Masters and one PGA Championship since 2008 because of injuries, and will now add to that number next month. He is a three-time winner of the year’s second Major, having triumphed at the US Open in 2000, 2002 and 2008
fourth goal during the final in Lisbon. Few understood why and Atletico were outraged when they saw the actions of the Portuguese player. “Well, the reason has little to do with the sport itself and with another facet that for many is killing football and that is the marketing. “CR7 was being recorded by a special camera and his performance in the game will be part of the film: ‘Ronaldo, The Movie.’ “The Portuguese forward knew where the camera was placed and ran towards there to celebrate the goal.” It all seems like an incredibly far-fetched story, so we asked our office in Madrid if Diaz was a credible source and they told he was. “This story is not official but it seems to be true,” Eurosport Spain’s Adrian Garcia told us. “Everyone in the Spanish media is now reporting this as José Felix Díaz is a serious and important journalist who has followed Real Madrid for many years. He is one of the top sports journalists over here.” Ronaldo had a pretty poor game in Lisbon so this seems like an incredibly vain move – but then again – this is the man who earlier this week appeared naked on the cover of Vogue with his model girlfriend so is anyone really surprised?
Djokovic Sweeps Aside Chardy At Roland Garros
NOVAK Djokovic beat Jeremy Chardy 6-1 6-4 6-2 to move into the third round of the French Open. Chardy, who beat Federer at the Rome Masters earlier this month, spelled out why Djokovic is fancied to end eight-times champion Rafa Nadal’s reign here. Djokovic won seven of his nine break opportunities and fired down 31 winners as he eased into the third round. “He was simply stronger than me, bigger than me in all compartments. You’re always under pressure. He knows everything. He can do everything,” said Chardy. Roger Federer was kept on his toes before he eventually subdued Argentine journeyman Diego Sebastian Schwartzman 63 6-4 6-4 to reach the third round of the French Open on Wednesday. The 17-times grand slam champion from Switzerland, was kept under pressure throughout by the world No. 109, who never gave up and even broke serve in the first set. “I’ve always felt he had a little bit of an upper hand from the baseline. I feel he was doing a really good job being aggressive and making good plays,” Federer,
who next faces Russian Dmitry Tursunov, told a news conference. “I wish I could have played a bit more freely today overall. But then again, I think it was a solid match. “I served well. That’s always the key to stay solid in your own service games.” Czech Tomas Berdych, the sixth seed, started slowly before beating Aleksandr Nedovyesov of Kazakhstan 67(4) 6-4 7-5 6-3. Eighth seed Milos Raonic got past Jiri Vesely of the Czech Republic 7-6(4) 6-4 6-1. Russian Mikhail Youzhny, the 15th seed, lost 6-0 6-3 3-6 6-4 to Czech Radek Stepanek before Spain’s Marcel Granollers overturned a two-set deficit to beat 20th seed Alexandr Dologopolov of Ukraine 1-6 3-6 6-3 6-0 6-2. Gilles Simon, the 29th seed, eased past Alejandro Gonzales of Colombia 6-4 6-0 6-2 and there were also straight-set wins for Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut, the 27th seed, and Ernests Gulbis, the 18th seed from Latvia. French Open men’s singles matches
2014 FIFA World Cup Count-Down Johnson Hoping To Face Suarez
Australia First To Arrive In Brazil
AUSTRALIA will be making their fourth World Cup appearance, reaching the Round of 16 once, back in 2006. The Australian national team landed in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday, the first foreign team to arrive in Brazil for the 2014 World Cup. Australia are heavy underdogs in Group B, having been drawn alongside defending World Cup champions Spain, Chile and the Netherlands. Australia opens their campaign on June 13 against Chile in the western city of Cuiaba. The Socceroos will train in Vitoria, which is located about 300 kilometres (200 miles) northeast of Rio de Janeiro. Midfielder Mark Bresciano, speaking before leaving Australia, said to expect a few surprises from the team ranked 59th in the world. Bresciano called it a “very tough group and competition. We are going to go there and try to do our country proud and do ourselves proud and try to shock the world.” Jerome Valcke, the top FIFA official in charge of the World Cup, welcomed Australia with a message on his Twitter account.
Luis Suarez
Australia Players
Wilshere Relishes Beckham’s Iconic No 7 Shirt
JACK Wilshere is honoured to have been given the same number seven shirt worn by his England hero David Beckham. The FA confirmed England’s World Cup squad numbers during a training camp in Portugal last Thursday. Wilshere was lying on a sun lounger at the time, drifting off after a long training session in which he was made to wear padded clothing to replicate the sweaty conditions he will encounter in Manaus. Ordinarily the sleep denial
De Gea Set To Make Spain Debut
MANCHESTER United goalkeeper David De Gea is excited about the prospect of making his full Spain debut in todays World Cup warm-up against Bolivia in Seville. The former Spain under-21 captain, now 23, is widely tipped to feature in the game as he and Liverpool’s Pepe Reina are the only two goalkeepers in Vicente Del Bosque’s matchday squad. Regular No. 1 Iker Casillas has been allowed to rest following his Champions League final exertions with Real Madrid, while previous backup Victor Valdes of Barcelona misses this summer ’s big international tournament as he is recovering from long-term injury.
David De Gea
GLEN Johnson is hoping Luis Suarez will be fit for England’s World Cup encounter with Uruguay, even though his Liverpool teammate is one of the best players he has
De Gea told a news conference at the La Roja camp in Madrid on Wednesday that he was not counting any chickens, but would be delighted to play against Bolivia if asked. “The boss [Del Bosque] has not said anything about the lineup, we want to enjoy these days,” he said. “Yes, I really want to make my debut. I know that the level of goalkeepers is high. I am trying to enjoy myself as much as possible, and I hope I get this opportunity.” Spain’s World Cup build-up has been affected by the injury problems of Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa, who could well miss out on the tournament in his home country of Brazil due to a hamstring tear. De Gea said that it made sense to wait as long as possible to see if his former Atletico teammate could recover in time, given the impact Costa could have on games. “[Costa] is important for the national team, I believe you have to wait for him,” he said. “I spent a few years with him. This has been his ‘breakout year.’ He can decide games, he has had an impressive season and now we have to wait. We want him to be 100 percent to be with the senior side.”
would have peeved Wilshere after such an arduous session, but this was a welcome wake-up call because Beckham, England’s most iconic number seven in recent times, also happens to be the Arsenal midfielder’s idol. “I was lying on a sunbed trying to go to sleep actually and a text came through saying I was number 7. That was it,” Wilshere said with a broad smile. “There has been Bryan Robson and David Beckham (who have worn seven) and now I have it. Beckham was my hero growing up as well so it is quite nice to get it.” Beckham, England’s mostcapped outfield player, features in almost every one of Wilshere’s World Cup memories. The Arsenal midfielder was only six at the time, but he remembers Beckham’s dismissal in France ’98 as well as his performances in 2002 and 2006. Just like Beckham was in France, Wilshere heads into his first international tournament with few caps to his name. But even though Wilshere has only 15 international appearances under his belt, he is by no means the baby of the group. Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley, Daniel Sturridge and Luke Shaw are four of the 12 players in Roy Hodgson’s squad who have fewer caps than the Gunners midfielder. “Luke Shaw was born in ’95. Oh my god,” Wilshere said with a shocked expression on his face. “I’m not the baby any more. Ross is ’93. Raheem is ’94... “They have done well and they are here on merit.” The youthful look of Hodgson’s squad has left Wilshere with an optimistic view on the tournament ahead. “We are not going to say we are happy with the semis,” he said. “We are going there to win it.” Injury is the main reason why
Wilshere is approaching 20 caps, rather than double that amount. He missed Euro 2012 because of an ankle injury which kept him out for 16 months in total. Alarm bells started ringing in March when he broke his foot against Denmark, but Wilshere is nearing full fitness after being eased back into action by Arsene Wenger. Wenger was accused of failing to act in England’s best interests three years ago when he advised against Wilshere’s inclusion in the Under-21 squad for the European Championship after a season of toil at the Emirates. But the Frenchman was deliberately cautious with Wilshere in his rehabilitation this time around as he did not want to ruin the 22-year-old’s chances of going to Brazil. “I came back training and I was panicking a bit about (making) the squad,” Wilshere
Jack Wilshere
said. “So I went to him (Wenger) and said: ‘I think I am ready’. “He said ‘no you are not, you need to train if you are to have a good World Cup, you need a good fitness base and you need to make sure you are right in every aspect’. And that is what I am now.” Wilshere admits his injury problems have taken their toll on him psychologically. “The more it happens the lower you get,” he said. Should any problems arise in Brazil, Wilshere will seek out Dr Steve Peters, the acclaimed psychiatrist who will accompany the team to Miami and South America. He said: “It’s good for top athletes because sometimes it can be tough mentally if you are not playing well or you feel things aren’t going your way, it’s good to talk to someone who can understands your brain.”
seen. Those images have led to fears about Suarez’s participation in Brazil, but having text Suarez, Johnson is expecting the forward to be fit for the Group D clash between England and Uruguay on June 19. “Not in those words, no,” Johnson said. “But, yeah, that was the point. I’ve not seen the papers for a while so I don’t know what people think the injury is but he doesn’t seem to think it’s too bad. “He thinks he’ll be fit. We’ve been talking by text. I certainly don’t want him to be injured. You don’t ever want to see your mates or teammates injured. But if he was to miss our game and be fit for the next one...” Suarez enjoyed a fine 2013-14 season at Liverpool, netting 31 goals in 33 league games after returning from suspension for biting Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic. His form helped the Reds go close to a first league title since 1990 and left a huge impression on Johnson. “He’s one of the best strikers I’ve ever played with and I’ve played with a few good ‘uns,” he said. “He’s the sort of player who can create things out of nothing and causes everybody problems — and you’ve seen it just as much as I have — he’s clearly not one of the players you want to play against in the World Cup. But I’d rather he be fit than injured.”
International Friendly
Nigeria Rally To Draw Against Scotland
Nigeria’s Ruben Gabriel (right) challenges for the ball with Scotland’s James Morrison (left) during their international friendly soccer match at Craven Cottage in London recebtkty
Nigeria’s Elderson Echiejile (centre) challenges for the ball with Scotland’s Shaun Maloney (right) during their international friendly soccer match at Craven Cottage in Londay recently.
NIGERIA began their World Cup preparations with a 2-2 draw with Scotland at Craven Cottage. The build-up to the game was overshadowed by rumours of investigations into match-fixing, but no concrete details had come to light. Nigeria were in London before they left the country to begin their preparations for the World Cup, and Scotland are rebuilding for their European Championship campaign. Scotland took the lead in the match when a quick corner came to James Morrison, who drove a low shot into the box for Charlie Mulgrew to cleverly flick over the goalkeeper. There were few chances for either side in an uneventful half, but Nigeria equalised just before half-time when Michael Uchebo picked up the ball outside the box, drove towards goal and had his shot deflected away from the Allan McGregor and into the net. In the second half, Scotland regained the lead shortly after the restart, when Azubuike Egwueke turned in Alan Hutton’s low cross. From that moment, the rhythm of the game was disrupted with regular substitutions, meaning that no side could put together any fluid moves but Nigeria managed a dramatic equaliser when a goal mouth scramble allowed Uche Nwofor to drill in an equaliser from a tight angle. KEY EVENTS 8' - UCHEBO SHOT Hutton’s pass is intercepted, but McGregor gets down smartly to saved from Uchebo. 10' - MULGREW SCORES -
Mulgrew expertly turns Morrison’s shot over the ‘keeper to give Scotland the lead. 32' NAISMITH DISALLOWED GOAL Maloney’s corner is met by Naismith, who heads over the line but the referee whistles for a foul on the keeper. 35' - AMEOBI SHOT Uzoenyi finds Ameobi, who takes a touch into the box and shoots well over. 42' - UCHEBO GOAL Uchebo picks up the ball in midfield, and his shot from outside the box is deflected away from McGregor and into the net. 49' - MCGREGOR SAVE The ball falls to Ameobi on the edge of the box, and his sweetlystruck shot is saved by the Scottish ‘keeper. 52' - EGWUEKE OWN GOAL - Hutton gets in behind the defence on the right, sends in a low ball, and Egwueke has
no option but to slide towards it and put it in his own goal. 86' - NWOFOR HEADER A cross from deep comes into the box, and Nwofor heads it just over the bar. 90' - NWOFOR SCORES Scotland fail to clear the ball from the box, it drops to Nwofor who takes a shot from a tight angle and squeezes a shot in at the far post. KEY STATS Two-thirds of Nigeria’s goals in World Cup qualifying came in the last 15 minutes of games, and they managed another with their equaliser in this match. Nigeria have not lost a game since January - and unbeaten in seven. Scotland are unbeaten in six matches, their best record since 2007. This was only the second time that the two sides have met.
NIGERIA coach Stephen Keshi has dismissed allegations of match-fixing following a mistake from his goalkeeper Austin Ejide against Scotland on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the Daily Telegraph reported on its website that officers from the National Crime Agency were investigating attempts to fix the match at Fulham’s Craven Cottage ground. The match went ahead despite
step up the enforcement of the zebra crossing code to protect rights of the physically challenged people and old people,“ Are said. He appealed to road users to always give consideration to physically challenged people at bus stops.
those claims, which are under police investigation, and ended in a 2-2 draw after Uche Nwofor scored a late leveller. However, an error from goalkeeper Ejide was the subject of contention after he spilled the ball into his own net, only to see the goal ruled out by referee Lee Probert for a foul by Grant Hanley. Speaking after the match, Keshi, whose side face Argentina, BosniaHerzegovina and Iran at this summer’s World Cup, said: “We did [talk about it] because it’s something ridiculous, something that we don’t know where it’s coming from. “We’re not gamblers, we are football players. I don’t even know where that is coming from, we don’t know what happened, match-fixing or no match-fixing. “This is the first time I’ve been a coach or been a player and the first time I’m hearing this, match-fixing. I don’t think it had anything to do with our build-up or the game.”
Baseball (MLB) program?me running in Nigeria from July 4 to July 6. “There will be two days coaching clinic and one day Tryout for players between 14 and 19 years. “The? players and coaches selected from this programme will represent Nigeria in the MLB Elite Camp holding in South Africa in December this year,” it said. ? The statement, however, said the secretariat would announce the venue for the Clinic/Try-out before ?June 4, adding that four states were bidding to host the MLB? programme. It stated that a committee headed by the NBSA scribe had
been appointed to look into the bids of all the states interested to host the league.? ? Kwara, Lagos, Oyo and Rivers states have indicated interest to host the league, the statement added.? ? It said support had also been coming to NBSA to ensure a successful programme with the MLB this year. The statement said that more players would be? selected for the elite camp for the competition in South Africa.? ? “The support may lead to more Nigerian players being selected to go to South Africa for the elite camp unlike in the past,” it said.
Keshi Dismisses Match-Fixing
Physically Challenged Athletes Want Enforcement At Zebra Crossings
SOME physically challenged athletes in Lagos on Wednesday appealed to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and other security agents to increase law enforcement at zebra crossings in the state. there. They told newsmen that “Motorists should always motorists rarely give way to observe zebra crossing code pedestrians at the zebra there,” she said. crossings, which endangered Mr Ajudua Lucky, another their lives. physically challenged athlete, A physically challenged expressed his disappointment athlete, Miss Tura Ali, told that both commercial drivers newsmen that there had been no and car owners fail to observe efforts from law enforcement the rule. agents to enforce compliance “If the low literacy level of by motorists. the commercial drivers does “If you step on the road at any not allow them to respect the point where you have the zebra code, what of the learned crossing sign and you are not corporate people passing careful, you will be crushed without respecting zebra because no motorist is obeying crossing code? it. “ It is painful that our society “Just last week, one of us was is just being cruel to the nearly crushed to death by a physically challenged motorist in front of the National individuals, I feel so bad about Stadium, Surulere,“ she said. it. Ali noted that the stadium “Do we have to stay at home played host to many physically because of the fear of crossing challenged athletes daily the roads when we need to go because of the training facilities out in search of our daily
bread?’’ Similarly, Mr Lekan Samuel said that motorists were usually in a hurry not minding the pedestrians standing at the zebra crossings. “ Because of the danger of crossing to the stadium, I hire the services of ‘Keke Marwa’ (tricycle) to cross the road every day I come for training,“ he said. Mr Chimobi Michael, another physically challenged athlete who also works as a bus conductor, told NAN that he derived joy in helping people with disabilities on the road. “Each time I come across them, I stop my driver to give them a ride to the bus stop nearest to their destination or aid them to cross the road,“ Michael said. Mr Feyisetan Are, the Technical Director, Nigeria Para-Powerlifting Federation,(NPLF) condemned motorists’ failure to lend helping hands to special
people on the roads. “You do not expect physically challenged athletes to cross the road like the able bodied, as many of them are on crutches, artificial legs and wheel chairs. “The government ought to
MLB Kicks Off On July 4
THE President of Nigerian Baseball and Softball Association (NBSA), Jani Ibrahim, on Wednesday said the Major League? Baseball (MLB), would kick off from July 4 to July 6. ? This was contained in a statement by NBSA SecretaryGeneral, Kehinde Laniyan. It urged all baseball clubs in the country to be fully prepared for the league.? ? According to the statement, two days will be set aside for coaching clinic with a day Tryout for players between ages 14 to 19?. ? ? “I wish to inform all baseball clubs in Nigeria to prepare fully once again for the Major League
CMYK
The Media And The War
Against Malnutrition BASHIRAT Saliu, a twoyear-old patient of Children Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, needs no introduction to visitors at the hospital’s emergency unit. The girl, who is she is suffering from acute malnutrition, looks frail, skinny and she could barely sit on her own without the aid of her mother. However, Bashirat’s mother is always willing to tell any inquisitive person that her daughter’s health condition worsened just about 14 months ago. But the girl’s condition aptly reflects the plight of several other malnourished children, as malnutrition has increasingly turned out to be a serious health problem in Nigeria. Malnutrition has been a major health challenge facing the country and efforts to tackle it require the collaboration of the government, its agencies and private sector organisations. Dr Florence Oni, the Nutrition Specialist, UNICEF Office in Kaduna State, stressed that malnutrition accounted for over 50 per cent of underfive mortality rate, adding that five of every 10 deaths of under-five children were caused by malnutrition. She said that malnutrition was directly responsible for the death of more than 300,000 under-five children every year in developing countries, while contributing indirectly to over half of all children’s deaths worldwide. She said that the physical symptoms of malnutrition in children included red hair, enlargement of the head, swollen stomach and tiny legs. She, however, conceded that a lot of people did not have access to basic information regarding nutrition issues, adding that the development was somewhat responsible for the rising cases of malnutrition-induced deaths. Oni said that the causes of malnutrition included
inadequate dietary intake, insufficient household security, inadequate maternal and child care, insufficient health services and unhealthy environment. She, nonetheless, underscored the need for the citizens to have access to basic information on different aspects of nutrition, irrespective of their social standing. However, Oni stressed that journalists had a vital role to play in promoting the “We are what we eat’’ campaign. The UNICEF nutrition specialist noted that worstaffected areas in Nigeria in terms of malnutrition were located in the North-West geopolitical zone of the country; attributing this to poor feeding patterns. Nevertheless, Oni underscored the importance of exclusive breastfeeding in efforts to arrest malnutrition, adding that breastfeeding of infants for six months exclusively was necessary in plans to stem child mortality. She said that exclusive breastfeeding could also facilitate the disengagement of umbilical cord stumps from babies, weeks after birth. Besides, Oni said that exclusive breastfeeding would forge a closer bond between mother and child, adding that it would also make the child more intelligent and friendly, while reinforcing the baby’s language acquisition ability. The UNICEF nutrition expert said that exclusive breastfeeding reduced child mortality by 13 per cent, adding, however, that child mortality was higher in rural areas due to the paucity of good health care facilities in rural neighbourhoods. Oni urged the media to become more involved in efforts to sensitise the people to the dangers of malnutrition and how to address them. Sharing similar sentiments, Hajia Tamani Yusuf, the Managing Director of Kaduna State Broadcasting Corporation, said that over half of all child deaths could be associated with malnutrition, which usually weakened the body’s resistance to illness. She also said that poor diet, frequent illness, and inadequate or inattentive care of young children could lead to malnutrition.
“If a woman is malnourished during pregnancy, or if her child is malnourished during the first two years of life, the child’s physical and mental growth may be slowed. “This cannot be rectified when the child is older; it will definitely affect the child for the rest of his or her life,”
and improved feeding practices in households would play a critical role in plans to improve child nutrition. Yusuf said that pragmatic efforts should be made to address salient health issues such as women’s wellbeing, care of pregnant mothers and under-two children, breastfeeding, balanced nutrition, maternal and child health, as well as routine
By FEMI OGUNSHOLA Corporation, underscored the need for a greater collaboration between UNICEF and the media in the campaign against malnutrition and in efforts to promote the children’s wellbeing. He noted that UNICEF had an institutionalised
Labaran Maku, Minister of Information
she said. “Children have the right to a caring, protective environment and to nutritious food and basic health care, so as to protect them from illness, while promoting their healthy living and development,’’ she added. Yusuf, nonetheless, conceded that malnutrition in children could not be entirely blamed on food intake. She stressed that malnutrition could also be caused by lack of access to health services, lack of quality of health care for pregnant women and newborns as well as unhygienic practices. She, however, argued that girls faced greater risks of contracting malnutrition than boys because of certain societal factors. Yusuf said that malnutrition in children and women was one of the greatest health challenges facing the northern parts of the country, stressing that malnutrition was a major threat to the survival and growth of children. She, however, said that increased public awareness
immunisation. She stressed that media had a great role to play in the fight against malnutrition, adding that journalists, as part of their agenda-setting roles, should strive to promote the evolution of a healthier, hunger-free and educated society. She said that designed media activities should be targeted at educating families about the benefits of routine immunisation and sound health practices, as part of efforts to prevent malnutrition and other child diseases. She, however, said that the country’s policy leaders should also be aware of the importance of nutrition to the nation’s socio-economic development. Yusuf stressed that the media should be particularly involved in efforts to monitor nutritional status of pregnant and lactating women, adding that reports should also be written on topics like motherto-child HIV transmission through breastfeeding. However, Alhaji Abdullateef Adebowale, the General Manager of Kwara State Broadcasting
framework and master plan which could promote quality health care delivery for children, particularly those in the rural areas. Adebowale said that UNICEF should initiate pragmatic strategies aimed at garnering media support for the campaign against malnutrition which would entail the production of evidence-based video clips and reports. Mr Tunji Morounfayo, Kwara State’s Commissioner for Information, said that the state government was currently working on the improvement of some child survival programmes. He said that the state, nonetheless, required the support of the media in its efforts to win the war against malnutrition. He said that in spite of its dwindling monthly allocations from the Federation Account, the Kwara State Government was doing well in the children’s immunisation and anti-malnutrition campaign, adding that it was also providing adequate child care
services. All the same, Dr Folorunsho Abimbola, the Director of Primary Health Care (PHC), stressed that a baby ought to be breastfed immediately after birth, adding that such practice would boost the baby’s immunity. She attributed most of the malnutrition cases to ignorance and wrong practices. She, however, stressed the need for training and retraining of health workers, adding that adequate funds should also be made available for staff training and programmes’ monitoring However, Malam Rabiu Musa, the Communication Officer of UNICEF, Kaduna Field Office, underscored the need for the inclusion of journalists in all the states’ taskforces set up to handle the campaign against malnutrition. He, nonetheless, solicited the renewed commitment of media executives to the campaign against malnutrition across the country. Alhaji Hameed Adio, the General Manager, Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Abuja, urged UNICEF to encourage state governments to always involve media executives in their campaign against malnutrition. He added that adequate funds should also be set aside for the media aspect of the campaign. All the same, Dr Ahmed Oladimeji of the Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, stressed the need for increased and sustained media activity in efforts to mobilise the citizens to partake in routine immunisation activities. “This is because some educated people, who are supposed to be more knowledgeable, do not allow immunisation officers to come into their houses. “I can remember a case involving the child of welleducated couple, whose death was caused by malnutrition in spite her parents’ level of education. “Therein lies the wisdom in strengthening the media input in the campaign against malnutrition,’’ he said. (NAN).
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