CMYK
The Sunday
PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968
POLITICS & ISSUES
Pgs. 16/17
National Dialogue
What We Must Talk About
• Vol. XI NO. 4,018 • SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13, 20 13 • N 100.00
MOTHERHOOL Giving Your Child A Name Pg. 14
Delta Central Senatorial Election
APC Accuses PDP Of Intimidation By BETTY IDIALU
THE Senatorial bye-election in Delta Central Senatorial District has been largely peaceful, but not devoid of rancour, protest and snatching of Ballot Boxes. Deputy Governor of the There were complaints state, Prof. Amos Utuama, of late arrival of electoral who cast his vote in his materials and personnel in village of Otu-Jeremi at some areas.
1:05 yesterday, expressed satisfaction with the election and he described the delay in the distribution of materials as “typically Nigerian” where take-offs are never smooth but the process ends well at last. He attributed the delay of
distribution of materials to an earlier protest by some National Youth Service Corps members engaged by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over alleged unpaid allowances. That was later resolved.
There were allegations of thumb-printing of ballot papers in the homes of some political leaders in parts of the district. Voting was alleged to have been done overnight in the village of a particular Continues on pg.2
• Christabel Ekehi
ODD NEWS
• Ballot box
Pg. 6
Meet The Man Who Had Sex With Cars
NEWS SSANU Suspends Strike, Says FG Complied With Its Demands THE Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has announced the suspension of its week-long strike. The suspension of the strike is contained in a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the association’s National Secretary, Mr Promise Adewusi. It said that the decision to suspend the strike was informed by the Federal Government’s compliance with the association’s demands. “Following substantial
compliance to our demand for the payment of August and September salaries of our members which is the reason for our current national strike action, we hereby suspend the strike and direct all our members to return to their duties with effect from Monday, the 14th of October, 2013.” The statement thanked members of the association for their solidarity, adding that the non payment of the salaries of its members for work done would not happen again.
NERC Wants PHCN Successors To Prioritise Customers’ Meters
the external factors were almost beyond policy control, but that the current stable rating would be upgraded if the current fiscal and monetary policies were maintained and institutions further strengthened. Sanusi said that for Nigeria to have retained its rating of BB, at a time countries such as the United States had its rating downgraded, showed that the Nigerian economy was being managed very well.
THE Chairman of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr Sam Amadi, has urged the PHCN successor companies to make the provision of meters to customers a priority. Amadi made the call at a twoday workshop organised in Abuja by NERC to sensitise the successor companies and other stakeholders on the draft interim rules and other regulatory issues. “The new PHCN successor companies should see provision of meter for all their customers as a major priority to avoid bills estimation,’’ he said. Amadi said the idea of the successor companies continuing with bills estimation would not be tolerated, noting that it would
to cast seven stones at the symbols of Satan. “This ceremony of casting stones was performed from the days of Prophet Ibrahim,’’ the scholar said. Another scholar, Alhaji Abdullahi Abdulraheem, urged Muslims to pray for peace and economic prosperity in the country during the festival. Abdulraheem noted that without
the citizens’ cooperation, government could not achieve its mandate of ensuring safety of lives and economic development of the country. He urged Muslims to support the government morally and spiritually to enable it deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians irrespective of tribes or religions.
President Goodluck Jonathan at the Extra Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa weekend.
Standard And Poors Rates Nigerian Economy Strong, Stable
THE Standard and Poors, an international rating agency, has said that Nigerian economy remains strong with a stable macro-economic outlook The Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, disclosed this at a joint press briefing with the Central Bank Governor, Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. The briefing was held at the Annual Meeting of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in Washington DC. OkonjoIweala, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, said that the rating had also confirmed the Fitch rating in 2012, which put Nigerian economy in the positive light. “We have the outcome of the 2013 rating which is a very positive one; the rating confirms the ongoing rating stance which is BB minus with a stable outlook. “So, they have confirmed that rating we had last year stands, which means that many positive things are happening in this economy. “They have also acknowledged the challenges we have of course and they have looked at those, but the summary is that in spite of these challenges, they think that the Nigerian economy is strong and the macroeconomic indicators strong. ‘‘The monetary policy and fiscal stance are strong enough for us to maintain a very good rating we had before,’’ she said. On the fiscal side, she said that the rating agency said Nigeria’s GDP growth remains strong in
2013 through 2016 buoyed by non-oil sector growth. She said the rating agency noted that Nigeria’s debt stock remained relatively low while foreign reserves remained strong. “The agency also views the economy positively in the light of the redeemed N1.7 trillion NonPerforming Loans purchased by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON), which will be
finally written off its books.” Standard and Poor’s, equally views non-oil sector development, especially growth in agriculture, retail, telecoms and power as positive. Commenting, Sanusi said the agency’s assessment of the Nigerian economy aligns with the difficult global economic environment, which had seen countries like the United States being downgraded. Sanusi said
Eid-el-kabir: Clerics Urge Muslims To Pray SOME Islamic scholars, has urged Muslims to use the EidFor Nation, Give Charity el-kabir period to assist the needy and pray for peace and economic prosperity in the country. The scholars, who gave the advice in separate interviews with newsmen in Abuja, stressed the importance of the festival, which is sacrifice and charity. According to, Alhaji Mufutaudeen Ajijola-Anabi, the Chief Imam, Dairat Jafariyat Fitorikat Tijaniyat Islamic Organisation, Abuja branch, Eid-el-kabir means the feast of sacrifice, which is celebrated on the 10th day of the month of Dhul-Hijjah. “The Eid-el-kabir festival is an important religious festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide to honour the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son,
Ismail, as an act of submission to God’s command “Muslims all over the world will begin the festival with prayers at various praying grounds after which, they will slaughter rams and share the meat to the poor.’’ The scholar urged Muslims to emulate prophet Ibrahim’s submission to Allah’s command by sharing what they have with the poor, in order to get reward from God. Alhaji Sholiu Ibrahim, an Islamic scholar, described the festival as a ceremony during which every Muslim should resolve never to succumb to temptations. “That is why the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, after offering their prayers at Muzdalifah, proceed to the local of the three pillars
Delta Central Senatorial Election Continued from pg.1 candidate. Of a truth, no voting went on there. A ballot box meant for a unit in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area was also alleged to be missing in transit. As at the time of filing this report, collation had already commenced in some centres. The bye-election is to fill the vacancy created by the death of Senator Pius Ewherido on June 30, 2013 in the Senate. Ewherido was the only Senator in the Upper House on
the ticket of the Democratic Peoples Party. Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of using security agents to intimidate voters while preventing voting materials from reaching polling units in opposition strongholds during Saturday’s bye-election in the Delta Central Senatorial district. In a statement issued in Lagos on Saturday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said reports from its agents
on the field indicate that armed soldiers and policemen were deployed strategically to intimidate voters, while trailers and tankers were used to block the roads leading to opposition strongholds, thereby preventing voting materials from reaching there. ”Worst-hit areas are Ughelli North; Udu and Uvwie Local Governments, which are the strongholds of the APC. Also, several Hilux vehicles loaded with armed soldiers were sent to Okpe Local Government Continues on pg. 9
not be beneficial to the customers. He said that in the new power reform agenda, both the accounts of the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and the customers should be balanced and maintained. He said that providing meters for all customers would enable them to monitor their energy usage as well as allow the DISCOs to determine how much revenue they could realise. Amadi said that the more customers DISCOs give meters, the more revenue they would generate, noting that DISCOS would be able to determine the exact number of customers they have from the meters issued. He said the Multi-Year-Tariff-Order 2 of the Nigeria Electricity Power Sector Reform Act, 2005, provided money to DISCOs for losses incurred in the metering of customers. The NERC chairman gave assurance that the commission would fix a date to determine the timeline DISCOs would be given to ensure the provision of meters to all their customers. Amadi said previously, 18 months was given to the PHCN to meter all their customers, but PHCN could not complete the exercise.
Eid-El-Kabir: Ram Sellers Decry Low Patronage In Edo RAM sellers in Edo have lamented low patronage, barely three days to the Eidel-Kabir festival. Some of them who spoke to newsmen in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, attributed the development to the prevailing harsh economic situation in the country. Alhaji Usman Adamu, a ram seller in Jettu market, blamed the low patronage on cash squeeze in the country. “Our customers that used to buy our rams, tell us that they don’t have money, while the civil servants are telling us that salary has not been paid. “Last year, we made a lot of sales due to the
early payment of salaries to workers, but this year, the customers are complaining of lack of money,’’ he said. Adamu appealed to the government to pay salaries ahead of Sallah, to enable Muslims buy the rams. Another ram seller at Aviele market, Malam Kabiru Sado, said that during past festivities, he was selling an average of 20 rams daily, lamenting that this year, he could hardly sell four per day. “I used to sell up to 25 rams in a day because people came from other neighbouring villages to buy, but now, I hardly sell four as the buyers complain of lack of money,’’ he said. It was
gathered that a big ram costs N100,000; an average one, N55,000, while a small ram sells for N35,000. Francis Oladosu, said a big ram, which cost about N80,000 few weeks ago, now attracts between N90,000 and N95,000. Oladosu said the price of medium size ram rose from about N50,000, to N60,000, while small rams that sold for N18,000 each , now cost N20,000. He blamed the hike on the prevailing security challenges in some parts of the Northern states and the increase in the cost of transportation.
NEWS ANALYSIS
Oil Subsidy Expectations And National Dialogue LET us not be deceived by detractors who never see anything good in our nation. We have so many prophets of doom, all they want to hear or see is the negative rather than the positive. They have become so used to believing that nothing good can come out of Nigeria. It is such set of people who will shout wolf where there is non and they are self appointed arm chair critics of everything under the sun apparently to be visible and attract some patronage to themselves. Those who hold the views that Nigeria is heading for breakup, should rather occupy themselves with something productive. Even when Mr. President has decided to convene a national dialogue, some are kicking against it, saying it is deceptive. Trust Nigerians, the polity is better when there is tension and when there seems to be
some level of sanity, they go into the workshops to dig out something explosive that will draw attention and concentration while it last. They want to make a mountain out of every opportunity in such a way that you can see their clandestine motive. While President Jonathan who apparently has seen the merit in convening a talk shop, even when Nigerians are tired of talking, beats his chest over the decision described as a milestone, some see such moves as self serving. The Presidency is of the view that the conference should be an opportunity to engage Nigerians on robust discussions on a new constitution and they are been urged to utilize this limited platform offered by President Goodluck Jonathan. It has however been observed that the problem with Nigeria may not
By EUBALDUS ENAHORO necessarily be the constitution but the characters who implement the constitution. It is yet to be comprehended if a new constitution will be operated by people from the moon or some other planets. We can talk as much as we want and we have been talking, but the fear been expressed by those opposed to the idea is that it may just be another jamboree where some selected Nigerians will further be empowered. Though it is said that Nigerians have a short memory, because not quite long ago, several decisions towards alleviating the plight of majority of the people have been taken and yet the situation is getting worse. This may not be true for some, but it is obvious that majority of Nigerians who are entitled to a better life cannot boast of that even
when the Creator Almighty has provided in abundance for them. When decisions are taken for the good of all, the people become expectant but as time goes on, the so called dividend becomes an illusion. It was with fanfare and optimism that Nigerians expected the wind fall from oil subsidy. They were assured that the removal of oil subsidy by the Federal Government will benefit them and there was jubilation across the land. But today what they have got and seen is not comparable to their expectation For example, it was disclosed that the road sector will be maximally improved because the government will be saving N1.1 trillion being paid yearly as subsidy and they will see what the government is spending money on in the country. We were told that if the
government withdraws subsidy, N1.1 trillion will be free and it will be devoted to capital projects. The share of that money to the federal government, which comes to a little close to N600 billion is expected to be used in various sectors and the major beneficiary will be the completion of those dual carriage ways, like the Shagamu-Ore-Benin road which will be completed, as well as the Abuja- Lokoja road noted for the highest accident rate in the country. We were also told that the road from Onitsha to Enugu and on to Portharcourt dual carriageway as well as the second Niger bridge will be c o m p l e t e d . Apart from the major transformation we expect to see in the road sector we were told Nigerians will benefit in the area of child and maternal health, which will consume a lot of these subsidy and the rail transportation system will be rehabilitated completely.
More importantly, Nigerians were informed that the government will be able to invest in building three new refineries in the country with the removal of subsidy, which will be beneficial to them as it will reduce travel time and reduce the rate of accidents on these roads. The removal of subsidy will also help to ensure that the people spend minimally on the maintenance of vehicles, because when they drive through a bad road, their vehicles have a lot of mechanical problems, but with good roads all that are eliminated. These are some of the benefits which they used to convince the people, but have we seen them on the ground yet or we are only earmarking them as the Comrade Governor of Edo State will say. This is the frustration which Nigerians have been used to all along and we only hope the conference will not go the same way.
Documentary And Preservation Of Intangible Heritage: Continued from last week THEREFORE, museum as a repository for curiosities of the past is saddled with the task of documenting intangible heritage. Needless to further point out that it is highly difficult for museums to offer visual interpretation of intangible collections. However, this has to be carried out in an informal, voluntary, recreational participatory and friendly manner. This should be supported by sound research, object (intangible) examination, analysis and evaluation. These intangible materials or collections should have the potentials to provoke an emotional and physical involvement of the museum visitors or audience as the case maybe and together with other exhibitions aids, to impart a deeper understanding and appreciation of the past and present. The influence of these should be useful enough in promoting some desirable behavior in the society. It should as a matter of fact eradicate the thought of our ancestors as uncivilized which has been coined by the interactions from the Europeans and Americans of our great nations (Africa). Before I continue, one should asked, what constitutes intangible heritage. Primarily they are music and songs, dance, drama with subdivision as oral poetry, prose, folklore, folksongs, idioms, proverbs,
The Task Before Museums riddles and styles which has only one medium of expression “language”. Music is said to be the universal language of mankind everyone savour the flavor of music. It has caught a higher pace than any virtue I know. Therefore, inherited traditional Africa music which seems to be forgotten or relegated to the backdrop could be documented by museum documentation department, transmitted into modern disc and cassette to be viewed by continuous generations. (Visitors) Singing songs of derision is one of the ways Africa society takes to maintain a spiritually healthy community. It will be a very great influence on the new generations. Music and songs are arch-reformers, archeradicator, arch-persuader and arch-dissuader. Music hastens the “sun to its setting and to its rising” it is the sweetest reproach an innocuous satire could have. Songs are even more effective than laws. Meanwhile, dance is stylized and structured movement in time-space. In its traditional context, and in the context of this discussion, it also includes mime, gymnastics and acrobatic structured to or orchestrated by music. Dance is not only entertainment based. Dance and dancing is live-exhibition which could be presented to
By GETRUDE L.WASA
the people as a significant or figurative mode of communicating or promoting dramatic intentions. When assess, it should be accepted primarily. For its entertainment – educational value. Hence dance could play the role of a corrective measure for most teaming youths going astray in developing the EuroAmerican culture and style of dancing to the negligence of our rich and meaningful dance style that is packed full of messages. The way you clap your hands when dancing is important in our culture up to the shaking of one’s bombom as well as the exposure of your body line. So let us be careful in showcasing these art to promote our heritage for the good of our generations yet unborn. The next point is drama. This is very rich with intangible materials. Drama is a theatre scenario. It is a physical environment for presenting an artistic display. It has the psychological and emotional, rapport between the performers and the audience. The traditional drama goes beyond makebelieve. There is a greater psycho-spiritual attachment in the art of drama. Thus, drama which is interwoven in songs dance language spoken is a
specialized creativeinterpretative process or mode of fraternizing with the forces and effect of nature. It is a system of complimenting life. Inspite of the availability of modern technologies in terms of information transfer, there is still a dilemma of transmission or transfer of documented drama to our younger generations. The reason behind this is that most of us in the culture sector want to modernize our activities of the past to suit the present age. This is a very wrong approach to the issue at hand. On the other hand, a dilemma of transition could result from a case of calculated cultural brainwashing whereby the natural cultural-artistic sensibilities of a person or a group are systematically undermined and sub-planted by foreign cultural perceptions. Such resurgence could bring about crises of identity. There should be a guidepost in documenting intangible heritage through the practices self - generated evolution and some consideration centred around quality and relevance. It has to be authentic, sophisticated to forage a complete reference point to our social, political, economic, cultural and historical pursuits. This will certainly undermine and
suppress the present foreign cultural perceptions, such as Africans (Nigerians) have a very dull culture and that “we” borrowed from the Europeans. This can only be achieved through the availability of practical samples in the museums. The best method to be adopted in documenting intangible materials therefore is music, dance in drama based on our traditional model, it should be that ideational and structural relevance to the dramatic intention. Music and dance should be synthesized and symbiotic factors conceived for projecting and propelling the plot or used to sustain dramatic action or enhance the dramatic presence of an actor, location, or evoke a psychological moment. The production of traditional composition techniques should focus on mood music to establish the atmosphere, maybe the location, scenario and so on. The documentation should involve the use of “Folk” mythological drama for example, the traditional society which embrace the supernatural as well as such unrecorded but dynamic role of the fraternity of itinerant warriors, battle camps, traditional court, myths, legends, stories, poetry, prose, riddles, jokes proverbs, idiomatic expression, manners or ways of greeting
elders (morning afternoon and evening) and responses should be well captured in the series. Moreso, there should be supernatural theme through vocal – orchestral recitative mime, sketches and songs theme of love and wars or hatred. Every documentation must be put on stage (theatre) and it must reflect the actual past but must be translated in order to make communication flows. Above all it should be recommended to the authority of the National Commission for museums and monuments that a separate exhibition of an open museum should be established to accomplish this mission of transforming our rich intangible heritage to the entire world. In addition, educational outreach programmes should as a matter of urgency be organized for schools, both primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. It is to inculcate in them personal values. The museums should be able to carry out in all of these the functions of informing, educating and entertaining its public to the maximum. I tell you, word of mouth can change Nigeria to be a better place. Indeed, there is an urgent need to do a radical documentation of our valuable intangible heritage for posterity, which will no doubt bring about corporate identity and foster unity for us all.
NEWS FRSC Zone RS5 Step Up Safety special operation. By NDIDI OJIEH He harped on the need for Campaign THE Federal Road Safety the Corps to embark on
Hon. Ikunzuwa (right) receiving a plaque from Lawrence Omajinobi.
Corps (FRSC), Zone RS5 comprising Edo, Delta and Anambra States will from today, October 13, 2013 commence special operation on major roads across the Zone. Addressing Sector Commanders and Unit Commanders at the monthly Zonal Operator’s meeting in Benin City recently, the Zonal Commanding Officer, Nseobong Akpabio charged all staff to be firm and not to compromise in the discharge of their duties during this ember months period. He said the special operation would focus on speed limit, dangerous driving, use of phones while driving, seat belt violation and
Hon Okunzuwa Bags ‘Man Of The Year’ Award
THE Member representing Orhionmwon Local Government Area on the Board of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission, Hon. Fidelis Okunzuwa, has won the “Law Students Association of the faculty of law, National Open University, Benin study centres’ ‘Man of the year award 2012.’ Speaking while presenting the award to the awardee, the President of the association, Lawrence Omajinobi who led other members of the association during the presentation ceremony said the choice of Hon. Fidelis Okunzuwa among others was based on his track record of achievements. Mr. Lawrence Omajinobi said the association has taken it’s time to monitor the over 48 projects going on at the same time in Orhionmwon Local Government Area under the supervision of Hon. Fidelis Okunzuwa as the member representing Orhionmwon Local Government on the Board
of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission out of which over twenty are ready for Commissioning and sued for it’s sustenance. Mr. Lawrence Omajinobi called on other good spirited individuals and organizations
to emulate the developmental strides of the EDSOPADEC member in order to fast-track the laudable achievements of the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as Governor of
seed multiplication and production programme in its effort to achieve the Agriculture Component of the Transformation Agenda. This is contained in a statement signed by the company’s Regional Manager, Mr. Pankaj Chawla, and made available to SUNDAY OBSERVER in Abuja. The company attributed the success to its collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to boost cotton and rice production.
successfully implementing an extensive seed multiplication and production programme for cotton to achieve the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) goals. It said that under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative, WACOT embarked on cotton seed multiplication programme in two major cotton producing states in the North. “While Katsina is the principal cotton growing state, WACOT is also engaged in supporting cotton cultivation in Gombe.
State Government will continue to improve on the enabling environment already provided. Commissioner Obasuke called on would be investors within and outside the country to come over to the state for their investment, adding that the necessary incentives have been put in place by the State Government in this direction. The Commerce and Industry Commissioner urged the company’s management to ensure compliance with the rules and regulations for the establishment of the company. The Public Relations Officer of the company, Mr. Sparklee said over hundred persons have been employed by the company, stressing that some of those employed were sponsored to a training course to equip them with the necessary skills needed to operate the machines. He thanked the State Government for creating the
“In the last season in 2012 which was the first year under the project, WACOT registered 3,000 farmers with 13,000 hectares under cotton cultivation. “In the current season, the area has expanded to 19,000 hectares involving 5,000 farmers in 10 Local Government Areas in Katsina and Gombe States.” It added that the cotton growers had been grouped into clusters in the target states, adding that a total of 70 cooperatives had been registered. The statement said that in a bid to attain food security, employment and boost farmers’ incomes, the company was also engaged in the incorporated
Barrister Macdonald Obasuke, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry
intensive patrol operation, capacity building, robust public enlightenment, research and development in order to attain better result. The Zonal Commanding Officer stressed the need for all the commanders to collaborate with the media in order to transmit the core objective of the FRSC to the public, particularly road users. He warned road users to adhere strictly to road traffic rules and regulations, adding that violators would be severely sanctioned.
Lar: Strong Advocate Of
Peace, Unity Of Nigeria
THE peace and unity of Nigeria was of great concern to Late Chief Solomon Lar, until his death, the daughter, Beni said in Abuja recently. “Daddy’s concern is that Nigerians should live in unity and peace,’’ Beni, a member of the House of Representative, said. Beni made the disclosure when Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, the PDP National Chairman, led the
Cotton Company Records Success In Seed THE West African Cotton value chain identified under the According to the statement, Limited (WACOT) says it has ATA. Production the company has been recorded success in the cotton “Rice, maize, soybean and
Recycling Plant Established In opportunity for the company EDO State Government has Edo State to be sited in the state. set the stage for industrial evolution and employment generation with the sitting of a recycling plant in the state. Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Barrister Macdonald Obasuke stated this in Benin City when he led top officials of the Ministry on a guided visit to a recycling plant established by Chinese experts. The commissioner expressed optimism in the determination of the Governor Oshiomhole’s led administration to low investors to the state, pointing out that by so doing the problems associated with unemployment such as kidnapping, armed robbery and other societal vices will be minimized if not completely eradicated. The Commerce and Industry ministry boss lauded the initiative of the Chinese experts at sitting the factory in the state. He assured the management of the steel company that the
Edo State. On his part Hon. Fidelis Okunzuwa said the award is a wake up call on him to redouble his efforts at developing the Oil and Gas Producing Local Government Areas of the state especially Orhionmwon Local Government Area.
wrongful overtaking among other road traffic offences. He disclosed that patrol vehicles would be deployed to some major roads which are prone to road crashes, while the officers are expected to run three shifts on a daily basis. Commander Akpabio listed the Benin-Asaba, Benin – Auchi-Okene, Benin-Ore, Benin-Ughelli-Patani, Onitsha- Owerri, OnitshaAkwa-Enugu as some of the roads that are prone to road accidents and which would be effectively covered during the
sesame seeds are some of the crops it has helped developed. “In response to the high priority to attaining selfsufficiency in rice production in Nigeria, WACOT has collaborated with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture by embarking on seed production programme for rice in Kano and Niger states. “The company has registered 1, 400 farmers with 2,300 hectares. “Availability of quality seeds is a prerequisite to boosting Nigeria’s rice production. “The company has deployed a team of highly qualified plant breeders and agronomists to monitor the seed production programme and undertake capacity building at farm level. “Foundation seed, along with fertiliser and agro- chemicals were supplied to the registered out growers,” the statement said. It also said that 60 large-scale farmers in Funtua, Kaduna State, had been registered for maize and soya beans seed production programme which would be spread on over 4,000 hectares. The statement also explained that WACOT partnered with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to produce quality and certified seeds to be given to farmers. It added that foundation seeds, fertiliser and agro-chemicals were also made available to farmers. Ii will be recalled that in 2012, WACOT said it would support cotton farmers in some northern states with seeds and agrochemicals, to boost cotton production. The company also said that it would supply agricultural inputs, process the raw produce and market for domestic consumption and export.
-Daughter
party’s National Working Committee (NWC) on a condolence visit to Lar‘s family in Abuja. She maintained that her father was a great leader and a politician with great repute who had great ideology. “Though we all grieved today, we pray God to raise more leaders that will have the kind of philosophy he had for Nigeria,’’ she said. Earlier, Tukur, the PDP National Chairman said that the late Lar was a great politician and an emancipator of the downtrodden. Tukur wrote on the condolence register at the Lar‘s resident that; “the nation has lost a great leader and an emancipator of the downtrodden masses. “He was the light in the firmament of politics’’. Tukur said that Lar was a close friend and a political associate and one among those who openly challenged the military during the military era. He further said that the Lar was among those who “midwife’’ the formation of the PDP and led the party to victory in 1999. Meanwhile, Mr. Danladi Wuyep, a Special Assistant to late Lar, prayed that the elder statesman’s death will bring lasting peace to the PDP and Nigeria in general. Wuyep, who was Lar‘s special assistant for many years, described him as a detribalised politician, who always preached peace, unity and godliness. He added that even on his sick bed, the late Lar was worried about the current crisis rocking the PDP and had always prayed that enduring peace and unity was enthroned in the party. A former Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ibrahim Mantu, in the condolence register wrote that: “death has snatched from the political class one of the greatest leader of our time. “He was a committed democrat and exemplary leader.’’ Also, a former Minister of Aviation, Hassan Hyat, has urged Nigerians to celebrate its good people while they are alive. “We must learn, as a people, to celebrate our heroes and good leaders, Hyat told newsmen when he reacted to the death of Lar, in Jos.
FOREIGN NEWS France Wants Action On Central Africa ‘Sectarian Poison’ FRANCE’S foreign minister heads to the Central African Republic (CAR) today aiming to drum up international interest for a largely forgotten crisis that risks dragging Paris into a new military intervention in one of its former colonies. The nation has descended into chaos since mostly Muslim Seleka rebels ousted President Francois Bozize in March, the latest coup in the country that remains one of the world’s poorest despite resources ranging from gold to uranium. France has urged world and regional powers not to ignore a conflict that has already seen more than 400,000 people driven from their homes by acts of violence such as murder and rape. Paris is reluctant to be left to
deal with another African hotspot after it felt allies such as the United States were hesitant to help it halt a rebel advance by al Qaeda-linked insurgents in Mali earlier this year. “There is an explosive cocktail in CAR and we fear this country will become a magnet for all the armed groups in the region,” a French diplomatic source said ahead of Laurent Fabius’ trip to the capital Bangui, the first by a French foreign minister in more than 10 years. While CAR is rich in minerals, that wealth is largely unexploited thanks to decades of instability and the spillover from conflicts in larger neighbors including Sudan to
the east and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the south. Mercenaries from Chad and Sudan already form a large portion of Seleka rebels. Janjaweed Arab fighters from Darfur are present. Members of the rebel Lord’s Resistance Army, which Uganda accuses Khartoum of backing, have set up in the country. CAR is geographically at the center of what some strategists have called an “arc of insecurity” involving Islamic militants and stretching from Kenya and Somalia in eastern Africa to Mauritania in the west. The power vacuum in CAR is paving the way for al Qaedalinked Islamists ousted from Mali, while lawlessness in north Cameroon is opening a route to CAR for Nigeria’s Boko Haram.
People look at a damaged car outside the Swedish consulate after a car bomb explosion in Benghazi on Friday
Car Bomb At Swedish Consulate In A car bomb exploded outside Libya’s Benghazi the Swedish consulate in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi on Friday, damaging the front of the building and nearby houses, but no casualties were immediately reported. The bomb exploded a day after Libya’s Prime Minister Ali Zeidan was briefly abducted by a group of former rebels. Nobody claimed responsibility for attack, which took place days after a U.S. special forces’ raid captured a Libyan al Qaeda suspect in Tripoli, outraging Islamist militants, who called for revenge attacks. The Swedish Foreign Ministry said none of its staff had been injured. “The facade and windows were damaged but no staff was injured. The consulate
is closed on Fridays,” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Ursula Ahlen said. Libya is deep in turmoil two years after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, with its central government and nascent army struggling to control rival militias and Islamist militants who have turned the vast North African country into a safe haven. On Thursday, former rebels now on government payroll kidnapped Zeidan from the hotel where he stays in the capital Tripoli, saying the government has been informed in advance of the U.S. raid. They later released him
unharmed after a few hours. Zeidan, who is under pressure from Islamists and ordinary Libyans for failing to deliver on public services since Gaddafi’s overthrow, avoided any criticism of his captors. To help maintain security, Libya’s government relies on militias made up of thousands of Libyans who took up arms against Gaddafi. But these rival groups have often involved into security threats themselves. This is especially true for Benghazi, where the 2011 revolt began and where the U.S. ambassador was killed during an Islamist assault on a U.S. diplomatic mission a year ago.
Death To America Chants Challenge Iran’s President’s Diplomacy
WHILE Iranian President Hassan Rouhani tries to ease friction with the United States, chants of “death to America” on Friday may deepen doubts in the West that Tehran is ready for a deal as talks on its nuclear program resume this week. Rouhani’s resounding June election victory gave him a popular mandate to reverse Iran’s confrontational foreign policy and attempt to win relief from international sanctions imposed over concerns Iran may
be seeking a nuclear weapons capability. It also won him the guarded support of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the most important power center in Iran. But conservative hardliners in the Islamic Republic’s complex political establishment have picked up on reservations expressed by Khamenei and begun a rearguard campaign to put the brakes on Rouhani’s diplomatic opening.
Debate has mounted inside Iran on the speed and extent to which the Islamic Republic should attempt to patch up its many quarrels with the West, and the United States in particular. Rouhani’s visit to the United Nations last month was capped by a telephone call from U.S. President Barack Obama, the first time the presidents of the two nations had spoken directly since the 1979 Islamic Revolution toppled the U.S.-backed shah.
E. A. ADEBOYE On Sunday
Creative Miracles MEMORISE: (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Romans 4:17 READ: John 9:1-7 other hand. However, body parts. Every car
THERE are categories of healing. Healings are gradual. In Luke 17:11-14, some lepers met the Lord and He asked them to go and show themselves to the priests and as they went they received their healing. Some healings can be instantaneous. We see an example of this in Matthew 8:13, where a leper met the Lord and confessed his faith in His ability to heal but doubted if the Lord was willing. Jesus touched him and immediately he was healed. Some healings come in form of repairs. Mark 3:1-5 talks about a man with a withered hand. When he encountered the Lord and was healed, his hand was restored like the
occasionally, there are situations beyond repairs. In today’s reading, the subject of the miraculous event did not go blind but was born blind, so there was nothing to be repaired. For him to receive sight at all, he needed a creative miracle. When part of your car cannot be repaired, it is replaced. God is One who originally created you and so if there is anything that cannot be repaired in your body, God will replace it. In Malachi 3:6, He says, “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” Hebrews 13:8 further says He is the same in spite of the nature of the universe. This means whatever He has done before, He can do again. If He created you, He also repair any of your
manufacturer equally has spare parts. Without spare parts, no car manufacturer can stay in business. Occasionally, some people import uncommon cars. Sometimes, the one who brought in the car may be the only one in a town, city or country to have that car, at least for a period. In those days such cars are called ‘One in town’. The owners of such cars are very proud as it makes them unique among a symbol of class. However, the pain of such luxury is that when a little part needs replacement it will take time to import the spare part. In some cases, the car has to be sent back to the manufacturer for repairs. Thank God your body has spares with God. Go ahead and ask for creative miracle today!
KEY POINT Father, any part of my body that is beyond repair, please replace it today by your mercy.
“God is One who originally created you and so if there is anything that cannot be repaired in your body, God will replace it.”
Meet The Man Who Had Sex With Cars Over the last 45 years Edward Smith has bedded nearly 1,000 lovers, but only one has been a person – the rest have been cars. The 62-year-old from Yelm, Washington, United States is a mechaphile – meaning he is sexually attracted to machines. His unusual conquests have included roaring Mustangs, luxury Jaguars and even attack helicopters. He said: “Some guys look at boobs and bums on beautiful women. I look at the
front and rear on beautiful cars.” Edward, who first became attracted to machines in his teens, went on to bonk hundreds of vehicles and at his peak was having sex with one a week. But his joyriding days are now over and he has committed himself to long-term lover, Vanilla, a second-hand Volkswagen Beetle he bought 30 years ago. It’s an open relationship and Edward also makes love to his 1973 Opal GT called Cinnamon and a 1193
Mother Places Baby In Washing Machine Maggie May Trammel was 10 days old when her mother, high on meth, placed her in a washing machine and turned it on and let it run for an entire cleansing cycle. By the time a relative found little Maggie, she had drowned. Maggie’s great aunt, Rhonda Coshatt, went to the home Fiddler and her two other children, 4 and 3, lived at to offer some help to the new mother. When she arrived at the house, she found her niece, Maggie’s mother, Lyndsey Fiddler, passed out on the couch. She heard a
clunking noise coming from the washing machine, as if it was unbalanced, and when she went to check what was causing it, she found little Maggie inside. Rhonda attempted to revive the baby, but it was far too late. When Fiddler came to and realized what had happened, she proceeded to accuse her aunt of murdering the little girl. When rescue workers arrived at the home, they were deeply disturbed by what they saw. Their superiors have stated this case has scarred these people for life.
Man Invents Death Watch If you’re 30 and still living with your mom, unmotivated to go out and get a job or a girlfriend, here’s a quirky but effective way to encourage you to go out and live your life while you still can – The Tikker, or “death watch” counts down how much time you have left until you kick the bucket. Remember the website that did the exact same thing? Well, this is the 2.0 portable version. Calling it “The Happiness Watch”, its inventor Fredrik Colting explains that he wanted to find a way to determine people “to cherish the time and the life that we have been given, to honor it, suck the marrow from it, seize the day and follow our hearts. And the best way to do this is to realize that seconds, days and years are passing never to come again.” Here’s how the watch works. To set up the Tikker, you first need to fill out a questionnaire with information about your medical history, weight, lifestyle details such as if you drink or smoke and how often you exercise. You are also asked to give information about any diseases that may run in your family. All these are factored in and you are given a score representing your entire
lifespan including the years you have already lived. After your current age is deducted from this score, the countdown begins. You might think you’ll get an estimation of your time of death, such as “mid-80s”, but that’s not the case – the Tikker counts down from years to seconds so that you can get a true feeling that with each passing second, you are getting closer and closer to death. Too depressing for you? The creators – “a group of designers, free-thinkers, lovers and life-aficionados” say “it’s not about how much time you HAVE, it’s what you DO with it. A week spent in love and happiness can be worth more than a year spent in agony. If you knew how much time you had left, wouldn’t you use that time wisely?” adding that “While death is nonnegotiable, life isn’t. The good news is that life is what you make of it – and oh boy can it be beautiful!” Are you sold on the concept yet? If you are and want have a Tikker of your own, you can preorder one by paying $39 for the simple black design or $1,000 for a custom one in pantone color – limited offer only. So hurry up, happiness guaranteed!
Ford Ranger called Splash. But Vanilla is ‘the one’ and Edward likes to woo the white-coloured hatchback with picnics and wine-fuelled dates. He added: “When I hold Vanilla in my arms there’s a powerful energy that comes from her. “I would say it is extremely satisfying but at times a little melancholy because I know she cannot talk to me. But overall I know she feels what I feel and its intense.” He added: “If anything was to happen to her
I would be more than heartbroken.” But Edward wasn’t always so open, and admits it was a struggle coming to terms with his feelings as a teenager. He remembers first “cuddling and kissing” a model James Bond, Aston Martin as a youngster before finally losing his virginity to a neighbour’s Volkswagen Beetle. He said: “Every kid that age awakens to their libidinal energy but with me it was a secret, intense and different to say the least. “I know some people will see it as weird but there are a lot of weird things in this world. I am not hurting anybody and I don’t intend to hurt anybody.” Edward has only slept with one woman, who he had a one-night stand with in San Francisco, but it had little impact on him. He admits to being tempted to stray sometimes but added: “I know better now than to pursue other people’s private property without permission. “I will not deny that I look at other cars on TV or at shows and still get those old impulses and desires – but those were the early days. Now I want to settle down with Vanilla.” He added: “There’s something about her that I can’t fully express on an emotional level except it’s very powerful and very sincere. “I’m never ashamed or awkward in my heart. I have never questioned myself – I just love her.”
Man Places Chastity Lock On Girl Friend If you thought chastity belts only existed in Medieval tales, think again. For more than a decade, a Mexican man locked his girlfriend’s pants shut every morning for fear that she would be unfaithful to him, according to reports. The 25-year-old woman finally alerted police late last month when she desperately needed to use the bathroom but was too afraid to cut her pants open. The woman had been living with her 40-year-old boyfriend José Antonio “N” since the age of 13 in a rural area within the state of Veracruz, according to the Mexican daily El Universal. Local authorities
say the abuse had been going on during those 12 years, that is, until the woman finally called the police for help on Sept. 28. Officers found the victim alone at home but quickly tracked down José Antonio and brought him into custody. It is reported the man not only had the key with him butconfessed to having shut his girlfriend’s pants with the metal lock. Once the girlfriend refused to press charges, however, the police were forced to let the man go after he paid a fine for a separate and minor infraction. The following day, authorities forced the man to sign a document stating he would not use the lock on the victim again.
Odd News Compiled By EJIROGHENE ONOJETA
Judge Tells Man He Is Legally Dead An Ohio man is finding out there’s no easy way to come back from the dead. Donald Miller Jr. went to court this week to ask a county judge to reverse a 1994 ruling that declared him legally dead after he had disappeared from his home eight years earlier. But the judge turned down his request, citing a three-year time limit for changing a death ruling. Hancock County Probate Court Judge Allan Davis called it a “strange, strange situation.” “We’ve got the obvious here. A man sitting in the courtroom, he appears to be in good health,” said Davis, who told Miller the three-year limit was clear. “I don’t know where that leaves you, but you’re still deceased as far as the law is concerned,” the judge said. Miller resurfaced about eight years ago and went to
court so that he could get a driver’s license and reinstate his Social Security number. His exwife had opposed the move, saying she doesn’t have the money to repay the Social Security benefits that were paid out to her and the couple’s two children after Miller was declared dead. Robin Miller said her former husband vanished because he owed big child support payments and that the overdue payments had totaled $26,000 by 1994, The (Findlay) Courier (http://bit.ly/1e5mJkr) reported. Miller, 61, who now lives in the northwest Ohio city of Fostoria, told the judge that he disappeared in the 1980s because he had lost his job and he was an alcoholic. He lived in Florida and Georgia before returning to Ohio around 2005. His parents told him about his “death” when he came back to the state, he said.
50-Year-Old Man Get Order To Show ID To Buy Alcohol A 50-year-old forklift driver was left bemused after checkout staff asked him to prove that he was over 18.Father-of-three Charles Brown, from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, had gone into his local Morrisons to buy a bottle of rum. The youthfullooking dad had to contend with a member of staff on the tills as well as a manager due to not having any proof of age on his person. Mr. Brown, who turned 50 in July, managed to buy his booze in the end after convincing staff, at the supermarket branch in Elland, that he really was the age he said he was. Many
supermarkets and off licences use a ‘Challenge 25’ rule which means that staff have to ask for age ID from anyone that looks under 25. While fed up with the constant IDing, Mr Brown said that he does, still, take it positively: ‘I take it as a compliment but it’s getting a bit frustrating. I think they need to retrain their staff. ‘I know I don’t look my age but there’s no way I’m 24,’ he added. Morrisons reiterated its adoption of the Challenge 25 policy and said that it takes its responsibility ‘very seriously.’ ‘We hope Mr Brown took the request as a compliment as he must look very young for his age,’ a spokesman said.
New Form Of Advert In Nigeria Spotted this guy as I was heading to the mall to buy a few items. Coming back two hours later, this guy was still standing right at there in the pouring rain. It was at that point I did the
reasonable thing; took a picture to share on this page. The guys at Lord’s Chosen have nothing on this brother! And how much would they pay this guy for standing all day?
Man Gets His Man-hood Stucked In A Toaster In his defense, that toaster gives good bread. An unidentified London man is nursing his knob after firefighters had to extract his man-hood from a toaster. It’s unclear how the gentleman got it in there, but London’s bravest were there to butter his bread, The Mirror reports. Jokes aside, London appears to have a man-hood problem. It is reported that firefighters in the area have dealt with too many lodged members over the past three years. “I don’t know whether it’s the ‘Fifty
Shades’ effect, but the number of incidents involving items like handcuffs seems to have gone up,” London firefighter Dave Brown said. Firefighters didn’t say when the incident occurred, but they released the story in an attempt to stop people from having s*x with their appliances — or getting into other kinds of embarrassing trouble that diverts resources from emergency services. There have been 1,300 calls since 2010 to London crews reporting that something is “trapped or stuck.”
IN our subsequent edition, we talked about two tests Abraham went through to become the celebrated. Abraham today in this edition, will continue with the test he went through. TEXT OF LOVE OF GOD: Love they say is more of action than confession, if you say you love somebody, such love can only be judge by our behavior towards that person. Many people confuse like for love, they are two different things. Love is superior to like. That you like a thing does not make you love that thing, but you cannot love a thing and not like it as well. The extreme form of like is the starting point of love. What you like to the extreme that you cannot do without is a pointer to what we can refer to as love. Abraham was attested to have loved God. He did not just say it; he behaved it. One of the characteristics of love is giving. Not giving out of the much you have but even when it is painful to you the giver, you look more on the value of what you are giving out to the receiver. In Genesis 22:2 “And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. And verses 3 “And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. God told Abraham, “take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest…, and offer him there for a burnt offering…” God would have as well ask of a big sheep, or a big cow but he did not. He could have as well ask of Ismael or any of Abraham’s born servants but he did not, and these are things Abraham would have given out without stress. Look at the words God used to describe what he wanted from Abraham
Sunday Sermon With Bishop Clement Ehidiamhen
kind of fear makes you obey God at all times and at all cost. God is interested in those that can exhibit this kind of
Character Study Of Abraham (3)
1. Take your son, thine only son Isaac, God knows that Isaac was very dear and loveable to Abraham. He is somebody that he will not readily give out because (a) Isaac was the heir apparent to Abraham, (b) He was the child of the convenant (c)
He was the child of his old age (d) He was the only child who came to wipe mockery from the face of his true wife Sarah (e) He was the praised child. 2. Whom thou Lovest: God knew that Abraham love Isaac so much and wanted to test Abraham on whom he love most between himself and his son. This is the true test of love and Abraham passed it with ease because he loved God more than anything and his action showed it. My dear reader, do you love God? if your yes is true, what have you given up for Him that carries high value in your life? To many of us we don’t play with our time, yet we don’t have
time for God, no time to go to church for fellowship, no time to spend at least one hour daily in communion with God, no time to win soul’s for God, no time, no time, no time. Never you forget that the breath on your nostril that empowers
everything for God, but their wealth they won’t give. Anything you places more value than God has taken the place of God in your life and don’t forget what Deuteronomy 8:18 says” But thou shalt
what he love most to God. A man that have not truly offered his life to God will find it difficult to offer what he values most to God and this is the test of love. TEST OF FEAR OF GOD: Fear in this context is not that which makes you
you to be busy is not yours it is the lord. If you cannot have time for God, I wonder what He will have for you. James 4:8 says “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you…”. There are other person’s that don’t play with their wealth or material possessions. They can do
remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day”. The question is, have you yet offered your life to God, which is your act of reasonable service? Abraham first offered his life to God before offering
hear of God and run from Him. Rather the kind that draws you closer to Him, the kind that makes you reverence God and obey Him; The type of fear that makes you see God as God and not man. This kind of fear that tells you that God is bigger than the biggest, greater than the greatest and better than the best. This
fear towards Him. It was said of Abraham after he has taken up the only son that he loveth to slay him for sacrifice for God in Genesis 22:11&12 “And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I. And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me”. Do you fear God? If you do, you will not murder your fellow man, you will not apprehend your fellow man for a financial ransom, you will not be an obstacle to the growth of his kingdom, you will obey God and his word promptly. Your fear from God can be judge by your faithfulness, commitment and dedication to the things of God. Psalm 25:12-14 says “What man is he that feareth the LORD? Him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth. The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant”. Psalm 34:9-10 says “O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing”. Abraham feared God and he lacked nothing”.
“Abraham first offered his life to God before offering what he love most to God. A man that has not truly offered his life to God will find it difficult to offer what he values most to God and this is the test of love.”
Health Benefits Of Garden Eggs WHILE some people eat it raw, some eat it cooked (in the form of sauce) while others make salad from it. The forms of eating the garden egg seems endless in our Nigerian society. The garden egg plant apart from being a source of vegetable, has numerous health benefits which are essential for the overall development of the human body and it’s acceptability cuts across religious, tribal, cultural and ethnic groups in Nigeria, hence the wide usage of the garden egg plant. Garden egg has a lot of health benefits which most people don’t know, garden egg is a type of fruit, and as we all know, fruits like garden eggs are very good for our body, but most people are unaware of the benefit they can derive from it. Garden egg among other fruits is beneficial and nourishing to the body. This natural fruit is rich in vitamin. Garden egg provides the body with both soluble vitamin and water soluble vitamins; they are rich in thiamin (vitamin B1) required for normal growth and proper functioning of the heart and Nervous system, Niacin (vitamin B6) needed for cellular respiration. More so, Garden egg is one of the anti cancer fruit which has been helping, for over decades, to fight against cancer and other horrible diseases; it is not a must for you to develop cancer, before you start looking for remedy,
hence the saying ‘prevention is better than cure. In Most African countries, this fruit is a highly valued delicacy and constituent of the African food. It also represents fertility and blessing and thus, not common to find it served during wedding ceremonies in some communities across the African continent. No wonder, the Igbo Community in Nigeria can hardly do without eating garden eggs because of the health benefits derived from it. Botanically called Solanum Melongena, garden egg is an economic flowering plant belonging to the family solanaceae and widely distributed throughout the temperate and tropical regions. Members are mostly herbaceous plants, and the fruit is berry and the seeds have large endosperm and are grown mainly for food and medicinal purposes. According to Dr. Ndubuisi Nwakakwa, Deputy Provost G r a d u a t e Administration, Federal Collage of Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, Ikosi, Ketu, Lagos and
ealth Watch
H
With ANTHONY AIBANGBEE
physician/consultant Acupuncturist at Green leaves clinic and Acupuncture center, Ilasamaja, Lagos, “A high level of blood cholesterol level, more particularly low-density
calories per 100g but this rises when dried. When cooked in oil, it contains more than 300 calories due to absorption of extra fat.” In addition, he stated that “Even though
said that garden egg is also rich in some nutrients “Being a member of vegetable family, it contains nutrients that include beta carotene, vitamins B6 E and foliate,
glaucoma patients’ he opined. A study conducted by some experts, S. A. Igwe, Dora Akunyili and C. Ogbogu, Published in the 2003 issue of the journal of Ethno
Tipoprotein cholesterol, is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and heart disease and garden egg has the power of reducing these risks”. According to him “when compared to apples and oats, garden egg plant is more helpful for reducing cholesterol.” It also contains raw form is
garden egg is generally said not to contain huge amount of protein and other nutrients, it is low in sodium and very rich in high dietary fibre, it is also high in potassium, a necessary salt that helps in maintaining the function of the heart and regulates blood pressure. Speaking further the acupuncturist
calcium, iron and magnesium fibre.” The benefits of garden egg to the human body are numerous and some of them as postulated by Dr. Nwakakwa are good for sight, as it has positive effects on visual functions, it is also excellent for weight reduction. “It consumption may be of great benefits to
pharmacology on “Effects of Garden Egg on some visual functions of visually active Igbos of Nigeria” found that eating plenty of garden egg can help lower eye pressure in persons with glaucoma. For weight reduction, “this is the perfect recipe for achieving weight loss within a short period of time because it is very low in calorie content, and that is why experts are encouraging people that want to lose weight to eat more of the fresh form, just as they say people that are told to protect their heart against cholesterol effects should make it their delight” said Nwakakwa.
“Even though garden egg is generally said not to contain huge amount of protein and other nutrients, it is low in sodium and very rich in high dietary fibre, it is also high in potassium, a necessary salt that helps in maintaining the function of the heart and regulates blood pressure.”
Delta Central Senatorial Election
Continued from pg. 2 Ward 8 Collation Centre since Friday night.
“Though materials were moved from the distribution centre to local government headquarters overnight, the PDP, using security agents and thugs, have succeeded in ensuring that the materials are not being ferried to
polling units in several wards. “In Sapele Ward 8, security agents even beat up voters even before the start of accreditation, thus scaring them away from polling units. In Udu Ward 7, election materials were seized by thugs. These strategies are all aimed at
A BUSINESSMAN, Jimoh Mohammed, who allegedly defrauded a company of N15.7 million, was on Thursday charged before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court, Lagos. Mohammed, 47, who lives at No. 127, Ikotun Idimu, a Lagos suburb, is being tried for conspiracy, fraud, stealing and issuing a dud cheque. The prosecution said the accused committed the offences on July 13, 2011 at No.142A, Association Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos. ASP Etim Nkankuk told the court that the accused collected N15.7 million from the complainant and owner of the company — Integrated Project Ltd — Mr Yinka Ilusemiyu, under the pretext of supplying steel rods.
“The accused fraudulently converted the money to his personal use and issued a Zenith Bank cheque in favour of the complainants. “The cheque was dishonoured at the bank on presentation.” The offences contravened Sections 285, 312, 313 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, the prosecutor said. The accused, on conviction, may be sentenced to 15 years imprisonment. The businessman, however, pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum. The Chief Magistrate, Mrs A.A. Demi-Ajayi, adjourned further hearing in the case till Nov. 11.
Businessman Faces N15.7m Fraud Charge
scaring away voters and suppressing votes in opposition strongholds. “In Ughelli South, the INEC official insisted that 19 booklets of ballot papers and 197 loose sheets be given to the Jeremy Ward 2 of the Delta State Deputy Governor, even after materials had been shared to all the wards, including Jeremy Ward 2. If the INEC official had his way, the extra materials would be abused by the PDP. “These conditions are not conducive to the conduct of a free, fair and credible elections, and we call on those saddled with providing security for the election to act fast and arrest the trend before it degenerates into violence and disenfranchises voters,” Lai Mohammed said.
President Goodluck Jonathan (left), arriving AU Secretariat for the Extra Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa weekend.
AIB Releases Preliminary Report On Associated settings. THE Accident Investigation He listed other likely causes Aircraft Crash Bureau (AIB) on Friday in the Domestic Wing of the as “aural warnings related to Abuja released a preliminary report on the Embraer 120 aircraft that crashed on October. 3. The Commissioner of the AIB, Mr Muhtar Usman, who briefed newsmen, said that the report was based on the findings from the “Black Box,” recovered from the scene of the crash. The aircraft, with registration number 5N-BJY operated by Associated Airlines, crashed at
Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos shortly after take-off. The aircraft, which was on a private charter flight from Lagos to Akure, Ondo State, was carrying 20 persons, including the crew as well as the remains of the former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Agagu. Usman said that the AIB had
Weds Sunday The Solemnization of Marriage between former Miss. Kohler Yvonne Melanie (based in Switzerland) and Mr. Sunday Jefuome (A Business Man) took place on Saturday 12th October 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Mr. Egbe Prince Michael, Mrs. Paulina Egbe, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the registry. Congratulations! Photo Sonnie E.
auto-feather and the flap settings, required for take-off and when and how the number two engine fire handle was pulled”. The commissioner listed other likely causes to include crew decision making and training with respect to proceeding with the flight, in spite of concerns regarding the aircraftís suitability for the flight.
Lisa
Agnes
Yvonne
been able to determine from its preliminary assessment of the Flight 361 recorders, the likely causes of the crash. According to him, the likely causes include, mechanical and electronic engine control issues related to the right engine and right engine propeller system as well as the take-off configuration issues with respect to flap
Weds Andrew The Solemnization of Marriage between former Miss Agnes Ekundayo Edokpayi (A Care Assistance) and Mr. Andrew Promise Erhunmwunse (Alumaco Man) took place on Saturday 12th October 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Pastor Anthony Ojo, Mr. Terry Okonedo, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the registry. Congratulations! Photo Sonnie E.
Weds Eric
The Solemnization of Marriage between former Miss. Lisa Lynn Leerskov (based in USA) and Mr. Osamudiamen Eric Igbinoba (A Worker) took place on Saturday 12th October 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Mr. Eghosa Igbinosa, Mrs. Victoria Osagie, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the registry. Congratulations! Photo Sonnie E.
Youth And Road Safety BEING an address by Sir Luka Umar Ikpi, the sector commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, Edo State Sector Command, during the 2013 Youth Road Safety week on 11th October, 2013. Excepts:
Road Traffic Crashes (RTC) are a global phenomenon which needs to be proactively tackled. In the United Nations General Assembly conference held in Moscow - Russia in November, 2009, different countries presented traffic situations prevalent to them. It was generally agreed that RTC is one of the highest cause of mortality, globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2009 brought world attention to the need for urgent remedial action to address the growing trend of fatalities resulting from Road Traffic Crashes by estimating that about 1.3 million die annually from road crashes with about 50 million others injured world-wide. Eighty percent (80%) of these occur in the low income and middle income countries. In addressing the global scourge, the United Nations through the global Ministerial conference declared 2001 to 2012 a decade of action on road safety. Likewise, African leaders under the auspices of WHO met in Accra and declared war on road traffic crashes with commitments to reduce crash related fatalities by 50% in 2015 within the sub-region. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) being a lead Agency in Road Traffic Administration and Road Safety management in Nigeria decided to align with both the United Nations and Accra declarations to fight road traffic crashes in Nigeria to the barest minimum. It is on this note that the FRSC have fixed Second
week of October of every year as a Road Safety Youth week, to sensitize the Youths across the Country on dangers inherent on our roads to stem the tide of crashes and death involving youths. It is pertinent to mention that from the statistics available to FRSC, the greater percentage of people that get involved and die or maimed as a result of road traffic crashes are the youths under the 18 and 45 year brackets. These are indeed the able bodied strong work force of the country, This sensitization programme as we are holding in Edo State today is also on-going in all the States of the Federation. The Theme of this year’s sensitization is THE ROLE OF YOUTHS IN ROAD SAFETY CRASH EDUCATION. Road Safety has adjudged that 80% of the causes of road traffic crashes are traced to HUMAN factor which indeed is avoidable. What can we say about the madness of the driving culture on many roads of the country? Many of you are living witnesses to the way some drivers overspeed on the roads which of course lead to crashes in the event of any skid. What do we say of the dangerous overtaking, drunk driving, loss of concentration while driving, driving and phoning, lack of vehicle m a i n t e n a n c e , overloading, lack of wearing of seat-belts; under-aged driving, et.c? All these are contributing factors to road traffic crashes and they can be avoided f the motoring public exercise patience
and caution and imbibe defensive driving techniques. It is worth mentioning that many youths have suffered many untold consequences as a result of Road Traffic Crashes. There are many out there who have become School drop-outs as a result of the death of either their fathers or mothers who are the bread winners of the family, there are many seated hear I believe, whose fathers or mothers are no longer alive due to road traffic crash and they have a lot of stories to tell if given the opportunity.
There are many youths today who have indulged in different unwarranted behaviours for the fact that the bread winner of the house is no more and they have nothing to fall back to. It is unfortunate that many of our youths have gotten involved in road traffic crashes and have died prematurely. There are many who have gotten their hands or legs amputated as a result of road traffic crashes. There are still yet some who are permanently on wheel Chairs due to RTC. It is therefore high time
BRIO With Francis Odupute
for our youths to be conscious of the inherent dangers and take precautions while on the road. If you are a passenger, you must not take delight when your driver is driving dangerously by overspeeding, overtaking anyhow, carries overloaded passengers or goods, driving and phoning, smoking etc. You must speak out because if you keep quiet and there is a road crash, it could be you that would be involved. Remember, life has no duplicate. We implore all of you to
join this crusade to rid our roads of the wanton destructions, so that by the year 2015, Nigeria will be one of the safest countries to travel by road. TOGETHER WE SHALL SAVE THE FACE OF THE COUNTRY AND THE WASTAGES OF LIVES AND PROPERTY. You are all welcome to this programme, and we believe the message today will continue to ring a bell in the minds of our youths and all people of Edo State. Thank you and God bless.
“It is therefore high time for our youths to be conscious of the inherent dangers and take precautions while on the road.”
Views On The Proposed National Conference The recent decision by president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to call for a National dialogue during his independence day speech, has continue to ellicit heated debate among the populace as to the motive or importance behind such idea, after numerous calls for such in the yester years without government response. Naked truth went to town to get the divergent views of the Nigerian populace, on this burning issue of national importance, they are presented below for your reading pleasure.
The President is not serious about it. He is desperate at seeking for legitimacy for his unpopular government - Okenini O. Victor THE issue of the proposed National Conference is not strange to our polity. Our great nationalists such as the late Anthony Enahoro and others had agitated and called for a conference in the past without any response from the powers that be. One therefore wonders why President Jonathan has recently woken up to this reality. I believe that President Jonathan has called for a conference because he is presently loosing out in the battle for the soul of PDP. In other words, the President is not serious about it. He is desperate at seeking for legitimacy for his unpopular government. However, a National Conference is necessary and crucial in our national life in view of the present ethnic and religious rivalry in the country, corruption, economic imbalance, security challenges and our present defective structure of government which is wasteful. I hope that this conference does not end like one of those talk shops. It is a right step in the right direction. It is better to talk than not talking at all. - Chuks Okagha Some people have called for foreign National Conference as being proposed by Mr. President. What is important is that Nigerians of different ethnic nationalities and political shades will have an avenue to ventilate their
Imade The proposed National Conference is good in the sense that it is a way of reuniting the nation together. Note that it is not the answer to our problems. To me what I think our leaders should be doing now is for them to seek God and repent, then ask God for forgiveness. After
proposed National Conference as the nation’s political problem while others think otherwise. But, we must look at it from the two sides of the coin. In other words, who are those to be appointed as members of the National Conference? Again, it is also imperative to identify the
Naked Truth With CITIZEN EMMA KOLA OKHAKHU corridors of power must ensure that Nigerians with integrity are appointed into the National Conference and above all, also ensure that the envisaged proposed Nation Conference do not eventually become a mirage. It is a Welcome Idea - Anthony Aibangbee The propose National
feelings on crucial national issues. Issues such as revenue sharing formula, political office sharing, the Boko Haram insurgency, youth unemployment, kidnapping and armed banditry should be discussed at the conference. However, the discussants should avoid heating up the polity through unnecessary agitations. The National conference should make and not mar the nation. The proposed National Conference is a welcome development. It is an avenue where some salient national issues are going to be thrashed - Osaretin Okhomina The fact of the matter is that the government of the day has lost grip over the present National problems. Since the government cannot proffer solutions, let Nigerians help them to do just that. Boko Haram menace, comatose economy and insecurity in the country is taking a different dimension and must be tackled headlong. We have seen something like this in the past; the outcome however was not encouraging. The report of Justice Chukwudifu Oputa was thrown under the carpet and the amount spent was a waste. Me think that the proposed conference is a sign that good thing is about to happen in the country, but the pitfalls of the past must be avoided and God bless Nigeria. It Is A Good Thing To Nigeria - Rev Victor
President Goodluck Jonathan
this, they should call for the Christian and the Muslim leaders to pray for them and seek their opinion on the way forward. Let our leaders open opinion centers for the masses to also air their opinion through writing to our lawmakers at the state and federal level. I advice that our leaders should be made to serve just a tenure and after that, they should give room for others. We must look at it from the two sides of the coin. - Kester Ogiesewu The issue of a proposed National Conference, perhaps has become a subject of controversy. Many Nigerians see the
problems of the country especially as it bothers on the economy which directly affects the living standard of the people. However, government must also settle down to appoint credible Nigerians and tested technocrats to serve as members of the National Conference. This is because, considering our past as a nation, we have failed woefully in our attempt to use the idea of a National Conference. To bring about a new Nigeria for the betterment of the Nigerian people and that presupposes that for government to achieve its aim of setting up National Conference those at the
Conference is a welcome idea and one of the few laudable decision by the current administration as it gives Nigerians for the first time an ample opportunity to deliberate on matters that have continuously divided them as a people, with a view of proffering lasting solutions. Although many pit-falls are bound to be on the way but it will serve as a forum to deliberate on national issues without the interference of external bodies or the overwhelming influence of government. It is hoped that this conference will serve the purpose it was meant for not to be
hijacked by politicians and the few rich, hence the method for choosing members for the conference should be fair, democratic and people oriented. It involves only the Opinion of Nigerians - Aleogho Irene The proposed National Conference is a fair one, knowing it deals with the deliberation of all issues concerning Nigeria as a country and it just involves the opinion of Nigerian themselves and no outside involvement. The constitution which we’ve always lived with was organized by the colonial masters and it seems they still lead us invisibly, and if this conference would include the participation of only Nigerians, it gives us a chance to hear their opinion and how they want their own country to be which will benefit the lives of everyone but in doing this we should beware of rebels who would out of their selfish interest suggest some ideas that would benefit them. A welcome development to the country -James Millicent Ochowa It is the best thing that has ever happened in the history of policy formulation and decision making in Nigeria. The proposed National Conference is what Nigeria needs at this time as long as it will guarantee the unity, peace, love, progress and the interest of the common man, so it is a welcome development to the country. It is a Welcome Idea - Ejiroghene Onojeta Well, its uncertain to determine the outcome. The only thing I want government to take into consideration, the people’s representation should be bias free. It is a good proposal towards the good of the country. If the motive behind the proposal is for the greater good of Nigerian so be it. It is a welcome idea.
VOX POP
Who Will Be Your Next Of Kin, Spouse Or Sibling?
NEXT of kin could best be described as someone’s closest living relative. A spouse should naturally be the next of Kin to his or her partner. But the society has changed. These days, some people prefer having their children as their next of Kin. SUNDAY OBSERVER interns: Omigie Ruth, Joseph Ogbewi, Erahbor Shedrack, Jeffery Oboh, went to town to feel the pulse of the people. Excerpts
The Children Get My Votes – Mrs Ionia Godsave My children are my next of kin. My husband and I agreed that our kids would be the next of kin. We decided that anything we would do in the family would be in the name of the children. One can never tell what will happen in future. You might think that the husband will leave the planet first and then find the wife leaving first. If everything is done in the name of kids, they will not suffer. My husband had that experience and he wouldn’t want his kids to suffer the way he did. My Younger Brother – Choice Effiong I think next of kin should be given to the ones you love and trust, so in that case I choose my younger brother because I trust him and he can handle issues on my behalf
and also care for my family when am not around. He is the only one in the family that I single out to be my next of kin because we don’t know tomorrow. He Will Change After Marriage – Happy Irefoh My dad, at the moment is my next of kin. But when I get married, I will automatically change it to be my husband. But when we start having children, I think one of my kids will eventually become my next of kin. My Mum And Sisters Will Do – Glory Umunakwe It actually depends on what transaction is involved. I usually make my brother or any of my sisters my next of kin. However, when my daughter gets old enough, I will also use her as one. I use them because I trust them completely and I am confident
that when the need arises, they will take decisions on my behalf that will be in my best interest. My Child of Course! – Hammed Ibrahim My child will
behalf and put things in order for the betterment of the family. Sons Takes Over From Wife – Obikpi Blessing My son, became my next of kin after he
always be my child as such, my next of kin is my child. I have not filled any form in recent times that will require me to state my next of kin. However, I will still use my child because I trust him perfectly than any other person. And he will be able to take decisions on my
was born. Initially, his mother was my next of kin. I changed it to my son because in case I die now (God forbid), my wife is still very young and can remarry and she will share my sweat and finances with a totally different man, who will possibly squander the fortunes
or even swindle her. Hubby Will Take Over From My Mother – Joy Okoro Since I’m not married, my next of kin is my mother. I chose her because she is the closest as soon as I get married, the template will change. In this case, my
certainly my son. I have learnt the hard lessons of life; otherwise my wife should have been my next of kin. My wife can leave me but my son can never leave me. As such, it is only proper for me to make my son my next of
husband will automatically become my next of kin. This is because if anything should happen to me (God forbid), he will be the one that will take care of our family. No doubt, it’s my son! – Joseph Enahoro My next of kin is
kin. You know your children and even when they are young, you already know who among them you will wish to succeed you, my wife doesn’t have to feel bad that my son is my next of kin. You get what you deserve; you certainly will not get what you don’t deserve.
“I think next of kin should be given to the ones you love and trust, so in that case I choose my younger brother because I trust him and he can handle issues on my behalf and also care for my family when am not around.”
NEWS EXTRA
Govt To Spend N2b On Miliken Hill Reconstruction FOLLOWING the recurrent road crashed on the Milliken Hill-Ninth Mile road, the Enugu State Government has approved N2 billion for its reconstruction. The road was a major gateway to Enugu before a bypass was constructed but had remained a tourism site. Briefing journalists on the outcome of the states
executive council meeting in Enugu, the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chuks Ugwoke, said the reconstruction would take care of the gully erosion threatening to cut off some communities in the area. He noted that the contract awarded to CGC Nig. Ltd was expected to last for 18 months. “The New Market-Milliken
CJ Wants Financial Autonomy For Kogi THE Chief Judge of Kogi, Justice Nasir Ajanah, has urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to champion the struggle for the independence and financial autonomy of the Judiciary. Ajanah made the call when the newly elected executive members of Lokoja branch of the NBA paid a visit to him in Lokoja. He said that the travails facing the judiciary in discharging its constitutional functions in the country were largely due to its dependence on the executive for funds. “It does not augur well for us in the judiciary to continue to go cap in hand to the executive to ask for funds to do certain things. “No Judiciary, especially in states in this country can beat its chest and say that it is fully independent of the executive,’’ he said. The chief judge said it was the duty of the NBA to bring to the knowledge of state executives that there were three arms of government and none is subservient to the other. “There is need for you (NBA) to pursue the independence of the judiciary course because you know, as judges we cannot come out to talk; the only way we talk is through the Bar. Ajanah said that the judiciary as an arm of government should be granted its statutory financial autonomy. The NBA Chairman in
Lokoja, Mr. Joseph Akubo, said the visit was to seek the collaboration of the judiciary in its bid to achieve a ‘strong and vibrant bar.’ Akubo called for establishment of a division of the Court of Appeal in Kogi because it had the highest number of appeal cases pending at Abuja the division of the appellate court. He also solicited financial assistance from the judiciary to enable the NBA complete its ongoing secretariat project in Lokoja.
Hill-Ngwo-Ninth Mile Corner road has been in a deplorable state. Most sections of the road are threatened by gully erosion which may cut off the road and disconnect access to many communities. “It is a very strategic road used as a tourism site. The contract has been awarded to CGC Nig. Ltd at the sum of N2.4 billion,’’ he said. Ugwoke said the council also approved another contract more than N1 billion to Greyline International Ltd for the construction of the 19.5-kilometre Ikedimkpa Affa-Amofia Agu-Oghu road. He said the construction was to ensure the road remained in good condition at all seasons. The commissioner said the government also approved the marking of 17 major roads in the state capital at the sum of N315 million. He listed the roads to include Agbani Road, Edozie-Kenyatta, Nnamdi Azikiwe Avenue, Jim Nwobodo Avenue, Amechi Road, Savage Crescent and Agric Bank-Ozubulu-Port
Governor Fashola Apology On Deportation Courageous -Anambra Govt
THE Anambra government has described the apology tendered by Governor Raji Fashola of Lagos State over the deportation of 72 persons to Onitsha as ‘courageous’. In a statement from the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, the government said that there was no need trying to parse the apology. “I do not know if Governor Fashola apologised to Governor Peter Obi, but I know they are in touch. “As regards Governor Fashola’s apology to the Igbo, he apologised and that is it. There is no need trying to parse his apology, as some are trying to do. “Governor Fashola has shown himself to be a courageous, noble and an honourable man. As a politician, Governor Fashola
is a blessing to Lagos State and Nigeria,’’ the statement said. In September, Fashola tendered an unreserved apology to the Igbo over the deportation of some destitute to Onitsha, Anambra, by his administration in July. In his apology at the Silver Jubilee Symposium of the Igbo socio-cultural think tank, ‘Aka Ikenga’, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, the Governor said the action of his government was misunderstood. “People who clearly do not understand the actions taken and words spoken are those I owe an explanation. “I cannot take the Igbo for granted because we have built a relationship based on tolerance, mutual respect, love and trust,’’ he said.
Sallah: Motorist Cautioned Against THE FRSC in Ondo State has advised motorists to refrain from excessive speeding and night journeys during and after the Eld-elKabir festival. The Sector Commander, Mrs. Aderonke Daniel, gave the advice while speaking with newsmen in Akure. Daniel said excessive speed was responsible for the high
Excessive Speed
casualty figures resulting from road traffic crashes. She also said road users should behave well while driving in order to make the roads safe for all users. “Change from attitude of impatience, over speeding, dangerous overtaking and night journeys because of the
risks involved. “You should drive at moderate and common sense speed. “Now is the time to let people know that speed may thrill, but it kills because it is only the living that can celebrate the festival,” she said.
Harcourt express road. The commissioner said the council also approved the payment of N412 million to the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEC) to access its 2013 statutory allocation of UBE matching grant. He said the UBE grant would promote the quality of education and reduce the number of out of school children in the state. Meanwhile, the state government has approved the
programme of its 2013 cultural and tourism fiesta holding in December, according to Ugwoke. He said the 11- day festival would comprise symposium, art exhibition, cultural display, masquerade night and fashion show. He listed other events to include praise night, children’s party and road block musical jamboree featuring artistes and the Werraso Band from the Democratic Republic of
Congo. The commissioner said the ministry of culture and tourism would partner with corporate bodies to ensure the success of the event. Ugwoke urged the private sector to partner with the government in promoting the cultural potential of the state. According to him, last year’s event was a huge success and this year ’s edition promised to be even better.
Former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, condoling with Rep. Beni Lar, Chief Solomon Lar’s daughter, during his visit to the deceased residence in Abuja.
FRSC Harps On Road Safety Consciousness By FRANCIS ODUPUTE YOUTHS are the leaders of tomorrow and if young people today imbib the culture of road safety consciousness, Nigeria in future would be one of the safest countries to travel by road. This assertion was made yesterday in Benin City, by the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission, Edo State Sector Command, Sir Luka Umar Ikpi, at the 2013 Youth Road Safety Week. Addressing school children and other participants at the National Museum field, venue of the event, the Corps Commander observed that road traffic crashes are a global phenomenon for which both the unite Nations General Assembly, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had separately made commitments, at various global and regional meetings/ conventions, to address crash related fatalities on roads by 50% in 2015. Sir Lukar Ikpi said “The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) being a lead agency in Road Traffic
Administration and Road Safety Management in Nigeria decided to align with both the United Nations and the WHO Accra declarations to fight road traffic crashes in Nigeria to the barest minimum. “It is on this note that the FRSC have fixed second week of October of every year as a “Road Safety Youth Day” to sensitize the youths across the country on dangers inherent on our roads to stem the tide of crashes and death involving youths. It is pertinent to mention that from the statistics available to FRSC, the greater percentage of people that get involved and die or maimed as a result of road traffic crashes are the youths under the 18 and 45 year brackets. These are indeed the able bodied strong workforce of the country”, Ikpi lamented. While fielding questions from men of the press on the whole essence of the youth sensitization programme, the Corps Commander argued that “Road Safety Corps believe in catching them young. The youth are the leaders of tomorrow. We see that all these menaces that are
happening on our roads today are because during our days there w as no such a programme, and many people that are driving today are driving in ignorance. Some people are breaking road safety laws because they lack the knowledge. But we believe that these youths, if from now we start training them on the rudiments of driving and if we continue to tell them to drive according to the rules and regulations, we believe in the near future our roads are going to be safe. During their own time all these road accidents that we are experiencing in the country is going to be very minimal”. The FRSC used the opportunity of the nationwide youth sensitization programme themed “the role of youth in road safety crash reduction” to call on all Nigerians to be road safety conscious always, and to remember to call the distress number 122, whenever there is any emergency regarding road traffic accidents or related safety incidents, anywhere in the country.
Giving Your Child A Name GIVING a name or names to a child is an important event in one’s life as it is a responsibility of parents to give name as an identification to their children. Giving an identity to a child is making or building that child to be an independent individual. That is why in all families, you will not find more than one child bearing the same names except from the family name which identify that particular family. Child naming ceremony in our society is celebrated in most communities with much celebration. It includes extended families giving names to the child to help identify him. Most times, these names are written down, but at the end of it all, it is the ones most suitable
goat, not because of the way it behaves, but because it’s called a goat, therefore to the parent that is behaves as such”. taken and the child is Right from
creation, names were given but with meanings and it follows those named. Looking into some Bible stories like the
Motherhood With Chelson SMS 08023457637
life of Abraham, He was called Abram,(assumed father) had no child
“As parents, we tend to follow traditions of our forefathers, bearing names that when you search for the meaning, it is so deep. Names are spiritual and that is why parents should be very careful in giving names to their children.” called. Name given is sometime based on circumstances, situations, events happening and likes of parents. Anybody can give name, but what should be considered is the meaning of the name. A name as we all know serves as means of identification, sometimes the name follows, live with one’s life, the way or what you are called is how your life will follow. A goat is called a
“Name given is sometime based on circumstances, situations, events happening and likes of parents.”
then but when God called and changed his name to Abraham, (father of all nation) he became that. Also Jacob, his name had to change to Israel before he started living out the blessing on his life. As parents, we tend to follow traditions of our forefathers, bearing names that when you search for the meaning, it is so deep. Names are spiritual and that is why parents should be very careful in giving names to their children. Deciding on a name, should be done prayerful and by both parents, it can either be native or English names or both depending on choice of parents. Today, parents go for the English names mostly, even, French, Spanish or Hebrew names but find out the meanings to this name, though these foreign names are good to pronounce but giving the children names should be done that the child’s life follow God’s destiny for him. Everyone born into this world has a name to his /her person and we all live up to the name we are called, it’s meaning. My son’s name is Isaac (laughter), you can’t be around him for two minutes without laughing, you will laugh with him, never a dull moment with him.
Relationship “Women tend not to fully express themselves in terms of what they actually want from a man, trending on an assuming ground that the man will automatically know her or what she wants.” WHAT most women do when they go into a relationship with a man that they really like and love but he is just not that serious or interested is that they try to convince the man to feel differently, forgetting that you can not or will never change how a man feels when it comes to attraction, never, ever. There is no way you can convince a man to feel differently about you with logic reasoning if a man don’t “feel it” for you. Don’t expect to change that by being reasonable with him. When a man isn’t interested, women tend to chase, convince, compliment and do their best to change his mind with rational and logical approaches, known that will never work. Though, men are also all know for this, complimenting women that don’t like or love them, going out of their way buying gifts. In all cases, for both the man and woman, the partner might enjoy the gifts,
With Chelson SMS 08023457637
you are lonely, hurt or lied to or when the man you like or love says “Am not ready”. You don’t have to be afraid of being lied to, cheated on or that you will end up alone. If
the attention and whatever they are getting out of it but it doesn’t change the
Going out on a date with a man, be sure that he already has an idea of what he wants
way they feel about that person. Most women find it difficult to know what to do in divers situation. It is important that women
from you. Don’t just sit there looking, flirting or trying things you think will make him want you. Not knowing what to do in each situation, will
they truly want is not getting or asking for help. Women think it makes them look weak
you like to take your success with your man and dating to the next level, find out
should realize that a man has a clear idea of what he wants from a woman, not just sex.
probably screw things up and losing everything. The biggest mistake that keeps women
or helpless. It is high time, women get rid of that sick, insecure feeling, the one you get when
how to create the foundation for the relationship that you have always wanted, then get started now.
from ever having the kind of success and finding the kind of man and relationship that
One of the most important issue in a relationship is communication, talk your fears, what and how you feel, the things you would want done to you and any
Mistakes Women Make When Dating (3)
reaction or behaviour from your partner. Women tend not to fully express themselves in terms of what they actually want from a man, trending on an assuming ground that the man will automatically know her or what she wants. And at the end of it all, the woman is feeling insecured in a relationship that she so desired. Is high time women go into relationship being themselves, expressing themselves, talking, (I mean real talk, not bla bla). Do things that make you and others around you happy. Living out yourself is the best expression ever in life and let men see you for who you are, don’t pretend, imitate other women. Whatever works for another may not work for you.
“The biggest mistake that keeps women from ever having the kind of success and finding the kind of man and relationship that they truly want is not getting or asking for help. Women think it makes them look weak or helpless.”
SINCE the October 1st national broadcast by president Jonathan marking the nation’s 53rd independence anniversary where-in to the utter
resulting in the present reign of impurity in our public and private lives. There exists another group who believe that
the woes besetting the nation. The question many Nigerians now ask is, who should constitute the membership of the dialogue and who should
Politics And With
National Dialogue:
President Jonathan; believes conference will change Nigeria
amazement of most Nigerian he announced his positive disposition to decades long calls for national conference or dialogue with the constitution of an advisory committee to that effect, opinions had vary as to the essence of the dialogue. While some suspect the motive of the president in calling for the national conference which they see as diversionary tactics to let off the heat he has been receiving from the internal crisis rocking his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) given his avowed initial opposition to the concept of a national dialogue, others see it as a golden opportunity for the nation to sit down and discuss sundry issues on the path way to growth and development. To this group, the concept of a national dialogue at this point in time has become inevitable owing to the avalanche of iniquities that have dogged the corporate Nigeria
even as germane as the reasons advanced for the convocation of a national dialogue/conference, they fear that the present one would go the way of the previous ones before it with Nigerian gaining nothing from the process and if anything the drain of the nation’s resources on the fruitless conference. This group is not in any way suggesting alternatives to the concept of a national dialogue thereby raising suspicious as to the genuiness of their attitude especially when some of them had in the past allegedly funded agitations for a national conference, be it sovereign or not. Obviously, partisan political sentiments cannot be ruled out of their positions in relation to the concept of a national dialogue owing to the preponderance of divergent opinions on the concept among the political elites who have roundly been blamed for
represent what interest at the talks owing to the vestiges of discontents that cut across the various interest(s) in the country some of which had been greatly misunderstood and misrepresented. Take the contending issues of the number of local governments which we have all agreed had been disproportionately allocated to states of relatively equal population with some unduly favoured with more than double of the number allocated to others. We must agree at the conference on the parameters and qualifications for the number of local councils a state should have. Take the example of Kano and Lagos states which both have over ten million population each. While the former has over fourty local government councils, the later only has twenty constitutionally recognized local councils
prompting the state government to create additional 37 local council areas though not recognized by the constitution and therefore unable to get any allocation from the federation account. There is another issue very germane to the national conference, which is the fear of ethnic domination and feeling of tribal superiority among the various groups in the country. While the majority tribes in Nigeria had been accused by their majority counterparts of domination in every aspect of the nation’s life, the majority tribes had been seizeless in assertingg their numerical advantage to get what ever they wanted. This is where the Advisory committee has a Herculean task by developing a template that would be nationalistic in outlook that would make participants at the national conference approach their respective presentations from stand points that promote accommodation and integration. Although the Sen Femi Okurounmu Advisory Panel on the proposed dialogue has yet come up with any report on the form, character and procedures of the conference as it has just started to go about its assignment after their inauguration on Monday October 7, 2013, opinion seems to favour the concept of a national dialogue that will seek to focus attention on the real issues of resource allocation and distribution among the different
HAMEED BRAIMAH
What W
stratum of the Nigerian society not on the basis of states and local government but on equality of citizens majority of whom had suffered and are still
has not been able to galvanize men and material resources to correspondingly stimulate an economic process that could create jobs to march the ever growing population of the country.
mini Repu the e iron mass this happ coun
They want an end to a situation where the nation’s resources is spent on the political class who constitute less than one percent of the nation’s 160 million people. They want a forum where they can challenge the allocation of a whopping sum of over N150 billion spent annually on members of the national Assembly who are less than five hundred people, needless mentioning the huge budget of the executive branch of the Federal government which is shrouded in secrecy with no one sure of what a
mini N18, naira is no of th their luxur areas avera that mont beha chan dialo For the i man Abu conf from shack to dis
Confab inauguration
suffering under the burden of the hijack of state resources by s negligible percentage of the nation’s population, the elites who had over the years misused our common patrimony to the agony and death of many hapless Nigerian citizens most of whom daily struggle to eat once in a day. To this class of Nigerians, there should be an end to the present reign of impurity as presently manifesting in the crass corruption in the land, pervasive unemployment which is a direct bye product of a planless political leadership which
Issues
The judiciary which we all parrot to be the last hope of the common man under the present circumstance has had its
representation at the summit which the various interest group particularly ethnic jingoists are erroneously
fair share of scandals relating to allegations of bribery and corruption with just a handful judicial officers given a slap on the wrist punishment with compulsory retirements
waiting to make their parochial and selfish demands on the nation state at the prompting of their respective elite class who had over the years whipped up ethnic sentiments in order to perpetually put a wedge on the unity of the country. They would be rudely shocked by the preponderance of opinions from poor Nigerians irrespective of their states of origin on the need to allocate resources along the social ladder based on equality of citizens through the development of a robust economy anchored on production of goods and services both for local consumption and export, as opposed to the current unrealistic parameters of equality of states and local governments for those in government to hijack thereby leaving the masses
out of the scheme of things. The average Nigerian is eager to participate in the National Dialogue. They want a participation cutting
represented their individual pockets to their collective woes. They want all of that changed. Also wanted changed is the current
We Must Talk About
ister in the Federal ublic of Nigeria earns at end of the month. The y of this is that the sive fund allocation to class of elites is pening in the same ntry where the average
imum wage is put at ,000 (eighteen thousand a) only, an amount which ot enough for a member he ruling class to have r breakfast in their riant homes in choice s, yet they expect the age worker to live on amount for a whole th. These are some of the aviours that must be nged using the national ogue platform. rtunately, the president at inauguration of the 13 Advisory committee in ja assured that the erence would be free m any governmental kles as it would be open scuss any issue no matter
how sensitive to our existence as a nation. The platform must of necessity focus attention on respect for the rule of law. The lack of respect for the rule of law
principally by the elites who look for whatever means to circumvent the law for personal gains has been identified as being at the root of the current reign of impurity which consequences we are all today grappling with. Closely associated with this is the development of a well equipped, a well informed and cultured police force which besides enforcing compliance to the laws of the land, must be seen to be fair and firm in the discharge of their duties and free from the odium of favouratism and corruption which currently dog their operations.
even when they had been found to have compromised their oath of office and allegiance. The conference offers a golden opportunity for us to determine also the type of judiciary we want that would help in our quest for national reformation. This critical role can only be played by a free, unfettered, and courageous judiciary. Not withstanding the skepticism expressed in some quarters, the mass of Nigeria people are waiting with bathed breathe for the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on National Dialogue with regard to the
Dr. Femi Okunruonmu
across the social stratum. They want the labourers, artisans, farmers and market women to take part in the dialogue. They do not trust the elite enough to represent them as had been the case in the past. They had discovered to their utter amazement that the elites had over
Ahmed Tinubu, Conference diversionary
feeling of despondency among the average Nigerian youth. The youth had over the years suffered neglect owing to the disappearance of hitherto institutionally guaranteed incentives like scholarships, jobs opportunities after graduation from institutions of higher learning. Sadly enough, most of today’s elite class who are today causing the disappearance of these incentives had themselves enjoyed them in their youthful ages. What they have used to pay back a society that cared for their well being so greatly is the ‘privatization’ of nearly every public social in infrastructure to the extent that only the supper-rich can access quality education in Nigeria. Little wonder that only students in the nation’s exorbitant fees charging private universities today are in school learning while the children of the average Nigerians most of whom can’t afford the cost are made to waste valuable academic time sitting at home courtesy of ASUU strike which has
S
unday Diet
With ERNEST IKHUREIGBE
That I May Know Him THERE are so many people known to you that have not added any value to your life, rather have diminished you and render irredeemable the purpose for which the owner of your life had ordained or predestinated you. Retrace your steps or else. Believe it or not, the Lord promises an “expected end” to those that know Him. Jere 29:11. It is further affirmed by Paul that, “whom He did predestinate, them, He also called, and whom He called, them, He Justified, them, whom He Justified, them He also glorified”. Romans 8:30 I have not seen anyone who had an encounter with Him and remained the same. And even, those who tried to contend with Him were not only humbled, they were publicly humiliated and disgraced. Act 12:21-23. No matter your vibrancy and commitment to an
unholy act, He has the clue to bring such persons to reason or subjection. Jonah 1:3, 17. The great Apostle Paul was known and is on record that he persecuted the church to a wide dimension, that it was in the course of carrying out this unholy official assignment that he became a prisoner of the Lord. Act 9:1-6 Beloved, when Apostle Paul realized his foible and the power that have arrested him, he surrendered himself for His use. Act 9:6. he was given the assignment for which he was created. Act 9:15 “For he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, kings and the children of Israel”. When you know Him, your life assignment that would usher in your success in life will be exposed and people would definitely acknowledge it. The woman with the issue of blood did not know that one could end
“The great Apostle Paul was known and is on record that he persecuted the church to a wide dimension, that it was in the course of carrying out this unholy official assignment that he became a prisoner of the Lord.”
in more precarious situation with all one’s available resources without Jesus. She had suffered the blood flow for twelve years, and had spent “all that she had” yet her plague remained unabated. Mark 5:25-27. Her situation could better be imagined than experienced. She could not go any where for treatment, there was no fund to pay for any bills that may be given to her. It was at this point that she took a crucial decision to seek who would not ask for a dime. Matt 10:8. She merely touched His garment’ Mark 5:27 and the long-soughthealing of a twelve year old plague cease immediately. Beloved, no one gets from Him unless faith is uncommonly expressed. He sees and appreciates you when your faith is exercised. “Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; son be of good cheer, thy sin be forgiven thee”. Matt 9:2. Heb 11:1,6. One’s own peace can elude one if one is blinded to the Prince of Peace. John 16:33 has this to admonish us “in the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”. Apostle Peter knew who Jesus was that he obeyed Him to walk on the waters when He permitted him to follow Him. Matt 14:26-30. But when he lost the thought that he was with the Author of life, he began to sink until he called on Him to save his life. He does not abandon anybody, though anyone could decide to abandon Him at one’s own peril. It is however, convenient and reasonable to know Him for His life and light to illuminate in one’s life. Remain blessed.
A CHOSEN VESSEL A voice from heaven had a special significance for any Jew. God had spoken directly with Noah, Abraham and Moses, and here was another direct encounter with the Lord of heaven. The phrase “to kick against the pricks” or goads as some translations say, was a phrase for opposition to deity. It was as if Saul concluded that Jesus was truly God, He was deity – a revelation to one who moments before was opposed to this God. Two words in verse 6 describe Saul’s reaction to Jesus’s words – trembling and astonished. His body shook and his mind was overwhelmed as he encountered first hand the one he had been persecuting. Saul’s question came, “Lord, what will thou have me do”? Saul had a change of heart and the one he was persecuting, he suddenly began to call Lord, as the glory of God shone around him. It was similar to the Shepherd’s seeing the glory of God in Bethlehem at Jesus’s birth, but this glory was directed toward one man, Saul of Tarsus. The Lord answered Saul, “Arise and go into the city and it shall be told thee what thou must do”. The directions were clear, the men who traveled with Paul heard the voice but saw no man. Whether they understand the voice or if Saul was the only one to understand we cannot be sure. But the men saw no man. They were “speechless, the Bible says. When God shows His Power, we stand before Him with nothing to say, totally in awe of His power and authority. When Saul came up from the ground he was struck with blindness. The light of God’s presence had been too much for Saul’s earthly eyes. The men with Saul led him by the hand to
R
eflections
With MOSES EVBUOMWAN
A Chosen Vessel (2) Damascus. For three days he did not eat or drink. I am sure it was a very intense time of soul searching. So the Lord was working in Saul’s life while He called another disciple to go minister to him. His name was Ananias. The Lord came to Ananias in a vision and called him by name. The Lord told Ananias exactly where to go to find Saul the street and houses were detailed. Understandably, Ananias was not thrilled, Ananias had heard how much evil Saul had done in Jerusalem. He evidently knew Saul was coming to Damascus to devour the church as he had done in Jerusalem. The church had their guard up to avoid this criminal at all costs. But the Lord said, “Ananias, this man is a CHOSEN VESSEL for me to take my name to the Gentiles”. God had chosen Saul for a unique purpose. And with Saul’s choice there was also to be some suffering for God. God wants disciples today who are willing to serve Him no matter what
the cost. God knew Saul was sold out to persecution and that when he would meet the truth he would be sold out for Jesus Christ. Ananias’s response is so refreshing. The Lord spoke to him, Ananias raised his objection. Then in verse 17, “Ananias went his way and entered the house”. He walked in and laid his hand on Saul and said, Brother Saul”, I am sure the emotion and feeling ran deep for both of them as he said those simple words. Saul had not yet seen Ananias. Saul heard him say that the same Lord who has appeared to Saul had sent him so he could receive his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit. What faith is demonstrated by Brother Ananias. Immediately, those scales of blindness fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see, when he rose up he submitted to water baptism immediately. Saul somehow knew that this was required of a new believer and he immediately received it.
“God wants disciples today who are willing to serve Him no matter what the cost. God knew Saul was sold out to persecution and that when he would meet the truth he would be sold out for Jesus Christ.”
Fashion & The Importance Of Good Style Sense Of Fashion THE importance of fashion in today’s society is greatly understood. The way you look and dress is the first impression that people will have of you and this means that you will need to be dressed in a way that fits your fashion sense, but also compliments you. Fashion is a great way to state who you are and what you really stand for. they are dressed without The fact is clothing does worrying what people more than just concealing would think as it is still your body, it has the trendy and it still adapts ability to accentuate your with today’s society. figure, minimize your It’s self explanatory flaws, give you the image really, if you were, a of either professionalism, student going for a job conveys your interview at some fancy individuality and make restaurant. Who do you you feel your best. As think the employee would civilized human beings, go for? The guy or girl clothing is a requirement with great fashion sense that make you to be decent or the guy or girl that and presentable to the doesn’t really care about public. their fashion. Well, personally, There are different fashion is important styles for everyone but if because it is your way to you are not comfortable in express yourself. Now, what you are wearing, fashion as a whole might then it will show, fashion not be actually important is not just about latest other than that, unless you trends, it is also about personally consider it looking good. By good important, some people looking we mean neat feel your wardrobe appearance with just the represents who you are right amount of accessory. and what you want to It is also important to accomplish and sets an dress in what you like to example, but fashion itself wear and not to make is in the eye of the others happy. For beholder. example, let’s say you are Fashion is very going to a club and your important as it is a way friends like to stand out of with which people can the crowd and they are freely express their wearing trousers and a top thought, ideas and opinion with 6-inch heels which by just wearing clothes may look good on them, that sums up who they are but if you are happy with and what they love. a basic black dress and As we know, not lesser heels with necklace every one is confident, so then you should wear it. fashion allows these set of Just because you are people to be who they are going to a club you don’t without needing to explain have to dress in a way that themselves in any way. makes you Nowadays, people’s looks uncomfortable. The only are very important since it place you should dress to gives others an idea of impress is when you are who they are and how meeting someone for the their personality is first time and when you without actually knowing are at a job interview. them in person. It is fun to take a look Furthermore, fashion and see where fashion allows people to be unique actually started, and why as everyone has a different it is so important to some sense of fashion and each people. There are many individual can be people today that like to comfortable by the way wear something
By FAVOUR NOSAKHARE
comfortable and if it looks neat and nice, then you have the other people who won’t wear anything unless it has a designer label on it. The one
someone visually without knowing them, we almost always determine within seconds whether or not we believe that this person is clean, reliable, filthy and
important for people to focus on clothes for instance, fashionable clothes could lead to a positive effect on business. In Japan, many workers tend to dress smartly rather than casually when
important rule of fashion that often gets over looked, is to wear what is comfortable on you and what fits your personality. Fashion and your personality and style should go hand in hand. If you are a quiet and less flashy person, then wearing glittered clothes and stiletto heels is not dressing according to your personality. Everywhere in the world, fashion and appearance is considered important no matter how much you try to deny it and claim it’s a “waste of time”. Putting time and effort into how you look, tells the world most things they need to know about you in a single glance. It is human nature to judge
lazy just by looking at them. There’s no need to strive for absolute perfection but even the most basic up keep are thought into the way you look, which makes a lot of difference. Fashion is an essential aspect of life. By this I mean, that it is absolutely
they negotiate with their clients. This is because they intend to represent their status and show a great faith for their clients by doing this. Therefore, the clothes have a positive influence upon the business. In fact, the number of companies that encourage
With ROSE ORHIBHABOR
their employees to dress smartly has surged significantly in recent years, and this is a common trend in various countries. Thus, as far as I am concerned, fashion is an important part of life. Fashion is the supporting reality for our auspicious development. One could remain in touch with the society and renaissance of the nation. I would like to support this because, fashion isn’t disturbing our cocurricular activities and our social, personal and professional life. It encourages our minds to think in a fashionable and free way. Remaining in fashion describes that, we are the new breeds of this generation without that old and superstitious mind. It is good, fashion is a lifestyle, to maintain the appearance and enhance self-confidence, fashion is most commonly associated with church, but it even applies to anything from interior, architecture, models, to toys. It is a spirit, where an individual is comfortable with his mode of clothing and converts this comfort into a personal style. It is a way of measuring a mood which can be useful in many aspects, culturally, socially even psychologically, perhaps the most distinctive quality about the fashion since the early times is that it is increasing in simplicity.
“Fashion is very important as it is a way with which people can freely express their thought, ideas and opinion by just wearing clothes that sums up who they are and what they love.”
s h o W b i z
Music
Movies
My Father Didn’t Teach Me Music By VICTOR AMASIHOHU FEMI Kuti, scion of the late Afrobeats originator, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti will be celebrating his 50 th year birthday come next year-2014. In a recent personality profile interview granted by Femi, he revealed lot of things about himself. ON HIS FATHER INFLUENCE He said that though his father left medical science to study music, his father being a foremost musician didn’t take him (Femi) out of school because of his profession and that he -Femi was left to sit comfortably and allowed to go through books in his personal library. On what he has to say on the influence of his father, one of the regrets he has is that he was not taught music by his father, that all he knows, acquired and practised in music were all his personal efforts. He taught himself music, he said. Stressing that he had no pre-reading and writing in music. That, before his father’s death, if he wanted to, he could have taught them (children) much of his music skills but never did. Adding that in an occasion when he brought the issues of been left alone, his father asked him: “if he Femi was not famous; or if he Femi was not able to feed his family” When the answer from him (Femi) was on the positive side, he rested his case. And he never questioned further his
father about that issue. ON EGYPT 80 When asked on the experience he had with his father on Egypt 80, he said that at that time he left his father in 1986 to form his own band, knowing too well that the six years he was in his father band, he had learned so much. Noting that he was so independent to start taking instructions –on what he had already known, so when he told his aunty of his plans to start off on his own, - and some of his family members got to know about this- they were not too happy so everyone in the family including his closet aunt all turned against him. He said that at that time between 1986 and1989, when he had already left his father for his own band, it almost became impossible for him to survive. Hopefully, it was in 1988 that some of his brothers later introduced bread (surviving means) to him. GREATEST TASKS Femi Kuti pressed further that one of his greatest tasks was to see to the building of the Fela shrine of which his father was more famous or famously known. Saying his death so much stressed him. Also, the absence of his father, his pain to head the family particularly his sisters, the mother was also there side by side for him to carter for- all these were some of his greatest tasks then. ON AWARD In the year 2000, “Gbanbgangban” was nominated for Coral Award. He emphasized that it didn’t mean so
much to him-and that he never saw it as a big deal but was surprised that various people turned out at the Airport to welcome him when he came into the country. What he thought was not such a much deal turned out be a good one for him. HIS WISHES Speaking on his wishes, Femi Anikulapo-Kuti wished that his father, sister and his first son Omoremeji ride above him. And continuing he said that 5 to 9 years to come, he wishes to veer into night showbiz. And that as he has no education he wishes that his son and children must be 10 times educationally and musically than him. And if they did not find it easy, they should also venture into art or business. His sons Omoremeji, Turisho, Lade and the expected baby are those he wishes all these for. ABOUT FELA He stated that Fela his father was very important to him. And that he is on a broadway and that is why he (Femi) finds it very difficult to come to the shine above him because he must have to meet up with the qualities of his father, adding that Fela is on Broadway. FELA RELATIONSHIP WITH OUTSIDE WORLD Femi Kuti says that the Americans appreciate his father, Fela, that Fela should not be presented to the Americans as a political actor. Someone who had 27 (twenty seven) wives in one day, should be adored That Fela should be
“And continuing he said that 5 to 9 years to come, he wishes to veer into night showbiz. And that as he has no education he wishes that his son and children must be 10 times educationally and musically than him.”
taken to American public-the way he is to Nigerian publicafrobeat inventor. And that when this is done, it will make him the average person anybody in the world-will ask about. ADMIRE When asked on those he admires most in the world, he said his father Fela Kuti, among his choices of notables. HIS STYLES When asked on his style of life Femi Kuti noted that he cherished honest, righteous life, a life full of virtues. He said further that he also likes to practice what he believes in, always wanting to follow the path of righteousness. He relished the good time he had, that he likes to share love. And that he is so contended with the time he had. Because he loved every moment of his time he likes to share them with his friends, sisters and his boys. POLITICAL VIEW He said politically he is sitting on the wall and while sitting on the wall he said he wants to see corrupt things pass away. He likes to speak or sing on corrupt issues and vices plaguing the people. Another reason for sitting on the wall is also because of his father’s stand, and that is just his heritage right from the very first time from his grandmother. NIGERIANS’ RIGHT Still a political question on what should be the rights of Nigerians; Femi Kuti said electricity and good education for all. Capitalizing on his father ’s experience whose right to be a musician was almost deflated by his parents who wanted their ward to be a medical doctor, noting that self right is very vital to individual therefore allowing anyone to his or her own right-should be the right of every Nigerian. ROLE OF OUR LEADERs He said he is not used to singing praise of leaders but want the various leaders in the country to live up to
expectation. He said that the leaders should do the country a favour by performing their duties. Femi is not happy with what the nation had suffered in the hands of the soldiers in the past, in that almost 54 (Fifty Four) years of our Country we still don’t have electricity.
SHOWERING PRAISE Femi said his fellow artistes should do their job very well, though they need money. And that if fellow artistes should have to sing the praise of bigwigs or politicians in the society, they will not be able to sit back and criticize them. That, instead of
Femi Kuti
Fela Anikulapo Kuti
criticizing them of their wrongs they will sing their praise. ON AFRICA VIEW Kuti Femi said Africans are missing the point and they don’t seem to understand. Stating that the white men came with colonizing structure to separate Africans by breaking Africa into different structure, the North, South East and West Africa. And they still went ahead to break it into state structures. And that before the white men came into Africa to colonize them, that African was very united. Continuing he said that we should think as Continues on page 21
Theatre
Concert
God Told Me To Go Into Music By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM
IN this interview with Chief Comrade De Great Osabhokhien Enieghai Ekpon in Igueben Local government Area of Edo state, he advised youths to respect their elders for their days to be long. Speaking to Joel Chukewuaghonim, he gave thanks to God for his life today, noting that it was God who revealed to him that he should go into music. “While I was in the secondary school, God revealed to me to go into music, as I am from a poor family. I bought a guitar and started learning on my own. Other boys were helping me to handle instruments before my late brother Jakky Jokoile bought instruments for me, that was in the year 1999 and when he died, I played the Album
titled Omen-Jo-meOwen which is my first Album, the year 2004, after this I played
- Comrade Enieghai
another, “MeyeniNwah, also Oshi-shiwe-ji.Atu-EgunUgboko”.
According to Chief Emeghai, the new release that is on the pipeline is Owenni-Ehien-erere-
Comrade Enieghai
areleni. He said the joy he has in playing music is that he got married while playing music, and he now has children that he is taking care of. He advised the upcoming youths to listen to God’s voice, and his approval, because God created people with different talents. He also advised the youths, particularly in Ekpon Community, both home and in diaspora to respect the elders so that their days will be long. He thanked, H.R.H of Ekpon Community, George Edobor and his Chiefs in Council for their fatherly role played in Ekpon Community. He also advised the Chiefs in Council to co-operate with H.R.H to enable him pilot the affairs of Ekpon Community to afrom greater height. Sifour Lawson in Victor Olaiya’s band in Lagos, Nigeria. He also had a successful music career in the then Western Region with his “Bisi Kabaka and his modern dance band of Nigeria”.
Musicians Advised To Learn How To Play Instruments A Benin based musician Deacon Adebisi Agunbaide has called on upcoming music artistes in Nigeria
to make effort to acquire skills in musical
My Father Didn’t Teach Me Music Continued from page 20
African, we should care for ourselves rather than killing ourselves. And as Nigerians in West Africa, we should know what is going on in Benin Republic and other neighbouring countries. We should know more about them, news about their government, news about what is happening in South Africa, Zimbabwe, etc. He is pissed off that what most Africans want to do is the interest to go to America, which he said was rough. He emphasized that there should be unity among Africa countries and Africans should care for one and another. And try to know their various problems among themselves, and finding ways to help solve them. ON IF AFRICA
WILL GET IT RIGHT Kuti believes on the positive side that one day Africa will get it right. Wishing that if there is no migrate in the nation relating the role Nkruma of Ghana had played in the past nobody would have known Africa, saying that for Africa to get it right, she has to unite. Asked if Africa will change, he stated that it will, Africa will change one day- in his life time. And so him as a single entity trying to do his best to improve the lot of the continent, teaches his sons, to stand on their rights-as Africans, he concluded he love following throughevents in the continent. Conclusively, Femi Kuti wishes Nigerians to stand their right, practise unity and care for one and another.
instruments. Deacon Agunbaide made the call while speaking with SHOWBIZ on his recently published work “saxophone Tutor for Beginners”. According to Deacon Agunbaide, he was inspired to write and publish the book because of the need to make information available to upcoming music artist on the theoretical and practical aspects of saxophone. He also stressed the need for the upcoming music artist to learn one form of solo musical instrument in building a successful career. Agunbaide said, “the recent development of the music industry in the country needed artist with skills in playing instrument in addition to their singing prowess”. He also stressed the role of musical instrument in aiding artist develop good composing skills. Agunbaide who started
his musical career from St. Paul’s Anglican Church and School in the early 1950’s acquired knowledge in music and saxophone
With EMMANUEL OKOGBA. O.
GSM: 08163121378
GLOBAL BUZZ Mary J Blige Rocks Sisters With Soul Concert THOSE who were at the Sisters with Soul Concert with America’s queen of soul, Mary J Blige, swore that she did not disappoint. Seyi Shay, Eva Alordiah, MS. Jaie, Niyola, Jodie, Munachi, Temi Dollface, Emma Nyra, and DJ Cuppy also performed at the Expo Centre of Eko Hotel and they too made their presence felt. Mary J Blige rocked an all-black mid-riff baring turtle neck top, leather shorts and knee-length gladiator heels. The multi
award winner and multiplatinum selling artiste took the audience back in time with her famous 90s hit. Her take on Lagos was up on twitter barely after catching her breath.
Mary J. Blige
Rapper Plies Fractures Neck From 7 Kilo Gold Chain WHILE on set of his upcoming video, American rapper Plies fractured his neck. Paramedics were swiftly
Plies
called to the scene around 12pm. Plies laid unconscious from what onlookers are calling a “freak accident” after his 7kilo (15 pound) gold chain fractured his neck in three places. Despite rapper Plies desperate plea to stay connected to the streets, the hospital confirmed he has full health insurance and no priors as police ran a background check, because there were suspicions of foul play.
Young Madonna Was Raped At Knife Point
NEW York City wasn’t kind to Madonna before she became a pop icon, the star revealed in a frank essay in which she also discussed being raped at knifepoint. In an essay titled “Truth or Dare”, the 55-year-old wrote in Harper’s Bazaar magazine about her life. “The first year, I was held up at gunpoint, raped on the roof of a building I was dragged up to with a knife in my back, and had my apartment broken into three times. I don’t know why; I
had nothing of value after they took my radio the first time”.
Madonna
No Divorce For Khloe Kardashain DESPITE his refusal to go into rehab for drug addiction and pressure from family, Khloe
Deac. Adebisi Agunbaide
Khloe Kadashian & Lamar
Kardashian has taken no steps to divorce Lamar Odom because she is afraid he will die or kill himself if she does. According to a source, Khloe thinks divorce is “inevitable”. But she’s afraid if she files, Lamar will overdose and die or be pushed over the edge and commit suicide. Khloe we are told is just too afraid to pull the trigger. So for now, no divorce papers have been drawn up and there’s no plan for that to happen in the immediate future.
PERSPECTIVE
Leisure Time: An Ideal Time In Human
THERE is time allotted for everything people do on this planet earth. This time determines when to work and when not to work.. Leisure’ time are influenced by certain factors like education, age, job and environment. revolve’s around many Leisure is the workforms of activity as would free time enjoyed by be related in the history people and it can be of the ancient days. spent in various ways to Singing and story-time benefit the individual. are pastime enjoyed by Many times, people children. Their mothers don’t make constructive get them together and tell use of their leisure time them folk-tales as well as Apparently, leisure time sing to them. Sometime,
“Apparently, leisure time revolve’s around many forms of activity as would be related in the history of the ancient days. Singing and story-time are pastime enjoyed by children.”
By DORIS OGBUAFOR
young girls in the same age grade come together and go round the village singing and dancing as well as playing hide and seek games. In the moonlight, sports like wrestling are used for entertainment. It is enjoyed by young people and people of middle age. On the other hand, adults play Ludo, whot cards, ayo games etc. “Presently, leisure time has been influenced by Western education and the invention of technology. Instead of listening to folk-tales, singing and dancing, wrestling, etc, people now occupy themselves with reading of newspapers, magazines and story books. A
proper use of leisure time for reading of books helps to broaden one’s knowledge. Reading of books is one of the activities done during leisure time. Reading of books helps to acquire new information into what one did not know before and thereby alerting the brain. The knowledge obtained from reading during leisure time makes you withstand difficulty in interaction with colleagues. Furthermore, people engaged in listening to music, going to the cinema while those who do not like going to cinemas stay indoor to watch television. And also the invention of
Life
computer games and videocassette recorder, has limited out door activities. Many times, individuals don’t make good use of their spare time, and this inappropriate use of leisure will eventually result to non mental and body alertness, which therefore affects the health. Leisure time helps to unite homes. In this sense, the parentchildren relationship is intimate and wax stronger. During this
spare time with parents, the children can know more about their ancestry. Meanwhile, parents that use the leisure time for other business other than relaxation with their children will end up in a poor parent- children relationship. Therefore, leisure time is paramount to you, as an individual, it makes the body to feel cool and good after the tedious work done. Inadequate use of leisure times will be detrimental to the systems of the body. More so, it also make you look younger instead of growing old.
“A proper use of leisure time for reading of books helps to broaden one’s knowledge.”
FARM WATCH
How To Revive Agriculture And Farming A lot has been said about agriculture in Nigeria, some said it is dead, while some others say it is still alive. Whatever the case maybe, it is irrelevant what matters most are the way forward and that is the main purpose of this piece. Things that should be done by the government and all concerned to improve the standard of agriculture in Nigeria and agriculture in Africa as a whole are in this hub. The suggestions here, if implemented will save us from experiencing food crisis that many experts have already forecasted. Agriculture in Nigeria can only be revived if the points listed below and other useful points found in this page are all implemented. The availability of accessible road and transport system is a necessity for agriculture to thrive in Nigeria. Many farmers get discouraged when they remember the stress they will have to go through bringing their farm produce to the end user (consumers). The prices of the products are usually outrageous when they eventually hit the market. In as much as fertilizer is not the only way of nourishing our farms, the use of fertilizer in modern farming is still very much acceptable and should be made available. Industries that produce this should be encouraged by all concerned. Finance is the back bone of every worthwhile venture of which agriculture is one of them. Adequate financing of agriculture will surely boost agriculture in Nigeria. One way that the
By FAVOUR NOSAKHARE government can do this is to imbibe the culture of good financial management and strategic asset allocation technique into governance. This will ensure that funds are properly allocated and monitored for efficient utilization when allocated. There is no gain saying that agricultural produce will be better. The importation of certain farm produce should be banned from coming into this country so as to encourage the consumption of the locally manufactured farm produce. Rural
electrification will help preserve farm produce. If pest control and other necessary chemicals used in agriculture should be produced or better still subsidized for the farmers, I assure you that agriculture will become the toast of many. If government should spend one-tenth of what it spends on oil subsidy on agriculture, then farmers will be encouraged to do more than they are doing at the moment. Losses are inevitable in all works of life and need to be insured against. Farmers
should be encouraged to take up agriculture policies to help re-instate them in times of loss. Little is known about the existence of Nigeria Agric Insurance Corporation (NAIC) a body that is overseeing insurance in agriculture in Nigeria. Nigerians should be told about the impending danger of not taking our agricultural sector serious. Many of our citizens have forgotten the fact that food are produced by human beings and would one day be scare if we all should neglect food production. Also farmers should be given due respect and honours, it is painful to
“Finance is the back bone of every worthwhile venture of which agriculture is one of them. Adequate financing of agriculture will surely boost agriculture in Nigeria.”
observe the discriminating act shown to farmers in this country. Corruption in the federal ministry of agriculture has been one of the major causes of the appalling state of agriculture in Nigeria, until corruption is put in check, agriculture and other sectors of the Nigerian economy will not be healed of this ‘life threatening sickness of our dear country. There are agriculture best practices that can easily be adopted by Nigerians if we really want to reap from the numerous benefits of a viable agricultural sector in this our country Nigeria. Availability of functional
irrigation system will ensure that farm produce are available from time to time. Seasonal problems that characterized Nigeria’s food production will be effectively controlled if good scheme projects are commissioned and executed in Nigeria. Benefit Of Agriculture The benefits of agriculture are too many to list but here are just few of them to give you an idea of what we are missing as a nation.
Agriculture in Nigeria was a major employment sector before the discovery of crude oil in Nigeria. Until then, jobs were available for the poor citizens of Nigeria, then, graduates were nurtured to think in area of being self employed rather than depend on the jobs that are not available. The agricultural sector of Nigeria if revived will absorb more than half of the unemployed youths in this country. Agriculture can provide gainful employment to the youths of the Niger-Delta that have decided to pick up arms and ammunitions to fight the federal government and indeed the whole nation through the act of kidnapping and other forms of social vices. The fear of looming food crisis in Nigeria will be over if we can simply bring back the lost agricultural glory that we have as a nation. We have the land mass that will be enough to produce more than what we need and export to the outside world. Farm produce exportation will in no small way improve Nigeria’s balance of payment and foreign income. Over reliance on the oil sector in Nigeria is a source of worry to many people, especially those that have idea of the scientific estimate of crude depletion. The revival of the agricultural sector and other real sector of Nigeria’s economy will really benefit all and sundry. The operations of Banks in Nigeria are not even helping matters. They prefer financing trading activities more than the real sector of the economy. The reason for this widely condemned practice is that the trading businesses promise better and faster returns. The federal government of Nigeria in 2006 mandated banks to let go certain percent of their net profit specifically to finance the small and medium-scale enterprise (SME). Where all the contributions made by the banks went to cannot be explained by most Nigerians.
THERE was once a village in the riverine area of Nigeria, that was very close to a river called Takuma. The main occupation of the people in the village was fishing, they enjoyed fishing a lot until a day came when one of the
called mingi oporipi which has been eating their fishermen in the river. When they got home they told all the villagers what was responsible for the death of their fishermen. The villagers did not dare to go fishing or near the
Story Time decided to put an end to the situation and he was brave enough to call the other men that were remaining to go with him to the river to kill the sea monster, but they
The Sea Monster
fishermen went to the river to fish as usual but did not return. Another fisherman went to the same river to fish still did not return. Almost all the fishermen in the village had lost their lives in the process of going to the river to fish. The issue of fishermen going to the river without returning became a threat to every one in the village. The elders in the village thought about it, and decided to go to another land to see a sorcerer who will tell them why their fishermen died in the river. When they arrived in the sorcerer’s house, they were told to pay some amount of money for the ritual performance which was a necessary procedure. The sorcerer saw through his spiritual eyes that there is a strange fish
By BINITIE ROSELINE
river since they discovered the cause of the death of their
were all afraid of dying and so refused to go with him. He picked up
head for the river, when he got to the river he entered the river and immediately the sea monster saw him under the sea, It started to rush toward him to kill him like he did to others Okingi stood his ground, fought fearlessly and bravely with it and at the end the sea monster got tired of fighting and became so weak, Okingi killed it and that was the
With LOVETH OKPOKPO
123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890 123456789012345678901234567890121234567890
Poem
By BLESSING SALAMI
I Have A Little Box I have a little box where I put my books. I have a yellow box where I put my clothes. My box is made of wood, but very, very smooth
Life’s Beauty By IRENE ESIEMA ALEOGHO
fishermen. There was no other means of survival for the people. There was hunger in the land. One day a man called Okingi
courage to go alone instead of sitting at home in hunger and watch his family and people die, So he took his weapon and
end of mingi Oporipi the great threat to the people of Takuma. Okingi was made king to rule in the land.
The Boy And His Grandfather
IN the old days, it was not unusual to find several generations living together in one home. Usually, everyone lived in peace and harmony, but this situation caused problems for one man whose household included besides his wife and small son his elderly father. It so happened that the daughter-in-law took a dislike to the old man. He was always in the way, she suggested that he be removed to a small room apart from the house. Because the old man was out of sight, he
C
hildren’s World
was often neglected. Sometimes, he even went hungry. They did not take good care of him and during the rainy seasons, he often suffered from cold. One day, the little grandson visited his grandfather, “my little one the grandfather said, go and find a blanket and cover me. It is cold and I am freezing”. The small boy ran to the main house to look for a blanket and there he found one. Father, he said, please cut this blanket in half, his father asked why? What are you going to do
with it? Well, take the entire blanket, replied his father, but the boy refused. I cannot take it all, I want you to cut it in half so that I can save the other half for you when you are as old as grandpa. Then I will have it for you so you’ll not be cold. His son’s response made him realize how poorly he had treated his own father. The man then brought his father back into his home and ordered that a warm room be prepared. From that time on, he
took care of his father’s needs and visited him frequently, everyday.
Life is a song Written to be sang Life is a story Known to be told It is an experience Made for man’s knowledge If you can see That life is beautiful being in A story, a song and an experience Everyman will point fingers At Adam and Eve For eating the forbidden fruit.
RELIGION
The Church Where God Lives Is One IT is the purpose of God that His children live together in unity. The Church is one in Christ. Believers are expected to live together the same way they will live together in heaven. There are no separate heavens for different Believers. There is only one heaven for all Believers. Believers should not be divided against themselves. Christ was not divided against Himself. If people could first know where they are and where they are tending, they could better judge what to do, and how to do it. A house divided against itself cannot stand. A Union cannot endure permanently with some members half slave and some half free. If the Union ceases to be divided, it will not fall. If the union is divided, it will become all one thing, or all the other, If a Church is divided, it means all the members including Pastor will become candidates for hell. Either the opponents of the enemy will arrest the further spread of the enemies’, and place it where the public mind shall rest in the belief that the’ enemy is on the verge of extinction, or its advocate will push it forward, till it becomes like a lawful thing. Some advocates of wrong doctrines in the church have misled many people to believe that their doctrines will take the people to heaven. Some people refuse to be wearing earrings because they believe it is a sin but the same people will be wearing golden necklaces, golden rings and carrying golden bags. I know a woman who use to wear earrings, but suddenly, she stopped wearing them. When I asked her for the reason, she told me that she listened to a Cassette where the Preacher said these things are sin. A few weeks later, the same woman started wearing weavon and earrings. You see how the devil is using cassette to manipulate people. The woman realized that she was being deceived to make her look something else. Some people don’t donate or receive blood because they believe blood is life and should not be donated. But the same people believe that Christ shed His blood to
save mankind. He that shared His blood will also want you to share your own blood to save others. If instead of donating blood to save a person, you allow the person to die, you have committed murder and the sin will be counted against you. Num 35:33-4. Some extremists don’t believe in medication. When they are sick, they are either saved by their Pastor or they die. Did Christ not say that only a sick person request for a Physician? Due to misinterpretation of Scriptures, a lot of people have died ignorantly from
illness that could be diagnosed and treated by a Doctor. Some people are rushed to the hospital only when the, illness becomes complicated and the person is closer to the grave. Authorities are appointed by God and so we have to obey them. Only the things that are contrary, to the word of God we cannot obey. For example: telling Christians to shave their head when a person dies. We should ask
By PRINCE BAYO OKUO
God to raise somebody like Archbishop BA. Idahosa who can challenge authority that is asking you to live like the heathens. The Church is universal, whether Catholic, Protestant or Pentecostal; so are all .her actions. All that the Church does belongs to all. When a Church baptizes a child, that action connects you and me; for that child is thereby connected to that head which is in Christ Jesus, and ingrafted into that body whereof you and me are
war, some by justice; but God’s hand is in every translation, and the hand shall bind up all our scattered leaves again for that library where every book shall be open to one another. Therefore, the bell that rings to a Sermon calls not upon the Preacher only, but upon the Congregation to come, so this bell calls us all. Serve God fervently, whether you are a Christian or Muslem. If you are a Catholic, do not say Anglican is bad. If you are an Anglican, do not say
upon him, he is united to God: No man is an Island, entire of itself; everyman is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. This is why another person’s misfortune diminishes you because you are involved in mankind, and therefore never know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee. We must fetch in more than the next house, in taking upon us the misery of our neighbours. No man had affliction that is not matured and ripened by it and made fit for God’s use by that affliction. If a man carry
members. And when a Church buries a man, that action connects you and me, all mankind is of one Author, and all our names are written in one volume of book. When one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated. God employ several translators; some places are translated by age, some by sickness, some by
Catholic is bad. If you are ‘a Pentecostal, do not say your Church is better than other Churches. We are all worshipping One God. If we understand aright the dignity of this bell that tolls for our morning, afternoon and evening prayers, we would be glad to make it ours by rising early, so that it might be ours as well as HIS. The bell toll for someone that thinks it is him,’ and from that occasion that wrought
million of dollars in a bullion car and have not changed it into Nigerian currency, his dollars will not defray his travelling expenses within Nigeria. In every tribulation, there is a treasure in it, but it is not current money, except we change it by getting nearer and nearer to God. A man may be sick and dying and this affliction may lie in his body as a goldmine, and be of no use to him; but this bell
“No man is an Island, entire of itself; everyman is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. This is why another person’s misfortune diminishes you because you are involved in mankind, and therefore never know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee.”
that tells you of his affliction, digs out and applies that gold to you. By thinking of the person’s danger and applying it to your own case, you will secure yourself by making your recourse to God, who is our only security. The Union in the Church is with God in three-in-one person i.e. God the father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. The history of Christianity teaches us that the unity in the Church is as a mother would want her children to stand, be friendly to one another, and live in strong and steadfast bond. There are many Churches in the world today. But there is only one Church in terms of the principle and aim of the Church which is, bringing salvation to mankind through one Lord, one faith and one birth. In one wedding reception attended in Benin City, a Comedian thrilled everybody when he showed that in every alphabet, there is at least a Church bearing a name starting with each of the 26 alphabets. Some of the Churches have more than two branches. In this logical way, the Comedian was telling the people about the high level of proliferation of Churches in Edo State. In Christianity, the Community of Jesus Christ existed as a single Church for almost sixteen centuries. It was easy to identify the Church as One, Holy, Apostolic and Universal. The message and interpretation of Islam was one and universal during the time of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The efforts of human beings to proliferate the message of the Prophets by forming sects and denominations have not promoted the unity of believers in the history of religion. Unity brings strength, disunity brings weakness. Union in Christ means working together in harmony as labourers with God for the salvation of men. These who refuse to work in harmony are the enemies of God and greatly dishonor Him. The union with Christ and with one another is our only safety in this beginning of end time. Send your reaction on this message to ‘pbo1030ya hooCom’or 07055599615.
INSIGHT
Beat The Rain This Season
THE rain is here again big time! It is a well-known fact that women like to wear something nice and trendy that makes
and night hangout. The ideal clothing for this season should be comfortable and fit properly, rather than purely being trendy.
them look and feel real good when they wear it. A lot of people, women, inclusive worry so much this period regarding what to wear when going out. This is not the time to put on those floorsweeping attires that cause you to feel bad afterwards because they’ve been messed up. So what do I wear this period? You might ask. The hot style that you can dorn this season is all about free-spirited, feminine and electric clothing and accessories. The threequarter gown is still the ideal, especially for your shows, parties
So, what exactly does it mean to have clothes that fit you? Firstly, you have to beware of how your clothes feel when you put them on. You must find a balance between being warm and being too hot. The clothes also need to be flexible enough, to allow for a full range of movements. In the same vein, the clothing should be breathable and water proof. Avoiding denim and cotton are a must. Every woman is so different that it is very difficult to find clothes that really fit their bodies. Choose the one that suit you and the one you are fit into, as
it is very important that you feel comfortable in them. For your hair, this period, you have to ensure you take proper
because they give softer and more beautiful look to your face. But to keep the look meticulous, you need to maintain your
care, as the hair is a woman’s crowning glory irrespective of whether you like to wear them long or short, you need to put some springs in your looks with springing curly weavon and braids. Curly weave styles are a great way to improve your looks
braids or weave properly. Exposing hair to climatic changes like rain, humidity and cold weather can do major havoc on the health of your hair. In order to enhance hair growth and still look trendy, why not try some beautiful weavons most
especially the long ones, wigs or braids. Since it’s usually cold during the rain, long hair gives you warmth and makes your hair grow naturally without any artificial agents. While your hair is tucked under wraps, it is important to maintain your real hair by washing regularly with shampoo and adding moisturizer that will help revitalize your hair. It’s also important to make sure your hair extension is properly taken care of. You should keep it oily and healthy-looking by using moisturizer to help prevent further tangling. Oil-based moisturizers are not the best for curls, so don’t use pink oil moisturizers. Cream based moisturizers will also help reinvigorate your curls in the morning as you wake up. Never let hair extension exceed a month on your head. However, ladies, you can get a wig that is convenient and easy to wear or you can rather get your stylist to choose a silky weavon that would suit your face type. Deciding to choose a curly weavon, straight or long braids, all depends on your
personality. If you want to have a casual look, you can go for the curly extension while braids and straight weavons are more appropriate for official events. Know that hair extension give you elegant, classy and natural look and if you want to recreate the saloon fresh look at home you can ask your stylist for a few tips to follow before leaving the saloon. You may be surprised that with just a few tweaks, you’ll be looking as good as new. Remember, before going to bed at night, be sure to cover your hair. Tossing and turning in your sleep is probably not the best way to keep your curls looking great, so a silk scarf or a hair net will keep your hair and reduce tangling which is the bane of all curly styles. So ladies, if you want to look your best allyear round especially in the rain, you need to put the above tips into practice and watch heads turn to your direction where-ever you go. Remain blessed till next Sunday.
“Exposing hair to climatic changes like rain, humidity and cold weather can do major havoc on the health of your hair.”
INTERVIEW HON. Elizabeth Uyimwen Ativie, the only female member of Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) as from Wednesday this week will flag off an unprecedented and a historic medical
the Reporter that she took part of the constituency project money, added part of her savings to it to purchase a state of the art mobile clinic at a whopping sum of N17 million. According to her, the
operators have since taken over the running of the mobile clinic. In addition, the legislator displayed her managerial expertise by orchestrating a fool proof organogram that breaks her free medical
Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State. Their responsibility is to sensitize the people of Uhunmwode, ward by ward on the new dawn of a new era of free health programme
subsequently attach her final year Medical Students to Ativie’s humanitarian free medical outreach, for a period of three weeks at a define time. The positive implication of this, is that Uhunmwode Local
been bought for the free health campaign exercise. Asked where the passion to do all these flows from, she said it is inate and that right from her formative years, she has always desired to
Hon Ativie Make History With Mobile Medical Outreach
outreach to her constituents in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State writes Raymond Osogbe, our Royal correspondent. It is astonishing to see a Nigerian Leader, a state legislator for that matter, practically displaying such much passion for her people’s wellbeing. Hon. Ativie is actually so laden with emotion regarding giving back to her locality, that she has always been occupied with the thought of how to touch the lives of her constituents in a holistic way. According to her, an answer to this lingering problem unveiled itself when she was offered funds for her constituency project. The legislator who is also a trained nurse told
A mobile clinic
By RAYMOND OSOGBE
mobile clinic consists of any relevant modern facilities available in any up dated hospitals in the world. She said the mobile clinic also includes a chemical producing machine that is capable of producing chemicals that lower and regulate high blood pressure among others. She also disclosed that foreign experts from Germany who supplied the mobile clinic were in Nigeria to train local hands that will take charge of the mobile clinic. The issue of efficient operations of the gigantic mobile clinic is since laid to rest as local
outreach mission into three critical parts each of these parts are closely knitted and quite interrelayed. The three organs are: The Advisory Committee, the management committee and the local organizing committee. The Advisory Committee Companies seasoned Medical Personnel and other o u t s t a n d i n g professionals. In the same vein, the management committee consists of medical and para medical gurus whose track records are quite outstanding. The local organizaing committee comprises the ten wards in
sponsored by Hon. Elizabeth Uyinmwen Ativie. It is the responsibility of the local organizing committee LOC members to make adequate preparations in advance before the arrival of the medical outreach team to any community A critical appraisal of the Ativie led free medical outreach mission reveals that, she is bound to succeed and thus make history as one legislator that has a humane mind. Regarding medical and para-medical personnel that will give the outreach its desired boost, the legislator disclosed that, her outreach is not threatened by dearth of personnel. She said that, presently ten Doctors which includes seasoned surgeons, three optometrists Pharmacists and other para-medical staff are ready for the humanitarian voyage. In addition, she unfolded that the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) has also attached a medical doctor to her medical outreach. Beyond that, she amazed the Reporter when she said that she has gotten approval from the authorities of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) to
Hon. Elizabeth Uyimwen Ativie
Government Area that does not have a general hospital will be besieged once in while by hundreds of medical doctors on a humanitarians mission, courtesy of Ativie free medical outreach. The first leg of the Ativie led free medical outreach commences on Wednesday at Ewan Community located at Isi-South Ward in Uhunmwode. The first leg tour will take the mobile clinic and her round ten villages in ten days. Hon. Ativie said necessary steps have been taken to make the historic trip a tremendous success, just as she hinted that, drugs worth millions of Naira have
serve. It will be recalled that the mobile clinic was earlier commissioned by Comrade Governor Adams Oshiomhole and as well blessed by the Benin Royal Monarch Oba Erediauwa. In the light of the latter, Ativie is surely and definitely going to succeed in her quest to bring succour to the afflicted in a world that is filled with hardened hearts. Our earnest prayer is that God should crown her noble and movel effort with a resounding success and as well to touch the hearts of our leaders to always be fanatically passionate about eradicating poverty from our homeland.
Germany Boss Loew Set To Extend DFB Congract GERMANY’s Joachim Loew has said he expects to agree to extend his contract past the 2014 World Cup — and prolong his seven-year reign - after his team booked their Brazil berth. Germany confirmed their World Cup place with a 3-0 win over the Republic of Ireland on Friday in Cologne ahead of Tuesday’s final qualifier against Sweden in Stockholm. Having succeeded Jurgen Klinsmann as Germany coach after the 2006 World Cup, the 53-year-old Loew has steered Germany to the Euro 2008 final and semifinal spots at both Euro 2012 and the 2010 World Cup. Under Loew, Germany have won 67 of their 98 matches and his contract with the German Football Federation (DFB) will expire after the 2014 World Cup. “I still have to talk to (DFB president) Wolfgang Niersbach, there is no need to rush anything,” said Loew. “But I am confident we will come to an agreement. “It won’t happen today, it won’t happen tomorrow, but we have had an initial discussion and discussed some general parameters.” Loew is keen to avoid his previous contract extensions in 2010 which overshadowed Germany’s build-up to that year’s World Cup and he eventually signed a deal in 2011.
Bale Diagnosed With Slipped Disc
Stevan Jovetic of Montenegro clashes with Andres Townsend of England during their Hroup H Cup Qualifier
World Cup Qualifier
Hodgson Wary Of Wounded Poland
MANAGER Roy Hodgson warned England not to take Poland lightly in their final World Cup qualifier next week after they took another stride towards Brazil with a 4-1 win over Montenegro. Debutant Andros Townsend was England’s match-winner at Wembley Stadium on Friday, helping to create Wayne Rooney’s 48th-minute opener before killing off Montenegrin hopes of a comeback with a fine late strike. The victory preserved England’s lead at the top of European qualifying Group H and means they can secure a berth at next year’s tournament in Brazil if they overcome Poland at Wembley on Tuesday. England were wobbling when Townsend struck in the 78th
minute, with Dejan Damjanovic having brought the visitors back into the game after an own goal from Branko Boskovic doubled the home side’s advantage. The Spurs man found the back of the net with a right-foot shot from 25 yards that crashed home off the right-hand post, with Daniel Sturridge adding a fourth goal from the penalty spot in added time. Poland’s 1-0 defeat by Ukraine in Kharkiv means that they can no longer qualify for the World Cup, but Hodgson told his players not to expect an
Falcao Brace Sends Colombia Through TWO Radamel Falcao penalties saw Colombia come from three goals down to clinch their place at the World Cup with a 3-3 draw against 10-man Chile. Nestor Pekerman’s side reached the 27-point mark and secured their place in Brazil next year alongside Argentina, who had already qualified, while Chile will have to wait until the last round of matches. During the first half, the Cafeteros started better, but Chile began to cause problems on the counterattack and in the 17th minute goalkeeper David Ospina felled striker Eduardo Vargas inside the box. Midfielder Arturo Vidal did not fail from the spot. Chile took advantage of Colombia’s confusion after the goal and five minutes later forward Alexis Sanchez doubled the advantage after great work from playmaker Jorge Valdivia. Before the half-hour mark,
Barcelona’s Sanchez clinched the third for La Roja after he connected with Marcos Gonzalez’s header near the sixyard box. Colombia came out fighting in the second half and Chile needed goalkeeper Claudio Bravo to produce a string of saves to preserve their three-goal advantage. However, in the 65th minute Chile midfielder Carlos Carmona saw his second yellow, and three minutes later River Plate forward Teo Gutierrez scored to put his side back in it. Visiting defender Francisco Silva pushed playmaker James Rodriguez inside the box in the 74th minute and striker Falcao pulled another one back from the spot. Then with seven to go, keeper Bravo fouled James Rodriguez and Falcao, once again, converted the spot-kick to level the encounter and the the Barranquilla stadium exploded. In Quito, Ecuador joined
Chile on 25 points with a 1-0 triumph against Uruguay, which put them on the brink of World Cup qualification.
easy ride on Tuesday. “I watched them. In the first half they played very well against Ukraine. They had the best goal-scoring opportunities,” he said. “If they play as well against us on Tuesday as they did against Ukraine in the first half, it will be a tough game. “But I always back the players. I trust them. We are still unbeaten in this qualifying
group. “We are capable of going unbeaten in the 10th one (game) and with the backing we got from the fans and playing at Wembley, I have got to back them. I would be foolish not to.” England will be without Kyle Walker against Poland after he picked up a booking against Montenegro that triggered a one-game suspension.
WAYNE Rooney has hailed the strength of England’s “exciting” attacking talents following a convincing 4-1 win over Montenegro at Wembley. Heading into the first of two final qualifying games for the World Cup, the Three Lions knew only maximum points would guarantee a place at next summer’s tournament - and controlled the game with over
60 per cent possession. Rooney opened the scoring early in the second half after a frustrating opening 45 minutes, before an own goal by Branko Boskovic, a stunning 25-yard debut goal by Andros Townsend and a Daniel Sturridge penalty sealed the three points. “It was great,” Rooney told Sky Sports. “Exciting, with a lot of speed and with experience of Steve [Gerrard] and Frank [Lampard] behind us. “The manager gave us the freedom and platform to go out and express ourselves and I
• Gareth Bale
. . . Rooney Lauds Exciting England
Hungary Coach Resigns After Dutch Mauling
HUNGARY coach Sandor Egervari resigned immediately after his country’s 8-1 drubbing by the Netherlands in their penultimate World Cup qualifier on Friday night. “After a loss like this it goes without saying that I must offer my resignation,” he told reporters in Amsterdam after the Group D loss saw Hungary drop from second to fourth and unlikely to secure the runnersup spot and a play-off place. “For Hungarian football this loss is a massive slap in the face.” Former international Jozsef Csabi will take charge of their
SPANISH daily Marca have claimed that Gareth Bale is suffering from a slipped disc in his back. The Wales international has only played twice since his record-breaking move from Tottenham over the summer. And the Madrid-based newspaper have confirmed that is because the attacker has been diagnosed with a slipped disc in his L5 – S1 vertebrate, and a bulge in his L4 – L5. It won’t keep him on the sidelines any longer for Los Blancos, but further down the line it could require surgery. Bale himself though, has insisted that he is feeling no pain.
final match against Andorra in Budapest on Tuesday, the federation said on its website.
• Sandor Egervari
thought the four of us did that, especially Andros [Townsend], that was some debut.” Rooney commended Montenegro for their performance, but believes his opening goal was key to breaking down the side England have failed to beat on all three previous occasions. “It was a tough game,” he continued. “First half they defended deep and defended well but we still created a few opportunities. So we came in at half-time knowing we could create chances against Montenegro. “I think getting the goal so early in the second half was vital and we excelled after that and deserved the three points. “I think you saw a weight come off everyone’s shoulders. It was always going to be a night where we had to be patient and try and break them down but getting that goal was vital for us.” England host Poland on Tuesday with a second-place finish all but guaranteed, while Ukraine will look to take advantage of any slip up when they travel to San Marino.
Milo Football Clinic: Rufai Discovers 32 By KEHINDE OSAGIEDE
THE Fourth Edition of Milo Football Clinic tagged ‘Let’s Build Champions’ organized for U-13 students ended in Benin City yesterday as 32 raw talents were discovered by the coordinating Coach Peter Rufai. The Edo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Lady Omorede Osifo and Chief Abel Ehigie, Chairman Edo Footballl Association were at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium to witness the presentation of the young stars to Edo
Government for further nurturing. The five-day football programme which was aimed at discovering and training 14,000 students from seven cities – Abuja, Benin, Portharcourt, Enugu, Akure, Abeokuta and Lagos, had about 2,000 Benin students who registered trimmed to 200 before the emergence of the 32 finalists after rigorous training sessions anchored by some Ex-Internationals under the supervision of Coach Peter Rufai. The former Super Eagles
Egypt Handed FIFA Deadline Over Play-Off FIFA has given the Egyptian Football Association an October 28 deadline to provide a comprehensive security assurances ahead of the secondleg of the 2014 World Cup playoff. The world’s football governing body wants to assure the North African country are capable of hosting the Black Stars on 19 November. The deteriorating security concerns in the country prompted Ghana to ask FIFA to move the game from Cairo. At least 57 were killed in clashes between supporters of ousted president Mohamed Morsi and his opponents and security forces on 6 October as Islamists marched nationwide on the 40th anniversary of Egypt’s war against Israel. In a letter sent to the football
associations of Ghana and Egypt, FIFA said Egypt has 17 days to provide security guarantees and reveal their security plan for the game, which would then be assessed by the world governing body. It read: “Although all our hopes and wishes sincerely expect that the security situation will go back to normal in a definite manner we would need to consider alternatives in the event that this were not the case in November.” “We will this keep monitoring the situation as possibly revert to you with additional request/ enquiries in due course.” The return leg is scheduled to be played at the army-owned Air Defence Stadium in Cairo. Ghana host Egypt in the first leg in Kumasi on Tuesday 15 October.
HEARTLAND FC of Owerri on Friday dismissed the speculations that the club was on the verge of being expelled from the league by the League Management Company (LMC). The club’s Media Officer, Cajetan Nkwopara, told
newsmen in Lagos on telephone that there was no impending threat from the LMC to expel the club. “The LMC has given no such order to Heartland. There is no case or even a petition that they are abandoning games or striking. “This is a false allegation, everything is peaceful and we are working on everything so there is no cause for alarm,’’ he said. Reports say that the Owerri based club had been embroiled in some internal crisis that bordered on the outstanding wages of their players. A development that had threatened the club’s participation in the ongoing league, which would have contravened Article 4.2 (3) of the LMC’s statutes, which says that clubs should not stay
Talents In Benin
goalkeeper who expressed satisfaction with turnout of students from various schools in Benin and support of Edo Government, thanked Milo for the opportunity given him to still continue to give back to Nigeria. The Tunisia 1994 AFCON Winner however expressed confidence in the 32 players discovered, adding that goal keepers and strikers better than Peter Rufai and Austin Okocha, would be found among the kids in future. “We have been able to discover children that can represent Nigeria in future. The most important thing and benefit of this football clinic is the modern techniques and skills that have been imparted on the kids. It is secretly practiced in Europe. It helps to develop kids’ mental alertness along with physical and health benefits,” Rufai emphasised. Rufai added that the clinic will also help to correct the negative news of age cheat about Nigerian players.
Meanwhile, Team B emerged winners after thrashing Team A 6-3 in the novelty match played by the 32 finalists to draw the
Peter Rufai
... Tells Keshi, Eagles To Remain Focus
FORMER Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has advised Coach Stephen Keshi and his team to be focus as they engage the Ethiopian senior national team on Sunday. Rufai gave the advice when he
Heartland Spokesman Dismisses away from consecutive LMC Sanction matches.
Aminu Maigari
“We went to their various schools to see their profiles in order to know their true age before registering them for the clinic.” He said.
curtains on the event. However, certificates of participation, Milo customized school bag, football as well as N40,000 and N20,000 were given to Team B and A players respectively.
It was against the backdrop of the impending expulsion of Heartland from the league that Nkwopara debunked the stories making the round that the club would be expelled by the LMC. The media officer stressed that the players were in training for their upcoming match, against El-Kanemi Warriors FC in Owerri and that there was no sign of a conflict in the team’s camp. “They are in camp training for their next match which is at home, that was a misinformed report the LMC cannot sanction with no basis,’’ Nkwopara added. Heartland are currently 15th on the Globacom League table with 46 points from 35 matches, their next outing is against El-Kanemi Warriors FC of Maiduguri in Owerri on October 13.
visited Mrs Omorede Osifo, the Edo Commissioner for Youths and Sports in Benin on Friday. He predicted that the match would be tough, and advised Keshi and his players to avoid any form of distraction from their opponent. Rufai, who commended the present crops of players in the national team, said that all they needed to emerge victorious was to remain focus. “Keshi and the Super Eagles should not consider the Ethiopian team weak since they
have come this far. “The Super Eagles must be careful because the Ethiopians will come out with all forms of distractions to ensure they win the match. “Our players and handlers should and must prepare to overcome these distractions, especially the issue of bumpy pitch,” he said. Asked in which department of the game he considers the Super Eagles stronger, Rufai
responded: “Football is a team game and one department does not win a match. “Presently, the Super Eagles are good in every department of the game, from the coaching crew to the attack,’’ he said. Osifo appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to increase the match bonus for the players and coaches in the match against Ethiopia. “Increased bonus will serve as an encouragement for the team,’’ she said, and predicted a 3-1 victory in favour of the Super Eagles.
develop their potential and compete favourably in various athletics events. “My vision is for us to have a number of competent athletes that can represent in track and field events, we cannot be putting all our eggs in one basket. “We will be going to schools to scout for kids that are talented in this sport, put them in the academy and begin to nurture them from the grassroots to stardom. “Nigeria has come of age. We have to face reality and stop being sloppy about sports development in the country. I want to identify with athletics development,” she said. The long jump medalist urged students to create time and
develop their talents in any sport of their choice. She also advised them to be disciplined and determined, saying that those were the virtues crucial to the success of an athlete. “In spite of the family challenges I encountered, I was able to make a lasting impression on my career because I was disciplined and focused. “Today, through sports I have been able to make a name for myself, my family and the country and as I speak I am a graduate of UNILAG,’’ Ajunwa said. According to her, sports will give youths an opportunity to travel round the world and become celebrities irrespective of their background.
Ajunwa To Establish Sports Academy A gold medalist in the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games, Chioma Ajunwa, has pledged to set up an Athletics Academy to groom athletes who would represent Nigeria at international competitions. Ajunwa made the announcement at the celebration of the International Day for the Girl-Child. The theme of the celebration, held at the National Stadium, Suruere, Lagos is: “Innovating for Girls Education.” Reports say that Ajunwa’s gold in the long jump event was Nigeria’s first medal in the history of the Olympics. She said her plan was to discover and nurture a good number of athletes who could
Ethiopia Coach Says It’s Victory club ETHIOPIA coach Or Nothing continental competition. Due to this Sewnet Bishaw has said his team have no option but to beat mighty Nigeria on Sunday to move closer to the 2014 World Cup. Bishaw spoke with Cafonline.com ahead of the weekend match. The interview: What are your expectations for Sunday’s match? Bishaw: We have never reached the World Cup final before, but we believe there is time for Ethiopia to get a place in that global football bonanza. This year we have reached this decisive group of 10, where we have only two matches to play to make the World Cup finals. It is a do-or-die situation. I personally believe that on Sunday we don’t have any other option than to win
Victor Moses
Nigerians Charge Eagles To Beat Boastful Ethiopia
A cross section of Nigerians on Friday in Abuja urged the Super Eagles to go for victory as they take on the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia on Sunday in Addis Ababa. The encounter is the first leg of the play off for the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup ticket. Nigeria will host the second leg on Nov.16 in Calabar. Mohammed Sanusi, the NFA’s Director of Competitions, said he believed that the Super Eagles would go to Addis Ababa and get the job done. “This is what we want from them, to have the confidence and belief that they can get the job done. If the job is done there, it makes it easier in Calabar.’’ Sanusi advised the Eagles to approach the match as a one-legdo-or-die encounter. “They must see the game in Ethiopia as the final; that must be their mentality and approach going into this game,’’ he added. Colins Udoh, a journalist and sports analyst, said that although the Ethiopians had a good team, the Super Eagles were the better side. “I have covered the Super Eagles for more than10 years now. Usually when you visit on the first day of training, you see players just trying to get used to each other again. “However, in this case, right from day one, we saw an intense training and the players have been pushing themselves hard for this encounter.’’ Udoh noted that Coach Steven Keshi had continually explained
to the boys in training, the need for them to fight and win the ball. “He (Keshi) has made it clear to the boys that they must play with intensity and concentration, the only way they will defeat the Ethiopians. “I think this is a good sign. If they can translate what they are doing in training on the pitch on Sunday, then when you look at it, man-for-man, we have got more quality than the Ethiopians,” he said. The Secretary of the Nigeria Football Association in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Ibrahim Abdullahi, advised the Super Eagles against losing concentration, stressing that they must fight till the end. “We have got all it takes. We have quality players like Mikel Obi, Victor Moses, Emmanuel Emenike, Ogenyi Onazi, who can easily dictate and win this game for us. “These guys are mentally toughened. This is not the first time they will be meeting the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia. “They have done it before, and I believe they will do it again to show that it was no fluke,’’ he said. Godwin Bamigboye, the Chairman of the Nigeria Football Coaches Association, FCT Chapter, said he admired the sense of purpose among the players. “They have shown it at the 2013 African Nations Cup (AFCON) in South Africa. “Although, their Confederation Cup campaign did not go too
well, all the same I admire their sense of purpose, and I think it will earn them a very good result in Addis Ababa,’’ he said. A board member of the FCT Football Association, Mr Zachari Musa, noted that the cautions Echiejile, Oboabona and Onazi got in the past would not deter them from giving their best. “There is always the danger and risk of picking up cautions when you play football. “But Onazi especially is someone I know that gives
everything when he is on the field of play, without holding anything back; the same goes for the others. “I remember asking Oboabona how he will approach the game, and his response to me was: If a player goes out there thinking about missing the second leg, you might not be able to give your best.’’ He added: “The best thing is to go there and play your game and whatever happens can happen.’’ NAN reports that Sunday’s match at the National Stadium in Addis Ababa will kick off 4 p.m. Ethiopian time, which is 2 p.m. Nigerian time.
The Nigerians are highly favoured to go through, but you sound confident of a win over a strong opponent, why is that? I know that Nigeria is one of the football power houses of Africa. They have appeared four times at the World Cup finals in 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2010. But one must be aware that it’s not always the strong side that wins in the football competition. The results are determined after 90 minutes. We are the outsiders from the start. Nigerians didn’t get this big name by one swoop. Our successive wins in the qualifiers have given us belief and we have risen on the FIFA ranking. Within Africa we have already begun to gain reputation. So now we target to win over the strong Nigerian side and aim to take our country to the World Cup finals. The home fans expect you to deliver. This is a football match. We go to the pitch to win. But this doesn’t mean that the team that really wants success the most will win. If there is a set- back, we have to accept it. This is football. We will do everything possible to win, but if that is not realised our home fans must prepare themselves to accept the result as it is. Some of the national players featured in
... No Injury Worries For Eagles
SUPER Eagles coach Stephen Keshi said on Friday in Abuja there were no injury worries after the team rounded off its training before heading to Addis Ababa. Reports say that the Eagles will leave Abuja on Saturday morning for Sunday’s match against Ethiopia’s Walya Antelopes. The match is the first leg game in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final elimination play-offs, and is scheduled for Addis Ababa, with the return leg on Nov. 16 in Calabar. Keshi told newsmen the team was in high spirits ahead of the game, and expressed happiness that none of the players in camp was nursing injury. “Thank God we have concluded our training successfully here in Abuja. The remaining job will be completed in Addis Ababa on Saturday and Sunday,’’ he said.
Goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, the team captain, urged Nigerians to pray for the team. He said the match in Addis Ababa could be the decider for both teams, even though he was sure the Eagles would emerge from the encounter victorious. “We just had our final training session and I guess that is what we really need to do, to keep training and keep working hard for the game in Ethiopia. “It is a very important game for us and we know it will be tough, but we are aware of what is at stake and we want to be there in Brazil,’’ Enyeama said. Emmanuel Emenike, a Super Eagles striker, said the Eagles were a better side, even though the Walya Antelopes were a good side. “The Ethiopians must be a
good team to have got to this stage. So, it is not going to be an easy game. “But we promise to give our best, and attack them from start to finish. We will be punished if we sit back and allow them dictate the pace of the game,’’ he said.
Ideye
they were not together with others. Will this affect you? Well almost all players have been together since mid -September. At first we had two times training in a day, but now we do only once a day. Their condition is quite good, the spirit is high and they are highly inspired to make history for their country and themselves. Your side’s top striker Getaneh Kebede is injured. Do you think he will be ready for Sunday? Yes, Getaneh had injury problems while playing for his club in South Africa and has been sidelined for some time. After joining the national side this week I didn’t get an assurance from the doctors that he will be fit to play the coming Sunday. He is a key player for us, but if he is not fit we have others equally good strikers. The good news is that all other players are in good health. Saladin Said, Shimeles Bekele and Addis Hintsa, who have returned from their clubs, are in good form. So there is no worry in the absence Getaneh Kebede.
... As Walya Antelopes Get Cash Boost ETHIOPIA have received a huge cash boost ahead of a 2014 World Cup playoff on Sunday against African champions Nigeria. The immediate past Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) president Sahlu Gebremariam presented a total sum of 176,000 US Dollars (3.35 Birr) cash reward to the team. Each player who featured in the 2-1 win over Central Africa Republic including coach Sewnet Bishaw received $5,300 (100,000 Birr) each. Other members of the squad received starting from $1,100 (20,000 Birr). Bishaw expressed his admiration for the outgoing EFF leadership, saying his team have enjoyed a good working relationship with them for the last two years. It was with this good relationship he said his team were able to able to discharge their responsibilities in a professional manner
Cabaye Says Failed Arsenal Move Difficult To Swallow NEWCASTLE United midfielder Yohan Cabaye has explained that his failed move to Arsenal was difficult to swallow at first. Talking to the Telegraph, the French midfielder explained that it was difficult to come to terms with the failed move but that he holds no grudge adding that he is yet again fully focused on helping Newcastle United. Cabaye refused to play for
the Magpies at the start of the season as he looked to force a move to Arsenal in the summer transfer window, Newcastle though rejected the bid and Cabaye later apologised to the fans. “Was my failed transfer to Arsenal difficult to swallow? At first yes,” explained the 27-year old. “But you have to quickly get focussed again, because if you go on thinking about it
Loew To Celebrate 100th Football Match Against Italy
you have a grudge against a lot of people and that is useless. “I quickly forgot about it and got back to work. Cabaye concluded that only one person can reveal the truth behind the situation. “The only person who can explain what happened is Joe Kinnear [Newcastle Director of Football]. If he is honest, he will tell it. Otherwise it will not get out of my mouth.
Paul Pogba Plays Down Exit PAUL Pogba has insisted he agent would deal with such Talk is happy at Juventus and did matters, adding: “My focus is little to encourage talk of a move to Paris Saint-Germain. Pogba’s future has been subject to speculation in Italy after club president Andrea Agnelli said this week: “I’m trying to think of what will be in two or three years’ time if we get a massive offer for one of the best talents we’ve got today, Pogba, the French 20year-old. “Will we be able to retain him? I don’t know. I don’t think, at the moment, we have the strength to retain such a player.” However, the player’s agent, Mino Raiola, then calmed talk of an exit, telling Tuttosport: “Nobody in the world can refuse a ridiculous offer, but Paul is happy and relaxed in Turin. Paul wants to renew his contract and no offers have arrived for him.” On what might happen if an offer did arrive, he added: “The club would not need to worry.” Pogba also did nothing to suggest he would be pushing for a move when interviewed by Sky Italia after France’s 60 win over Australia at PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium. Asked whether his enjoyment of playing in Paris had been affected by Agnelli’s remark, he insisted: “No, no, no — I’m with France now and
I’m thinking about doing well here. Later, when I return to Juve, I will think about Juve.” Pressed on how he felt about PSG’s reported interest, he said: “I don’t know. As I’ve said before, I’m at Juve. We haven’t talked about the contract or anything else yet. I’m happy at Juventus.” He then stressed that his
on football.” Juve’s Simone Padoin, speaking after Italy’s 2-2 draw with Denmark, told Sky that Pogba is an “incredible player, destined to become the strongest midfielder in the world” and said: “Of course, speaking for myself and for all the Juventus fans, we really hope Paul can stay with us.”
Iago Aspas
Aspas Frustrated By Lack Of Liverpool Starts
NEW signing Iago Aspas admits that he has yet to settle in at Liverpool as he struggles to make his mark on the first team. difficult. The 26-year-old striker “I’m finding it hard to be a arrived at Anfield for a fee of sub at Liverpool having around +9 million from Celta started games in the past few Vigo during the close-season years,” he told the Daily with a big reputation, having Mail. scored 35 league goals in his “When I left Celta Vigo I previous two seasons in was aware that to start for Spain. Liverpool wasn’t going to be The return of Luis Suarez easy. after his 10-match ban for “And now the team is biting Branislav Ivanovic and winning and we are among the form of England striker the leaders in the Premier Daniel Sturridge mean that League, it’s much harder to Aspas has been reduced to a get a game.” bit-part role in recent weeks, Sturridge and Suarez have which he admits to finding formed a superb partnership
to help fire Liverpool to second in the table, with 11 goals between them in all competitions already this term. But Aspas is convinced that he can still work his way back
Joe Allen Eager For Reds Comeback JOE Allen has admitted to feeling useless during his long absence from the Liverpool side. The Wales midfielder has barely played since March as a result of injury problems.
Sunday Pools GuideIn Week 14Race Chelsea Lose Ground Title
Milton KD; Oldham For “X” Says DR. J.K. POOLS
A critical examination of the 49 programmed fixtures of this week 14 matches to be played on 19th and 20th October, 2013, I fancy Milton KD vs Rotherham and Oldham vs. Carlisle for an “X” at the weekend. They are again No. 24 and 25. In the same vein, Northampton vs Dageham at 38 and Portsmouth vs Bury at 39. In summary, No. 24-25-38 and 39, for at least two draws. Scanning through Premiership I have soft spot for a draw from Everton vs Hull at No. 4, stoke vs Westbrom at No. 6 and Swansea vs Sanderland at 7 for one draw must on Saturday. A visit to the Championship Division, Barasley vs Middlebro at 9, Leicester vs Bourmouth at 16 for an “X”. In Division one, Brentford vs Colchester at 20, Crewe vs Bristol C at 22; Gillingham vs Preston at 23; Milton KD vs Rotherham at 24, Oldham vs Carlisle at 25 for at least three draws. A look at English division two, I see the possibility of Chesterfield vs. Burton A at 34, Northpton vs. Dagenham at 38 and portsmouth vs Bury at 39 for two draws.
In the Scottish Divisions, Aberdeen vs. Dundee Utd at 42, Kilmarnock vs Rosscounty at 45 and St. Mirren vs St. John-stone at 47 for an inevitable one draw come rain or sun at the weekend. All readers of the Sunday OBSERVER pools Guide should try as much as possible to keep weekly records in order to see the wonders of Dr. J.K. Pools as from this week. 8 Treble Chances 1. Barnsley 2. Blackburn 3. Everton 4. Stoke 5. Milton KD 6. Oldham 7. Northpton 8. Portsmouth
vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs.
into boss Brendan Rodgers’ plans. “I hope to carry on working hard and little by little to get more game time with Liverpool,” he added. “I want to change the current situation.”
GERMANY coach Joachim Loew will celebrate his 100th game in charge with a friendly against Italy in Milan on November 15, the German Football Federation (DFB) confirmed on Saturday. Having taken charge after the 2006 World Cup, Germany have won 67 of their 98 games under the 53-year-old Loew. The Germans confirmed their World Cup place with a 3-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in Cologne on Friday. Germany face Sweden in Stockholm on Tuesday in their final World Cup qualifier, then play the Azzurri on November 15, who have already booked their Brazil 2014 place. “It is always our wish to play teams who are amongst the world’s best,” said Loew, after Italy beat Germany 2-1 in the Euro 2012 semi-finals on their last meeting. “It’s good for our development when we play teams at a high level.” Loew has also said Germany could then potentially face England in another friendly on November 19. The fixture is dependant on the Three Lions securing their World Cup place ahead of the planned play-off matches on November 15 and 19 with England needing to beat Poland at Wembley on Tuesday to go through.
Middlebrow Charlton Hull Westbrom Rotherham Carlisle Dagenham Bury
0-0 0-0 1-1 1-1 2-2 2-2 3-3 3-3
3 Hot Pairs (A) 24-25, (B) 20-23, (C) 38-39. Good luck, says Dr. J.K. Pools. Box: 34, Irrua or Opposite Police Station, Irrua, Edo State.
He missed the final two months of last season as he recovered from surgery to correct a long-standing shoulder problem. And having returned at the start of this season, he then picked up a hamstring injury during the 4-2 Capital One Cup victory over Notts County on August 27. Without Allen, Liverpool have continued an impressive start to the season, which has taken them to second place in the Premier League, behind leaders Arsenal on goals scored. The 23-year-old hopes to be available for his side’s first game after the international break, away to Newcastle next Saturday. He told Liverpool’s official website: “When you’re injured, you almost feel useless because you can’t get out there and help the team. But I’m finally getting there. I’m almost there, basically. The plan is to get back into training, get a good few days leading up to the Newcastle game and hopefully I’ll be available for selection from
there on. “I thought I would get back for the Wales games but unfortunately they just came a bit soon. But it has meant that I got a bit of extra rehab leading up to that game. I have been able to get ready.” Allen made a bright start to life at Liverpool following his £15 million move from Swansea in August 2012, but has struggled to make an impact since. He admitted to being frustrated by his latest injury setback, but hopes to come back stronger. “It’s easy to feel sorry for yourself,” he added. “Unfortunately, you can be unlucky and these things can happen. You’ve got to deal with it in the best way possible. I think the best way to do that is to look further forward at the end product of doing all your rehab — getting back out there playing and doing what you love. “With the timing of the injury, I hadn’t really got into the swing of things. This is a fresh start of the season for me personally. It is great to come back with the team doing so well.”
CMYK
Landlord Vs Tenants:
Commission Urges Tenants To Report Cases of Maltreatment By Landlords PROF. Bem Angwe, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission has advised tenants to report cases of forceful eviction and other forms of maltreatment to the commission. Angwe, who gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Abuja, also advised tenants to report same to security agencies for legal actions to be taken against such landlords. Amgwe said it was criminal for landlords to take laws into their hands, adding that the commission would not hesitate to prosecute landlords who take advantage of ignorant tenants to breach contract. “In every state of the federation there are laws regulating the relationship between landlords and tenants. “We must remember at all times that the relationship between a landlord and tenant is contractual and the landlord cannot on his own arbitrarily maltreat a tenant.
“The landlord needs to act in accordance with the terms of the contract existing between them,” he said. He also called on the media to sensitise the public on their rights as tenants. “Some tenants are afraid of taking legal action against landlords because they are not aware of their rights. “The law protects the relationship between landlords and tenants, it’s just that Nigerians are not aware of such laws and do not seek to enforce them. “That is one of the reasons some landlords take advantage of their tenants and maltreat them. I urge the media to sensitise Nigerians to the existence of such provisions and their rights to take up such cases. “The law is there to protect them,” he said.
Rising Debts: States
THE State Governments may request a bailout from the Federal Government after
Redeem Value Of The Naira - Economist A Port Harcourt based economist, Mr. Cletus Uba says the proposed change from polymer to paper currency notes is not the solution to the weak naira. Uba made the observation in an interview with newsmen in Port Harcourt recently, while speaking on the plan of the CBN to revert to paper notes. He said that what the CBN should be concerned with was the strengthening of the naira to compete favourably with international currencies. ‘’The purchasing power of the naira is too weak today, the Ghanaian cedi is higher than the naira; is it not a shame. “The CBN should do something about it. “Change of polymer to paper or paper to polymer is not in any way going to change the purchasing power of the naira,’’ the economist said, and he called on the central bank to introduce policies that would benefit the ordinary people and usher in economic boom. He said that the only remedy to bail the country out of the economic distress was to strengthen the naira. According to him, the naira should be rescued and the time to do it is now. The economist urged the
Customers at the Pantami Animal market in Gombe Metropolis in preparation for Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
central bank to invest the money meant to change the polymer notes in measures that would redeem the value of naira. Uba said that resuscitation of the naira would truly reposition the country as the giant of Africa. He said that what Nigeria needed now was the transformation of the naira into a stronger currency. The economist said that Nigeria should not allow its currency, which was once one of the strongest currencies in the world, to become a paper money. Uba, however, expressed confidence in the ability of the CBN leadership to restructure the naira.
Will Seek FG Bail
Out Deal - FAAC Commissioner
debts spirals out of control, the Chairman, Forum of Commissioners, Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), Mr. Timothy Odah, has said. Oduah made the disclosure when he address newsmen after the monthly FAAC meeting, which distributed two months revenue to the three tiers of government in Abuja, weekend. He said several states were indebted to contractors and the dwindling revenue from Nigeria’s oil and non-oil earnings had exacerbated the problems. “The year is almost ending, most states owe contractors and they are causing problems,’’ he said. Odah also called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to review its monetary policy that mandated states to deposit 50 per cent of public accounts with the apex bank. He criticised the new policy,
saying, “it is very demoralising and affecting the states so much. “The compulsory deposit of 50 per cent has heightened the coupon rates on facilities taken by the public offices or states especially. “We have interest rates going up to 20 per cent to 24 per cent and this is not good for the states. The policy is given us a very harsh experience. “Banks are not giving us facilities because of the Federal Government policy that requests bank to get clearance from the Federal Ministry of Finance before giving facilities to states,’’ he said. Odah, who is the Commissioner for Finance in Ebonyi, thanked the Federal Government for increased allocation to security in the wake of insurgency and terrorism in
of rain. But she said that with a piece of land close to a river, one could become a vegetable farmer during the dry season and meet the vegetable needs of many households. “With a little land close to the river, you will be able to assist; there are so many people including vegetarians who need vegetable for their daily consumption.’’ Ihechinyere, who is an undergraduate at Imo State
university, said that vegetables,being rich in vitamins, were essential commodities for all families. She said she started farming at the age of 13 when her parents were forced to go back to the village due to hardship. Ihechinyere, who is in her early 20s, said that from that age, she and her siblings learnt farming and she continued and today had become an employer of
the country. He said security allocation in some states had taken a large part of public funds and that had created problem for other sectors. “Security now takes 25 per cent of the budget in most states,’’ he said. On the crisis in FAAC over shortfall in allocation, Odah said though some of the issues had been resolved, but that “the problem is far from being over’’. He said allocation for the months of August and September were shared at the FAAC meeting to the three tiers of government. He said the moratorium on augmentation was reflected in the distribution as FAAC would, henceforth, share the actual and not budgeted revenue to the tiers of government. The forum chairman told newsmen that in the past four months, the FAAC
Dry Season Farming, Money- Making Business, Says Farmer
DRY season farming is a money-making business which youths in Nigeria can engage in and become selfreliant and employers of labour, a young female farmer has said. Miss. Vivian Ihechinyere who said this while speaking with newsmen in Warri, Delta, recently. Ihechinyere noted that vegetables such as water leaves, bitter leaves and pumpkin leaves were scarce in dry season due to the lack
labour. According to her, with proceeds from her dry season vegetable farming and cassava production, she is able to pay her school fees and take care of other needs comfortably, after paying salaries. Ihechinyere said that her farm, located in Edo State, was being maintained by her employees, adding that she planned to expand the farm during the coming dry season.
meeting had not received the forensic statement of accounts from the Post Mortem committee. “For the past four months, the postmortem committee of FAAC suspended its work because of the nationwide tour of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). “In view of that, we are not receiving the forensic statement of accounts from the post mortem committee. “At the same time we have asked the minister of finance to consider bringing in PPPRA into the forum of FAAC so that conflicting statements would be ironed out,’’ he said. Odah said the present revenue challenge of the country was a clarion call for all tiers of government to be less dependent on revenue from oil, but move toward economic diversification. The forum chairman advised states to focus more on the priority areas of their budget after the payment of salaries. The Federal, States and Local Governments shared N1.25 trillion from the Federation Account for August and September. A breakdown of the amount showed that the Federal Government received N236.15 billion, States N119.78 billion, while Local Governments got N92.34 billion for September. For August, the Federal Government received N248.27 billion, States N125.92 billion and Local Governments N97.08 billion.
Printed and published by Bendel Newspapers Company Limited, 24, Airport Road, P.M.B. 1334 Benin City. Telephone; Lagos: 01 4930929, Benin: 052 257492, 257531 Editor. EUBALDUS ENAHORO (08034742291). Lagos Office: 3/4, Amode Close, Kudirat Abiola Way, By Olushosun Bus-Stop, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos. Abuja Office: Floor 1, Edo House, 75 Ralph Shodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja.. Tel/Fax: 09-5237631. All correspondence to: 24 Airport Road, Benin City. E-mail: nigerianobserver@yahoo.com (ISSN 0331-2674)